Current Skincare Routine - ft. French Skincare Favourites

I have shaken up my skincare routine as of late, adding in some new products as well as relying on some golden oldies. My skin appears to be loving this combination (aside from the normal breakouts). I hope you enjoy this blog post and that it helps oily combination readers! I've written a previous post on this which can be read by clicking here.

My Skin Profile:

My skin type is oily combination. This means that during the day I have to rely on products that keep my oil at bay whilst being nourishing enough that I don't develop dry patches. However at night I like to really feed my skin, using a thick cream for dry sensitive skin. This isn't something I'm scared of and it works for me despite what it may say on the packaging! I'm certainly no expert so any advice would be much appreciated! (For some fabulous advice head on over to Caroline Hirons blog, she is the QUEEN of skincare and my first stop when my skin isn't happy!)

Morning Routine:

I start my day by washing my face with the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel for Oily Sensitive Skin. This is beautifully gentle, doesn't lather up too much and doesn't leave my skin feeling tight or dry. I do this more often than not in the shower. Then I pat my face dry and use a little Bioderma if some of my pesky eye make-up has evaded the night time cleanse. Then I apply the Bioderma Sebium Mat Moisturising Mattifying Fluid all over my face. This moisturiser sinks in very quickly but leaves my skin feeling plump and hydrated. Then I put a tiny amount of the Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner on my cheeks, chin, nose and between my brows (where my pores are more noticeable). As an eye cream I apply Bioderma Crealine Eye Contour Gel. This acts as a lovely base for my concealer and acts as a nod to looking after my skin in an attempt to prevent aging. Day to day I rely on the SPF in my makeup hence the lack of it here.

Night Routine:

Firstly I remove my eye makeup and brows with Bioderma Micellaire water on some cotton rounds. I can't imagine life without this product (but I have tried the Garnier water and it isn't a bad alternative). Then I go to the bathroom and depending on how much makeup I have on, I either use the Argan + Argan Oil Skin Awakening Cleansing Oil - if I have heavier make-up - or I go straight to the La Roche-Posay cleanser. In both situations I second cleanse with the gel cleanser to ensure I have every last scrap of face make-up off. I then pat my face dry. 

With a clean face I apply the Bioderma eye cream again and then Oilatum Natural Repair Face Cream all over my face. Oilatum is a product that I've used for years now and my skin looks so plump and hydrated when I wake-up in the morning. I can't see my routine without this, especially as it is so affordable!

The Occasional Life Savers:
Occasionally my skin needs more than this relatively simple routine and requires certain products for certain reasons. When I'm breaking out a lot I love this clay mask. I pick it up for under five euros in France (hate to think what's in it) and it really does the job. It does make my fave a bit red but it leaves it feeling extra clean.
I don't use toner every day because I feel it sometimes strips my skin too much. However I do occasionally tone my skin and when I do I use the Clinique Clarifying Lotion for combination oily skin.
When I feel a spot coming on or have an active breakout I really like using La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo as a spot treatment. I feel this does a good job but won't get rid of them completely. When a breakout is at that awkward dry/flaky stage I occasionally use some Sudocrem, Lush Ultrabalm, or Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour cream - but just on the dry skin.
As a full on SPF I use the Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 50 UVA and UVB. This stuff does really work but I find it hard to use on my oily skin under makeup and I'm not entirely convinced that it hasn't broken me out this summer. I'm certainly in the market for a new SPF for a more day to day use. Any suggestions would be much appreciated!

I'd like to reiterate that skincare is not an exact science. These are just the products that work for me. As the weather changes I'll inevitably need to tweak this routine slightly. I'll keep you posted if and when I do.
Lots of love, C xxx

P.S. Useful links for picking up French skincare brands:
http://www.feelunique.com/ (sells: Bioderma, La Roche Posay and Vichy)
http://www.beautybay.com/embryolisse/ (sells: Embryolisse)

How to Survive Freshers Week - University Series

It's getting to the stage in the year that either you're about to head to uni or you're already there. So I thought I'd give a few tips and ideas to help you through the madness that is - freshers week.
Freshers week in the UK tends to be either 1 or 2 weeks in the first semester of university, where the uni and the clubs in town put on events every night. This tends to result in 2 weeks of very heavy drinking, eating copious quantities of takeaway food and catching the inevitable 'freshers flu'. The concept of freshers week is certainly odd and, whatever people may say or think, it isn't for everyone. Drinking ridiculous amounts with people you've known for a matter of hours (or at best a few days) and then going to the worst clubs in town to listen to shit pop music, throw up, eat takeaway, sleep until 2pm and then repeat for 7-14 days... in hindsight it does sound weird!

I lived with and went to uni with people who saw freshers as the best week of there life. For me, freshers weeks improved through the 3 years. Certainly I did not find my freshers week easy. I was really homesick, found I was far shyer that I thought, hid in my room and hated where I lived. The first night in uni I went out and didn't enjoy it at all, and that terrified me. Now I know that I was probably not ever going to enjoy it because I simply don't like those kinds of nights out and I was generally not in the right mood to have fun. It freaked me out so much at the time. I remember being in the taxi home (at like 1am) thinking "if this is what uni is like, I'm not going to last a week". I went out 2-3 times across Liverpool's 2 week long freshers. Most people went out every night or every other and the least. But like most people I luckily made friends with another girl who wasn't enjoying the clubbing and going out and she really helped me push through until term started. Maybe you're thinking "who is she to tell me how to survive uni if she hated it?" Well I'm hoping here to help people like me but also those who will love the freshers week lifestyle. I want to be real and hopefully make you feel more relaxed about the madness that is FRESHERS.

