theBalm “Batter Up” Eyeshadow Sticks.

Regular readers of this blog will know that recently, I have become obsessed with theBalm. The brand are quirky, cruelty-free and boy, do they know how to create high quality formulas! If you haven’t already, you need to check out my review of their holy grail lip product “Meet Matt(e) Hughes”.

Now, that’s the self-promotion out of the way so, let’s chat about their newest release “Batter Up” eyeshadow sticks. As you may have noticed, I’m not a big fan of cream eyeshadow formulas in general. I find them sticky, difficult to spread and impossible to blend. Therefore, I didn’t know what to expect when theBalm kindly sent me samples of their new formula.

  

As per usual, theBalm have amazed me and I’m an official convert to this particular cream formula. The eyeshadow sticks, which come in a range of 8 new shades, are to die for! The consistency of the formula is creamy and non-sticky, which makes it easy to blend. Also, I know that creasing is a huge problem associated with cream eyeshadows so I’m delighted to report that I’ve worn the “Batter Up” formula for 10 hours, without any creasing at all – but note that I always wear an eye primer.

  

The shades have a really strong pigment so you can apply them directly from the stick to your skin for an intense colour. Or, for a more subtle finish, you can apply with a brush. Personally, I prefer applying the formula directly from the stick and blending it with my fingers. You can also apply the formula on top of your regular powder shadows before a night out for some extra oomph.

  

“Batter Up” eyeshadow sticks are available here from Cloud10Beauty.com and are priced at €18.50 each. What do you think? Would you be willing to convert from your powder palettes?

Rouge X 

 

13 Valentine Gifts Under €30, For Her.

So pay day has arrived and “Dry January” has come to a close – thank God! You’re finally free to spend all your hard earned cash on nights out and Nike. Well that was what you thought, until you realised that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. But, we’ve done a little research on your behalf. Behold 13 Valentine’s Day gifts for less €30:

Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick (€19):

There isn’t a make up junkie on the planet who fails to appreciate Urban Decay cosmetics. If picking a shade proves problematic opt for something neutral like “Native” or”Naked”. The Urban Decay Revolution Lipsticks are available here at Debenhams.ie.

 

Miniature Macaroon Necklace (€9.97):

If you have been forced to sit through endless episodes of “Gossip Girl” and subjected to more than a dozen Chuck Bass quotes, then this gift will put you in the good books for life. Be sure to include the words “I was in Paris, only to get your favourite macaroons from Pierre Hermé” in your card. It will either work wonders, or make you look like a complete creep. This necklace is available here from Etsy.

 

theBalm The Manizer Sisters (€28 / Currently €23.52 from Cloud10Beauty).

This one is a “Holy Grail” among make up lovers so you can’t really go wrong. Available here (currently on sale) from Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

Urban Decay Total Perversion Duo (€28):

 

While the name is a little sketchy, the sentiment is clear. This mascara has caused obsession worldwide – even Kim Kardashian is a fan. Available here from Debenhams.ie.

 

PHYT’s Lait Hydro-Nettoyant Cleanser (€22):

PHYT’s are possibly the best skincare brand on the market at the moment, and one of my absolute favourites. I adore this cleanser so any secret admirers, feel free to hand it over to the Postman. Available here.

 

Initial Necklace (€24.63):

These dainty necklaces look far more expensive than they are at €25. Absolute bargain. And, if you’re feeling completely cheesy, you can get your own initial added to the piece. Available here from Etsy.

 

Bando Getaway Passport Holder (€29.50):

Pair this with some plane tickets and you’re on to an absolute winner. Available here from Hippenings.

 

Fuschia The Eye Collection – Galaxy (Was €65 – now €25):

Well known Irish brand Fuschia always deliver on quality. And, at this price tag – who could resist? Available here.

 

Mionetto DOC Treviso MO Prosecco (€21.95) – OVER 18s.

If she’s a champagne and chocolates type of girl, this prosecco is a great option. Available for store pick-up from O’Briens Wine.

 

Parks London Champagne Scented Aromatherapy Candle (£9.99):

Usually these candles cost upwards of €30 but they are currently available on the TK Maxx website for £9.99 (UK sterling). Snatch one up quickly because the supply is limited.

 

Blank Canvas Master Series Palette One (€34.95/ Currently €29.36 from Cloud10Beauty):

Barely making it in under the €30 mark, this gorgeous palette was a huge sell-out at Christmas and is currently on sale here at Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

Ziaja Cocoa Butter Gift Set (€9.99):

Ziaja is a completely underrated brand and their cocoa butter range is simply divine. Effective products that smell like chocolate – sold! Available here at Originalbeauty.ie.

 

Compass Bracelet (€12.29):

For anyone who suffers from “wanderlust” available here from Etsy.

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

The Balm – Meet Matt(e) Hughes – Review.

Oh my god, this one has been sent from lipstick heaven. My only question is, why does anyone wear anything else? The Balm is an entirely new brand to my make-up bag. I mean, I’ve heard of it, with many bloggers raving about the cult favourite “Mary Lou Manizer”, but I had never tried any of the products until last week. Now, there’s no turning back.

“Meet Matte Hughes” is a liquid lipstick which creates a gorgeous matte finish and while it dries on your lips, it doesn’t dry out your lips. This means no fading and more importantly, no lip prints. We can finally eat and drink without fearing lipstick smear!

