Chic Beauty Blog

Nail of The Day - GOSH Boot Camp

2012-02-13T13:52:00.000Z

GOSH nail varnish in *Boot Camp*

This new color from GOSH is a divine mixture of olive, khaki and subtle gold all mixed in to make this unique nail varnish.

It's unquestionably different to anything else I have in my vast nail lacquer collection and these days it's actually getting quite difficult to find something that stands out and doesn't look like something I already have.

These pictures are shown without a topcoat

I love the uniqueness to this color and it was easy to apply, just two coats and it was fully opaque.

GOSH is a Danish brand and therefore close to my heart due to me being Danish and I love all their gorgeous stands in Superdrug and always have to stop and look at what's new.

Their nail lacquers cost £4.99.

What do you think of *Boot Camp*?

Dove maximum protection - I LOVE IT!

2012-02-04T12:27:00.002Z

Hey everyone-

Hope you are all enjoying the weekend?

Ok this is going to a be a short "I LOVE IT" type post simply to the everyone I've found the best deodorant ever!

Dove maximum protection offers 48 hours fresh smelling pits.

It smells sooo good- incredibly fresh like clean linen, and no amount of hardcore workout / exercise breaks it..

I was very dubious about its promise and very unlike me I paid £5 for it- which about £4 more than I'd ideally pay for a deodorant.

Well what can I say apart from

it IS worth the money, it's fantastic- last and last and smells amazing!

I got it from Boots for £5

Nails of the Day - OPI Manicurist of Seville

2012-02-01T13:57:00.000Z

OPI- Manicurist of Seville

This color is an oldie but a goodie I think.

It's so rich and deep a color and extremely flattering.

I decided to paint my nails with this as I was reading a magazine yesterday where they said that the color to wear in February is a deep wine / plummy color.

As much as I do love nude colors I definitely prefer a stronger color on my talons so this is ideal.

OPI Manicurist of Seville

For some reason I made such a mess when painting with this, I got it everywhere; I don't know if it's just me but certain brushes / colors just do that - go all over the cuticles.

I painted this with 2 coats and it's a rich and non streaky formula.

What do you think?

Nails of the Day - Ciate Cookies & Cream

2012-01-30T13:29:00.000Z

Ciate Cookies & Cream Paint Pot

I had to get this after seeing it featured in Lisa Eldridge's favorite nail varnish video.

I couldn't really tell exactly what it looked like, but she described it and I ordered it from Amazon.

It took 2 weeks to arrive - but it's here now and I tried it, and although it's not exactly what I'd expected I must admit I really like it.

It makes my nails look so pretty and neat.

Ciate Cookies & Cream Paint Pot

The application is rather lengthy, as this needed pretty much 4 coats to look this way. After 1 coat it was not visible, after 2 coats it was see-through, after 3 coats you could see the nail line, so I ended up with 4 coats, but at least it's very fast drying and easy to apply.

I topped it off with a coat of Seche Vite and am pleased with the result.

This particular brand is my favorite for packaging, I just love the bow touch to the bottles.

They retail for around the £10 mark, however you can find a lot of the colors on Amazon for around £6.

What is your opinion of *Cookies & Cream*?

Say Hay To Scarlet (GHD) She's Red Hot!

2012-01-28T22:27:00.001Z

GHD Scarlet Collection Deluxe Gift Box

"Get dolled up and create some whoopee. And grab Scarlet before you go. In Scarlet’s world, everyday’s a party, so turn up the jazz, kick off your heels and get ready to relive the roaring 20s. Get a wiggle on though, Scarlet’s a flighty little flapper and she won’t be around for long. "Can't repeat the past?... Why of course you can!"

The Scarlet Box

Ghd have released "Scarlet"- She's the beautiful red plated ghd hair straightener who lives in a beautiful red deco luxury heat resistant clutch bag inside a silky glamorous red vanity box.

This limited edition ghd Scarlet Collection Deluxe gift set includes Gold Series Classic red plated hair straightener and a travel hair dryer.

The Scarlet Clutch Bag

Upon opening the lovely silky vanity box / case you find the most gorgeous red clutch bag- how perfect would this be for a Valentines Present for a gorgeous girl?

IF I was being taken out on Valentines day, which I am not (violins at the ready please) I would have to bring this red clutch & some red high heels!

Anyway I digress..

How utterly gorgeous is this packaging? Admittedly I am the biggest sucker for beautiful packaging so ghd had me right where they wanted me with this, I'd much rather have a red plated set of ghds that a standard pair..

(You can get yours from here )

Inside you find :

ghd gold classic styler with delicious red plates

Limited edition travel hairdryer

Protective plate guard

Scarlet inspired heat resistant styler clutch

2 x ghd sectioning clips

Ghd Scarlet Gold Series Classic red plated straightener

The new ghd Gold Classic is ghd's sleekest styler yet, luxurious plates smooth your hair for an ultra-shiny result, while golden accents add a touch of magic
ghd's new, golden plates have been smoothed, contoured and given a high-gloss finish to glide through hair effortlessly
With its improved outer body, the ghd Gold Classic styler is cooler to touch and lighter to handle--the perfect combination to create any style

Me after using my new ghds- happy shiny hair.

What is great about ghd straighteners is that they heat up in about 30 seconds, it's incredible, I feel like I just turn them on and then the beep to tell me they're ready. This makes me happy as I am extremely impatient when it comes to things like that.

It takes me no more than 3 minutes to do my whole head of hair, as the heat is so super effective and the plates so smooth.

They are so light and glide through the hair with absolutely no effort and made my hair really shiny and smooth, which is really important to me as a blonde I am always worried about dry hair.

The biggest selling point for this particular collection is the gorgeous case and clutch you get, and I really think if you're treating yourself it is worth that little extra to get such luxurious feeling goodies in your grasp.

All in all win win- I love my new straighteners - which I ironically use more for curls than for straightening, but that is just another added bonus, you can literally create any style you want, curls, waves, flicks, straight & smooth hair.

Get your very own Scarlet from here in time for Valentines Day - go on treat yourself ;-)

What do you think of ghd? Do you use them?

Nails of the Day - Hyperreal by Topshop

2012-01-27T13:14:00.000Z

Nails of the Day - Topshop 'Hyperreal'

When it comes to nail varnish collection and color variety Topshop never disappoints, they have rows and rows of stunning colors and usually have new limited collections out too, and I love nothing more than popping into the big Topshop near me and browsing their selection, and have to admit I usually come away with at least one.

Hyperreal is a coppery rose gold tone, that would match the very popular (amongst Bloggers at least) Michael Kors rose gold watch.

The shine is incredible and as with all Topshop polishes, this was super easy to apply; two coats and it's fully opaque and it dried so fast I was quite amazed.

Usually I am not the biggest fan of metallic colors on my nails as it doesn't tend to suit my skin tone much however I have to say I do love this.

Topshop nail polishes are £5 each, which is a tad steep for a non beauty brand, however as I've found the consistency of them is so excellent I find it worth the money.

What do you think?

Olay Total Effects Sensitive Moisturiser

2012-01-24T10:35:00.000Z

NEW Olay Total Effects Sensitive

At last Olay’s no-compromise option for women with sensitive skin who are also serious about anti-ageing

Olay introduces new Total Effects Sensitive – an age defying cream specifically designed for women with sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is delicate, and so traditional anti-ageing creams can sometimes be unsuitable. Previously this might have left women with sensitive skin who are also concerned with the signs of ageing, with a dilemma: either they choose to prioritise their skin’s sensitivity and forgo proven effective anti-ageing treatments – or risk exacerbating their skin condition with products that could be irritating for their skin type. Olay Total Effects Sensitive combines 10 years of proven anti-ageing expertise with ingredients specifically formulated to actively help strengthen skin’s moisture barrier.

Over 58% percent of women in Western Europe diagnose themselves as having sensitive skin. There are multiple signs and symptoms of skin sensitivity such as dryness, flaking, tightness, blotchiness and breakouts. Symptoms are often worsened by environmental factors like UV, pollution, weather, emotional or physical stress and also the overuse of topical products not specifically designed for sensitive skin. For many women visible signs of sensitivity may accentuate signs of ageing, for example, dryness and flaking can lead to dry lines, dehydration and dullness, while blotchiness and redness leads to an uneven skin tone.

The ingredients in Total Effects Sensitive have been carefully chosen to help calm and cocoon the skin, importantly helping to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and leaving skin feeling cared for. It contains Glycerin for hydration, while its formula, with Cocoa Butter, Olive extract, White Tea, Sea Buckthorn and Allantoin, envelops the skin and helps to calm and protect it. The daily moisturiser, with Vitamin B3 and Pro Vitamin B5, also works to actively help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier.

Dr Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, Olay Global Dermatologist and expert on sensitive skin says: “I see hundreds of women with sensitive skin and they all want to know the same thing…’what can I do to make my sensitive skin easier to manage and more predictable?’ The answer lies in strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier as it’s the first line of defense for the skin, to a hostile world of irritants. This is particularly important for women with ageing sensitive skin as the barrier is less able to restore itself when damage occurs. Thanks to Olay, tackling the signs of ageing andsensitive skin should now be simpler.”

***

AVAILABILITY: In store nationwide. RRP 50ml £19.39, 30ml £14.39

I miss you.

2012-01-12T14:16:00.000Z

As you may have noticed I have not posted for ages, and this is due to SKY taking A MONTH to come and install my broadband at my new house, so I just have to wait.

But I shall be back soon and I can't wait..

Mwah x

A few make up storage ideas

2011-12-20T09:51:00.001Z

Good Morning Everyone,

Storing makeup can become a problem when you have enough to open a shop, and I am personally still looking for the perfect solution- a place to store it all, in one unit however I fear no single unit would be big enough.

However in the mean time I am using all sorts of different boxes, baskets and drawers to fit it all in.
I thought I'd show you in case anyone was after a small makeup storage place.

Muji is a shop full of storage solutions and quite well known for their acrylic drawers and units.

I have 3 sets of their acrylic drawers, two small ones and one large one.

In the small ones I store some of my lip glosses as shown in the picture and in the other one I store some of my single eye shadows - my palettes don't fit in sadly, so they currently live in a wicker. basket.
The large Muji drawers are not shown as I currently have necklaces in that one.
You can see their selection of acrylic storage on their website which is www.muji.eu
Then in the pictures you can see a acrylic lipstick holder, which is along the same lines and design as Muji but it's actually from John Lewis (£10)
It houses approx 25-30 lipsticks - ideally I'd need one of these about 3 times bigger!
Then I've shown you some white wooden towers from Matalan (£22 each) that have 4 drawers each and to give you an idea how big and deep the drawers are, I'd say one drawer holds approximately 10 foundation bottles. So one drawer is actually quite roomy!

