The Winter Beauty Wish List

My Beauty Christmas List by whatlaradidnext featuring a matte eye shadow

Viktor Rolf eau de perfume / Ole Henriksen face cleanser, $39 / Laura Mercier body cleanser / Christian Louboutin nail polish / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics matte eye shadow, $77 / Bobbi brown cosmetic

Morning guys so it's still only November but for the most part - a lot of us have already started, if not finished your Christmas shopping by now. I will be the first to raise my hand and say that I have not even in fact started my Christmas shopping yet. I just haven't had time, this past two months has been such a busy one, I really don't know where the days have gone! Rest assured though guys,  I will be starting my gift shopping probably sometime next week. I have made a list though, I know what I'm getting everyone, for me it's just a case of finding the time to dedicate a full weekend to shopping and of course choosing my gift wrapping colour scheme for the year - the most important part, obvs...

I have also had time to peruse the Selfridges website and have a good old browse around the likes of House of Fraser and Sephora to get a little idea of what I am hoping to receive in my stocking this year. Every year people are like 'what do you want for Christmas this year' and the majority of the time, my response goes something like 'I don't know get me whatever'. Generally I think I'm pretty easy to buy for, anything make up, skincare, perfume and I'm a happy bunny.

So in true WLDN style, here for you all is my Beauty Wish List. This one goes out to the people who have no idea what they want for Christmas and need to get together some ideas  and also a sneaky little hint to those who are one the hunt for a Christmas/Birthday gift for yours truly and haven't a clue where to start ;). Essentially, along with being my own personal wish list, at a wild guess I believe quite a few of these products are on the wish list of Beauty fanatics all over the UK so also think of this as a gift guide for the beauty blogger/make up addict.

Without further a due, lets have a little chat about the products in the collage above, shall we?

First up is the Tom Ford Contour palette. Yes I know what you're thinking, you read the words Tom Ford and your ears pricked up and dollar signs appeared in your eyes. So as a general rule, yes Tom Ford is a little on the expensive side and a bit of a luxury product. However I believe once in a while adding something a little more luxurious to your make up collection is very rewarding. On days where you want to look your best, you want to reach for a product that's just that little bit more special. On a similar note, the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow palette is also a very similar palette to this Tom Ford one and would also make an equally amazing gift for someone.

So next on the list is the Bobbi Brown Powder Brush. It's fair to say, again this product is a little on steep end of the spectrum price wise but if you can't treat yourself or others at Christmas, when can you? As many of the famous Make Up Artists out there will tell you, investing in good make up brushes is a biggie. If you're buying expensive products you want a good tool to distribute the product, right? So I don't actually own any Bobbi Brown Brushes at present but I've heard they're pretty damn good. Although this Brush is listed as a Powder Brush, I reckon it could also be doubled up as a Contour Brush. If this Brush is a bit out of your price range, I would 100% recommend the Real Techniques Brushes by Pixiwoo. They're a lot more affordable and are really amazing at doing their job.

Ahhh Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb - This is one of them Perfumes I can smell a mile off but have never actually owned my self. Flowerbomb is one of them delicate, lovely feminine fragrances that I think every girl should own. Ever since my friend April got this for Christmas years ago I've been obsessed with the perfume but as I've mentioned before I can never actually justify buying perfumes my self as they're pretty expensive. In the fragrance department, I usually wait until my Birthday/Christmas. Along with YSL Black Opium, perfume wise these two are one the top of my wish list. Flowerbomb is perfect for day time whereas YSL Black Opium is more of an evening scent.

So I've spoken about the Christian Louboutin Nail Lacquers before here but have still not got round to purchasing one for my self and if my estimations deem me correctly I would say a lot of girls are hoping to receive one of these for Christmas. If luxury brands don't interest you, I would say Barry M is your best bet - it pretty much does the job for me and I'm a big fan of the brand. However as somebody who doesn't own anything Louboutin and loves anything Beauty - having the Christian Louboutin Nail Lacquer would be a dream. Again this product is pretty luxurious and expensive but if want to put a smile on someones face, this product will most certainly do just that.

Next on the list is the Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Honey Bath. Mmm this product sounds and looks good enough to eat! I've never owned anything Laura Mercier myself but from what I can gather from a lot of bigger bloggers and Youtubers, it seems to be a firm favourite when it comes to bath time. So if you know anybody who is willing to spend hours in the bath indulging in their favourite book and sipping on a glass of wine - this bath creme would be absolutely ideal. I imagine the scent of this would fill the room with Caramel & Vanilla loveliness and would be a dream bath product for any girl.

So it seems another Bobbi Brown product has made it way onto my list this month. Yep you guessed it, it's the Smokey Nudes Eyeshadow Palette. If you've heard of the Urban Decay Naked Palette ranges and know someone who is a big fan of them, then this is the perfect gift. The Palette contains a range of sandy/golden shades with a mixture of matte & shimmery finishes. I imagine this to look stunning on the eyes!

Last but certainly not least is the Ole Henriksen Pure Truth Melting Cleanser. So I've never bought anything from this brand but came across it when I was browsing on Selfridges and it immediately grabbed my attention. As a recent convert to skincare, this product was screaming buy me, buy me! My sister is a big fan of the Melting Cleanser Gels and they seem to work your skin a real treat and is definitely a product I would love to get a hold of my self. So if you know someone who is obsessed with Skincare products and has a stash that could rival the aisle of Superdrug then this is the perfect gift.

