Flutter, Flirt and Frolic

Firstly I must apologise that i've been posting rather rarely of late, university work is getting the better of me unfortunately and every single time I go to write a post, I seem to fall asleep. I fear that this is old age getting to me, as i'm now officially 19. EEK.

I also must apologise that the visuals for this post aren't exactly amazing for I'm working, for the time being, from my sister's laptop which has no Photoshop (shock horror)... Back to basics I go.

Anyhoo, Valentines day is this coming week, so I thought it high time to post a little beauty guide on how to optimise your flirtation factor on the 14th.

FACE

1. This Revlon PhotoReady Powder  (£11.29) is a hero product of mine. I have been using it for a few months now and I really can't get enough of it. The powder is finely milled with light reflecting particles. It doesn't cake in the slightest and really does softly airbrush the skin without caking even slightly. Just layer over your choice of Beauty Balm or Foundation for a radiant, romantic complexion.

2. I have been itching to try a Beauty Balm for a while (I know, i'm rather behind the times) and this one from Dr Jart+ is a great one to start out. I opted for the Regenerating Beauty Balm (£14 here) and have found it a lovely, light base for a freshfaced glow. Plus it's so easy to apply, just a little bit goes a long way.

3. The one beauty product I really can't cope without is the NARS Blusher in Orgasm. It is a cult product for a reason, trust me, and this peachy pink blusher is every bit as good as the name suggests. It is £21.50 but really is worth every last penny. The image I have above, I have realised only now, is not actually of the correct blusher, but I honestly can't recommend this prettifying powder enough.

4. A little tip off from my marvellous mum, this Lancome Effet Miracle Primer/ Blemish Balm is an absolute godsend. I could even go as far as to say it is the best primer I have ever tried. It is a sure way to get strokeably smooth skin. Now, just to save up that £26 to buy my own!

EYES

1. Nothing says flirtation quite like luscious fluttering eyelashes, and these Shu Uemura eyelash curlers are the best out there, without a shadow of a doubt. A make-up artist I worked with recently referred to them as his 'Shu's'... Perfect for those of us who can't quite pronounce the full brand name. It'll be the best £20 you ever spent, ladies.

2. Only recently have I been informed of the totally transformative quality of strong, slick eyebrows. They actually do make such a difference in framing the face and all it takes is a little bit of contouring with a kit like this ELF one which is a ridiculous bargain at £3.75, available in four colourways. It is the perfect way to cheat that natural beauty look that your Mr. Right will adore.

3. Now, let us get back to those flirtatious fluttering eyelashes. I have recently been trying out this new mascara sample from Bourjois, and I must admit that I am very impressed with this FAN-TASTIC VOLUME edition. I've always said that Bourjois mascaras are the best budget option (alongside Max Factor) and this new one, with a fan-shaped comb, lengthens and intensifies eyelashes a treat. It is just £9.99 and is great for creating a wide-eyed natural look that is perfect for catching his eye.

LIPS

1. Ready to pucker up? This sugary pink lipstick from Topshop make-up in Macaroon is a gorgeous candy colour that will make that pout extra kissable. Just apply one layer for a nude look.

2. Another Orgasm, this time in a lip gloss. It has all the brightening and flattering qualities of it's blusher friend, but it provides the most enticing glossy coat on lips.

3. Make sure that your lips are totally immaculate by priming with this delicious Red Velvet lip scrub by Sara Happ, available here. It tastes just like a sweet, sumptuous red velvet cupcake and the find sugar granules buff away any dry skin for the most soft and sweet kiss imaginable. A treat for you and him!

EXTRAS

1. The ultimate indulgence, Laura Mercier Ambre Vanillé Soufflé body cream is a beauty must for Valentines day. It smells absolutely edible with the most intense vanilla notes that money can buy. It is also lusciously rich and nourishing, leaving supple skin with an inviting scent.

2. Continuing along the good enough to eat road, this Jo Malone Sweet Lemon Cologne, from their new High Tea collection, smells just like a sugary lemon tart. Very soon I shall be sharing some lovely new Jo Malone products with you, but in the mean time I highly suggest you treat yourself to this sweet spring scent. He'll love it every bit as much as you.

