• Beauty chat with make up artist; Katie Moore •

I'm very privileged to be friends with a real make-up artist: Katie Moore has studied Make-up Artistry at the University of Salford; she 

was flown out to Tokyo to complete her diploma in 

Japanese make up; and she has lots of product 

recommendations to share with us.

So of course, when I had the idea to interview her, I messaged her right away. I've always been interested in make up artistry and I thought who better to interview than Katie?! She clearly knows her stuff and I mean, just look at her - she's stunning. I hope you enjoy this informative yet laid back chat about all things beauty.

Daniela: Let's start off with what are the most used products in your kit?

Katie: I'm going to give away a secret here, my absolute favourite product that I use on almost all of my clients is a pressed pigment by Illamasqua called 'Slink'. This eyeshadow is around £15 and I use it as a highlighter. I used to swear by cream highlighters to achieve that real dewy glow but this product is by far my favourite alternative. In terms of foundation my most used is probably Face and Body by MAC, which gives a sheer coverage. Generally I love light, flawless bases and prefer to start with just a little product and build it up or mix where necessary.

D: Amazing tip, I love using products for multiple purposes! Do you generally tend to use higher end make up on your clients then?

K: The majority of my kit consists of high end brands, but don't get me wrong I love a bargain! There are several high street brands which are closely comparable to their luxury competitors, such as Sleek, available in Superdrug, which offers lipsticks that are (in my opinion!) almost identical to Illamasqua's in terms of texture, pigment and longevity. However, I see my kit as an investment and know that my clients expect the best, so I'd never compromise on quality purely for a more attractive price tag!

D: I love Sleek, too! I have a lipstick in 'Barely There' which I've been reaching for loads lately. Since we're talking about drugstore, what are your top 5 favourite high street brands, products and shades?

K: They're amazing for the price! Sleek's lipstick in 'Coral Reef' is my personal favourite. I've decanted all of mine into palettes for ease of use when I'm working, and if they weren't labelled I genuinely wouldn't be able to tell Sleek from the luxury brands! Another product I love is Topshop's powder highlighter in Crescent Moon which is very similar to MAC's Soft and Gentle. As you can tell I'm constantly comparing to ensure that all of my products are of the same standard! Barry M lip liners are really great too, of course the colour range isn't as varied as a lot of other brands but for a cheaper alternative I'd definitely recommend them. I'm going to have to say Sleek again! Their powder eyeshadows are incredible value and, again, so pigmented. Palettes are less than a tenner and there are plenty of colour options; the only downside is that you can't choose individual pans so often double up on similar shades. Top of my hughstreet list and a personal love of mine is Maxfactor 2000 Calorie mascara, which I've used myself for around 8 years. I've tried MAC, Illamasqua, Benefit, Bobbi Brown (the list goes on...) and have never found one that works for me quite like Maxfactor does!

D: Have you tried the Maxfactor Masterpiece mascara? I used to use it in my teens and I really recommend it! What are your top 5 favourite high end brands and products?

K: To be honest I never properly explored Maxfactor but now I feel the need! I'll definitely give that a try. Another brand that I love is Lime Crime, which isn't as readily available in the UK as I'd like it to be, but their Velvetines are literally amazing. I love Suedeberry which is a bright, deep orange and it stays put for longer than any lip product I've ever tried. Lots of other brands are now bringing out matte liquid lipsticks after Lime Crime's success and I look forward to testing those out, too. Smashbox Photo Finish primer is a must have for anyone with large pores or those needed to smooth their skin before foundation. It's really long-lasting and one of the best primers I've used. I also love Illamasqua's fine pencil in Peace. In my experience it's difficult to find drugstore brow pencils that don't have that orangey undertone, but this one is a true ashy brown that can be applied lightly or with pressure to match a range of hair colours. A recent find that's become one of my essentials is Inglot HD Illuminizing Loose Powder. It's perfect for those with oily and combination skin who need to set their make up but want to maintain the dewiness, as it works like a normal powder but is ever so slightly shimmery and so never appears too matte or cake. Now for my all time favourite dream of a product: Georgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation. This is actually heaven in a bottle, and for around £40, quite right too! The coverage is medium yet buildable, the finish is on par with airbrush make up and it's just a wonderful product to use. For me this is a prime example of 'you get what you pay for'.

