Illamasqua Naked Strangers Collection

For those of you not already aware Illamasqua launched their new nail varnish's from the upcoming Naked Strangers Collection on 23rd exclusively to their online registered customers.

I personally am very excited about this new mini collection as the colours are perfect for summer.

The collection includes:

Nail Varnish (£13.50)

Monogamous - creamy flesh pink

Faithful - coppered metal

Swinger - glistening platinum gold

Lipglosses (£13.00)

Intense Lipgloss in Stranger - platinum gold

Sheer Lipgloss in Intimacy - nude pink brown

Blushers (£16.50)

Powder Blusher in Naked Rose - neutral beige brown

Cream Blusher in Zygomatic - naked pink brown

The full collection is due to hit stores on 31st May

Giveaway: Tickets to Ghost the Musical

The Lovely people at Amazing PR, Nazila LoveGlamour, Ghost the Musical and milktwosugars Limited are giving you the chance to win two tickets to see Ghost the Musical in London.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoK1zSQMeBo

Terms & Conditions

• This competition is free to enter and no purchase is necessary. Only one entry per person.
• Entrants to this competition must be aged 18 or over and a resident in the UK.
• The competition prize includes: 2 tickets to Ghost The Musical valid Monday-Thursday until 13^th September.
• The immediate families of the blog offering the competition are not entitled to enter.
• milktwosugars Limited reserves the right to amend and/or withdraw the competition at any time without prior notice.
• The blog editor will randomly select a winner from all valid entries.
• No cash option or alternative to prizes offered.
• The winners will be notified by the blog editor following the closing date of the competition.
• Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to agree to be bound by them.
• The judge's decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into.
• The promoter of the competition is milktwosugars Limited. 
• Closing date 6th June 
• DONT FORGET TO COMMENT WITH YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS!

All you need to do to enter is the following:

  a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

The Birthday Treat - The Used Meet and Greet and Illamasqua Haul

I meant to post this sometime ago but, it had to go on the back burner as the last few weeks have been incredibly busy with Hospital appointments and what not.

As a lot of you know the week following my birthday I was lucky enough to go to a meet and greet with one of my favourite bands The Used. My sister and I ventured to London on the cold and wet Saturday; we started off at Illamasqua's flagship store in London.

The visit to Illamasqua was a last minute thing because as some of you are aware I had treated myself to some items for my birthday but the delivery company they use, My Hermes, delivered my parcel to the wrong address twice! I was desperate for the items I had ordered and even though I had to miss out on my industry discount I wanted the items too badly.

I brought the following items: Fundamental Palette, Precision Ink in Abyss, Masquara in Raven, Medium Pencil in Paddle, Nail Varnish in Scorn and Scorch and finally Cream Pigment in Hollow. This haul hurt my wallet extensively and seeing as at that point I had paid twice for it you can imagine what my bank balance looked like afterwards, it was so worth it though because all of the items that I have actually played with are amazing. I am yet to use the Fundamental Palette or swatch the colours so I will do another post probably later today with swatches.

Posing in our new Ves

Once my bank card was well and truly broken we headed over to Kingston's Hippodrome to see The Used; I have to admit Sarah and I were like little girls as this is a band we have followed for a few years and the first time seeing them live. We queued in the rain for what felt like forever but once the line started moving it really started moving. 

Once inside we spied the merch stall (and the very hot merch guy ha-ha) and got ourselves the vest that appears in the Merch Haul post. We both changed into our new merch as this is something we always do when we get stuff at gigs and then the waiting began.

 We were lucky enough to get a great spot at the side of the stage so we really were close to the action. Quinn and Bert arrived onstage and played a short acoustic set which truly was amazing, that man’s voice sounds no different live than on the CD itself.

I like to tell myself he is pointing at me ha ha

The set finished and we were told to make our way to the back area of the venue, Sarah and I have never moved so fast because we really didn’t like the thought of being number 699 and 700, we managed to get in line about 50 people back and then we waited and waited and waited some more.

About 30 minutes passed and then the line started moving, I personally was shaking and very excited and then finally came the moment to meet Jepher, Quinn, Dan and Bert. I had been trying to think of what I was going to say to them but nothing unique came into my head. When I reached the table I was greeted by Jepher and all I could say was thank you for the most amazing birthday present to which he replied "Oh Happy Birthday Sweetie", I rambled something about being old so he asked how old I was and when I told him his reply was "Ahhh that’s not old I turned 80 recently" with a huge grin on his face. I missed out on talking to Quinn because Jepher carried on but I would not change it.

Sarah's head and then from R-L: Jepher, Quinn, Dan and Bert

 We were rushed through Quinn and Dan to get to Mr McCracken himself now I was really shaking, we had been told no pictures with the guys although, we had seen a few people ask and be allowed so we thought we would ask but, Bert’s manager said no. Bert was so lovely about it and looked genuinely upset that he couldn’t and said "if you are coming to the gig tomorrow come see us after and I will make sure you get your picture" we told him we weren’t and he looked really sad and all he could say was sorry. If I am honest I don’t care about the photo I got to meet them and that’s something I may never get the chance to do again.

