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

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 “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 

 

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 Christmas Gift Guide – For Him.

From Dads, to brothers, to boyfriends – men can be a difficult bunch to choose presents for. So, in order to save you the hassle, we have compiled a little list of suggestions – don’t worry, you can thank us later.

Painted Clans – Hand Painted Contemporary Irish Crests.

 

I guarantee you that every single Daddy in Ireland would be absolutely delighted with the gift of a hand painted family crest this Christmas. Irish men take huge pride in their family identity and these pieces from Painted Clans provide the opportunity to create a new heirloom, which could be passed down through generations.

The artist, Brendan McCarey, hand paints each crest using acrylic paint – making it a “one of a kind” piece, unique to your family. On the back of the frame, there is a small piece of information about the family history and a column explaining the meaning of each element of the crest. I will actually be giving my own Dad one of these personalised works of art on Christmas morning, so watch this space for a full post on the finished piece.

For more information, or to request a digital preview of your family/country crest you can contact Brendan at paintedclans@gmail.com.

The Old Jameson Distillery – Guided Tour.

 

Now, this is one that I think I would enjoy myself. Visit the original Bow Street distillery and discover the Jameson Irish Whiskey story, where the last chapter is drinkable. The guided tour provides some interesting background information on the brand created by John Jameson, followed by a tasting experience and the presentation of the “Jameson Whiskey Tasting Certificate”. The best part? Tickets are only €13.50 if you book them online at Jameson.

Tommy Hilfiger – Shirt.

 

If you want to go down the fashion route, I am a firm believer that you cannot go wrong with a classic Tommy Hilfiger shirt. They are well fitted, elegant and extremely attractive – any man would be lucky to own one. The plain navy option is a favourite of mine, and this one is available here. For more colours and styles, you can check out the Tommy Hilfiger website.

Ziaja Men – Christmas Set.

 

If you are sick to death of the men in your life “borrowing” your expensive moisturiser, why not treat them to some skincare of their own? Ziaja are a great brand who provide high-quality products, at affordable prices. This set includes a moisturiser, shower gel and anti-perspirant for less than €10. Yes, less than a tenner – that even leaves you with some excess cash for make-up treats. All Ziaja products and gift sets are available at originalbeauty.ie.

Jack Black – Beard Grooming Kit.

 

“Movember” may be over, but it looks like beards are here to stay. So, if any of the men in your life have joined the beard brigade lately, they’re sure to appreciate this beard grooming kit from Jack Black. “No frills attached”, just soothing formulas to keep skin and facial hair moisturised and healthy. This one is available for €37.95 from Cloud 10 Beauty.

Hugo Boss The Scent – Aftershave.

 

You cannot go wrong with the gift of high-end aftershave and, Hugo Boss produce some great options. “Hugo Boss The Scent” is their latest offering – filled with notes of ginger and leather, it has a lovely rich, full-bodied scent. This one is available in pharmacies nationwide and online at Debenhams for €91 (100ml).

Ted Baker – Leather Wallet.

 

Every man needs a good quality leather wallet. This one is classic, elegant and will hold it’s value for years – a worthy investment. Available from Ted Baker for €75.

 

And that is a wrap. Let me know if you have any further gift giving ideas – I have four brothers to purchase for so I would love to hear them.

Rouge x