I was lucky enough to be sent the shade “Committed”, which is a fabulous nude/pink colour:

  

This product is really easy to apply using the “doe-foot” applicator which means that I haven’t been using lip liner. Look how huge my lips are! That one is all thanks to the mint extract in the formula, which acts as a natural lip-plumping agent. Kylie Jenner, you won’t be needing those fillers any longer.

Obviously, when you fall in love with a lipstick formula, you need to purchase it in many shades. Well, perhaps only if you have a shopping addiction. But, for once, I was delighted that I do. You probably all know that I favour a classic red lip above all other make-up looks so check this out:

This shade is “Loyalty” and holy smokes, is it fabulous! Again, with the lip plumping and eeeeek that colour – the perfect red!

“Meet Matte(e) Hughes” liquid lipstick is available in 8 different shades – all of which are on my wishlist. You can purchase here at Cloud 10 Beauty for only €15.50, which really is a bargain for such a high-quality product.

What is your favourite shade? Help me choose my next one!

Rouge x

Daily Make-Up Look on a Budget (The College Edition).

Quite a few of those who regularly read this blog are students and as you all know, college is a very expensive luxury. So, when I write about “high-end” products, I know that many of you are scoffing at the notion of spending €50 on foundation or €30 on a new lipstick.

Surely there must be a more affordable option? Well, today I have raided my make-up collection to put together an everyday look, using only “drugstore” products.

If you are not using a primer underneath your make-up, you need to invest in one. It will keep your foundation in place for considerably longer meaning that you won’t be practically barefaced come that 3pm lecture. I love this “Illuminating Primer” from Flormar which is available here for just €9.95. It’s really hydrating and should sooth skin which is sensitive to winter weather.

After applying primer, I always use a little liquid highlighter to brighten my complexion. I’m really enjoying this Botanic’s “Radiance Balm” which is available here for just €3.99. Apply lightly under foundation for a soft glow.

When it comes to choosing affordable products, I find it particularly difficult to fall in love with foundations. I am a Charlotte Tilbury fanatic but if I was on a strict budget, I would pick up this “Flawless Cream Foundation” from MeMeMe. It provides lovely, even coverage and is available in pharmacies nationwide for €15.99.

I rarely use bronzer when creating daytime looks because I’m so pale, and because I enjoy the extra few minutes in bed. Therefore, I really need a good blush to give my face some colour. I really like this Sleek blusher in the shade “Rose Gold” because it has a strong pigment which will last all day. It is also a great dupe for the Nars cult favourite “Orgasm” and is available at Cloud10 Beauty for just €5.99.

A good mascara is a must in my beauty book but, it is incredibly difficult to find a high quality formula at an affordable price. I really like Flormar’s “Spider Lash” which does exactly what it says on the packaging by giving an elongated effect, reminiscent of spider legs. Slightly gross imagery but really good results. Available here for just €4.95, this mascara is almost as good as my trusty Lancome “Grandiose” and that is a pretty big claim!

When creating a daytime look, my final step is always a pop of subtle lipstick. Go for something neutral like this Wet n Wild formula in “Bare it All” so you don’t look “over done”. At €2.99 this lipstick is a bargain so you can pick up as many as you like without feeling an iota of  guilt. Wet n Wild is available in pharmacies nationwide and in Dunnes Stores.

The final look you ask?

A “barely there” look which gives the illusion of flawless skin. And all for the grand total of €43.86 – that’s a heck of a lot of products for under €50. Student make-up bag? Sorted..

Rouge x

Seasonal Skin Saviours.

As soon as the central heating is turned on, my skin falls to bits. Literally, falls – from my face because its so dry! Is that really necessary? And you thought that only snakes shed their entire skin!

Over the past few weeks I have devised a fool-proof formula to maintaining healthy skin which mainly entails slathering the following products on my face, on repeat.

Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Soothing Emollient Care (€9.00):

  

This stuff is absolutely amazing. Designed for very dry, atopic skin, this moisturiser soothes dry skin immediately upon application. It actually feels like a facial in a tube. I have been using this cream for approximately two weeks now and as the weather gets colder, I am applying it daily. I find that it is particularly good when applied underneath make-up along with a primer, giving a flawless finish. This cream is suitable for all ages and so affordable, you won’t even mind sharing it with family members. You can purchase here at Cloud 10 beauty.

Ren Vita Mineral Omega 3 Optimum Skin Oil (€28.00):

  

This one is designed to boast radiance while preventing premature ageing. Loss of radiance in the complexion is a huge issue throughout autumn and winter so I have been using three drops of this formula before applying moisturiser every second night. I don’t think daily use is necessary because like all facial oils, this formula is quite rich. Skin feels soft and refreshed in the morning after application. Again, I found this product online at Cloud 10 beauty.

Holos Good Night Rich Night Cream (€16.60):

  

Did you know that your skin repairs itself while you sleep? That’s why a good night cream is essential. Currently, I am really enjoying this offering from Irish brand, Holos. This night cream is a favourite of Marissa Carter’s and at €16.60, it is an example of quality skincare at a steal. The formula is filled with essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and rose so is therefore naturally, strongly scented. I’m not a huge fan of the lavender scent but it really helps promote deep sleep and soothes irritated skin. Again, I have been using this every three nights, rather than nightly because my skin is sensitive to rich products.

What do you think? Do you suffer from sensitive, dry skin during the winter months? I would love to hear your tips – especially any cost effective remedies!

Rouge x

What do you think