So, that ends the most amazing weekend and birthday in a long time, it will take some beating I can tell you. I hope you enjoyed reading my rambled post and if you haven’t already check out The Used’s new album Vulnerable you won’t be disappointed.

Ems xo

Ghost The Musical Courtesy of Nazila Nail Glitz and Amazing PR

I was lucky enough to win a Beauty Blogger Competition last week, to go with a friend to see Ghost The Musical courtesy of Nazila LoveGlamour and Amazing PR.

Ruby Rockets Make-up and My Holly Willoughby dress

I ventured to London on Friday to meet up with one of my Best Friends Jenny. For review purposes it should be pointed out that Jenny's worst nightmare are musicals, I however didn't find this out until I met up with her.

I arrived into London late so missed out on the pre show manicure that Nazila's team were doing, instead Jen and I enjoyed our Godminster Aromatic Champagne Cocktail and chatted to some of the lovely Amazing PR staff and Nazila herself. 

Myself and Jen were given goody bags, mine containing a set of the Nazila nails to play with as I missed out on the Manicure.

We took our seats and I have to give all props to the team, because I was not expecting front row royal circle seats and that's just what we got, in my opinion these were the best seats in the house. The curtain rose, the tissues were at the ready after being advised by the lovely barmaid that we would need them, to which Jen and I laughed.

The musical proceeded and was kept very close to the film to my delight, obviously some little bits had to be changed to be able to show it on stage. The songs were amazing I think there was only one I disliked and that was Life Turns On A Dime but apart from that the songwriting was amazing. The set itself was unlike any musical I have seen, its a visual masterpiece made up of video walls which are used to create the ever changing set, it really has to be seen to be believed.

View from the stage

I will admit that I blubbed at one point during the song With You, my whole body shook as I tried to contain the sobs. The girl that plays Molly, is amazing at drawing you in and making you believe that this is really happening to her and that her grief for Sam is real. As for Oda Mae Brown, well all I can say is the current lady playing her is perfect, the lungs on her are unbelievable and she actually got more applause than the lead couple.

Once the musical had finished all of the competition winners and their guests were led downstairs and onto the stage, where we were joined by Molly and Sam for a group photo opportunity. Jen and I didn't get a chance to speak to the pair as a lot of people proceeded to go over and chat to them. However, upon leaving the girl that plays Molly proceeded to thank Jen and I and compliment me on my tattoo and outfit which was very sweet of her.

Onstage with Jen

Jen and I left and discussed the show on the way to the tube and Jen the Musical hater described how much she loved it and how much she cried, so even a Musical hater can be turned around by this one. Overall, an absolutely amazing event to be a part of. I would go and watch this musical again in a heartbeat, its so very well thought out and has you gripped from the minute the curtain goes up.

I will be doing a NOTD using the Nazila Nail Glitz 3D Nails later in the week so keep your eyes open for that.

You can purchase Nazila LoveGlamour Nail Glitz packs here from £9.99

Have you seen the musical or tried out the nails? if so what did you think?

Ems xo

Inside the Goody Bag

Screen Shopping

By chance today I came across a few brilliant sites that I have never actually been too before and located some items I must somehow add to my wardrobe. At the moment the only way of clothes shopping is by begging borrowing and stealing from my sister :) (she loves me)

Anyway these are a few of the items I have my eyes on at the moment:

 

Sailor Shorts From Bettie Page Clothing $58

 

Polka Dot Navy Floaty Dress From AX Paris £40.00

 

Lace Bow Dress From AX Paris £35.00

Glitz Skull Top From AX Paris £18.00

 

Vintage USA Flag Top From AX Paris £18.00

Baggy Fit Dungarees From Amazon £65.00

I am totally desperate need of some Dungarees don't ask me why I just want to be able to chill in them and a vest in the Summer. 

So, that's my current wish list and any of my friends or family seeing this feel free to buy them all for me ha ha!

Ems xo

Cosmopolitan Blog Awards 2012

Its that time of year where all of the pleas for nominations float about the blogging community!

I am just going to say that if you like reading my blog and would like to see me shortlisted then please vote for me in the newcomer category. There are so many great blogs out there so I am sure I don't stand a hope in hell but you never know :)

Have a great weekend my lovelies, I have some great posts coming this week so keep your eyes peeled.

Much Love

Ems xo

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Offer

To celebrate being voted Most Revolutionary Beauty Product of the Last 20 Years at the CEW (UK) Awards 2012 and the  Best Cleanser award at the Sunday Times Style Beauty Awards 2012 Liz Earle are bringing you an amazing offer.

They will be selling Cleanse & Polish 100ml plus two pure muslin cloths at original launch price of £9.50 instead of the current price of £14.25! This offer launches on Wednesday 23rd May and is available online at lizearle.com and via their  Customer Centre (01983 813 913) and is available until Friday 25th May, or while stocks last.

