New(ish) KIKO Purchases and Review

So, I am finally back. After a long and stressful couple of weeks, crammed with revision, cups of tea and lack of sleep, I have finally finished my A Level exams! I am so happy that I have finally finished as I was starting to go a little bit crazy sitting at my desk and revising the same topic day and night. As exams are out of the way, I can now focus on my blog and writing content for you guys to enjoy!

I will admit, I did finish my exams about a week ago now (17th June), but I thought my brain deserved a bit of a break from formulating sentences and words and also it gave me a opportunity to think of some new blog ideas and topics to write about.

This blog post is particularly late as I haven't had time to take the pictures etc, but before exams started I went on a little shopping trip and popped into a KIKO store they had there. I don't have a KIKO store near where I live, so I get very excited when I find one. It has such affordable make-up and the quality is amazing.

While, I was there I picked up two make-up items.

Eyeshadow Stick - £6.90
Lip Pencil - £1.70

I picked up the Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadow in 07 (Golden Beige) which is a really gorgeous champagne colour. It is super pigmented and as the name suggests is super 'long lasting'. This shadow is great for all over the lid and blends really nicely as well. Personally, I hate doing eyeshadow. I find it is the most boring part of doing make-up, purely because I can't do a 'smokey' eye to save my life. However, these shadow sticks are so easy to use and make doing your shadow hassle-free. This shade is perfect for the summer season and is adaptable for all other seasons as well.

My other purchase was a SMART Lip Pencil in 702 (Coral). Again, this lip liner is super pigmented and lasts for a long, long time. This shade is a pinky/coral colour and is beautiful for the summer time. You can apply it with a gentle hand for a more subtle pink to the lips or you can press harder for a more bolder and brighter lip colour. As well as being amazing quality, all KIKO's lip pencils are super affordable at only £1.70!!

I hope you enjoyed this blog post and let me know what your favourite make-up item from KIKO is and if there are any recommendations I should try out. 

Also, there are going to be new blog posts every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, so please keep an eye out for those and follow me on BlogLovin' to keep up to date with when I upload new posts. 

LIFE UPDATE!

So, I haven't written a blog post in a while, and for that I apologise! I am going to be frank. I don't think I will be writing any blog posts for a while. Don't panic though, I am not quitting my blog at all. The main reason for not writing any posts for a while is because my A2 exams are coming up in a matter of weeks and I need to prepare and revise for these exams so much, and that means no blog posts. These exams are important as they determine whether I get into my first choice university and what direction my life takes (slight exaggeration!), so I don't really want to mess them up!

Source: authorlindsaypaige.blogspot.com

I will be resuming my blog after exams though and as I won't have anything else to do, this will be my main priority, so hopefully, I will have many more posts to write and will have much longer to take pictures, come up with new, fresh ideas and take my time writing them as well. My last exam is on the 17th June, so expect to see many more posts being uploaded then.

Apart from exams, I have lots of other bits planned for the summer so far, so I thought I would share them with you. Next week is my official last week of secondary school and I go on study leave. It is super scary to think that I will be leaving mainstream education after nearly my entire life has been the same routine of going to school. I will be leaving behind my school of 7 years, where I have had the most memories, met amazing friends (who hopefully will stay with me for a very long time!) but also has been very stressful at times as well. So, next week we get to dress up for two days with a dedicated theme. On Monday, the theme is 90s rave, but I am so undecided about what to wear, so if you have any suggestions, please leave them in the comments, and on Friday, the theme is cops and robbers. I still have to attend revision classes that may be put on and obviously my exams, but after that I am free.

I haven't mentioned this on my blog, but I have decided to take a gap year between A-Levels and University. This was an easy decision for me and I have made this choice for a very long time. Both of my elder brothers took gap years, one of them went travelling and the other worked, and so I wanted to do the same. I will most likely work during my gap year as university is so expensive and so I want to save as much money as possible, for rent, food, social life etc. This will also give me plenty of time to get myself together in terms of provisions for uni as well. I also wanted to take a gap year to give myself a breather from education for a year. I have been constantly going to school all my life virtually and this is the first time I get to relax and not have to study or write essays.

I have made a few plans for over the summer though which are making me very excited and makes me want exams to be over soon. This weekend is one of my friend's 18th so I am going to her house for a BBQ which will be really nice. Next Friday, it is also my best friend's joint 18th birthday party which is going to be so much fun and I am super excited for this. I haven't got anything planned for half term yet, which will probably be spent revising for these exams, which is so depressing, especially if it is nice weather in the UK.

Other plans consist of a wedding in July, more gatherings with friends over the summer for birthdays, a 5 day trip to Devon with my friends, my 18th birthday which will be spent on a plane flying to Turkey which will be a 11 day holiday with my family at the end of August. Finally, saying goodbye to some of my clostest friends who are going to uni and probably many visits throughout this year and next year visiting them.

