Power Plate update

As you may already know I have been doing a month long trial of Power Plate sessions at Harrods. For those of you (like me) who don't tend to spend all that much time shopping in Harrods, you can find the studio on the fifth floor, where all the sports equipment is sold. Tucked away behind a coffee shop is the Power Plate studio.


The studio has four plates and two changing cubicles. There are no showers or other facilities, as you don't need them. Because there are only four plates, it means that there is only ever a maximum of four people in a session. Small classes are great for things like Power Plate as the exercises are simple but they need to be performed correctly to get the full benefit - as I have been told by the trainers - 'It's very easy to do some of these moves wrong, meaning it wont pull, stretch or hurt at the time, but it also means you don't get any benefit.'


The trainers at the studio are really good at helping you to perfect your technique to each move - making sure you are doing them right so you get the best results. Small differences, like making sure you pull your bum in when doing push-ups (rather than sticking your bum in the air) mean that you work your abs more rather than just putting strain on your back and arms. These are the sorts of tips that apply regardless where you are doing the move - on the plate, or in the comfort of your own home. So I have found it really useful.



Now, I am no gym expert or personal trainer - so of course do not take these descriptions as a how-to. But I thought I would do run down on my personal favorites from the past month. Check the collage (may need to maximise to see them properly) for pictures. All of which can be done without a power plate by the way.

Move 1: Tricep Dips

Simple move to help banish the bingo wings. With arms being my major problem area this is definitely my favorite move. Basically you hold yourself over the edge of the plate (or a chair/bed/sofa), then gradually lower and raise your arms, so your body weight offers resistance.

Move 2: Plank with knee crunches (not the technical term)

Another straight forward move which can be very easy if not done properly. Holding your weight on your arms in a push-up type position you then bring alternate knees to your chest. This is one move where the small change of not sticking your bum out means you work your abs loads more.

Move 3: Push up

Another simple move, hold your bum in means work for the tummy and the arms. Another fantastic one for the bingo wings if you move the hands closer together makes this work the backs of the arms. Definitely a trick I will be taking with me beyond the end of the course.

Move 4: Stomach twist with a medicine ball (another non-technical term)

One for the tummy, sitting on the plate you lean back and lift the legs slightly - to use your abs to hold the position. This one is taken up a notch by the addition of a medicine ball which you can either hold and twist to touch at either side - keeping your eyes on the ball to make sure you work the waist rather than just moving your arms.

SO there we have it, my four favorite moves to far. I also really like doing the stretches and lunges (I just wrote lunches instead - Freudian slip maybe?) but these are the slightly more satisfying.

Of course, do remember I am no expert so check with a professional before trying any of this at home (or at a gym).

I have another couple of weeks to go now before I finish the trial. I will then make sure I do a body test again (I did this before my first session) and will share the results to let you all judge for yourselves the results.

Also, do let me know what you think about these body/exercise related posts. I know they are a bit of a diversion from make-up, but I personally still consider it all part of beauty - but would love to hear what you think??


**The Small Print**

The trial period was provided free of charge. All opinions are honest and my own - I have not been paid nor am I associated with Power Plate.

Urban Decay Primer Potion 'Sin': Review

Urban Decay Primer Potion - or UDPP as it's also known in our beauty obsessive circle - is one of the cult-classic, must-have products of the beauty world. So it may be a bit shocking to know that when I bough 'sin', the latest edition to the UDPP family, last week - it was the first time for me.

Having tried it now for almost a week I can honestly say I don't know how I ever managed to wear eyeshadow without it. It magically manages keeps all eye shadow frozen in place all day long.

I gave UPDD the ultimate test this weekend, as I was at a family wedding. So it had to hold some pretty heavy shadow in place all day long and it totally managed. Even withstanding some pretty intense Scottish dancing and the odd teary moment.

This has managed to become an absolute must have for me and I will NEVER wear shadow without it again. Not even a sweep of a pale neutral, in fact at my laziest I will probably just use this on it's own - as the 'sin' shade is a pretty beige-pink with shimmer and makes a lovely base.

This is currently in the running for my favorite purchase of 2010. If you don't have it yet then I think you should definitely put it on your list.

Apologies for the lack of individual pictures by the way, camera is playing up.


**The Small Print**

I bought this myself. All reviews are honest and impartial.

Rush salon Earls Court Road: Review

Last Friday I did one of my favorite things, went to get my hair done. This time I was invited to go back to salon change Rush, who have recently opened their 50th salon on Earls Court Road. Before Christmas I went to visit the salon at King's Cross, which was a very enjoyable experience so I was more than happy to be able to go back.


This time around I was getting half a head of highlights plus a cut and blow dry. Below are some ever-so-professional i-phone/mirror pictures, before and after (the after is part way through the blow dry part...) Gives a bit of an idea of the slight change in shade from golden to slightly cooler. On the 'after' side, there is a bottle of the Shu Umuera treatment oil that was used during the session, I am really keen to get my hands on this and have a play myself - I was impressed with how soft and lovely my hair felt and think this could do it some good.


The salon experience was really good, in fact I would actually say the Earls Court Road salon was more impressive than the King's Cross one. This is about 95% based on the fact that this new salon had made the sink/hair washing area into a far more pampering, luxurious experience with the added benefit of Shu Umuera treatments being available.

My overall impression of this salon is that it had a bit more of a luxury factor than the average Rush salon. I think that Rush salons are really lovely, but I would say that they are very functional salons. But with the new addition of the Shu Umuera pampering element (not just at this Rush salon, also at others) it takes them a bit further to the point where I would chose to go to Rush salons for both the 'chore' (not that it's ever a chore, but I can't think of a better word) of getting hair done, and for something a bit extra luxurious. The head massage/hair wash and treatment was undoubtedly the highlight.