These are quite nice on display in the bedroom or bathroom- but of course they're still not the perfect solution as they don't hold everything.

So that's what I do for now- the rest are stored in various big white wicker baskets and boxes until one day when I hopefully find a large enough unit to house it all.
If you have done a storage blog post please feel free to leave your link below so I can pop along and get ideas.

Here are the pictures - thanks for reading x

OPI~ Designer, De Better NOTD

2011-12-19T11:33:00.001Z

Hey lovelies,

I've been so busy you wouldn't believe, moved house on the weekend and have spent the last few days trying to get the place organised. I won't have any Internet due to SKY not being able to install it for me until 19th Jan so I am relying on a rather temperamental 3G iPhone connection!
My nails had got into a bit of a state due to packing boxes & moving so today was finally time to paint them, in a new gorgeous colour from OPI's latest collection - The Muppets- this pretty & shiny colour is named "Designer, De Better" and is a silvery / champagne colour with a hint of rose gold maybe!?
I applied 2 coats and really like it, it was easy and non- streaky to apply, sometimes gold/silver polishes can be of a funny and awkward texture to work with.
What do you think of it?

Do What You DO Without Messing Up Your Doo! My Tassi.

2011-12-09T13:57:00.002Z

I know, I know.. You're going to think I've finally lost the plot (fret not, that happened a long time ago), but I simply had to mention this.. This.. Headband? Head scarf? Head snood?

Meet The Tassi

So, seriously girls- what did you do before The Tassi?

Imagine the scenario, you're going to bed and want to remove your makeup, you go to bathroom find your cleanser and -PAUSE... WHAT DO YOU DO???

You don't want to mess up your hair (I know you're going to bed, but you want your hair nice for bed.. Er.)

Panic.. Cold sweats.. Mustn't mess up hair.. (Yes, I know, I know..)

PHEW!! Tassi comes to your rescue..

The perfect accessory for holding your hair away from your face- I am SURE you will agree?

There is absolutely no limits to it's use: wear it when applying or removing makeup- it gently holds your hair and makes no dents or marks on the hair, so if you have styled it but want to "do your face" pop on yer Tassi and off you go, hair will still look great afterwards.

Using it round the house to keep hair out of face- I did this today much to my postman's horror!

The way to use Tassi is to pull it over your head so it's round your neck, flip your hair out, pull it over your face with the tag at the back, flip or tuck your hair into it-

Et Voila.

As you can see I rebelled and put tag at the front.

I wanted to share this post with you for the absolute comedy value- I think it is quite a funny little thing to have. I have to say I never missed it until I had it, but now I do have it, I use it and shall continue doing so, as long as no-one sees me ;)

They are on Amazon in UK

here

But they do have their own website which is US based

Tassi Company

*This post might contain sarcasm

Enter to win £100 voucher to Skin Health Spa & lots more.

2011-12-08T16:20:00.000Z

Hello lovely readers,

I have a bit of an exciting competition for you all in the run up to Christmas.

The gorgeous and luxurious Skin Health Spa are giving one lucky follower a £100 voucher to one of their Nationwide Salons.

Very nice treat to yourself or even as a Christmas present to your Friend, Mum or Sister.

This £100 voucher is redeemable against any of their treatments and products and

they offer a huge selection of fantastic skin treatments including skin rejuvenation, microdermabrasion, derma roller, skin injections (BOTOX), laser treatments, etc, and the clinics are regularly frequented by celebrities.

Now what do I have to do to enter the £100 voucher competition I hear you ask..?

1: Subscribe to my Blog - if you haven't already you can click on the follow button on the right hand side.

2: Follow me on Twitter @Chicbeautyblog & follow @skinhealthspa and Tweet the following:

“Follow @skinhealthspa for top tips, exclusive offers and the chance to win £100 treatment vouchers – thanks to @ChicBeautyBlog!”

The tweet automatically enters you into the £100 voucher draw.

London Clinic

www.skinhealthspa.com

But not only that, Skin Health Spa are also very generously offering a £35 voucher to everyone who follows them on Twitter and who Tweets the following tweet:

“Follow @skinhealthspa for top tips, exclusive offers and the chance to win £100 treatment vouchers – thanks to @ChicBeautyBlog!”

Following this tweet you'll be sent a direct message on Twitter on how to redeem your £35 voucher.

YES!! You read that right!!

Every single Tweet of the above wording automatically gets a £35 voucher-

WHAT IS NOT TO LOVE ABOUT THAT!?

So Ladies (and Gents- not leaving you out) Get Tweeting .

The competition runs from today until Thursday 15th December 17:00 pm, and a winner will be picked on Friday 16th December, so you will have your voucher in time for Christmas.

Good Luck x

Laboratories Filorga Optim-eyes & Meso-Mask reviews.

2011-12-05T13:05:00.000Z

Laboratories Filorga Meso-Mask & Optim-Eyes

Having recently finished these 2 products I wanted to draw your attention to this fantastic skin care range.

Optim-Eyes (Available at House of Fraser £38.50) comes in a smart and user friendly design, I was impressed to find that one twist of the lid and the pump pops up in the middle of the bottle and you pump out the product. I much prefer this sort of design to the ones where you're supposed to dip your finger into the tub daily!

The cream has a thick & creamy texture yet sinks into the delicate eye area beautifully and was so pleasant to use, along with it's fresh and natural scent . Left my eye area non- greasy yet feeling moisturized and well hydrated (if I don't use eye cream my eye area can become dehydrated)

This eye cream claims to eliminate dark circles and eye wrinkles - a claim I can't personally vouch for because I use eye cream as a prevention tool, rather than a cure (for now).

It's one of the best eye creams I have tried, as I am quite fussy with how greasy they are or how watery and runny they are- I like neither - so this one sits bang in the middle and has the absolute perfect texture.

It was a sad day when the pump refused to dispense any more product.

"What they say about their product"

Filorga Optim Eyes. A treatment with triple action on the eye contour with anti-aging properties thanks to nctf®, a key ingredient of Cosmesotherapie®. Stimulates fibroblast activity, improving tissue slackening and filling lines. Anti-dark pigmentation action helps to eliminate dark circles. The eye contour becomes restructured, signs of tiredness fade, wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles disappear.All skin types De-puffing, Anti-ageing, Pump applicator, Fresh/ zest scent.

Laboratories Filorga Meso-Mask

Meso-Mask (available at House of Fraser £38.50)

This creamy and soothing face mask is a dream to use and leaves my skin hydrated and fresh, and I particularly enjoyed using it if I had been lacking in the sleep department (that's all the time then.)

It really does wonders for fatigued skin- perks your complexion right up to look as if you get at least 8 hours sleep at night!

You apply a thick layer all over your face, it's very creamy and easy to apply and washes off your hands easily. Sit back and wait for a good 30 minutes (I tend to leave it as long as possible, if I have time) and then rinse it off. I definitely see immediate results from it - my face just looks more bright. Much like after a facial, that nice fresh glow you get.

I love it and I think it's important to keep at least one face mask in your skin care collection - as sometimes your skin just needs that bit of an extra boost.

The scent is gorgeous and fresh and in no way overpowering.

"What they say about their product"

Filorga Meso Mask 50ml. Anti-ageing lightening mask. This program, directly inspired by mesotherapy treatments, brightens the skin for a luminous and radiant complexion. Treats signs of aging and erases all signs of fatigue. Apply a thick layer of the mask on the whole face, over the eye contour, neck and décolleté. Leave on between 15 to 30 minutes, remove and rinse thoroughly with fresh water.All skin types. Anti-wrinkle, Anti-ageing, Fresh zesty scent

For more information on this range you can visit their website

Here

Red Sparkly Nails by Barry M & OPI

2011-12-01T10:44:00.002Z

OPI The Thrill of Brazil and Barry M Red Glitter

Barry M Red Glitter

The countdown to Christmas has begun and around the country this morning many excited children and I'm sure- adults - were ripping open the first little square on their advent calenders, full of excitement for the month ahead, full of anticipation for the traditions that will be relived.

In aid of this special month I decided what better way to start the month with festive bright red sparkly nails.

I used two nail varnishes to create this look; to make sure I got the brightest red I could possibly get.

First I applied one coat of OPI "The Thrill of Brazil" which is the most stunning and amazing red. That is the reddest red I have in my entire (vast) nail varnish collection and it is perfectly opaque in ONE coat- that is such a rarity in itself.

After letting that one coat dry I applied one coat of Barry M "Red Glitter" and let that dry and then I finished off with one coat of Seche Vite topcoat.

The reason I didn't apply Barry M Red Glitter on its own, is that it's not very red or very opaque applied by itself, so this was the best way of getting a very vibrant Christmassy colour.

I have to say just looking at my sparkly, glitzy red nails is making me feel all festive and happy.

Aren't they just so sparkly and pretty?

Very pleased with the final look- think this will be my Christmas day nail varnish choice, does anyone else get excited about seasonal nails, or is that just me?

Now I just need the Dorothy red slippers to match and I am ready for Christmas.

My recent Beauty Buys- Haul Time.

2011-11-24T23:06:00.001Z

Hello sweeties

Hope you're all having a good week? I shall be happy when this week is over - let's put it like that.

Life is hectic as ever and I haven't been at home a lot recently, during the day, so no time to take pictures, so instead I decided to make a video showing you a few things I have picked up on my travels recently.

Haul Video

I hope you enjoy :)

Products mentioned in this video are:

Diet coke- buy 2 bottles get 1 Models Own Lipgloss for free.

17 Blemish Balm

Barry M Red Glitter

MyFace Cosmetics - Lipstick in Vintage Pink

MyFace Cosmetics Lipgloss in Lip Pop

Free My Face Gift - Box of Bling (gold or silver) worth £23

Toni & Guy Cleanse & Nourish shampoo + Conditioner for Damaged hair.

Bourjois healthy mix foundation in #54

17 Cosmetics Mirror shine lipstick in Beehive.

Loreal telescopic mascara in waterproof

Lush snow fairy shower gel

Estee Lauder double wear maximum cover foundation #medium deep

OPI French Quarter for your thoughts

MUA eyeshadow quads.

FANTASTIC 17 Competition - don't miss out.

2011-11-24T14:00:00.000Z

How would you like to win a makeover with 17’s official make-up artist Vanesa Guallar?

What about tickets to an exclusive Summer Camp gig for you plus two, with an overnight stay and £500 of high street shopping vouchers and an overnight stay in a top London hotel.

There are lots more prizes up for grabs too, all you need to do is go to the "Get Involved" tab on www.facebook.com/17Cosmetics and fill in your email details by 27th November 2011.