What is on your Christmas List this year?

October Wishlist

October Wishlist by whatlaradidnext 



Hey my lovelies so another month has passed and here I have the October edition of my Beauty Wishlist. Summer is now officially done and dusted so we can now welcome Autumn/Fall with open arms ready for the colder months ahead.  I absolutely love this time of the year, as you can probably tell from my previous post.

So with October landing on our door step, the beauty counters and shops are starting to stock up on their gift sets and limited edition products which we're all desperate to get our hands on. Brands are releasing winter collections that are to die for this season and I can't wait purchase them. 

These are a couple of the items I am totally lusting after at the moment...

1. Lush Snow Fairy - I have never tried this product before and I have no idea why, the pink formula and super girly name is something I would normally have snapped up straight away. However, it wasn't until this year that I really got into this whole blogging thing and so until fairly recently I've been oblivious to this product. Rest assured though, this product will soon be in my loving arms - along with several other Lush products. Their Christmas and Halloween collections look amazing, I can't wait to go on a mini Lush spree!

2. Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium - You guys know I love YSL. I am obsessed with their make up, the Saint Laurent clothing line is to die for, yet the price tag is a little out of my reach and their scents are amazing. I have been desperate for the YSL Manifesto since forever and still haven't purchased that. I mean, I know when I love a perfume but it isn't something I'm willing to fork out for my self - I usually wait until Christmas/ my birthday for expense fragrances like this. With YSL having just released the Black Opium fragrance in the most beautiful bottle, I am super desperate to get hold of this product. I guess it's one for the Christmas list! 

3. Rimmel London - Brow This Way - I am obsessed with my Benefit Gimme Brow, it works wonders for my blonde barely there brows and preens them right into place. My only objection to Gimme Brow is that it is expensive - £17.50.  I reckon  I purchase one of these a month, so when I discovered there is a cheaper alternative on the market my eyes turned into love hearts. I reckon I'm going to purchase this at some point this month and give it a try. From previous blogger reviews, I can see in comparison to Gimme Brow that the brush is a lot bigger so may be more difficult to work with, however once it's been tried and tested by yours truly I shall give you the final verdict. 

4. Barry M Gelly  in shade Almond - I love this collection by Barry M. I am not much of an expert in the field of Nail Lacquer but I've tried numerous shades from this collection and they just work for me. Y'know? Like the finish is perfect and the colours within this collection are right up my street. I think this colour will be a great addition to my existing collection and will work well through the A/W months. 

5. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Glastonberry - I'm fairly new to the world of Charlotte Tilbury make up. I'll be honest, I didn't take much notice of the brand until I noticed her products appearing on the bigger blogs and when Kim Kardashian got her glam from the woman her self on a recent whistle stop trip to London. However it seems Miss Tilbury has got the beauty world hooked. She's a really successful MUA herself so seems to know what she's talking about when it comes to make up products. At the moment I've got my eye on Glastonberry Matte Lipstick from her new Matte Revolution collection. I think this is the perfect winter berry shade and would actually compliment my pale complexion. The lipsticks are pretty pricey (£23) so at the moment I'm unsure as to whether this is something I will actually go ahead and purchase, again maybe this is one for the Christmas List! 

6. Clarins Beauty Flash Balm - So I'm kinda cheating here. I've actually ordered one of these now - I did this wishlist a week or so ago and since then have perused the Clarins site repeatedly until taking the plunge and doing a big order, which should hopefully arrive today so I will let you know my final thoughts once I have given everything a go and will probably do a Clarins haul shortly as well!  

A Peek Into The Beauty Bag - The Sister Edition

Hey my lovelies so today for you, I have something rather different to my usual posts in the fact that it's not about me or any of the products I own. Instead, I thought I would give you all a break from my blabbering and introduce you to my sister - Paris and the contents of her make up bag and skin care routine.

So before Paris gives you the low down on her must have Skin Care products products or her military procedure skin care routine I thought I would just tell you a bit about her and why I thought she was a good first candidate for this blog post. So of course, Paris is my older sister (not the eldest she's the middle one, I'm the youngest). She is 22 and currently studying to become a Nurse at Northumbria University. Paris' life involves juggling working at Costa, working out in the gym like a mad woman, eating pizza & kinder Happy Hippos and squeezing in time to make herself look like a princess every day! Paris & I are very similar in the fact that we either wear no make up at all and totally chill out or we go completely over the top and dress ourselves up to look like a Prin, no in between and no exceptions. Although we differ in numerous ways, a topic that always brings us both together is Shopping. We're both self confessed beauty addicts, whilst make up is my fort and of course -Paris's, skin care is definitely something Paris is an expert in. She has her skin care routine down to a T, I mean I've been taking notes cause this girl is always glowing. So without no further a-due here is Paris and her must have products!

*Enter Paris*
So today, my sister has asked me to talk about my skincare routine. I have suffered with acne for a few years now, many girls and boys do suffer from this and it can lower your confidence. My skincare is very important and I truly believe that having a good routine can help to minimize this and also repair the skin. I choose to use products from the Clarins skincare range because they use natural ingredients and they feel great on your skin.

My Morning Routine 
Every morning I cleanse and moisturize my skin with Clarins Combination Skin Facial Cleanser and the Alpine Willow Herb Toner, the cleanser refreshes my skin whilst the toner has a soothing affect. This always leaves my skin feeling fresh and revived. You have to remember that during the night you do sweat and pick up bacteria from your pillows so it is important to just cleanse your face in a morning to help remove any bacteria. To finish off my morning routine I always apply Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, this product is fantastic for brightening up tired skin and leaves your skin with a fresh natural looking glow.