If you want to read more about my university experience, I've done a post on it here.

Don't hide in your room. 
I did this and it did me no favours. You may well be feeling sad and homesick but being on your own won't help - I learnt this the hard way. Go into your communal areas, bring some chocolates to share around and offer to make everyone a cup of tea. It's small things like these that will help you to get on with your flat. Also if you're not into clubbing or drinking, by being present in the flat my experience has generally been that people don't care if your not on the night out as long as they get to meet you in other ways.  You make more of a bond and friendships in the flat than on a night out.

If you don't want to go out, then don't.
There is nothing worse than going out, spending money, drinking lots and not even enjoying it. If you know you're not in the mood for loud music and drunk people then either don't go or see if others feel the same and offer to do something else. I wish I had been more confident in saying this. Clubbing isn't for everyone. There are so many other things you can do! If you go out when you don't want to you'll generally not have a good night and you'll probably end up resenting it!

Go to predrinks even if you're not going out.
Predrinks are a heavy feature in freshers week. If your flat is where people congregate then it's probably going to get loud. For this reason (and because they are often the best bit of the night) I'd recommend joining in. You don't need to drink, just being there will do wonders for meeting new people and making friends. They're also a great opportunity to actually get to know everyone (preferably not as much as you may find out by playing 'never have I ever').

If you don't go out prepare for loud and rowdy people interrupting your sleep.
I'm afraid that this is a fact of life. Don't hold a grudge or become passive aggressive, that will only make things worse. If you've got to be up early then tell your flatmates that and just ask if they could try and keep the noise down. My logic was generally to ignore noise because it normally isn't loud for too long. Try not to adopt the "because they were loud on Monday I'm going to be loud tonight" approach. It won't make you friends and it just means you're as bad as them.

Be considerate.
When you come back at 4am don't decide that's a good moment to kick a ball around the corridor or to continue the party in your communal area. However we all get carried away, so if you are really loud then make a conscientious effort to apologise. This extends to those living in student houses too, many houses surrounding you won't be filled with students. Get to know your neighbours, introduce yourself, apologise in advance for any noise and suggest how they can contact you if there is a problem.

Don't get into messy habits.
Try and keep on top of your washing up. Don't let your living space get gross and then hope someone else will sort it out. That is a sure fire way to make some enemies. If you're clean in your habits it will also help encourage others to do the same.

Sign up to the doctors and get organised.
In Liverpool during freshers there aren't lectures so during the day there is often nothing to but sleep and eat cold pizza. However tempting this may be, I'd really suggest signing up to the doctors ASAP because they often won't see new patients in emergency appointments, meaning that when you next get ill you may not be able to see a doctor and have to waste yours and the doctors time in a hospital. Try and also sort out your space and your life too because it will make you feel a million times better and more at home.

Do other stuff (other than drinking) with your flat.
Suggest going for a meal or the cinema with your flat. Not only will this be good for the group, but it will also be great for those people you don't enjoy drinking and going out. Include everyone in these sorts of events because you don't want the tables to turn and subsequently not be invited on another occasion.

Eat as a flat.
I don't think I ever managed this but my boyfriends flat was awesome at it. His flat cooked and ate together every night until nearly christmas. Not only is it so much cheaper (cooking for one is very expensive) but they were super close and it gave them a chance to talk to someone about their day and how they're getting on. The added bonus, you get home-cooked food that will do you more good than 19p noodles from Tesco!

Eat before a night out, after a night out and drink lots of water.
Getting wasted is inevitable if you're partying your way through freshers. Help your body out by eating before you drink, aid the hangover by eating something when you get home and drink lots of water before bed. Obvious I know, but we've all been there and hangovers only get worse as you get older!!

Don't put yourself or others at risk.
Sorry guys, another mothering point. If, like me, you decide to go to uni in a city having lived all your life in a small village, you need to look after yourself and others. By this I mean totally straight forward things like; locking doors and windows, don't make your valuables easy to steal, don't walk home on your own or let someone else walk on their own and only take out the valuables you really need (AKA ID, preferably take out money before so you don't need to take out bank card, keys and phone). As an added extra I'd suggest bringing a cheap old phone and a pay as you go sim so that you can get a hold of home if you lose your phone. Also I'd recommend putting a list on the fridge with every ones names and mobile numbers.

Be safe.
If you have sex use protection. Don't let yourself get into a situation with someone where you feel uncomfortable. Tell your flat mates or a friend where you are going and who with. Yes this may mean ridicule at breakfast, but it's honestly the safest thing to do.

