Flormar’s “Magical Colour Effect Correcting Cream” – Review.

The ‘season to be jolly’ has officially come to a close and I have to say, my skin is squealing with relief. Many nights out, lots of make-up and lack of sleep can cause skin to dehydrate and blemish – disaster! So, over the past few days, I have ditched the ‘full-coverage’ foundation for a more moisturising option – Flormar’s “CC Cream”.

 

Flormar’s “Magical Colour Effect Correcting Cream” is marketed as a multi-purpose beauty product which illuminates and transforms skin from drab to fab in seconds. But, does it live up to expectations?

The “CC Cream” is available in four different shades:

• CCO1 (Purple): brightens tired looking skin by balancing the yellow/green tones in your skin, to give you a more alert, fresher look.
• CCO2 (Green): helps neutralise redness to give a more natural, even look.
• CCO3 (Pink): neutralizes blue-green tones in your skin, to banish dark circles under the eyes.
• CCO4 (Neutral): provides extra coverage and is ideal for problematic areas such as scars.

Of these shades, I was lucky enough to be gifted CCO3 and CCO4 and I have been reaching for both non-stop over the past two weeks. Both formulas contain light-reflecting pigments which transform into foundation when applied on to skin. This means that the shade adapts to match your natural skin tone. Now, ordinarily I think that ‘one shade suits all’ formulas are a gimmick but I have to say that this one adapted perfectly to my porcelain pale skin – no orange tone in sight!

The “CC Cream” does exactly what it claims to do on the packaging by illuminating and brightening skin. It’s perfect for providing a ‘barely there’ make-up look. CCO4 provides excellent coverage and would be ideal for blemish prone skin, while CCO3 will awaken tired, dull skin.

At a price point of just €11.95, this product is an absolute must-have and is definitely staying resident in my make-up bag. In fact, I am absolutely dying to purchase CCO2 because I’m always looking for new anti-redness formulas.

Let me know if you have tried this product. Or, if you have another “CC Cream” favourite.

Rouge x

 

Stocking Fillers – Under €30 (For Her).

So, the last minute Christmas panic is officially upon us as shoppers scramble to purchase some affordable gifts to “bulk up” seemingly inadequate presents. With that in mind, here’s a list 0f “stocking filler” type gifts, which are sure to bring a smile to any girl’s face. At this point, I recommend thanking baby Jesus for “next day delivery”.

Nip + Fab Dragon’s Blood Fix Set (€18.74 – 25% off at time of publishing on Cloud10Beauty.com):

 

 

Nip & Fab are a fabulous and affordable skincare brand, adored by celebrities including Kylie Jenner. The “Dragon Blood” range is a favourite of Kylie’s so, if the lady in your life understands the worldwide “Kardashian Kraze”, she will know all about the plumping and hydrating effects associated with these products. At the moment, Cloud10Beauty.com are offering 25% off all Christmas gift sets, so this set which is actually worth €28 can be your’s for €18.74 – BARGAIN!

You can purchase here at Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

Flormar Eyeshadow Colour Palette 07 Nude Dudes (€9.99):

Anyone who reads this blog will know all about my obsession with Flormar products. An excellent quality eyeshadow palette for less than a tenner? This one speaks for itself.

Available here from SimplyFoxy.com.

 

Light Grey “Hold Me” Cliptop Purse (€25):

 

This cute little clutch from River Island is both stylish and practical, with a nice little “hold me” reminder for those girls who are notorious for forgetting/losing their handbags during nights out.

Available here from RiverIsland.com.

 

Falke “Bijou Tights” (€24):

 

 

There’s a special place in hell for cheap hosiery so why not treat your favourite lady to a pair of these high-quality tights from Falke? I was introduced to the brand earlier this year, and quickly fell in love. The “Bijou Tights” boast a sexy, yet sophisticated lace pattern which is sure to transform any boring outfit.

Available here from BrownThomas.com.

 

Crabtree & Evelyn Noel Large Poured Candle (€20 – 50% off at time of publishing on Cloud10Beauty.com):

 

 

Very few women fail to appreciate the delight of a richly fragranced candle. This beautiful option from Crabtree and Evelyn has a seasonal scent and is presented in a traditional Christmas-themed box.

Available here at Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

Flawless Cosmetic Brush Bag Set (€25):

 

 

I recently discovered this make-up brush set and fell in love. For only €25, you receive 6 really good quality brushes. Excellent value when you consider that most high-end brushes cost at least €30 EACH! This would make a great starter or travel-kit for newbie make-up fanatics.