My Evening Routine
Every girls knows there is nothing better than taking your make up off after a long day and letting your skin breathe. To start off my night time routine I use Clarins Manuka Honey Cleansing Melt Gel, I simply apply this directly onto my skin and rub in circular motions for about a minute then I remove using warm water and cotton pads.

Twice a week I exfoliate my skin using Clarins Exfoliating Refiner, this Exfoliator is perfect for your face and feels great on your skin. The soft microbeads gently massage your skin whilst removing dead skin cells and debris, leaving you with perfectly smooth & soft skin.

One product that has been like gold dust for me is the new Re-Balancing Oil made from 100% Lotus Oil. I was first given a sample of this from the beauty counter and was recommended this to help with the acne on my face. I remember thinking is this woman crazy, surely oil would just make it worse?! Anyway I tried this product for a week using the sample bottle I was given. On the fourth day I woke up and I looked in the mirror and could not believe how clear and soothed my skin looked. Before then, I could not remember the last time I looked into the mirror and felt nice with my make up on, it felt amazing and made day. Now I apply a few drops onto my skin every night and massage it into my skin (you can also add a few drops to your moisturizer). I found that whenever a spot flares up this oil seems to reduce the inflammation around that and calms the skin down. So to anyone with bad skin, try this product because it worked wonders for me and I couldn't live without it. It is pricey and costs £36 but it is worth every drop. Next time you're around a Clarins beauty counter don't be afraid to ask staff for a sample because that's why they have them.

So - I hope you enjoyed reading a slice of my sisters insight into skincare and hopefully it has given you all some super top tips - especially if you suffer with bad skin! If you would like to see another post like this please pop a comment below. I really enjoyed working with Paris on this post and hope you all had fun reading it!

Do you use Clarins? What are your must-have Skin Care products?

September Wishlist

September Wishlist by whatlaradidnext featuring Christian Louboutin

Morning guys so I've skipped the August Wishlist and I'm jumping straight in with the September one. This months list is super luxurious and very pricey, but a girl can't help wanting something can she?

So first things first, you may have noticed this list is very heavy in YSL & Estee Lauder products. Don't worry guys it hasn't gone un-noticed. The thing for me is, if I try a few products from a brand and every time I walk away satisfied, it just makes me fall in love with a brand and their army of products. YSL & Estee Lauder are just the sort of brand that bring it every single time. Their branding is on point, maybe on the expensive side yes but the products always deliver what they promise too and with very little error. These two brands have just become a holy grail brand for me, I mean I just wish I could buy everything on their beauty counters - which, if the disposable income was there, believe me I would.

So first of all, this month I've been on a quest and this quest involves finding the perfect skincare routine. I'll be honest, my skincare routine could be better and less slack but make up is my fort - not skin care. So if any of you guys can link me to your skincare routine or suggest some amazing products to me, it would be very much appreciated! I want to formulate the perfect routine and really look after my skin, so I'm open to any offers! Anyways, the product relating to this little rant that I'm wanting to get hold of is most definitely the Estee Lauder Take It Away Make Up Remover. I'm guilty of reaching for the face wipe far too often and really need to start using proper solutions that will completely remove my make up. I mean, I'm never one to sleep in my make up, I always remove it before I go to bed but I can't help but think my Face wipes and Face Wash isn't quite enough to remove excess make up and really cleanse my skin.

Next up is the YSL Rouge Volupte Lipstick - Honestly I love this stuff. I got a shade for Christmas which was just almost a really light balm with a hint of gloss/glitter to it. I loved it so much in fact, that I actually used it most days and I've now almost ran out. Stupidly though, I've slung the product around in my make up bag for that long that the actual shade name has scraped off, so I'm not actually entirely sure which colour I had but I definitely want to repurchase. My instincts tell me it was the Lingerie Pink shade! I would also love to have this colour in a Deep Red tone too, so again suggestions are welcome ladies/gentlemen.

A MAC Lipstick I've had my eye on for some time now is the shade Rebel, it's a deep berry purple shade and it looks amazing! As you gals' all know I don't go for Pink shades I'm all about the berry and red tones. I just think this would be the perfect winter lipstick to wear one a date night or a night out and I am determined to get my hands on it. Every MAC Lipstick that I've ever purchased has always stood me in good stead - apart from the shade 'Saint Germain', this Lipstick doesn't suit me at all! Generally though, as a rule all my MAC Lipsticks seem to last ages and always make my make up look just that little bit more glam, do you know what I mean?

Another MAC product that I need to be swiftly brought into my life is the MAC Mineralize Skin Finish. This is a baked frosted powder - or essentially a Highlighter. I've seen this on the MAC counter and have been so tempted to purchase it every time I go to MAC. It looks so beautiful, it's almost a metallic looking powder. I've never used a Powdered Highlighter neither so I would like to see how it works, it just looks as though it would give you that real Kim Kardashian Glow and I mean, c'mon who isn't all about that dewy cheek glow these days?!

Since I have so much love for the Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation, I reckon it's about time I give their sister product - the concealer a bit of a go! I will put my hand up now and say I have never used a concealer before ooops. Am I missing out or something? I was thinking of purchasing the Revlon Colour Stay that Lily Pebbles always harps on about but since I realised that Estee Lauder have one that you team with the Double Wear I thought it would make sense to purchase that. I am really hoping to get hold of this product and see what magic concealer can do for me!

