WINTER BEAUTY PICKS

The combination of bitterly cold days and drying central heating this winter has left my skin looking a little lacklustre and in serious need of a hydration boost. The Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel has continued to help to restore my complexion, the cleansing and softening vitamins and pumpkin enzymes of this dreamy pink gel cleanser work well to leave me with radiant, soft skin

I've also pulled out the Sanctuary Spa Therapists Secret Facial Oil for winter, this heavenly oil glides effortlessly over the skin and works wonders as you sleep. Rich in hydrating vitamin e, soothing frankincense and strengthening rosehip oil you only need a few drops to leave you with soft, nourished skin that glows.

Lastly for skin Lush's The Sacred Truth Face Mask has been my favourite skincare treat this month. The papaya enzymes work to exfoliate whilst moisturising honey nourishes the skin, the fresh ingredients combine to leave my skin looking younger, radiant and smooth.

For body care I've been using a dreamy duo to keep my skin silky soft. Packed with exfoliating sugar, vanilla and moisturising murumuru butter, Lush The Rough with the Smooth is the perfect fix for parched winter skin. Paired with a rich moisturiser like Soap and Glory Smoothie Star Body Buttercream they make the perfect match leaving my skin feeling pampered and polished.

On my nails, I've been keeping it simple this month, after December's glittery mani's a swipe of Essie's Apricot Cuticle Oil is all I've been wearing most days. If I do reach for a shade, It's been a pretty nude like Essie's Sugar Daddy, a gorgeous sheer pink polish which gives a delicate no fuss mani.

I've also been keeping my make up quite simple this month, opting for dewy, natural shades. A shimmery champagne pink like MAC's Naked Lunch is perfect to brighten up the eyes, concealing tired peepers effortlessly with just one swipe over the lids.

For blusher, MAC Well Dressed is my top pick for winter, the cool powdery pale pink tones are ideal for the icy cold days. Paired with a shimmery iridescent highlighter like one from the divine Sleek Solstice Palette they work together to give a healthy luminous glow to the skin.

For lips, I can't be without Nuxe Reve De Miel in winter. With honey, sweet almond oil and shea butter it's my lip saviour for the colder months. I've also been reaching for MAC Mehr daily, the latest addition to my lipstick collection this dreamy mauve pink shade is so flattering and a new firm favourite.

What are your beauty picks for Winter?

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JANUARY'S PINK FAVOURITES

Starting with a few lifestyle favourites, I've been scattering fresh flowers around my home this month to brighten things up a little and boost my mood on dark winter mornings. This dreamy cat mug is another new favourite, the ideal size for a hot chocolate it's been the perfect choice for icy days. I've also picked up knitting again, as I seem to do each new year, let's hope I can keep it up for a little longer this time!

Having finally discovered the allure of Lush's bubble bars last year, I had to include one in this month's favourites. So far, The Lush Rose Jam bubbleroon is my top pick, it creates a bath full of dreamy, soft pink bubbles and the scent is divine! I'm hoping to try The Comforter next, it sounds heavenly!

Another great discovery for me this month are Cheerz, who have made editing and printing out my photos and instagram snaps a dream. It's such a treat to have actual printed copies of my favourite photos, it's let me tick off my resolution to print out my photos already! Use the code SOP4WC for £4 off at Cheerz if you wanted to print some too!

For beauty, MAC's Well Dressed has perked up my complexion this month, it's cool toned pastel hue works perfectly with highlighted skin for a dewy complexion. Another pick that instantly freshens up my make up on these gloomy January days is the Nars Lip pencil in Yu, a creamy textured pigmented shocking pink that stays put for hours.

Lastly, I've been testing out Essie shades from this set for my wedding day mani and currently Essie's Sugar Daddy is sitting in the top spot. This delicate sheer pink nude looks so pretty on the nails, it looks like it would work perfectly for a french mani too!

What were your favourite products in January?

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VALENTINES PINK & RED LIP PICKS

With Valentines day right around the corner, I've been reaching for my favourite pink and red lipsticks. I'll probably just be spending Valentines day at home, in my favourite Asos pyjamas with Netflix and popcorn (I'm addicted to Reign!), maybe in the evening we'll rustle up a candlelit homemade meal to mark the occasion. Although we don't ever really do too much on Valentines, I love to wear a red or pink lip on the day!