My hairdresser, Glebe was great - sat and listened whilst I explained and showed him pictures of the style and colour I wanted and talked through which elements would and wouldn't work. I discussed the fact that I was interested in looking into getting a loose perm to get 'natural' beachy waves - he has completely talked me out of this, as I already have bleach in my hair for the highlights he said it would simply cause too much damage that it wouldn't be worth it. Plus he also explained how the perming treatment really doesn't just make hair naturally wavy - it takes a lot of maintenance and styling to achieve the look I wish I had naturally. So for now I am sticking with what I have (plus a few highlights).

I really appreciate it when a hairdresser manages to both listen, do as you ask yet also offer advice where appropriate. I also really appreciate it when hairdressers let you just sit there and chill out and recognise that small talk isn't everyone's cup of tea - it's nice to be allowed to just read a magazine or relax rather than talk about where you are going on holiday this year...might just be me.

The colour I went for was a bit of a cooler shade than I normally choose, a paler ash blonde. I really like the colour, it feels brighter and more appropriate for spring. Although I was a little worried when I was looking in the mirror on the tube that some of it looked so pale blonde that it almost crossed into 'gray' territory. But I have been assured it was just bad lighting and it doesn't really look like that... phew!

So overall, a very pleasant pampering experience and I would go back. If you are thinking of going along then make sure you check out the Rush website, they always have fantastic deals on and at the moment they are offering 50% off your first visit - just click HERE and follow the instructions.

**The Small Print**

I was invited to visit the Rush salon free of charge for review purposes. All reviews are honest and impartial, regardless of source.

What do you buy with you Boots No7/Ruby & Millie £5 vouchers...?

After seeing THIS post from Lipglossiping about how you spend your £5 'till spits' from Boots I thought I would share what I spent mine on (since I used them yesterday)...


I had three vouchers, so yes I was that pain in the bum who wanted to split my purchases to make sure I could use each voucher.

1. No7 Cleanse & Care Eye Make-Up Remover

This is my absolute must have from No7, I have yet to find an eye make-up remover that I prefer to this - this is probably about the 5th bottle I have purchased. Priced £7.50, getting it for £2.50 is a bargain.

2. No7 Eyeshadow Blend and Contour Brush

I already have a couple of brushes from No7 and really like them. I don't have any mac brushes to compare them to, but so far I have found them to be good quality with minimal shedding, I think for the price they are excellent value - so thought I would try out a couple more.

3. No7 Eye Colour Brush

You can never have too many eyeshadow brushes (actually, I think my boyfriend disagrees with this) so went for another of these. I currently use the elf c-shaped shadow brush for eye colour so interested to see how these compare.

Both of the brushes cost £6.50 full price, so at £1.50 each I definitely can't complain.

I did have a look at the Ruby & Millie stand, but as usual nothing caught my attention - this wasn't helped by the fact the stand was in a bit of a state. I have said it many times before, but retailers need to keep an eye on the state of their make-up counters, there is nothing that makes me walk away quicker than a cluttered, poorly stocked and grubby make-up stand.

Having never really been attracted to anything from Ruby & Millie I don't know a lot about the brand - let me know if there is something I am missing, or generally what your views are of Ruby & Millie? I'd love to hear more. Oh, and tell me what you spend your £5 vouchers on!

Don't forget!

Don't forget that my thank you giveaway ends THIS THURSDAY (the 25/03/10)... if you haven't entered yet, then please click HERE to find out the rules and get involved!

Barry M Lip Lacquer Crayon: Review

I'm a big kid at heart, so when I was recently sent a couple of the Barry M Lip Lacquer Crayons I was pretty excited when I saw that they look just like crayola crayons. Yay! I get to colour in my lips - but as with real crayons, I have never been too good at staying in the lines!

Anyway, I was sent shade number 1 (a vibrant red) and shade number 5 (a cool baby pink) and since I am a bit of a chicken when it comes to bright colours, it was shade 5 that drew me in first and is the one I have worn the most.


Both of the Barry M Lip Lacquers I tried are impressively pigmented, creamy and don't feel at all dry or heavy on the lips. Since I have never been good at wearing lipstick I found these were lovely, they fall into the middle ground between lip gloss and lipstick - heavier and more pigmented than a normal gloss, but more sheer and moisturising than a lipstick.

Only slight downside to the pale pink shade, which is my personal favorite, is that it does have a shimmer that sticks to the lips after the colour has worn off. As long as you touch up then this isn't a problem, but if you are a bit rubbish at touching up (like me) then it might be something you want to consider.

If you like vibrant colours then I really think you should try out the vibrant red shade no 1 - it's a gorgeous pure red, so pretty - I'm just trying to get the guts up to rock the red.


**The Small Print**

These products were sent free of charge for review purposes. All reviews are honest and impartial, regardless of source.

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Beauty Blog Link Love: Saturday 20th March

~ Over at theNotice, Rae shares an amazingly pigmented bright blue eye — done with shadows from the drugstore!

~ This week, Louise gets an (almost!) exclusive look at a Lancome mascara that has them queuing down the aisles in Harrods, and promises better lashes in a month.

~ Yinnie Dances with the fairies with her fairy inspired EOTD.

~ Phyrra dishes with Britton from Haus of Gloi for this month’s Indie Spotlight at Fresco Phyrra.

~ Blaq Vixen Beauty decides to treat her skin to a Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Regimen!

~ Retrodiva checks out three new innovative drugstore foundations. See which ones she would recommend!

~ Krasey Beauty takes a trip across the pond to bring you complete swatches and a review of MAC’s newest, Give Me Liberty of London.

~ Looking for a great cream eyeliner that won’t break the bank? Lipglossiping may have just the thing…

~ Sophie from melovemakeup talks about how much she loves Trilogy’s Everything Balm.

~ TheLipPrint adds a little more Allure to her life with Chanel.

~ Michelle at Lipstick Rules laments her Liberty of London lipstick purchases… but then finds a way to make it work!

~ Check out the swatches of Yummy Mummy by butter LONDON at Makeup4All.

~ Lisamarie from Beauty Crazed falls in love with the 10 year anniverary editions of Lancôme Juicy Tubes!

~ Follow Jellyminx’s step-by-step tutorial for a pinky-coral look for Spring.