So, lots to look forward to after exams. I hope you enjoyed a more relaxed post from me. I just thought I would fill you in on what is happening in my life and to warn you that there won't be anymore blog posts until after the 17th June.

So, farewell until June.

x

My Weekly Outfits #1 - 15th-22nd April

I thought I would write a different type of blog post this week. Throughout this week I have been taking pictures of my outfits and what I have been wearing. Through this, you guys, will be able to see my style and the sorts of clothes I personally like to wear. All the outfits I'm wearing vary as it does depend on what I am doing on that particular day.

Hope you enjoy this type of post, and let me know if you did in the comments.

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL 2015

It was the hottest day of the year so far in England on Wednesday, reaching highs of 25C, which is so unusual for England at this time of year as we are so use to it raining constantly. However, I was not complaining. I always think the sun puts everybody in a good mood, and means I can get out of my jumpers and jeans and start to get my legs out! 

Although it was sunny, I didn't get to go out in it as I am currently revising for my upcoming A Level exams which are just around the corner, so I was stuck inside all day. I know I could go outside and revise but I always get distracted and so I am more likely to get stuff done in my room. 

In the outfit I wore my hair up in a top-knot bun, which is my go to hairstyle as it is super quick, easy and gets my hair out of my face. I wore my 'E' necklace from Accessorize, which was only £5. My top is from New Look and I got it last year. It is a coraly-pinky colour with black palm trees on it. It is super comfortable and slouchy. It keeps me cool and I don't feel restricted while I study. I am wearing some dark denim shorts from Dorothy Perkins, which I had forgotton about. I have had these for years but haven't worn them in ages.

I don't have any make-up on in this picture as I wasn't going out anywhere. 

                                   

                                       

THURSDAY 16TH APRIL 2015

It was much cooler in the UK compared to Wednesday. I went out today for lunch with my brother and dad so I wanted something comfortable and simple. As I wasn't doing anything else apart from lunch and studying, it had to be something loose and workable. I had a different style in my hair. I went for some plaits which I loved. They make it look like you actually put some thought into your appearance. I wore my burgundy droplet necklace from Turkey, which I got at this pop-up store in the town and I love it. I paired that with a Basic cream tee with grey specks in it from H&M, which is so comfortable and I love H&M basics tops, they are the best quality and never shrink when washed. Some simple black jeans from Primark which I rolled at the bottom as they are super long. The colour of these has washed out a bit, but I prefer that washed-out denim look anyway so I don't mind. I put some black pop socks on from Primark which are a necessity if you are wearing pumps but want socks on at the same time. Finally, a classic watch from Next which is relatively new and I love it. 

                                

Sorry about my revision cards on the floor! 

FRIDAY 17TH APRIL 2015

Friday's outfit was another comfortable outfit. I went to the cinema today with my dad to see 'The Duff'. I really enjoyed the film as I do love a good chick flick. However, my dad, not so much. I wanted to be comfortable as I was going to be sitting down but a little dressed up. I chose the same top from the previous day as it was not dirty, from H&M. These smart/casual red, black and white patterned trousers from New Look, which I love to wear to school. They are super comfortable and stretchy but fit really well. I wore some nude slip-on socks from Primark as I was going to wearing some pumps with these outfit. My accessories were my Next watch (pictured above) and my Urban Outfitters necklace.
My nails were Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine in Rose Hip, which is a really pale pink shade. Perfect for spring!

The pattern of my trousers up close

SATURDAY 18TH APRIL 2015 

I forgot to take a picture of my outfit on Saturday. I went to see my elder brother play rugby and it was also super sunny! I wore my hair down and straightened. I wore some black skinny jeans from Primark (pictured on Thursday) with the legs turned up. A plain grey t-shirt from H&M and a light lilac jumper on top as I wasn't sure it was going to be warm or not, also from H&M. I paired it with my Next watch and a necklace from Next as well. Sorry about the lack of pictures!                 

SUNDAY 19TH APRIL 2015

It wasn't really warm today. I spent the day studying, revising and writing essays. Yawn! I wore my straightened hair up in a ponytail. My outfit was this super loud and crazy thick jumper from Pull&Bear which is super cosy, some blue denim jeggings from Dorothy Perkins which are about 5 years old and some cute frilly mustard socks from Topshop.

                                      

MONDAY 20TH APRIL 2015

I had an inset day today, before I go back to school tomorrow (so expect to see more smart outfits for sixth form). Again, I was frantically at my laptop all day revising and finishing off these two essays which I have not written due for Wednesday. It was sunny and warm today, which was so nice, but I stayed indoors all day. I wore some blue and white patterned shorts from Primark which are actually new and I haven't worn yet. I wore a white t-shirt with a lace fringing at the bottom from New Look and some red and white frilly socks from Topshop. I had my hair in a top-knot as well.