The Pinks

I've given up hope for snowy winter days and so I've decided to embrace pink lips again and let a few spring picks creep their way back into my make up bag for the lead up to Valentines day. A current favourite and the one I'll probably end up wearing on the day is Revlon Sultry Samba. This pigmented creamy fuchsia packs a punch, it's a bold shade that pairs well with lots of mascara, a champagne highlighter and a nude pencil in the waterline.

Another favourite and strong contender for the day is Nars Yu, a shocking pink with an impressive formula. This budge-proof lip pencil feels soft and creamy on application and is a universally flattering shade, worn with dewy make up it's ideal for a fresh, healthy look.

My last pink pick Revlon Showy is a dupe for Chanel La Diva, this cool toned pink is remarkably similar to its high end dupe, albeit a little less long lasting. Luckily, the crayon style applicator means that it's easy to pop in your bag for application on the go and the pigmented formula means that you just need one swipe for lasting colour.

The Reds

Moving onto the reds, Nars Velvet Lip Pencil in Cruella is another top pick for Valentines day. I have only the highest praise for Nars lip pencil formula's, they're something else! Creamy, long lasting and pigmented this deep scarlet red is so comfortable on the lips and it's such a gorgeous shade!

L'Oreal Exclusives Lipstick in Blake is the one for dry, parched lips as the addition of Jojoba oil in this classic red lipstick helps to keep lips soft and hydrated. Great for date nights and paired with a shimmery highlighter dusted on the cupids bow this sophisticated red gives an effortless, polished pout.

Lastly, Clinique Cherry Pop is the latest red to my collection, a bright blue toned red with an inbuilt primer this perky bold red lasts well on the lips. It's the perfect shade for winter and Valentines day, how dreamy is the packaging!

What's your favourite pink/red lipstick?

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DRESSING TABLE SNIPPETS

In keeping with my plan to stay clutter free and organised this year, I've started off by spring cleaning my dressing table. I've had a huge clear out of my make up, giving some away and also selling a few things on depop. This year I'm hoping to keep everything fresh, clean and organised with my most loved products close to hand.

After my make up overhaul I took a trip to Muji to invest in some more acrylic drawers, they're so convenient and make reaching for my make up a dream! I originally wanted to pick up a single drawer but they don't seem to be available anymore, instead I picked up another two drawer, this time with a flip top for easy access to my everyday make up.

My Malm dresser drawer holds my seasonal Essie picks and a few favourite eyeshadows including the dreamy iridescent rose gold Nars Outer Limits and it's more affordable dupe Topshop Shuffle the Cards. I've also popped a couple of eye pencils in there to remind me to use them more often, the H&M Eyeliner in Grand Cru has such a creamy and pigmented formula, I really need to pick up another shade!

Fresh flowers and spring candles are a welcome addition to my dressing table this month, Diptyque Baies fills my home with a divine scent of blackcurrant and rose and the pink roses help to create a bright, fresh feel.
I also can't be without my Denman brushes, always having one close to hand. The Denman grooming brush is a current favourite, it helps to give me silky soft, shiny tresses and transforms tight curls into effortless soft waves with just a few strokes.

Lastly, I've toying with the idea of replacing my mirror, I love this copper hexagon mirror, something to make the centrepiece of the dressing table. Although I do adore the princess-eque feel of my mirror, it can get a little lost to the side.

What do you think of my dressing table set up?

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MUJI DRAWER TOUR

Investing in a set of acrylic Muji drawers has completely transformed my make up storage and dressing table area, plus it's made reaching for my make up a dream! I've recently added two more drawers to my collection, stacked on top of my previous drawers they hold my current favourite picks. Having everything out on display looks so inviting and pretty, it's also made switching up my make up so effortless, letting me chop and change my products around to suit my mood or the season with ease.

Currently, the top drawer is housing a few of my current favourites, the Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise in Jean is the latest addition to my stash, a dreamy shimmery champagne shade, this vitamin e enriched cream eyeshadow is a must-have for neutral eyeshadow lovers like myself. 

Another eyeshadow pick is the creamy, pigmented By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock, this shimmery lavender/taupe shade blends like a dream and once set is completely budge proof. 

Nars Alhambra is another great every day pick, a gorgeous eyeshadow duo consisting of two wearable, brightening shades. The formula is heavenly, buttery soft and super pigmented.

The Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Mood Exposure is a staple for me, this finely milled, silky soft blusher sculpts the cheeks effortlessly and the swirls of ambient lighting powder enhance the complexion, leaving it radiant and bright. I really must pick up another of these - they're divine!

