Love Me Beauty Box || May Edition



Love Me Beauty Box* £12.95 (Including P&P)

 

For the last year or so beauty boxes have become quite the thing and after trying and testing my fair share, I've finally had the pleasure of trying out the Love Me Beauty Box, which is a beauty box with a special twist. Whilst its great having the element of surprise with most beauty boxes, Love Me Beauty offers us a choice of three menus to choose from, each menu slightly different so that it caters to more to our own personal taste and more importantly we have a little more say in what beauty products come though the door - I absolutely love this concept as nobody wants to receive something that they are just never going to use. If there really isn't anything in the beauty box that takes your fancy, you can always choose to skip a month; In my opinion this makes the Love Me Beauty Box the ultimate beauty box! I was so excited when my May beauty box arrived and for those of you wondering I went for menu 3.

 

 

Nail Girls Nail Polish 'Nude Pink' RRP £13.50

 

There's no doubt about it, I love nail polish so this one from Nail Girls was the first thing that caught my attention in this month box. As you can see from the picture it really didn't take me long to get it on my nails. I've never heard of the brand Nail girls before, but I've had this polish on my nails for a few days now and I'm really impressed; The polish applied streak free, is really glossy and has a lovely creamy formula. What I love most about this polish has to be the colour, its a true bubble-gum pink, ever so girly and perfect for spring/summer.

 

 

Raw Skincare Natural Lip Balm 'Rescue Me' RRP £1.98

 

Lip balms are one of those beauty products I'm forever picking up, I think at least every handbag I have has about two or three lip balms floating around in them anyone else do this too? So I've welcomed this natural lip balm from Raw Skincare into my lip balm stash. This one is tasteless and colourless, and has a slight waxy smell to it, which doesn't make it the most exciting lip balm; However it does make my lips feel very soft and the actual lip balm has a really smooth but rich formula which makes it really nice to use.

 

 

Suti Trial Pack 'Cleanse Balm, Purity Balm & Fabulous Foot Balm' RRP £6.50

 

Out of all the beauty products in this months box, this Suti trial pack is probably the one I'm most excited about trying and getting my beauty mitts stuck into. I love trying out new products, especially ones that include words such as 'cleanse' and 'balms'. These little tester pots from Suti came beautifully packaged and I can't wait to see how well they work, especially the 'foot balm'  as I need to start prepping my feet for summer.

 

 

GO Stationary Pocket Notebook Set 'Meadow Bird' RRP £5.00

 

I'm one of these girls who loves stationary, especially ones that have pretty patterns on and are handbag sized. I was a little surprised to see these notebooks included in the Love Me Beauty Box as this is much more of a lifestyle item rather than beauty. However this trio of notebooks will fit into my lifestyle perfectly; I love making notes, especially for blogging so I just know these notebooks will be well loved.

 

 

Tea Pigs 'Super Fruit' RRP £0.65 (per bag)

 

Whilst this fruit tea from Tea Pigs has been packaged lovely and looks really appealing with the pink fruit lady displayed on the front, this is the one item in the Love Me Beauty Box which doesn't appeal to me at all. I have a big thing about drinking hot drinks and being able to drink from a mug weird I know; So there is just no way that I would be able to drink this tea. Luckily for my sister, she spotted these right away, knows that I wont use it and claimed it for herself. I always hear people raving about Tea Pigs, so I'm confident that she will enjoy her fruit tea. This is a great lifestyle product if your a tea lover, but its just not for me sadly.

 

So that's everything in the May edition of the Love Me Beauty Box, overall I'm loving it apart from the tea; I have a feeling that I will pretty much enjoy using everything in my box. The total cost of all goods received comes just under £30.00 so seeing as you only pay £12.95 I think its really great value and as I mentioned before, I love that you get the choices of three menus. If your thinking about starting a Love Me Beauty Box subscription be sure to take a little look at Love Me Beauty website.

 

What do you think of the contents of this beauty box? Have you ordered one? If you did I would love to know what menu you chose?

 

Lots of Love

 

 

 

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle 



 

April Favourites

I can't quite believe that we are in May already, it seams crazy to me at just how fast the year seams to be whizzing by. Although I'm so pleased that we stepping into the summer, which has to be my favourite time of year; I can't wait till it's warm enough to start wearing shorts and pretty little dresses without the need for tights. The weather was noticeably a lot warmer last month and with the warmer weather setting in means there are changes in the makeup choices that I'm starting to make. Last month I discovered a lot of new favourites and I think I've found some new staples in my makeup bag. If you want to know more about the products I've been loving, then be sure to keep reading on.