Don't forget to "Like" their page too.

Ive got some reviews coming up soon of some gorgeous 17 cosmetic products, can't wait to share x

OPI Rainbow Connections worn with Mavala black .

2011-11-23T15:08:00.001Z

noun

"A bow or arc of prismatic colors appearing in the heavens opposite the sun and caused by the refraction and reflectionof the sun's rays in drops of rain"

Mavala Black is a color I thus far have never worn.

I was toying with what color to wear with OPI's new color "Rainbow Connections" and as my motto is "When in doubt wear black" that is what I did.

I was going to put Rainbow connections on all my nails until I remembered I am going to work tomorrow, and I know how hard it is to remove glitter; I am not willing to spend 30 minutes tonight removing freshly painted glittery nail polish.

OPI Rainbow Connections is part of the Muppet Collection that has been released recently and is now available in shops nationwide.

It is a very, very glittery lacquer, make no mistake about that!

The bottle if crammed full of glitter particles in different sizes, shapes and colors.

There is no real base color to this, so when you use it on its own you'll just have glittery and sparkly nails.

Here I used it as a "feature" nail on my ring finger (both hands)

I made sure I shook the bottle thoroughly to get lots of glitter pieces onto my nails and one coat is what you see above.

I would love to show you how it looks worn on all my nails and I shall try and paint all of them tomorrow after work and show you on Friday, as I'd like to try that out for myself too.

I hope this one finger jobbie will be OK for work for now.

All the colors of the rainbow.

What do you think of this look? Have you tried a different color combination? (please share what looks good)

Stina x

My Top Five Best Performing Products..

2011-11-21T22:56:00.001Z

Good Evening

I thought it'd be a nice idea to share what I would class as my top five best performing products.

These are products that I have bought again and again and they never fail me. That is essentially what you want from all products, but sadly that is not usually the case, hence we keep trying new things and more new things.

I have done this in video form - as it is easier to get across my enthusiasm on camera than it is in writing ;-)

Products featured in this video:

Seche Vite top coat for nails

Lilash (eyelash growth treatment) available in the UK from powder rooms
Crest White Strips (teeth whitening strips) available from crest white strips
Loreal Sublime Bronze Gel from boots
Elnet hair spray boots

Hope you enjoy and please feel welcome to leave any comments below :)

Stina x

Even toes need a little love ~ PediPro Bullet~ Home Pedicure

2011-11-20T20:58:00.001Z

Bullet Pedipro by JML

First they gave us the Ped Egg now they bring us the Bullet Pedipro which takes the hard work out of shaving those hard skinned hooves.

The Bullet is a battery (4 x AA) operated foot filing device that shaves off dead and hard skin of your feet in an easy manner, the fact that it is electrical means the hard grinding is taken away from your pedicure.

It's no easy job looking after your feet, it really is a constant upkeep to keep those trotters soft and smooth and for me it's one of least favorite tasks. It just seems such a chore, but I always make sure my feet are presentable. It's just one of those things- like wearing nice underwear- not like anyone is really going to see my feet or underwear but you just never know.. Do you..... ?

(I personally had an incident many years ago where I had to remove my shoes and realized my pedicure left a lot to be desired, since then I've made sure that won't happen again)

Anyway let me tell you about this lovely little purple device.

In the box you get a nice little travel pouch for your bullet........

I guess this might come in handy. If you travel and want to bring it on holiday with you.?

Personally I am one of these people who always mis-place things like that (the pouch) - but that's just me..

"The Bullet"

This fits into the palms of your hand nicely, and is made of a rubbery material so it doesn't slip whilst you're gripping it. This is handy as you might have to hold it in awkward positions to get to those bits under the foot that never see the light of day. You know what I am talking about!?

The Blurb

"Pedi Pro Deluxe is a professional pedicure treatment that fits in the palm of your hand. This electronic personal bodycare system has a high-speed rotating head, with hundreds of ultra fine micro-crystals. The head quickly, but gently, removes dead and hard calloused skin, while exfoliating and rejuvenating your feet. The result? Silky smooth, soft soles that feel like they've just stepped out of the salon. Pedi Pro Deluxe has 2 different speed settings, and comes with buffing pads that will give your feet the perfect finishing touch. Skin shavings collect in the in-built storage tray, so there's absolutely no mess. Safe and easy to use, Pedi Pro Deluxe is the perfect at home salon solution to dry cracked skin on your feet, toes and heels."

When you remove the grey lid you reveal the high-speed rotating microfile that spins super fast whilst you move it over the bits of your foot that needs attention, whilst it collect all the *ahem* shavings (sorry).

It gets pretty hot after a while so just beware of that, but in no way do you feel any pain or dis-pleasure whilst using this, in fact there really is no sensation at all, which given the task in hand is pretty good.

When you've done both feet all you need is a bit of super moisturizing foot cream and you have nice soft as babies feet again.

I can't really vouch for the battery life as I've only needed to use this twice in the last month, but they're still going strong for now.

Do you look after your feet in winter too or just wrap them up in socks and boots and let the pedicures take a backseat until it's time to dig those sandals out again?

This device can be purchased

Here

Models Own Purple Grey Nail Of The Day.

2011-11-19T11:23:00.000Z

Models Own Purple Grey

The name of this nail varnish pretty much sums it up don't you think?

Models Own tend to be spot on with the names of their colors and this one is definitely what I could only describe as a purple grey color.

It was extremely fuss free to apply- two easily applied coats and it looked like this.

It's a gorgeous color albeit quite safe and it doesn't necessarily show its two tones in all lights.

Models Own Purple Grey retails at £5 in Boots

I personally really like Models Own nail varnishes- the only small gripe I have (and it is small) is that the brush isn't the best one around - even Rimmel's brushes are better but this is something I can live with as it's not awful or anything.

This is a nice autumnal color whilst not being a head turner I feel it's a great one to have for those day where you just need a color that will go with or blend in with pretty much any outfit or occasion..

What do you think?

AX-Paris - So many dresses so little time....

2011-11-18T12:47:00.001Z

I wanted to tell you about this range of clothes that is sold in New Look which has become one of my favorite places to look if I want to be sure to find a new dress for either day or night time.

AX Paris is as far as I know sold in all New Look stores and is really reasonably priced.

And who doesn't love a good fashion bargain?

You can also pick it up here www.axparis.co.uk

Embellished Trim Dress

I recently got this dress and it has got to be my Christmas party dress, it's so flattering on, very figure hugging and scheksy!

The embellished neck line and hugging fit adds a modern twist to an otherwise classic dress.

I think I'll team with tights and a tailored blazer for a day time look or killer heels and simple clutch for a stylish evening outfit.

It's currently reduced from ~~£35~~ to £19.99 here

I love it and wore it in this video

Studded Knitted Dress

Another dress I've got recently is this super cosy yet stylish knitted jumper dress, which I wore out and got compliments on.

I wear it with leggings and high boots and feel snug. I am usually not great with wearing jumpers but fitted ones I do like. I wore it out to Sunday pub lunch with my friend recently on a freezing day, and it was nice to have a cosy yet stylish (cringe) dress to wear.

This cost £30 and can be found here

Abstract Animal Print Knit Dress

Another fantastic find recently was this over sized knitted jumper dress, which is so easy for me to just put on with most things; leggings, skinny jeans, boots, flats- everyone needs an easy to wear jumper dress in their wardrobe I think.

For those days where you want to hide your belly and just feel comfortable and warm- this is a winner!

I have had girls come and ask where it is from, so it is definitely a popular item I think.

It's £30 here

Have you bought stuff from AX-Paris before?

Have a nice Friday everyone x

Kerastase Elixir Ultime - if you want the silkiest locks in town.

2011-11-16T14:16:00.000Z

Kerastase Elixir Ultime

A while back I was despairing over the state of my hair. The whole underneath section was like a birds nest, it was completely tangled and no brush could go through it. Not even the amazing Tangle Teezer brush!
I am not entirely sure what caused it, but it has happened to me before - after having each of my sons my hair turned tangly to a point where I couldn't brush it and big clumps came out if I tried. Have cried many tears in frustration at not being able to comb my hair out!
So I am hazarding a guess at hormonal changes or stress were the cause.
I had read that Elixir Ultime was the ultimate treat for the hair - that it would soften hair and potentially save my dreadlocked hair.
I purchased a bottle from a local salon and asked for advice on how to use it. The lady said I could use it on wet or dry hair, as a leave in or wash out treatment, overnight - in any way I find fit really.

One pump of the product in my hand.

So the very next day after washing my hair I pumped 1 pump into my hands. The consistency comes out like a very lightweigh serum / oil. I applied it all over my (very knotted) hair and got out my brush.. And guess what, it slid straight through my hair- all my knots had gone, there was no tangly mess left. I was literally astonished as I couldn't believe just one pump of this product could do that.
And from that day I have used one pump everyday after my shower and my hair is so easy to manage now. It's soft and smooth and grows quickly (that is probably unrelated though).

This product is enriched with four nourishing and protecting oils : Maize, Argan, Camillia and Pracaxi oils, together they deeply nourish and condition the hair.
Elixir Ultime is suitable for all hair types and having seen the results myself and heard lots of feedback on it on Twitter too, I really think this is a product worth spending those extra pennies on for excellent results!

In a salon you're looking at about £35- however I just found it online for £26.75 - quite a good saving..

Here

Have you tried it? I am interested to see what kind of results others have had :)

When you want POW! hair without frizz..

2011-11-13T23:16:00.000Z

OSIS Magic finish hair serum & OSIS Dust it mattifying powder

I have recently discovered a great secret to big hair that maintains a brilliant shiny & glossy finish and thought I'd share these products with you, in case you'd been after a similar product or method.

OSIS dust brings serious POW! volume to your hair.. I don't think anything beats this in that department.

I have reviewed it before here and I still love it..

The way I like to use it now and again to create texture in my hair is :

Wash hair and blow dry it with my head upside down.

Brush hair (my hair is dead straight by the way)

Lift half the hair up and dust OSIS powder onto the hair underneath the top layer and ruffle it up so it gets quite big - you can back comb it a bit, but the dust almost have the same effect as backcombing anyway.

I then smooth the top layer of hair down on top and brush it lightly.

OSIS Magic Finish Anti Frizz Shine Serum

I then use one pump of this super light shine serum and rub it in my hands and smooth it down over the length of my hair to make sure it looks nice and mirror shiny.

This serum is really excellent in that it is so light weight that it doesn't make the hair greasy in any way shape or form, it just adds a nice healthy sheen to the hair, which in my case makes my hair look soft and healthy!

Both products are fantastic and used together they work well in my experience.

As I mentioned in my review post that I posted a link to above, the OSIS dust has been in my cupboards for years- such a fantastic product, and I am super impressed with the Magic serum too.