Now, lets talk about the YSL Fusion Ink Foundation, this highly anticipated product has only just recently hit the stores and I am itching to try it. I love the Touche Eclait Foundation so I am expecting great things of this product. The formula claims to deliver a flawless coverage that lasts up to 24 hours whilst still feeling light on the skin. If it delivers what it promises this could potentially be the perfect foundation. The packaging for the Foundation looks as luxurious as the formula sounds. The only thing I don't like the look of is the applicator wand. To me, a pump works just fine so why replace a mechaninism that works for something like that? Aside of the supposed' application method, this product sounds amazing! It also comes in 16 shades, which actually correspond to the Touche Eclait Foundation shades so I just know that I can pick up my usual shade without getting tested, perfect.

I really really want to try the flat powder brush from Space NK, I don't have this sort of brush in my make up collection at present, and the brush I got with my YSL Powder doesn't really work all that well so this would be a good purchase in my mind.

Last but not least is the Christian Louboutin Nail Lacquer. This product looks incredible, although it comes with a hefty price tag (£36) it just looks amazing! The packaging is no less than I expected of Christian Louboutin and actually stands at the same height as the highest heel Christian Louboutin ever made (the Ballerina Ultima) - wow! The Lacquer is available in numerous different shades, ones that catch my eye are the sweet pastel pinks and the ultimate red shade - Rouge Louboutin. If I was to purchase this product (which would be very naughty) then I would have to go for the Rouge Louboutin. The shade supposedly suits everyone with a formula that is highly glossy and chip resistant. I think it's brilliant that Louboutin has released a product that is a hint of luxury but something that is more affordable. I mean, not everyone can afford his wonderful Red Sole heels so the next best thing has got to be this superbly designed Nail Lacquer!

July Wishlist

July Wishlist by whatlaradidnext featuring a body moisturizer

Benefit waterproof makeup remover / Lip treatment, $25 / Body moisturizer, $17 / Body cleanser, $11 / River Island rose nail polish, $6.86 / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics shimmer makeup / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics shimmer blush / Sheer lipstick

Morning guys sooo after skipping June lets hop straight to my July beauty wishlist. These are all the products I'm lusting after right now. There are so many amazing products hitting the beauty shelves recently and I've been taking serious notes. If only money wasn't an object - I would have a dressing room resembling Sephora or House of Fraser right now. Unfortunately, money does exist and therefore I only have a limited amount in which is disposable to get my beauty fix with.

Now lets start off with the little Soap & Glory Orangeasm set, I've already used the Body Wash before and absolutely loved it and now I'm dying to re-purchase along with the Body Butter which I have no doubt, smells equally as yummy!

Next up is the wonderful Bobbi Brown. Now, I do have a tad confession. I've never actually purchased anything from Bobbi Brown before, well I tell a lie - I have but only as presents for others (my sister swears by the stuff).  I don't know why I haven't because their products are constantly appearing on my wishlist I just never actually go for it. I think I'm just a girl who is stuck in her ways and knows what she likes. I just get scared that what if I spend loads of money on a product and I don't like it - know what I mean? Right jolly good, now back onto topic again - today I have discovered the Bobbi Brown Sand Eye Palette. Now anyone else reckon this looks a little familiar? Yeah I'm thinking it's a potential sister to the Urban Decay Naked family or maybe its long lost relative or something but more glamorous and contemporary? I seriously want this Palette it looks incredible, super pigmented (of course that's what I imagine but can't comment as I haven't swatched or even purchased yet) and just a really beautiful selection of shades that really flatters the eyelid. I'm also desperate to get my self a Shimmer Brick. I bought this for my sister as a birthday present and really considered keeping it for my self as it just looked so pretty. Also, after seeing Tanya Burr rocking it in her Kim Kardashian Wedding Make Up Video I just thought, I need this stuff!

The Benefit They're Real Remover is another new product on my radar. As I mentioned before in my Benefit They're Real Mascara Review HERE the product is amazing but a bit of a nightmare to get rid of, so this would come in super handy I reckon.

Before I went to Stockholm my sister painted my nails for me in this gorgeous pinky/nude shade of the Barry M Gelly series and I seriously need this product in my life. It is so pretty and just looks really natural on the nail and at £3.99 it would be silly not to!

Last up is the Lip Balms/Sheen Lipstick/Glosses. Now I've used the YSL Rouge Volupte Shine before in a glittery, clear sorted of shade which is beautiful for everyday use (I'm wearing it as we speak) but I am desperate to try a more deep shade hence why its on my hit list this month. I am also wanting to try out the Benefit Lolli Balm - I imagine this product to have a similar finish to the YSL Rouge Volupte, light and sheen on the lips and very subtle and also how could I resist this super cute packaging?

What is on your beauty wish list this month? 

May Wishlist

May Wishlist by whatlaradidnext featuring MAC Cosmetics

Opi nail polish, $17 / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics sheer foundation, $44 / MAC Cosmetics makeup brush / Benefit mascara

It's that time of the month again where I'm pondering about what sort of products I hope to purchase on pay day! I mean it's generally a never ending list but if I had to narrow it down to just a few of the products I am desperate to get hold of (whether I will or not is a different question). So yeah, this is my lust list for this month.