I hope this has been helpful. Remember to enjoy yourself, do what you want and throw yourself into it. I'm worried this is biased towards drinkers and sadly yes freshers is a drinking fest but if that't not your scene there are always tonnes of other things to do (signing up to clubs and keeping up with the uni's social media will massively help.) I think it's also important to say that uni isn't for everyone, if you're unhappy most uni's have a counselling service of sorts. Also keep in touch with home - your mum will be missing you and will be worrying, so help them out by letting them know you're ok.
Now go forth freshers and have fun.

Lots of love,

C xxx

August Favourites

August has been a months of holiday, relaxation and a severe lack of blogging (woops). I went to France for nearly three weeks and had a fabulous time with family and friends. Whilst there I may have indulged in some French goodies whilst in Sephora and the Parapharmacy (best place for French skincare). This three week break is heavily reflected in my favourites for this month. Although I don't have that many favourites this month I think I have collected some holy grail status products. Let's dig in.

POP Beauty Eyeshadow Trio in Peach Parfait 

This beauty came in my July Birchbox (an amazing birthday present from my best friend Bec). Not only are the shadows beautifully pigmented and super shimmery but they're all colours I wear. So often I find with palettes that I'm lugging around a large amount of packaging for 2 or 3 shades (ahem Naked 2 & 3). However with this it's so compact (smaller than Mac x2 palette) and versatile as the two lighter shades double as a very dramatic but very pretty cheekbone highlight. I think these are going to be a longstanding love. 

Beautyblender Original 

Ok so I've talked about the Real Techniques sponge before and I do really love it. However whilst at Sephora I spotted this and with the exchange rate this was quite the bargain. As much as it pains me to say it I do like the Beautyblender more. I can't quite put my finger on it but this is just so springy and puffs up so well that it makes concealer and foundation application a total dream. I would have to agree with the hype on this one.

L'Oreal Brow Artist Plumper in Dark Brunette (I think)

This brow product is a game changer. At £5.99 this is significantly cheaper than Benefits Gimme Brow (£13 on FeelUnique) and you get significantly more product too - win win. Maybe a blog post comparing the two might be useful? This gives your brows body, I know that sounds odd but it means that your brows look like brows. I wear this with my brow powder and on its own. Love it!

(Left to Right:) La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel

Bioderma Sebium Mat Moisturising Mattifying Fluid

Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner Corrective Care for Enlarged Pores

Bidoerma Crealine Eyes Eye Cream

My skin is loving a combination of these beauties. The foaming gel from La Roche-Posay is so gentle, lightly scented and is actually aimed for my skin - oily sensitive. It really grinds my gears that other ranges don't target products at this skin type because I believe that those of us with oily skin that is prone to breakouts should not be pushed towards products laden with alcohol and other stripping ingredients. Essentially it is just free from nasties, gentle and leaves the skin feeling clean but not dry and tight. 

The Bioderma Moisturising Mattifying Fluid is now my day time moisturiser and it's everything I want and need. I stopped using my Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion + because my face was just becoming unimaginably oily. This beauty leaves the skin feeling moisturised whilst not greasy or oily at all. 

The Bioderma Pore Refiner is a product I've had for a year now, it is still going strong and is still a main component of my morning routine. It visibly makes my pores look smaller and looks lovely under makeup. 

The Bioderma Eye cream came out of necessity. I've been using samples of eye cream from Benefit and Caudalie but couldn't face the prices of the full size products. I love this one, it is simple, sinks in quickly and sets a nice base under makeup. (I'm aware that French skincare brands aren't that easy to get hold of but feelunique.com is a good place for quite a lots of the stuff I've mentioned -  they event stock Bioderma now!)

What you really need to take to University or College: Packing list - University Series

Now we're into September and University term begins imminently I think it is time to delve properly into this University Series (for other posts in this series click here). What better place to start than with what you really need to take with you on your first adventure into the world of university life! I hope this is useful and helpful to freshers (and returning students).

1. Dressing gown
Sounds silly but this is going to be a godsend. Chances are where you live as a student is generally not all that warm. But with a trusty dressing gown instant warmth can be imparted, even over a fully dressed fresher! Aside from its heat benefits it also helps with modesty. I initially lived in halls where the bathroom was shared between 12+ people. Therefore a skimpy towel just doesn't cut it. Also useful if you have an ensuite when unexpected visitors venture in to your room after a heavy night out!

2. Flip flops
Ok ok I know this sounds odd. I know its heading into autumn and the cold, wet weather BUT flip flops are a super useful uni staple. Again if you share a bathroom they are brilliant for running too and from the bathroom. Also awesome for the hygiene conscious for middle of the night loo runs etc. You may be thinking "but its autumn and I'm going to look like a weirdo" but I can assure you there are some people who partake in this footwear choice come rain or shine!

3. Photocopies of driving licence/passport/phone contract/bank statement
This may seem obvious or boring but it really is an important one. Accidents will happen in uni, be that losing ID, bank card or phone (or everything at once). With having copies to hand you can quote numbers down the phone without having to totally rely on mum and dad. Along with this I'd really recommend getting some insurance for at least your electric valuables, I swore by Endsleigh.

4. Photos
When you're away at uni it is only natural to be homesick. Some will be more so than others (I was real bad!!). Putting photos up of family, friends and pets can really help make a room feel more homely. Halls have a tendency to lack personality so bring some with you. I was really lucky to have been given amazing collages from my friends for my 18th and 21st which were extra awesome because I didn't have to deal with the retribution of using bluetack or pins.