~ Over at Music and Make Up, Jo celebrates her birthday with a purple smokey eye courtesy of MAC’s Violet Pigment.

***

~ Beautywoome has a giveaway with Europe’s coolest new beauty brand. Win 1 of 10 Ellis Faas Ellis Red lipsticks.

~ Audrey Dao is giving away $89 worth of Napolean Perdis makeup as part of her 1 year blog anniversary.

~ Mz More at The Glamorous Gleam is having a giveaway in honor of her 200+ Followers. Check out the goodies galore!

~ Cindy from Prime Beauty gives you the Golden Ticket to win a Bliss “Best of Bliss Set”.

That's it for this week's Link Love - enjoy!

The Vitality Show 2010

I'm just back from The Vitality Show 2010 and thought I would blog about it straight away on the off chance anyone reading is wondering about the show and considering going along - since it's on till Sunday.

Basically the show is a huge room filled with lots of stalls around the general theme of health and/or beauty - both physical, spiritual and emotional health. On these stalls you will find a variety of things from people selling you their wares to free samples to general information and advice.

The hall is split into sections, including health, beauty, fitness and yoga, healthy eating and one life live. In amongst the sections there are also various presentation areas where there will be everything from cookery demonstrations to Strictly Come Dancing exercise classes.

All in all, it can be a little overwhelming and there is a lot you can probably skip, but there is also a huge amount that is well worth seeing and lots of bargains to be had (including 15% off Benefit make-up plus a free gift if you buy 3 things, or a free lip gloss set from Bourjois when you spend £12)

It might sound a bit odd, but the food section was one of my favorites. Lots of nibbles to sample - including some extremely tasty sausages. In fact, this was where I spent the most - I bought four packs of six sausages.... seriously, they were THAT yummy (I haven't eaten them all). Obviously, most of the food was really health-focus, but trust me I managed to home-in on the cupcake stall.... I can't resist a cupcake.

I came home with a number of (heavy) bags - I bought myself copies of Zest and Top Sante - both of which came with a bag of freebie bits (including glamorous things like tampons, sachets of moisturiser and bottles of water etc...). I also picked up a couple of books from Women's Fitness (Guide to Weight Loss and Guide to Body Tone) as I'm on a bit of a health/fitness kick at the moment, with a holiday looming and being half way through a Power Plate course that I am loving, has all really given me the motivation to get my bum off the sofa.

So all in all, a lovely evening. Made all the more pleasant for bumping into Louise from Get Lippie and catching up with the lovely PR girls from Bourjois - who I have to thank for sending me the tickets - thanks girls!

The Vitality Show is on at Earls Court till Sunday. For more info go to www.thevitalityshow.co.uk

My dream hair...

Just putting it out there... in my dreams my hair would look a little something like one of the gorgeous ladies below (or a spectacular composition of the them all).



Luckily, I am getting my hair done very soon - so if I'm really lucky I might get a small step closer to having a head of hair something like these. Although I'm struggling to decide about going down the fringe route or not.

So who has your dream hair???

Jelly Pong Pong Fluffy Cheek Stain: review

Another review of a Jelly Pong Pong product that I was sent recently. This time it's the rather adorable Jelly Pong Pong Cheek Puff in 'fluffy'. Like the eye shadow duo the packaging is very cute - with the vintage beach hut style stripes, inside the outer packaging there is a sturdy pot with over 10g of creamy cheek stain.

The colour is so pretty, a rosy shade with just a hint of softening coral makes for an ultra flattering colour. I haven't used many cream based cheek colours before - I find them intimidating - but this one was impressively easy to use. In the pictures above, the swatch shows the colour applied heavily and un-blended (right swatch) and then blended out (slightly harder to spot, on the left of the arm picture). The colour blends really easily and creates a really natural looking flush.

It can also be built up if you want a more dramatic colour or if you are more tanned and need a more intense shade to show through.

The staying power of this cheek stain was really impressive too - it lasts a whole work day with no problem. I think that the flattering colour would also work well as a lip colour, but it's not something I have tried at the moment (lip colours don't really work well when you have ridiculously chapped lips).

I think this colour would look gorgeous on tanned cheeks with a shimmery bronzer as a highlight.

What do you think? Like the look of this colour? What do you think about cream blushers?

Another important question - what do you think of the collage of pictures????



**The Small Print**

This product was sent free of charge for review purposes. All reviews are honest and impartial.

The return of the perm...

If you are anything like me, then when you hear the word perm you immediately think.... eek, poodle curls. I also think about that scene in Legally Blonde where Elle convicts the daughter of murder due to the fact she claimed to be in the shower after having a perm where she says:

"Isn't it the first cardinal rule of perm maintenance that you are forbidden to wet your hair for at least 24 hours after getting a perm at the risk of deactivating the ammonium thioglycolate?"

Anyway, so I have been hearing that 'the perm' is back in fashion.... no, not the corkscrew curl one but more the Hollywood curls or the Sienna-Miller-esque loose waves. I am really interested to hear from anyone who has had a perm, either now or in the past as to what your experience was like (good or bad)... especially anyone who has had the Schwarzkopf Professional Natural Styling Hydrowave that apparently can create all sorts of waves/curls/root volume without making hair crispy or frizzy.

I am basically asking because I would LOVE to have the sort of natural 'boho' type of wave in my very straight, very blah, hair and have been musing as to whether this might be an option (salt sprays and curling tongs just don't really do it for me). Obviously this sort of treatment will cause damage, but as someone who already highlights my hair then I am no stranger to this... I just want to know, is it worth it?

So what are the views? Have your or a friend ever had a perm - horror stories or happy endings all welcome! Please comment below!

Currently loving: the natural look

It has been a while since I have been brave enough to face the world without at least a thin veil of foundation to hide my skin, but recently I have really embraced the natural look.