If you have any OSIS recommendations I'd love to hear them :)

OSIS products can be found in salons and online here

30-day mind body and abs challenge - update..

2011-11-10T23:12:00.000Z

Evening all,

You may have read about me taking part in 30 day body and abs challenge

We're on day 10 day of the challenge now and mostly I've done OK..

I have done the exercises and my own exercises and I've generally eaten well- lots of salads and lots of fish, low fat cheese, almonds, beetroot- generally lots of nutritious and wholesome food.

I have done a little video where I talk about it a bit more- I hope you enjoy it- do excuse the fact that I filmed it straight after exercise so look rather tired !

Wavy Hair Video Tutorial - Toni & Guy Deep Barrel Waver

2011-11-10T12:41:00.000Z

Hi everyone,

Hope you're enjoying your week?

I have to admit I am looking forward to the weekend now, but not too long- the end is in sight.

You may have seen my review on Toni & Guy deep barrel waver recently Here

I have done a video tutorial to show you all how easy it is to use and you get a better idea of before and after.

My hair is extremely straight as you can see in this video.

Hope you enjoy x

Stina x x

Be Happy In Your Skin. -My Skin Care Routine- (video included)

2011-11-08T14:22:00.000Z

Santuary Skin Renewal Glycolic Peel Mask

I have been using this mask recently and I must say it's super gorgeous.

It comes packaged as a 30 day skin renewal set, but half way through the 30 days I can happily say it's already brighten and refreshed my skin a lot..

You receive the three items as per the picture above:

1 Skin renewal glycolic peel mask

1 Brush

1 Anti wrinkle activation serum

You're the suppose to paint the peel mask on your clean and dry skin 2-4 times a week, leave it on until it dries and peel it off. There is a certain satisfaction in peeling it off like a big layer of skin- I know that sounds gross, but it's such a great feeling.

Once peeled off you apply the serum straight onto the skin and let that settle.

I noticed after first use that my skin looked really fresh and glowing.

The instructions advice you to use the serum every day which I have done and my skin feels so soft and even.

I have done a "Bare Faced" video here today where you can see my full skin care routine.

**No makeup worn in this video**

I just looked at the "Blurb" for this product and saw this:

Day 1 - Skin looks smoother and glowing

Day 7 - Skin feels firmer, toned and looks brighter

Day 14 - Skin glows with radiance and fine lines appear reduced

Day 21 - 72% of women* noticed a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and a glowing radiance

Day 30 - Flawless complexion and younger looking skin

That sounds exactly what I have experienced and I am really impressed with this product.

Sancutary aims to give you that SPA feeling in your own home and I have to say with this particular product I have certainly seen excellent results similar to what I have seen when I've had facials at a Spa.

You can get it in Boots for £22.50 and currently Boots have 3 for 2 on skin care products and this product is included so you could grab a few other things whilst you're there.

Get it here

What is in my make up bag right now?

2011-11-08T00:33:00.001Z

Good evening

Welcome to my new followers :)

I have done a video showing you some of the products I keep in my make up bag on a day to day basis (currently, the content changes every few weeks)

So here is the video and I will list here what I mentioned in the video.

Foundation Clarins Skin Illusions in 110 Honey

Carmex cherry flavor lip balm

Shu Uemura eye lash curlers

BettyHula cream

YSL Singuliere mascara in black

Estee Lauder double wear stay in place flawless wear concealer in light medium

Chanel Blush Tweed Rose (#30)

MAC 168 angled contour brush

Mac eye shadows in Honesty and Bisque

Gosh black eyeliner

Mac eyebrow gel Mac eye shadow brush 217

If you want to subscribe to my new you tube channel it is here

My You Tube Channel

LUSH Lemony Flutter - A fantastic cuticle butter

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001Z

LUSH Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter

This product was first mentioned to me by Nicoletta who writes nicolettas beauty space

and she even kindly sent me a sample of this product and I loved it.

The scent is so gorgeous - like lemon sherbet.

It has taken me many months before I actually got around to buying a tub for myself and the reason for this was that Lush stores are hard to come by. But a month or two ago a Lush store opened in my very local shopping center, so I could finally grab this.

The texture is dense but literally melts on your hands.

This butter can actually be used anywhere that has a tendency to get dry, so for example elbows, heels, cuticles, nails - the possibilities are endless.

Lush have packed it full of oils and butters to make it super rich and moisturizing and I use it everyday on my nails and cuticles and it really helps and works.

£5.95 / 50g

I think it's really reasonably priced as a little really go a very long way and it's nice to know that

this cream is made to a very old-fashioned, traditional formula and contains lots of lovely natural ingredient and the scent is really heavenly.

If you want to establish a good nail care routine or you simply want something to keep dry cuticles at bay in the cold months coming where cuticles can get terribly dry the this is a fabulous product to pick up!

My current favorite products

2011-11-06T18:46:00.000Z

Hey lovelies

I seem to be on a little video roll and as I went out today and it was dark when I got back home I couldn't take any pictures for my favorites blog post.

So here you have it in video form and I hope you enjoy it.

I wish I could have crammed some more products as I am loving a lot at the moment, but maybe I shall do a part two to this video to show you the rest.

Please let me know if you have any questions or feedback, it is always appreciated x

My First Ever Attempt at a You Tube Video...

2011-11-06T13:17:00.001Z

Hi everyone..

I have been asked countless times if I'd ever do videos and have always said no. NO.. No way..I HATE myself on film......
But then recently I've been thinking about it.. And now I've gone and done it.
But it'd be good if I had known that a video can't be much longer than 10 minutes long, as I waffled on for 15 minutes I think (shame!) and You Tube chopped about 5 minutes off it..
So I know for next time at least..

Here goes..

Cover eyes and hides under duvet..

Please tell me what you think..?

MAC Glitter & Ice Iced Delights collection lip bag in "Sultry".

2011-11-05T20:58:00.001Z

Cremesheen lipstick in "I love winter"

Cremesheen gloss in "Deelight"

Lip liner in "Boldly bare"

Mac have released ~~another~~ limited edition collection, this time the theme is winter

From the Ice Parade bags and kits I got this lip set in Sultry.

The color of the lipstick is what I'd describe as a rose color and the cremesheen glass is a pretty rosy pink which feel lovely and smooth on the lips and lasts for around 2 hours.

With this set you also get a see through round make up case- very much in the wintery icy theme

I know there's been a few different opnions on the white packaging but personally I like this look.

I am definitely not a lover of the quirky designs MAC sometimes bring out in their limited edition collections; such as Hello Kitty and Wonder Woman. But this is simple, chic and so clean looking, I love it.

Here are the swatches:

1: Lip liner in "Boldly bare" - dark nude color

2: Cremesheen lipstick in "I love winter"- a natural looking rosy color

3: Cremesheen gloss in "Deelight" - a natural rosy pink semi sheer color

Personally I am not sure I'll wear all three together although this is probably the intention.

"I love winter" is great on its own and I am always after everyday wearable colors and this is definitely one for me.

The cremesheen gloss "Deelight" is just a perfect gloss to carry around in your handbag, it adds, some color, but not too much - it simply enhances your own lips and give them a great glossy shine.

"Boldly Bare" is a good make up staple to have in your make up bag, if used lightly it can be used with pretty much most rosy / dark nude lipsticks or glosses.

Here I used all three items together and as you can see it's a natural /nude looking result.

With the sets you get better value for for money as buying a set saves you a good £10-20 on what the items would have cost individually so if you wanted to try some of MAC's new collection I think one of the sets is a fab idea, there are plenty to chose from.

This particular set is £31.

MAC online

Have you got anything from this collection and if you have- what did you get? Feel free to post a link to your reviews / blogs in the comments so I can take a look x

Benefit They're Real Mascara Giveaway Winner..

2011-11-02T22:53:00.000Z

Of the Benefit They're Real Mascara is:

Emma from flossiesbeautylove blog

Many congratulations Emma, if you could email me your address to www.chicbeautyblog.com then this will be sent to you either Thursday or Friday this week.

Thanks to everyone who entered x

Revlon Facets of Fuchsia- an AMAZING NOTD!

2011-11-02T14:06:00.000Z

Revlon Facets of Fuchsia nail enamel

"Twinkle twinkle little nail"

Revlon's latest nail enamels are out for autumn and this is part of the collection.

Isn't this so beautiful and sparkly?

I absolutely love this colour. I hd passed it up a few times in Superdrug thinking it would be too glittery, but I am glad I finally succumbed to its seductive shimmer as when wearing it, it looks incredible!

From afar it mostly look like a dark, almost black color with subtle glitter particles, but WOW! Up close it really is something special!

I am in nail varnish heaven

I painted two coats on to get this color; first coat was a bit wishy washy, but second coat made the color fully opaque and glittery.

I sealed it with a top coat of seche vite which made it really glossy and shiny.

So tell me do you like it?

Bourjois, A word please.

2011-10-31T13:32:00.001Z

Bourjois So Laque 7 days wear #Blue Violet

This sounded promising I thought- a nail color that lasts for 7 days.

Wohoo!

I loves the color which is a deep nay with a very glossy & shiny finish and I love the application and the brush.

Overall I really love this nail varnish.

But I don't love the fact that I painted my nails yesterday and today at midday I have tip wear and one chipped nail on the other hand.

7 day wear you say? I wouldn't like to see the state of my nails in 7 days if they already look worn after 24 hours

So that aspect annoys me slightly I have to say, as I love when a product does what it says on the tin!

It's the first time in years I have used a Bourjois nail color and apart from the chipping issue I love everything else about it.

Have you got any Bourjois favorites?

30 day Mind / Body and Abs challenge - WILL SHE DO IT?

2011-10-30T20:46:00.000Z

Hi all,

I have been quiet for a while from the healthy living & exercise part of my blog, and it's mainly been due to lack of hours in the day. And laziness. (There I said it...)

In an ideal world I'd love to be able to post there regularly, exercise regularly, eat sensibly all of the time, as I am only too aware of what happens to me and my body and my mood if I don't make the right choices.

I am not 100% happy with my shape at the moment, and although I fit into standard 8-10 clothes all over, I feel I am so un-toned and just *soft* for lack of better way of describing it.

I have personally always preferred to be toned and fit and have been known to have a six -pack stomach at various stages of my life an even though I have 2 kids I don't accept that as an excuse to myself for NOT looking my absolute best.

I have decided to part take in a "30 day Ab challenge" run by Melissa from

thru the blue blog

Melissa is a fitness fanatic (whom I used to work with in a gym many years ago) who ran half a marathon this year with a group of girls from Twitter formed by the lovely @BangsandaBun and when she tweeted about it recently I thought here's my cue to make the month of November the month where I get back on track and get those abs back in shape!