Special 21st birthday present from my best friend Alice 

5. Fancy Dress
Throughout uni you are going to be dragged along to the odd fancy dress event. Buying a costume can cost a bomb and lacks the homemade touch. I'd really recommend bringing along some easy options, for example  a school tie can be turned into: school uniform party/Hogwarts/Britney. Other good ones; Hawaiian lay, feather bower, tutu.

6. Tool Kit and Sewing Kit
Back on a boring one here but I was one of the only ones in my halls to have both. I bought a neat tool kit in Ikea which did me for the whole 3 years and saved our butts when a game of corridor football got out of hand. The sewing kit is not only useful for you but can massively help out others and can be used in the production of fancy dress. Neither have to be overly complicated or expensive but they can really be life savers.

7. Airer
This is another thing that you'll probably only need to buy once but will last you your time in uni. I got a brilliant one from Dunelm and it saved me a small fortune in tumble drying.

8. Fairy Lights, Bedding and Flowers
Going back to the unhomely-ness of halls, most have horrid florescent lighting which immediately makes it look like a public library. To combat this I'd suggest fairy lights. In my hall we weren't strictly allowed them but I had battery powered ones (Primark have the best) and they were ok. Also lamps can make a massive difference in making your room feel homely.
The first thing my mum did when I moved into my room was to make the bed. I think this instantly makes a room feel more lived-in and homely. I'd recommend finding out what size bed you have before going away and to get a spare set for emergencies or for those CBA to wash my sheets moments.

I also brought a bunch of fake peonies and a pretty jug which always made my room feel girly and cute. I did attempt to have real plants but always managed to kill them. My boyfriend has a rather impressive crop of cacti which may be a good option if you want some greenery for your room.

9. Fruit Bowl
My mum bought me a fruit bowl and filled it when she came up after Christmas in first year. This was in part because I was constantly getting colds and she thought I was lacking vitamins, but it was also a super clever move. By keeping a fruit bowl in your room it acts as a constant reminder to eat some healthy stuff and stops you from eating crap (I definitely just ate crap and everything in my fruit bowl).

10. Medical Kit
I bought myself a zip bag from Ikea which housed all my medicines for the whole three years. I'd recommend bringing paracetamol, ibuprofen, cold and flu, plasters, anti-septic cream and condoms (if they're not used by you then they can be massively useful for someone else!).

11. Bottle Opener
Last and very not least... a bottle opener/cork screw. Because at the end of the day you're a student and that will probably involve some drinking!

I hope this is helpful. Now go forth, be freshers, be safe, be you and have fun!!

**Taken to show the importance of a bottle opener! First year (very drunk) Scribbles by C!

June/July Favourites

I have a handful of favourites for the last couple of months and thought I would show what I've been loving. June was particularly lovely as I extended the celebrations of my 21st birthday and the end of my time at the University of Liverpool. July has been filled with work and graduation. 

Firstly a new foundation love. The L'Oreal Infallible 24H-Matte Mattifying Foundation in 10 and 20. There really aren't many negatives to this one. The coverage is medium/full. It is longwearing. It looks gorgeous on my oily skin. Plus the price is unbeatable - just £9.99. I agree with Desi Perkins, this foundation looks best applied with a beauty sponge, I use the Real Techniques one. I really think this one is worth a go, there is very little to lose at that price.

Secondly, because the weather has not been totally atrocious, I have been loving the Vichy Captial Soleil SPF 50 again. This is light-weight, high SPF, smells incredible and is very reasonably priced. I bought mine on feelunique, only £14.50 which is considerably less that its counterparts (eg. Keihls sun cream). 

Thirdly, I think everyone can agree that the summer months equal bronzer and highlight. On my oily skin I find highlighter a tad tricky. That's why I prefer to use Benefits High Beam. I have to apply this under my foundation/powder otherwise I just look far too shiny. By applying High Beam in this way it adds a very subtle shimmer just where I want it - aka cheek bones, forehead and cupids bow. I've also been loving the highlighter from the Sleek Contour kit if you're looking for a powder product.

Carrying on on the theme of summer makeup, the St Tropez powder bronzer requires a mention. I got this years ago in a set with some self-tanner. Though the mousse is long gone, this continues to feature in the summer months or if I have fake tan on. It is a lovely red undertoned bronzing powder which really makes you look like you've had a few long days in the sun. 

The MAC Prolongwear Concealer in NC20 is another new addition which I have totally converted to. I can't see this not featuring in my routine. The coverage is unreal. The texture is light and it stays on forever. I love this under my eyes and as a highlighter between my eyebrows, down the bridge of my nose and on my chin. I think this way it looks really natural and works very well with my skin type which can be very tricky. Only bugger with this one is the packaging - not only is it in a glass container but the pump always gives you too much. 

This is part of a longer term investment, but I've finally bought my first MAC palette and single pan eyeshadow  - woodwinked. This is a shade that I heard about from Tanya Burr. It is a fabulous shade that blends out into the most amazing multi-faceted bronze shade. It looks like three shadows which makes it wonderfully low-maintenance.

