tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15405520917395271202024-03-16T18:53:09.233+00:00Beauty Blogging Blondea humid, pre-possessing homosapien with a full-sized aortic pumpAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.comBlogger393125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-48307340043648032972013-02-03T17:35:00.000+00:002013-02-03T17:35:11.725+00:00YSL Cream Blush in Passion Red<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been saving my Boots Advantage Points <i>hard </i>recently and today I found myself in there with £51.11 to spend! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8440891617/" title="DSC_0131 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0131" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8351/8440891617_d93c408eec_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have been on the hunt for a new cream blush after my <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/clarins-instant-light-blush-vitamin.html" target="_blank">Clarins Instant Light Blush in Vitamin Pink</a> expired (my favourite product of 2012 - wish they would bring it back!) and nothing has really taken my fancy. There's a few on the market just now, but I don't like the gloopiness of the Stila ones and I really dislike the powderyness of the Bourjois ones.</div>
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I adored the range of colours available from YSL and for once, the counter assistant left me alone to have a go at trying all the shades. Some of the shades are really, really bright in the pot (like ultra neon) and you really need to test these out; if not on your cheek, definitely on your hand.</div>
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The texture of the blush is a springy and gel-like. If you think the tester pots seem a little dry, don't worry, your own actual pot is much 'wetter'. The colours are SCARY in the pot, but as you can see from the pics below, they blend out lightly and softly, with no worries about visible dots where you've applied it.</div>
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I'm really impressed with the texture and the shade range. This shade is <a href="http://www.yslbeauty.co.uk/make-up/complexion/blush-bronzer/cream-blush.aspx" target="_blank">No 6 'Passion Red'</a> from the permanent line. I really wanted <a href="http://www.yslbeauty.co.uk/make-up/colour-collections/spring-look-2013/cream-blush.aspx" target="_blank">No 7 'Rose Quartz'</a> from the Spring Look collection, but it was out of stock. I think though, these are so good, I will nip to John Lewis & pick up the other one too and stash it away. They are £29 which is obviously fairly pricey, but hey. It's YSL. If it was a £5, everyone would have one!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8441958574/" title="DSC_0143 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0143" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8053/8441958574_5660fe773b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8440846961/" title="DSC_0146 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0146" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8440846961_80df45c40c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8440824897/" title="IMG_0084 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0084" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8440824897_abc888d6b3_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8440893055/" title="IMG_0080 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0080" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8043/8440893055_7ffeb6f24b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com64tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-71257352098627260142013-01-22T20:42:00.000+00:002013-01-22T20:42:20.242+00:00Bobbi Brown Extra Balm Rinse<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes the best products are those that sneak their way into our lives, without us really placing too many expectations on them and this is certainly one such product!</div>
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When I bought the <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/bobbi-brown-universal-foundation-and.html" target="_blank">Bobbi Brown foundation palette</a>, the website offered me a selection of special offers to choose from, including a sample of the <a href="http://www.bobbibrown.co.uk/product/2567/7788/Skincare/EXTRA/View-all-EXTRA/EXTRA-Balm-Rinse/index.tmpl" target="_blank">Extra Balm Rinse</a>. The picture showed the full size, which is 200mls (£42) and stated the sample would be 30mls. I honestly thought I would get a few sample sachets; I did not expect to get a miniature version of the actual packaging! This 30ml pot is about the same size as a regular moisturiser pot.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8405531925/" title="DSC_0128 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0128" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8076/8405531925_75c13dfcd3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It took me about 2 weeks of it sitting in my bathroom cabinet before I even bothered to try it out. It's for super-dry skin and since my skin is generally normal, I wasn't that fussed about it. However, all you need to do is unscrew the lid, stick yer nose in and breathe in deeply and you'll be hooked! It's GORGEOUS! It smells <i>exactly </i>like Lemon Curd, which is perhaps not to everyone's taste, but I think lemon is the perfect all-year round smell (it's as festive as it is summer fresh). I actually (and unbelievably) had whooping cough over Christmas and the citrusy smell was the perfect tonic to my sore face, chest, nose etc).</div>
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The texture is like a very soft balm. It sits as a solid in the jar, but is very gooey and soft once it's in your hands. The 'instructions' are to soften a small amount in your hands for a few seconds and apply all over to dry skin. I suppose, in a way, it works in a similar way to 'melty face oils' - you know, the ones that turn to emulsion when water is added? It does that - it takes a little bit of warmth and work to move it across dry skin, but once it starts to warm up it spreads easily. My preference is to then sweep it off my face with a hot flannel, especially as the heat then reinvigorates the smell all over again!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8405518939/" title="DSC_0133 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0133" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8405518939_bef495c35b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In terms of it's performance, I've found it brilliant at melting off my makeup and it's been perfectly fine to use around my eyes, even removing my mascara (I don't know how well it would fare removing waterproof mascara). If I have heavy makeup on, I will do it twice, to ensure it's all removed but I think this is just a mini-ocd.</div>
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Because it's aimed at those with super-dry skin, I find my skin feels very comfortable after use and I don't feel like I immediately need to rush to the cabinet to get my moisturiser. At the same time, my skin doesn't feel 'cloggy' like some dry skin products can, it still feels nicely refreshed and soft.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8406601346/" title="DSC_0139 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0139" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8193/8406601346_e7b309c125_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Overall, this product has been a massive winner for me and testament to that, I have since received a full-size jar as a birthday present. However, I wont be needing to crack that open for another few weeks. I've used this 30ml pot twice a day, almost every day for about 6 weeks and it's still going! Excellent value for money!</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-29825884502110377092013-01-20T10:45:00.003+00:002013-01-20T10:47:57.953+00:00Iceland 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Last year, husband & I decided to accompany husband's friend Steve to Iceland in November to attend the annual music festival '<a href="http://icelandairwaves.is/" target="_blank">Iceland Airwaves</a>'. When it was first mentioned to me, I immediately had images of a frozen Glastonbury in my head and thought 'eh there is no way I am doing that!' but actually the festival is held indoors across several locations in the city of Reykjavik.</div>
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I'm not a particularly big live music fan (although I used to be when I was younger, even having actually attended Glastonbury at the tender age of 16 which I'm sure almost gave both my parents coronaries), but husband is, so I figured it would be a good chance to see Iceland, thinking it would be a bit of a 'one-off' trip. But the festival was actually amazing!! We arrived on the Thursday and picked up our wrist bands, which had to be worn all weekend to gain access to the gigs. Within a couple of hours, I'd knocked back a few ciders and we were bopping away to some (slightly unusual) trance-y folk-y bands.</div>
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Of Monsters & Men; one of the highlights of the weekend</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8398014344/" title="IMG_0943 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0943" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8398014344_e1e1f3d4a2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There were approximately 250 acts across the whole weekend and we saw some really awesome bands, including Of Monsters and Men, who were incredible. Steve also managed to cross off a bucket list item which was going to see <a href="http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sigur Ros</a>. The whole festival was brilliant; the atmosphere at every gig was amazing; there was no fighting, people were friendly, queued for toilets politely, even the cloakrooms were unattended - you just hung your bag & jacket up and it would still be there, untouched, 6 hours later. Truly brilliant!</div>
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Unfortunately, the weekend we were there, 'Sandy The Super Storm' had finally carried across the ocean and was settling on Iceland's shores, causing extreme winds (I actually got blown into the road, in front of a car!) and the wind chill was down to -10. The weather in Iceland is usually around the same as it is in the north of Scotland, so this was a bit chillier than we'd expected, but we battled on in our thermals! However, due to the extreme weather, many of the activity trips that are very popular had to be cancelled for safety reasons, which meant there was no ice treks or snow-jettting. </div>
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One of the trips we did manage to squeeze in on the Saturday morning was the 'Blue Lagoon Chill'. <a href="http://www.bluelagoon.com/" target="_blank">The Blue Lagoon</a> is geo-thermal spa, set out in the volcano fields just outside of Reykjavik and each year, during the Airwaves festival, they have their own gig; a DJ playing chilled out dance, while everyone in their bikinis and ear-muffs chills out and dances in the waters!</div>
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It was a pretty chilly dash from the doors into the water, but once you're in, the lovely warm (and sometimes very hot) water kept you toastie! I did have to get out though after about an hour because although my body was roasting, my head was frozen!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8398010650/" title="DSC_0152 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0152" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8398010650_8271029026_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The lagoon itself is enormous and if you don't fancy a dip, you can have a bite to eat in the restaurant, have a spa treatment, or just walk around taking some snaps.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8397987236/" title="DSC_0179 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0179" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8397987236_ca80724153_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8396917065/" title="DSC_0127 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0127" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8396917065_37e357ebfb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everyone I know that had been to Iceland before recommended eating at least 1 hotdog whilst we were there and I didn't let them down. Truly some of the best hotdogs in Europe!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8397997132/" title="IMG_0998 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0998" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8191/8397997132_0aafec4285_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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On our last day, we went on the 'Golden Circle' tour, which is a whole day trekking around the south of the country taking in 3 major sights; <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Þingvellir National Park, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px;">(which is pronounced 'thing-vit-lar, kind of) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px;">the site of Iceland's first parliament, Gullfoss Waterfalls (pictured below) and the Geysir geothermal fields (last picture). This was an incredible day out of the city and a fab way of seeing some of the main attractions. The Geysirs in particular were amazing - every few minutes they would erupt! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 19px;">We were really lucky on this day too as we were the only 3 people booked onto the trip, meaning we had the guide all to ourself (who was amazing) and we were more or less able to pick & choose what we wanted to do. We finished off the day with a trip to <a href="http://www.fontana.is/" target="_blank">Fontana hot spring</a> and dinner at a nearby restaurant. We had hoped to be able to see the Northern Lights that night too, but the weather was just too awful!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8396943903/" title="DSC_0264 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0264" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8396943903_66c3687d51_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8396935415/" title="DSC_0299 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0299" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8055/8396935415_90e835d112_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8397993306/" title="DSC_0310 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0310" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8216/8397993306_25a1b6db25_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't recommend Iceland enough - it has so much to offer and even if you aren't interested in the outdoorsy stuff, the city centre is beautiful, the cafe culture is amazing and there is a *lot* of shopping to be had! </div>