There really is no excuse for me, I know I am capable of being a lot fitter - but sometimes lazing about in the evenings and wasting time of Social Media sites is a much preferred option!

My inspirational picture would have to be this of Anna Kournikova.. Yes please!

She's got a fab body, abs of steel yet still maintaining a girly feminine look

SO NO MORE EXCUSES! I hate excuses and I hate when I hear myself making them!

I am the only person holding me back and I cannot excuse myself anymore.

So Mel will be running the 30 day challenge through her blog and Twitter and there is a group of us who've committed to taking part and we'll be following a grueling abs routine for 30 days and tweet and blog about it, and keep each other motivated

I have decided that as well as doing the abs challenge I will change my food & general exercise habits for the month of November, and obviously hope that the the good habits stick after November.

If anything I'll be in great shape for Christmas parties ;)

Tomorrow morning I will take a before picture of my stomach- depending on how that looks I may or may not post it here. (I may wait till I have the after pictures so I can post them together ;) )

My promises to this challenge are:

To put in my all 100% to this challenge! I shall not let the team down!
Zero Tolerance. On the banned list will be Pasta, White Bread, Simple Carbs, Cakes, Chocolate, Fizzy Drinks, Crisps, Sugar, Cheese, Biscuits, Processed foods, Any carbs after 3pm, Sweets….
Clean & wholesome eating. Fruit, Vegetables, Greens, Salads, Protein Rich, Low-fat, Complex Carbs, Nuts & Seeds.
I will complete 45 minutes high intensity cardio workout (at home) 4 times a week.
I will follow the abs challenges and tasks given to me/us and not cheat- after all I'd be cheating myself.
I will not binge on ‘Indulgence Sundays’ – One treat only, not a whole day of binging!
I will not drink any alcohol AT ALL (This will be the hardest for me actually)
I will NOT make excuses! None. If I do- smack me! Virtually..
I will drink 2 litres of water as standard, daily, I already have 4 bottles waiting in the kitchen, I intend to finish one per day!
I will eat breakfast daily, even if it is a tiny portion of porridge with water (I have never eaten breakfast as I tend to eat majority of my food really late at night)

So all there is left to say now is -WISH ME LUCK- Join us if you want to - all the details are right here:thru the blue.me/category/30-day-ab-challenge

I shall be posting about my progress here and definitely on Twitter as Chic Beauty Blog on Twitter - Ciao for now x

Toni & Guy Deep Barrell Waver Review

2011-10-28T16:58:00.000+01:00

Afternoon Lovely Readers

Wanted to talk about my favorite hair gadget at the moment: Toni & Guy Deep Barrell Waver.

It's super quick to use and creates soft waves which look more natural and soft than when I use curling tongs.

This is how my hair looks straight after use- after half a day wear it drops out a bit

Excuse the quality of the picture - was taken on my iPhone.

Toni & Guy Deep Barrell Waver

This device heats up to 180 degrees in seconds and has 25 heat settings which is actually really useful as you can get really subtle waves on the lowest setting and really defined waves with the highest setting.

It comes with a 3 meter swivel cord and is extremely easy to use, it's like a modern day crimping iron.

You simply clamp it around hair sections and hold for a few seconds and release.

I'd say I use this at least a couple of times a week- which is rather unheard of for me as I never really have that much time to spend on my hair these days as my youngest boy is into everything and I can't turn my back before he's ripped into something!

All round fabulous invention - I love it :) Have you tried it yet?

RRP £34.99

Perfect Dior Nude Natural Glow Creme-Gel Foundation Compact

2011-10-27T21:17:00.000+01:00

Dior Nude Natural Glow Creme Gel Compact #Medium Beige 030

The Blurb: "Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Creme-Gel Makeup combines the extreme sensory pleasure of a luscious cream gel texture and the satiny perfection of an imperceptible powder. A microscopic network of extremely soft waxes that imprison mineral powders. Upon application, the gel melts into the skin and turns into an invisible powder that instantly and effortlessly glides across the skin for an ultra-natural satin finish. A new technological process allows the texture to imprison Active Mineralized Water droplets that are ten times more concentrated in skincare active ingredients. Skin is ideally velvety, for the nude skin effect that is radiantly translucent. Day after day, the skin looks more beautiful, even without makeup. Its double-sided applicator makes application easy: the velvet side for gentle application for a luminous finish, while the sponge side blends and flawlessly evens out skin."

Let me tell you this: This item is my new go-to product for a full face coverage, a light coverage, a midday touch up, a quick touch up before storming out the door. This compact has literally been a Godsend to me for a little while for its versatility and wearability.

I am not going to deny that the packaging is a huge factor in whether I'll use a product or not, I have somehow found myself become a bit of a packaging & brand snob without meaning to, it's just sort of happened.

I was trying to explain to a friend the other day how I used to be happy with a £4 plain packaged lipstick, but now don't even flinch at a £35 lipstick price tag.. Oh how times change.

Basically the prettier it is the more I like it.

I like pretty things I do.

The compact opens up and has a large mirror, a tray with a thick sponge and a compact foundation.

The fact that the compact comes in a soft velvet pouch gives it extra points in my opinion, but of course this is just so Dior can justify the price and make it all the more luxurious feeling.

I am not complaining - all in the name of satisfying ones make up desire.

I felt I had a need for a compact to touch up makeup during the day and this has served that purpose excellently.

It's as easy as 1, 2, 3...

Grab compact from depths of handbag

Open it and apply with sponge whilst checking your work in the mirror

And you're good to go...

The sponge is actually really nice and soft and great for applying the foundation.

The compact foundation has a nice light creamy soft & silky texture and when swiped over skin it blends in instantly, no need to dab or swipe sponge several times.

Dior Nude Skin's formulation is based on 40% water and offers skin hydration and a natural glow.

It's excellent for the areas that your foundation might have faded or worn off in or just if you're carrying your make up look from day to night- it's the perfect way to make yourself look fresh faced again.

There is nothing to not love about this.

RRP £34

The Bottom line is.... Slendertone!

2011-10-27T15:29:00.003+01:00

Slendertone Bottom Device

As women we all have issues with our bums!

Either you have one that is too large, too flat, too hanging, too protruding- we're just never happy!

Slendertone Bottom is a fab invention for ~~the more lazy~~ people out there who want a fantastic looking bottom but who just can't find the motivation nor time to exercise (I do mostly include myself in this..)

It all sounds so simple - you pop on some shorts for 30 minutes a day and sit down and wait for your bum to take shape, whilst getting what feels like electric shocks in your bottom (Apologies if this sounds rather rude..)

Here are the shorts in action

I'll be honest, the first thing you need to be in possession of when proceeding with your shorts is PATIENCE.
There are four flaps at the back that open up and have sticky pads attached. You need to get these sticky pads to stick to skin only and they need to be perfectly aligned so they don't touch the shorts, and that in itself is rather tricky when all of this takes place - err behind you! But you know, as with everything practice makes perfect and one you have all the four sticky pads stuck to your derriere, you're good to plug in to your electrocuting device..

But - No Pain No Gain - as they said to me when I was having my two 9lb babies (I didn't really appreciate the quote at the time.).. But it is true in this instance!

Now is where the fun begins ; You plug the shorts into a tiny remote control type device where you can adjust the intensity of the electric shocks (please bear in mind I am using my own words here.. I am sure there is a technical word for it, but no-one would really understand that)..
The shocks come in waves so you get 30 seconds on and 30 seconds off- this goes on for 30 minutes.
You can chose a shorter program, but believe me once you're IN the shorts, you may as well go for the full 30 minutes. After the effort of putting them on - just leave them on for the 30 minutes, honestly!

The intensity is marked 1-100 and at first level 50 was AGONY! At each wave of electrocution I'd literally *GROAN* out loud, I couldn't help it, but after a few times use I got used to it. It feels like someone is giving you a deep deep tissue muscle massage- really painful in a bearable way.

Does it work then I hear you ask:
Well in my opinion : Yes it does..
They do not make you lose weight or make your bottom look like the one in the picture BUTT they do firm up the bottom muscles and make it firmer and rounder (in my personal experience)- and just more.. PEACHY!
The general look of my bottom is better (this post is actually making me chortle) - my jeans look better on and so on.

What I will have to say though:
Do not expect this item to work if your plan is to sit on your bum eating cream cakes and watching Eastenders omnibus- at the end of the day, as with anything - what you put in determines what results you get.
And I have tried to eat healthily and drink plenty of water and do exercises at home as well as using it, but have got better results whilst using it than I normally would get from exercise alone.

All in all I love my Slendertone Shorts and I urge you to try these if you have bottom issues (Noo, not of that kind..)

You can pick these up in Boots and other retailers or find the full description on the website which is www.slendertone.com

My new blog design is thanks to Abby Wallis from www.abbzzw.com who've given my blog a new look and I am so grateful and love it, and I hope you all do too x

Benefit They're Real Mascara Giveaway Open To Blog Subscribers

2011-10-19T22:55:00.000+01:00

Hi Everyone,

It is time for a little giveaway.

I recieve so much lovely feedback from my followers and subscribers and my Twitter people and I think it's only right I try to give something back (I am a believer in Karma in case you wondered)

I have been using Benefit They're Real mascara for a while now and it's really great- here is a little brief on it from Benefit themselves:

Why we love it:

They're real! lengthens, curls, volumizes, lifts & separates. Our jet black, long-wearing formula won't smudge or dry out. A specially designed brush reveals lashes you never knew you had!

product details

WHAT ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW
They're real and here's the proof!
94% saw dramatic length & volume*
90% saw base-to-tip curl*
94% saw visible lift*
100% saw long-wearing results*

Onto the giveaway

I have an extra mascara in my possession and I am going to give to one of you my lovely followers of Chic Beauty Blog worldwide.

I'll keep this as simple as I can;

To enter this giveaway you must be a follower of my blog.
Pop a comment in the box below telling me your favorite mascara.
Please also leave your blog and or email address.
To get 2 entries (in total) you can tweet about this give away including the link to this post (get it below on "Share on Twitter"
I can't accept entries from blogs/persons that are purely set up to enter give away's - not fair to genuine followers
This giveaway will run until 26th October (1 week from now) 23.55pm GMT

I will contact the winner via email in the days following, so it is vital you leave an email address please.

Lots of luck everyone and I hope the winner will love the mascara as much as I do :)

Stina x

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze Pictures, Swatches & Review

2011-10-19T13:34:00.002+01:00

Laura Mercier Lip Glazes

I am a huge fan of Laura Mercier lip glosses as they do everything I want in a lip gloss.

