Thursday, December 29

NOTD #1 Nail of the Day - 'Sweetpea Sparkle'


Hey everyone,

Hope you all enjoyed the festive period with your family and friends. I had the best Xmas yet and will definitely do a Xmas pressie blog if your interested!?? Let me know :) This is just a quick post as I am just about to head out for some post-Christmas shopping with my mum. Bargains!

After seeing many-a-blogger doing polish looks I've decided that I am going to start doing a NOTD 'Nail of the Day' polish blog. I myself am an unashamed polish addict....owning more than I wish to count. So here goes............maybe I will get through all of them :)

To get into the festive spirit before Christmas I painted my nails green and glitter with Australis Nail Colour in 51055 'Sweetpea'.

L-R: Inm Hologram Top-Coat (Silver), Australis in Sweetpea, Inm Hologram Top-Coat (Gold), Inm Out The Door Top-Coat.
 Sweetpea is a fresh, minty cool green. I love the look of it with my skin tone and it really gives me a 'pickup' when I stare down at my nails during the day. For a top coat I chose to spice it up a bit with some Holographic glitter. I am using Inm polish in Northern Lights - Hologram top coat which is silver. I also own the gold hologram glitter topcoat of the same brand which I may use in a later NOTD. For a another quick top coat to shorten drying time I used Inm 'Out The Door' topcoat - it's amazingly quick to dry!
 


For this look I applied x2 coats of Australis polish in Sweetpea, x2 coats of Inm in 'Northen Lights silver Hologram top coat' & x1 coat of Inm 'Out The Door' topcoat.



What do you think of the colour? Do you have a favourite polish that makes you smile? :)

x.k.

Thursday, December 22

Lust Have it Box - December 2011 (Christmas)

Hi everyone,
I was very excited to go and collect a parcel from the Post Office this week :) I wasn't positive that it was my Lust Have It box but because I wasn't expecting anything else.....I had high expectations :)

As you can imagine I was ecstatic when the lady behind the counter handed to me the cute black and white Lust Have It Box to me :) I think I may even have made a noise....something like "Oiiiiiyyyy!" - I embarrass myself in public yet again. I was eager to get home and unpack the goodies from this months box as I had heard from the Lust Have It Facebook page that this month was "extra special" and there was much excitement over what was in the box!


Here's the link to the Lust Have It Website: Lust Have It
and Lust Have It Facebook page: Lust Have It Facebook page

So here goes, I will just do a quick breakdown of what's in this December's Lust Have It (Christmas Box). Some products I have already tested or tried, so I can comment to you on how I found the products.

Here is a picture of the box and it's contents once I had opened it!

Lust Have It - December box!

As you can see from the picture above - the usual blue shredded tissue paper has been replaced with colourful festive tinsel and a tasty candy cane to munch on! I thought this was absolutely delightful and I felt a little Christmas cheer as I discovered what was in this months box :)

Glasshouse Fragrances - Marseille Fragrant Body Bar 
“Marseille is a contrasting blend of Gardenia, Sandalwood, Cardamom and Casaba Melon aromas with a coastal village vibe. This richly triple-scented soap replenishes and rejuvenates the skin giving it a natural glow and a lovely feeling of softness. Best of all, it contains Almond Oil and Vitamin E to protect and recondition the skin.”


As soon as I opened my Lust Have it box this month I immediately smelt the beautifully floral yet fresh scent of the Marseille Body Bar. The feel of the thick paper packaging also creates an expensive feeling to the product. I would definitely purchase this product is I saw it on the shelf of a retail shop. I regularly buy too many soaps than I should from LUSH (I even bought some today!) but I really appreciated that this was a FULL-SIZE product and also one that I haven't previously tried on my own accord.

evo - The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask
“In creating evo, great minds from the hair industry and some awfully nice scientists have combined a blend of the most innovative and effective ingredients, dry humour, blatant honesty and minimal packaging. The great hydrator moisture mask is an intense hydrating treatment to moisturise and smooth colour damaged, dry, coarse, frizzy hair. To use, work through wet hair, leave on for 3-5 minutes and rinse. The result; moisturised smooth, frizz free hair.”

I’m really excited to be trying out this 50ml sample. It is scented with a light vanilla fragrance and the consistency appears as a milky white cream. The mask is free of suphates, parabens, dea, tea and propylene glycol. I have previously used some body washes and moisturisers in the evo brand and I am excited to see if the hair mask works for me. I don't currently own a rinse-out mask and was actually looking to purchase something to strengthen my coloured treated hair. Win win!