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The people are so incredibly friendly and don't worry about the language, everyone's english is perfect, to the point where you can't tell if they are Icelanders or British! Having said that, because of my colouring, I was constantly mistaken for being Icelandic, which made some conversations a bit awkward when all I could manage was 'thanks' and 'hello'! </div>
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For beauty junkies, you'll be in heaven - Iceland has an incredible range of marine beauty brands and hundreds of spas. Your skin will thank you for a weekend over there!</div>
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If you are interested in the music festival, I'd highly recommend buying your tickets early as they can sell out, depending on headline acts. </div>
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If you have any questions or comments, please just leave me a message below!</div>
<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-36704538421679564192013-01-19T10:00:00.000+00:002013-01-19T10:00:06.182+00:00It's my birthday!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384662318/" title="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n" height="345" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8384662318_6105ac70d1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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(why do I look so shiny! I wasn't even the slightest bit sweaty!!)</div>
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It's my birthday! </div>
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Today I am off to the Aberdeen '<a href="http://yourweddingexhibition.com/" target="_blank">Your Wedding</a>' exhibition as my first official day with Preen. Sarah and I are going to be mini-makeups & demonstrating airbrush foundation, so if you're there, come & say hello! </div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-53545041081877340362013-01-17T10:00:00.000+00:002013-01-17T10:00:09.979+00:00HD Brows<div style="text-align: center;">
*Before this post goes any further, it's important that I disclose that I am now working at Preen Beauty in Aberdeen, as a resident MUA. I have been a client of theirs for years & have done dozens of posts where their treatments have been featured. I have always paid for my treatments and this post is no different...*</div>
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<b><u>HD BROWS</u></b></div>
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As I am naturally very blonde, I basically have no eyebrows. None that can be seen anyway! This pic below shows my brows in their most natural state. It's difficult to see, but they are actually quite full, but because the hair is so blonde, they are invisible.</div>
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Over the years, I have become quite adept at dying & waxing to suit whatever style I fancied that week & have become very experienced at getting the shade not too warm. I remember the very first time I had them done in a salon, they were just dyed brown - they were orange beacons for about 2 weeks!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384536836/" title="IMG_0227 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0227" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8074/8384536836_692f7f1bfe_z.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div>
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Anyway, I had always shrugged off HD Brows as an unnecessary treatment for myself, since I was so confident in maintaining my own. That was until my friend Lisa decided to treat herself to a trip to Preen for her birthday and her treatment of choice was a brow-pamper! After I saw hers, I was filled with brow envy and vowed to try it out myself!</div>
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I had mine done on Friday (so about 5 days, depending when this goes live) and it's the best thing to happen to my brows, ever! I have to admit, I wasn't sure how it could be any different to the dye I use at home, but it seems to have grabbed onto much more of the hair, making them look much fuller. Sarah took the time to blend & dye 2 or 3 times to achieve the right shade for me, so I didn't just end up with 'black' or 'orange'. After the dying session, my brows were shaped with a waxing, then threaded to get all the baby ones, then last, but not least, the stubborn ones were plucked out with tweezers. And this is the result! I have filled in at the very ends to sharpen up the tips, but I love how the hair is still distinguishable, not just a big dark block. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384537248/" title="IMG_0057 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0057" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8190/8384537248_657ec40e42_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This will set you back around £25-£30 with many salons offering a discount for a return trip.</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com156tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-53842732584343190532013-01-15T17:16:00.001+00:002013-01-15T17:16:53.561+00:00Bobbi Brown Universal Foundation and Concealer Palette<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a working Makeup Artist, there are some products in my kit that need to be replenished on a fairly regular basis. Mascara is usually every couple of months but cream products, and in particular, foundation need to be done every 12 months.</div>
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Personally, I don't think anyone's face will fall off if you use a foundation that's over a year old (within reason!) but when it comes to products that I am responsible for putting on other people's skin, I need to be, well, responsible!</div>
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My replenishment is always in January and for the last couple of years, my base kit has predominantly featured Face Atelier (adore) and a mix of specialist matte foundations, MAC Face & Body and Bobbi Brown sticks (excellent for travelling). In 2010, on the Pixiwoo training course, I was able to use the <a href="http://www.bobbibrown.co.uk/product/5141/15910/Makeup/Face/Foundation/BBU-Face-Palette/Online-Exclusive/index.tmpl" target="_blank">Bobbi Brown Universal foundation palette</a> and loved it. I tried to get hold of it for ages, but it was always a limited edition, not available on concession counters and eventually I just kind of forgot about it.</div>
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<b>Bobbi Brown Universal Palette</b></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384217690/" title="DSC_0189 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0189" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8384217690_0bd6f43c4e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I just happened to spot a tweet on <a href="https://twitter.com/AmandaCMcLennan" target="_blank">Twitter</a> in December from a fellow MUA, from which it transpired that these bad boys were (and still are) available as an online exclusive on the BB UK website! Hurrah! I didn't want to wait & see if it was possible to get a pro discount, so it set me back the full cost of £185.</div>
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Obviously this is not a purchase for the average makeup bag, or even the most die-hard makeup junkies - the shade range in it would mean it's a complete waste of money for a person who would be just using it for themselves. But for those who know how awful it is to lug their kit up 13 flights of stairs at a hotel, only to find their liquid foundations have somehow, inexplicably exploded everywhere, this will be an absolute godsend.</div>
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The quality of the actual product contained is undoubtable - I've used BB stick foundations for years, both on clients and myself and I find they are so versatile. BB concealers are also lovely, very creamy with a good amount of coverage. To be honest - if you're considering purchasing this, you'll already be familiar with their products!</div>
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The layout is great and the actual palette itself is secure, feels weighty and good quality. I have a Bobbi Brown MUA lip palette also and the quality of the actual palette is very similar. It seals up very well, so there's little risk of it drying your palette out. It clicks together properly, so you don't need to worry about it popping open.</div>
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There's only 2 irritating things about it:</div>
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<li>the concealers are not specified, so unless you know exactly which is which, you'll have to sit & work our what's foundation and what's a concealer. It doesn't seem to be as simple as assuming the smaller squares are concealers and the long ones are foundation...</li>
<li>there's an empty square on both sides! Why?? I can't find any explanation for this. I wouldn't depot anything else into them, so I don't know why they didn't just give a bit more product of a couple of the ones that are smaller squares. Makes no sense!!</li>
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Other than that though, I have nothing negative to say!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8383141167/" title="DSC_0186 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0186" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8082/8383141167_0b337170a5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384209688/" title="DSC_0192 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0192" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8191/8384209688_4c8952cbae_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8384200014/" title="DSC_0194 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0194" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8384200014_6e86696031_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/8383104257/" title="DSC_0198 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0198" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/8383104257_57415995aa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-19288351801333949032013-01-14T19:59:00.001+00:002013-01-14T19:59:33.305+00:00Back... again!Oh hai!<br />
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On the 30th June 2012 I wrote this <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/return-of-mrs-mac.html">post</a> all about what I'd been up to, plans for blogging etc. But it kind of never happened. I'm not sure exactly why; I was busy at work, I wasn't sure where my blog was going blah blah<br />
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Since my last post I have knee surgery, had my gall bladder out & joined Weight Watchers. These were things I really needed time to do in private, so my little break has been really good for me!<br />
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So after a few months of being switched off (I even went for weeks without logging into twitter!), around the start of December, I started to feel refreshed and ready to get back into it! And what better time to write my first post; today is my blog's 3rd birthday!<br />
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So, starting tonight, there will be new blogs up 2 or 3 times a week, but if I don't do that many, I wont have a breakdown! Trying to find a balance and chill the f out is one of my resolutions this year!<br />
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A xAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-2160004944481046562012-07-01T20:33:00.000+01:002012-07-01T20:33:52.564+01:00The Quest for The Perfect Macaron<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, whilst I have been <strike>hiding from the law</strike> on my blogging sabbatical, I have developed some new interests. One of them includes trying to lose weight whilst avoiding the gym as much as possible (I'm waiting on a knee op and going to the gym when you can't go on any of the machines is frustrating as hell). </div>
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The rest seem to centre around making 'homely' things - baking, knitting etc. I'm loathe to say 'crafting' but that's probably what it is. I should really have a loyalty card for Hobby Craft. My mum prefers the term 'nesting' but she is definitely barking up the wrong tree!</div>
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Every couple of years, my colleagues and I run a 'bake off' competition, during which I usually submit a half-hearted sponge cake. This year however, there are a good few of us who are keen bakers and I can feel the competition heating up. Each competitor must enter 2 categories and one of the ones I'm in is 'Biscuits & Cookies'. In a bid to do something a little different and as a challenge to myself, I have finally undertaken to master the perfect macaron (not to be confused to with coconut macaroons).</div>