They smell nice

They taste nice

They're not sticky

They last long

They give a good color

On the whole I find Laura Mercier doesn't get a lot of mentions anywhere, be it on blogs or press and that is surprising because it's one of the most fool proof brands I know.

I have to admit I find their packaging dull and their prices high so it's not the first counter I visit when I am in the mood for make up, but when I do- the brand never lets me down.

Laura Mercier Lip Glazes

I wanted to give these a mention as Laura Mercier have some new colors out in their new "Nude Glaze Lip Collection" and I definitely see there being a color for everyone now- whereas before I could only find one color that suited me, now they have loads.

Worth checking out if you want to treat yourself.

Lip Glaze is a high shine, very pigmented lip gloss with a lovely taste and long lasting qualities.

With the right color it creates the illusion of fuller lips (though they are not lip plumpers)

Left to right we have swatches of:

Baby Doll

Pink Tulle

Bonbon

Bare Pink

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze "Baby Doll"

A soft rosy pigmented pink with subtle shimmer. I love this and it's perfect on it's own or on top of rosy lipsticks.

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze "Pink Tulle"

A very pigmented rosy pink- this is so pigmented that no lipstick at all is needed underneath as it has a lot of color on its own.

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze "Bonbon"

A delicate blue-pink (this is my favorite).This is such a pretty pink and I saw it on the make up assistant in store and asked her what she was wearing and it was this. It came home with me that day.

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze "Bare Pink"

A very milky pale pink- this I can only use on top of a lipstick, as it looks wrong on me on it's own, it does look perfect on top of a fleshy nude lipstick. Perfect for when you're wearing heavy eye makeup.

In my opinion I prefer these to my Mac, Chanel , Lancome & Clarins glosses as they simply last longer and have more color.

They retail in the UK for £18.50 in department stores or Space NK.

I hope this was somewhat helpful to you- however if you have any questions please pop them below in comments or contact me on Twitter where I can be found (too often)

Chic Beauty Blog Tweets

Outfit of Yesterday ~ some favourite pieces!

2011-10-17T13:46:00.000+01:00

Hey lovelies :-)

I have not done an outfit post for absolutely ages so here is a very picture heavy post to show you what I wore yesterday. Unfortunately I didn't get time to get the post up last night, but here it is.

Silky light pink blouse: Gap

Very skinny black soft jeans with zip details : Miss Selfridge

Leather & suede boots: Zara

Zara Boots

The boots are my current favorites I love them, very comfortable and just the right length.

Outfit Of Yesterday

Here I am seen with my beloved Zara bag (as seen on Olivia Palermo)

This bag is huge & made from leather, very sturdy.

It has an inside compartment made of soft cloth which keeps things in place.

Gap Blouse

Up close of the blouse; I think it's a sweet everyday sort of top.

It's in the GAP sale for £4.99 (bargain!)

Zara Boots.

These are pull on and not tight on the leg, there is enough for room for wearing jeans inside and still have some space around the leg. That is how I prefer boots, I am not keen on zip up boots.

As you can see the back part is suede and the front leather.

Zara Bag

Here's the the bag- nice smooth leather (scared of getting it scratched though)

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze "Baby Doll"

As I was wearing rose pink nails (OPI My address is Hollywood- (Link to review)) I decided to go for rose pink lips too in form of Laura Mercier lip glaze in "Baby Doll" - gorgeous rose pink gloss that last for ages!

Laura Mercier lip glaze in "Baby Doll"

Laura Mercier's lip glazes are amazing, really a great consistency and flavor. They last for a very long time and are not sticky in the slightest.

So there we are, that was me yesterday- and here's one of the "Un-Cut" pictures- kind of funny as I have no idea I took this or what I was doing...

Crazy chick!

Have a fabulous week everyone- I will speak to you all on Twitter

Follow my mad tweets

OPI "My Address Is Hollywood" from Touring America Collection

2011-10-16T12:08:00.000+01:00

OPI "My Address Is Hollywood"

OPI recently hi the road with their latest collection "Touring America" with a new take on classic styles inspired by American cities.

The collection offers 12 colors all of which could be described as easy to wear and glamorous without being OTT!

I have and absolutely love "My address is Hollywood" which is a classic rose pink with the most subtle shimmer (actually that is more or less un-detectable in my opinion)

It's the easiest color to wear and to apply.

As I am not quite ready to break out the darker autumn / winter colors I feel this is a very wearable color all year round as it's neither summery nor wintery. It's simply a classic color.

My Address Is Hollywood

First coat was opaque enough, but the color looks deeper and better with 2 coats. There is no dragging or gloopiness, this is such a great consistency to work with and it dried in no time.

I finished it off with my favorite top coat Seche Vite (I have a very funny story to tell you one day about the pronunciation of Seche Vite).

So overall I am mightily happy with this buy and can see myself reach for this when I am unsure of what colors will go with what.

Have you tried any of the colors from this collection?

What do you think of this one?

Please feel free to comment below.

Stina x

NANOBLUR 10 years younger in 40 seconds- Yay or Nay?

2011-10-14T14:03:00.001+01:00

Nanoblur RRP £19.99

What is Nanoblur?

IN ONE WORD... MAGIC!

Nanoblur is the latest beauty sensation that is sweeping across the nation like a witch on her broom at Halloween!

Everywhere I go I hear people mention this product, my friends are wanting to try it, little grannies on the bus are whispering to each other about saving their pensions so that they can turn the clock back and look 65 again, school mums are wanting it to avoid the expense of Botox and fillers.

If you haven't heard of Nanoblur yet ~~then where have you been?~~ I'll tell you about it.

Nanoblur is not skincare. It is quite simply tomorrow’s high technology, today. It is not a cream. It is a suspension of millions and millions of particles that refl ect light perfectly in billions of directions to make the skin’s surface appear completely flawless. Within seconds, pores appear to disappear. Fine lines appear to vanish. The skin texture appears nearly perfect. With one application on any skin surface (even on your hands), you will be convinced that Nanoblur will make you look up to 10 years younger in a matter of seconds. It’s just that simple...

So in short - a miracle in a tube!

Nanoblur was designed to give the skin an appearance of having been airbrushed.

Within 40 seconds of application you'll see pores and lines being smoothed out and filled and you're left with the perfect skin.

I went to the UK launch of Nanoblur and we were advised to use it on top of foundation but I can't say that works for me, I believe the best method is dabbing it on to the skin after moisturiser and letting it settle for a minute or so and then apply your foundation..

I shall demonstrate what sort of effect you can expect -on my hand as I am not sure anyone wants to see my face that up close to be honest.

Left: Before - Right: After

These pictures were taken in the space of 2 minutes, same place and same light.

I applied a small blob of Nanoblur, rubbed it into my and watched it smooth my hand out.

It has the same effect on the face- HOWEVER I have to say that for me personally I am finding it difficult knowing where to apply it as I don't really have any wrinkles (that'll be all the anti ageing creams I use ha!) and when I did use it I found I looked very matte and "perfect" and I am aware that I might be in minority but I quite like a glow and a bit of facial depth and imperfections.

In my opinion I would liken this product to L'oreal Studio Secret Primer. Which coincidently is a product I always have in my collection .

This product does really do what it says on the tin, as we saw demonstrated at the launch party where a lady had half her face don with Nanoblur, we could clearly see where the forehead lines stopped midway across..

The best bit is probably the price, I really think its reasonable at £19.99 and easily available at Boots.

Link to Nanoblur

Have you tried it yet? Do you want to?

Have a great weekend everyone and I am so glad to be back with a camera again, I have missed blogging!

Stina x

Make a child smile this Christmas ~Operation Christmas Child~

2011-10-11T13:10:00.000+01:00

Today I want to talk to you all about an important matter.

It's not my usual type of blog post, but what I have learned from being a blogger is that I/ we have an important platform from which I can potentially reach many of you and in this case I feel this is a hugely worthy cause.

Christmas is fast approaching and we all know that one special child who will be showered with gifts on Christmas day, whilst they're warm and happy and they have the best and most magical day of the year.

We might even remember that feeling ourselves, and for some people that special feeling surrounding Christmas never goes away.

For some children in the 3rd world this is not reality. They have never been given a new toy. They have never opened the pages of a new book and looked at the shiny pictures.

When I think about that and I then think of how much my own two kids have - I simply feel that this is something I have to do. Heck I'll even send two boxes- what is that to me?

Compared to the absolute joy of that child who has never opened a present before.

Samaritan’s Purse UK, is a humanitarian relief and development organisation working in 18 countries across Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

One of their major projects is Operation Christmas Child, the UK’s leading shoebox appeal, where every Christmas they send on average 1.6 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need in the developing world.

For many of the children that receive the gift it’s the first Christmas present they've ever received.

So for them it’s important that we spread the word about this project as far as we can!

See here for how to get started Link

On the website www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk you can find out exactly how to go about sending a shoe box full of goodies to a child, and thereafter you can follow its journey and you will receive an email to let you know exactly where your box was sent to.

I hope that lots of you read this and join in this worth while cause to help a little child smile this Christmas :)

Lots of Love, Stina

Sigma Beauty 8 Make Up Brushes Travel Kit Give Away- WINNER-

2011-10-11T11:53:00.000+01:00

Good Morning,

Firstly please accept my apologies for being ~~fashionably~~ ridiculously late with announcing a winner of this give away.

I hope you will forgive me- a lot has been going on in my world and even more to come very soon, but I got there in the end.

Here is what the price is:

Gorgeous aren't they?

Last night I lost a lot of sleep but can happily say that finally I have a winner, who will receive this full set including travel pouch sent directly from Sigma.

The lucky winner is:

Drumroll........

Suzy from suzyheartsbeauty.blogspot.com

Congratulations Suzy, I will be in touch with you today..

Hope you enjoy your new brushes as much as I am! x

Stina x

Blow Your Own Horn- a shout out to fabulous bloggers ~Part One~

2011-10-09T23:57:00.000+01:00

Starting out as a blogger or trying to get noticed is not easy..

Everybody needs a helping hand which is why I figured if I can help anyone get their blog out there in any way, then of course I will.

I started out as a newbie myself once and remember that excited feeling of gaining new followers and feeling like people were actually reading and caring about what I had to say.

So without further ado- here are some fabulous bloggers and I urge you to show them all the support and love they deserve for all their hard work- for believe me, blogging may look easy- it is a time consuming task indeed.

Cas, 20 something year old with a passion for hair and beauty. She's fun, friendly and bubbly.