Kosmea - Purifying Cream Cleanser
“A gentle, skin-nourishing cream cleanser, developed to replace skin with the oils that it also takes away. This cleanser removes make-up, including water-proof eye make-up and daily grime as it nourishes the skin with oils of sesame, avocado and certified organic rose hip oil. The natural astringent, witch hazel extract, purified and tones the skin helping to rebalance moisture. Perfect for all skin types, but especially if your skin is dry and sensitive.”

20ml of product is a good amount to really test how well this works with my skin. I've used it for about 1 week now and it seems to have calmed my skin as it has been irritated lately. It works as an all-in-one cleanser, even taking off eye makeup. I love this aspects as it saves time and is also convenient for travel (not having to take as many products with you). The company states the product aims to cleanse without stripping the skin of it's essential oils. I look forward to continue using this product and will look at the other products they offer when I am shopping next :)

Regular Tampons - Moxie

“Moxie Regular Tampons are designed for medium flow and come in two unique and discreet recyclable purse-worthy tins”

When I saw this I wasn't disappointed but it left me a little curious. I wouldn't say that this is a high-end sample, but as I have used and liked this brand before I am happy with its inclusion. I think this box of 8 regular tampons is actually a bonus item. The packaging is lovely and is very convenient to keep in a handbag for when needed. 

Waterproof Eye Pencil - LimeLily Cosmetics

“Highly pigmented and smooth to apply. Create perfectly defined eyes or smokey sultry eyes by blending the pencil line with a tapered brush.
 
This is a full sized eyeliner product in the colour Jet (standard matte black). For me this is a staple daily makeup tool as I rarely leave the house without eyeliner. make-up staple. Unfortunately, I find it is not pigmented enough for me although it does apply smoothly. I use MAC's pencil eyeliner in 'Smolder' and I adore that pencil as it glides on with ease. So maybe I have been spoilt with this product, I'm not sure. Although I like the fact that the product card provides extra instructions on how to use this product in conjunction with fake lashes included in this months box.

Lash Set and Glue - Lash Republic

“The Signature Collection by Lash Republic by Milan & Co consists of 100% human hair false eyelashes. Each eyelash is specifically designed to enhance, volumise and lengthen varying eye shapes.”

My set of Baby Doll lashes is described as “ the natural day-lash”. I found this product suits me great as I often wear fake lashes. I am a natural blonde and therefore have quite fair and thin eyelashes - so they give me the extra ooomph I desire :) I have already worn these lashes on two occasions and find them quite natural looking. Sadly, the glue included with the lash set was 80% dried up and did not adhere the lashes to my lid at all. Apart from that I am enjoying this product and would be happy to repurchase or sample more Lash Republic products in the Lust Have It boxes.


Delicious little Christmas treat from Lust Have It :P Yum!
 
Overall, this is the best Lust Have It box I’ve gotten so far (I have received 2 thus far). I especially loved that the packaging was tweaked to reflect the festive holiday season. Plus, the mini candy cane was a nice surprise. As for the products I found the samples were of a generous size, embodying Lust Have It's concept of “deluxe-sized samples” and it presented numerous brands that I haven't been exposed to before. The key reason why I subscribed to Lust Have It was to try new products without outlaying lots of $ into products I wasn't sure I would enjoy. 

Overall I have enjoyed my Lust Have It experience thus far and I realise there will be some fluctuations from month to month. If they can provide an overall quality of the contents and deliver on their promise to cut through the clutter of professional and luxury brands, I will be a very happy subscriber!

So CONGRATS to the team at Lust Have It. Even though we will not be getting a box in January I am very much looking forward to seeing what next year's February box will have in store for us :)

So, what are your thoughts on December’s Lust Have It box?

Have a MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!!!! Travel safe and enjoy the gift giving festive season!

- x.k.




Friday, December 16

Fragrance Friday! Stella McCartney Limited Edition 'Print Collection'

How stunningly beautiful are these bottles by British fashion designer Stella McCartney? Stella McCartney's Print Collection will be available in 30 ml Eau de Parfum. 

Notes: Rose, Peony Flower, Mandarin, Rose Absolute, Amber.
Style: Sensual. Intense. Feminine.