Available here at SimplyFoxy.com.

 

theBalm “In The Balm Of Your Hand” Gift Set (€29.63 – 25% off at time of publishing on Cloud10Beauty.com):

 

 

theBalm are quickly becoming one of my favourite make-up brands. How could anyone resist this packaging? This handy palette contains: eyeshadows, lip and cheek creams, blushes, bronzer, highlighter – everything a girl could wish for. An especially great gift for anyone who suffers from “wanderlust” and is always on-the-go.

Available here from Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

Sleek “i-Lust Palette” (€9.99):

 

 

Another option for under €10. This Sleek eyeshadow palette features four silky shimmer powders and two rich cream formulas. The shades are flattering on all skin-tones, so you don’t have to worry about choosing the wrong colours.

Available here from Boots.ie.

 

CND Aurora Collection (€11.50 Each + Weekly Top Coat €11.50):

 

 

CND nail polish boasts a fabulous formula which lasts (chip-free) for 7 days, when applied in conjunction with their “top coat” formula. A few of these little bottles would make lovely stocking fillers. My personal favourite shade is “Glacial Mist”, an ice-blue which provides a nice contrast to the plum and berry shades usually associated with the festive season.

 

Available here from DolledUp.ie.

 

And that’s a wrap on the Christmas posts, folks. Let me know what you’ve thought of the series in the comments section. Have you purchased any of the suggestions?

 

Christmas Gifts for Her – The Save Edition.

If the “Splurge Edition” of my “Christmas Gift Guides, for Her” was a little beyond your budget, don’t panic – I have come up with a little guide, filled with goodies which are available for under €100.

Kevin Murphy – “Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang” Gift Set (€50):

 

 

If anyone is looking to buy me a Christmas gift, this is the one to choose. Kevin Murphy haircare is loved by celebrities worldwide, and I am just dying to try it out. This starter kit is the perfect treat for a loved one with luscious locks.  This set includes:

1 x Kevin Murphy Plumping Wash 250 ml.

1 x Kevin Murphy Plumping Rinse 250 ml.

1 x Kevin Murphy Limited Edition Plumping Lipgloss.

Available here from Shampoo.ie.

 

This Works – “I Have a Dream” Gift Set (€96):

 

 

If you have a loved one who has been particularly stressed out recently, this gift set will allow them to rest and relax in peace. This Works’ “Deep Sleep” remedies are designed to promote a blissful night’s sleep, using natural ingredients and essential oils. It may be a little on the pricey side at €96, but certainly worth it – especially for worn out Mums.

Available here at Thisworks.com.

 

Urban Decay – Gwen Stefani Palette (€46).

 

 

Does this one even need an explanation? There is not a woman on this planet who would not love this eyeshadow palette. The collaboration between Urban Decay and Gwen Stefani is quirky, fun and surprisingly wearable – I have been using every single shade in my own palette. However, I would describe this palette as quite neutral, so if your lady of choice prefers a pop of colour, check out the Urban Decay “Vice 4” palette.

The Gwen Stefani Palette is available here from Debenhams.ie.

 

Blank Canvas – 5 Piece Travel Brush Set (€49.95).

 

 

A girl can never have too many make-up brushes and this set is perfect for ladies who are always on the run. 5 essential brushes, stored in a handbag-friendly faux leather case – what more could we ask for? This would be a particularly great gift for festival goers and workaholics.

Available here from Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

REN – Beauty Booster Kit (€35.96).

 

 

The contents of this REN gift set are actually work over €60, so it is a pretty great bargain. Suitable for all skin types, the three products included promise to renew and revive tired skin. This one will come in particularly handy when the festive hangovers begin to kick in.

Available here from Cloud10beauty.com.

 

B by Ted Baker – Rose Print Kimono (€59.00).

 

 

Lingerie by Ted Baker is luxury at its’ finest. I love the rich rose print and purple trim of this piece – wow!

Available here from Debenhams.ie.

 

Chupi – Say My Name Gold Initial Necklace (€79).

 

 

I kept the best until last. This personalised necklace from Chupi is what dreams are made of. These necklaces are bespoke and can be altered to suit the individual for which they are being purchased. Personally, I would choose my initial to be paired with a red gemstone – my lucky colour.

Available here at Chupi.ie.

 

So, what do you think of these picks? And, if you had a limit of €100, what would you ask for as a gift? Let me know in the comments!

Rouge x

Christmas Gifts For Her – The Splurge Edition.

