Haul / Boots pt.1

Ok - so I went a bit overboard in Boots last month but I haven't actually shopped in Boots since November (I've been religiously compiling a list, waiting for the 3for2 offers to start).

I had to split the haul in 2 posts... here we start:

Essie Nail Polish in On A Silver Platter - I don’t even like glitter polishes but I just couldn’t resist this prettiness! It looks silver in the bottle but it's actually gold, when it catches the light; the description says 'violet holographic glitter' but they seem pretty blue to me. In any case, it's beautiful and I bet it will look stunning as an accent on the tip of the nails... can't wait to play with it.

Invisibobble traceless hair ring in Brown - oh yeah, I can’t resist a good gimmick ;) I think they work alright and look pretty. You can do a loose ponytail but can't really go around more than twice (I think they may snap), so couldn't really use them at the gym, for example. Something I wanted to try but I'm not sure that I would buy them again - they feel a bit fragile. Have you tried them?

I bought the Revlon by Marchesa Nail Art 3D Jewel Appliques in Royal Burgundy specifically  to wear them with an outfit for an event (link); I’m usually not a big fan of nail wraps since you basically get a single use out of them and they are outrageously overpriced. These are a beautiful pattern but they lasted nothing! I experienced major tip wear in less than 48hrs. I have a few spare ones left so I’ll try and add a top coat and see if it makes any difference…. Very disappointing! :(

I was actually looking for the Real Techniques Retractable Kabuki Brush but I could not find it anywhere in store or online (in Boots). 

I bought the Real Techniques Blush Brush, instead; I meant to add it to my collection at some point anyway. No complaints: it’s just as dreamy as the other RT brushes that I own. It’s truly fantastic to apply powder blush and super soft.

Bourjois Poudre de Riz de Java - first of all, I love the packaging and the scent (the typical baby powder, like the blushes). 

I think it’s a lovely loose powder! Although it looks pretty sparkly, I can safely use it all over the face lightly and it keeps me shine-free all day; I don’t find it to work as an highlighter on me but definitely add radiance to my complexion.

If you read my end of the year mascaras reviews (link), you’ll know that I’ve been replacing all my old mascaras like a good girl. ;)

There’s too much choice around!!! I was set on a Maybelline one and picked up the Maybelline Volum'Express the Colossal Cat Eyes kind of randomly; some people hate it, some people love it… I liked the look of the wand… I shall let you know I get on.

The second part will be up in a few day - Have you tried any of these products yourself? What is your experience?

Don't forget to enter the Spring Giveaway! :)

Review / New from Urban Decay 2014

The Urban Decay Naked range is ever growing and the latest additions come in the form of finishing powders and lipglosses.

Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Loose Finishing Powder* comes in 5 shades to create a flawless base and to compliment the other products from the Naked Skin line - liquid foundation and beauty balm. Personally, I swear by Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Ultra Definition Liquid Make Up and the powder is the perfect finishing step to achieve a semi-matte, yet luminous and flawless look.

I’m shade 3.0 (in the foundation) therefore Naked Medium Light works best for me – there’s actually a chart that you can refer to, so you can buy the ideal match for your base.

It can also been worn on its own on bare skin and, because it's so finely milled, it never ends up looking cakey or unnatural.

The powder has a blurring effect on a multitude of imperfections, pores and redness; I have never achieve such an impressive finish before and I swear, it looks like my skin has been airbrushed… it’s that good!!!

It feels amazing on the skin! Silky and soft to the touch and it contains microbeads that burst of hydration when applied to the skin... it is really quite addictive!

The packaging then, deserves a mention of its own: the sturdy round jar reveals a custom gunmetal sifter with the UD logo! In practicality, it's fantastic and the 4 holes dispense the right amount of product, without any mess.

The formula is also free of oil, parabens, alcohol and fragrances.

I think you can tell the difference in the picture below - of course, in person the results are even more impressive - but it’s undeniable that the skin on the bottom half of my hand looks more even, smooth and the redness has been toned down.