Seductive, elegant, feminine - and perfect for the fashion addict in all of us! The fragrance is based upon contrasts between the freshness and softness of rose and the dark sensuality of amber. Stella is definitely a sophisticated scent focused on an intense sense of femininity. Each bottle is lovingly adorned with bright flowers and will surely warm any wearer's heart. Dab on a little or a lot for a feminine boost to your day!






My love obsession with Stella McCartney's 'Stella' began in 2007 when I won a bottle of the perfume through a competition in Madison magazine and ever since it has been a go-to fragrance of mine. A definite favourite holding a soft, fragrant spot in my heart :)
Original Stella McCartney 'Stella' Eau de Parfum

Therefore, imagine my joy when 'The Print Edition' trio was announced! Valued at $82AUD each, the light amber rose eau de parfum is wrapped in limited-edition packaging. The intricately printed bottles are lifted from Stella McCartney's Spring 2011 Fashion Collection, which features tulips, poppies and peonies on dresses and jackets.

Stella McCartney's fashion inspiration for 'The Print Collection' from her Spring 2011 collection.

Though it may seem fashion trends come and go, the arty appeal of this bottle of perfume is timeless and intimately decadent & feminine in nature. What do you think of the floral design? Have you got an outright favourite or like me, are wanting ALL three for my collection?



Stella McCartney Print Edition Trio will be available In Australia from October 16th 2011.

x.k.

Saturday, December 10

Lust Have It!

Hi everyone,

Just had to write a quick note. Received an email to let me know that my December 'Lust Have It' box has been dispatched and is making it's way to my house!!!!! I can't wait to have a look at this months box.....I'm hoping it includes some Christmassy cheer :) I will make sure to do a blog post with the contents of the December box next week. Until then........

- x.k.

Friday, December 9

List 20 Things to do when you're feeling sad

When I'm in a melancholy mood, rather than feel bad for feeling bad these are some ways that I distract myself from my mood. Here's a few of them: 


  • Put some happy music on LOUD and dance dance dance around the room
  • Eat chocolate - a little or a lot!
  • Write a list of things to be grateful for in your life
  • Do something creative. Paint, write, knit... whatever takes you're fancy
  • Go for a walk around the block and "breathe in some nature"
  • Do something nice for someone else (You'd be surprised how this can improve your own mood)
  • Call my mum for a chat. Always helps me put things into perspective.
  • Watch a cheesy movie. You know one of those movies you find yourself watching EVERY single year.
  • Make yourself a pot of tea and drink from your favourite teacup and saucer. Classy!
  • Run a bubble bath and/ or put on a face mask
  • Meditate for 5 minutes. Listen to your heartbeat and remind yourself how special life is :)
What do you do when you're feeling blue?

Thursday, November 17

Thursday Woe

This is how I'm feeling today.......


After having some herbal cold and flu tablets late last night accompanied by a mug of Chamomile I was starting to feel better. Although, when I woke up this morning I felt like I had been hit by a tonne of bricks- still fighting it though. "I can't get sick.....I can't get sick....." I have too much to do at the moment.


Really feeling like one of these today.......


Wish me luck! If you have any handy tips for cures drop them in the comment box below. I would love to hear what you think :) What makes you feel better when you are feeling down?

x.k.

Wednesday, November 16

Someone's Old Is Another's New!

Hi everyone,

Okay, so in addition to my previous post of Vintage Fair Finds I thought I would just quickly post some pics of other Op-Shop finds I have collected in the past 2 weeks. 


Today, whilst on my drive to my university campus my car magically found its way to a Salvos store.....after a quick look around as I had to get to class I found these little gems!

 I love the pastel palette of the patterns on these glasses. This happy little trio most likely has lost one of its members.....but I hope they still have lots of love to give :) At only $1.99 for the set it was a real bargain!
 
 Here is a beautifully made floor rug that I picked up for only $12. I love that it has a worn pre-loved look to it. Also, there is a hint of turquoise in the pattern which I think sets it out above the rest. At the moment I have placed it at the end of my bed under an ottoman. 

Okay, well I'm off to boil the kettle to make a cuppa tea. I've had a monster of a headache today and just can't seem to shake it. Fingers crossed I'm not coming down with anything!

Do you have any home remedies or secrets to rid the horrid headache? Let me know.

- x.k.