This bad-boy is a brow game-changer. The L'Oreal Brow Artist Plumper. I used to use Benefits Gimme Brow but I'm a convert. This again was a youtuber recommendation from Shaaanxo. Like Gimme Brow this thickens the brow hairs, adds colour and holds your brows in place. Again this is seriously well priced at £5.99. Only problem is that it does leave your brows very firmly set, almost crunchy.

This is another old favourite, Moroccanoil Treatment. Since going blonder around Easter my hair needs all the moisture it can get and I swear by this one. It is the only oil I've tried that actually seems to help fix your hair not just smooth it. Yes this is pricey but sooo worth it.

A bit of a random favourite but I'm loving gold jewelry. I bought this new Fossil watch and it has not left my wrist. I think it's perfect for summer, with a tan. This necklace is from Forever21 and was under £5. So pretty!

And finally some random favourites:

TV: RuPaul's Drag Race. Plain and simple.... FIERCE.

Music: Stromae. Belgian genius.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiKj0Z_Xnjc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAMWdvo71ls

P.S. Remus, one of my kittens, wanted to help me take these blog pictures. What a cutie!!

Face of the Day: Summer Bronze

I've recently been loving this bronzey look. It's perfect for these sunny summery days. I bought woodwinked from MAC as the first for a quad from MAC and it is as beautiful on as it is in the pan. When blended out it looks like 3 different shadows - stunning! 

To get things started I've been using Vichy Capital Soleil as my moisturizer and SPF everyday. It is light but makes the skin look lovely and dewy. On my oilier areas (AKA cheeks, nose, t-zone and chin) I used Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner. It mattifies and acts as a lovely primer. As a primer on my eyes I used a sample of the Anti-Aging Urban Decay primer. And on my lips I used NUXE Reve de Miel. 

As my base I have been loving L'Oreal Infallible 24H-Matte in 10 and 20. I apply the darker shade to the most of my face and then the lighter shade through the center of my face. This foundation wears beautifully whilst not being too heavy. Definitely worth the hype it's getting. As concealer I used my new favourite, MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NC20 under my eyes and a little dab on my chin, forehead and down my nose to highlight. To blend out the concealer I used my Real Techniques sponge. As powder I used my fail-safe Rimmel Stay Matte.

To add colour to my face I used Benefit Hoola Bronzer. As Blush I used MAC Springsheen and to contour I used MAC Harmony contour powder.

On my brows I used MAC Charcoal Brown eyeshadow and L'Oreal Brow Artist Plumper. I'm loving this brow product, it adds colour, keeps the shape of my brows and is very long-lasting.

On the eyes I blended Harmony powder through my crease and then put MAC Woodwinked all over the lid and blended it out over the crease colour. Then I used L'Oreal Super Liner Perfect Slim to create a very fine line just along the lash-line. I then curled my lashes and applied Benefit Roller Lash and Smashbox Full Exposure to add volume.

Brushes used (left to right): Real Techniques Buffing Brush, Real Techniques Blush Brush, So Eco Powder Brush, Sephora Angled Brush, Zoeva 227 Soft Definer Brush, Zoeva 234 Luxe Smoky Shader Brush, ELF Studio Small Angled Brush, Benefit Hoola Brush (for contour).

I think this is such a summery look I can't get enough of it!

Lots of love, C xxx

Review: Zoeva Classic Eye Set

Whilst at home at Easter, and after my student loan had been paid into my account, I treated myself to the Zoeva Classic Eye Set. I had been lusting after Zoeva brushes ever since they got sent out to practically every blogger out there! I chose this set because I'm always on the hunt for good eye brushes. My criteria isn't complicated but I'm quite picky, generally I want:

• soft not scratchy
• easy to wash
• don't shed
• picks up pigment well
• reasonable price

Basically I want brushes comparable to my number one.... MAC 217.

The one thing that held me back from immediately ordering this set was the cost once shipping and what not was added up. On the Zoeva website the price is in euros, €38. But including shipping and VAT the price went up to €45.50. No that isn't the end of the world but I thought I might be able to do better. So I ventured over to Beauty Bay where the cost including shipping etc. was £33.50. Not bad for 6 brushes in a nice clutch bag. 

They arrived quickly and immediately I loved them. They are a combination of natural and synthetic bristles with handles not to dissimilar from MAC's. They come in a lovely black faux leather clutch which is also super high quality. I've already taken it out to dinner with me a few times - it's the perfect size for the essentials. Now I've used the brushes and washed them quite a few times I feel like I can give a proper review. 

General comments: The handles are black with silver ferrule which is very tightly secured to the brush handle. They look professional and a lot like MAC or Sigma brushes. They have the name and number properly embossed onto the handle - amazing for us bloggers in case we forget!!

First up the 231 Luxe Petit Crease Brush (individual price on Beauty Bay: £6.95). The brush is made from Natural Goat Hair and is unbelievably soft. This pointed yet dense brush is perfect for crease work and gives a flawless blended look. This brush washes well and hasn't shed but has lost some of its shape and is therefore not quite so precise. But that is not an all bad thing because now it is even nicer for general eyeshadow blending.