For something a little brighter, I've been reaching for my H&M blushers, the Pure Velvet Cream Blusher in Hot Pink is a fresh berry shade that perks up the skin and the Pure Radiance Powdered Blusher in Golden Peach is perfect for radiant, flushed cheeks!

For lips, I've been switching between Mac Mehr, a flattering mauve pink and the Charlotte Tilbury Kissing Lipstick in Coachella Coral, a pretty coral pink which is ideal for the lead up to spring.

Lastly, the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal is my current top choice for a dewy glow, it's a gorgeous, shimmery golden peach hue that brings radiance and light to the complexion.

The second drawer holds the majority of my high end lipsticks, Mac, Clinique and Chanel to name a few! The Nars lip pencils are my favourite picks, with a creamy, pigmented and budge-proof formula, they're a real treat to own.

What are your current make up picks?

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5 WONDER PRODUCTS TO MAKE YOUR SKIN GLOW

It's around the time of the year when my skin tends to look a little lacklustre and is in serious need of a radiance boost. I've pulled together a few of my favourite radiance enhancing products that help to keep my complexion dewy and bright and to keep dull skin at bay.

For dull skin days I reach for the Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel, you only need a such a small amount of this illuminating cleanser to combat dull, uneven skin. The pink, turkish delight scented gel transforms into an silky oil as you massage it onto your skin and the combination of pumpkin enzymes and vitamins work together cleanse, soften and restore.

The Lush The Sacred Truth Face Mask has been a welcome addition to my skincare routine this month. This pampering skincare treat has totally perked up my complexion thanks to the combination of exfoliating papaya, nutritional wheatgrass and nourishing honey. The gorgeous fresh ingredients leave my skin looking younger, radiant and smooth.

Highlighters are my go to quick fix for dull, lacklustre skin. The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal is an iridescent shimmery golden peach,  ideal for that candlelit glow.

Another highlighter pick is the Sleek Solstice Highlighting Palette, with four dreamy shades to choose from, it's such a great palette. I've even been using some of the shades doubled up as a brightening eyeshadow, the rose gold shade looks gorgeous washed over the lids!

Lastly, the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All Over Miracle Oil* has been working wonders on my skin, hair and body. This luxe multi purpose oil gives a mist of moisture, saving parched skin and leaving your complexion dewy and hydrated.

How do you keep dull skin at bay?

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5 WONDER PRODUCTS TO MAKE YOUR SKIN GLOW

It's around the time of the year when my skin tends to look a little lacklustre and is in serious need of a radiance boost. I've pulled together a few of my favourite radiance enhancing products that help to keep my complexion dewy and bright and to keep dull skin at bay.

For dull skin days I reach for the Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel, you only need a such a small amount of this illuminating cleanser to combat dull, uneven skin. The pink, turkish delight scented gel transforms into an silky oil as you massage it onto your skin and the combination of pumpkin enzymes and vitamins work together cleanse, soften and restore.

The Lush The Sacred Truth Face Mask has been a welcome addition to my skincare routine this month. This pampering skincare treat has totally perked up my complexion thanks to the combination of exfoliating papaya, nutritional wheatgrass and nourishing honey. The gorgeous fresh ingredients leave my skin looking younger, radiant and smooth.

Highlighters are my go to quick fix for dull, lacklustre skin. The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal is an iridescent shimmery golden peach,  ideal for that candlelit glow.

Another highlighter pick is the Sleek Solstice Highlighting Palette, with four dreamy shades to choose from, it's such a great palette. I've even been using some of the shades doubled up as a brightening eyeshadow, the rose gold shade looks gorgeous washed over the lids!

Lastly, the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All Over Miracle Oil* has been working wonders on my skin, hair and body. This luxe multi purpose oil gives a mist of moisture, saving parched skin and leaving your complexion dewy and hydrated.

How do you keep dull skin at bay?

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FEBRUARY GOLD FAVOURITES

I'm so smitten with my Robert's Radio, it's been such a worthwhile investment piece, I've used it so much so far! Aside from it looking pretty on my shelves, it's a real treat to own, just one click and the radio accompanies me whilst I clean, cook or exercise!

Another favourite this month is Harry Potter, after yet another film marathon, news about the Cursed Child script/book and with wave 2 of the pop vinyls on the way I'm still so in love with the series.

I've had a thing for ring holders this month, I love this cat ring dish from Etsy, I've recently picked up this Muji ring holder I've got my eye on this adorable West Elm cat ring dish too!