3. My Valentines polish of choice? Nails Inc in Shoreditch. This fun and flirty hot pink is not even remotely sickly sweet, but a great bubblegum pink that packs a little punch. It needs a fair few coats to get a decent colour, but it's worth it.

4. If you are more traditional, you'll be loving this summery bright polish from Essie's latest collection. This coral Snap Happy shade will certainly cheer up your Valentines day, whether or not you have someone to celebrate with. 

Valentines 2013: The Classics

(background image from here)

It's that time of year again. It's such fun if you're loved up, but less so if you're a single pringle. 

Bitterness aside, there is no denying that we can all appreciate the truly adorable pieces that can be found in the stores at the moment.

From the spine-tingling sexy lingerie through to the kitschy cutesy cards, there is something for everyone this time round. 

I'll be doing a few gifty guides over the next week, but i'll ease in with these unadulterated, romantic goodies that are classic but not even remotely cliche. 

If you would quite happily never see another heart-cuddling teddy bear again, you best direct your other half to this little post quick smart!

1. These cute cards from Topshop are the perfect little gesture for a loved one (£3.50 here)

2. It's a cheesy old chat up line, but this Paperchase card is also very cute. (£2.50 here)

3. I'm getting really into stamps just now (I'm that cool, yup) and this little Love Hearts stamp is an adorable little Valentines gift or treat. (£7.50 here)

4. Okay, this Paris Love bracelet by Mademoiselle Felee is a total beauty! It is delicate but stylish and a really unique present. (£34.50 here)

5. I'm weak at the knees for Mimi Holliday and this romantic Confetti Bomb balconette bra in an explosion of  coral and cherry polka dots is divine! Next on my list for sure. (£54 here)

6. Nicolas Feuillatte champagne is absolutely beautiful, and this rose offering is ideal for your pretty in pink lady. (£30 here) 

7. Sickeningly sweet, I know, but some people LOVE that. This key is an adorable gift for the person that truly does hold the key to your heart. (£8.50 NOTHS)

8. What lady wouldn't love a little Mulberry pouch on Valentines morning? This cherry red offering peppered with golden hearts is a romantic keepsake for your significant other. (£195 here)

9. I was lucky enough to receive these earrings for my birthday in a delicious aquamarine shade, but I love this pinky coral option for a more lovey-dovey twist. (£22 here)

10. What's the point in getting a bra without the matching knickers, boys? If you're treating your lucky lady to the Confetti Bomb bra, i'd be sure to pop these cerise lacy knickers in your basket as well. Tres jolie! (£40 here)

11. For another sickeningly adorable gift, why not invest in this gold-plated 'Cosy Lovebirds' pendant from Alex Monroe. It truly is beautiful and is most thoughtful! (£132 here)

12. How about these pillowcases for a you lovebirds to rest your sleepy heads on at night? I LOVE these (£45 here) 

13. Another little Mulberry indulgence, this is atop my wishlist at the moment, and i'm sure your other half would be more than grateful for one of these on the 14th. (£60 here)

14. More lingerie, this time you may go a little naughtier with a trip to Agent Provocateur. This silken Novah bra is truly glorious, even more so on. In rich raspberry satin with a kiss of scarlet lace, this bra is worth every last penny. (£95 here)

15. Pucker up! If you're looking for a little kiss this Valentines, then this Lulu Guinness lip clutch is sure to help you on your way. A modern classic! (£375 here)

16. These Charlotte Olympia limited edition Delphine heels are nothing short of yummy! They will 100% have you in the good books from here to eternity. (£595 here)

17. If you're looking for a little beauty product for your little miss, this limited edition 'Fracas' nail polish from Chanel should be just the ticket. It's sure to sell out fast, so get yourself to Selfridges to snap up this passionate bubblegum pink.  

18. These Novah lace trim silken french knickers are practically essential if you're buying the bra! The quality is superlative. (£65 here)

19. Yet another adorable card to swoon over. Not On The High Street always do 'em best, boys! This one contains a personalised love note- all together now: AAAAW. (£4.50 here)

Ooh La La La Perla