D: I've heard incredible things about the Armani Luminous Silk foundation, the L'Oreal True Match is meant to be a dupe - I've got that and I love it! Have you found any dupes along the way?

K: Oh dupes are the best! Along with the Sleek/Illamasqua lipsticks, Sleek also do a cream pigment called Molten Metals, whereas Illamasqua have their Liquid Metals and the two are almost identical. I'm beginning to think these brands are linked in fact!

D: I love dupes, I'm a bit of a bargain hunter! Ok down to the nitty gritty...your pet peeves when it comes to make up? For me, it's awful brows - it sounds terrible, but it really annoys me!

K: Ah you've taken my main one! I'm awful for scrutinising brows and I LOVE correcting them. Most of us over-plucked in our younger days and some (mind included) never fully recovered! Overly thin or heavily drawn on brows can be detrimental to a make up look so it's important to keep them on point. Also false lashes that are too wide for the eye and hang off the outer corner making eyes appear droopy. It's such a simple mistake that can easily be rectified by measuring the falsies on the lid before application and cutting to size.

D: I'll need you to correct mine, please! I have gaps and scars and all sorts going on. Are there any tips you'd give to people just starting off with make up? And what would you recommend to people product-wise to start off their make up collection?

K: I love your brows, they're so beautifully full! I'd say the most important thing is to know your face. Know your features, know your skin and learn what suits you. Experimentation is key, try all the products you can get your hands on! Skincare and foundation are the basic essentials, as once you've perfected these your base will always look flawless. I think even as a beginner it's important to be adventurous with products like lipstick and eyeshadow, as it's easy to get stuck in your comfort zone, so invest in a few and explore your options.

D: Aw, thank you beaut! And that's such great advice. It's definitely important to know your skin - for years I was using products for oily skin, when actually I have combination skin - not good! What about brushes, which ones would you recommend? The age old debate: do you believe in investing in great tools or is it more about the products?

K: I did exactly the same! Understanding your skin type will allow you to select suitable products a lot more easily and will determine how flawless your finish is too. If you're unsure you can visit any quality counter and they should be able to give you some helpful tips. Ahh, now I am a firm believer of quality tools creating quality results. Substandard brushes are like using a blunt knife to cut your vegetables; you'll get the job done but with a lot more effort and the outcome may not be the greatest! Of course the right products are crucial as well, but decent brushes make my job an awful lot easier! I would recommend MAC very highly, as their range is vast and will last you for years if cared for correctly. Illamasqua's are great, too - they're all synthetic hair which is becoming very popular, however I often find that real hair brushes pick up product easier so it's worth exploring different ranges.

D: I love the comparison with the vegetable knife! I agree with you, I only really use Real Techniques brushes - amazing quality and they don't break the bank. So in your opinion, when it comes to make up trends, do you tend to follow them? I know that orange lips, big brows and hair chalk are in at the moment, so would you use these trends when working on your clients?

K: Real Techniques are great, the only problem for me is that the handles are too thick to fit in my brush belt! I actually tweeted Sam Chapman about it but it didn't seem as if this was likely to change! They're perfect for standing up on your dressing table, though. In the industry I'm in I have to be up to date with the trends. For shoots I usually have a brief to follow and although I often have creative input, the looks are regularly tailored to fit what's popular as that's what gets published. Saying that, I also love to stray away from the norm when possible and just go wild with whatever fits the concept I'm working with. Overall it's important to be 'in the know' but also to break the rules and be adventurous with colours and products.

D: Great advice - I think trends can sometimes be taken too literally, when they should also just be used as inspiration. So what made you want to go into the make up industry?

K: Definitely! It would be boring if everyone stuck with the same look - trying things is how new trends are born. Well from a young age I have worn make up (looking back, perhaps too young!) and it has always fascinated me in its ability to enhance and beautify a face. I did a lot of research into the industry - I used to think it was more of a hobby then a career but I couldn't have been more wrong! As soon as I realised the opportunities that exist for MUA's I knew it was for me. That cliche saying 'find a job and you'll never work a day in your life' has become so relevant, and I feel blessed to have found a profession that is so rewarding.