For beauty, the icy February days left me still reaching for glitters and wintry tones. The By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock is a gorgeous shimmery lavender taupe with sliver glitter running through it, perfect paired with winged liner and a glossy pink lip. I've also still been adding a swipe of glittery polish to my mani courtesy of Essie's Rock at the Top, a gorgeous gold glitter.

The Sleek Solstice Highlighting Palette has been one of my top picks for a dewy complexion, with four shimmery shades it's ideal for radiant skin. 

Another pick this month to combat dry, lacklustre skin is the multi-purpose Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Miracle Oil*. With a combination of heavenly oils, omegas 6 & 9 and vitamin e, it's been a real treat for my parched winter skin.

Lastly, this dreamy Denman D4 Red Carpet Brush with actual 24k gold plating is my luxe favourite this month. Denman brushes are my top picks for silky soft tresses, the anti static rubber pad and nylon pins combine to make this the ideal everyday brush. It's currently half price and something to treasure for years!

What were your favourite products in February?

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LUSH SPRING PICKS

As we slowly transition into spring the days oddly seem to be getting colder and colder. Silver frosted mornings, bitter cold days and icy nights are still very much a thing and so baths are always a welcome treat. I've rounded up a few of my favourite Easter & spring picks from Lush, everything in there is so irresistible at the moment!

Flowering Tea Bubble Bar

This reusable tea bag shaped bubble bar is ideal to lift spirits on stormy rainy days. With sunny orange flower, uplifting neroli and filled with blue cornflower petals that float in the bath, it's such a heavenly treat.

Golden Egg Bath Bomb Melt

With a sweet toffee scent, glittery gold lustre and likeness to the Harry Potter golden egg I just couldn't resist this heavenly bath treat. The glittery gold layers melt away and infuse the water with a luxe mix of moisturising olive oil, coco butter and uplifting sweet orange and bergamot oil. It's ideal for parched winter skin!

Rose Bombshell

I have a soft spot for anything from Lush with the Rose Jam scent, filled with yellow rose petals, rose absolute and Sicilian lemon oil, this floral treat transforms the bath into a soft, silky pink hue. The divine sweet yet sharp fragrance fills the whole bathroom and the balancing, restoring and uplifting ingredients help you to recharge and unwind.

Fluffy Egg Bath Bomb

This adorable Easter egg creates a dreamy light pink bath with clouds of pink fluff. The combination of the sweet snow fairy scent, candy flowers and cute design makes this the ideal pick for Easter!

I also picked up this new blush/pale pink bath mat from H&M home, I can't decide whether I love it or whether it looks a little Granny-esque!

Have you pick up anything from Lush recently?

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HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING BLUSHERS

It took me a while to pick up an Hourglass Ambient lighting blusher, with so many rave reviews I'm really not sure why I waited so long! I purchased Mood Exposure on a whim last autumn and was instantly hooked. Everything from the luxe packaging to the swirls of complexion enhancing ambient lighting powder make these dreamy blushes some of my top picks.

The finely milled texture of these ambient lighting blushers glide effortlessly over the cheeks for a flawless finish, you only need the smallest amount for flushed cheeks. Although I like to build up my blush, there's no powdery residue, instead it leaves a smooth, soft focus effect to the skin. These blushers really are heavenly.

Throughout the colder months the Hourglass Ambient lighting Blush in Mood Exposure became a daily staple for me. The dusky mauve/pink hue sculpts the cheeks and compliments a bold berry or red lip perfectly! The ambient lighting powder running through the blush keeps the complexion radiant too, which is ideal for lacklustre winter skin.

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The latest edition to my stash is the Hourglass Blush in Diffused Heat. This perky coral pink blush gives a dewy glow to the skin which is ideal for spring! Just one swipe of this silky blush leaves you with fresh cheeks that look radiant and bright.

Aside from the dreamy shade selection, winning formula and luxe packaging, these blushers are also paraben, talc and cruelty free. I'm already deciding which shade to add to my collection next!

Have you tried these gorgeous blushers?

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HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING BLUSHERS

It took me a while to pick up an Hourglass Ambient lighting blusher, with so many rave reviews I'm really not sure why I waited so long! I purchased Mood Exposure on a whim last autumn and was instantly hooked. Everything from the luxe packaging to the swirls of complexion enhancing ambient lighting powder make these dreamy blushes some of my top picks.

The finely milled texture of these ambient lighting blushers glide effortlessly over the cheeks for a flawless finish, you only need the smallest amount for flushed cheeks. Although I like to build up my blush, there's no powdery residue, instead it leaves a smooth, soft focus effect to the skin. These blushers really are heavenly.