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my first successful batch (after about 9 failed attempts)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480488260/" title="IMG_20120629_203037 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_20120629_203037" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8167/7480488260_2f784724e8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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As I had absolutely no idea where to start with this recipe, I started reading blogs a couple of weeks ago and gradually realised what I was letting myself in for. The words 'impossible', 'tempermental' and 'will drive you insane' featured heavily but I was not prepared to let it put me off. How hard can they be?!</div>
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To be honest, after the first 2 or 3 failed batches, I was ready to throw in the towel. But after discovering <a href="http://notsohumblepie.blogspot.co.uk/">Not So Humble Pie</a>, I began with renewed energy. I picked up an oven thermometer, sieved my almonds properly and took the time to bake them properly; slowly but surely the last 3 days have seen my macarons improve a lot.</div>
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At the moment, I am less concerned with flavours & fillings and only concerned with trying to practise my shell making skills. I'm probably developing an unhealthy obsession with them and have had the worst indigestion over the last few day from all the sampling, but I think once I have these mastered, it will be a life-long skill!</div>
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'Resting' Macarons</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480548860/" title="DSC_0023 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0023" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/7480548860_39a9cd6da1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480496912/" title="DSC_0024 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0024" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8164/7480496912_b35d62a883.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Macaron cross-section</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480539152/" title="DSC_0029 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0029" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7134/7480539152_31be44a002.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480529884/" title="DSC_0036 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0036" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7120/7480529884_7c7ab823c9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480519894/" title="DSC_0038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0038" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7257/7480519894_956d816794.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480503480/" title="DSC_0028 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0028" height="283" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7270/7480503480_4054a59b79.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7480510890/" title="DSC_0032 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0032" height="325" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7253/7480510890_a5d029e355.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I would LOVE to hear your experiences making these and if you have any tips or favourite flavours! </div>
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x</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-11942014587199085532012-06-30T22:42:00.000+01:002012-06-30T23:00:05.633+01:00Return of the (Mrs) MacHello... How are you?<br />
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Well, after 3 months, I have finally pulled my shizz together and worked out what I'm doing with the blog. Well done if you're even still a follower!<br />
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After lots of in-my-head-blog thoughts and a very short debate on Twitter, I have decided to take the blog in a more 'general' direction and lose the makeup specialism. That's not to say there won't be makeup posts, but they will be interspersed with others. Mostly cupcake posts I imagine. Baking is about the only other thing I'm good at!<br />
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Anyway, here's some pics of what I've been up to recently and a taster of what's to come... Nice to see you again! x<br />
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Kenwood kMix. This purchase has changed my life. For rizzle.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474825380/" title="389599_10151012069676742_538196741_12618849_1092815024_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="389599_10151012069676742_538196741_12618849_1092815024_n" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7474825380_df5d47d8bb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I grew some garlic in my vegetable patch</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474824958/" title="IMG_2442 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2442" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7106/7474824958_477a41a91c.jpg" width="473" /></a></div>
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I have baked a <i>lot </i>of cupcakes</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474830880/" title="IMG_2504 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2504" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8162/7474830880_f5edb3b0ab.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474829350/" title="IMG_2479 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2479" height="374" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7262/7474829350_a78b1c6a90.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I have purchased a pink <a href="http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/poppy-blush-pink.html">Pashley Poppy</a>. It arrives 25th July and I am beyond excited</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474833044/" title="main_59 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="main_59" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/7474833044_05230f4797.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Finally got a bit of a stamp on our house. It was <i>all </i>cream before. even the floors</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474816120/" title="IMG_2269 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2269" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7254/7474816120_b9ffd3c52b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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am in full wedding season swing</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474820554/" title="IMG_20120506_145411 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_20120506_145411" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7474820554_5877c1e0b6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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At various points, have consumed red, delicious cider</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474817670/" title="IMG_2362 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2362" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8152/7474817670_6732574a2c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Have begun my quest for the perfect french macaron. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7474832564/" title="IMG_20120629_203037 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_20120629_203037" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7474832564_c0dc22f53f.jpg" width="500" /></a>
</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-43323940099949304052012-04-15T20:55:00.001+01:002012-04-15T20:55:11.160+01:00M.I.A<div style="text-align: center;">
so, you <i>may </i>have been wondering where I've been for the last 6 weeks... well, unfortunately I haven't won the lottery or been away in Miami (*sigh*). My lovely old Granda passed away at the start of March and I've been keeping my head down since. </div>
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Although I haven't been online much, I will be back soon. I'm going to take some time to re-evaluate what the blog is about and the direction it's going before I launch back. If you have any favourite type posts then let me know. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/7081137929/" title="432267_10150732100941742_538196741_11910826_1144135122_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="432267_10150732100941742_538196741_11910826_1144135122_n" height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5330/7081137929_c5155e7639_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-61648936023857022662012-03-03T10:00:00.001+00:002012-03-03T10:01:12.812+00:00Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Boy<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944398369/" title="DSC_0018 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6944398369_ce8777505b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0018" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am so, so late to this particular party, that I've practically turned into a pumpkin! The <a href="http://www.chanel.com/en_GB/fragrance-beauty/Makeup-Lipsticks-ROUGE-COCO-SHINE-120455">Chanel Rouge Coco Shine</a> 'Lipshines' hit the shelves about a year ago; I remember seeing this vid from <a href="http://www.amodelrecommends.com/2011/02/07/rouge-coco-shine/">Ruth at A Model Recommends</a> and thinking 'nah, not for me' but for some reason, they always lingered in the back of my mind. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I finally had the opportunity to try some out last week, when I nipped into Boots about 10 mins before they were closing (<i>tip, always go to makeup counters last thing as the SAs are balancing the books, cashing tills & wont bother you!</i>). I thought I would go for something pinkier, but when I tried out 'Boy' I loved the taupe/flesh tones & snapped one up.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6798287972/" title="DSC_0029 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7186/6798287972_09f56d5b7d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0029" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944404311/" title="DSC_0030 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7202/6944404311_6cc5753a19_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0030" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What Chanel say...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:11px;">ROUGE COCO SHINE makes an irresistible desire for lightness flit over your makeup. With its mischievous touch, it glides over lips with all the charm and freshness of a snapshot.<br /><br />As melt-away as a balm, its lip-embracing texture becomes fluid on contact with the lips and provides a stunning gloss effect with natural shine. Deliciously fresh and soft, it delivers an unforgettable sensation of well-being.<br /><br />Lips are enveloped in the incomparable comfort of continuous 8-hour-long hydration thanks to the Hydratender complex, the secret behind the softness of the ROUGE COCO range.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:16px;">These lovely little lipshines are indeed 'melty', blending into the lip like a lovely light lipbalm with a high shine. Like Ruth, I've been wearing mine instead of a lipbalm & my lips have been feeling super soft. Incredibly, I've noticed that they don't slip off after 1/2 hr and do manage a good 2-3hrs wear; given how light they are, I think this is excellent.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944411847/" title="S1890033 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6944411847_b2f2ecea76_z.jpg" width="640" height="403" alt="S1890033" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6798301524/" title="S1890021 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7050/6798301524_5b6cbd6db4_z.jpg" width="640" height="382" alt="S1890021" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944415023/" title="Screen shot 2012-03-01 at 18.15.11 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7043/6944415023_5e42a3b7c0_z.jpg" width="640" height="183" alt="Screen shot 2012-03-01 at 18.15.11" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My lips are often the last thing I think about when I'm doing my makeup & I never wear lipstick unless it's the feature of my look for that night. I usually find them drying & can never be bothered with the lunchtime trip to the ladies to 'freshen' my makeup. I normally rely on lipbalms to polish my lips up, but this is a firm favourite replacement. I love that the colour just evens out the tone of my lips without colouring them too much & shine finishes the look off nicely. The biggest bonus about these is that the glossy finish is not in the least bit sticky, meaning I can wear my hair down AND wear a lip colour without fear of my hair getting gloopy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6801054910/" title="S1890038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6801054910/" title="S1890038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6801054910_f1be3b254c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="S1890038" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6801054910/" title="S1890038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you fancy getting your mitts on one of these lovelies, but don't like the £23 price tag, head on over to Buyapowa where they have a co-buy coming up for <a href="http://www.buyapowa.com/cobuys">Rouge Coco Shine in 'Chance'</a>. Knowing how good the deals are, I'm hoping this will be down to about £15-£16! You can enter your email address so you're notified as soon as it goes live, which I hope is soon!