TUESDAY 21ST APRIL 2015 

My normal routine was back and it was my return to school today. I had a driving lesson in the morning at 10.15am for an hour, and I was originally wearing a completely different outfit, however I changed when I got home as it was too warm. I opted for this checkered blouse with a peter pan collar from Primark and a black skirt, also from Primark. I added my Next watch, some black opaque tights from a supermarket and a gold necklace with stars from Accessorize. I returned to school in the afternoon for one lesson. Sorry about my hair in this picture. 

                                

My necklace up close

WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL 2015 

The last day of my weekly outfits and I was in school all day today. I had my year photo and also my friendship group photo as well. I straightened my hair for this and also wore it down, but put it straight up as soon as the photos were over. I wore a cream flowy top from New Look, the same patterned trousers I wore earlier in the week also from New Look. I added some nude pop socks from Primark and my Next watch. 

                                   

                                      

What was your favourite outfit of the week?

First Impressions #2: Maybelline Instant Anti-Age The Eraser Eye

Another first impressions blog post for you guys as I enjoyed writing the last one so much. This blog post is all about the well-documented/well talked about concealer by Maybelline. 

I have heard so many good reviews about this concealer, so I knew I needed to pop down to my local Boots and purchase one for myself. 

                                

Packaging: I love the packaging of this concealer. I love the idea of the concealer having an instant applicator sponge and this is something so original and I have not seen on other concealers before. The sponge is super soft and comfortable to apply on the skin. The colour scheme of the packaging I also love. The burgundy/ red colours are simple and not too over-the-top. I also love the fact you have to twist the concealer in order to distribute the product. I find this gets the most out of your concealer without wasting any, and also, when you come to the end of the product, you are able to get as much product out as possible, compared to other concealers where you have to dip and then apply.  

Description: The description at the back of the concealer states: 'Micro-correcting eye concealer. Instantly conceals dark circles and fine lines.' As someone who suffers from extremely bad under-eye circles, to the point where they make me self-conscious and no foundation or concealer can completely cover them, I find I am probably not the most reliable at judging concealers. This is purely because I have tried so many concealers from the drugstore that other people rave about, like Collection Lasting Perfection and Rimmel Wake Me Up and although both these concealers minimise the darkness, they don't remove the appearance of dark circles completely. This concealer is the same for me personally. It is a lovely product and I really enjoy using it, don't get me wrong, but it isn't anything special from the other concealers I have used. As the description says and as the product is called, it is mainly focussed on the eyes, however you are able to use it on other places of your face. 

Consistency: As shown in the picture below, the product comes out in a creamy consistency. I have my concealer in the shade Light and I find this is the perfect match for me. The product comes out quite sheer on the skin, so I find you have to put quite a bit of product under your eyes to get the right amount, which I don't personally mind, however, for those of you who don't like too much product on your face, you might not like that. 

Price (reasonable or overpriced): £7.99. I would say this product is quite expensive for a concealer, compared to other very reasonable and just as good (maybe even better concealers) out in the drugstore.

Would I recommend it to a friend?: Yes, I think I probably will. Although I didn't personally get along with it due to my unusually dark circles, that doesn't mean that someone else won't like it. As I have said before, I had heard a lot of good reviews about this concealer.

Would I repurchase it?: No, I think I will be going back to my Collection and Rimmel concealers, but I have enjoyed using this.

Verdict: 3/5

Hope you enjoyed this blog post. Do you like the Maybelline Eraser Eye concealer?

What is your favourite concealer at the moment?

*All opinions are my own and all photos were taken by me. 

First Impressions #1: Rimmel Stay Matte Primer

I have bought a few new beauty bits over the last couple of months and I thought I would share my 'first impression' of each product. However, instead of doing a haul blog post that I have previously done before, I thought it would be a good idea to do one separate blog post for each product, showing you photos of each product and my honest opinion of each one. In this way, it might help some of you who have wanted to try out these products or want an honest opinion before buying it for yourself.

I always find 'first impression' videos and blog posts really helpful, as it allows me to hear other people's thoughts on these products and whether they are worth spending my precious pennies on.

Before I begin talking about the product, I will say that all opinions are my own and it is my honest opinion. Some products I may like and others I might not, so before making your own decision maybe look at other reviews before forming your overall opinion. As always, feel free to leave your own opinion below on each product and let me know of any other similar products that you love using as I am always looking for new products to try out and test.

                          

So, I recently bought the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer from Boots. I had heard a lot about primers and how they keep your make-up lasting all day and night, without needing to touch up in places. I know there are the more expensive primers from Benefit that a lot of people love, however that product was out of my price range, so I opted for a primer from the drugstore instead. I have never owned a primer before so I can't judge this primer against a previous one unfortunately. Also, I haven't heard anybody talk about this primer before either so I didn't have a opinion to follow. 