Throughout the colder months the Hourglass Ambient lighting Blush in Mood Exposure became a daily staple for me. The dusky mauve/pink hue sculpts the cheeks and compliments a bold berry or red lip perfectly! The ambient lighting powder running through the blush keeps the complexion radiant too, which is ideal for lacklustre winter skin.

The latest edition to my stash is the Hourglass Blush in Diffused Heat. This perky coral pink blush gives a dewy glow to the skin which is ideal for spring! Just one swipe of this silky blush leaves you with fresh cheeks that look radiant and bright.

Aside from the dreamy shade selection, winning formula and luxe packaging, these blushers are also paraben, talc and cruelty free. I'm already deciding which shade to add to my collection next!

Have you tried these gorgeous blushers?

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SPRING GOALS

With lighter mornings, spring blooms and sunnier days ahead it's the ideal time to refresh and set out a few new aims and goals for the upcoming months. I've listed a few spring goals below, hopefully I can tick them off over the next few months!

De-Clutter

My first goal is to de-clutter and organise my whole home. I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying last week in record time and it's completely motivated me to have a huge clear out. Old books, DVD's and clothes have been bundled up into bags and sent off to be donated. Even though I've only just started and it's such a big job I'm already feeling inspired, I've been Pinning away my dream home details, it's amazing how much a clear out can make you feel better!

Clean Eating

Another aim is to jump back onto the clean eating wagon, as the days get warmer I'm hoping that I will no longer crave comforting carb heavy meals, instead I'm planning on swapping them for healthier options like soups, veggies and salads. I've been trying to improve my snacking habits too, sipping on lemon water, snacking on dried fruit and veggie sticks with houmous. I've even ordered some almond butter with this weeks shop to spread on rice cakes and dollop on my morning porridge - yum! I'm on the lookout for some good recipe books too, I'd love to know your recommendations!

Bathroom Re-vamp

A goal high on my list is to re-vamp my bathroom. One of my favourite, relaxing rituals involves a pampering skincare routine followed by a long Lush bath. I'd love to create the perfect space filled with fluffy towels, gold accents, a little greenery and as many Lush products as I can gather to relax and unwind in. I've actually placed a huge H&M home order (a haul will hopefully be up later this week!), I've gone with a white, blush pink, grey, gold and marble theme!

Lighter Bases

Lastly, after slathering my dry winter skin with rich, nourishing creams for a while now, I'm hoping that Spring will allow me to switch up my skincare routine. I'm aiming to find a good, fool-proof skincare and make up base routine for the warmer months, I'll definitely carry the dreamy Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel through with me to spring (I just can't get enough of the stuff!) and possibly invest in a tinted moisturiser from Nars, the Origins Ginzing energy boosting moisturiser is ideal for Spring too!

Do you have any goals for Spring?

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What are your beauty picks for 2016 spring?

With the berry and red hues tucked away safely for another year, I've pulled out a few of my lighter, brighter products for spring.

The lightweight Origins Ginzing Energy Boosting Moisturiser has been giving my skin a boost of radiance ready for the warmer months. The gel-like texture means that a little of this heavenly citrus scented moisturiser goes a long way. It leaves my skin so soft, hydrated and keeps oil at bay, I really can't rave enough about this moisturiser, I must be on my fourth pot now!

Spring cleaning has already started to take it out on my poor mitts. The Lush Salted Coconut Hand scrub has been a saviour, packed full of exfoliating sea salt, nourishing Argan and coconut oil this pampering treat leaves my hands feeling so soft, hydrated and completely restored.

On my nails I've been reaching for Essie Maximilian Strasse-Her. It's a great transitional everyday shade that sometimes looks grey, sometimes green/blue depending on the light. I've also pulled out Essie Mint Candy Apple, it's such a fresh, pretty shade, perfect for spring!

I'm planning to keep my make up fresh and dewy this spring and so I've dug out my fail-safe  brightening, shimmery, dewy products. The Charlotte Tilbury Eyes To Mesmerise in Jean is my current go-to eyeshadow. It's creamy, soft, vitamin e enriched and a gorgeous champagne that blends effortlessly over the lids to brighten the eyes.

For blusher, the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Diffused Heat is my top pick for fresh, glowy skin. The perky coral pink shade is ideal for spring, just one swipe leaves you with a flawless, radiant finish. 

