Must Have Scents

Below is some summer scents too wet your appetite for a new fragrance to finish off the summer!

Ore first scent is by Moschino - Pink Bouquet

This has launched in the UK!

From first glance this perfume is adorable and fits perfectly into your hand unlike some of the new brands who seem to think it's a brilliant idea to create a design that you can't really hold - (it may look like a work of art but it's crap)

As the name suggests the aroma of this perfume stems from a bouquet of flowers and has a fun and girly fragrance. To love this perfume, you definitely need to love pink :-), it's a beautiful addition to any girls' vanity table.

The Scents:

The senses are captured by explosive freshness of bergamot and pineapple sorbet, and raspberry pulp delightfully awaken by pony and romantic pink lily of the valley clusters, intensified by mystifying jasmine. The flowery heart is exquisitely laced with gingerbread and mouth-watering peach, for a sweet addiction. The cosmone, an intense and elegant moss, gives to the cosmopolitan a smooth texture

Prices range from £29.50 - £59.00 within the range there is also a shower gel and body lotion so you can smell lovely all over.

Burberry Body

My grandpa gave me this and he did very well - brand new perfume that smells good!

Again a beautiful bottle with gold hinting within the perfume and around the bottle.

The Scents:

It's quite a strong scent and sophisticated, I personally would wear this out in the evening!

You can buy it on Amazon for £44 for 100ml

The next scent has the longest name ever...ready BCBGMAXAZRIA

This is again a more girly fragrance with the bottle resembling a flower in pink :-) Max Azria is the creator, and the legend behind celebrity-favourite Herve Leger.

The Scents:

Its starts with delicious fruity notes and evolves into chic floral symphony. The scent finishes with a mature sandal wood musk.

BCBMAXAZRIA ranges from £44 - £56 and is available in Debenhams, The Fragrance Shop and Next.

Would love to know all your favourite summer scents!

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Beauty Review: Face Masks

First aid beauty (F.A.B) - ULTRA REPAIR INSTANT oatmeal mask 

REPAIRS AND REVIVES EVEN THE DRIEST OF SKIN IN JUST 10 MINUTES!

Key Ingredients:

• Colloidal Oatmeal – to soothe irritated skin
• Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract – helps to heal the skin and anti-aging as it combats free radicals
• Shea Butter – moisturises and nourishes the skin

The perfect antidote to dry skin. This 10-minute wonder mask contains a formula that blends protective oats with botanical antioxidants and skin nourishing ingredients, to repair and revive even the most rough, flaky and dehydrated faces.

56.7g RRP £18

How to use: Apply a layer of the calming Oatmeal Mask over your cleansed face, wait for 10 minutes then rinse with warm water. Use 2-3 times a week to rehydrate dry skin.

L'Occitane Instant Hysration Mask 

(A L'huile Essentelle et Eau D'Angelique Bio)

Part of L'Occitane's new Angelica range, coined hydration deep within. It's the quickest out of the range tested only taking 3 minutes and needing little to be taken off. With a fresh feeling left afterwards.

Key Ingredients:

• Organic Angelica Water 
• Essential Oil's

75ml RRP £19

Golden Caviar by Biodroga

A luxurious cream mask

 

This is a rich cream mask with shimmering pigments, containing precious caviar extract and vitamins.  

After using the product my skin felt revitalised, the mask provides a mositure boost and balances the skin’s lipids to fortify its barrier function whilst smoothing lines and wrinkles. 

50ml RRP £34.80

Dr Darren McKeown, Tri-Mineral Micro Dermabrasion Mask

Benefiting from the experience a trained cosmetic doctor this mask promises to be the key to radiant skin. The tri-mineral complex energises the skin cellular metabolism, boosting skin protein production for a more radiant, luminous complexion. Dull skin cells disappear to reveal, new, younger, fresher-looking skin.

After using once by skin felt completely smooth, although it did get rid of my fake tan, but I guess that shows it’s working. 

Contains:

• Magnesium, Copper, Zinc - to improve radiance
• Waterlily Extract - to smooth and comfort
• black tea extract - to plump and brighten
• Microdermabrasion Particles - to remove dead skin cells

How to use: Apply liberally to freshly cleansed face once or twice a week. Leave for 10-15 minutes, allowing the activities to be fully absorbed, before washing off using a gentle massaging action.

