The Perfect Personalised Present by Lauryn Rose

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been getting a few questions about Christmas gift ideas. I know that I usually post gift guides early on in the month of December but this year, I noticed that my Instagram feed was filled with similar guides and to be honest, I just felt that there was no real need to publish yet another one. With that said, I’m the type of girl who gets really excited about buying gifts for friends and family. My favourite type of presents to both give and receive are those with attached sentiment. So, I just had to write a post on this little gem of an idea by Lauryn Rose.

Lauryn Rose are an Irish company that sell dainty pieces of gorgeous jewellery through their online store. I’ve actually got a few pieces in my personal jewellery collection, including their “Think of Me” charm bracelet which I wear all the time. So, when it comes to buying gifts, I know where to look first. The online store offer lots of styles to choose from but for me, the most beautiful pieces are found within their “Geometric Collection”. The “Geometric Collection” is made up of dainty little necklaces which Lauryn Rose will engrave for free, with purchase. Prices start at €39 and every purchase is beautifully wrapped and packaged in a box filled with dried rose petals.

This year, as all of my best friends were turning 25 and I wanted to buy them something special to mark the occasion, I purchased us a “Gold Bar Necklace” each and had our nicknames engraved on them. I am obsessed with personalised presents but I was delighted to see how much the girls loved them too, the proof is in the fact that I see them wearing them all the time.

The picture above is of my own necklace, engraved with my nickname, “Cole”. I think that you’ll agree with me when I say it’s really pretty – I love simple, dainty jewellery. I was so impressed by the quality of these necklaces given that they are so affordable. I’ve had mine for ages now and although it’s gold plated, it hasn’t tarnished. There is also a 9ct gold option available, for those who are interested.

And there you have it, the engraved necklace is one of my favourite gift ideas of 2018. I just think it’s a lovely sentimental gift that would suit ladies of all ages. For more info, you can check out Lauryn Rose’s website here.

Now, let us know what you think in the comment section on Instagram. Are any of these pieces being added to your Christmas list?

Rouge x

Armani “Lip Magnet” – Review

If you’ve watched my Instastories lately, you’ll know that I’m obsessed with Armani beauty products. They’re one of my favourite make up brands, simply because their products are fuss-free and easy to use. With this in mind, when I’m buying new products, the Armani counter is usually my first stop and a few weeks ago, I went on a little bit of a shopping spree. I picked up some of my usual favourites, including the Armani “Luminous Silk Foundation” which I reviewed here but I also picked up a newbie.

 

 

Let me introduce you to the newest member of my lipstick family; Armani’s “Lip Magnet” in the Shade “No. 508”. Now, I fell in lust with the “Lip Magnet” formula last winter, when the first batch of shades were released and wore “No.602”, a stunning deep plum shade, religiously over the Christmas season. So, when the sales assistant at the Armani counter in Brown Thomas informed me that Armani released new shades of the “Lip Magnet” formula for Christmas 2017, I knew I wouldn’t be able to resist. However, I didn’t expect anything nearly as gorgeous as the shade “No.508” – I think I’ve finally found my “perfect” nude shade.

The “Lip Magnet” is a really high-end, matte lipstick. It glides onto the lips and if you apply a very thin layer, it feels weightless on the lips. I know that some people are concerned about wearing matte make up products during the cold weather months but they’re ideal for nights out and you’ll see plenty of those over the festive season. The “Lip Magnet” stays put ALL night, not just for a few hours and it’s neither drying nor moisturising. It does fade but it doesn’t crack or bleed like lots of other matte formulas and for this reason, I’m content to pay the hefty price of €33.

Did I mention that the “No.508” shade is perfection? As a pale skinned ghost girl, I really struggle to find nude lipstick shades that don’t create the illusion that I’m a cast member of The Walking Dead. For that reason, I steer clear of light nudes and opt for rose shades instead. However, this shade is a beautiful light pink shade that’s actually pretty close (but nicer) to my natural lip shade.

 

To summarise, the “Lip Magnet” is my new go-to party lipstick and even though I am a fan of the classic Christmas reds, I think I’ll be opting to wear “No.508” at every opportunity over the next few weeks! If you’re at an Armani counter over the next few weeks, have a swatch and you won’t regret it!

 

What do you think of the shade? And, have you tried the “Lip Magnet” formula before? Let us know in the comment section!

Rouge x

Help Meaghers Pharmacy #WRAP4HOMELESS this Christmas – Top 5 Picks for Him

A few weeks ago, Meaghers Pharmacy launched their #Wrap4Homeless campaign in association with the Peter McVerry trust and the response from Irish consumers has been amazing. For every two gifts that you pay to have wrapped by Meaghers Pharmacy, they will donate the proceeds to the Peter McVerry Trust and provide one person with a bed for the night. And, the last time that I spoke to Oonagh, the CEO of Meaghers, they had raised over €13,000 – what an amazing achievement!

