Valentine’s Day Fragrances, for Her

“All you need is love but, a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” – Charles M. Schulz.

A few weeks ago, I wrote a little post detailing my top picks for Valentine’s Day gifts, for her. The post was really well received and I’m pretty sure there’ll be a lot of lucky ladies delighted with their Too Faced “Sweet Peach Palette” tomorrow morning but, I’ve had lots of last minute requests for another post – one based on perfume and how to choose the perfect scent. So, I’ve had a look through my own collection and studied some new releases and now, I’ve come up with a list of fragrances that would make great gifts. We’re going to divide these perfumes into categories of: sweet, seductive and floral scents. So, there’s something to suit everyone here.

Sweet Fragrances:

Viktor & Rolf “Bonbon” : €66 – €125 (Available Here).

“Bonbon” is a sweeter, more fruity version of Viktor & Rolf’s cult favourite “Flowerbomb”. This fragrance has obvious notes of caramel which make it softer than its sibling scent and perhaps a better option for those who prefer light perfumes, rather than strong scents.

Marc Jacobs “Daisy Kiss” : €69 (Available Here).

“Daisy Kiss” is a new release from Marc Jacobs, just in time for Valentine’s Day. The original “Daisy” fragrance was actually my first high-end perfume purchase so this collection will always have a special place in my heart. “Daisy Kiss” is one of three scents in the new collection and this one is definitely the sweetest scent. It has some very fruity top notes of Valentine pomelo and apricot nectar with some soft, musky base notes and a hint of cedarwood. “Daisy Kiss” a really fresh fragrance and would be perfect for everyday wear.

Mugler “Angel Muse”: €54 – €76.80 (Available Here).

I was gifted this perfume shortly before Christmas and it is gorgeous. It’s definitely a perfume for chocolate lovers as it contains some sweet notes of cocoa and hazelnut. If the lady in your life loves a sweet perfume that lasts all day, this one is a great option.

Floral Fragrances:

 

 

Viktor & Rolf “Flowerbomb Extreme”: €103 (Available Here).

This fragrance from Viktor & Rolf is a really strong floral option for those who love a bold scent that lasts all day. Also, the packaging is gorgeous and will be a welcome addition to any lady’s dressing table. “Extreme Flowerbomb” has notes of Arabian jasmine and vanilla which make it a strong, floral and intoxicating fragrance.

Jo Malone “Red Roses Cologne”: €54 (Available Here).

The “Red Roses Cologne” from Jo Malone is probably the ultimate Valentine’s Day fragrance. It literally smells like a bouquet of freshly cut roses with notes of lemon for a citrus finish.

Seductive Fragrances:

 

 

Hugo Boss “The Scent For Her”: €59 – €115 (Available Here).

 

Now, this is a fragrance that I don’t have in my own personal collection but when the lovely Fiona from Perfumenotes.ie recommended “The Scent For Her” to me, I made it my business to pop into my local Debenhams for a sniff. And, it’s GORGEOUS! This scent is powerful, yet very feminine with top notes of honeyed peach, freesia and base notes of cocoa. This is a seductive, heady fragrance that I think would be gorgeous for night time. Want. Need. Must have. I cannot wait for pay day!

Tom Ford “Velvet Orchid”: €68 – €133 (Available Here).

“Velvet Orchid” is my favourite fragrance of all time. I have repurchased this one at least three times and I still LOVE it! It’s definitely a really strong fragrance, and lingers on the skin all day so this isn’t a pick for those who prefer light, fresh perfumes. However, the notes of citrus, honey and rum in this fragrance make it a really luxurious and seductive scent.

Armani “Si Intense”: €95 – €125 (Available Here).

Armani “Si” is a well known cult favourite perfume, worldwide. It’s loved by ladies of all ages. “Si Intense” is a sibling scent of the original and with notes of Sicilian bergamot, mandarin oil and blackcurrant liqueur; it’s more intense, sultry scent. I’ve had this one in my collection for years and I’ve never tired of it. Its a gorgeous, softly seductive perfume.

And there you have it – a complete guide to Valentine’s Day fragrances. Now all you have to do is decide which category the lady in your life falls in to!

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.

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

 

 

Dealz Winter Wonderland.