£16.99 – available from Superdrug.

Repechage, Biolights

A Brightening Miracle Mask

This Miracle Mask uses innovative marine biotechnology and the latest in peptide research to help brighten and diminish the appearance of hyper-pigmentation due to the sun, acne scars and hormonal changes while enriching the skin with its added anti-ageing benefits.

Contains:

The unique formula is bursting with Laminaria complex.

• EcoCert laminaria digitata 
• Ascophyllum nodosum seaweeds - help to maintain the skin's barrier
• Liquorice root - to aid in skin brightening.
• Willow bark extract – renews the skin.
• Goto Kola – Strengthens the skin
• Clinically proven peptides 
• Glycolic acid - to exfoliate and reveal a luminous complexion full of renewed radiance!

How to use: After cleansing, apply mask evenly to entire facial area paying special attention to areas of concern. Allow mask to set for 7-10 minutes. Remove with warm water and then apply toner.

59g, RRP £34.50– available from www.repechageuk.com.

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Benefits of the dead sea

The Dead Sea is the world’s legendary natural spa! So why is not in all our beauty products?

The Dead Sea contains 26 essential minerals, twelve of which do not exist in any other sea or ocean in the world. These minerals are known to have unique qualities, for instance, giving a feeling of relaxation, nourishing the skin, activating the blood systems and healing rheumatic diseases & metabolic disorders. 

In addition, the natural minerals are essential for correct functioning of the human body and the different skin layers.  

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Beauty review: Summer Hair Care

Some Summer treats to keep your hair looking fab:

I love the look of my hair after being in the sea, the salt just works magic and gives me the perfect tousled look. I know there are a number of ' seasalt spray's' that suggest that they can create the same effect - so far I have not found one that can create the same look (sad face) anyway I have been testing:

Awapuhi Texturising Sea Spray by Paul Mitchell

Awapuhi Wild Ginger Texturizing Sea Spray^™ £18.95 RRP

With a strong scent of ginger, and with already wavy locks this beach sprays adds definition and texture so instead of crazy lion like hair, my hair is now more defined- not exactly like sea hair but still more definition is always a good look!

How To Use:

- Spray on liberally onto your newly washed hair, give it a bit of a towel dry first!
- Then tousle your hair with your finger (yes this is not magic spray, you do need to do some work!)
- Then you can air dry or if you are lucky enough to have a diffuser use that!
- For additional lift and definition, spray onto dry hair.


I have also been testing some more products from Paul Mitchell, Lemon Sage thickening Shampoo and Conditioner.

Tea Tree Lemon Sage Thickening Shampoo^™ £13.50 RRP

 

Explained as "Energising body builder" which in beauty terms I am guessing means 'lots of VOLUME'


So what do they contain?

- Unique thickening agents
- Natural extracts of uplifting lemon, soothing sage, tingly peppermint and tee tree oil.


But....the best bit about these products, has to be the lasting smell of lemon even my hairdresser commented on the luscious smell of these two beauts. (She comes to the house BTW - So much cheaper)It will definitely give you a great wakeup call and will invigorate your senses.



And to calm things off...

An instant calmer balm by Nicky Clarke, to sleek and soften your locks!

How To Use

- So when your hair is towel dried, start working the product through the palms of your hands
- Then distribute evenly through your hair with a comb
- Then blow dry to finish

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Top 10 summer fashion crimes

 Guest Post: Tips from Westfield London, stylist Anna Moore

A recent magazine interview with supermodel and style icon Kate Moss revealed her views on the way British women dress in the summer months. Referring to her opinion that we have a tendency to show too much flesh in the summer and should cover up, she said: “It’s not our natural thing, no. So it’s “put it away!” Considering that Towie’s Gemma Collins was this week spotted in Marbella wearing an unflattering swimsuit which was far too small for her curvy frame, maybe it’s time to take note of Kate’s advice and stop committing major summer style faux pas. With this in mind Westfield Stylist Anna Moore has put together a list of the top 10 summer fashion crimes (often committed by celebrities), to keep us in check and make sure our wardrobes are ready for whenever the British summer does decide to show its face.