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-81005579278819337522012-03-01T19:19:00.002+00:002012-03-02T20:51:08.920+00:00Clarins Ever Matte Foundation & Powder<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6798274058/" title="DSC_0092 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7047/6798274058_fd53b6c3e3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0092" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The '<a href="http://www.clarins.co.uk/Ever%20Matte%20SPF%2015%20OIL-FREE/C050101010,en_GB,pd.html&cgid=610&start=20&dwvar_C050101010_color=110%20Honey">Ever Matte</a>' foundation is a new offering from Clarins and I quite simply love it. I got sent a tube (? bottle? I'm not sure what to call this packaging?) a few weeks ago, around the same time I discovered Chanel Perfection Lumier. I discarded this to the 'test later' drawer in favour of my new discovery from Chanel & didn't really give it a second thought. I eventually pulled it out & gave it a go. I was blown away by how lovely it is and I've used it every day since. I've actually been & purchased 2 other bottles/tubes so I have a nice range of shades. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944389601/" title="DSC_0094 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/6944389601_d9c403c0e5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0094" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's what Clarins say...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(112, 115, 120); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; ">The perfect shine-control, balancing foundation for women looking for matte skin in any circumstance. Its plant-based "Skin Detox" complex regulates production of sebum and tightens pores. The fluid, lightweight texture perfectly melts into the skin, allowing it to breathe without any drying effect. The complexion is enhanced with an imperceptible matte veil which remains flawless from morning to night.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, sans-serif;color:#707378;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As usual, there's guff about tightening pores & other science-bothering info, but for once I agree with most of what's said. It is oil-free, but is not powdery or drying & therefore would be suitable for almost any skin. If your skin is nearing the extreme dry end of the scale, I'd suggest giving it a miss, but anything else - this will give you a lovely, medium-full coverage, that still manages to look like skin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The other amazing 'plus' is the fact it <i>does </i>last from morning to night. In fact, I tweeted the other day... </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; ">had such a good hair & makeup day today. love when that happens. plus Clarins' Ever Matte foundation is the SH*T"</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:HelveticaNeue, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The other product pictured is the <a href="http://www.clarins.co.uk/Ever%20Matte/Ever_Matte,en_GB,sc.html">Mineral Powder Compact</a>, which is delightful. It has a sublime fresh scent; like sweet cucumbers. I suck at describing things. But trust me, these products are seriously worth checking out, even if your skin is normal. Do. It.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944392039/" title="DSC_0099 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7043/6944392039_c64f64c52b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0099" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944395159/" title="DSC_0103 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6944395159_2f97fae586_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="DSC_0103" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Artificial Light Natural Light<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6801054910/" title="S1890038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6801054910_f1be3b254c.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="S1890038" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6944408587/" title="S1890029 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6944408587_372370e64a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="S1890029" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The foundation is available at counters for £24 and the powder is available for £25</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-46296199020194931262012-02-24T19:07:00.002+00:002012-02-24T19:37:49.325+00:00Kate Spade Kindle Cover<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*rant warning*</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*If you're not a Kindle owner, this will be boring as fuc..*</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/AmandaCMcLennan">Twitter</a>, you will have undoubtedly seen me complaining long & hard about the serious lack of good Kindle covers. I'm not talking about quality - I <i>know </i>I could've had a pink one from Tesco or a sturdy one from Amazon <i>blah blah blah... </i>I'm talking about CHOICE!! From Amazon to Tesco to Curry's Digital - there's about 4 different options, in the same insipid colours and they are BORING!!!! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, if I had an iPad, I could have had 5111 choices from <a href="http://www.zazzle.co.uk/funky+ipad+cases">Zazzle</a>, or this <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/183293">Valentino</a> case, this <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/177341?cm_sp=we_recommend-_-177341-_-slot2">Jimmy Choo</a> case or an animal friendly case from <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/180400">Stella McCartney</a> (<i>I could go on and on...</i>) but I DON'T have an iPad! I bought my Kindle just before I went to the states & decided to lay-off buying a case until I got there, expecting to find a plethora of choices. But I didn't. It was mighty disappointing!! I started searching on Amazon and I quickly stumbled across a fab selection from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_7?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=kate+spade+kindle+cover&sprefix=kate+sp%2Cdigital-text%2C273">Kate Spade</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=dvf&rh=n%3A133140011%2Ck%3Advf&ajr=0">DVF</a>, but actual FFS. They only ship to the sodding US. grrrrrrr</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was ready to give up my search and settle for this coral offering from <a href="http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.213-3355.aspx">Belkin</a> (<i>my mum has this one & it's fine, but the flip catch thing would have driven me CRAZY!</i>), when an angel from Houston stepped in (<i>she's actually my Husband's friend from Uni</i>) and was happy to order one for me & it arrived today!! HURRAH!! So, I went for the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/kate-spade-new-york-Pebbled/dp/B005WDVN1K/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1330111616&sr=1-2">Pebbled Leather in Pink</a> (<i>note - my pics are about gazillion times more colour accurate than Amazon's</i>). It's buttery soft and I adore the colour. Even though it's a completely different colour to the one I was expecting, I'm really pleased it's a more vibrant fuschia than the pastel pink shown. I was slightly worried that in the pics on Amazon, the elastic sections looked a bit 'loose' but I am really impressed with how strong & tight the corners are gripping my Kindle in place. I shook it about a bit & my Kindle didn't quiver one bit. Overall, the quality is awesome & I'm glad I stuck to my guns and ordered one. Now, all you Kindle geeks, feast your eyes below...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6926385457/" title="IMG_2118 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7065/6926385457_65cde45859.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2118" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6780268146/" title="IMG_2119 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6780268146_c35335b4b3.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2119" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6780271684/" title="IMG_2126 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/6780271684_9cff2b89f4.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2126" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6780269142/" title="IMG_2121 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6780269142_625d956916.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2121" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6926387985/" title="IMG_2123 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6926387985_4ab4d61ea1.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2123" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6780269686/" title="IMG_2122 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6780269686_2f8135085d.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2122" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6926388935/" title="IMG_2125 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6926388935_b6cd672937.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2125" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-63269945244080547412012-02-21T13:49:00.003+00:002012-02-21T13:57:03.653+00:00Clarins Instant Light Blush 'Vitamin Pink'<div style="text-align: justify;">A few weeks ago, I blogged about the latest Clarins SS12 collection - Spring Breeze. Immediately, I knew the cream blushes were the stand-out & I've worn 'Vitamin Pink' every day since. A few pics below showing it on my face!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791496753/" title="IMG_2042 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6791496753_270ff22db5_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2042" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791498239/" title="IMG_2043 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6791498239_390481441e_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2043" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791501075/" title="IMG_2045 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6791501075_164e10c4e6_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2045" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6916074945/" title="S1880015 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7065/6916074945_32bcc8f842_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="S1880015" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6916089595/" title="S1880018 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6916089595_028db3a245_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="S1880018" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6916117969/" title="S1880017 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6916117969_872d007a15_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="S1880017" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-74400961451771441632012-02-21T12:01:00.003+00:002012-02-21T12:06:51.722+00:00Birthday Giveaway Announcement<div style="text-align: center;">Well, it's been a while eh? Apologies for my absence over the last couple of weeks but my Grandad was very poorly & a few other bits have been occupying my time. Back on track now & where to better to begin than by announcing the winner of my Birthday Giveaway!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">and the winner is...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ibelongunderthesun.blogspot.com/">Chieri</a> !</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Congrats Chieri, please email me & I'll get your prize posted out asap!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Obligatory screen grab of Random.Org</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6915705415/" title="Screen shot 2012-02-21 at 11.59.32 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6915705415/" title="Screen shot 2012-02-21 at 11.59.32 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6915705415_bacb845792_z.jpg" width="640" height="389" alt="Screen shot 2012-02-21 at 11.59.32" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6915705415/" title="Screen shot 2012-02-21 at 11.59.32 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks to everyone who took part!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A x</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-89468802625717363132012-02-04T15:19:00.002+00:002012-02-04T16:05:15.028+00:00FOTD with Chanel Perfection Lumiere & New Hair!<div style="text-align: justify;">Last year when I heard Chanel's Pro Lumiere was going to be discontinued, I was pretty gutted as I loved it. But then, I also loved about 5 other foundations & I quickly moved on, shoved my Chanel to the back of the drawer & got over it. Hence I was completely unaware when Chanel launched the replacement Perfection Lumiere a couple of weeks ago! After reading Milly's post over at <a href="http://pearlsandpoodles.blogspot.com/2012/02/chanel-perfection-lumiere.html">Pearls & Poodles</a>, I hit up my local counter to see what the fuss was all about. I have a lovely relationship with the girls over there, so obtaining a sample was not a problem (I may be spontaneous, but even I wont drop £36 on a foundation that might be rubbish!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So anyway, I picked up Rose Beige 12, based on the SA's assessment & she was spot on. She did advise me it oxidises & this is totally correct. I am as pale as pale can be & this still manages to look like tipex on first application, but within a few minutes, it has disappeared into the most perfect match for my skin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(sorry the pics are so blurry!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817155261/" title="IMG_2083 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6817155261_f5117264f2.jpg" width="430" height="430" alt="IMG_2083" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The texture is beautiful; it's super light, with a medium coverage. The application is silky smooth - almost like a gel/silicone texture that glides & blends into the skin easily. It sets within a few seconds to a light semi-matte finish. If you have normal skin you will have the choice of not having to use powder. I think if you have slightly oily skin this will still work well with a primer underneath, but if you have dry skin you'll need to moisturise <i>super </i>well or give it a miss.