Loves chocolate, detest pizza, but is a sucker for Tiramisu. Cas blogs daily about hair and beauty products, but from time to time likes to blog about random things . . What exactly I hear you say? You'll have to join her to find out more.......

hair and beautylicious blog

Fabulicious is a beauty blog with a celebrity twist, created to give honest, helpful and frank reviews on a variety of new, innovative and different beauty products- From mascara to fake tan, nail varnish to moisturisers, lip glosses to skin primers. You will find it all here along with exclusive celeb interviews and tonnes of celebrity beauty gossip!

Go join the lovely Sarah on her gorgeous blog

I am fabulicious

Carlyn write a lovely new beauty blog "Smoking Peaches" which is a mix of beauty and fashion.

Carlyn says about herself:

"Despite being a size 14/16 I am determined to follow it (minus the ones that make me look like I'm impersonating a small whale). I love reading other people's blogs that relate to fashion, make-up, food and travel, but I'm not sure how many will be interesting in reading mine. However, it was the blogs I read that inspired me to start one of my own"

Go and see what her blog is all about here:

Smoking Peaches Blog

Georgia from Georgia on my mind blog

Georgia and I were always Twitter & blogger buddies and became great online friends.

I love her style of writing and this is her new blog- which you must go and follow.

Georgia says about her own blog:

"Georgia: On My Mind doesn't really fit any one particular category. It flirts between photography, books, diets, perfume shopping, food, lifestyle and of course, there will be make up. A lot of make-up. Afterall, it's where I started out and I am a self confessed beautyholic

As the name of my blog suggests; It's an online journal of sorts, a cathartic place for me to spill out the often shallow, vacuous and occasionally meaningful thoughts that infiltrate my mind. Basically, it does what it says on the tin."

georgia on my mind

Mel from 30something Mel's Blog

Mel is a wonderful mum of 4 from Essex who writes a fantastic blog (how do you find the time?)

Her blog is a great lifestyle, diet and beauty blog and being a mum myself I really enjoy reading fellow mums blogs.

Mel manages to look fantastic whilst having kids and lots of pets and I am in awe!

Go check out her blog- she deserves it :-)

30something mel

That is the end of my *Blow your own horn* for this time- another post will be up shortly (if you have already emailed me, you will be featured soon)

I still have a lot of fabulous bloggers I want to feature and I am thinking of making this into a weekly post, so if you are one of my subscribers / followers and you'd like your blog mentioned on here please feel free to email me on www.chicbeautyblog.com

Have a great week everyone and I hope you enjoy some of the above reading material x

Stina x

Geodesis Fig Tree Diffuser ~home fragrance review~

2011-09-23T22:35:00.005+01:00

I want to share this gorgeous scent diffuser with you all, it has been spreading its lovely fig scent in my bedroom for a few weeks now.

Geodesis Fig Tree Diffuser

I absolutely love the look of this diffuser and I love the way it gently spreads a lovely sensual scent in my house..

Fig is in my opinion a musty yet sharp, balsamic yet sweet scent, earthy and powdery.

Get yours here CLICK HERE

Geodesis diffuser, combining the fragrance of the leaf, the sap and the fruit of the fig tree. The reed sticks are immersed in the scented and alcoholic solution and absorb it to fill your interior with a luscious fragrance.

The idea of associating a fragrance with a region of the world lies at the heart of the Geodesis brand.

Their unique fragrances are produced in France from selected raw materials, mainly of natural origins.

I can thoroughly reccomend this if you're looking for a gorgeous looking and gorgeous smelling home fragrance.

If you're after one of these you can get it from here
Woodruffs

This product is also available from john lewis

MAC Eye shadow pictures& swatches of my MAC eye shadow collection.

2011-09-22T17:11:00.002+01:00

First of all it probably has to be said that I am not really an eye shadow wearer..

So yes there is a hint irony of this sort of post coming from me in that case.

I am just not very good at applying it, I can't mix them together, I can't blend for toffee- so on the whole I've spent most of my life just staying away from eye shadows..

Having said that, when I do apply it I do like the look of it- especially now I seem to have an idea of what colors suit me (i.e. not sky blue)

However I got lost in my make up cupboard earlier and started looking at my eye shadows and realized that they are all so similar. I have sold loads of these and could quite happily get by on owning just two eye shadows. (As for lipsticks on the other hand....)

I decided to just share the MAC eye shadows today as otherwise we'd be here all day.

*Click on images to enlarge for full details

Satin Finish Eye shadows

L-R: Shroom: Soft beige with a slight shimmer

Soba: Gold brown with golden shimmer

Brule: Soft creamy beige

These three colors are easy to wear day to day, as a lid color and highlight color.

Frost Finish Eye Shadows

L-R:

Phloof: Frosted off white

Tissue Weight: Light salmon peachy pink (Ltd Ed.as no longer on website)

Satin Taupe: Mushroom color with silver shimmer

Bronze: Gold Brown with gold bronze shimmer

My most worn eye shadow this year has been Satin taupe, I simply love its versatility; I can use it as a day to day color or build it up much more and make it into a more smokey look for evenings.

A mixture of finishes

Honeylust: A bronze toned peach

Honesty: A pewtered bronze

Mulc: a reddy brown with a bronze pearl finish

Samoa Silk: Described as a Polynesian peach

Honeylust, Honesty, Mulch, Samoa Silk.

Out of these four colors Honeylust and Honesty are the easiest to wear, and Mulch is a great crease shade.

Bisque, Malt and Zingy - Matte Shades

Funnily enough in this picture you're looking at my most worn color and my least worn color, can you guess which is which?

L-R:

Zingy- a bright matte turquoise (looks exactly like Electric Eel to me..?)

Bisque: A soft muted pinky beige

Malt: Soft pinkish beige.

Malt is my all time most used eye shadow ever.. It's the first eye shadow I have ever hit pan on and it goes with everything at any time. It's matte and just works perfect as an eye shadow base for loads and loads of crease colors. Love this and will re-purchase at some point.

Bisque- ironically enough, as similar as it looks to Malt, it really isn't and I have used it once maybe twice and not keen on the feel of it or the look of it.

Zingy was given to me a few days ago so I have yet to actually try it out to see what it might look like.

If I HAD to chose two colors and get rid of the rest, the two I would chose are Malt and Satin Taupe-

love these two.

Looking at my MAC eye shadow collection I am thinking I need to step away from the browny bronzes and try and steer away from the shimmer as well as I actually prefer matte eye shadows to shimmery ones.

Actually the same color theme runs through all my eye shadows, I have a fair few Urban Decay ones and all sorts of different high street brands as well as quite a few Becca, Clinique and Lancome.

Despite having said all that- eye shadows really aren't my *thing* - and I'd go for foundation or lipstick any day as my first choice for make up..

Thanks for reading and I look forward to your comments if you have any x

The AMAZING 10 stone weight loss journey by my friend Lauren Mae

2011-09-19T22:57:00.009+01:00

Pop over and join my Health & fitness blog:

Get fit with Stina

The AMAZING 10 stone weight loss journey by my friend Lauren Mae

Hi all my lovely readers- I am sorry I've been away from my diet & fitness blog for some time.. I've had an incredibly hectic time.

I am back now and what better way to kick off with an AMAZINGLY inspirational weight loss story from my friend Lauren.. Lauren looks incredible now and it's so hard to believe she used to be double the woman she is now.

My chat with Lauren Mae is here- you will be TRULY amazed at her weight loss success..

Lauren is truly beautiful and also AMAZING at doing make up- I think we need Lauren to become involved in beauty blogging/ you tubing too!

Welcome to Lauren Mae's incredible weight loss story.

Here are some WOW effect pictures

2009

Lauren as I know her now- stunning!

Lauren has a Youtube channel where you can follow her journey : http://www.youtube.com/user/blueeyedbetty

1: Lauren, if you don’t mind, what was your weight before you started your diet? And what is your goal / what would you like to get to? Size wise or weight wise?

At the beginning of my weightloss journey I weighed 22 stone 7lbs and I was a size 28!! I am 5ft7 so I was classified as morbidly obese. I didn't start off with a goal size or weight because it would have been way too daunting, I didn't ever set goals for myself because they always made me go off track.

2: What made you think “I want /need to lose this weight?”

Leading up to my largest weight I was always happy but I really decided I wanted to lose weight to feel better about myself and feel more attractive and obviously for the health benefits too! I did have a couple of embarrassing "fat person" moments including not being able to fit into the Easy Jet plane seat and then breaking the steps coming out of the swimming pool on holiday!! I knew things had to change!

3: And how much have you lost so far?

I have been losing weight for 3 years and so far I have lost 9 stone 8 lbs! (I did get down to 10stone lost but I don't know whether to say that I put on a couple of pounds but I am back on track!??)

4: Did anyone recommend a particular diet to you or how did you decide what food to eat?

Would you mind sharing what foods you eat in a typical day, snacks and everything, so we can get an idea..? How many calories do you aim for per day, if you count calories?

When I first started decided to lose weight my Mum bought Paul McKennas "I can make you thin" book. I was VERY sceptical about this as it sounds too good to be true, but it is fantastic! He teaches you great tips about eating what you want, eating slowly and stopping when you feel satisfied. This worked well for the first 4 stone of my weight loss but then I became tired and hit a wall. It was hard mentally to overcome the fact that I had come so far but still had SO FAR to go! I was in a job that I hated and became quite depressed so I went to see my doctor. She suggested that for quick and healthy weight loss that I give up major carbohydrates!! Baring in mind at the time they were my total diet so this seemed like an impossible task. Here is my diet:

Things I CAN'T eat:

Bread

Potatoes

Rice

Pasta

Noodles

Fizzy drinks

Processed food including cheese and meat

Low fat foods or products (too many artificial chemicals and rubbish!)

Nothing naughty, no cake, chocolate, crisps, sweets

Things I CAN eat:

Meat

Fish

Cheese

Eggs

Vegetables

Fruit

Milk

Water

I know that everything has carbohydrates in it but I cut out the main ones. I have salads everyday and I love them. I always have full fat dressing because I don't believe in making yourself hate the food you are eating, because if you hate the food then you are much more likely to fail.

This may seem too strict or limited but everybody is different and in order for me to get results I needed to do this.

5: And on this journey – you decided to join a gym too, am I right? How did that come about?

Yes, I joined a gym when I first started losing weight January 2008. No matter what anyone says about losing weight the one sure thing is, EXERCISE IS THE KEY! I was incredibly unfit when I joined and I was so embarrassed because of my size but I realised after a couple of visits that everyone is so paranoid about themselves nobody is looking at you.

6: And how are you finding the gym? Has it helped? Do you like going?

The gym has really changed me because now my fitness and strength is through the roof and it would never had improved if I hadn't been working out through my weightloss. I would love to build up enough fitness to do a marathon!

7: In terms of yourself and your confidence – I bet you must have changed so much, from who you were to how you are now? Are you more outgoing for example?