Maybe Christmas he thought, doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to preview the Dealz Christmas collection. Now I know what you’re all thinking – Christmas in October, really? However, as the saying goes; fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

Now, I didn’t know much about Dealz before I attended the event other than the fact that everything costs €1.49 and that my mother absolutely loves the store. Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised to discover an array of bargain buys – sure, I could fill a basket for under €20. What’s not to like? Whether you’re looking for decorations or stocking fillers, check out these Christmas steals!

Every single Christmas Eve, I find myself running around the house in a panic, searching for gift bags. Usually, after all the shops have shut. Dealz have some really cute options such as the duo pictured above. Two gift bags for €1.49? Sure, that’s practically making money.

If you have lots of visitors in your home over the Christmas season, your dishwasher will be in over-drive. Dealz have lots of home-ware options so why not stock up on some extras? These festive wine glasses are my personal favourite. Red is my self-declared power colour so I think I will be using them all year around.

If you have children in your home, you need to run to your nearest Dealz store and purchase as many of these sacks as you possibly can. My inner child is squealing with delight at the notion of personalised sacks, straight from Santa’s workshop.

Festive candles are a must in my household, and my mother’s scent of choice has always been cinnamon. Now, usually we purchase a few luxury candles, ranging in price from €15 to €40 but after smelling the candles which were burning in the Dealz Christmas showroom, I will be saving my money for other treats instead. Available in a few different scents, these candles are really fragrant and long-lasting – SOLD!

If you’re on a bit of a tight budget for Christmas, a great option is to purchase some affordable accessories in high street stores, remove them from their plastic packaging, and deposit them into swish jewellery boxes. Nobody need ever know that their gorgeous necklace came from the sale section in Penneys. This two pack of jewellery boxes is available in stores nationwide for €1.49.

The reality is that Christmas is all about the kids and at the moment, almost every child in Ireland seems to be obsessed with Frozen. I know a particular baby brother who would be delighted with this Frozen stationary set for writing his letter to Santa.

Alright, I know I said “kids” but you’re never too old for Disney, right? Could I please have these baubles for my Christmas tree?

I thought that these individually packaged Christmas crackers would make fabulous stocking fillers.

And, it isn’t Christmas without an advent calender. I have very fond childhood memories of scoffing all 24 chocolates in one go, only to mourn the loss for the remaining 23 days so maybe it is wise to purchase a few back-ups for any greedy chocolate monsters.

And, if that wasn’t enough chocolate for you, Dealz have a huge range of Christmas sweet sets. Smarties, Freddos, Malteasers – calories don’t count at Christmas!

Everything pictured in this post goes on sale in Dealz in November for €1.49. Will you be stocking up on any of the goodies?

Rouge x

Flormar Fabulous!

Ok, so anyone who is following me on Instagram or Twitter will know that I’ve become obsessed with Flormar, a brand who have just recently introduced themselves in Ireland. I’ve been posting little snippets of my favourites for weeks now, so today I’m going to share a full post reviewing my must-haves.

With contouring remaining a huge trend on the make-up scene, a good bronzer is an essential tool in any kit. Check out Flormar’s ‘Bronzing Powder Face and Body’. Those of us who don’t tan will know that finding the correct shade of bronzer is a tough task, unless you favour the oompa loompa look. However, this Flormar powder is available in a perfectly subtle shade for fair skinned folk – result! The RRP of the bronzer is €9.95 and because it is positively huge in size, the value for money is insane. I’ve been using the product by applying it to the hollows of my cheeks with an angled contouring brush.

Next up, I am madly in love with the ‘Long Wearing Lip Gloss’ in the shade ‘Backstage’. When I first received this colour in a goodie bag, I was majorly apprehensive of the super bright shade. However, I quickly learned that the formula can be layered for desired colour intensity. At €5.95, I couldn’t walk past one of these glosses in a pharmacy without picking it up.

Finally, we have my favourite Flormar product. This ‘Illuminating Primer Make-Up Base’ is liquid gold. I’ve tested it for both day-time and night-time wear and love the results. The formula creates a smooth base for make-up application. It is super hydrating and evens out dry patches while retaining a mattifying effect on skin. The best part is that the primer ensures that make-up remains on the skin for an extended period of time, eliminating the need for foundation touch ups. At €9.95, this product will be replacing more high-end versions in my make-up kit.

Here’s a look at the three products discussed upon application:

Flormar products are available in selected pharmacies nationwide and online at Simplyfoxy.com. What do you think? Will you be purchasing?

Rouge x

The Body Shop ‘Virgin Mojito’ Range.