Are you one of those men who has trouble differentiating Primark from Prada? Well, if you’re a hopeless boyfriend when it comes to expensive gift giving, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a list of perfect presents that will easily earn you a year’s worth of brownie points:

Charlotte Tilbury – Miss Kensington Look (€250). 

 

Inspired by the haughty but naughty girls of the swinging sixties, this gift set is comprised of the coveted limited edition products from Charlotte Tilbury’s “Norma Parkinson” collection. This is a luxury offering and is available here from Brown Thomas. It will make any girl squeal with delight – well worth every penny!

Carvela – Black “Sammy” Over-The-Knee Boots (€240).

Over-the-knee boots are hugely popular at the moment and this pair from Carvela are fabulous. If the lady in your life dreams of ransacking Kendall Jenner’s wardrobe, then these are a sure bet. Available here from Debenhams.

Tessa Metcalfe – Rings on Rings / Emerald & Peridot (£220).

This beautiful piece of jewellery is handmade by London designer, Tessa Metcalfe. I came across Tessa’s work a few years ago and have been dying to purchase a piece ever since. Bank balance willing, I will soon be adding this beauty to my collection. Set into this ring are a Columbian emerald and a pretty pale green peridot – well worth every penny! Available here from London Rocks.

Armani Prive – “Cuir Noir” (€215).

This one is a dark, provocative perfume with leather accents. Although it is a very strong scent, I think it makes the perfect “night-time” fragrance. Available here from Brown Thomas.

Jo Malone London – Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne (€105).

This fragrance is much lighter than the Armani Prive blend. The “Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne” stole my heart in seconds. Upon application, I was transported to a windswept haven – I could almost taste the bitter sea water. I am sick to death of “tropical” beach scents and this perfume offers a beautiful alternative. I love the notes of sage which add a delicate woody fragrance. It’s a soothing scent, reminiscent of rugged cliffs. This cologne has become my signature scent – you can read my full review here. The perfume is available here from Brown Thomas.

Wolford – Cara Swarovski Crystal Tights (€139).

These tights will make any woman feel like Beyonce – enough said. Available here from Brown Thomas.

Kate Spade New York – Cedar Street Maise Bag (€335).

Dear Santa… This beauty is available here from Brown Thomas.

That’s all for now folks. What do you think of my picks? And, more importantly – what would you choose if money was no object?

Sit tight for a more bargain friendly gift guide.

Rouge x

 

 

The 12 Pubs Of Christmas Jumper Guide.

In recent years, the alcohol fuelled adventure known as “The Twelve Pubs of Christmas” has become an honoured tradition amongst Irishmen nationwide. Party-goers can be spotted from miles off meandering from pub to pub sporting tinsel, baubles and most importantly, their Christmas jumpers. Christmas jumpers you say? Let the flashbacks of embarrassing Christmas ensembles, designed and produced by none other than your fabulous Granny and her knitting needles begin.

Nowadays, Christmas jumpers have become a little more chic – or at least, well-fitted. I have searched the internet far and wide to find an original design – because lets face it, at least 12 other people in your group will be sporting the exact same jumper from Primark – and, I have finally found the perfect website. Let me introduce you to  Funky Christmas Jumpers.

The Kim Kardashian.

 

This is my absolute favourite design but it is LIMITED EDITION, so if you want it, order it quickly. Kimmy K “broke the internet” earlier this year with this infamous naked pose for “Paper” magazine. So, this jumper is bound to be a crowd pleaser. Get ready for the selfies… This one is available here for €59.99. Perhaps a little pricey but, oh-so hilarious.

Wrecking Santa Jumper

Another celebrity spin-off, and this time Funky Christmas Jumpers have depicted scantily clad Santa Clause taking the place of Miley Cyrus on a wrecking ball. This one is available here for €39.99 and is sure to inspire a few chuckles, if not a sing-song or two.

Happy Birthday Jesus.

This tongue-in-cheek design was a best seller for Funky Christmas Jumpers last year. This wacky, yet wonderful jumper is a guaranteed head turner. But, I wouldn’t recommend wearing it to mass on Christmas morning. Available here for €39.99.

Naked Santa Christmas Jumper

If there’s a competition for the cheekiest Christmas jumper in your local pub, this one will be a winner. Available here for €39.99.

For these designs and many more, you can visit Funky Christmas Jumpers online.

Have you purchased your Christmas jumper yet or do you think that they’re old relics, best left in the past?

Let me know in the comments.

Rouge x