D: I also wore make up from a young age, too; I've always loved it! What sort of opportunities have you been involved in?

K: Girls seem to be growing up a lot faster these days, I've been getting booked for secondary school proms! I've been able to work alongside some very influential industry professionals which has been so inspiring for me. An amazing team creates the best results so I'm really thankful for those opportunities. I was also lucky enough to receive a funded trip to Tokyo in order to complete a diploma in Japanese make up which was such an incredible experience. The course itself was extremely eye opening and I learnt many valuable skills.

Left - model: Nicky Dixon, make up: Katie Moore, hair: Kevin Luchman & Jessica Doolin, stylist: Steve Doan, photographer: Danny Baldwin

Right - model: Nic Richardson, make up: Katie Moore, photographer: Lauren Danks

D: Wow that sounds incredible, what a wonderful opportunity! So did you study make up artistry straight after you did your A levels? Can you tell me a bit about your journey, as such, and any advice you'd give to people wanting to enter the MUA career path?

K: Indeed, I'm so thankful! Well to be honest initially I wasn't aware you could study make up (I still get funny looks when I tell people I have a degree in it!). Originally I applied to do criminology but as soon as I found out you could study to be an MUA I rejected my offers, took a gap year and reapplied to study my real passion - best decision ever! In those three years of study I have learnt a ridiculous amount not only about make up application, but also the industry itself and becoming self-employed. That knowledge has been invaluable. My advice to aspiring make up artists would be to gain the knowledge necessary and throw yourself straight in. Accept all shoots your offered and never decline a job because of nerves or lack of confidence. In my experience this was the only way to truly overcome any apprehensions and reach the level you need to be at. Once you're more established you can be selective with work and really start to be build an impressive portfolio.

D: That's excellent advice. I think it's important to have a great work ethic, and it's clear that you really do! What would you consider the best and worst bit about your job?

K: Thank you so much, I strongly believe that you get out what you put in - you're the only one who can make yourself a success. Oh wow thats the hardest question, I love so many elements it's almost impossible to choose! I suppose the worst part is having to chase up invoices, I work with different clients all the time and so it's difficult to keep on top of those who aren't as organised! One of my best parts is having my work published, I think that will always be one of the most rewarding feelings. I haven't quite made it to Vogue yet but who knows, maybe one day! The moment when a model steps out on stage after a mad rush behind the scenes - that's another favourite. A mixture of pride, excitement... relief! I love that, too.

D: Lastly (and just so I can basically copy you...), which make up look would you be seen wearing on a night out? Would this differ from your every day make up?

K: On an evening out I tend to choose my make up colours and then my outfit, which is why I usually end up wearing black! The rule about opting for either eyes or lips to focus on goes out of the window for me, as it's my platform to be much more daring with colour than I would be in the day. My daytime look usually consists of a soft brown smokey eye as it complements most lip colours which I vary from day to day. I love to let my skin breath on my days off but only because it means I don't have to spend so much time cleansing, toning and moisturising!

I really hope you enjoyed this interview. It's probably the most excited I've ever been about a blog post - I absolutely love writing reviews, sharing my tips and showing you my hauls, but to have a real make-up artist here on my blog means so much to me. If you'd like to follow Katie on Twitter, you can do so here, and the link to her website is www.katiemooremua.co.uk (I really recommend heading over to her 'Portfolio' page - that girl is talented!)

Let me know what you think of this post & if you'd like to

 see Katie back here for another interview! I, for one,

am so intrigued about make-up artistry and 

I could spend hours chatting about it!

Daniela xo

• Sephora Canada beauty haul •

So I'm freaking out a little bit that I've finally got a Tarte blush...

If you feel my pain that Tarte aren't really accessible in the UK, you'll understand my joy (you can buy Tarte from QVC but their range is limited and massively overpriced in comparison to Sephora in other countries). So when my boyfriend's sister bought me back a little bag of goodies from her Canada trip, I was so incredibly excited to find these three beauts in there.

I have had a little play with the products but I haven't tested them out long enough to give a full review, but when I've tried them out for a little longer I will definitely be writing about my thoughts on them - spoiler alert, it will be a very positive post.

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush in 'Natural Beauty'

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee in 'Pink Escape'

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in 'Milk'

Have you tried any of these products out?