No, I don't mean 'natural-looking' foundation, I mean no foundation. Just a bit of concealer where needed and a dusting of my MAC MSF natural powder. I am really liking this for a number of reasons:

1. It is fast. No faffing around with sponges and blending in the morning. Sometimes life is too short.

2. It doesn't slip of the face and need re-doing by lunchtime. All I need to do is re-dust with the MSF. Simples.

3. It can actually look better than a full face of slap. I have been having issues with foundation making my skin texture look dodgy (still on the hunt for my perfect one) but using just what I need has pretty much solved this.

I am most certainly not saying that I am done with foundation, I love it for it's skin-perfecting abilities. But sometimes it is nice to go foundation free.

Bit of a round up of the products that have been helping me avoid the slap, but not feel like a gargoyle...

Garnier tinted eye roll on*

Love this. Not only does it do a great job of covering the dark circles but it feels lovely and cool to apply. Would happily buy it again. I bought the original caffeine version when it came out and thought it was a bit pointless -although refreshing - but this one is lovely and the tint really makes a difference.

Bourjois healthy mix concealer*

This was one of the products I picked up at the Bourjois blogger event and mentioned in my recent Bourjois favorites post. I really like it - the texture is thick, but creamy so easy to blend and I find it lasts really well. I know from speaking to other beauty bloggers that the opinions on this are mixed, but personally I really like it and initially preferred it to the foundation (although now I like them both).

MAC MSF natural powder

My ideal powder. Keeps me matte, but without looking chalky. My only complaint/request with this one is that I wish MAC would bring out a mirrored compact version so it was easier to touch up over the day. I currently use the light shade but thinking of getting it in medium for summer.

Other products used (I'm becoming obsessed with Bourjois I think...):

Eyes:
Bourjois Volume Ultra Care Mascara for sensitive eyes*
MAC Phloof! e/s (all over)

Face:
Bourjois Little Round Pot Blush in 16 Rose Coup De Foudre*
Bourjois Delice de Poudre Bronzing Powder

Lips:
Korres Lip Butter in Guava

Here is a mug shot (FOTD) with the natural look:

**The Small Print**

All products except those marked with a * were bought by myself.

My guest blogger with dark eyebrows is...

Number 13 (lucky for some) is Katie from http://mesluxes.blogspot.com/ - Katie, I will email you direct to arrange.

Thank you to all who entered - had a fab response and will definitely do the same thing in future if I have products that don't work for me.

Thanks all.

beautyjunkielondon x

Biotherm Aquasource Skin Perfection: love in a tub

Every now and then you com across a product that you just fall for. This recently happened to me with a moisturiser from the brand Biothem called Aquasource Skin Perfection.

Biotherm Aquasource Skin Perfection

It's not often that I would say that I have fallen in love with a moisturiser - an eyeshadow maybe, a mascara, definitely - but rarely a moisturiser. There is something about the texture of this moisturiser that is really unique and unusual - described as a 'hydrating sorbet', it is almost matte/velvetty feeling. The cream is light as air and so refreshing - the smell reminds me of after sun. I think the overall fresh feeling this cream delivers is a huge part of it's appeal.

Biotherm Aquasource Skin Perfection:
my attemt to campture the texture

Biotherm Aquasource Skin Perfection:
another attempt to capture the texture - it's not glossy like most moisturisers

I have tried quite a few 'aqua' based moisturisers and generally really like them - they feel very moisturising but also really lovely and light.

Biotherm Aquasource Skin Perfection:
Applied to skin quite thick to see how it applies, absorbs quickly
and leaves skin soft but not shiny or greasy.

This one feels unique for the velvetty texture that I mentioned - when applied this moisturiser manages to leave my skin totally quenched but also matte and not remotely greasy. I have found that since using it for the past couple of weeks my skin feels moisturised and my t-zone doesn't seem to feel as greasy as the day progresses.

I love this moisturiser and definitely plan to repurchase.

Biotherm Aquasource costs £29.50 from boots.com so not a cheapy, but a good moisturiser is really worth forking out for.


**The Small Print**

This product was sent free of charge for review purposes. All reviews are honest and impartial regardless of source.

I'm looking for a guest blogger... with dark eyebrows

Hello all.

I tweeted the other day that I was looking for a guest blogger who has dark eyebrows... I have been sent the product below from Clinique in the shade 03 Dark Brown but sadly I have very pale brows so can't give it a fair test.

Clinique instant lift for brows

So I thought I would put it out to the blogosphere - if you have dark brows and would be happy to write a guest blog post for me, reviewing this then please comment below (include how I can contact you) and I will pick a name out of the hat after 12pm Monday.

Thank you!

Something for the weekend... My Face Blingtones

I was sent a few bits from the My Face range before Christmas, including a selection of the Blingtones eye shadows.

The first thing to say about these shadows is that they are VERY pretty to look at - gorgeous colours that shimmer. They are are packed with glitter, and perfect for anyone looking for a total D-I-S-C-O type of look.Personally, taking the step from oohing and aahing at the prettiness to actually wearing them is quite a leap. This is probably why it has taken me a while to get round to reviewing these, I have been happy to look at them and bask in the sparkle, but when it came to actually using them on my face I went on the safe side and always stuck to my favoured neutrals. Colours this bright and sparkly are intimidating if you aren't used to colour!


Through the wonderful world of blogging I know there are loads of gorgeous girls out there who are a lot braver than me when it comes to colour and I really envy the stunning looks they create with brights and aim to build myself up to adding more colour into my make-up life. I am getting there - I have been wearing bright turquoise liner... but it's a slow process!Anyway, enough waffle about me - back to the blingtones. The three colours (left to right) are: morococo (their spelling, not mine), Caribbean queen, and crystalline green. And yes, they are BLING-TASTIC.

Blingtones (no flash)

Blingtones (with flash)

Blingtones swatches (no flash)

bottom to top-morococo, caribbean queen, crystalline green.

So what do I think....

Well, as I said these are very bling-tastic and to be honest, as pretty as they are, they aren't my sort of thing. I would love to wear them, but glitter just doesn't make it's way into my life very often. These are extremely glittery shadows (as you would expect from the name), and as happens with pretty much any glitter shadow, there is a pretty significant amount of fall out - both when you apply them, and under the eye area as you wear them.