Ambiance Dry Shampoo*
Being a lover of the Batiste dry shampoo for years, I honestly thought nothing else would compare or knock it off the top spot until I started trying and using this dry shampoo from Ambiance. Now I don't want to go into too much detail as I have a full review going up of this hair wonder very soon, but oh my gosh guys its so amazing. Not only does it clean and refresh my hair in an instant, but it adds so much volume and texture to my hair. I have the one designed for brunette hair obviously and the brown powder means that I get no nasty white marks in my hair. This brush style application makes it a dream to apply and very precise, and is ten times better than any spray dry shampoo that I've tried, I love it!

Make Believe Instant Tan Bronzer*
You guys know that I love fake tan, and there is rarely a week passes that I don't apply the stuff, however I'm yet to find the perfect fake tan that works well when your constantly working out and sweating at the gym too much information I know! But being a regular gym goer means that my skin gets all horrible and sweaty and I've been finding that it's making my fake tan go all patchy, especially the areas where my gym clothing rubs against my skin. To help resolve this problem I've been using an instant tan that washes away on your next trip to the shower as it saves a lot of faff and I don't have to worry about my skin looking all dodgy after a gym session. I've been loving this instant tan from Make Believe as it gives you the most gorgeous golden natural looking tan. This self tanner is so easy to apply and it makes my skin look really healthy, I would recommend it to anyone who's in the same boat as me or looking for a quick fix fuss free tan.

Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick 'Red Pepper'
I don't want to go into too much detail about why I love this lipstick from Bourjois as I was only raving about it in my full review yesterday, but this has been one of my most used lipsticks since I bought it the other week. Not only does it look amazing on and have fabulous staying power, but the shade 'Red Pepper' is so bright and beautiful and really makes my lips pop. This lipstick really does give you the perfect pout.

Bourjois Cream Blush 03 Rose Tender
This cream blush is another Bourjois product that I've been loving this month. If you read my review of this pretty pink pot of cream blush you will know that this is the first cream blush that I have ever tried and I've been converted to the cream blush way of life, which is a big deal for me as I love my powder blushes. Rose Tender is a girly dusty pink shade of blush which makes your cheeks look perfectly flushed and natural at the same time. The cream formula is really easy to apply and blends in like a dream, its amazing.

Revlon Nearly Naked Powder
This powder was picked up on a whim after my 'Rimmel Stay Matte Powder' came to a finish; I was in the mood to try something new and I was drawn to this Nearly Naked one from Revlon. I'm yet to have tried a Revlon product that I dislike and being a fan of the Nearly Naked foundation, I had high hopes for this powder. Let me tell you that it certainly didn't disappoint! This powder does a wonderful job at smoothing out your skin and keeps your makeup in place without changing the makeup underneath the powder. I always find it pretty annoying when you apply a dewy foundation only to put a matte powder on over the top, it kind of takes away that lovely glow you where going for in the first place. However the Nearly Naked powder still keeps your makeup looking how you intended it too and does a great job at preventing your foundation sliding off your face half way though the day. I can definitely see this being my go too foundation this summer, its such a great product.

So that's everything for this months favourites, I would love to know what products you've been loving recently and to know what your top makeup picks are for this summer?

 

Lots of Love

 

 

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle 



Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick - Hot Pepper || Review

As soon as the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipsticks came out I made a point of popping them straight onto the top of my beauty wish list. When it comes to high street makeup, Bourjois are right there at the very top of my list as being one of the best and I'm yet to use one of their products that I don't like. Not only am I a huge fan of Bourjois, but I've tried and tested many of their lip products including the Shine Edition Lipstick and Rouge Edition Lipstick which have become favourites in my lipstick collection. So being the Bourjois lipstick fan that I am I just had to try out these velvet textured lipsticks for myself and see if I would love them as much as everyone else does - And I do!

First of all I love the way that these velvet lipsticks have been packaged, not your usual lipstick in a bullet form, this lipstick looks more like a lip gloss, especially with its doe foot applicator. Don't be fooled though as this is looks and feels just like a lipstick once applied. I love how you can see the product in its clear bottle and how the Bourjois logo has been engraved on the side - it's a really lovely touch that makes this feel like a good quality lipstick.

As for the actual formula of this velvet lipstick, I think its absolutely amazing and I love the way it glides effortlessly across my lips, has a super soft buttery texture to it really makes your lips pop with just how richly pigmented it is in colour. As you can see from the pictures my favourite has to be this pretty red - orange shade named 'Red Pepper' which is the perfect red shade for summer.

I'm a big fan of matte lips and although these velvet lipsticks have a little shine once you first apply them, it only takes a matter of minutes before it dries out and leaves a lovely matte finish which is in no way drying on your lips. One fear that you always get with matte lipsticks is that they may make your lips look dry or patchy after a little while, but Bourjois really have a winning formula here with this lipstick as they actually make your lips look and feel very soft.