227 Luxe Soft Definer Brush (£6.95). This is the closest to a 217 in the set. It is a fluffy blending brush made from Natural Goat Hair. Again this is wonderfully soft and that washed really well. It is slightly larger and less fluffy than a 217 but still does a very very similar job. It blends eyeshadow beautifully and is lovely for a one-eyeshadow look.

322 Brow Line Brush (£5.95). This is a bit of an unusual brush, it is intended as a brush to define the brow line with concealer or a shadow. It is made from Vegan friendly Taklon bristles which are very dense and stiff but still soft. This washes well and hasn't shed. I haven't really used this one so much but when I'm having a super defined brow day this does the job nicely.

234 Luxe Smoky Shader (£6.95). This was actually the brush I wanted most. Yes it is boring but it is also very very useful. Although I don't own it, it looks very similar to the MAC 239 (a whopping £21). This is a wonderfully soft Natural Goat Hair brush which is perfect for packing colour onto the lid. It has washed really well, held its shape and not shed. I personally now have no desire for the MAC one!

317 Wing Liner Brush (£5.95). I wasn't that excited about this one, I have a few angled brushes so this certainly wasn't one that I bought the set for. Nonetheless it is a really nice synthetic Nylon wing liner brush. I've used it for cream liner and shadow and it's given a fine to buildable look. I also tried it for my brows but it's a little fine for my bushy ass brows!! It's washed well and not shed but it isn't anything that special.

 Finally, 315 Fine Liner Brush (£5.95). This nylon bristle angled fine liner brush is really nice. I've used it with cream liner and once you get used to it it really works nicely. It is maybe a bit thicker than I'd choose but it is nice and stiff so it gives a really controlled line. It hasn't shed but (annoyingly) it is slightly stained black now even when freshly washed.

Overall I think these brushes are well worth the money. They are all soft and seem like they are going to last really well. If you bought them all individually they would come to £56.70 (plus £11.70 for the clutch) so the set as a whole is very good value for money. I am definitely interested in more Zoeva brushes in the future. Let me know if you guys like Zoeva!

Lots of love,
C xxx

*These brushes were bought by me and I'm not affiliated with any of the brands mentioned.

My University Experience - History Student in the University of Liverpool

This is the first post in a new University Series here on Scribbles by C. I thought it would be apt to talk through my own experience. So get yourself a cup of tea because this is going to be a wordy one.

It seems sensible to start at the beginning.

The Subject
I applied for history because I loved the subject, had an amazing teacher (who I owe an awful lot to) and had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I had friends who knew exactly what career they wanted but I was clueless... and I still am! I think that's one of the best pieces of advice I was given whilst doing my A Levels, just do the subject you love. If you love it you'll enjoy it and do ten times better than in a subject that you think might make you more employable or some other bullshit. So if like me, you don't know what you want to do, but know you want to go to Uni, apply for something you love. I can honestly say I love history as much today as I did as an 18 year old doing my A Levels.

The University
I am first and foremost a country bumpkin from South Wales but I wanted that to all change and to go to a University in a big city. Other than that I didn't really have any other major requirements. I remember everyone obsessing over the league tables of the Universities but frankly that couldn't matter less. If you are applying to one of the top Unis in the country then (as sad as some may think) you are always going to be seen as a cut above the rest. But, if like me, you were applying to Russel Groups (or Red Brick Universities) then there is very very little between them all. (I can't really comment on non-Russel Group unis because I am not in one!)
Choosing a Uni is very very personal. But I think the best advice I can give is this:

• Go to prospective universities open days - getting a feel for the city is important. This is somewhere you are going to spend 3 or more years of your life.
• Aim high but have an insurance -  I was lucky to have a teacher who encouraged us to apply for one (or two) universities which were asking for grades higher than you were likely to achieve. You never know they might just accept!! But this advice works in reverse too, so apply for one "safe" option that you feel very comfortable in achieving the grades.
• Don't be afraid to go far away from home and to a Uni no one else is applying too - this is a once (or not if you go on in academia) in a life time opportunity to live away from home in somewhere new. You will always meet new people so going to the same Uni as half your year isn't important. BUT it's up to you... If you want to be close to home then do that! This your choice.

For me I applied to Sheffield, Bristol, Reading, Birmingham and Liverpool. I got rejected from Sheffield and Bristol but offers from the other three. I attended open days for those three and for me Liverpool came out on top. Reading was my "firm" or "safe" option as I liked the Uni and felt like I could more than reasonably achieve the grades. 

Getting to Uni

So after sitting my exams and getting my results, I got into Liverpool. I then had a really amazing Summer holiday before making the move up to Liverpool. 

We definitely went over-board on stuff, I had sooooo much crap!! There will be an upcoming blog  post in this series on what you really need to take to Uni with you.

For me I struggled with friends who weren't going to Uni who did not "get" me wanting to move away and they made me feel almost bad for getting into Uni. Now I know that those aren't people that should be in my life, people should be happy for you, getting into Uni is an amazing achievement. 

Heading up to Liverpool on the day of moving in was incredibly emotional. My parents moved me in and it's safe to say I was an emotional mess. I had never been away from home without my parents for more than a week or so and that first night in Uni was tougher than I thought. 