I'd love to know what you think of them!

I'll be writing reviews for each product over the next few weeks.

Daniela xo

• Summer Date Night Get Ready With Me // Face of the Day •

A quick, simple look, perfect for an evening of
 sushi eating and green tea drinking.

I went on an impromptu date night the other night and had a bit of time to do my make up. I went for a little winged liner and pink lips, and tried out a few bits that I've picked up recently; the L'Oreal Eau de Teint which is amazing (I reviewed it here) and the L'Oreal L'Extraordinaire Liquid Lipstick in 201 'Rose Symphony' which survived an evening of talking, drinking and eating, and did not smudge once! Cue the naked face -

I always start with my base and I dotted the foundation onto my skin, then blended it in using a buffing brush. I bronzed my face up, skipping the contour, by placing it on my cheekbones, around my hairline and over the bridge of my nose. Then I highlighted using a cream highlighter and my ring finger, blending it on top of my cheekbones, the tip bridge and tip of my nose, and cupids bow. A girl's gotta have her brows! So I filled them in lightly using a dark eyebrow pencil - I always start by filling in the gaps then shaping the front of them. I went for a champagne cream eyeshadow as a base to lighten up the eyes and give a little sheen, then use a champagne colour on top to intensify it. I also popped this into the inner corners of my eyes to brighten them up, too. To further brighten up my eyes, concealing under my eyes was next, using a liquid and medium/full coverage concealer. I then used a realllllly thin eyeliner to create a teeny tiny wing on my eyes and applied one layer of mascara (with a funky wand) after curling my eyelashes with an eyelash curler. Lip scrub was then used to scrub away any dead skin and create a smooth canvas for my lipstick, which was a really pigmented pink liquid lipstick.

I used:

L'Oreal Eau de Teint Foundation in 'Warm Ivory' // review here

Real Techniques Buffing Brush

Benefit Hoola Bronzer

Real Techniques Contour Brush

Benefit Watts Up Highlighter

Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil in 'Black Brown'

Benefit Cream Eyeshadow in 'Bikini-tini'

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in 'Sin'

Ecotools Eyeshadow Brush

Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer in 51 'Eclat Clair'

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner

L'Oreal Superliner

Accessorize Paradise Eye Mascara

LUSH Lip Scrub in 'Bubblegum'

L'Oreal L'Extraordinaire Liquid Lipstick in 201 'Rose Symphony'

Have you picked up any of these products lately?

What do you think of the format of this post?

It's quite new to me, I would so love some feedback :)

Daniela xo

• New clothes! // H&M, Topshop, New Look & Primark haul •

More often than not I go shopping with the intention of buying clothes, then come back with a rather large bag full of Boots goodies... but on this particular day I walked away with one casual outfit, 

one work outfit and one loungey outfit. 

So naturally, I decided to come home, throw them all on and snap some photos. This is my first outfit post, so I hope it's okay. It was nerve wracking at first, but I had to keep telling myself 'no-one will be looking at you, just at the clothes!' and you can see how much I relaxed when it came to the third outfit! Hope you enjoy :)

The 'Mom' Jean

Top - Topshop; Kimono - New Look; 'Mom' Jeans - Topshop; 

Sandals - Topshop; Necklace - Tiffanys *not new*; Ring - Tiffanys *not new*; 

Bracelet - Pandora

Fitted Florals

Top - New Look; Trousers - H&M; Shoes - Topshop *not new*;

Ring - Tiffanys *not new*; Bracelet - Pandora

Maxin'
Top - New Look; Skirt - Primark; Shoes - Primark *not new*
Ring - Tiffanys *not new*; Bracelet - Pandora; Lipstick - Revlon Matte Balm Audacious

Have you picked anything up recently?
Daniela xo

• How to survive your PGCE year // 10 tips and tricks •

Growing up is stressful. Being an adult is stressful. Life is stressful.