As you can see above there is the Bobbi Brown Sheer Foundation Stick. Now, I've never used a Foundation Stick before and this really intrigues me. Whether it would just be a hand bag staple that I use on the go I don't quite know. All I know is I really want to try it!

Moving swiftly on to the right is the OPI Nail Lacquer in shade 'I can't find my Czechbook'. Now for all of you who don't already know. I never paint my nails and there is a valid reason for it - I'm bloody awful at it! I have the least steady hand in the world which usually results in varnish all over the skin surrounding my nail. Not only that but when I actually finish my nails I always always forgot that I've painted them and end up smudging them. So, my sister is now my newly appointed nail technician! Whenever I want my nails doing my sister will gladly do them and actually make them look half decent.  Now why this shade you ask? Well as you're probably aware - I am obsessed with the film Frozen (as with the majority of girls in the UK) and a while ago I saw a blogger write a post about Frozen inspired nails (Sorry I can't remember who) but they looked sooo pretty and I thought straight away - I'm all over that! So the plan is, I'm going to get this nail lacquer and ask my sister to paint my nails inspired by Frozen - in preparation for me going to Stockholm. The shade is kind of similar to the Swedish flag AND I'm going to an ice bar whilst I'm there so really it does all tie in perfectly! I have far too much time on my hands, I know...

Next on the list is the Benefit - They're Real Mascara. I don't actually have this my self but when I stayed at my sisters house a couple of weeks ago I asked if I could pinch hers and have a trial run and wow it really is a brilliant mascara. I have long eyelashes anyway but this mascara actually did make my look at though I had false eyelashes! The only problem was - because my eyelashes were so long they rubbed on my skin and gave me a bit of a panda eye issue. However, because it was such a good mascara I do really want to purchase it. I guess I will have to maybe be a little more patient in application and let the mascara dry properly before dashing off out the house!

Last but certainly not least is the Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation and the MAC 217 Blending Brush. The hype I've heard about the Chanel foundation has made me desperate to get it in my arms, along with the fact the packaging is so neat and chic! I have a feeling though that it is going to have a similiar finish to the YSL Touche Eclait Foundation.

The MAC 217 Brush has been on my mental wishlist for a long time now. Beauty bloggers seem to swear by this tool. I guess the reason I have to yet to have purchased it so far is because I do think £18 is expensive for a little blending brush but still - nevertheless, this doesn't change my want for this product.

Are any of these products on your wishlist this month? What is on your wishlist? I would love to know :) 

April Wishlist - Beauty Products

April Wishlist by whatlaradidnext featuring lips makeup

Shown above are just a few of the products I hope to get hold of this month!

I'm always on the look out for 'must have' items and which in my case is pretty much everything.  However, I've narrowed it down to the select few items that I'm desperate to get hold of.

Tigi Bed Head Dumb Blonde Conditioner - The last year or so I've been in the process of going back blonde and my hair is FINALLY at a blonde/silvery stage mixed with lilac tones thanks to Soul Urban! I understand that I now need to give my hair a bit of TLC and really look after it to maintain this lovely colour I've achieved.

MAC Mineralize Bronzer - If I'm honest this is a product that I actually need! I always use this bronzer as it got such a lovely finish and I've recently ran out so I've been borrowing my mums bronzer every morning which I don't think she is too impressed about but I've just not had time to go shopping recently.

MAC Lipglass - I am soooo desperate to get hold of a MAC Lipglass I've heard so many good reviews on them. As you all probably know by now I am 'die-hard' fan of MAC. I have lots of Lipsticks by them but no glosses and I think this would be a perfect summer addition to my make up bag.

Benefit High Beam - This is another beauty product I have been wanting for ages. Admittedly the only reason I haven't bought it is because I think it's quite expensive for the size of it but heaven knows I will still more than likely part with the money in exchange for this cute little make up must have. I have used High Beam before (borrowed my sisters) and it does add a really nice sheer effect to your cheek & brow bones.

Soap & Glory Breakfast Scrub - Initially, the thing that reeled me in on this product is the fact it has the word 'breakfast' in it, silly I know right?! But Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day and it looks good enough to eat! I am also already a big lover of S&G so just know that I will love this Breakfast Smoothie Scrub. You can never give your body too much Soap & Glory loving!

Lush Oatifix Face Mask - Lush is a place I absolutely love, I totally believe in what they're trying to achieve and probably don't buy enough as I should from there. I really want to get this Oatifix Face Mask, I have used it before. A few months back I popped into store and one of the lovely sales assistants kindly gave me some sampels of this and I absolutley loved it. It smells of wholesome oats and when you put it on you just know the nourishing ingredients are feeding your face with goodness! I also really like the fact you have to keep it in the fridge because all the ingredients are natural.

Lush Golden Egg- Now I know every harry and larry seems to be talking about this bath bomb but I am seriously so desperate to try it regardless. It just looks so pretty and glittery!

MAC Berry Lipstick - I have tonnes of Lipsticks, especially ones from MAC but for some reason all of mine appear to be Matte. I am soooo in need of one that's a bit glossier but one that stays put. This will be perfect for me. I know it's more of a winter shade but I really just don't suit peachy shades and always look best when I opt for a bold, dark statement look.

Naked 2 Palette Urban Decay - Again, I know this is a 'beauty blogger must have' but I am behind with the times okay so don't judge me. Plus the fact I've been using a Front Cover Palette that I've had for literally years (bad I know) but the hues are really similiar to the Naked Palette so I've never felt the need to have this in my life until now and now it's actually caught my eye I want it so bad - hurry up pay day!