Another amazing thing about these lipsticks has to be the staying power, I just love a lip product that is long lasting, and the Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick lasts for hours; Once its dry it stays put and there is no fear of it smudging or smearing across your face.

Overall I love these lipsticks and with eight different shades available I can't wait to add some more to my collection 'Peach Club' is definitely next on my list. I would love to know what your thoughts are on these lipsticks and what shades your loving? Be sure to let me know in the comments below.

Lots of Love

 

 

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle 

 

Nails Inc Polishes At House Of Fraser

Left to Right: Nails Inc Magnetic Polish Spitlafields* || Nails Inc Concrete Polish Stonehenge* || Nails Inc Gel Effect Polish Covent Garden Place*

When it comes to nail polish, I absoltley love the stuff and it can become quite an addiction wanting to try and test new shades; before long you end up having quite the collection. When I think of nail polish brands Nails Inc are definitely up there with the top high end brands and I love the way that their polishes are inspired by fashion and the latest trends. This leading British nail polish brand can be found in quite a few shops on the high street and recently House of Fraser have added some more Nails Inc polishes to their website which I've been lucky enough to showcase to you today. 

Nails Inc Gel Effect Polish Covent Garden Place

Out of all three polishes in this blog post this high shine 'Gel Effect' polish has to be my favourite. Nails Inc have recently launched their gel polishes which contain amazing plumping effect technology which means that your nails are going to look salon worthy by the time you've finished your manicure; Think a streak free application and a polish that will help level out any imperfections on your nail. What I love most about this Nails Inc polish and the thing that draws me to it every time I look at it, is its gorgeous hot bright pink colour, it's striking in the bottle and looks stunning on your nails. Covent Garden Place has to be the ultimate summer pink shade, how stunning will this look on your toes too?. As you can see from the pictures this polish is so glossy and shinny once on which creates the perfect nail. 

Nails Inc Concrete Polish Stonehenge

Textured nails where a big thing for 2013 and if your still loving that trend then the Nails Inc Concrete polishes are going to be perfect for you. This is the first textured polish that I've tried and owned and after some time getting used the ridgy and bumpy texture it leaves on the surface of my nails I've decided that I do in fact love this concrete effect nail polish. Stonehenge is the most striking cobalt blue shade and is sure to get nails making some attention. It's a very similar shade to the Nails Inc 'Baker Street' polish review here which has been a favourite of mine for some time. As you can see from the swatch, this concrete polish dries matte,; Usually I prefer ultra glossy nails, but the matte finish works so well with the bumpy texture. Is it just me or does anyone else like the feel of this texture on your nails?

Nails Inc Magnetc Polish Spitlafields

I always think magnetic polish is nail art made easy, especially for the likes of me who has no patience or precision to draw pretty patterns on my nails. I was pretty excited about trying out this magnetic polish as I went a little crazy on them when magnetic polish first came out; I had forgotten how much I love the effect that it creates on your nails. Spiltlafields is a shade that I wouldn't usually wear, the closest that I get to green is turquoise or teal. However as this magnetic polish creates a really cool fishnet effect it I think the colour works perfectly, think mermaid sort of nails. As well as being magnetic this polish also has a metallic look to it which shines differently at certain angels, this only adds to the effect of your nails. I love this polish and it's been getting a few compliments, although getting the magnetic to not touch your wet nails can be a bit of a challenge when you first start off. 

I would love to know which three of these polishes you prefer and if your a big fan on Nails Inc polishes too? For those of you wanting to brighten up your nails a little bit more this month be sure to check out the House of Fraser website where you can find all these Nails Inc polishes and more in the Nails Inc range.

Lots of Love 

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle 

Bourjois Cream Blush 03 Rose Tender

When it comes to the cream blushers from Bourjois I have to say I'm a little late to the party because I know that everyone was going crazy for these pretty pink pots when they made an appearance in the shops sometime last year. As much as I love blush; it's probably one of my most loved make up items other than lipstick, I've always been a powder girl. Shock SHOCK right now ladies this is the first cream blush that I have ever brought tried and tested. I have no idea what came over me whilst shopping the other day, but I decided that enough was enough and I needed to see if cream blushers where equally good or if not better than the classic powder blushers that I'm so used to and love.

Well this may surprise you even more as I certainly surprised myself, but I love this cream blush so much that its taken top place in my makeup bag and dare I say I think I actually prefer this cream blush over all my powder blushes put together. I can't believe I've been missing out all this time. Now I know I can't speak for every cream blush out there as I've only tried this one, but Bourjois have created the most perfect and beautiful blush ever.