The Urban Decay Naked Ultra Nourishing Lipgloss* will convert even the most reluctant of beauty addict and lipstick devotee.

There are no bright colours in this lip range but they are 9 shades of nudes, bronzes and pinks - all gorgeous and sutaible of many skintones.

Again, the packaging is just stunning! They come in a polished, metallic bronze tube with the iconic 'Naked' cutout on the side.

Liar is a pinky mauve that has the power to brighten any make up look! It’s subtle but instantly beautifying and the super gloss finish is perfect to coordinate with an  high-impact smoky eye.

It's called nourishing for a reason: the formulation contains vitamin E, avocado oil and shea butter to hydrate and condition. Rosehip seed oil also provides an extra boost of vitamin A, vitamin C and antioxidants; it does feel very balmy and non sticky and like you're getting a treatment for your lips, at the same time. 

Are you a fan of the Urban Decay Naked range?
The new products are now available in Debenhams, House of Fraser nationwide and online.

Spring Giveaway - CLOSED!!!

Content:
- No7 Pop & Glow Cream Blush Stick in Mango Sorbet
- Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm in Peach Kiss
- The Body Shop Ginger Sparkle Hand Cream
- Marks & Spencer Limited Collection Textured Polish in Turquoise Mix 

Rules:
- Please follow GFC or Bloglovin (extra entry for both)
- Leave a comment below with your email address

Extra Entries:
- Like the Facebook page (+5)
- follow me on Twitter @PrincessLeica (+5)
- tweet about the giveaway with #giveaway (+1)
- blog about the giveaway/link back to this post on your blog (+2)

***Please leave only 1 COMMENT with all entries - Thank you***

Giveaway is open internationally and will close on the 23rd of April @ noon - UK time.
Winner will be picked via random.org

Good Luck!!! :)

Review / Nourish Revital-Eyes Kale Biomimetic Anti-Ageing Eye Cream

Eye creams are one of those beauty products that – growing older – I get really excited to try out.

Personally, I need a good source of hydration since I noticed in recent years that the skin in this area tends to become dehydrated faster; at the same time, dark circles are my weakness and - although I know I will never eradicate them - any improvement is certainly welcome!

Currently, I’ve been using the Nourish Revital-Eyes Kale Biomimetic Anti-Ageing Eye Cream* which is suitable for all skin types, 79% organic and vegan.

I was immediately intrigued in this product because it contains kale extract which we all know it's a superfood and should be a part of our diet. I find it amazing how they have harvested this vitamin-rich green and we can now benefit from it in a cream form too. 

It also contains pomegranate enzymes to help brighten dark circles and reduce puffiness, biomimetic peptides to firm the skin and it's supercharged with B vitamins & amino acids to fight the signs of ageing.

I don't detect any strong scent and it has a light yellow consistency which is important to prevent the formation of undereye bags; it absorbs quickly into the skin which makes it  an excellent base for your concealer, in the mornings.

It is a bit of a multi-tasker and it’s going to suit a wide range of ages; I find it especially ideal for my age group, when you want to upgrade to a more targeting product  but still feel the need to address many different concerns. I’m not too stressed in fighting wrinkles (just yet) but I feel good in taking care of the inevitable fine lines.

It comes in an attractive white sleek & slim pump bottle with a green kale leaf drawning that perfectly embody the marriage between technology and nature which is at the heart of this product.

Have you tried this cream yet? You can get yours on www.nourishskinrange.com 

FOTD & OOTD / Wedding Guest

Hello lovelies!
I attended an amazing wedding at the weekend - some dear friends got married in a beautiful Scottish location, the bride was stunning and we had a fantastic time.
Since I got all dolled up, I thought I would take full advantage of the occasion... and make a post out of it! :P