Whats on your April Wishlist?

MAC Wish List

MAC Must-Haves/Wish List by whatlaradidnext 

As you all probably know from my previous posts on MAC foundation - I am a huge fan of MAC! If a product is that little bit more expensive but has better ingredients and qualities then I will always pay that little bit extra. Products I always buy from MAC without fail are my Foundation, Powder & Bronzer. However, the issue I face is: I see all these lovely products in MAC that I would like to purchase but god they're just so damn expensive. :( I always want to buy extras such as a brush cleanser but just cant justify it. 

In the collage above I have listed the products I really want! I currently use the Studio Fix Fluid Foundation which - don't get me wrong is really good and I've used it for the past 2 years now, but I just never feel like it lasts all day. It has great coverage and the NC 15 tone is the perfect shade for my skin (the most pale shade they do might I add) but it just doesn't last too great. So the other day I went into one of the MAC stores to discuss this with one of their make up artists. The first question she asked me was 'do you use a brush?' and of course my answer was no, which is silly really because I was bought a MAC brush set for Christmas. The reason I didn't use the foundation brush was because it always used to look 'liney' on my face but I think this was down to me being too inpatient to blend it in correctly. The first thing I did yesterday when I was doing my make up ( as the make up artist suggested) was to wash my foundation brush with some shampoo and then use it to apply my make up on. I'm so glad I listened to her because now I don't have to use as much foundation and I have a good even coverage.

She did however direct me to another foundation which is similar but has a slight more heavier finish, which was what I wanted ideally. It was the Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation aaaaand because I told her the studio fix powder I occasionally used gives me dry skin she showed me the Mineralize Skinfinish Natural which is a lot lighter on the skin and a lot kinder! So I said that when my current foundation is empty I will return and opt for these alternatives to give a try. 

With the weather getting colder and my skin being pale and extremely sensitive - I've also found some skin products that I would like to purchase at some point for my delicate skin (praying it will work wonders). First of all the Mineralize Volcanic Ash Exfoliator lets be honest even the substance in this bottle looks appealing - sparkly black! Who wouldn't want that? Anyways, this exfoliator is a blend of Volcanic Ash and Fine Sugar Crystals, the finish result is said to unclog & refine skin whilst at the same time making it soft and mineral-rich. At a quite expensive £22, I think I would be willing to try this product purely because of its unique look in appearance. Next on the skincare list regime would be the Lightful Moisture Creme  as my skin gets dry so easily and this product promises to hydrate your skin, as well as making your skin appear more luminous. The other skin care product I would really like to purchase is Mineralize Charged Water a liquid product that keeps your make up stay put all day long and replenishes your skin in the process. I often come home looking in the mirror thinking 'have I really looked like that all day' so if I could buy this product I wouldn't feel so miserable and self-conscious all the time. 

Last on my list is the primer which I really really need to invest in as it will again keep my make up on my face all day!! 

What do you think to my MAC wish list? What beauty products would you reccomend? 

5 Minutes with Lindsey Kelk!

I've always dreamed of living the NYC/ Carrie Bradshaw-esque lifestyle. Even more so after I read the wonderful works of 'I Heart NY' by the very lovely Lindsey Kelk. 'I Heart NY' still stands as my favourite book to date, probably because it mirrors my dream lifestyle. I was very lucky to catch the best selling author for a whirlwind interview...

Hi Lindsey! First of all - How did you get into writing?

I’ve always been a writer. I used to write stories in school and at home, even from when I was in infant school – I grew up with a lot of books, it didn’t occur to me that it was weird. When I got older, it was something I did to relax and for my own enjoyment, it seems crazy to me now that the books are out there in shops and that people are reading them.

Do you feel you're living the dream?

Ha, that’s such a difficult question. I love my life and I wouldn’t change it for anything but there’s plenty of non-glam nonsense going on in the background all the time that I’m pretty sure isn’t officially part of ‘the dream’.

Where about's in New York are you based?

I live in Park Slope, Brooklyn and I love it. It’s very chill and friendly and there are lots and lots of very yummy restaurants and fun bars. Vital.

Do you think you'll live in the big apple for the rest of your life?

My friends are here, my life is here. I just can’t imagine being anywhere else right now but I guess never say never? I love London and I spend a lot of time in LA, who knows?

Out of all the books you've written, which book do you think best mirrors the antics that have happened in your life?

It’s hard to say. Obviously I live in New York, just like Angela, but I wrote that book before I moved here. As much as I wish they were based entirely on real life, the books are fictional. Sniff.

Would you say Angela Clark is somewhat a spin off of Carrie Bradshaw?

I’m a big Sex and the City fan but Angela wasn’t based on anyone. She and Carrie both live in NYC, they both like a nice pair of shoes and they’re both writers but I think that’s really where the similarities end.

When you were at school, what was your dream job? 

Definitely a writer. I flirted with the idea of being an actress for ten minutes but I’m a storyteller at heart.

Who is your favourite fashion designer?

I love lots of different designers and I’m always finding new ones to fall for. I’m definitely a big Marc Jacobs fan though, just like Angie. Shoe-wise, I am constantly crushing on YSL and with bags, I would take my arm off for anything YSL, Alexander Wang or Mulberry.

Who is your style icon?

There isn’t one person in particular, I don’t think. I often find myself in similar styles to ZooeyDeschanel and Alexa Chung but I think that’s maybe because we all have a real love of vintage shapes and styles. 90% of my clothes have stripes, polka dots and Peter Pan collars – too many of my clothes look like they belong to a four year old or a nana. It’s a curse.