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My skin is normal and fairly even in texture. If you have any skin issues, you might want to obtain a good few days worth of samples before investing your hard earned cash. But if it works for you, this will look beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Chanel Perfection Lumiere</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817155937/" title="IMG_2085 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6817155937_02ed7446f9.jpg" width="476" height="476" alt="IMG_2085" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moving on; I've had my hair cut! If you're a normal person who gets their hair done every 6-8 weeks, then you'll wonder what all the fuss is about, but I get mine cut every 6-8 months, so this is a fairly big deal! My last chop was in September last year at <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.com/2011/09/like-i-just-stepped-out-of-salon.html">Rainbow Rooms International</a> in Glasgow, which I loved but in the space of 4 months, my hair was almost back to full length again. I decided this time to give a local salon a run for it's money & ended up at <a href="http://www.jdhlifestyle.co.uk/">James Dunn House</a>, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. I really wanted a good lot cut off this time & asked for a long shoulder length style, very blunt and no layers. I took a few pics in as inspiration (something you should <i>always </i>do!) but this one of Claire Danes was my favourite.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817327333/" title="Claire-Danes-hairstyle by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6817327333_75738f8306.jpg" width="274" height="400" alt="Claire-Danes-hairstyle" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I absolutely adore the shorter length & I love using my <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.com/2011/10/enrapture-extremity-heated-rollers.html">Enrapture</a> rollers to achieve lovely soft waves. I feel much more pretty than I ever did with the straggles of my stripper hair hanging wispily around my neck! I think when I go back I might ask for it a smidge shorter - I'm feeling brave!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817154943/" title="IMG_2082 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6817154943_678bf1e38b.jpg" width="430" height="430" alt="IMG_2082" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And lastly! Since October, I have been lusting after this <a href="http://wearingittoday.blogspot.com/2011/10/wit-loves.html">Chinti & Parker Cashmere sweater</a> after spotting it on <a href="http://wearingittoday.blogspot.com/">Wearing It Today</a>, but there was no way I could splash out £350 on a jumper. I squealed when I found this navy & stars cardigan in H&M when I was on a 'basics' shop, stocking up on vests etc. Unfortunately, it was sold out completely in both Aberdeen stores & online. I found it in New York! Hurrah! It's obviously not a complete replacement of the sweater, but at £12, it'll do me just fine!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(looking v uncomfortable!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817154643/" title="IMG_2081 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6817154643/" title="IMG_2081 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6817154643_a0884a924a.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_2081" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hope you're having a good weekend!</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-89980424621167399202012-01-30T20:55:00.004+00:002012-01-30T21:58:58.064+00:00Clarins Colour Breeze Spring 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">I love it when brands bring out seasonal collections and this spring, Clarins are bringing it all over my face!! Below are some snaps & swatches of some of the products from the new Colour Breeze collection, available from February 2012. Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">Joli Rouge Lipstick; Baby Pink & Poppy Red Joli Rouge Sheer Lipstick; Pink Coral & Pink Magnolia</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791491635/" title="IMG_2038 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6791491635_7fc19037e1_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2038" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791480177/" title="IMG_2028 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6791480177_19a3298c52_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2028" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791482793/" title="IMG_2030 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6791482793_61254e7ac2_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2030" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">These lipsticks are sheer, gloss but incredibly non-sticky. In addition (& most importantly) they aren't in the slightest drying on the lips. I had never tried Clarins lipsticks before these & I am genuinely blown away. I have been wearing Poppy Red a lot; it looks glossy & sheer, but still with a brilliant pop of even red. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The bullets are fabulously packaged, in heavy high-shine silver casing. Inside the lid is a silicone seal, that will keep the lipsticks hydrated & also ensures the lid wont be flying off in your handbag! These will retail for £16.50 which I think is super reasonable for such a high quality product.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Pink Poppy Red Pink Coral Pink Magnolia</div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791493187/" title="IMG_2039 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6791493187_396d947707_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2039" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gloss Prodige Intense Colour & Shine Lip Gloss</div><div style="text-align: center;">Raspberry (L) and Candy (R)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791494415/" title="IMG_2040 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6791494415_b629b18b90_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2040" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791483985/" title="IMG_2031 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6791483985_154e518f89_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2031" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791484961/" title="IMG_2032 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6791484961_2d7a6e9049_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2032" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791486071/" title="IMG_2033 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6791486071_4f51e67a06_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2033" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">These glosses are indeed intensely shiny! They are packed with shimmery particles that really intensify the depth of colour, without being chunky or gritty. Super pretty & there are 8 shades in total to choose from. The Raspberry feels a little dark for a srping collection, but is a very wearable colour nonetheless. These will retail for £15.50 a pop, but if glosses are your 'thing', you'll love the quality of these.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791495579/" title="IMG_2041 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6791495579_a5c2797ac8_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2041" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Limited Edition Instant Light Blush</div><div style="text-align: center;">Vitamin Pink (L) and Coral Tonic (R)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791496753/" title="IMG_2042 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6791496753_270ff22db5_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2042" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Without a doubt, these are the stand-out products for me. I adore cream blushes & these are off the chart! They have the finest of finest shimmers, with the Vitamin Pink (weird name?!)having a pay-off that NARS Orgasm should have had - not chunky or glittery, just a gorgeous natural glowing sheen. I have worn the pink every day for the last week. These are limited edition, so scoop them up while you can; they will retail for the princely sum of £19 each, but are worth twice that.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791487169/" title="IMG_2034 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6791487169_ebc9c2d384_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2034" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791489463/" title="IMG_2036 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6791489463_22e19e8d72_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2036" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791488425/" title="IMG_2035 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6791488425_f90dd7cd4c_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2035" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These sponge applicators work a treat, but they squelch when you pull them out the bottles!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791490641/" title="IMG_2037 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6791490641_e872610a52_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2037" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Vitamin Pink</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791498239/" title="IMG_2043 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6791498239_390481441e_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2043" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791499657/" title="IMG_2044 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7013/6791499657_0edf1ec9aa_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2044" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Coral Tonic</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791501075/" title="IMG_2045 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791501075/" title="IMG_2045 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6791501075_164e10c4e6_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2045" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791502121/" title="IMG_2046 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6791502121_7d1f66894f_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2046" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is a variety of other products, including a gorgeous Limited Edition Face & Blush palette (£30) and a Limited Edition Eye Quartet Mineral Palette (£30). I haven't focused on these as I haven't yet tried them out, but I will!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791819357/" title="DSC_0080 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791819357/" title="DSC_0080 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6791819357_4006ae8cfd_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="DSC_0080" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791835307/" title="DSC_0087 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6791835307_ff17693f32_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="DSC_0087" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6791819357/" title="DSC_0080 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Is there anything you'll be picking up from this Spring Collection?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A x</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-85687793652680642062012-01-29T16:24:00.003+00:002012-01-29T21:38:54.945+00:00Birthday Giveaway<div style="text-align: justify;">Hello! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">January saw the anniversary of my 30th year on this little planet & also saw my blog turn 2! With my trip to New York taking up all my spare time, I didn't have time to do a birthday giveaway, so here it is! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All the products were picked up in New York and will go to one lucky winner. So, up for grabs is...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6782943501/" title="IMG_2022 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6782943501_efb3fb9ec9_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2022" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 bottle Nails Inc Special Effects 3D Glitter</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Jack Black Lip Balm in Pink Grapefruit</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Mini Diptyque Philosykos Cologne</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Mini Diptyque L'Au De Neroli Cologne</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Philosophy Mini Shampoo in Lime Blossom</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Philosophy Mini Conditioner in Blackberry Musk</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Philosophy Mini Body Lotion in Green Tea</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Sephora Lip Gloss in 'Vintage Pink'</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Sephora Clear Makeup Bag</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6782944941/" title="IMG_2023 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6782944941_1a6e18d002_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2023" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6782946723/" title="IMG_2024 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6782946723/" title="IMG_2024 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6782946723_09dc2c1483_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="IMG_2024" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6782946723/" title="IMG_2024 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';font-size:180%;"><b>Rules </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';font-size:180%;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">To enter you need to be a follower of this blog. I will check.