By Terry Ombre Blackstar : Swatches and Review

The By Terry Ombre Blackstars do tend to polarize opinions.

I read far more favorable reviews than negative, but I feel like I sit in a weird no mans land because I do see their faults but I continue to love them anyway.

Does that make sense?

These cream eye shadows do not come cheap at £29- I only managed to justify them by redeeming by five quid off reward from SpaceNK.

I wish considering their price tag that they were perfect- I think for that amount of money a product should be flawless, but it is not.

I have two shades- Bronze Moon and Misty Rock.

Brown Perfection will be mine the moment I have enough Ndulge points. 

The consistency and texture of these sticks is divine- super creamy but not smeary, they apply like a dream- there is no dragging or scratching and the colours are my absolute favorites. 

L-R Bronze Moon and Misty Rock

Bronze Moon is as the name would suggest, a bronze shade with a lot of gleam to it- it almost looks wet on the eye. Such a easy shade to wear and perfect for when you are in a hurry.

I scribble on, blend through the crease and then apply a touch more over those pesky mascara smudges then BOOM. 

A wet look bronzey eye in 4 seconds.

The BM formula is the better of the two- I have far less issues with creasing and it lasts and lasts until I take it off.

The issue that I can face is that if I apply a bit too much/its a super hot day - creasing can happen. I don't really need a primer with this, but on a humid day, it is a must.

I love this so much and when it runs out, I will definitely repurchase, its so easy and such a unique bronze colour, but it is not perfect. 

Misty Rock is the more complex of the two. I love this shade big time- its a purple/taupe/silver- so unique and it just makes me feel so summery. 

Again, I would repurchase when it runs out without hesitation, but this CAN be quite difficult to work with.

I find if I prime my eyelids, and set with powder my problems do halve- but for £29 I think it's worth noting.

Every time I wear this people ask me what it is, it is easy and creamy to apply, it doesn't flake and it gives another beautiful wet look to the eye- but it can crease like a mofo. 

Exhibit A: 

See what I mean? It just seems to crack.

I don't have particularly oily lids but if you do I would either avoid or use a heavy duty primer.

Bronze Moon in action with a bit of Bobbi Browns Camel in the crease :

Here's just a little swatch to give you more of an idea of colour :

L-R: Bronze Moon and Misty Rock

Bottom Line : I will continue to use these around the clock- beautiful colours, super easy to apply, very travel friendly and long lasting. 

The con is obviously the creasing and normally that is a humongous no no from me, I can try to avoid it with primers and powders etc, but even if the cracks appear, I love these too much to be perturbed.

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July Beauty and Skincare Favorites

It's that time again! Time to have a little look at what I've been loving in the month of July...

Clarins Instant Light Lip Balm in Rose : This is so darn easy to wear which is why it has been my grab and go through the busy month of July. I've nearly finished it which is pretty unusual for a hoarder like myself.

If you are familiar with the Instant Light Glosses, then you will recognize the same caramel/vanilla scent. It's delicious.

This is such an easy little hand bag balm, it imparts a gentle glossy pink to the lips that is low maintenance but just helps polish off any look.

These are very comfortable and moisturizing but I believe it contains mineral oil which would explain why in the long run it can make my lips feel a little dry. However that does not deter me, I just make sure to use my trusty Nuxe Rev De Miel before bed.

By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Bronze Moon : For some reason it has taken my light years to write this review, but it will be up tomorrow.

Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow : I have had this since Christmas but as of late I have found it hard to go without.

It has a beautiful, delicate rose scent which is in no way over powering or irritating, but it the effect this gives that keeps me coming back for more. I seem to be working my way through this quite slowly though so that's good.

This is the only primer I have that actually adds a level of hydration. I love any kind of radiance primer for example the Dior Glow Maximiser, but although that does bring the glow, it doesn't feel that beneficial to my skin. Wonderglow just feels like another layer of moisturizer and as a dry skin girl, that helps.

It adds such a gorgeous, healthy golden sheen to the skin. It perks up my complexion especially if I am tired and/or hungover. Foundation sits beautifully on top as well.

Liz Earle Healthy Glow Cream Blush in Nectar : I've now hit pan on this little guy! Although it looks small it has actually lasted me ages. I love this, it adds a very lovely pink dewiness to the cheeks and due to the teeny little size it is very travel friendly so it was the only blush I took with me when I went away. Also no brushes needed which makes life even easier.

For a full review with swatches, click here.