But, the campaign isn’t over yet. A few weeks ago, I provided you with a “Top 5” gift guide post for the ladies in your life which you can read here. The response from readers was great, with many of you sending me pictures of your purchases on Snapchat (@Rougewriting) and Instagram (@RougeWritingHood) and, lots of you asked me to write a similar post about presents for men. So, I roped my brother into helping out on this one, and together we have constructed a list of our “Top 5” gifts for men from Meaghers Pharmacy.

Hugo Boss “Boss” – Available Here.

Clarins “Men Hydrating Essentials” – Available Here.

Ted Baker “Ted’s Essentials” – Available Here.

Disney “Grumpy Shower Duo” – Available Here.

Clarins “Men Super Moisturise Gel” – Available Here.

So there’s a little gift inspiration for you. And, you can do you good deed of the week by choosing to support Meaghers’ #Wrap4Homeless campaign while shopping.

If you do choose to donate, I would love to hear about it so why not let me know over on Twitter (@rougewriting) or tag me in photos of your gift/orders over on Instagram (@rougewritinghood).

Rouge x

Christmas 2016 – Fragrances for Her

“Perfume is the key to our memories.” – Kate Lord Brown.

 

 

 

Fragrances for Her:

Giorgio Armani “Sí” – Available Here from Debenhams.

 

Armani’s “Sí” is a gorgeous full-bodied, yet feminine scent. The perfume has warm, musky undertones with notes of neroli, jasmine and Sicilian bergamot. I think that this option is a pretty versatile one as it can be worn during the day or night. It’s quite a rich scent so it’s probably not for those who love an extremely sweet perfume, but it’s definitely a great option for those who prefer an intense, long-lasting fragrance.

 

 

 

 

Mugler “Angel” – Available Here from Debenhams.

 

This perfume has been a “cult favourite” of women worldwide for as long as I can remember but, until recently I had never tried it. And, I have to say, I was missing out. This is a lovely, fresh scent for daytime wear. With notes of honey, chocolate and red berries; this is one of the sweeter smelling options on the list. So, while I prefer a sultry, seductive fragrance for nights out, I love wearing this one during the day at work because it’s nice and subtle. I’ve been getting lots of compliments on this scent. It’s also worth noting that this fragrance is refillable, so it works out as the “good value for money” option too.

 

 

 

 

Replica “Beach Walk” – Available Here from Brown Thomas.

 

Want. Need. Must have! This fragrance from Replica is on my own personal Christmas wish list. So, I hope Santa is reading. I absolutely adore salty, ocean inspired scents and when I sampled this fragrance a few weeks ago, I fell head over heels in love. This is a really fresh, crisp scent that is filled with notes of pink pepper, lemon, bergamot and ylang ylang. I think that this one would be the perfect gift for anyone who enjoys the outdoors or a natural, calming scent.

 

 

 

 

Moschino “Fresh Couture” – Available Here from Debenhams.

 

Any of my Snapchat followers will know that I love this fragrance so much, I’ve almost used up my entire 100ml bottle in 3 months. You can read my full review here.

 

 

 

 

Tom Ford “Velvet Orchid” – Available Here from Brown Thomas.

 

If I could only use one fragrance for the rest of my life, I would choose this one. I absolutely adore it. Now, be warned, it is a very strong scent so this isn’t an option for those who like subtle, soft perfume. However, it is slightly less spicy than the original “Black Orchid” scent so, I would suggest this one for anyone who loves that fragrance. With cool citrus tones and a seductive sandalwood base, “Velvet Orchid” is an instantly recognisable perfume that will quickly become a woman’s signature scent.

 

 

Viktor & Rolf “Flowerbomb” – Available Here from Debenhams.

 

After reading this post, you’ll probably realise that I prefer strong scents with notes of sandalwood and leather. However, that isn’t to everyone’s taste. If the lady in your life prefers a warm, floral fragrance; then “Flowerbomb” is the one for her. This perfume is very floral, with notes of orchid and jasmine. So, it’s safe to assume that anyone who loves to fill their home with fresh flowers or enjoys gardening, will adore this fragrance.

 

 

So, there you have it. Lots of different fragrance options for the ladies in your life. Whether, she loves sweet, sultry or floral scents – this list has got you covered. However, if you’ve got a fragrance that you think I should have included, please mention it in the comment section – all suggestions welcome.