If you follow me on any form of social media, you will know that I am a huge fan of cocktails. In fact, I have been known to drag unsuspecting friends out for brunch simply for some fruity refreshments. My favourite, you ask? Well, James Bond can keep his Martini – make mine a Mojito. The zesty lime and tingling mint flavours make a Mojito and experience for the senses. They not only taste great, but also smell delicious so when I heard that The Body Shop were releasing a ‘Virgin Mojito’ range, I expected to be a huge fan.

  

I was sent the ‘Virgin Mojito Body Scrub’, ‘Virgin Mojito Body Sorbet’ and ‘Virgin Mojito Body Splash’ and have been using them in that sequence for the past two weeks. Initially, I’ll admit that I was a bit apprehensive. I mean, I love the smell of Mojitos, but what would the people at work think? I didn’t want anyone under the illusion that I’d undertaken a new diet involving cocktails for breakfast!

I needn’t have worried, The Body Shop have created this range based on the Caribbean scents associated with Mojitos, rather than the alcoholic ones. Each product unleashes a burst of fruity fragrance upon application so steer clear if you’re not a fan of sweet scents but, I for one am OBSESSED!
  
First up, we have the ‘Virgin Mojito Body Scrub’. This is my favourite product of the range. I’ve been applying it to dry or slightly damp skin and massaging before rinsing it off in the shower. It’s a very gentle scrub so if you’re looking to remove lashings of false tan, you may need something more heavy-duty but this is perfect for regular, everyday exfoliation. My skin has become significantly more healthy looking after just two weeks of use.

  
Next, I’ve been using ‘Virgin Mojito Body Sorbet’. I wasn’t a huge fan of the texture of this lotion when I began using it because it is a gel consistency rather than a cream one. I love my rich, luxe body butters but after using the  ‘sorbet’ formula for a few weeks, I have grown used to it. Due to the fact that it is a light moisturiser, this product would be perfect for those with oily skin.

  
Finally, I have been drowning myself in the gorgeous ‘Virgin Mojito Body Splash’ after every shower. I just cannot get enough of this scent. The fragrance is zesty and sweet, ideal for the summer season. It also clings to skin for hours after application so it is great value for money. I’ve actually been reaching for it in the place of expensive perfumes lately.

Overall, this range is well worth a look if you enjoy a fresh, fruity fragrance. If you want more information you can visit The Body Shop’s website.

What’s your favourite skincare range at the moment?

Rouge x

‘The Tan’ – My Review.

Every single day for the past 15 or so, my phone has been sounding daily reminders which inform me that I am on “day 12″ of my ’30 Day Abs Challenge”. Yes, I am as lazy as sin but I’ve found a solution – I can’t tone it so I will tan it instead.

I was recently sent a bottle of ‘The Tan’s Super Hydrating Liquid Gel Tan’ to sample and review for you all. Now, you probably already know that I am the palest girl in the parish so, I use false tan fairly regularly. This means that I have become pretty critical so, if the formula isn’t perfect, I don’t want it. However, ‘The Tan’ ticked all my boxes.

‘The Tan’ is the brainchild of Jennifer Butler and Jennifer Swaine, owners of the Vanity Rooms salon in Dublin. They’re experts in their field, so obviously I expected this formula to be flawless. It promises a golden bronze colour without the hideous scent associated with false tan but, does it deliver?

You know that my seal of approval is difficult to gain, but The Tan has it 100%. I am in love with the perfect shade, watermelon scent and streak-free appearance of the formula. And, the best part is that the product is really hydrating. It contains hyaluronic acid, shea butter and sunflower oil so you don’t even need to apply moisturiser before application.

Check out my before and after:

This particular product retails at €22.99 which is pretty pricey but you need only use a small amount per application. After all the compliments I received whilst attending the Ed Sheeran concert in Croke Park this weekend, I will definitely be popping into the Vanity Rooms to try the professional spray version of the formula.

Why not visit The Tan’s website and check it out for yourself?

As always, let me know what you think!

Rouge x

Ziaja – Natural Olive Shampoo and Conditioner Review.

Recently, the lovely ladies at RD Communications introduced me to Ziaja, an Irish brand specialising in hair and skincare products. I hadn’t heard of the brand before and boy, was I missing out. This week, I’ve been testing their ‘Natural Olive’ shampoo and conditioner, as has my Mammy who has kindly delegated herself second opinion on all samples which come through the letterbox.