Sarah Chapman Rapid Radiance Cleanser : I finally tried something from Sarah Chapman! I normally prefer a balm cleanser, but as I already have my much loved Oskia Renassiance Cleansing Gel in my cabinet, I thought I would try this.

This is a clay based cleanser- which is not something I would really go for as I have dry skin, but this has actually worked wonders and I really missed it when I went away. I think that's always a good indiction of how much a product actually works for you.

I don't find this works well as an evening cleanser as I tend to prefer something more heavy duty to remove any remaining scraps of make up , but in the morning this is lovely.

I dispense two pumps onto my hands and rub onto my dry skin. I can imagine oily skin folk would love this but it also works for me as I feel like during the warmer months I can wake up feeling a little more greasy than usual and this makes me feel refreshed and balanced again.

You can also use this as a two minute radiance booster.

This cream cleanser is packed full of goodies such as Lactic Acid (great for dehydrated skins) and Salicylic Acid (your best friend if your skin is looking congested or dull)

I have found over the course or using this every morning my skin is looking brighter and healthier. I really look forward to using this in the AM.

Bumble and Bumble Pret a Powder : This little travel size has not left my handbag all month. I am still in love with it, for a full review, click here.

This Works Perfect Skin Miracle : This is a tinted moisturizer, but not in the way you might expect as it doesn't add any coverage.

This cream smells like cake, which is slightly odd but pleasant and is a dark mustard/gold in colour.

When dispensed into your hand it is mildly alarming, but when you rub it in it just adds a gently warmth to the complexion also whilst giving you a dose of hyluronic acid.

On good skin days I have just been wearing this with a touch of concealer on my dark circles.

Smashbox Contour Stick : I have been loving this all month. This comes in a set of three - a cool contour, warm bronzer and a matte cream highlight.

I have been using all three but the contour shade has definitely seen the most love. The texture is so creamy and blendable it is a cinch to use. I love it, for a full review click here.

Charlotte Tilbury Swish and Pop Blush in First Love : Shock horror, another CT product!

I love this warm peachy blush, on days when I haven't been wearing the Liz Earle blush. I actually bough this a few months ago but I was so in love with Love Glow which I still am, but during the warmer months this has been everything.

It's a good one and a full review is on its way!

What have been your favorites of the month?

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June Make Up Favorites

Hello Everyone! 

I am so sorry it's been so long since my last post, I have been crazy busy BUT we will resume the normal schedule of Mon- Fri at 7am GMT.

I have a lot of posts coming up.

SO onto the favorites- there is a lot I have been loving in the month of June - a good mixture of make up and skin care, so I am splitting them into two sections as otherwise this post would take a month to read.

Max Factor Masterpiece Transform Mascara : This is actually a repurchase for me.

I find mascara as a whole probably the most disappointing product you can get as they are laden with claim after claim of false lashes, huge volume, can be seen from space and to be honest nine times out of ten they do not deliver.

A lot of mascaras do nothing for my lashes but make them dark. This Mascara no no no. This is a good one. On the whole I love Max Factor mascaras and I do genuinely feel that they do some of the best out there.

 This mascara gives me length AND volume. Volume is what I want. I love this- it also wont break the bank so if you're in the market, give this guy a go.

Bobbi Brown Eye Shadow in 'Camel' : I have just been obsessed with this since I got it! It is the ultimate warm eye shadow and just brings such life to your eyes. If you want to read a full rave review, click here.

Clarins Ombre Eye Shadow in 'Aquatic Rose' : This has been another love of mine since I bought it. It's a beautiful pale rose gold that just makes you look fresh and awake. This is a limited summer release so pick it up quick if you're interested! I do also have Aquatic Grey which is a beauty, but Rose has been used a lot more. 

For a full review click here.

Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick in 'Bitch Perfect' : At this time of year I tend to opt for a lighter, more low maintenance lip colour and this CT lipstick Bitch Perfect fits the bill.

When it's hot and you're sweating, you really don't want to be smearing dark burgundy all over your chin. 

With Bitch Perfect I find that the colour suits all make up looks, makes you look effortlessly polished and it is fairly moisturizing but hugs the lips nicely so it stays put. Also it fades evenly. I'm so into low maintenance right now. Bitch Perfect for the win. 

Clinique Cheek Pop in 'Heather Pop' : The formula of these cheek pops is out of this world. I love the luminous rosey glow of this blush, for full details click here.