The pigmentation isn't bad, but with the amount of glitter in each it can be a little hard for the colour to show through as vibrant as it does in the pan. They do look more impressive in the pan than they do on skin.

I do however really like the packaging of these shadows, although not overly exciting but the clear plastic is solid and feels fairly expensive (and is a little Shu Umeura-esque) I feel like the packaging would be really sturdy and survive being toted around in a make-up bag.


So overall, these are nice shadows but not for me. If you are more of a colour/glitter person then what do you think? Have you tried anything from the My Face range?

For more info: http://www.myfacecosmetics.co.uk



**The Small Print**

These shadows were sent free of charge. All reviews are honest and impartial regardless of source

Jelly Pong Pong Dynamic Duo: Sugarcoated

I was recently approach by the PR for Jelly Pong Pong to see if I wanted to try out some bits from the brand, I picked out three that really caught my attention and here is a review of the first: Dynamic Duo Eye Shadow in 'Sugarcoated'.

Firstly, the packaging is adorable - cute pink striped on a cardboard outer casing, which flips open to reveal two (quite large, so good VFM) complementary shades of eyeshadow and a small mirror for on-the-go application. Very cute, slightly retro (like an old-school beach hut) but may have the same problem as Benefit powders in that cardboard packaging isn't that sturdy over time.

Dynamic Duo: The Packaging

Dynamic Duo: The shadows (with flash)

The two colours in 'Sugarcoated' are a pale grey-blue and a darker royal/navy blue (described on the website as blue-lilac and navy), both with a bit of a shimmer. These work perfectly together and can create a really nice smokey eye that still looks neutral/not scary - but a little bit different to the usual browns or greys.

Dynamic Duo: The shadows close up (no flash)

Both eye shadows are smooth and well pigmented. They blend easily either with fingers or a brush (I tried both) although I found them easier to work with when using my fingers as there was less fall out.

The pictures with swatches both show a couple of 'swipes' built up to make it easier for the camera to pick up. I think the dark blue is really wearable, despite being the darker/more vibrant colour of the two - this colour somehow manages to find a balance between being bright and understated at the same time. The pale gray-blue does look almost like a dull silver in some lights, and I don't really see the lilac in it, but it is pretty none the less.

The Dynamic Duo: Swatches (no flash)

Dynamic Duo: The shadows swatched close up (no flash)

I think this pair are potentially good transitional colours for anyone like me who likes brights, but feels safer in neutrals.

So what do you think of Jelly Pong Pong? Have to say, I love the quirky name. I have a couple more reviews lined up from this brand over the next couple of weeks, so keep an eye out.

Dynamic Duo in Sugarcoated is available from www.jellypongpong.com for £15 (other colours are available)

**The Small Print**

This product was sent free of charge for review purposes. All reviews are honest and impartial and I am not affiliated or being paid for this review.

Give away time: a little thank you...

As a big thank you to everyone who takes the time to read, comment and subscribe to/follow this blog and as a (slightly belated) celebration of reaching 300 subscribers I wanted to do a bit of a blog give away.

Prizes are below, all of which are bought by me - other than the Batiste for brunettes, I was given this at an event, but as a blonde can't use it - so thought I would throw it in too. If a non-brunette wins, then I will replace this with a normal batiste.

1. Batiste coloured dry shampoo (brunette)

2. Benefit 'That Gal' primer

(I reviewed the primer HERE, but this is of course a brand new un-opened one!)

3. Mini Anna Sui 'Sui Dreams' perfume

4. Marc by Marc Jacobs lipstick pen

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs key ring

6. Marc by Marc Jacobs heart compact mirror

7. China Glaze nail varnish in 'Lasso my heart'

8. Dove Go Fresh Body Wash (travel size)

9. Natural Collection Strawberry and Cream body lotion

10. Soap and Glory Hand Food (travel size)

So those are the prizes, how do you enter?




THE RULES:

1.The give-away is open internationally


2. You must be a subscriber/follower - this is because it is a thank you to my subscribers/followers (so makes sense you need to subscribe/follow...) anyone who enters without being a subscriber/follower will be removed from the draw.


3. Just add a comment below with 'enter me' AND tell me what your all-time favorite beauty product is!


4. The give-away will end on 25th March 2010 at midnight (GMT)

5. The winner will be chosen using random.org

Power Plate and Weightwatcher update

Quick update on my whole shape up plan is going...

Weightwatchers

I know it hasn't been that long, but I am already falling off the wagon with this one. I seem to have fallen back into the habit of eating what I want and not being too hot on the points counting... not good. I have made a permanent switch from normal to Diet Coke and from semi-skimmed to skimmed milk. But other than that I'm not doing very well.

Any ideas what I can do to rectify this? Personally, to me this comes down to convenience - I really wish weightwatchers had an iphone app to log and monitor what I am eating, it's just not convenient to have to constantly log in and update things. If I could do it on the go it would be so much easier.

Power Plate

I have now done a total of three session and think I may be hooked. I love them, quick and easy and not as sweaty as the gym, but leave me feeling just as refreshed? All I need to see now are some decent results (all down to a computer, not going to rely on my opinion for this).

The session I had on Saturday was definitely the most hardcore I have done so far. I could tell at the time that I was going to be in pain and I was right. The next day my thighs and stomach muscles were all very sore - it hurt to laugh- but on the plus side, it means that I have some muscles... as they say: no pain, no gain - I'm going to take this as a good sign.

I'm off to session 4 tonight....

Bourjois favorites

In case you missed the event post, back at the beginning of February, I was one of the lucky bloggers invited to go along to Bourjois HQ to find out about the Spring launches and other products from the brand to test out in our own time. So now, after a good few weeks of playing with the bits I pocked out I wanted to do a round up review of the ones I really love.

My Bourjois Favorites

Just a note, one of these products isn't one that I picked out on the day, but one that I actually already had - but since the event drew my attention back to Bourjois I found myself taking another look at it again.