Vintage Finds

Hi everyone,

Recently, all I've been thinking about is vintage finds that are available at op-shops, vintage stores and vintage fairs. I've also discovered one of my good friends Matt has a penchant for vintage and the pre-loved too! I'm so happy to have another vintage-lover to talk to about where are the best finds, pooling our resources and inspiring each other with what we discover. Fun times!
I'm thinking this increased love and interest in vintage and shopping for such items may also be linked with me trying to avoid the pile of university work I still have to complete before I finish up for the year. Although I only have 2 weeks left of study I always seem to procrastinate *sigh* I'm trying to work on this.....see how we go.

Anyways, I attended a local Vintage Fair that is held just down the road from my house AND.....it's on EVERY 2 WEEKS! I have a feeling I'm going to spend too much money ullll.... I went with some of my friends who range from not much interest in vintage, to, of course the vintage lover's :) We found that even if we didn't all purchase items we had a "good look around" and it was a really interesting way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon. Here are some of the goodies that I collected at the North Adelaide Vintage Fair:

 This super cute vintage nail care set was just too adorable to leave. It cost $12 which I think was an amazing bargain as it contains all original pieces and is stamped 'made in Sheffield ENGLAND' - love it. I just think it's sweet and will be very handy to put in my handbag for emergency nail situations :)
The trinket box cost $5 and I think this will be a perfect little gift for my mum at Xmas!

 Here are some lovely reinvented vintage Christmas Cards that I got at the North Adelaide Vintage Fair. They only cost $1 each - I could have gone crazy and bought lots....but I chose to show some restraint. Although, I'm going to have another gander at the cards next weekend. I think they are going to be perfect to send to family for Christmas in a few weeks. Get excited people....Xmas is only 5 weeks away! Ho Ho Ho!
I especially love the card on the bottom right. I'm going to give this to my little niece - its says "For a dear little girl at Christmas".

Hope everyone's Christmas shopping list is being ticked off and preparations are in progress for this festive season. I haven't put up my Xmas tree yet.....so I better get cracking! How soon do you put up your tree for Christmas?

x.k.


Wednesday, November 9

Wonderful Wednesday.....

Mr Bradley Pitt in a dress. Need I say more? Enjoy....

What is your favourite Brad Pitt movie? I love 'Interview with a Vampire' - so classic!

 x.k.

Tuesday, November 8

Plus-size Pretty: Christina Hendricks



Have you ever wished you lived in another era? No. Must be just me then. Well for me it was the 1950-60’s. Roller-sets, winged eyeliner, wiggle skirts and kitten heels.....what more could a girl asked for?

If I could have swanned around the office looking as foxy as today's plus-size pretty, then I would’ve been a happy lady. Meet Christina Hendricks, aka Joan Holloway from one of my favourites shows on tv, Mad Men.

Since tuning into Mad Men years ago I have had a serious girl crush on 36-year-old Christina. Who wouldn't? She is stunning. In Mad Men Joan turns heads in her curve-hugging, jewel-toned frocks.

As at a voluptuous sizing of 12-14, she's hardly 'plus size' in real terms, but in LaLa-land the fact that Christina is seen as a sex kitten is nothing short of miraculous. So cheers to the curvaceous and vivacious Christina Hendricks!

Now this is a woman with curves. Could she honestly be any hotter?! Thoughts? Wowsa!
x.k.

Sunday, November 6

Oh Sunday Sunday

Welcome fellow felines and here we go! I have finally managed to get my head around the beginnings of my first Blog. It's been very much a case of trial and failure error and I am now getting excited about the beginning of a new passion as a blogger.....
I guess I have created this blog in order to get to know myself better, share thoughts, ideas, and also connect with others around the world.

 
Drawing on some famous words of Marilyn I hope this blog to be a place where honesty is key and positive thoughts will follow. I find it only fitting that I write my FIRST official blog post from the heart of all places - my place of birth and rural hometown! I'm currently here for a few days to visit my parents and I am tomorrow heading back to "the big smoke" - city life. I miss the country lifestyle already :(

Oh how I LOVE my Sunday's! My ideal Sunday is to be enjoyed with a cup of tea, some chilled music softly playing in the background. What's your ideal Sunday look like?
Isn't life grand!

 
- X. K.

Friday, November 4

Hello World!

Blog coming soon................

A welcoming place where we can share our lives, laughs and of course loves of all things pretty. Bonjour!

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