Rouge x

 

P.S if you want to take a look at some of my other gift guides for Christmas 2016, I will leave a list of links below:

• “Secret Santa” Gifts under €15.
• Gifts for Her (The Splurge Edition).
• Skincare Gift Ideas, for Her.
• Help Meaghers Pharmacy #Wrap4Homeless Gift Guide.
• TheBalm Christmas Collection.

Secret Santa – Christmas Gifts Under €15

 

For Her:

 

 

“Pink Fizz Cocktail Candle” from Meaghers Pharmacy.

 

 

 

“Tropical Flower Mac Keyboard Cover” from My Shining Armour.

 

 

 

“#Girlboss” by Sophia Amoruso from My Shining Armour.

 

 

 

Cocoa Brown “The Golden Goddess Collection” from Meaghers Pharmacy.

 

 

 

Bombay Duck “Enjoy Today Mug” from Meaghers Pharmacy.

 

 

 

Catrice “High Glow Mineral Highlight Powder” from Meaghers Pharmacy.

 

 

 

For Him:

 

 

Disney Shower Duo from Meaghers Pharmacy.

 

 

 

Gillette “Mach 3 Wash Bag” from Cara Pharmacy.

 

 

 

Shruti “Whisky Stones” from Cara Pharmacy.

 

 

 

“Dog Mug with Teabags” from Debenhams.

 

 

 

“Super Sours” from Debenhams.

 

 

 

“Drinking Game Bar Mats” from Debenhams.

 

 

And, there you have it! We’ve taken all the hard work out of choosing “Secret Santa” gifts for those colleagues that you’ve barely spoken to or, the distant relatives you only see once a year, over the festive season.

On another note, if you’re thinking of purchasing any of the gift options from Meaghers Pharmacy, don’t forget to support their #Wrap4Homeless campaign. You can find more details here.

If you have any goodies that you think should be included in this list, just leave the details in the comment section!

Rouge x

Gifts for Her – The Splurge Edition

“She ain’t got time for lovin’, Louis Vuitton her husband..” – The Weeknd.

 

Alright, so it’s fairly safe to assume that this gift guide may only be of interest to those who have recently won the lotto and are hoping to buy the ladies in their life a gorgeous Christmas gift with the proceeds. However, there’s no harm in writing a little “lust list”. We’ve all got to dream, after all.

 

 

Alexander Mc Queen “Padlock Tote” – Available Here.

 

 

 

Valentino “Rockstud 100 Ankle Boots” – Available Here.

 

 

 

Chupi “Dew Drop in the Wild” – Available Here.

 

 

Cartier “Hypnose” Watch – Available Here.

 

 

 

Charlotte Tilbury – “The Golden Goddess Look In a Box” – Available Here.

 

 

I want it all!! For more affordable gift guides, you can check out the main blog and, stay tuned for more..

 

Rouge x

Help Meaghers Pharmacy #WRAP4HOMELESS this Christmas – Top 5 Picks for Her.

“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde.

A few weeks ago, Meaghers Pharmacy launched their #Wrap4Homeless campaign in aid of the Petter Mc Verry Trust. The campaign aims to highlight the issue of homelessness in Ireland and to raise funds for those in need of shelter. Unfortunately, the issue is a growing problem in Irish society, with 6,709 people registering as homeless in September 2016. Just €4 can provide a homeless person with shelter and a warm bed for the night, so in order to provide more people with these facilities over the winter months; Meaghers have introduce a gift wrapping service for Christmas. For every two gifts wrapped, they will provide one person with a bed for the night. So, choosing to pay a tiny fee to have your gifts wrapped (rather than spending hours struggling with the sellotape) is a really small gesture that could make a really big difference.

Keeping that in mind, here are some gift ideas “for her” that you can use as inspiration.

AYU “All About Eyes” Set (available here):

Brush sets are a foolproof gift for the girls in your life. Unless you purchase the wrong ones, of course. AYU are an Irish brand that are very affordable but provide really high-quality brushes. This little eyeshadow brush set would be the perfect addiction to any make up addict’s collection. It retails for just €22..50.

Pop Candle “Merry Prosecco and A Champagne New Year” (available here):

If anyone reading this is planning on purchasing a stocking filler for me; this candle will do nicely. Anyone who loves a sneaky glass of bubbles will adore this scented luxury candle. With a burn time of 40 hours, it’s a bargain at €15.96 (currently on offer).

Clarins Detox Collection Giftset (available here):

I already have this set myself and it’s perfect for anyone who likes to travel. All of the products are refreshing and work well on dull, tired skin. The giftset would make a great present for tired Mums or girls who are always on the go. I also love the little travel bag that is included in the set – it’s a good size and easily fits all the cosmetics that one carries in an overnight bag.