This is a great time to try this holy grail product and see what all the fuss is about you really wont be sorry with this one!

Ems xo

FOTD - Ruby Rockets The Pin Up Girl

 Please allow me to introduce you to Ruby Rockets my Pin Up Alter Ego! 

I love playing Pin Up I don't do it enough, last night I knew I needed to do an FOTD for you guys as it has been a while. I had nothing in mind when I started this just happened and I love it and I hope you guys do too. It is honestly the easiest look and anyone can achieve it!

!

 

Face:

Sephora Tinted Moisturiser - Medium 26 Peach (this is nearly gone sniff sniff)

YSL Touche Eclait No.1

Smashbox Fusion Eyes and Cheek Palette - Pink Colour Used on the cheek as a blush, Bronze as a contour and the champange as a highlighter.

Yaby Loose Setting Powder

Eyes:

Rimmel Brow Pencil

ELF shadow primer

MAC Vanilla

Illamasqua Cream Pigment in Hollow

Yaby Eyeshadow in ES347 Pottery

Illamasqua Precission Ink in Abyss

Illamasqua Masquara in Raven

Lips:

Catrice Cosmetics Welcome To Las Vegas Limited Edition Duo

I have had a few people ask how to get the eye look so I may do a video. If this is something you would like to see then let me know :)

Ems xo

FOTD - Bare Escentuals Natural Look

Products Used

Face:

Prime Time Foundation Primer

Original SPF15 Foundation in Fair

All Over Warmth

Mineral Veil

Catrice London Blush (Non Bare Esentuals)

Eyes:

Prime Time Primer Shadow in Gunmetal

The Nick of Time Palette - Chance and Kismet

Flawless Definition Mascara in Black

Catrice Kohl Liner in Black lightly smudged to give a softer look.(Non Bare Esentuals)

Lips

Buxom Big and Healthy Lips in Samantha

All items sent for consideration. All views are my own

Review - Bare Escentuals Make-under

On the 19th of April I was invited to have a Make-under at the new Brighton Bare Esentuals Boutique. I arrived in the very posh boutique at 4pm to be greeted by Sharmin.

Sharmin began by matching my skin to the correct foundation, she explained that she would do half of my face and that I would do the other half to see how simple it was to do.

Sharmin cleansed my skin using the Purifying Facial Cleanser followed by the Purely Nourishing Cream. The cream is specific for dry skin, the thick luxurious cream is non greasy and leaves the skin feeling very smooth and nourished. The Nourishing Cream, has a very mild relaxing citrus smell.

The skin was then primed all over using Prime Time Foundation Primer. This primer is amazing for people with dry skin and does a great job of masking large pores which I suffer with across the cheek area. Once the skin was primed, it was ready to have the foundation Original SPF15 Foundation added, which Sharmin chose in Fair. The process of adding the foundation is so simple you tap the tiniest amount into the lid of the foundation, swirl your brush and then tap off the excess. When applying the foundation to the skin, you use circular motions all over the face gently buffing the product into the skin, using the Full Flawless Application Brush. To conceal any red areas or dark circles, continue using the foundation but you switch to the Maximum Coverage Concealer Brush. It is amazing how much coverage you can get from a tiny bit of powder!

Warmth All-Over Colour and Fair SPF15 Foundation

The face was contoured using the Warmth All-Over Face Colour and the 3 technique. The 3 technique is where you apply the colour starting at the temples and then drawing a 3 from the temple down across the cheeks and then onto the jawline. The 3 technique evenly distributes the colour, where the sun would naturally place colour. A small amount of the same powder was placed onto the nose area to bring everything together.

Once the foundation and warmth was in place, Sharmin set the face with the Mineral Veil Finishing Powder. Sharmin then handed the brushes and products over to me for me to complete the other side of my face following her instruction.

Top - Bottom: Primer in Gunmetal blended, Unblended, Chance and  Kismet

With the face completed we moved onto the eyes, first of all the eyes were primed using Prime Time Primer Shadow in Gunmetal. The great thing about this particular primer, is that it has some colour to it so it can be warn alone or completely blended with shadow applied over the top. We then chose to use The Nick of Time palette, applying the lighter shade Chance, all of the lid up to the brow bone and then Kismet as a contour colour. Chance has a shimmer to it and Kismet is a matte colour. A little of The Ready Blush in shade, The Confession was added to the cheeks.

The look was finished using the Flawless Definition Mascara in black on the lashes and Buxom Big and Healthy Lip Polish in Sugar. This Lip Polish is a plumper and it honestly did increase the size of my lips very slightly.

Sharmin filled in a full list of the products she used so that I had a record if I wanted to purchase any of the items in the future. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, the girls in my local boutique are all so lovely as is the service itself. I would recommend to anyone looking to try the products out as its free and a great way to learn about the products.

The pictures taken of myself following the Make-under did not come out at all well so I have redone the look for an FOTD which will be following this post a little later.

Have you had a Make-under? Tell me what you thought.

Ems xo

*Arranged by PR. All views are my own