For a little extra radiance, the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal looks divine dusted on the top of the cheekbones, cupids bow and down the nose for that runaway glow.  

Lastly, I've pulled out a couple of bright lipsticks for spring, the Charlotte Tilbury Kissing lipstick in Coachella Coral is creamy on application, long lasting and a beautiful fresh coral pink. My second pick is the Pixi Shea Butter Lip Balm in Ripe Raspberry, a flattering deep rose pink, this leaves lips incredibly soft and gives an effortless stained tint to the lips.

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A RESTORATIVE LUSH HAUL

This January, instead of harsh detoxes, huge dietary changes and overworking myself with exercise routines that I probably won't stick to, I've decided to take things a little slowly. January is still a cold, bitter Winter month and comforting healthy meals, hot baths and soothing yoga routines are still very much required. As part of my restful, recharging January plan I've picked up a few Lush treats to get myself back on track and to get off to a good start to the year.

The Sacred Truth Face Mask

My skin has been in desperate need of a pamper after Christmas and so the first thing I picked up was The Sacred Truth Face Mask to help to perk up my complexion. This heavenly fresh mask contains nutritional wheatgrass, moisturising honey and exfoliating papaya enzymes to leave skin soft and glowy. 

This luxe skincare treat is packed full of fresh ingredients and so lasts in the fridge for around three weeks, the recommended twice weekly treatments ensures that the mask is used up in this time. I've used it once already and the results are pretty impressive, I'm positive that it will help get my skin back on track this month!

Unicorn Horn Bubble Bar

I just couldn't leave lush without a Unicorn Horn, this multicoloured iridescent bubble bar is such a magical treat. It creates a dreamy watermelon pink bath with clouds of sparkly bubbles whilst the combination of relaxing lavender paired with mood-boosting neroli soothes and lifts spirits - perfect for these gloomy January days!

The Rough with the Smooth

I picked up this scrubby little block after reading so many rave reviews online. Packed with exfoliating sugar and moisturising murumuru butter, it's the ideal quick fix for dry winter skin. This heavenly scented scrub has been a saviour for my parched skin so far, leaving it soft, pampered and smooth.

Beautiful Shower Gel

With a heavenly mix of peach and apricots, this in shower treat is like sunshine in a bottle. This is a fairly thick shower gel that creates a luxe, rich creamy lather to leave skin silky soft. The golden flecks of glitter and sunny disposition of this cute little product makes for the perfect morning pick me up.

Have you picked up anything new from Lush recently?

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WINTER BLUSHERS

As we move further into winter and with slivered frosts, biting gales and colder days right around the corner I've pulled out a few frosty pastels, rich wines and shimmery red blushers to pair with the wintry days ahead.

MAC's Gleeful was a welcome addition to my make up bag throughout December, so much so that I've carried it through with me to the new year. This mineralised, soft wine blusher blends seamlessly over the skin, the luminous pigments enhance the cheekbones whilst it gives a rosy flush to the cheeks. Paired with pink glossy lips and tons of mascara it gives a fresh wintry look.

A matte, dusty red rose blush like Nars Dolce Vita is perfect for the transition into winter, best applied with a light hand, this pigmented, blendable blusher packs a punch. It's universally flattering  tones and matte formula sculpts the cheeks and looks divine paired with a shimmery champagne highlighter. 

I picked up this dreamy H&M Pure Radiance Powdered Blusher in Golden Peach last weekend as a wintry alternative to my all time favourite blusher Sleek Rose Gold. They both have the same infused shimmery, complexion enhancing effect which instantly perks up the skin with radiance and light, ideal for the gloomy wintry days. It's also slightly scented with a subtle, divine vanilla fragrance, similar to MAC lipsticks which is a huge plus!

Lastly, MAC Well Dressed has been my daily to go blusher, combined with MAC Soft & Gentle it creates a dreamy cheek combination that I'm currently obsessed with. This powdery pale pink blush works so well with a frosty pink eyeshadow like MAC's Naked Lunch, the icy cool tones match the colder days perfectly!

What are your favourite blush picks for winter?

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DECEMBER'S RED FAVOURITES

December flashed me by in a whirl of tinsel and Christmas chocolates, It feels like this whole year has just flown by! The mild December days were disappointingly quite un-festive and I found myself buying cooler satin pyjamas to pair with my warm winter duvet. Christmas brought a well needed break with good food, family visits and festivities.
Our engagement anniversary (is that even a thing?) popped up with Alex surprising me with this beautiful new ring box and another pair of dreamy Asos Satin pj's!