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">You need to leave me a comment <b>on this post</b> telling me what your favourite birthday present ever was. It doesn't need to be a novel, but failure to do this will result in your entry being deemed invalid.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">1 entry per follower. There are no extra entries for tweeting about it etc, but if you feel like sharing, please do!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">Entry will close 11.59pm on Friday 3rd February 2012. Entries posted after this will not be accepted.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">I will pick a winner at random, using the good old method of my husband choosing a number. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">All decisions are mine & are final.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';font-size:100%;">Good Luck!</span></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com80tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-68038977371943095342012-01-25T09:00:00.005+00:002012-01-25T09:00:08.739+00:00What I Did in NYC<div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day One</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We arrived in Manhattan after flying Aberdeen-Heathrow then Heathrow-New York JFK. The flight left Aberdeen at 6.30am & in total was about 10hrs travelling, but we arrived in NY at 1.30pm local time. We flew into JKF as we were staying mid-town. If you're staying the down-town, you might want to consider flying into Newark. Our hotel was the <a href="http://www.affinia.com/New-York-City-Hotel.aspx?name=Affinia-Manhattan&cid=E-20080425-AFFM">Affinia Manhattan</a>, on 31st/7th, right opposite Madison Square Garden. It was gorgeous, clean and the room was a good size.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756523097/" title="IMG_1981 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756523097/" title="IMG_1981 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6756523097_8cf0b7ca76.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1981" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I wasn't sure how bad we'd be feeling when we arrived, so I had booked tickets to the 10pm show at the <a href="http://www.comedycellar.com/">Comedy Cellar</a> down in Greenwich Village. We'd intended on heading down about 8pm for a bite, but by about 6pm we were still feeling stuffed from all the salty plane food, so we had showers, got dressed, hopped in a cab & headed down to the Comedy Cellar about 7.30pm to see if we could swap for the 8pm show, which we could. Was absolutely hilarious and very glad we decided to stick with the plan. I had a mojito which was so strong the room was spinning, so I quickly switched to coffee! The place was packed out. If you're thinking of going, definitely make reservations & get there at least 1/2hr before the show starts as there will be a queue & if you aren't sharp, they give your seats away. You don't pay for the reservations until the end of the night, so if you do miss your booking, you don't lose your money. By 10pm we were tucked up for a well deserved sleep, looking forward to the next day (my birthday dun dun dunnnnn!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had done <i>a lot </i>of research into breakfast as last time we were there it was a nightmare trying to pick somewhere good and you do so much walking that a good feed first thing is essential. On the Thursday we went to the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/tasty-cafe-new-york">Tasty Cafe</a>, on Madison Avenue (about 10 minute walk from the hotel). I had banana pancakes, which were delicious!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the day was my birthday & we had plans for the evening, we decided to take it easy during the day. We started off walking up to <a href="http://www.bryantpark.com/">Bryant Park</a> & <a href="http://www.nypl.org/">The New York Public Library</a> to moon over where Big & Carrie nearly did the deed. When we were there as part of our honeymoon, we had dinner in the <a href="http://www.arkrestaurants.com/bryant_park.html">Bryant Park Grill</a> which is highly recommended!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The New York Public Library</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756524471/" title="IMG_1982 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6756524471_3c3d25ab6c_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1982" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756525845/" title="IMG_1983 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6756525845_b871526026_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1983" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">View from the Library steps</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756526995/" title="IMG_1984 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6756526995_a50d55790a.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1984" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ice Skating in Bryant Park & Bloomingdales. Cupcake from Sprinkles Bakery</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756528183/" title="IMG_1985 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6756528183_5427e96ee9_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1985" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756529341/" title="IMG_1986 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6756529341_36ecb3bdd5_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1986" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756530727/" title="IMG_1987 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6756530727_1edfda761f_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1987" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After the Library, we trekked on down to Lexington to sample the wares from the <a href="http://www.sprinkles.com/">Sprinkles Bakery</a>, which were definitely worth the detour! Then, it was on up to 90th/5th for the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art and the Gugenheim.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The view down Park Ave, MoMA and The Gugenheim</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756531973/" title="IMG_1988 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6756531973_6508344c7d_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1988" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756533125/" title="IMG_1989 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6756533125_39f342ee27_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1989" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756534015/" title="IMG_1990 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6756534015_9444d0a900_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1990" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">By about 2pm, we were ready to start heading back down to the hotel, so we detoured through Central Park, past the Jackie O Reservoir. We picked up a cab at 72nd, which dropped us at Macy's on 58th, where we had a 'pre shopping day' browse, before walking back through Times Square. Neil sat & worked out how far we walked that day & it was just under 7 miles!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At 7.30pm, after a much needed red-hot shower, we were dressed to the nines, ready to hit the town. I had booked a table at <a href="http://www.buddakannyc.com/">Buddakan</a>, which is famed for being featured in the first SATC movie; where Big & Carrie had their wedding reherasal dinner. I was really nervous that they might have fluffed our table or we wouldn't be cool enough to get in, but the experience was brilliant. When we arrived, they asked us to wait in the bar for 5 minutes whilst they got the table ready (it was <i>packed)</i>. Neil ordered a couple of Mojitos which we took to the table & honest to god, it is without a doubt, the best mojito I have ever had. There were dozens of waitresses & hosts so you didn't need to wait on a thing - water was topped up regularly & they were on-hand to explain the menu. We ordered the BoBo plate to start and I could have eaten 15 of the carrot dumplings! Mains were also delicious and I even squeezed in a portion of pumpkin cheesecake for dessert (what can I say, I was all spanxed up!). The cocktail bar was gorgeous & we could have stayed for a few more, but we were both mega tired so headed back to the hotel & crashed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756535301/" title="IMG_1991 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6756535301_8163c54f62.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1991" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756536583/" title="IMG_1992 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6756536583_eb73b85f69_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1992" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756537771/" title="IMG_1993 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6756537771_8006e5d650_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1993" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Three</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the Friday, we'd planned on starting the day right down in SoHo, but after seeing the Meat Packing District on the Thursday night, decided to head down there for breakfast at the <a href="http://www.chelseamarket.com/">Chelsea Market</a>. Buddakan is in Chelsea Market, although the entrance is next door, so had a quick snap whilst we were there. After the market, we just headed east and joined Bleecker Street which runs the whole way through SoHo. A quick stop off at the <a href="http://www.magnoliabakery.com/home.php">Magnolia Bakery</a> for more cupcakes and headed off to Michael Kors to buy my watch and then Kate Spade for my bag. All in all, a good shopping day!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Following the shopping, we walked on up to MAC Pro store in the Flatiron district, which is an absolute haven & I stocked up on some stuff for my kit. Then we headed to the <a href="http://bluesmoke.com/">Blue Smoke </a> for sticky BBQ ribs, which were absolutely delicious and very reasonably priced.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756539049/" title="IMG_1994 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6756539049_80daaf2a1b_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1994" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756540583/" title="IMG_1995 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6756540583_2c314caa45_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1995" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756541831/" title="IMG_1996 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6756541831_baba944780_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1996" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756543317/" title="IMG_1997 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6756543317_450cd6a6fa.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1997" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">That evening, we had Knicks tickets (purchased from <a href="http://www.stubhub.co.uk/">StubHub</a>) at Madison Square Gardens (literally a skip from the hotel). The atmosphere was incredible & there were so many people. I have to say, everything is so well organised & runs seamlessly in America. We sailed through the tickets, security & were directed to our seats in the space of about 5 mins. The highlight of the game had to be after the ref had made a particularly bad decision was a guy behind us shouting '<b>Sir, you're not very good sir</b>' !! How super polite!! There was no swearing, no fighting, no bottle throwing or racist insults songs & was a breath of fresh air. After the game, we headed home to eat our cupcakes!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756548841/" title="IMG_2002 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6756548841_bb4fef8128.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_2002" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756545591/" title="IMG_1999 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6756545591_a7af535c62_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1999" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756547337/" title="IMG_2001 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6756547337_c62acd9637_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2001" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756550651/" title="IMG_2003 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6756550651_6ebbefc644_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2003" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day 4</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Saturday was our last full day & when we woke up, it had been snowing! The way the snow was dealt with puts the UK to shame. All along the streets were guys out with giant squeedgees (sp?) pushing the snow off the pavements and the roads were heavily salted. By the Saturday night, all that remained was some slush around the drains. Unbelievable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyway! Breakfast was had at the Europa Cafe just round from the hotel as we were heading to Macy's next, which is just 3 streets up from the hotel on 34th street. At Macy's, we had to wait 1/2hr to get in as shops don't open anywhere in NY until 10am, which is a bit annoying. The day was going to be spent in the main shopping areas, namely 5th Avenue & Herald Square. We got some good bargains in Bloomingdales using the 10% visitor discount and spent a good couple of hours in cabs going back & forth to <a href="http://www.stevemadden.com/">Steve Madden</a> stores trying to track down various sizes of shoes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Earlier in the week, we had picked up some tickets from a street vendor for the <a href="http://www.comicstriplive.com/">Comic Strip</a>, the setting for Seinfeld. Even though we'd already been to a comedy show, we didn't have plans for the Saturday evening, so decided to cash them in and I'm so glad we did. We got seated right up at the front & the dramatic highlight of the evening was 2 hecklers getting thrown out. They were sat right next to us at the same table; she looked exactly like Tulisa from N-Dubz and he looked like Spencer from The Hills which was weird! I'm fairly certain they were on something and they were being total pains in the ass, so the atmosphere was much more relaxed after they left. My 2 favourites were Chuck Nice & Marina Franklin and the club is definitely worth checking out. We ended up at the 10pm show this time so were exhausted by bedtime about 1am!