My Bourjois Favorites with the bronzer and the blush opened up:

1. Bourjois Volume Glamour Ultra Care Mascara for sensitive eyes



For some reason when I first looked at this I almost dismissed it, unfairly assuming that a sensitive mascara would be unable to deliver both drama and be kind to eyes.



Having now tried it out (and used constantly for the past month) I have been proven well and truly wrong. This mascara delivers drama, lasts all day, doesn't flake and leaves lashes feeling soft.



As pretty much the ultimate recommendation, this is the mascara I told my mum to try when she was looking for a new one this week and asked for my suggestions. My mum wears contacts - so as being a sensitive formula, it is ideal. She had recently bought the Max Factor Lash Extension but found this didn't deliver enough depth for her and she wasn't keen on the wand - so I'm hoping this one will be a better match.



2. Bourjois Little Round Pot Blush in 16 Rose Coup De Foudre



This is one of the new colours for Spring - I love the colour. It's a warm rosy peach, with a distinct shimmer that when applied looks like a healthy gorgeous glow. This is the colour I wore in my first full face picture on the blog recently and got a few comments on it. The pigmentation is good, but not too intense - so you can build it easily to develop the colour you want.



This blush is gorgeous and has made it all the way into my handbag make-up bag - I need it with me at all times!



3. Bourjois Delice de Poudre Bronzing Powder



This is the product I already had in my collection after nabbing it for a bargain price on one of Cosmetic Candy's blog sales. Since the weather is gradually starting to ease itself more towards Spring I have felt the need to add a bit of bronzer into the routine so I reached for this one. This little bronzer compact looks a little like a block of chocolate - it isn't totally matte, but the shimmer is subtle enough that I don't look like a disco ball in the daytime. It is far less shimmery than the majority of blushers I own.



4. Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation in No52 Vanilla



I think this is an all round gorgeous foundation - feels light weight, but delivers good medium coverage. I would call the finish a satin, as it's not truly matte, but not shiny either - oh, and it smells lovely. I have been wearing this combined with the Bourjois 10 Hour Sleep Effect foundation when I want a healthy natural glow.



Only slight complaint is that this one does need to be touched up by early afternoon, rather than lasting the full 16hr it claims to. But setting this with MAC Blot Powder helps it's staying power.



5. Bourjois 10 Hour Sleep Effect Foundation in No71 Abricote Claire



This is a gorgeous foundation if you want something super light-weight and glowy. I wouldn't suggest this for anyone with oily skin, as it will slip off. But if you have dry skin then I think you will really love this one - I have dry skin and this is just lovely. I have been using this combined with the Healthy Mix because I am a bit in between shades - this is one I would definitely love to get in a darker shade for summer.



This foundation was a life saver this week when I had a few VERY late nights at work, with days following feeling like a zombie but luckily my foundation didn't give it away.



6. Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer in No52



This concealer has really impressed me. Really creamy and delivers medium to heavy coverage, perfect for hiding spots of imperfections. In my opinion it isn't the best for under eye circles - i prefer something a little more illuminating. But this is perfect for touching up general skin imperfections. This is another one that has made it into the prestigious place of my daily make-up bag, along with my No7 Concealer Brush to apply it with.


**The Small Print**

All of the products in this review, other than the bronzing powder were all given free of charge for consideration for review. I am not affiliated with Bourjois and have not been paid for this review. All opinions are honest and impartial regardless of source.

Mascara review: Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells

I love mascara. No seriously, I really do. I'm sure I say all this every time I review a mascara but it really is my number one make-up item and the one thing I would refuse to leave the house without it. So anytime there is a new one on the market, or if I am lucky enough to be asked if I want to try a new one then I jump at the opportunity.


So when I was asked if I wanted to try the new Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells mascara, I was very very excited as the original Lancome Hypnose is considered to be the 'holy grail' of mascara for many.


Personally, my relationship with the Lancome brand goes back to when I was a teen - I had a pretty ridiculous obsession with their Juicy Tubes and absolutely loved O de Lancome and worked my way through many bottles. It's one of those ones that I haven't used for years, but just a sniff and I regress by around a decade.

The Packaging- typical Lancome luxury:

Anyway, back to the new mascara. Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells is the latest lash revolution from the french brand (part of the L'Oreal family) promising magnified volume in a formula that regenerates lash condition. In other words - what makes it special is the fact that it contains a special ingredient that is meant to promote lash growth and prevent older lashes from shedding - in theory contributing to thicker more fluttery lashes.



I'm not going to comment at this stage about the long term results of this, as I have been only using it for three days - so have no idea if this does thicken or promote longer lashes. But I am going to give it a review just as a mascara- and will report back when I have given it a couple of months and see what happens.

Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells: The Wand

I like the wand for this one, it has the flexible bristles of the more traditional brush wands, but grouped in a way that they create the definition that the more modern comb wands deliver. If I had a choice I would normally prefer the brush style wands - but that's just my preference.



The formula for this is smooth and easy to build multiple coats without clumping. I was sent the brown shade to test - normally I would chose black - but brown is actually quite a refreshing choice. As a blonde, I have quite pale lashes so even the brown adds colour and definition that I lack naturally. Plus, as this mascara delivers nicely dramatic lashes so the dark brown colour adds a nice natural touch.



So onto the piccies, so you can judge for yourself what you think.

Before - my poor, sad lashes totally bare:

(please don't judge the constantly messy brows - have a threading appointment this week!)

After 2/3 coats - no eye shadow/liner:

I like it a lot, but I'm not totally blown away yet - but going to give it a chance in the long term to see if I end up with long fluttery lashes.

I like how the wand is easy to use - delivering coat after coat without clumping or poking me in the eye (not as stupid as it sounds, it's easy to do with some wands).

I love the length and definition and think this is a great Sunday mascara - I tend to go for the minimal make-up look on a Sunday, so this is ideal. I can't help but wonder how much a difference the colour makes, but it is nice to have a mascara for different situations and one that balances between natural and dramatic is refreshing.