If you could take 3 items of clothing on a dessert island what would they be?

Striped t-shirt, polka dot shorts, t-shirt with a cute collar dress. Done and done.

What is in your make up bag at this very minute?

I don’t have a make up bag so much as a revolving handbag full of crap that comes out of three drawers full of slap. I’m disgusting. I have so much make up. Because it’s SO hot right now, I’m just wearing the same stuff every day – Pore-Fessional Primer from Benefit, La Mer SPF colour tint, Maybelline The Eraser concealer, Estee Lauder Cello Shots cheek stain, Dior Lip Glow balm and MAC pressed powder. On the eyes, if it’s a daytime, I’m just wearing MAC Shroom with Benefit They’re Real mascara and in the evening, I love Chanel Fresh Effects cream shadow in cool gold with Nars liquid liner in Koala and Chanel Style Yeux Waterproof in Espresso all blended together. If I’m smoking it out, I’ll add the sparkly dark brown from the Nars ‘And God Created Woman’ palette. I know that all looks like pretty high end stuff but when the weather is sticky and humid, I find the better brands last that bit longer and I don’t like to wear too much bright make up in the summer. When it cools down, I’ll be back playing with my drugstore haul!

What is your favourite food?

Oh god, there’s no way I could choose one thing. Living in New York is so hard, everything is delicious. I love pizza, tapas, Chinese, BBQ… it’s impossible. Sorry.

What drink do you have on a night out?

I’m a cocktail gal, preferably gin, preferably something tart and lemony. Yum.

What would your ultimate summer playlist?

I love Desire Lines, the new Camera Obscura album. It’s gorgeous.

What inspires your books?

Everything really. Mostly I look at what’s going on in my life and how that might affect someone like me, then build a story around that.About A Girl came out of a lot of my friends losing their jobs and going through huge life changes – obviously none of them nicked their flatmate’s lives and took off to Hawaii but going to Office Angels and getting a new job wouldn’t have made a very good book…

What beauty product do you swear by?

Hydraluron is AMAZING and really helps my skin when I’m travelling, plus I love Elemis Pro-Collagen cleansing balm and Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. After that, I can’t be without Benefit They’re Real mascara or Dior Lip Glow balm and shed loads of Jergens moisturiser.

What would your ideal day consist of?

Sleep. Lots of sleep. And probably a couple of chilled out hours on the sofa vegging out to Law & Order: SVU and then lunch with a friend, a bit of shopping in the afternoon, maybe get my hair did or pop into a spa and then dinner and drinks with one of my favourite people. Bliss.

How did you go about getting your first book published?

Same way as everyone else with a twist. I actually just a made a video explaining it all on my website which you can see HERE.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers? 

The best advice anyone can give you is to just write. When I wrote I Heart New York, I was writing a blog, a diary and the book, just to get used to putting words on a page. Read as much as you can, write as much as you can and just keep going – don’t edit or second guess yourself until your first draft is done.

In a nutshell, how did you get where you are today? 

Perseverance and taking chances. Life’s too short not to try.

Lindsey is launching her new book 'I Heart Christmas' very shortly. You can pre-order it by clicking here. 

Follow Lindsey on twitter: @LindseyKelk

What is your dream lifestyle? Do you love I Heart NY?

OPI brings you their new A/W 13 Collection: San Francisco

 OPI have just launched their new collection for this A/W. It is set to be the IT nail lacquer of the season. The collection entitled 'San Francisco' brings a street style come urban coast flair to the nails and toes. With a beautiful palette ranging from moody greys and blues to gorgeous jewel ruby tones, the collection is inspired by the cities most iconic elements.

San Francisco by Lena White (The UK Distributor of OPI) has a mixture of shiny finish polishes and urban textured matte finishes called the Liquid Sand Collection.

Lena White has changed the face of the nail industry over the past 30 years by bringing her expertise and knowledge of what women want to the table. Lena knows that women want:  Instant gratification and  the effortless style that beautifully manicured hands. Lena started as a rookie nail tech back in 1976 but has since used her motto to transform the nail industry and so the finished product of this hard work is the San Francisco A/W 13 collection. Click Here to buy San Francisco shades for yourself!

A few of my favourites from the collection are shown above(from left to right):

• Muir Muir On The Wall
• Embaraca Dare Ya
• Peace & Love & OPI
• Haven't The Foggiest
• First Date At Golden Gate
• It's All San Andreas Fault

Which of these shades are you going to be flaunting this season and why?!

Product Review: Backcomb In A Bottle

                                           

Ever since I've been interested in fashion, beauty and wearing make up, all I have ever known is a life led by shockingly flat and deflated hair. Why? Why was I born with long thick hair that has absolutely no volume? And the thing is - no matter how much hair spray I use or how much I back comb my hair to death, I have never once been able to achieve a sleek look in which my hair stays in place the whole night! (Just thank your self that you aren't me!)

Anyways, I've tried every kind of hairspray, salt spray and volume spray you can think of and yet still...NOTHING.

I've been a fan of the Umberto Giannini range for a while now, especially this grungey collection which is packaged in a matte black cylinder with a silver lid that features a fashion illustration on the bottle. So after wandering past this little beauty in Boots for months on end I finally gave in to my tight fisted ways and decide to purchase the 'Backcomb In A Bottle'.