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756552811/" title="IMG_2004 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6756552811_abc0476962.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_2004" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756554557/" title="IMG_2005 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756554557/" title="IMG_2005 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6756554557_df5b8f3dcf_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2005" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6756556513/" title="IMG_2006 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6756556513_49350385a7_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_2006" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Five</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After packing & checking out of the hotel (where we were able to store our luggage til later) we only had about 4 hours to spend before the flight home. We just dawdled about up 5th Avenue. We went to <a href="http://store.nike.com/gb/en_gb/">Nike Town</a> as they have a brilliant selection of women's gear. I picked up a few bits n bobs, including my leather jacket from GAP. The day ended with a frantic rush to a Duane Read pharmacy for a few things to bring home, including about 5lbs of peanut butter M&Ms! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The trip has been incredible & such a good way to celebrate my birthday. If you're debating about going, I can't recommend it enough! And, if you've already got a trip planned - I'm very jealous!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope this was interesting! I'd also like to know if you're interested in a 'how-to' guide for short stays, so leave me a comment if you are!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Amanda x</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-9770188365767969372012-01-24T15:57:00.005+00:002012-01-24T17:45:38.510+00:00What I Bought in NYC<div style="text-align: justify;">I'm back, jet lagged (*sobs*) and already missing New York so much. We had such an incredible time and I'm already planning our next trip. I will follow this up with a 'What I did' post in the next couple of days for those who are interested & possibly planning their own trip, but in the meantime, for all who love a bit of bag porn, keep reading!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">*I shouldn't have to say this, but this post is not representative of my usual shopping habits. I saved <i style="font-weight: bold; ">hard</i> for this trip and am only doing this post for all you nosey biatches.*</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-437074/pgid-540691"><b>Nike Free Fit Gym Shoes</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have a bit of a knee injury at the moment which means my running has taken a bit of a back seat. In the meantime, I'm doing a lot of weights, circuits & I'm planning to start yoga so have been looking for a pair of flexible gym shoes for a while. I loved the pink which isn't available in the UK & they were about £12 cheaper than buying them here.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755383237/" title="IMG_1951 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6755383237_a8697d0ba6.jpg" width="500" height="386" alt="IMG_1951" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755289691/" title="IMG_1952 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6755289691_a9c887b3fc_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1952" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755291207/" title="IMG_1953 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6755291207_83ab4098ef_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1953" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.diptyqueparis.co.uk/fragrance-collections/personal-fragrance-collections/vetyverio-eau-de-toilette.html"><b>Vetyverio by Diptyque Paris</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This was a little more expensive to buy than it would be here, but in Scotland there isn't anywhere to sniff them, plus the Diptyque boutique down in Greenwhich was so gorgeous! This smells like grown-up, fresh, floralals. Yum!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755327021/" title="IMG_1971 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6755327021_efcc026c97.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1971" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755325107/" title="IMG_1970 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755325107/" title="IMG_1970 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6755325107_65bcf9c074_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1970" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755327021/" title="IMG_1971 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6755327021_efcc026c97_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1971" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.katespade.com/designer-handbags/leather-handbags/kate-spade-portolla-valley-kaley-1/PXRU3026,default,pd.html?dwvar_PXRU3026_color=618&start=30&cgid=handbags-leather">Kate Spade Portola Valley Kaley Leather Clutch</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You may remember a few<a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.com/2012/01/nyc-wish-list.html"> posts </a>ago, I blogged about the <a href="http://www.katespade.com/designer-handbags/leather-handbags/kate-spade-bow-valley-rosa/PXRU3033,default,pd.html?dwvar_PXRU3033_color=001&start=18&cgid=handbags-cross-body">Kate Spade Bow Valley Rosa</a>. Unfortunately it turned out it was an 'online exclusive'. Bah. However, whilst I was down at the store, I spotted this gorgeous purple clutch. I nearly went for black, thinking that it would go with anything, but then my outfits are usually black so figured the purple would add a welcome splash of colour.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755342247/" title="IMG_1976 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6755342247_541787ae49.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1976" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755328787/" title="IMG_1972 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6755328787_c23ff9d44a_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1972" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755331671/" title="IMG_1973 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6755331671_70b22b9859_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1973" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/templates/P6VAll.jhtml?itemId=cat7502&parentId=cat35701&masterId=cat145">Michael Kors Watch</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is my official birthday present, that I bought with the money my friends & family had given me. I decided not to go for the Michele Deco watch as it was just too expensive (it was going to work out at over $800). I love the shape & the mix of the rose gold & silver. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755300915/" title="IMG_1959 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6755300915_85f6ea9652.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1959" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755300915/" title="IMG_1959 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6755300915_85f6ea9652_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1959" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755340139/" title="IMG_1960 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6755340139_a440508dc0_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1960" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod10370019&parentId=cat3003&masterId=cat8501&index=44&cmCat=cat000000cat8501cat3003&isEditorial=false">Michael Kors Satchel</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This was about the only thing on the wish list that I actually bought! I love it so much! It's so soft & I really like the ostrich embossing on the leather.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755308523/" title="IMG_1963 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6755308523_f26ddc6865.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1963" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755302577/" title="IMG_1961 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6755302577_d81988a2d2_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1961" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755312817/" title="IMG_1965 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6755312817_395b8cbbe7_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1965" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755311207/" title="IMG_1964 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6755311207_ec714a7bec_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1964" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/Shop/Designers/Milly/Bags">Milly Bag</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had seen a few bags from Milly on Net-a-Porter, but hadn't really paid that much attention. Then I spotted this little bag in <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/milly-crossbody-mina-ostrich-mini-bag?ID=593785&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results&intnl=true&intnl=true">Bloomingdales</a> (I went for the non-ostrich version) and was blown away by how buttery soft they are. Plus, the range of colours was brilliant - neon pink, lime green, bright blue. The strap is detachable so can easily be used as a small clutch & the inside is just like a purse.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755436405/" title="IMG_1979 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7013/6755436405_b1faf834a2.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1979" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755313993/" title="IMG_1966 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6755313993_7299ed0d3b_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1966" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755319597/" title="IMG_1968 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6755319597_6912e1b00f_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1968" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755322011/" title="IMG_1969 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6755322011_c6be0fd568_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1969" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.stevemadden.com/item.aspx?id=87366&DirectSearch=gunter">Gunter Boots by Steve Madden</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Both my husband & I love Steve Madden; they do brilliant leather shoes & the range for men is fab. These boots will be replacing my very old & much loved cowboy boots and I they are unbelievably comfortable. Now, Steve, if you're reading, can you please get your stores over to the UK (a pop-up shop in London wont cut it). Shipping to the UK is $40 per pair so is pretty much a no-go. The options on Asos are rubbish. Grrr</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755294415/" title="IMG_1955 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6755294415_4a6343ea2b.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="IMG_1955" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755295357/" title="IMG_1956 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6755299783_b81d3b2372_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1958" /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755295357/" title="IMG_1956 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6755295357_8ba304ba62_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1956" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755296561/" title="IMG_1957 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6755296561_49a1542696_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1957" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=729065">Leather Jacket from GAP</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have been looking for a leather jacket FOREVER and I only spotted this about 3hrs before we were due to go to the airport. I was already over budget, but it fitted my requirements perfectly - no fancy zips or fussy details, not too bikerish & lovely & soft. So I got it - it was fate! This is obviously not me in the pic, but I couldn't face doing pics of myself today!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6755342757_f091f46cfa.jpg" width="423" height="423" alt="IMG_1977" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/bottoms">PINK Campus Pants from Victoria's Secret</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Again, this is clearly a model in the pic - it's very similar to how I would stand in my joggers (ahem) but mine are lime green! They are so bright I'm going to have to wear my sunglasses in the house. They are so comfy, loose & inside is towelling. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6755514259_243459d79e.jpg" width="424" height="424" alt="IMG_1980" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Peanut Butter M&M's (*dies*) and the Jack Black Lip Balms</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755336505/" title="IMG_1975 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6755336505_3cc493b1fa_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1975" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6755333487/" title="IMG_1974 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6755333487_5f7840f64f_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="IMG_1974" /></a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, that's it. I bought a few other things, but these were the things that I could get decent photographs of! Makeup wise, I only bought 1 single eyeshadow from MAC. Weird, but Sephora just didn't do anything for me! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><br /></u></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-26580675518413112952012-01-16T17:40:00.002+00:002012-06-30T23:09:37.408+01:00Pink Birthday Manicure<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another trip to <a href="http://www.preenbeauty.co.uk/">Preen Beauty</a> in Aberdeen for my fortnightly manicure and I went for something way out of my comfort zone, but I am loving it!! My NY wardrobe has a bit of a colour blocking theme going on, so figured rather than plump for my standard black gel manicure, I'd rock out some neon digits! For those who also have bio-sculpture gels done, this is shade 89. </div>