By Terry Ombre Blackstar in 'Misty Rock' : The formula of this isn't as perfect as I would like it to be- if I layer it up it can crease/flake like crazy so I have to make sure I apply it correctly but the shade is just sheer total and utter perfection. I can't think of any one of any colouring that would't suit it. It's a pretty taupy/purply/pink colour with a gorgeous shimmer running through. 

A full review is on its way. 

Mac Cream Colour Base in 'Hush' : I love a good cream highlighter. Done properly it is the most natural looking glow that you can get- Hush is no exception.

 I first starting coveting this whilst watching the Pixiwoo Sisters- Nic always looks so glowy and this is often the highlight she uses. Who doesn't love a peachy glow. Again, a full review is on its way.

Essie Peach Side Babe : This literally jumped out at me in Boots last week. It is part of the new Essie Summer collection, so I am assuming that means limited? If so, I am defintely picking up another one. I just don't want anything else on my nails. This is a beautiful almost neon orange based coral with a cream finish. It makes my hands look so tanned.

This also has really good lasting power, I can't be dealing with polish that chips after 5 mins- I have had this on for a few days now and we are still looking good.

 Literally in love. Get it. 

What are your recent favourites? Anything I need to add to the wish list?

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Quick, Prettyfying Make Up

Is prettyfying a word? For the sake of this blog post, we'll just say it is.

If you're reading this, I'm guessing you're also a lover of all things beauty.

I love the creativity, the new products or rocking a kinda weird kooky look and making it wearable, but there are times when I just want to use products that are more 'prettyfying'.

You know, just adds to your natural beauty- I find these products make me look healthy and natural, in a quick and easy way.

Lets start in order of application:

Dior Glow Maximizer : Like name like nature. I don't use this all the time, but when I do, I use it all over my face like a primer and it adds such luminosity.

When you see it swatched it literally looks like a liquid highlighter- which it can be used as, but under make up it just brightens up my face. 

Lovely.

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua : I have already talked about this product so I wont bang on, but it is one of my favorite bases- light, natural, glowy but not overly so and it feels very comfortable on the skin.

No caking, no sitting in pores, its beaut.

Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Complete Coverage Concealer : This is probably the best concealer I have, read a full review here.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder : I'm so glad I managed to take a picture of this as I've just hit pan. 

I was never into powders up until trying this.

I have dry skin so the idea of setting my make up with powder just feels kinda gross to me...but I thought I would invest in a high end powder and I really like it! I use this every day to set my concealer under my eyes and to be honest ever since I started doing that I cant fathom that I didn't before.

It mattifies the slight sheen from my concealer so hence makes it look like I have added a hint more coverage. I use it down the side of my nose and it does mattify were shine isn't wanted, but it is never cakey. 

It is very important to add this step here as I am using a lot of glowy products, so this is needed to take any of the shine away from unflattering areas, for example the nose/forehead etc.

Benefit Brow-Zing : As you can see- I have hit pan here! As I have used it daily for over a year, I think I am doing pretty well. The little brushes are very useful, I use the angled brush for the wax and then with the flat brush add the powder- you end up with lovely, natural looking brows.

I need quite a bit of brow help so I never go without this.

I cannot stand blocky/harsh eyebrows- this does not produce them.

Benefit Gimme Brown : I use this everyday to set my brows, read a full review here

Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curlers : Because I have the worlds straightest lashes.

Nars Eyeliner in Via Veneto : I use black eyeliner EVERYDAY- it is a non negotiable.

However, I only use it to tightline- if you don't know what that means, I just line my upper water line.

After I've curled my lashes so the curlers don't rub it off, I just add this and it helps to thicken up my super fine lashes. If you haven't tried before- it may feel weird, but give it a go. I guarantee you will be amazed by how much more defined your eyes look, in the most subtle way.

Also- if you want to wear make up at school and you aren't allowed/your male  and you want to wear a bit of make up but not have it look obvious- try this as well.

This Nars one is quite new to me, a full review is on its way.

Benefit They're Real : You can see I'm having a bit of a Benefit moment!

Read the full review here. 

By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Bronze Moon : When I'm trying to do pretty in a hurry I use this after my mascara. Why you ask?

Because I'm messy.

Pretty much everytime I use mascara I end up with a little bit of smudging just behind my lashes- not like eye liner, no just a smudge and it really annoys me.

I often can't be bothered to wipe it off as that can make the matter worse, so I swipe the tiniest, lightest line behind my eyelashes and then blend with a finger.

It hides the smudge and leaves me with subtle, shimmery bronze lids.

For a swatch, click here. 