 

There’s nothing worse than dried out, limp hair. I’ve got 99 problems and split-ends are most definitely one. Ziaja ‘Natural Olive’ shampoo (€3.99) is paraben free and promises to gently cleanse the scalp while adding life to lacklustre hair. My only qualm with this product was that the little sample sized bottle made it difficult to gauge how much product was used – I generally ended up pouring far too much out which is just a waste of fabulous formula. I love the fact that this shampoo lathers really well and leaves my hair feeling squeaky clean.

I have been using the Ziaja ‘Natural Olive’ conditioner (€2.79) in conjunction with the shampoo and I have to say, it has my hair feeling silky soft. The formula is ensuring that my hair is tangle free after washing which means no more annoying knots. And, best of all, my hair is still maintaining lots of volume.

I liked these products so much that I’ve actually purchased the full sized versions for both myself and the Mammy.

What do you think? Have you tried this brand? If not, you can discover Ziaja here.

Rouge x

Cocoa Brown – Chocolate Whip Review.

Chocolate is cheaper than therapy, and you don’t need an appointment.

Last week, Kylie Jenner declared herself a fan of Irish beauty brand Cocoa Brown and launched the internet into tanning hysteria. So, we already know that the tan is one of the best (and my personal favourite) on the market but, what about Cocoa Brown’s ‘Chocolate Whip Oil-Free Body Moisturiser’? Some moisturising products react badly with false tan by breaking down the particles, causing it to fade unevenly from the skin. However, Marissa Carter claims her formula will “extend the life of your tan and ensure an even fade”.

First and foremost – the scent. Dear lord, I’ve died and gone to beauty heaven. This moisturiser smells exactly like sweet chocolate which is wonderfully luscious, unless you’re starving of course. This formula will make you smell good enough to eat so be cautious about slathering it on if you’re considering a visit to Coppers!

 

 The consistency of the formula is light-weight, smooth and it is slightly beige in colour. Due to the fact that it’s an ‘oil-free’ product, it absorbs quickly so there’s no sticky residue. ‘Chocolate Whip’ is not only hydrating but also nourishing for the skin because it contains ingredients such as Vitamin E and panthenol which are known to strengthen skin.

I’ve been using ‘Chocolate Whip’ as my daily moisturiser for approximately two weeks and have noticed a visible difference in my skin which is now softer and glowing. I also like to use the formula before and after applying false tan because it helps extend the life of the colour and allows the particles to break-down and fade evenly. I will definitely be re-purchasing.

Cocoa Brown By Marissa Carter Chocolate Whip Oil-Free Body Moisturiser (€4.99 for 200ml) is available in Penneys, Primark, Boots Ireland, Tesco Ireland, Heatons, Superdrug, pharmacies nationwide and online via Cloud10Beauty.com & FeelUnique.com.

Have you tried ‘Chocolate Whip’? If so, I’d love to hear your feedback!

Rouge x

“I’m Tellin’ you that Science has Proved, that Heartaches are Healed by the Sea”.

Growing up, my fondest memories centre around family summers spent on the beach in County Donegal. Roaring ocean waves and the squidgy feeling of wet sand between your toes – that is my personal heaven. Unfortunately, now that I’m working full-time I rarely get to visit my old friend, the Atlantic Ocean. However, it would appear that Jo Malone understand my issue and have therefore taken my piece of paradise, bottled it and sold it back to me in the form of the most exquisite perfume I have ever purchased.

  
I have been searching for a signature scent for some time and when I read about Jo Malone’s “Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne”, I sauntered off to my local Brown Thomas to sample the scent. I was simply blown away by the customer service as the associate whom I spoke with took the time to talk me through some of Jo Malone’s most popular products. I was even treated to a complimentary hand massage which was divine.

Firstly – the packaging. Jo Malone products scream luxury and that is reflected in the cool, sophisticated nature of their packaging. They have incorporated a “Just Because” theme in their wrapping and packaging recently which highlights the fact that it need not be a special occasion – treat yourself or somebody else “just because” you feel like it. This is a sweet little touch, and I really appreciated it.

  
So, what about the scent? 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. I can envisage this perfume being my favourite for years to come.

 

 Jo Malone “Wood Sage and Sea Salt” retails at €102 for 100ml and is available in Brown Thomas:

http://www.brownthomas.com/wood-sage+sea-salt/wood-sage+sea-salt-cologne-100ml/invt/81x1814xl415010000

Do you have your own signature scent? I’d love to know!

Rouge x