The “52 Week Happiness Planner” (available here):

Ladies went mad for these “52 Week Happiness Planners” when they were released last year and I’m assuming that it will be no different this year. This is a great gift for stationary lovers and those who keep a diary. Bridget Jones, eat your heart out!

theBalm “Nude Dude” Palette (available here): 

This palette from theBalm is easily my favourite “nude” palette on the market. I reach for it almost every morning and guarantee you that it will go down a treat with any of the ladies in your life. This palette is a really nice mixture of matte and shimmer shades so it’s suitable for all ages and the tongue-in-cheek packaging is bound to get a laugh on Christmas morning. If you missed my last Christmas gift guide; you can check out more Christmas options from theBalm here.

So there’s a little gift inspiration for you. And, you can do you good deed of the week by choosing to support Meaghers’ #Wrap4Homeless campaign while shopping. For more information on the campaign, you can check out the details here.

If you do choose to donate, I would love to hear about it so why not let me know over on Twitter (@rougewriting) or tag me in photos of your gift/orders over on Instagram (@rougewritinghood).

Rouge x

theBalm – Christmas Collection 2016

“Dear Santa, I can explain….” – Anonymous.

 

theBalm are one of my favourite make up brands EVER. I love the quirky packaging but more importantly, I love the products. At a reasonable price-point, the brand never seem to fail when it comes to delivering on quality and that is really the important thing for every beauty addict. Keeping this in mind, I’ve decided to help you out a little when it comes to constructing your Christmas wish list. Apologies in advance, because I know you will want it all.

 

 

Meet Matt(e) Hughes Mini Collection

 

Anyone who follows me on social media already knows that I am OBSESSED with these liquid lipsticks. I think they beat the cult favourite “Kylie Jenner Lip Kits” hands down. I’ve written a full review here. My favourite shade is “Loyal” which is a divine red – perfect for Christmas. However, if I was purchasing a gift for a friend, I would definitely pick up this multi-pack. Six shades for just €29.

 

 

TheBalm Appetit Eyeshadow Palette

 

This one is a gorgeous eyeshadow palette that can be used to create neutral or fun, colourful looks.The packaging is quirky and cute with some tongue-in-cheek slogans and shade names. I love the inclusion of shimmer shades – we all need a little sparkle in our lives over the festive season. My favourite shade is “Chris. P Bacon” which is a gorgeous burnt orange colour with lots of shimmer – perfect for use as a “pop” shade on the centre of the eyelid. This palette retails at €39.95 which may seem a little steep but the shadows themselves are  a large size and should last a lifetime. It’s going to be a sell-out so my advice is to pick one up while stocks last.

 

 

Meet the Manizer Sisters

 

Every beauty nerd has heard about theBalm’s cult favourite “Mary-Lou Manizer”. It’s arguably the best powder highlighter on the market so, if you haven’t tried it, what are you waiting for? Or better still, pick up this limited edition palette and try Mary Lou’s sister products too. I adore the “Cindy Lou” shade as a blusher – it’s my everyday go-to product. And, “Betty Lou” would be a great product for anyone who likes a bronzer that has a little flicker of shimmer throughout the formula. The “Meet the Manizer Sisters” palette would be perfect for gals on the go who don’t want to carry around really bulky, heavy make-up kits in their handbags. It retails at €28 which is very reasonable considering the individual products cost €21.50 each.

 

So what do you think of the products? I bet that you want them all! theBalm’s Christmas products are available from retailers nationwide including Debenhams, Meaghers Pharmacy and Make Up Forever (Clarendon Street, Dublin 2). Don’t forget to drop us a line in the comment section and let us know which gifts are on your Christmas wish list.

Rouge x

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debenhams Discount (10% Off) – My Top 5 Picks.

For those of you who didn’t know already, Debenhams are currently holding their “Winter Spectacular” sale. This means that they’re offering 25% off across the store and 10% – 20% off all beauty products. Now, 10% may not seem like a lot but, if you’re looking for some luxury beauty products which are very rarely discounted; then I recommend taking a look.

Here are my “Top 5 Picks”:

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent ‘Fusion Ink Encre de Peau’ Cushion Foundation (available here).

Urban Decay ‘Naked Ultimate Basics’ Eyeshadow Palette (available here).

Too Faced “Sweetheart Blush” (available here).

theBalm “Balm Voyage” Holiday Face Palette (available here). Full review post here.

Urban Decay “Original Primer Potion” (available here).

The above are my top 5, must have make up products at the moment. They’re perfect Christmas gifts, or because it’s Thursday, why not treat yourself? As if we even need an excuse.

The Debenhams “Winter Spectacular” sale is due to continue until Sunday 13th November so I suggest stocking up while you have the chance!

Rouge x

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