Beauty:

Essie's Leading Lady seems a fitting favourite for this festive month, It's a gorgeous sparkly deep red with flecks of raspberry glitter running through it. I've been pairing it with soft grey knits, leggings, cosy jumpers, hot chocolates - everything! It's practically the only nail polish Ive been wearing this month!

For my hair, I've been using the Denman Grooming Brush to smooth out curls, it gives you effortless soft curls leaving you with silky tresses.

On my lips, I've been reaching for L'Oreal Exclusives Lipstick in Blake, it's such a festive, flattering red. With jojoba oil it keeps my lips soft which is ideal in winter. Nars Velvet Lip Pencil in Cruella is another favourite this month, it's creamy on application, long lasting and so festive.
With all the matte lipsticks, central heating and (slightly) colder weather my lips have been a little dry lately, EOS lip balms have been my top lip balm pick this month, they're so handy to pop in your bag and as they're packed with shea butter, vitamin e and jojoba oil they keep my lips supple and soft.

This faux fur pom pom keyring is a fairly new addition to my bag and adds a little colour to my otherwise mainly black outfit choices! It's so cute and fluffy, I have my eye on these Dune ones next, those ears!

Space NK sent me the Prismologie The Red Hour Foaming Body Scrub as a little Ndulge birthday gift in November, I'm not sure that I would have tried this otherwise but I'm so glad I have. It's a divine body scrub that polishes the skin non abrasive particles to gently exfoliate, with micro ruby crystals, coconut extract and volcanic spring powder it's such a luxe treat!

Lastly I switched back to Bioderma this month after finishing up my Garnier micellar water, Bioderma feels less stripping, it leaves my skin feeling soft, clear and removes make up with ease.

What were your favourite products in December?

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A PAMPERING CHRISTMAS EVE ROUTINE

For me, Christmas Eve is a time to pamper, watch films, indulge on chocolates and prepare for Christmas day. After frantically finishing off any last minute wrapping, packing up gifts and baking gingerbread men I breathe a sigh of relief and have a little pamper.

I start off my Christmas Eve pampering routine by melting into an early afternoon Lush bath. This year I'm saving the Lush Father Christmas bath bomb especially for the occasion, with a sweet candyfloss scent and swirls of festive red and green clouds in the bath it sounds like the perfect treat!

To prep my skin, the Oskia Renaissance Cleaning Gel really does it all for me. The cleansing and restoring combination of vitamins and pumpkin enzymes leave me with a radiant and smooth complexion that's ready for Christmas Day.

For my body, I'm planning on slathering myself in the Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream, this ultra rich, nourishing cream is ideal for winter, it leaves skin silky soft and smells divine, like sweet spiced ginger.

After climbing into the most Christmassy set of pyjamas that I can find, I'm planning on winding down by watching a Christmas film or two with a cinnamon hot chocolate to hand whilst I get to work on my glittery Christmas mani. I normally reach for Essie Leading Lady or Essie Toggle to the Top which are sparkly reds but this year I'm tempted to switch it up a little and try Essie Fashion Flares, a raspberry/ magenta glitter with black glitter which looks gorgeous as a light layer sprinkled over the nails.

I'm then planning on packing up my Charlotte Tilbury make up bag with all my Christmas day make up (red lips and glittery eyeshadows are a must!), before gathering up the presents and driving home to stay with family ready for Christmas Day!

What are you plans on Christmas Eve?

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FIVE FESTIVE RED LIPSTICKS

It's the time of year that leaves me reaching for a red lipstick on a daily basis. Paired with winged liner and highlighted skin a red lip gives a classic look that's also oh so festive. I've pulled together a little list of my favourite picks below for winter and the festive season.

The newest addition to my lipstick stash is Clinique Cherry Pop, a bright flattering blue toned red. Inbuilt with a primer, this long-lasting lipstick packs a punch with it's fresh, bold pigments. This lipstick is so perky and festive - one to pair with a LBD and bouncy curls for Christmas parties.

It's no surprise that a Nars lip pencil is among my top picks, everything from the creamy formula to the incredible pigmentation make these lip products divine. Nars Velvet Matte lipstick in Cruella is a deep scarlet red that's creamy on application, super long lasting and gives a gorgeous velvet matte finish on the lips.

When my lips are feeling a little dry I reach for L'Oreal Exclusive Reds in Blake. Despite being a matte formula it keeps lips soft and hydrated thanks to the addition of jojoba oil. The most sophisticated red I own, this cool toned red gives an effortless polished look that's perfect for winter.

