Monday 30 September 2013

Modern Muse by Estee Lauder

Modern Muse by Estee Lauder (picture from website http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/)
 
Whilst visiting my local Boots today I was lucky enough to be given a sample of the highly anticipated new fragrance by Estee Lauder, Modern Muse. As a long time user of Estee Lauder's Private Collection (30 years!!!) and Bronze Goddess, a holiday must have, I was very excited to try it out.
 
The scent is distinctly floral with undertones of jasmine, vanilla and musk, normally some of my favourite accents, however, I found it to be a little bit sweet for my liking. It was less obvious than Estee Lauder's Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia and did soften after about 30 mins but if you prefer something a little more fresh then I would suggest you try Kenzo Flower, Marc Jacob's new fragrance Honey or one of my favourites, Chanel No.19. It is always worth remembering that Modern Muse may smell very different on you so do give it a try.
 
Please let me know what you think when you get a chance to try it out and I would love to hear of any fragrance recommendations you might have.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Sunday 29 September 2013

Every girl deserves her own piece of Lola Rose!

My first piece of Lola Rose

Lola Rose 'Alessia' necklace and 'Elly' ring in Purple Fossil Jasper 
 

I bought my first piece of Lola Rose nearly ten years ago and that was to spark an obsession that continues to this day. During this time I have not only embraced the beautiful jewellery designs but have also now incorporated several scarves, socks and fragranced shower gels into my ever
growing collection. The problem is that Lola Rose keep bringing out gorgeous new lines in stunning new colours every season and I am powerless to resist!!!!





This autumn I was instantly drawn to the new designs in Purple Fossil Jasper, its warm shades of purple and browns are a must have to enhance your Fall wardrobe, a definite statement piece. I love the longer length of the 'Alessia' necklace, it would look stunning with this years damson coloured woollens!

I chose the 'Elly' ring to complement the necklace, it is an easy to wear design with an elasticated band meaning 'one size fits all'.

With Christmas fast approaching a piece of Lola Rose jewellery would make a very special present for a mum, sister, daughter or best friend. Although some items can be expensive, there are always more reasonably priced pieces to suit any budget, I will certainly be adding some to my Christmas wish list!

What piece of Lola Rose will you be hoping for in your Christmas stocking this year?

XXX

Monday 23 September 2013

Always remember to treat yourself!!!!

Accessorize winter warmers!
 
Never underestimate how much even the smallest treat can cheer you up, especially as it appears our wonderful summer has officially ended and the dark nights are drawing in.
 
One of my favourite 'go to' shops when I'm in need of a quick pick-me-up is Accessorize, I'm always guaranteed to find something to brighten my shopping trip. Usually, I'm tempted by their wonderful collections of jewellery and hair accessories, a must have to enhance any mood or outfit, but this time of year it's more likely that I will be drawn towards 'winter warmers' such as socks, tights, woolly hats and scarfs.
 
They're socks are a particularly good find at the moment as you can buy three pairs for £8, a real bargin! My only problem with this is deciding on which three pairs as there are so may wonderful designs to chose from, including subtle fairisles and fun animal characters. I have a feeling I will be having a sort out of my sock draw and be popping in again very soon!
 
What treats will you be buying this season?

xxx

Saturday 21 September 2013

Chanel Le Vernis Fall 2013 Collection Superstition

Chanel Le Vernis Collection Superstition

Estee Lauder Metallics Collection


From left to right Chanel Elixir 589, Chanel Mysterious 601, Chanel Alchimie 591 and Estee Lauder Metallic Green.
 
I was really excited by the arrival of Chanel's new Fall 2013 nail collection. They have managed to capture the warm shades of Autumn mixing both really wearable shades with sumptuous rich colours
that will enhance any evening outfit.
 
By far, my favourite is Alchimie. This gorgeous golden varnish with a slight hint of green is a must have with the Christmas season fast approaching, but lets not mention the 'C' word just yet!!!!!
It needed a good couple of coats to avoid any streaking but once on it lasted for days with minimal chipping.
 
If you prefer something a little less obvious for the daytime, can I suggest Elixir. This lovely warm pink is ideal with any daytime outfit, office or casual, and easily makes the transition from day to nightime wear.
 
As usual Chanel have come up with a third shade that is a little more daring than the other two. I loved Mysterious as an evening varnish as it is less harsh than a black.This warm grey coordinates nicely with this seasons winter colours, a stunning accessory to any outfit. Again this shade requires at least two good coats, possibly three, to ensure an even coverage and it isn't quite as durable as the metallic Alchimie but still worth wearing even if its for just one evening.
 
Another collection worth checking out is Estee Lauder's Metallics. I've tried Metallic Green, not unlike Chanel's Alchimie, just a little greener. This shade was slightly more matt than Chanel's and only required one good coat. I also found it's longevity better than Alchimie and taking into account the price, it's certainly worth a look. I've got my eyes on Steel Orchid next!!!
 
I am now anticipating the arrival of Chanel's Rouge Allure Moire Collection later this year. Rose Moire 593 and Rouge Moire595 are two fantastic shades of pink, one subtle, one decadent. An essential addition to any girls collection!!! 
 
What favourite shades will you be wearing this season?

XXX

Wednesday 18 September 2013

Mulberry Alexa handbag in Slate Blue

This picture from the Mulberry website shows my beautiful new Alexa handbag in Slate Blue, INSTANT LOVE!!!!!!!

Being a big fan of anything Mulberry, particularly handbags, when I saw the Alexa I knew I just had to have it. Already an owner of the iconic black Mulberry Bayswater, I knew how well made and durable their bags have proven to be. I have been a fan of the Alexa for some time but when I saw this blue I knew it would be a valuable new addition to my wardrobe. The colour is ideal for everyday use and will match most casual outfits, particularly jeans now that the weather is turning colder.

This bag is the perfect size for everyday use and, unlike the Bayswater which I find a little heavy, is easy to carry. I really like the detatchable shoulder strap, useful for those times when you just have to go 'hands free' and the clasp and poppered straps make it secure although sometimes inconvenient when trying to get to your phone in the inside pocket in a hurry. However, any inconvenience is overshadowed by the lovely soft feel of the leather and design of the overall handbag. The Alexa will very quickly become a useful addition to my ever growing collection of handbags!!!!!

What handbag favourites do you have?

XXX