Don’t show too much flesh 

It’s very tempting to want to strip down to your bare minimals and  get as much sun as possible, but be careful not over do it. In this case less is definitely not more and rather than going for the micro shorts or crop top, go for light breathable fabrics that are flattering for your shape. If you do want to show a bit more flesh then a a cute playsuit will keep you chic and classy.

Don’t do UGGS in the sun 

There’s nothing worse than wearing UGG boots in the blazing hot sun. It’s fair to say that the British weather is unpredictable but you’re more likely to need a pair of wellies than sheepskin boots. Celebrities like Pamela Anderson, Jordan and Chantelle Houghton have all been seen making this faux pas – don’t follow in their footsteps.

Don’t forget to have a pedicure

For most of the winter your feet are hidden away in your winter boots and have had no love, so it’s not surprising that when you put on your sandals for the first time, your feet may not be looking their best. Care should be taken year round to ensure your feet are in tip top condition by the summer, so getting a pedicure before you flash your toes is an absolute must. If visiting a salon is not within your budget then make time to do it yourself, in the comfort of your own home. Invest in some bright, bold summery nail varnish and a pedicure grooming kit to make sure your feet are as glam as the rest of you.  

Don’t do the VPL

The VPL (visible pantie line) is a frequent fashion crime, especially during the summer. This is usually because people  wear extremely tight clothes or the wrong underwear.  Westfield London stylist Anna Moore says ‘Black underwear under a white summer dress is the most common VPL faux pax people make. You assume that if you wear dark underwear no one will see it, but this actually gives the opposite effect.’ Go for skin coloured or nude underwear to blend in with your summer wardrobe and avoid wearing clothes that are too tight, as your knicker line will be the first thing people see.

Don’t forget supportive underwear

Wearing supportive underwear should never be a sacrifice to what you wear. Summer clothes are more likely to have thin spaghetti straps, halter necks or be completely strapless deterring you from wearing a bra.  Unless you really don’t need one, invest in a supportive strapless bra that you can wear with summer dresses and tank tops comfortably.

Don’t do the ‘unflattering swimwear’

Believe it or not, wearing any swimsuit or bikini that’s too small can actually make you look bigger than you are. Celebrities like Gemma Collins from Towie, Big Brother’s Josie Gibson and glamour model Katie Price have all been known to squeeze into unflattering swimwear which is never a good look. Your body shape may change year to year due to weight loss or gain, or pregnancy, so be sure to invest in swimwear that fits you and accentuates your assets rather than highlight your flaws. If you are not body confident enough to be seen in swimwear then invest in a beach dress, sarong, jumpsuit of kaftan to hide areas you’d rather not show.

Don’t wear clothes that don’t fit

It’s always a wonderful feeling to get your summer clothes out of storage but make sure that whatever goes back in your wardrobe still fits. You may sometimes be tempted to hold onto clothes you don’t wear anymore or worse still, try and squeeze into them. The denim shorts that once fitted like a glove, that you had for years may now be snug, so it’s always a good idea to invest in a few key pieces you wear often. When it comes to women’s fashion, there are always new summer trends that come in which may be perfect for your style and shape, so it’s useful to update your wardrobe every summer to keep in the loop of seasonal style.

Don’t forget to wax!

We've all done it - missed that overdue session due to busy schedules and not needing to as much in the winter. Hair removal up keep is an absolute must, especially in the summer as there's nothing worse than unwanted hair poking through your summer outfit. Bikini waxes and leg waxes are just as important as each other and don't forget under the arms! Some people may not be able to handle the pain of waxing or may even be allergic, but there are other hair removal options such as shaving, threading or laser treatment.

Don’t overdo the fake tan 

The tendency to go a bit mad with the spray tan bottle as soon as we hear the word ‘summer’ is very tantalizing but can get you into trouble if you’re not careful. Instead of trying to go for the darkest colour possible, consider your natural skin tone, eye colour and make up to determine what the most natural tone would be for you. If you are going to do it yourself avoid going for the all over streaky look by wearing a tanning mitt, which will give you a more even colour.