Suroprisingly enugh it is a VERY scary thing losing this much weight because not only are you changing in your own mind, you are changing in other peoples eyes and you are learning to be a totally different person. When I was at my largest I didn't really go out, I would stay in and just eat, but now I can't get out enough! By the end of Monday I have already planned my whole weekend coming up!

8: What is the best thing about having lost all of this weight?

CLOTHES, I started shopping in plus size shops when I was about 16 so I have never really had the experience of being able to go into any shop and just buy clothes. It is fantastic!!

9: Do you ever cheat? Or have off days?

After I gave up carbs in March 2010 I didn't cheat for about a year and a half! Recently I have been having carbs occasionally as I am trying to slowly bring them back into my diet. I am being very careful though as it is a scary prospect.

10: Where do you find all this will power and motivation? Personally I have to be in a *zone* and if I am not, I just can’t do more than one day and I’ll cheat!

You are exactly right. I have to find my "zone" when I am in it, I am unstoppable. I am tempted by things but never give in. I am very stubborn :-D

11: What about alcohol – do you drink? How do you count that into the diet? As we all know alcohol can be a sneaky one for calories..?

I love wine! Alcohol is something that I have never limited, I drink maybe once or twice a week. I never count the calories as it would scare me!

12: You clearly look absolutely amazing now.. Are there any downsides to such a huge weight loss?

Thank you, the only downside is that I have some loose skin on my stomach that I am working on and my boobs have shrunk but in general I love my new figure!

13: Have you had support from anyone, and did you find that it helped?

My parents have been an amazing help, I go to the gym with my Mum at times and they help with with food as it is incredibly hard to keep up the motivation all the time.

14: Lastly, have you thought about the future, and how you will keep the weight off? That is sometimes a struggle for some people (for me it is...)

It is another scary prospect but I would love to get down to my goal weight and take a course to because a fitness instructor or personal trainer. I would love to help others to reach their goals too.

I just want to say a huge well done, you look incredible and I wish you all the best for the last bit of your journey.

Thank you so much x

I am sure people reading this will be as amazed as I am at Lauren’s fantastic achievement, and there might be comments below, if anyone has any comments & questions then I shall pass them to Lauren to answer.

To follow Lauren Mae’s story – you can go here www.youtube.com/blueeyedbetty to subscribe to her channel x

Lauren & her partner in Lauren's old jeans!

GOSH Glitter nails review & NOTD pictures

2011-09-19T13:26:00.001+01:00

Happy Monday to my gorgeous readers

GOSH nail glitter pots

I have had these on my list to try for a while, and I've finally gotten around to trying them on.

They are a fun sparkly way to make your talons sparkle for a special occasion - maybe an upcoming (dare I say) festive party...

I'll take you through what I did here.

What do you get?

1 pot of glitter - there is a choice of 10 colors.

I have silver & gold.

These little pots are designed for you to dip your finger in after 1 coat of clear polish, and the fine milled glitter will then stick to the wet & tacky nail varnish.

The pots are half full so you can get the full nail in but I must admit I still ended up getting glitter everywhere.

Silver & Gold glitter

I used a nude polish for this but it didn't matter much as the glitter covers it..

I found if the coat of nail polish was too thick the glitter didn't go on very smoothly, had a lumpy look to it.

So I tried sticking with a very thin coat and then quickly dipped nail into the glitter..

Any excess that got stuck to my finger, I could just blow off..

As a result the rest of me and my clothes now look super sparkly too!

GOSH Gold Glitter Nails

This application is without a topcoat, as you simply can't use a top coat, as the whole bottle would be filled with stray gold glitter, as the brush would pick up all the loose flecks.

GOSH GOLD GLITTER

I think they look pretty & sparkly but for me it would definitely only be for a night out..

On the whole the application was easy and very quick - albeit rather messy but that could just be me, I am not the daintiest of hand!

These little pots of glitter are available in Superdrug for £3.99- have you tried them?

Please leave your comments below if you have anything you'd like to say or share :)

John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Spray (bye bye to dark roots)

2011-09-15T16:25:00.001+01:00

Hey lovely readers

Today I have THE MOST EXCITING product to share with you- this has literally saved me!

Saved from from walking the street looking like a sad old skunk

Me when my roots needs doing

And it's saved my purse from the hair dressers grasp.

Last week I was desperately looking to find a good hair dresser who was also cheap..Do these even exist?

I found a reasonably priced one once, but when she applied 40% pure bleach to my roots me and her parted ways.

Out of the blue I got sent this little miracle product that I will tell you about.. It's absolutely brilliant and soo cheap!

John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Spray

This little gem at first had me suspicious.. I was discussing with a fellow blonde friend that the chances were that it might turn my hair orange and I'd be in for a *Sun In*experience all over again- reliving my yoof and all that.. I have to admit I was slightly nervous when I used it the first time..If you're blonde you'll know why. We've all had the dreaded orange tinge to our roots.

Products have somewhat evolved since then!

You are supposed to spray it onto towel dried hair and then blow dry as normal, in fact the more heat on the hair the more effective. I tend to only really use hair dryers on a daily basis and very occasionally tongs.

I sprayed it in, it comes out as a clear slightly scented mist, I waited for a while - the instructions do not say you must wait, but I was just being a bit lazy!

Eventually I dried my hair but as it was evening I didn't really notice anything different.

However the next morning when I looked in the mirror I noticed immediately that my dark roots were gone.. And in their place was just lovely natural looking blonde hair, not a tinge of orange in sight.

The first thing my (attentive) colleague said when he was me was "Ohh your hair looks different, it's much blonder, did you have it done" (YAY!!)

I was so pleased with the results and used it again a few days later but this time paying more attention to the back of my head as I wear my hair up a fair bit these days, and wanted it to be blonder underneath too.

It did the trick and lightened my hair at the back (underneath if you like) a treat.

I have now used the spray maybe 4-5 times and I totally cancelled any plans for the hair dresser, as I simply hair no need now. My hair is blonder all over and not a hint of roots.

I cannot tell you how happy I am about this and I am going to reccomend this product to all that will listen!

Roots be gone

(Excuse the crop job, I wasn't wearing makeup and looked scary)

Now because I was skeptical I didn't take before pictures but I can assure you my highlights were long overdue.

Of course this contains peroxide and it is recommended on the box that you do a strand test before actually spraying it on your roots, but I guess I live life on the edge (oops) so I sort of left that part out.

The products says you'll see results in 3-5 uses, which in my case is certainly true, and I am going to leave it for a bit until I get roots through again.

Totally Highly recommend you give this a try- believe me I am fussy with how my hair looks and if this had not done the job there is no way I would sign its praises this highly.

Now go go go- get it in Boots and I imagine Superdrug e.t.c for a mere £6.99

Ohhh and I have just noticed Boots are doing 3 for 2 on most hair products- even more reason for grabbing this baby!

GET IT HERE

Have a great day everyone and thanks for reading x

Chic Beauty Blog

Nail of The Day - GOSH Boot Camp

Dove maximum protection - I LOVE IT!

Nails of the Day - OPI Manicurist of Seville

Nails of the Day - Ciate Cookies & Cream

Say Hay To Scarlet (GHD) She's Red Hot!

Nails of the Day - Hyperreal by Topshop

Olay Total Effects Sensitive Moisturiser

I miss you.

A few make up storage ideas

OPI~ Designer, De Better NOTD

Do What You DO Without Messing Up Your Doo! My Tassi.

Enter to win £100 voucher to Skin Health Spa & lots more.

Laboratories Filorga Optim-eyes & Meso-Mask reviews.

Red Sparkly Nails by Barry M & OPI

Christ·mas

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My recent Beauty Buys- Haul Time.

FANTASTIC 17 Competition - don't miss out.

How would you like to win a makeover with 17’s official make-up artist Vanesa Guallar?

What about tickets to an exclusive Summer Camp gig for you plus two, with an overnight stay and £500 of high street shopping vouchers and an overnight stay in a top London hotel.

There are lots more prizes up for grabs too, all you need to do is go to the "Get Involved" tab on www.facebook.com/17Cosmetics and fill in your email details by 27th November 2011.

Don't forget to "Like" their page too.

Ive got some reviews coming up soon of some gorgeous 17 cosmetic products, can't wait to share x

OPI Rainbow Connections worn with Mavala black .

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My Top Five Best Performing Products..

Even toes need a little love ~ PediPro Bullet~ Home Pedicure

Models Own Purple Grey Nail Of The Day.

AX-Paris - So many dresses so little time....

Kerastase Elixir Ultime - if you want the silkiest locks in town.

When you want POW! hair without frizz..

30-day mind body and abs challenge - update..

Wavy Hair Video Tutorial - Toni & Guy Deep Barrel Waver

Be Happy In Your Skin. -My Skin Care Routine- (video included)

What is in my make up bag right now?

If you want to subscribe to my new you tube channel it is here

My You Tube Channel

LUSH Lemony Flutter - A fantastic cuticle butter

My current favorite products

My First Ever Attempt at a You Tube Video...

MAC Glitter & Ice Iced Delights collection lip bag in "Sultry".

Benefit *They're Real* Mascara Giveaway Winner..

Revlon Facets of Fuchsia- an AMAZING NOTD!

Bourjois, A word please.

30 day Mind / Body and Abs challenge - WILL SHE DO IT?

Toni & Guy Deep Barrell Waver Review

Perfect Dior Nude Natural Glow Creme-Gel Foundation Compact

Dior Nude Natural Glow Creme Gel Compact #Medium Beige 030

The Bottom line is.... Slendertone!

Benefit *They're Real* Mascara Giveaway Open To Blog Subscribers

Laura Mercier Lip Glaze Pictures, Swatches & Review

Outfit of Yesterday ~ some favourite pieces!

OPI "My Address Is Hollywood" from Touring America Collection

NANOBLUR 10 years younger in 40 seconds- Yay or Nay?

Make a child smile this Christmas ~Operation Christmas Child~

Sigma Beauty 8 Make Up Brushes Travel Kit Give Away- WINNER-

Blow Your Own Horn- a shout out to fabulous bloggers ~Part One~

Geodesis Fig Tree Diffuser ~home fragrance review~

MAC Eye shadow pictures& swatches of my MAC eye shadow collection.

The AMAZING 10 stone weight loss journey by my friend Lauren Mae

Pop over and join my Health & fitness blog:

The AMAZING 10 stone weight loss journey by my friend Lauren Mae

GOSH Glitter nails review & NOTD pictures

John Frieda Go Blonder Lightening Spray (bye bye to dark roots)

Benefit They're Real Mascara Giveaway Winner..

Benefit They're Real Mascara Giveaway Open To Blog Subscribers