Moving in and "Freshers"

Moving in and saying goodbye to my parents was pretty shit. There's no two ways about it, it was scary, new, emotional and exciting. I initially moved into Halls of Residence which were a shit hole. I hated my time there. It was so so loud with everyone partying every night. And yes I thought I would be one of those people but I just couldn't muster up the courage or enthusiasm for "freshers week". No I didn't want to go and get drunk every night with a group of complete strangers. I mean when you think about it, it is a really strange concept! 

So for the first 2 weeks of being in Liverpool I pretty much lived in my room and made a couple of friends, who happened to be like-minded about going out, but nonetheless it was a pretty tough time. I was terrified to ring home because I knew I'd cry and I really didn't want to upset my parents and make it seem like I was ungrateful for all the money they had spent on me going to Uni. I didn't really go out, except for the first night and it was cheesy and just awful!
I was upset in these first halls from the time I moved in until the time I moved out...which was 3 weeks later. Luckily Liverpool uni are really accommodating (punny I know) about moving halls and I moved in a day from my single bed, out of town, catered and shared bathroom halls, to a double bed, ensuite, wireless internet and catered on campus - it couldn't have been more different. It was like a huge weight had been immediately lifted and it just felt right.
For the rest of first year, other than the occasional (and very normal) bouts of homesickness I was actually super happy. I made life-long friends and met some totally strange and unlikely people who opened my eyes if nothing else! I had fun and took the classic first year approach of  "I only need to get 40% to pass". But I also tried hard to get into a routine with work and tried to keep on top of my reading. Naturally I didn't always succeed but I learnt more from this than if I had sailed through.

Second and third year
In second year I lived in a huge house with 8 other girls. It was an amazing experience. No I didn't put enough effort in with them and I look back and kick myself because of this, but at the same time I worked my butt off in uni and got into better habits with reading and essays. The only real low was getting the flu and attempting to write 3 essays and sit one exam in a week long period. As you might imagine that didn't go so well... But this is a vital moment to sing the University of Liverpool's praises as they helped me through the whole faff of not sitting an exam and organising re-sits and what not.
Then came third year. Nothing could prepare you for the workload. The three years really is all working towards this third and final year. It's so much work whilst the looming prospect of a 10,000 dissertation constantly at the back of your mind. But that all being said I've made more amazing friends on my course and found like-minded people who have made the whole experience so so fun.
In terms of housing I didn't choose right this year. I thought going back into Halls of Residence would mean I'd make more friends but also have somewhere safe and warm which required no phonecalls in the middle of the night to a landlord to get them out in an emergency. In that respect Halls have been amazing. But they've also been very restrictive and suffocating. I haven't made any friends here and therefore do all my socialising elsewhere. That is tiring shit. I love my friends and boyfriend being just down or up a hill but that means that I feel as though I am never home. The room I'm currently sitting in in my Halls still doesn't feel like mine, despite being mine for 6/7 months. It's weird.

So that is the story so far. I feel I can safely say that I've kind of done it with uni. I'm ready for the next step. Going from exam season to essay season and back again isn't fun after 5 consecutive years. I want to go out of this student bubble and see life-after-uni for myself. But University is an experience I would urge anyone to do. If you have a passion for a subject then the rest will fall into place.

I hope this has set the tone for this series. I know this was a long one but I felt it was important for some context.

Thank you for making it to the end!!
Lots of love, C xxx

ANNOUNCEMENT: University Series

This is just a quick blog post announcing an upcoming series on University. Now coming to the end of my time in the University of Liverpool, I thought it would be really useful (and hopefully fun) to discuss University life but make it as realistic as possible. A lot of things I read before coming to Uni did not prepare me, they just encouraged me to buy a load of shit that you just don't need. That is not what I intend to happen. I want this series to be real talk, how uni really was for me, some advice, goals and habits to get into and much more.

I wanted to get this series started now because the new university term starts in September here in the UK and wanted to have plenty of time to cover all of the things I think are the most important when it comes to being a university student.

So if anyone has any suggestions for posts please comment below!

I just wanted to also say that beauty blogging will go on as usual as well as this series, so for those who aren't students or aren't interested in me babbling about uni, then there will be other content to look forward to.

My Current "go-to" Makeup

Hello, how are we all? Me? Well, apart from nearly drowning in my dissertation, I am good. 

I thought I'd show you my current "go-to" face look, as this is quickly becoming the only way I do my face! It's pretty quick and obviously I change up the odd thing but in general it looks mostly like this!

Base:

Primer: Benefit Porefessional and Benefit High Beam on the areas I want highlighted.

Foundation: MAC Face and Body in N3 *this is one of the products which changes according to my mood and what I have planned for that specific day.

Concealer: Collection Lasting Perfection in 1 'Fair' and MAC Studio Finish in NC20 on blemishes.

Powder: Because I used Face and Body, I had to powder the shit out of my face, so, I used Rimmel Stay Matte in 001 'Transparent'.

Blusher/Bronzer: To bronze I used Benefit Hoola and took the brush it comes with (which is well worth keeping hold of - one of my favourites to contour with, especially seen as the Nars Contour brush was limited edition) to contour. Then as blusher, my new love, MAC Sheertone Shimmer Blush in 'Springsheen'. 