Similar to Ruby Woo, MAC RiRi Woo is a gorgeous deep matte red with cool undertones. The pigmented formula means that you just need one swipe for lasting colour. This is the shade I'm wearing in the photo above, it's such a christmassy shade!

Lastly, Sleek Matte me in Rioja Red is normally my Christmas day lipstick. It has the most incredible staying power, lasting for hours before fading to a stain. As it's a liquid lipstick it can be quite tricky to apply, but once set in place it's completely budge-proof meaning that I can eat and drink as much as I like without having to worry about touching up my lipstick!

What's your favourite red lipstick?

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GIFT GUIDE: FOR HER

One to help you pick for the girls, this list is packed full of ideas for the interior, stationary, beauty and style lovers. I've pulled together a list of my picks along with a few more ideas below too!

These Unicorn slippers are adorable and the perfect gift to tuck under the tree for Christmas day to keep cosy and warm. Wrap up an Essie polish and Soap and Glory's Heel Genius with them for a cute gift for pampered feet!

For the interior and beauty lover, a scented candle is the ideal gift. Opt for a wintry scent like Diptyque Pomander to fit in with the festive theme. With orange, cinnamon and clove it's a divine, warming fragrance, perfect for the cold months ahead.

Another gift that you can't really go wrong with is this gold and white monogrammed mug. Pop in a packet of hot chocolate and marshmallows (I love these veggie ones) for a tasty treat!

Space NK is a great destination to visit for the beauty lovers, with incredible gift sets like this Becca Glow On The Glow Set, (which contains two iridescent, shimmering golden peach highlighter shades), dreamy Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushers and creamy By Terry Ombre Blackstar eyeshadow sticks, there are so many great options available to choose from!

For a luxe jewellery treat, Monica Vinader is the one. The dainty Riva ring comes in rose gold and is scattered with sparkling diamonds which makes this the ultimate swoon-worthy gift. It's also available in necklace form too - dreamy!

Boxsets make a great gift for the Netflix/TV lover, my pick this year would have to be Once Upon A Time, Parks and Rec is on the top of my Mum's Christmas wishlist and the Friends boxset always makes a great gift!

Here's a few more of my top picks for us girls!

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FESTIVE BEAUTY

With Christmas parties and festive gatherings on the horizon, I've pulled out the most sparkly & glittery, Christmas appropriate make up that I own. I've lined up my favourite festive red lipsticks, pulled out all of my glittery nail polishes and decorated my dressing table ready for the occasion.

To keep my skin in top condition I've been reaching for nourishing serums, rich moisturisers and enriching oils. The Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel is a staple for me this month to combat dull, uneven skin. The pink, turkish delight scented gel transforms into an oil as you massage it onto your skin whilst the pumpkin enzymes and vitamins work to cleanse, soften and restore leaving you with a radiant and smooth complexion. 

I've also been using my Estee lauder Advanced Night Repair II again, pairing it with the Origins Make a Difference Overnight Hydrating Repair Cream, together they make a dreamy combination and leave me with plump, glowing, hydrated skin.

On my nails, I'm planning on wearing as much glitter as possible throughout December. Whether it's gilded tips courtesy of Essie Rock At The Top or full on Christmas Nails thanks to Essie Leading Lady, a sparkly festive, deep red I'm planning on keep my fingers and toes pretty festive all month!

I've noted a run down of my favourite festive eyeshadow shades here and whilst most of these shimmery shades are well suited for the party season, Topshop Shuffle the cards, a sparkly iridescent rose gold and L'oreal Sable Lame, a gel infused, buttery soft shimmery gold are my top picks this month for every day wear. 

It's not really Christmas for me without rocking a bright red lip at least once during December. L'Oreal Color Riche Lipstick in Blake is a flattering, cool toned red that when applied gives a polished, classic look. My second pick, Nars Cruella is a gorgeous Christmassy red lip it's creamy on application, dries to a matte finish and lasts for hours on the lips.

Lastly, on my cheeks, I've pulled out my favourite festive rosy wine blusher MAC Mineralised Blush in Gleeful for shimmery, flushed cheeks. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Mood Exposure is perfect to pair with a red lip as it sculpts the cheeks effortlessly whilst leaving a subtle pink radiant sheen. For highlighter, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal, an iridescent, shimmering golden peach highlighter is my top choice to give me that candlelit, luminous glow. 

What are your festive beauty picks this month?

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