But life is also beautiful. And perhaps it's due to the opportunities I've had, or the support I've received, I'm fulfilling my dream of becoming a primary school teacher. That's not to say that my PGCE year was a walk in the park (by any stretch of the imagination) but now that I've come out the other side of it alive, I think I can provide a fair few tips and tricks for how to survive it. Please note that I completed my Primary PGCE, so I can't talk much about Secondary. And if you didn't know, PGCE means Post Graduate Certificate in Education :)

1. Know your stuff beforehand
Any issues in education, any curriculum changes, the structure of the school day, the OFSTED report of any schools that you may be training in; anything, really. I can't even tell you how much you will learn during your PGCE year, so it's best to start before the course and brush up on any education-related issues so you don't have to worry about that when you first start. It goes without saying that issues in education change all the time, so obviously you'll have to keep up to date with things throughout the year, but it's a great idea to have some baseline knowledge for when you start. Alongside this, download the BBC News app on your phone or iPad, and always check the 'Education' part of it - there's loads of current information on there. There are also websites such as the Guardian and TES that provide info, too.

2. Stock up on stationary
This may sound stupid, I know, but never, and I mean never, underestimate how many folders you will need and how many pens you will lose. Throughout the year, I used up 11 large folders and lost too many biro's to count. It's worth taking a trip to Staples and picking up some bits - here is a list that I would start off with: a diary with enough room to write which lessons you're teaching and extra-curricular for every day; 3 folders; 2 packets of plastic wallets; a pack of 12 subject dividers; a packet of 12 black biros; a packet of 12 green biros; a set of 3 highlighter pens; a pack of 3 pencils; a clear pencil case; a large stack of post it notes; a USB memory stick; a hole-puncher; and a stapler. This may sound like a lot, but I can pretty much assure you that you'll be back at Staples again at least once more during the year.

3. Never miss a day off school (unless you really really have to)
Children like consistency - heck, I think we all like consistency. So why rock the boat by having a day off? Obviously if you're really very ill, suffering from a bereavement or have a job interview, then it's a very different kettle of fish. What I'm trying to say here is that 'pulling a sicky' or 'needing a rest day' is just no excuse for missing a day of school. Children change so much, and something new happens every single day, so the next time you go in, you'll have missed out on it. Plus - the whole point of training is because you love being in the classroom and love teaching kids - so why wouldn't you want to go in? My lecturer told us a story of when she was so ill that she lost her voice and was so achey that she had to teach sitting down. She was silent throughout the whole lesson but just used her Interactive Whiteboard and notecards to teach the children. Her argument was why should the children suffer just because I was a little bit sniffly?! That always stuck with me, and I wholeheartedly agree.

4. Be the 'YES man'
Quite literally, say yes to everything. Realistically, you will be shattered, you will be crawling to bed at the first opportunity and you will be working weekends - but if someone asks you to help them write a few reports, or to assess a piece of work, then just say yes. This whole year is to benefit you and no-one else. You signed on to the course for you and no-one else. So if someone offers you the opportunity to learn something new or brush up on your skills, then go for it. It may add another half an hour or even an hour onto your day, you may be even more tired and not have an evening to yourself, but you have to remember that with the amount that there is to learn, you need to grab every opportunity that you can.

5. Grab your lunch breaks
I got into a really terrible habit at the start of the course of not eating my lunch and working through my breaks. I lost quite a bit of weight and was constantly tired (even more tired than I otherwise would have been) which was absolutely no good for my health, or good for my learning. I can't stress enough how important it is to have some time, even 5-10 minutes, to gobble down some salad or a sandwich. What I did was bring my lunch into the classroom - which is terribly unsociable, but it was the only way - and eat whilst I was marking or setting up my laptop. You feel productive because you've got stuff done, and it's good for you to eat your lunch. I need to also add that what you eat is so important, too. Chocolate bars may seem tempting for that quick burst of energy, but bananas are more effective. Pre-made, shop-bought salads may seem really appealing, but home-made salads are healthier and cheaper. As I mentioned above, you won't get as much sleep as you're used to, so you may as well add on another 10 minutes to your evening to prepare yourself lunch for the next day.

6. Show off your creativity
My lovely mentor in my second placement always encouraged me to be brave and try something different with the children. She was always urging me to plan lessons which I could teach outside, and to put the books away for the lesson, and just teach the children without making them write. At first, I was nervous and sceptical, thinking 'how on Earth am I going to assess them if they've not written in their books?!?' but honestly, children learn so much better when they're doing things as opposed to writing things. In terms of lesson ideas being creative, why not throw some Art in with the Maths? Why not give the children chalk on the playground and ask them to draw 3 ladybirds X 4 ladybirds? You'll be amazed at what sticks in children's brains, and it might just be these lessons that just synch the learning and consolidation from the previous lessons.