Eyebrows:

This was the first time I used Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade in 'Medium Brown'. I used the No.12 brush by Anastasia too. Safe to say I am in love!!

Eyes:

Primer: ELF Eyelid Primer in 'Sheer' (this stuff is the bomb and it's only £1.95).

Eyeshadow: Two matte shades from the Smashbox Full Exposure Palette - M2 and M3. Both are just blended with the brush it comes with through the crease.

Eyeliner: L'Oreal Super Liner Perfect Slim - I love the pen but hate the product, it transfers everywhere. 

Mascara: After using my Primark eyelash curlers I used Benefits new Roller Lash mascara which I adore!! It does everything I want and more.

Lips:

Lip Balm: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour cream but in the lipstick form

Lip colour: ELF Jumbo Lip Gloss Stick in 'Sangria Starters' and ELF Studio Matte Lip Colour in 'Praline' (which I think has been discontinued).

And finally a picture of me being a dick with my camera.... yeah well...But it does show how awesome Benefit's Roller Lash mascara is! (Insert emoji with girl with her hand up.)

Hopefully I'll be able to make more time for my blog over the next few months. 

Lots of love C xxx

(A Belated) Welcome to 2015!

Once again I'm starting a post with an apology. Blogging is my creative outlet and the lack of content definitely reflects my mood!! This past term (I'm in my third and final year) in University has been my hardest one yet. The workload has been insane and the dark mornings and dark early evenings has meant I'm constantly without enough light to take photos of products (blogger problems eh?). Hopefully with the improving weather - winter has surely got to be over soon??!!- I can get more blogposts up.

My current plan for 2015 stands like this:

• enjoy my last few months in uni with the people I love most
• work my butt off so I have no regrets when I graduate
• make more time to do what I love (AKA blogging)
• graduate
• have a wicked summer 
• move back home
• earn money
• travel

So here is to a happy new year!!

C xxx

Pamper Night-in... University Student Style

This week I thought i'd jump on the blogging bandwagon and talk about my recipe for the perfect pamper night in. Unlike other pamper related posts, mine is slightly different as I am focusing this on students. If, like me, you're in University accommodation it can be difficult to achieve an authentic pamper night in because some  of the necessities aren't allowed: yummy smelly candles and bubble baths! So, I thought I'd show my ways around this and maybe give some tips to students in a similar position to me- or just to those pamper addicts out there!

Mood

First and foremost the mood needs to be set. In my case that is making sure my bed has fresh sheets, my room is tidy and my uni work is all put away. Seen as candles are totally banned, I use battery powered fairylights to achieve my cosy night in. I know in some Halls plug-in fairylights aren't allowed but, as a tip, go for the battery ones and the Halls shouldn't have a problem with them as they aren't a fire hazard.

I think getting the mood right is super important, especially as a student, as University life can get pretty hectic and treating yourself to a chilled night-in doesn't get to happen all that often. So either invite your friends over or enjoy a quiet night to yourself!

                             

Comfort

Now to get comfy.. before my shower I like to lay out my favourite pjs and slippers, even putting them on the radiator so they are super snuggly to put on after showering.

Snacks

Another essential= SNACKS! For me it's all about a mug of peppermint tea and something Cadburys- in this case a half-eaten bag of Eclairs. Forget about the diet, tonights all about enjoying lifes small pleasures.

                           

Shower

 Because most student accommodation doesn't have baths I have to make do with a nice, long, hot shower. I like to put on some music and take my time. I am in love with Soap and Glory's Clean On Me shower-gel... it smells like heaven. Then I shave and exfoliate and wash my hair, using a hair-mask too!

Skin-care

After my scrubbing myself to oblivion it's time to get my skin-care on. First I apply a clay mask. I use one I buy in France in this giant tube; it's under £5 and is seriously deep-cleaning. Then I chill for 15-20 mins with that on and then wash it off. After that I need to pile on the moisturiser- Oilatum of course. Then use Sudocrem on my blemishes.

Body treats

 I take this time to give my body a serious pamper, so I apply the absolutely divine Sanctuary Spa Cocooning Body Butter. It smells beyond divine, like a super posh spa! I also apply Soap and Glory's Endless Glove handcream to my hands and feet. If I can face it I may also apply some fake-tan but that's less of a relaxing task (am I right?).

Nails/ Lips

 I tend to take this chance to give myself an at home mani-/pedi-. I'm currently loving the Rimmel Nail Nurse Nail Rescue. I always use a glass-nail file because it leaves no jagedy edges. Then I put a shit tonne of Nux Reve de Miel lip-balm on- it's the bomb.

Sit back and relax

Now to put on Netflix, read a book or whatever makes you happiest. Relax and enjoy. Forget about the stresses of imminent deadlines and just enjoy being cosy, warm and pampered to the max.

Here is my Current Autumn favourites youtube playlist, in case you wonder what I'm loving listening to at the moment: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrczl3MJHljra7rZJlF2dvup94oP5Zo2P

I hope you enjoyed this post. Keep your eyes peeled for most posts soon!
Lots of love C xxx