I believe there are four different shades of cream blush to choose from in the Bourjois range and I was drawn to 03 Rose Tender which is a lovely shade of dusty pink. This shade looks so natural once on and gives your cheeks that fresh face look. The cream blush blends into your skin so effortlessly and the cream finish makes it look as though your cheeks naturally flushed pink which I love. 

Rose Tender is just the perfect colour blush for this time of year, and it really does make my cheeks glow and look all rosy and dewy at the same time. As you can see from the swatch, once blended out this blush is really subtle on, but it can be built up easily if your wanting your cheeks to really pop with a bit of colour. As for lasting time, this cream blush from Bourjois stays on for the majority of the day, I just need a little top up around lunch time to keep my cheeks looking flushed. 

I always thought cream blushers would leave my skin feeling a little oily and greasy, which is probably the main reason as to why I've avoided them for so long. However once applied this cream blush dries pretty quickly and leaves more of a stain on your cheeks rather than stay in its cream like formula.

Now that I've been converted over to the cream blush I'm so eager to get my hands on some more, especially the rest of the collection that Bourjois have. I would love to know what your go to cream blushers are and how they compare to this one. Be sure to let me know in the comments below.

Lots of Love

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle 

Northampton Blogger Meet Up #1

Last Sunday was the day of the Northampton Blogger Meet which had to be one of the most anticipated and exciting days of the year, well for me anyway. Nothing beats a good blogger meet up, but the fact that it was held in my little town of Northampton was just a huge bonus. I always knew that there where other bloggers in Northampton including the lovely Louise from Sprinkle of Glitter who we all know and love, but I had no idea just how many amazing bloggers there where right on my very door step. Mia over at Pretty Electric and her sister Amber who blogs at Amber's Beauty Talk organised an incredible local meetup which is a day that will go down in blogger history for sure (well certainly in my little history book).

As you can see from the picture above there was quite a few us Northamptonshire girls and it was so lovely getting to know and talk to everyone. The day started off at Revolutions bar where we were able to have a mingle and get to know one another over a cocktail or two. I can't think of a better way to relax and calm everyone's nerves than over an alcoholic beverage. Fear not though ladies it was 12 O'Clock which made it perfectly acceptable and okay to be drinking at this time. However I am the complete exception to this as I forgot my ID and despite telling the bar lady that I was 26 she would only let me order a non alcoholic cocktail - delicious it was nevertheless.

After a good mingle, we had a lovely lady called Becky from Harlequin Cosmetics that took the opportunity to showcase some amazing handmade soaps, shower gels, lip balms and incredible smelling body butters. All of her cosmetics are made in her kitchen at home which I think is incredible (how nice must her home smell?). It was inspiring to see another blogger who had taken it upon herself to start her own business and create lovely beauty bits in her own home. My pictures really don't do her products justice, but if you have the time be sure to take a little look at her website here.

After spending a fair bit of time at Revs, don't worry we didn't go too mad on the cocktails it was time for some food. Pizza Express was on the menu which excited me to no end as I had never actually been to one before. The food really didn't disappoint, it was so delicious and I had such a blast talking and getting to know the girls sat around the table.

With our bellies full and any alcohol soaked up it was time to kill some time and do a little bit of shopping around town. It wasn't long before we were due at our local Lush store, which was possibly the most favourite part of my day. I am a huge Lush fan, so I was beyond excited to go and hang out at the Lush store out of shopping hours. The guys at Lush really looked after us and I had so much fun trying, testing and smelling all the Lush goodies. I won't go into too much detail about what we got up too at Lush as I have another post planned for this, so keep your eyes pealed for that. 

I honestly had the best time at the Northampton Blogger Meet, not only was it amazing to meet some local bloggers but the actual day was so well thought out and planned. Mia and Amber did such a fantastic job and I can't thank them enough for their efforts. Not only did they organise a wonderful day but they also surprised us with the most incredible goody bags; I was actually speechless when I opened mine at home and had a good look though it all WOW is all I can say. 

A big WOW indeed, sorry for all the pictures but I was struggling to get everything into just the one picture. As you can see there is such an incredible selection of goodies which just makes me speechless. How amazingly well did Mia do? She must have worked her little socks off and I can't thank her and Amber enough. As the neat freak in me had to find a home for everything as soon as I got in, I now realise that I've missed out a handful of things that were also included in the goody bag including a sample of the Benefit Bad Gal Mascara which I cannot wait to try! I've already started to work my way though this lot, but if there is anything you would like to see a full review of then please let me know.

I had such a brilliant day and I would love to know what your thoughts are on blogger meet ups and if you've been to any yourself, be sure to let me know in the comments below.

Lots of Love

Find Me

Twitter @sunshinesprkle || Instagram @sunshinesprkle