I mean great, what could be better than a spray that backcombs your hair for you without having to torture your hair with a comb and tonnes of hairspray?! 

So without babbling on anymore, without no further do, here is the verdict:

*It DOES give your hair that extra poof that you need.

*The packaging is LFW worthy (world class!).

*I wouldn't say it completely backcombs your hair for you because that is impossible.

*& It keeps your hair in place which is great

Tip: don't spray too close to your hair or it will go rock solid and look unclean - as I found out when I did it the other week. 

In other words: go grab one for yourself! 

Closer Magazine work exp.

After weeks of spending my days writing out cover letters and sending my CV's to various publications, I was absolutely thrilled this morning when I received a phone call from Closer Magazine offering me work experience. However, the magazine is based in central London so hotels are going to cost me a bomb :(.

I automatically said yes obviously, because I mean how can I possibly turn an opportunity like that down? Writing or working in Fashion is what I want my future to be and so I need to make the most of this! I'm so excited, I couldn't think straight whilst I was on the phone. Its strange because these past few weeks I've been really down, because earlier this year I made the decision not to go to university but to make my way into the industry this way and then work my way up. Despite sending out applications here, there and everywhere I just began to feel a little disheartened as I was receiving nothing.

With all my friends talking about university, it had been constantly playing on my mind and making me think 'have I made the right decision?' - Last year I did work experience at Bliss Magazine and my local newspaper but this simply isn't enough to allow me to barge my way into the industry. So, after receiving this wonderful phone call today; I feel as though my hard work is paying off and maybe I have made the right decision after all. Only time will tell.

All I know is that I'm very excited right now! Just thought I'd share that with you all. xo

January Haul/Wanelo

Being the MAC obsessive that I am, I was more than impressed when my sister bought me this MAC Bronzer ( shade - Golden). Before receiving this I had been getting by on some bronzer I had owned for years on end, so this felt like a god send and I was extremely grateful. I'd definitely recommend this product as it really is worth it and gives your cheeks great definition. It works especially well, when used with the MAC Mineral Brush (as shown in the top right) - which is also another gift I received and now entirely depend on. 

If any of you know me, you will know that I have been slumming it with an awful scruffy purse for quite some time now and this weekend I just thought, you know - enough is enough. Time for a new addition. Therefore I popped into River Island and picked up this little beauty. At 10 swarzee (pounds) I cannot complain. Its pretty and it does the job. Again, if my previous posts are anything to go by, you will know that I have been desperate to get my hands on some spiked Jeffrey Cambells. Unfortunately these aren't the real thing *sigh* poor people problems, I know. However this almost exact replicate are good enough for me. 

I recently came across this new social networking platform for all you other fashionistas out there. Its amazing! I'm addicted already. Its an app called 'Wanelo'. God only knows how you pronounce it, but anyway you should seriously download it. The stream of products are available to buy at just one click and you can get some lovely unique stuff on here and some great quirky gifts! Follow me :-) - @larzxo

I was more than delighted when my friend bought me these for my birthday. I'm already a big fan of the pink and blue bottles - but honestly this Jelly Belly Very Cherry drink is something else. It tastes amazzzzzzzing. 

This is one of the presents that my boyfriend bought me from Eric Vintage in Newcastle. Obviously 'BEST' is my new favourite brand. There is also a shop in Leeds! I love love love it.

Hairrrrrlp me!

Don't know about anyone else but I'm so done with my hair. I

honestly don't know what to do with it anymore, I get bored ever so easily - therefore I decided to cut this feature out from Marie Claire to inspire me. I feel like my hair is the same every day. Has anyone got any suggestions on different up do's etc? I'd be very grateful. Thanks my lovely's!

Lipstick shout!

 Tomorrow I'm off shopping to spend a small fortune, my main aim to begin with was to buy the items I listed in my previous post, however when applying my make up this morning I noticed my favourite MAC lipstick was running out *sobs*...So I've decided I'm going to invest in maybe one or two new lipsticks. I currently have: Russian Red, Nicki Viva Glam (which i never wear because it doesn't suit me at all) and of course my favourite - Lady Gaga Viva Glam - The one which is running out.

I really want to purchase another pale pink lipstick because I think it suits me best, however i want this lipstick to have a different finish to what I normally have. Does anybody have any colour suggestions or names of MAC lipsticks they would recommend? I'd be really grateful. Obviously I will post a photo of all the items i purchase on my little outing!!!

MAC Studio Fix Fluid

Not normally one to review/gossip about the latest make up, I usually just buy the products as a necessity, apply it and get on with my day. However, recently it occurred to me how much make up can affect your appearance, the way you apply it can change your look as a whole. I think that foundation is a vital product because it gives your face the smooth canvas to work around. In my younger teenage years I never used to bother much with cosmetics and would tend to just opt for the cheap alternatives as opposed to going for a more ‘luxury brand’. However, in the past year or so I decided to start buying MAC cosmetics because I had heard a lot of hype about the products so thought I might give it a shot. 

Anyway - I’ll cut to the chase. Paying that little bit extra for your make up goes a long way, it has better coverage, a better finish and tends to last a lot longer. I have been using Studio Fix for the past year and now I wouldn’t even think about using another foundation. The consistency of the liquid isn’t too thick therefore you don’t get the ‘caked’ effect, the foundation is thin and can be distributed across the face evenly with little use. I’ve found that the product tends to last me around three months if used in moderation. Personally I believe this would be a great asset to your make up bag and a gift from heaven for your face.