So what do you think of this one? What's your all time favorite mascara? Suggestions for ones I must try are always welcome.

Lancome Hyponse Precious Cells launches at the end of March at Harrods and nationally in May, priced £22.

**The Small Print**

This product was sent free of charge for review purposes. I am not affiliated with Lancome nor have I been paid for this post. All reviews are honest and impartial.

Beauty Blog Link Love 06/03/10

Over at theNotice, Rae talks about the "LOL Scarf" (aka the MAC Liberty of London scarf,) and wonders why the heck anyone would spend $115 on it!

Head over to Beautifully Glossy to read what GlossQueen has to say about Diorshow's Iconic Mascara.

Curious to see how the Purple Lab Silk Sheets Luxe Foundation measures up? Blaq Vixen Beauty has the scoop!

Arianne of Glitter Geek is still in a makeup rut, so she tries to fight back with smoky blue eyeshadows!

Krasey Beauty gets acquainted with the new Chanel Rouge Coco lipsticks, and promptly falls in love.

Hot Beauty Health shares hot hair color trends to wear in 2010.

Jeweled Thumb asks the age old question: "Would you like some lip gloss with those oysters?" Wait, what?

Jellyminx Thinks is featured on Makeup.com, thanks to the lovely people at Lancome.

Lights...Camera...Action! Mz. More at The Glamorous Gleam gets ready for her close up as she reviews the new HD foundation from Revlon.

Vex in the City unveils swatches in all their pastel glory from Revlon Spring 2010.

Christelle at Beauty Crazed uses Mary Kay to shut down her shine!

Beauty Woo Me wants you to stop making that Duckface!

Ever wanted to know the differences between the Beauty Blender and it's dupes? Hell Candy Make Up did! Read her reviews here.

On her hunt for the perfect scent, TheLipPrint discovers an indie gem - Sonoma Scent Studio's Opal and Vintage Rose.

Coral is the hottest colour for Spring and Summer. Discover the perfect coral lipstick in Over by Illamasqua with Makeup4All!

***

Help Audrey Dao celebrate her 1 year blog anniversary with giveaways all month long!

Prime Beauty asks "What's your favorite eyeliner?" and gives away a Stila Mini Smudge Pot Collection.

Another addition to the MAC palette...

A couple of weeks ago I acquired (the rather lovely boyfriend bought it for me) another addition to my slowly growing MAC 15-pan pro palette. This time it was Phloof! I ADORE this colour and it has pretty much been the only colour I have been wearing ever since. I chose this colour because it is so versatile - it looks great alone, as a highlight or alongside other colours.

The lovely Phloof!

This is one of those colours that can easily be overlooked when looked at alongside all the other rainbow shades of a MAC counter - but it really is beautiful. Like many MAC shades, it isn't just one colour - in different lights and angles it looks different. In the pan, it looks just pale white/beige, swatched the pale pink shimmers show through.

I think it is really brightening and I have been using it all over the lid - all the way to the brow - I think it makes me look a bit more awake than I actually feel.

Phloof! alongside the other palette colours (Vex and Sable)

Phloof! swatched - looks warmer on the skin than in the pan

Gorgeous colour - great highlight. I think I have a new favorite.

Next on the list are Shale and Deep Truth I think - what do you think of these colours? Any other good colours for blue eyes?

Make your own nail colour competition with Illamasqua

I'm not one to just regurgitate a press release, but this one caught my attention.... if you love nails, being creative and Illamasqua then please read on...

2010’s hottest new nail colour is in your hands!

Whether it’s the standout shade of your favourite killer heels, your must-have cupcake frosting or the glow of the city skyline, Illamasqua want to hear what inspires your soul.

The UK’s hottest and most talked about make-up brand, Illamasqua is famed for its unique and daringly different collection of cult Nail Varnish colours. And now they want YOU to get creative.
Illamasqua is asking finger fetishists the world over to submit a description of their dream nail varnish colour, for their chance to make it a reality.

Run in conjunction with luxury retailer, Selfridges, this incredible competition is giving nail varnish fans the world over the opportunity to push their imaginative boundaries further than ever before and design their very own perfect shade.

Entrants must explain in no more than 50 words what inspired their unique choice, and provide an image or photograph to illustrate their big idea.

The prize? Two winners will see their dream colour created and sold exclusively at Illamasqua.com and Selfridges in London, Manchester Trafford and Birmingham from October 2010. In addition, they’ll receive a bottle of their winning colour before anybody else!

The winning entries will be selected by a high-profile judging panel consisting of legendary make-up artist Alex Box, nail artist to the stars Sophy Robson and YouTube sensations Pixiwoo.

The rules:

In 50 words or less, submit a description of your dream colour and the thinking behind it – please include pictures to illustrate your inspiration if possible.

Entries must be submitted in one of the following three ways, no later than
14th March 2010:

Via email: competition@illamasqua.com

Via blog post: email the link to competition@illamasqua.com

Via mail:

NAIL COMPETITION
c/o Illamasqua
6-8 Amwell St
London
EC1R 1UQ

One entry per person. Competition is open to entrants globally.

As soon as I read this I already knew the colour idea that I want to put forward... I'm not telling what it is though. Well, not till after I have sent my entry in anyway! Good luck anyone who is entering.

Revlon Spring Summer 2010: Lilac Pastelle

When I was sent this picture in an email, it really caught my attention. I love lilac, I think it's one of those colours that looks really fresh and modern - at the same time as being pretty and wearable. Plus I love lashes, so that helped too.

I was immediately sold on the nail colour, so pretty and perfect for my pale skin. The lilac lip gloss also drew me in and made me want it. It is a bit more unusual and I wasn't totally convinced it would look good or be wearable but having now tested it out I'm pleased to say it's lovely.

The nail varnish is a really pretty, pale lilac and colour-wise, I love it. I am a big fan of Revlon nail varnishes in general - usually a thin, but highly pigmented formula that applies smooth and dries quickly. This one I found a little hard to work with and not as impressive as the others I have tried. And trust me, I have tried it a number of times - I gave it three goes on Saturday (yep, three - that's how much I like the colour) and another again on Monday night.