Packaging: The packaging is okay. It doesn't stand out to me or look expensive. It is a very simple design and doesn't have any other colours, apart from purple. If I'm honest, I don't really like the packaging. It doesn't look engaging or stand out on the shelf and if anything, looks a little bit cheap. 

Description: The description at the back of the tube states: 'Skin-perfecting primer can be worn alone, under makeup or on top to create a perfect matte complexion. Controls shine for up to 8 hours. Ultra lightweight formula minimises the appearance of pores.' The primer is not skin-perfecting for a start. It doesn't perfect my skin in any way. I still have the appearance of spots, blemishes and scars and doesn't perfect anything. My skin looks the same with or without the product on. 

Next, I have only tried this primer under makeup so I can only judge it on that. I feel like you shouldn't put primer on top of makeup as I would worry that it would move the makeup when applying it and make it feel heavy on the skin. I also haven't tried it on its own and I don't think I would ever do that either. As I have previously said, it doesn't do anything if I left it on its own and no one would be able to tell if I had primer on or not. 

The primer does not create a 'perfect matte complexion' either, instead it leaves my skin with a glow, which I don't have a problem with but it doesn't show up as 'matte' on my skin. 

The primer does control shine for a while. I haven't tried it for 8 hours but it is good at keeping my makeup on for a long time and also at controlling the shine on my face. 

I find the product quite thick and therefore you only need to apply a small amount to your face. As the description says, it does feel lightweight on the skin which I am very happy about. However, the primer does not minimise the appearance of any pores. 

Consistency: As shown in the picture above, the product comes out white, almost like a cream. It is very thick so you only need to apply a little bit to your face, otherwise it can become heavy on your skin.

Price (reasonable or overpriced): £5.99. I would say it is a little overpriced for this product as you only get a small tube, however you only need a little bit of product so it would last you a long time.

Would I recommend it to a friend?: Probably not, although this product does have some highlights, it has a lot of flaws. It does manage to keep my makeup on but apart from that, it doesn't do much else.

Would I repurchase it?: No, I will be looking for a different primer in the future. But, for now, I will keep using up this product as I don't want to waste it.

Verdict: 2/5

Hope you enjoyed this blog post. It is a little bit different from my usual fashion and style posts. I hope some of you found this post helpful and let me know in the comments of your favourite primers to use.

*All opinions are my own and all photos are taken by me. 

Get The Look: Alexa Chung

I have been trying to get these blog post up for so long now and I have been putting it off for so long. I love doing these type of blog posts, as I love taking inspiration from celebrities and trying to find a similar outfit on the high street for half the price. However, these posts do take a long time to produce and create, so sorry about that. The blog post is dedicated to the gorgeous Alexa Chung. I love Alexa's laid back style, but she still manages to look as if she has taken a long time to put together her outfit.

I was meant to put together 3 different looks on Alexa's style, but I haven't published a blog post in so long and I thought that you guys had been waiting long enough, so I only have the two.

Look 1

Black Curved Hem 3/4 Sleeve Blazer - £24.99 - New Look (Also in Cream and Shell Pink)
White Smart Cotton Shirt - £25 - River Island
Silence + Noise North Convertible Clutch Bag in Black - £32 - Urban Outfitters
MOTO Vintage Mom Shorts - £28 - Topshop

Alexa's first looks like it should not work, however, in a odd way she pulls it off. Alexa dresses the look up with a smart white blouse (a must have in any wardrobe) with a black staple blazer. However, she makes the look more casual with some distressed denim shorts and black tights. For accessories, she adds a black shoulder bag and a polka dot tie for a pop of colour. I love this look as it shows you that you don't have to keep your shorts for the summer but can wear them all year round. I found a similar look on the high street for you. My favourite items I found were the high-waisted shorts from Topshop which resemble mom jeans, but in shorts. I also love the bag from Urban Outfitters as it is a stable and would go with so many outfits, which can be worn smart or casual.

Look 2

White Oversized Dip Hem Longline Shirt - £14.99 - New Look (Also in Black)
Flippy Panel Skirt - £25 - Topshop
Silence + Noise North Convertible Clutch Bag in Black - £32 - Urban Outfitters
Black Pointed Platform Ankle Strap Heels - £27.99 - New Look (Also in Pale Blue and Blue Pattern)

Alexa's second look is much more smart than the first. Again, Alexa wears a white blouse with a gold-studded collar to add some dimension to the outfit. A black velvet skirt makes this look appear quite preppy. The bag, as shown before, is paired with some high heels to make the look more smart.

Hope you enjoyed this blog post. Let me know if you enjoy these type of posts and I will try and get into a schedule in writing more blog posts and quicker.