7. Get some exercise
I'm not an exerciser, no way - I'll blame it on the mild asthma, but I cannot run or even jog for that matter. What I can do, however, is walk. There are so many benefits to walking, but the main one I'm interested in is de-stressing. Walking relaxes me and I love just popping on a pair of trainers and wandering out the door, with no clue where I'm going or which direction I'm going to take. Throughout the whole year, I have always taken at least 3 evenings out of my week to go on walks, whether that be for 10 minutes or 30, alone or with someone else, and it has worked wonders. If I've had a bad day (and we all have them, in any job we do), it chills me out and takes my mind off of things - alternatively, it makes me think of things in a different, more positive light. (More often than not, though, I think of a great teaching idea when I'm walking, so I always bring my phone so I can make a note!). You may find that running, jogging, gymming or exercise classes work for you, but whichever you do, make sure you find time to fit them in. It is easy to forget about your health when you're trying so hard in a different aspect of your life, but if you're too stressed, that comes across in your teaching, and can stop you from working to your full potential.

8. Change up your radio station
Secrets out - I listen to Classic FM. At the weekends, I'm a Radio 1-er, but during the week, on those early morning drives, I'm a total Classic FM convert. Something about the classical music just relaxes me and prepares me for the day. When the music has no words, there's nothing to sing along to, so your mind can stay as blank as you'd like it to be (whilst paying attention on the road and being a safe driver, of course!). It sounds silly, I know, and my friends always get a little shock when they turn my radio on to find opera music playing, but if it helps me, then it helps me.

9. Keep your chocolate drawer well stocked
When I was a trainee, my chocolate drawer was at home in my bed side table, but as a teacher, I now have one in my classroom. I mentioned above that it's important to stay healthy and eat fruit, salads etc - but it's also important to keep your sanity by treating yourself every once in a while. A little bar of chocolate never hurt nobody, and it's something to look forward to when you're feeling a bit down. One of my leaving presents from my final placement was a box full of chocolate bars and I was told to never run out of chocolate bars, and if my mentor told me this, surely I have to comply...

10. Never lose sight of why you're on the course
Lastly, and most importantly, never lose sight of why you're on the course. As soon as your start to think to yourself 'I just don't want to be here', you need to recognise that things have to change, whether that be your attitude, your hobbies, your stress-management or the way you look at things. Whatever your reasons for signing up to the course, there are children in schools that deserve your enthusiasm, encouragement and skills. They are the reason you're on the course. Their love of learning and excitement for the school day is the reason you turn up. The 'light bulb moments' that are very real, and very rewarding, are why you spend your evenings and weekends planning and marking. So whenever you're feeling a bit down, or a bit rough, or a bit tired, just think to yourself 'no-one else in any other job has 30 children looking up at them, relying on them and wanting them to teach them something new. No-one else in any other job has 30 children with amazing ideas, eagerly wishing to spill them onto a page to impress you and make you proud. No-one else in any other job has 30 children that look up to you, make you laugh, are innocent and lovely, and are so eager to explore'. 

I really hope this post helped you. I've had quite a few questions on twitter about my experience with my PGCE and my experience now as a teacher, so I thought I'd write a quick post with 10 tips. I'm starting my NQT (Newly Qualified Teacher) year in September and I could not be more excited. I'm working in my dream school with some great staff and lovely children, I feel very supported by the staff and my family and friends, and I can't wait to start teaching. The PGCE year is hard, but there is light at the end of the tunnel, and I honestly can't think of anything else I'd rather do in life - as cheesy as it sounds, I think teaching is the most amazing job and if you're seriously thinking of going for it, then just apply for a place on a PGCE. It was the toughest year of my life so far, I'll be honest and say I found a lot of it quite difficult, there were some rough patches but every single day, no matter how bad my day was, I felt so grateful and it felt so rewarding that I'd helped a child to learn that day. I can't even explain it - it's a great feeling.

If you have any questions, or would like some advice, please tweet me @danielascribbs

or email me on dannidiraimo@gmail.com and I'd be so happy to help.