Eventually on Monday I got the application to an average level - but I found the formula too transparent to apply smooth and consistent. I found that it went streaky and tended to dry so quickly (generally a good thing) but that it would smudge when doing multiple coats - which were essential to get the colour opaque.

I will persevere, and this won't put me off Revlon polishes in general but so far I'm not as impressed as I hoped for with the nail colour.

Revlon Lilac Pastelle nail varnish

(bit of a messy application - two coats plus base coat)

Back to the lip gloss - I absolutely love it. The colour is really pretty and think it will be a huge hit with any one who likes the pale/nude/baby pink lip look. The formula of the gloss is lovely too -nowhere near as sticky as most out there and felt really light and creamy. I don't like feeling like I have anything on my lips, so this worked for me.

Revlon Lipgloss in Lilac Patelle - slightly freaky lip close up

I wore the colour on Saturday night and even managed to get a couple of compliments. Go me (or should I say go Revlon). Anyway - love the lip gloss. I will definitely be testing out a few other glosses from the brand based on how nice this one is. I really liked this colour on it's own, but think it would also work really well over brighter colours to tone them down.


So, in the spirit of sharing - below is my mug from Saturday night complete with Revlon Lilac Lip gloss - I was also wearing the new Revlon Photo Ready Foundation (review coming soon). This is my first full face shot on the blog, so please be kind - I'm still trying to get the hang of this self-portrait malarkey!

Eek. my face.

**The Small Print**

The products mentioned in this post were sent free of charge for review purposes. All reviews or opinions are honest and impartial.

This might get me kicked out of the blogger club...

The other day I was having a bit of a browse around Primark (for those that don't have Primark, it's basically a really budget fashion shop) and I spotted the make-up section. Normally I wouldn't look twice at this, with some sort of bad association between super budget make-up and what sort of budget/cheap ingredients are they making them from.

The Packaging, not too cheap looking - check.

But for some reason I stopped when one product caught my attention - 'The Happy Couple' - duo bronzer and blusher. Immediately it reminded me of the Benefit '10' blush/bronzer duo so I had to reach out and have a play. I expected un-pigmented chalky and gritty powder but what I got seriously impressed me. The colour, especially the pink is really pretty - with a subtle shimmer, not chunky glitter. The powder was smooth and silky and easily blendable and really well pigmented. The bronzer is more on the golden side, so might work better as a highlight rather than all over bronzer, but still - very smooth, easy to blend and a pretty colour. Even the brush was impressively soft - although I still chose to use one of the other brushes in my collection instead.

The powder, silky smooth - check.

Yep, that's right - I bought, like and would recommend a piece of make-up from Primark.

Impressive pigmentation (no flash) - check.

Have you tried any of the make-up bits from Primarni? What do you think?

The Happy Couple cost me a budget-tastic £2.50.

Power Plate: Session 1

Last Thursday I was lucky enough to be invited to go along to Harrods (ooh, swanky) for a Power Plate class. I have read all over the place about the number of gorgeous celebs that swear by the vibrating wonders of Power Plate to hone their red-carpet-ready bodies, so I was really excited to get to go along and try these out for myself.

Not only are scores of celebrities raving about the wonders of power plate, but when I tweeted about it - I also got loads to tweet-replies saying how amazing they are and how I would love it, plus a friend of mine used them to get herself in shape for her wedding.

So all in all, some pretty exciting recommendations - I was really looking forward to my first class. Just to put the positive side into perspective - I was slightly anxious about how it would feel and if I would be left in pain as I have heard that your first couple of sessions can leave you feeling pretty broken.

So, last Thursday I arrived at the class feeling excited but not really sure what to expect. I was greeted by a couple of friendly power plate instructors who showed me the studio and where I could get myself changed and ready to go. Once I had changed (into a loose t-shirt, leggings and socks – you don’t need trainers for this, so very easy to pack for) I was ready to go.

Before getting on the main machine - which is pretty huge - I was invited to do a body test, to show me exactly how my body was made up (weight, BMI, muscle and body fat – eek!). This is going to come in very handy as I have some stats to compare against at the end of the month long fat-busting trial. The rough gist was that my weight was fine, muscle was on the lower end of the scale and fat on the higher end – probably could have predicted this, but it’s good to have it down in writing so I can see in black and white if any improvements are made - and you don't need to take my word for the results.

The class was small, four of us in total, including one girl who was very much the ‘busy-city-woman-doesn’t-have-time-to-work-out’ stereotype, doing sit-ups on the machine, wearing a full face of make-up whilst also checking her blackberry. The instructor talked us clearly through each of the simple exercises – lasting only a minute each – explaining which muscles we were working and constantly encouraging. It was really straight forward; I didn’t feel like a power plate dunce.

After the 20 min class I felt very refreshed and energised – like the vibrations really got my blood pumping! I did feel warm, but not sweaty – so it really is one you can do in a lunch break. My legs did feel a bit wobbly, but that’s probably just showing how long it has been since I did a work out.

I made sure I had a warm bath that night (helps the muscles) and ate a protein filled dinner (good for muscles) and the next day I felt fine. I felt like I had used the muscles – slight aches in the thighs and down my sides – but nowhere near the pain I had heard rumours of. I half expected it to kick in the next day, but still felt fine. The most amazing bit was how energised I felt on the Friday – I couldn’t have predicted it would make me feel that good!

So, that was my first experience – have you tried Power Plate? What did you think?? If you have any questions about it then please let me know and I will try to find answers (will ask the trainers).

I am aiming to 2/3 classes a week till the end of March and will report back on how it’s going. At the end of the trial I will also share the before and after body test results so you can judge for yourselves if it as effective as the celebs claim!

Wish me luck!

**The Small Print**

I was invited to go along to this class and participate in the month long trial free of charge for review purposes. All reviews or opinions shared are honest and impartial.