L-R: Mary Lou-Manizer, Pink Coral, Dior Glow Maximiser, Clarins Lip Perfector 

Bobbi Brown Pink Coral Blush : Read a full review here

The Balm Mary Lou-Manizer : Use this with caution! This is very easy to over do, but I like to use a fan brush and sweep this beautiful champagne highlighter on the tops of my cheekbones, round of sides of my eyebrows in a C-shape and the cupids bow.

If you use a light hand you will look gorgeous and glowy- and you have already helped yourself out by using a matte blush so things don't get OTT.

This product is so damn smooth and buttery I just kept touching it when I first got it.

It is a stunner, but be careful otherwise it will look incredibly obvious.

Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Balm Perfector in Rose: I'm sorry you can barely see the swatch on my arm- it is a very transparent colour that just adds the slightest hint of pink.

I love lipsticks- but can take time to apply/can be high maintenance. I LOVE lip liners as well but when I just don't have time or patience I put a bit of this on and it makes my lips look moisturized and just healthy.

I think I might prefer the lip gloss version but I am yet to make up my mind on that...

It's just a nice hint of pink that you can apply as you're leaving the house.

This may seem like a lot of steps but trust me- I can do this pretty quickly!

Do you have any tips on hour to be pretty in a hurry?

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Face Of The Day

Here's a look at whats on my face today!

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua : This is one of my favorite foundations of all time. I use the shade B20 and it matches me perfectly, giving me a light/medium coverage that looks natural and glowy.

This is totally day time appropriate although I have worn it at night as well.

You have to give it a good shake as its a very watery foundation, but it just blends into nothing on the skin.

I sometimes use a brush with this, but as of late I have been loving just massaging it in with fingers.

If you love natural, glowy bases- check this one out.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush : I feel quite harsh talking about this beautiful palette as it was a limited edition, but the shade on the far left (Luminous Flush) and far right (Mood Exposure) are both permenant.

The middle shade Incandescent Electra was initially a palette exclusive, but I saw on Temptalia that Hourglass will soon be releasing this as a single, permanent shade!

I'm so glad because I adore this shade, everyone should have the chance to own it.

I love all of these blushes as a whole, baked products are my obsession at the moment as they look so natural.

These blushes look glowy and genuinely achieve that lit from within look. I love these- I highly recommend.

Also they are pigmented, but they blend in seamlessly so you don't get that harsh block of blush on your face.

Incandescent Electra is my go to whenever I'm tired as it perks up my face without being obvious and due to the subtle shimmer, it negates the need for highlighter.

Incandescent Electra

I don't know if that swatch helps at all! But it is a lovely peachy pink.

By Terry Ombre Black Star in Bronze Moon : I love this, if you weren't sure which shade to get, go for this one. The formula is exceptional, fairs better without primer (which is basically unheard of in my books) its appropriate for all occasions and its so damn easy to work with.

Just a note though, I also have the shade 'Misty Rock' and I think the Bronze Moon formula is better, as its just that bit smoother and doesn't crease at all. MR doesn't, but at the end of the day, I can see a few lines starting to appear and it looks ever so slightly patchy.

I love both of them, but if you're going to spend £29 on one eyeshadow, you want it to be perfect, and for me BM just takes the lead here.

I sweep this over my eyelid, the formula just glides across, and then I blend through the crease.

A gorgeous, sheeny bronze eye in no time. You will look polished with zero effort.

Perfect on days like today, when you just can't be bothered.

                                             

Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick in Sexy Sienna : This is still my number one at the moment, read a full review here.

Benefit Gimme Brow : I love this stuff so much I've nearly run out. I have the shade medium/dark which is a perfect match, it's nice and ashy, none of that warm red undertone creeping through...I made that mistake in my teens. It didn't suit me.

If I am having a good brow day- if they have just been threaded, I only really need to use this on its own. When the brows are unruly, I tend to use my Benefit Browzing, but always with this after, to set and add texture.

I have sparse eyebrows, which annoys me as I have dark hair and dark eyes, yet not much in the way of eyebrows.

I'm not bothered about having Cara Delevinge brows, I just want my brows to look groomed, fuller and natural. Gimme brow does this by darkening the eyebrows that I do have, and adding volume making it look like I have more hairs than I do.

Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curlers : I have to curl my lashes everyday and these do a lovely job at grabbing the lashes and giving them a good lift. Some curlers can pinch the lid (which is as unpleasant as it sounds) but I rarely run into that problem here.

I am also wearing Benefits 'They're Real' mascara - a full review is on its way!

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