Don’t overdo the beach make-up 
Wearing make up on the beach isn’t probably best for your skin but if still you feel you need it, go for a light base, waterproof mascara and lots of sun block. If you would rather not be seen without make up, there are other ways to conceal your face. Westfield’s Anna Moore says ‘large floppy hats and bright shades are a great way to look stylish on the beach, but also to protect your eyes and skin with sunglasses and factor 50.

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Get The Look: Kim Kardashian

Get Kim Kardashian's fantastic look with this figure hugging, optical illusion dress from: GetTheLabel

The Clubl Slimming Body Con Dress is £14.99

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Check out Hevea!

Sponsored Post

 

I find it so hard to buy for babies and new mothers but this new brand ‘Hevea’ is so cute and helps the environment too with the prestigious Blue Butterfly Mark to their name, proving you can have luxury and be environmentally responsible, so what more could you want? 

Hevea has a long list of celebrity fans, including, Miranda Kerr and Orlando Bloom, Alicia Keys, Jessica Alba and Evengeline Lilly who have all been snapped choosing Hevea to comfort their babies. If there was a 'Get The Look' for a baby, Hevea would definitely be taking centre stage!

Check out these little cuties from Hevea :

Comforting pacifiers, from £5.99

These funky bath toys start at £19.99 for The Pond Collection, and £24.99 for Alfie the giant rubber duck!

Award winning Panda Teether, £9.99 and £1 from sales go to WWF

Clip-on pacifier holders keep both the pacifier and Panda off the floor for only £9.99

The Hevea products are all gift wrapped in Hevea's cute signature, eco friendly packaging :-)

*All made from sustainably sourced 100% natural rubber – biodegradable; accessories are made from GOTS certified 100% organic cot-tons; free from BPA, PVC, phthalates or synthetic colours; print-ing is in vegetable inks; packaging is made from recycled and recyclable and FSC certified papers. Hevea’s unique hygienicone-piece design means no perforations for bacteria to ac-cumulate. The nature of Hevea’s natural rubber is tactile and encourages early learning skills. All products are designed and manufactured to the highest safety standards.

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Dinner @ The New Tuttons

Tuttons in covent gardenre-opens its doors after multi-million pound makeover

I usually don't eat in Covent Garden unless I am taking one of the family out for a 'Tourist' meal, so I was excited to hear that Tuttons on Covent Garden Piazza, had re-opened  with a brand new look and an exciting English-accented menu to create somewhere Covent Garden can be proud of and not just a tourist pit stop.

The new menu draws its inspiration from traditional British ingredients such as pressed Sussex ham hock, Yorkshire black pudding, Shetland mussels and Kentish raspberry cheesecake.

So straight away I got on the bubbles (Nyetimber classic cuvée, West sussex 2007) after looking over an impressive array of wines from around the world I was surprised to see the Cuvée was produced in West Sussex it was light, fresh and a very good wine!

The Menu

In addition to Tuttons’ celebrated grill selection, including its 28-day hung steaks and popular Cote de Boeuf, some of the new dishes included:

(We had a taster plate and tried the four starters and the four deserts, I have starred my fave's. For my main meal I had the classic steak and chips with peppercorn sauce which you can see below - so tender and delicious!)

Starters

• Lancashire roasted beets with goats cheese and beetroot mousse
• Pressed Sussex ham hock with mustard piccalilli and soda bread*
• Tuttons cured salmon, fennel, smoked caviar
• Honey rolled beef carpaccio

Mains

• Pan fried sea bass, linguini of vegetables with mussel, clam and saffron bouillabaisse
• Wicks Manor braised belly of pork, caramelised Razor Russet apple with a warm puy lentil and red chard salad
• Fillet steak (Rare!) with peppercorn sauce and matchstick chips

Desserts

• Rhubarb & custard tart with a ginger and vanilla Chantilly cream
• Summer pudding trifle with seasonal berries and creamed custard*
• Kentish raspberry cheesecake
• Dark and white chocolate brownie

So Tuttons definitley gets a 5* star rating from us, with it's fresh, modern new look and fantastic new menu, T2G look forward to returning!

And after you have had a bite to eat you can head down below to Dirty Martini for a cocktail or two!

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