I'm no expert, but I've been there, done that, got the t-shirt, 

so if I can help you, I'll definitely try.

Daniela xo

• July lusting // August wish list •

I've noticed a running theme to this month's lusting: glow. And lots of it. I'm on a quest to find the perfect products to highlight my face and leave a dewy sheen, so I've opted for some items that promise to do just that. And look how pretty all of the packaging looks on this photo - that was unintentional, but works so well! If you'd like to see what I was lusting over last month, you can check out the post here.

1. L'Oreal Lumi Magique Concealer
Currently £8.49 from Boots, click here to be directed to the site.
I'm absolutely loving L'Oreal lately and I'm slowly but surely making my way through their products. This highlighter/concealer pen really intrigues me as I used to used the YSL Touche Eclat in my teenage days (plastering on the stuff thinking it was meant to be concealer) and this pen has been likened to it. Lately I've not been concealing under my eyes as (praise the Lord) I've been getting lots of sleep, so something with a light coverage and light-reflecting properties sounds perfect for me at the moment.

2. Zoeva Rose Golden Luxury Brush Set
Currently £49 from the Zoeva website, click here to be directed to the site.
First, the rose gold on the brushes. Let's just take a moment to appreciate that. Aside from the gorgeous detailing, Zoeva brushes on the whole have been raved about by the beauty community for so long. The quality of these brushes seem fantastic and for £49 you get 8 brushes and a bag, which is incredible. I love that the set comes with a range of face brushes to eye brushes, and they're all labelled, too. It just seems like the perfect brush set, especially when you've had your Real Techniques set for well over a year (don't judge me...)

3. Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
Currently £5.55 from Amazon, click here to be directed to the site.
I'm always looking for a top coat that will give me shiny nails with minimal chippage - aren't we all? I usually pick up cheapy ones from Boots when they're on offer, but nothing seems to be cutting it at the moment. I've read up on so many reviews of Seche Vite and I'll be honest, they were very mixed, but I'm keen to try it myself. Anything that will keep my nails looking perfect for more than 3 days is a God send to me! Plus it's on sale on Amazon at the moment - it would be rude not to...

4. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
Currently £70 from Charlotte Tilbury.com, click here to be directed to the site.
Every single time Wayne Goss puts this cream on his face, he glows. Simple. I'm not sure what it is about this moisturiser, but it does something magical to his face. It contains some amazing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, rose hip oil, camelia oil and vitamin E, and it sounds so luxurious. Charlotte Tilbury's brand in general is the epitome of luxury, and I'm so tempted to buy myself a pot of this and see how I get on. My reasoning behind the expense is that I don't drink, therefore save money at the weekends, so £70 on a pot of magic is, in my eyes, justified!

5. MAC Creme in Your Coffee Lipstick
Currently £15.50 from MAC, click here to be directed to the site.
The whole 90's look is back, which excites me a lot. Nudey/browny/beigey lipsticks have completely made a come back and this shade is perfectly on trend at the moment. Creme in Your Coffee is a really lovely brown/nude which is quite a lot darker than my lips, but can be sheered out as more of a stain. I've swatched it in the store countless times but I've never taken the plunge as it's not a colour I'd usually go for - although now, as luck would have it, I can't stop thinking about it and feel like I need it in my life! MAC lipsticks are a real treat as I'm usually more of a drugstore lippy kinda gal, but I've never been more excited for a lipstick than I am now for this one.

6. Topshop Glow Highlighter in Polish
Currently £9 from Topshop, click here to be directed to the site.
I remember being at university and using some of this from my friend's tub, and absolutely loving it. Topshop make up is very impressive and this is one of their best products, in my opinion. It's a really creamy highlighter that doesn't smudge or ruin base make up and leaves a stunning sheen on the skin. It is quite pigmented, so you have to use it with a light hand, and a little goes a long way - I can see myself getting a tub of this and it lasting me a good while! At the time, I used it with my fingers and that worked brilliantly, but I'd also be tempted to try it with a stippling brush. The colour of this is very similar to MAC's Vanilla pigment, a really pearly, iridescent white.

I love each of these picks! I've been wanting them for such
a long time, so I think I'm due a splurge...

Have you tried any of these products?

Daniela xo