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My nails are marginally shorter than normal as I very sadly ripped one of my nails yesterday, but they grow quick.</div>
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I would say the tone in this pic is truest to how they look in person</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6709060093/" title="DSC_0034 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6709060093/" title="DSC_0034 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0034" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6709060093_2616bda4ab_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Gel manicures typically last 2-3 weeks and can really help nails that are in poor condition, provided you care for them properly. They are light years beyond the old acrylic style manicures, which were like cement. The bio-sculpture gel is soft (so your nail isn't brittle/rock hard) but very tough. If removed properly (by soaking & gently pushing the softened gel off the nail), then there will be no damage to your nail underneath. My nails are always in much better condition following a few weeks under gels; less splitting, peeling and generally no breaking (this sad wee one this week was due to a pair of too-tight jeans!). </div>
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A xx</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-16235536644904515462012-01-16T10:00:00.001+00:002012-01-16T10:00:11.095+00:00NYC Wish List<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P12573">Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6699866821_8717d4735d.jpg" width="250" height="250" alt="P12573_hero" /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">My lips have been chronically dry this winter (even my trusted Blistex isn't hitting the mark) so I am super excited to try this out in Sephora. I've heard brilliant things about it from <a href="http://www.vexinthecity.com/2011/12/loving-it-black-jack-lip-intense.html">Vex in The City</a> and <a href="http://www.theglossgoss.com/2012/01/jack-black-intense-therapy-lip-balm.html">The Gloss Goss</a>. You can order them from Mankind, Feel Unique etc but I'd like to have a look 'in person'. Plus, online in the UK they are about £7 each, whereas in Sephora, they are $7.50, which will save me about £2 per tube. Not a massive saving, but every penny counts!</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P302916&categoryId=S10501&shouldPaginate=true">Urban Decay Naked 2</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699866947/" title="P302916_hero by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6699866947_87f681fafd.jpg" width="250" height="250" alt="P302916_hero" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I can't make up my mind about this. I bought the original NAKED palette last time I was there & it was a bit cheaper than buying it in the UK. It sits in my kit and is fab for brides. I'm not sure this is going to be worth another spend and in Sephora it's $50, which is about the same price as the UK. Hmmm *thinks*</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P301016&categoryId=C10550&shouldPaginate=true">Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Super Size</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699867047/" title="P301016_hero by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6699867047_32cbc0dcdb.jpg" width="250" height="250" alt="P301016_hero" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a no brainer. Laura Mercier tinted moisturisers have become a staple in my bridal kit & my own makeup bag. In the UK, 40mls costs £33, which stings a bit, but it's so fab I don't grudge paying it. However, browsing through Sephora online, I've found a 'Super Size' version, which is 3.4oz (100.5mls) costing $58 (roughly £38). This is more than double the UK size, which to buy here a 100mls would be £82.50! Saving about £46. Brilliant!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P231113&shouldPaginate=true&categoryId=5905">Kat Von D Tattoo Concealer</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699867165/" title="P231113_hero by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6699867165_c708a2fe23.jpg" width="250" height="250" alt="P231113_hero" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I meant to buy this the last time I was in the US, but never got round to committing. I regularly do tattoo & birthmark cover-ups and whilst I'm not sure it's the absolute best concealer out there, but I've regretted not giving it a go, so will be picking it up. Probably.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ray-ban.com/uk/products/sun/RB3449?var=002/71">RayBans</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699867461/" title="002_71 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6699867461_712789d58f_z.jpg" width="640" height="362" alt="002_71" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I love me a pair of RayBans and since buying my gold aviators a couple of years ago, they've barely been off my face. I've written before about sunshine in Scotland (particularly in the winter), it's always low & in your eyes. I wear sunglasses ALL THE TIME so when I'm 50 i wont have prune like eyes. Invest people! The gold frames I have just now look great with my colouring, but I do ache for a pair of proper dark black shades, so will be picking up a pair. Buying them in the US instead of here will save me about £20-£30. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/michele-deco-7-link-michele-deco-day-carousel-black-dial-watch-18mm?ID=570476&CategoryID=20532&LinkType=#fn=BRAND%3DMichele%26GENDER%3DFemale;;Unisex%26spp%3D23%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D31">Michele Deco Day Watch</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/michele-deco-7-link-michele-deco-day-carousel-black-dial-watch-18mm?%20%3Ca%20href=" com="" photos="" n02="" 6699867601="" title="1233648_fpx.tif by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6699867601_b9b3d22e66.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="1233648_fpx.tif" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As many of you will know, the trip to NYC is for my birthday (30 grrrrrr) and my lovely family & friends have been very generous by giving me some money to spend on something special. I'm not 100% sure what I'll get (and my research will probably include a whizz round Tiffany's) but I love the look of this watch! I already have a couple of large watches from MK and Fossil, but they are both round & thought this was a little different. I particularly love the fun of the black & colours. From what I can see on the Bloomingdales website, you pick the 'head' and the strap seperately. Does anyone know if this is how it works instore too?</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/templates/Silo.jhtml?itemId=cat102&parentId=cat000000&masterId=&menuPath=cat000000_cat102&navid=topNavWOMEN">Michael Kors</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699867759/" title="1235607_fpx.tif by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6699867759_d9dd06bdfb.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="1235607_fpx.tif" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I adore MK's uhhmmmmm 'aesthetic'? 'ethos'? I'm not sure what it's called - you know; the white t-shirt, jeans & leather sandals basic style of his designs, so where better to invest in a good, basic tan leather bag. Love!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.katespade.com/">Kate Spade</a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868359/" title="Screen shot 2012-01-15 at 09.04.25 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868359/" title="Screen shot 2012-01-15 at 09.04.25 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868359/" title="Screen shot 2012-01-15 at 09.04.25 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6699868359_8370517733.jpg" width="500" height="498" alt="Screen shot 2012-01-15 at 09.04.25" /></a></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I don't even know what to say about this bag. Ever since I saw it online a couple of weeks ago, I've thought about it hourly. It's like Ms Spade looked inside my head & made my perfect bag. Incredible. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is just a selection of the things I *really* want to check out whilst I'm there. There are 100 other places I have on my list to go (MAC Pro store is 1st!). I will do some 'haul' (hate that word!) posts once I'm home. In the meantime, if you know of anywhere I should definitely go, hook me up!!</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-27469915041025797022012-01-15T10:13:00.002+00:002012-01-15T10:21:56.621+00:00Birthday FOTN<div style="text-align: justify;">This week Beauty Blogging Blonde turns 2 (!!) and I turn 29+1! I haven't had much time to think about my blog birthday so will sort that out once I'm back from New York, maybe with a bit of a NYC giveaway... keep your peepers in tip top peeping condition!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyhoo, last night I saw some family for pre-birthday dinner & birthday cupcakes as I wont be here on my actual birthday-day. Thought I would do a quick dinner makeup post...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868647/" title="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868647/" title="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6699868647_1e8805b953_z.jpg" width="640" height="442" alt="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6699868647/" title="400968_10150530059902071_578187070_8786321_377689413_n by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm a little shinier in the pic than I actually was (I hope!), but you get the gist. I wanted some nice bronzey dark smokey eyes, flushed cheeks & no lippy as my lips are currently so dry. So here is what I used...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">FACE Atelier Ultra Foundation in #1</div><div style="text-align: center;">No7 Eye Mousse in 'Fudge'</div><div style="text-align: center;">MAC Patina E/S</div><div style="text-align: center;">MAC Smut E/S</div><div style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Black</div><div style="text-align: center;">YSL Aqua Resistant Mascara in Black</div><div style="text-align: center;">Clinique brow fine liner in #2</div><div style="text-align: center;">MUFE HD Cream Blush in #6</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chanel loose powder in Clair</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A xx</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-362770221910725392012-01-11T20:38:00.003+00:002012-01-11T20:42:27.203+00:00Stila Makeup Amnesty<div style="text-align: center;">*I don't normally publish press releases but thought this one was too good not to shout about!*</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6680597977/" title="Screen shot 2012-01-11 at 20.35.48 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/72741655@N02/6680597977/" title="Screen shot 2012-01-11 at 20.35.48 by AmandaMcLennan, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6680597977_c238689d1d_b.jpg" width="680" height="387" alt="Screen shot 2012-01-11 at 20.35.48" /></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; ">To celebrate the launch of the <b>BRAND NEW</b> Stila makeup counter at Harvey Nichols London**, Stila have created their<span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125); "> </span><b>Stila Makeup Amnesty: Stila Steal<span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125); ">,</span></b> in which Stila are giving away one <b>FREE Lip Glaze in Kitten worth £15</b> to every visitor<span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125); ">…</span>when you trade in an old lip gloss (even one that isn’t Stila). Head to Harvey Nichols London on the 19<sup>th</sup> January to snap up this offer! </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">**there will be a follow-up in Manchester in Feb, so keep your eyes peeled if you can't make it to ol' London Town<br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1540552091739527120.post-25492195880719722252012-01-07T16:46:00.004+00:002012-01-10T17:23:50.360+00:00GHD Video Review<div style="text-align: center;">A 3d tour of these gorgeous <a href="http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.com/2011/12/ghd-scarlet-collection.html">Scarlet by Katy Perry GHD Hair Straighteners</a>...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/COHLI0IaeWs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Buy online <a href="http://www.ghdhair.com/limited-edition-ghds/ghd-scarlet-collection">here</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These were sent for review purposes, but all opinions are my own</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06278849099853816140noreply@blogger.com3