***
Dress: Oasis
Earrings: Swarovski
Nails: Revlon by Marchesa Nail Art 3D Jewel Appliques in Royal Burgundy


Face - Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer, Nars Sheer Glow Foundation in deauville, Urban Decay Dew Me Moisturizing Make Up Setting Spray, Benefit High Beam, Mac Sheertone Blush in blushbaby, Guerlain Meteorites Perles in teint rose', Kiko Fierce Spirit Sun Bronzing Blush in 103 mariachi pink;
Eyes - Urban Decay Naked 3 palette, Maybelline 24hr Color Tattoo in permanent taupe, Kiko False Lashes Concentrate Building Base Mascara, Neve Cosmetics Pastello Natural Eyeliner in cincilla', Chanel Inimitable Mascara, Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara;
Lips - Neve Cosmetics Pastello Natural Lipcolor in sfilata/amaranth, L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine Balmy Gloss in mad for pomegranate.

New In / L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Les Blancs Collection

Pastel nails are my absolute favourite all year round and they certainly epitomise Spring for me.

This Spring is no exception and 2014 twist on the trend comes from L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Les Blancs Collection*.

As the name suggests - Les Blancs - they are white polishes infused with a drop of colour; the names are just as adorable as the shades: Peach Neglige, Nouvelle Vague, Pistachio Drage and Lemon Meringue.

White nails look contemporary and sleek but can also notoriously look chalky and streaky; the polishes  apply smoothly thanks to Colour Riche stretch technology formula and have a shine porcelain finish. 

The hint of colour also makes them elegant and very feminine; every shade is more stunning than the other and perfect for every occasion! 

My favourites are Pistachio Drage - the dreamier minty shade - and Lemon Meringue - the more daring canary yellow one.

I can't wait for summer! These pale hues will compliment beautifully tanned skin and the combinations are endless... so stay tuned for more fun ideas! :)

Review / TIGI Bed Head Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo

Recently I’ve been relying on dry shampoos a lot.

I normally tend to wash my hair 2/3 times per week but they seem to get dirty quicker lately; I know some people need (well, want) to wash their hair every morning, but I personally don’t like it – it just does more damage than good.

Anyway, I blame the change in my hair behaviour to the fact that I’ve been wearing hats basically everyday, to shelter from the freezing weather and - consequently - I’ve been abusing products to keep the frizz at bay and to inject a bit of boost to flat and dull roots.

I’ve currently been using the TIGI Bed Head Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo* to freshen up my locks between washes.

This dry shampoo is part of the Bed Head Rockaholic line and comes in a matte black bottle with a green cap; I think it looks pretty cool and you get a generous 300ml of product.

It has a pleasant fresh scent so your hair don’t only look clean but also smell nice! 

It leaves the hair feeling soft and bouncy and it goes on virtually clear (although doesn't claim to be); it doesn’t leave an ashy powdery cast and it's easy to brush off. It's also ideal to add a bit of texture to your hair - when they look flat and lacklustre - or grit when doing hairdos but don't want to weight them down.

I guess the only downside is that it’s not really travel-friendly but definitely a worthy ally for your beauty cabinet.

Do you use dry shampoos? Have you tried this product before?
You can get TIGI Bed Head Rochaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo from HairTrade.com, the UK's leading online retailer of hair extensions, hair care and beauty products. 

Empties / February 2014

Bodycare:

Radox Eastern Spirit Bath Soak: I quite like these Radox bath products. I had this bottle for ages and don’t know if it’s still available since it was a limited edition, but they have a wide range of scents and it’s an affordable way for a bit of pamper. My husband is also a fan of the muscle soak version, especially. 

Repurchase: yep.

Kiko Anti-Cell Serum Spray: I bought this product mainly because of the spray bottle - It’s faster to use in the mornings. It has a fresh awakening scent, which was helpful for early starts, but can’t say it made a huge difference to my skin (if any improvement at all). Also - like with many sprays - it wasn't too reliable, the nozzle got clogged a couple of time but... it was a good price.

Repurchase: probably not.

Weleda Citrus Deodorant: This is the perfect deodorant! Lovely scent, kept me fresh all day and I didn’t experience any staining on my clothes. Although it’s quite small, I’ve come to realize that it’s not very travel-friendly because of the glass bottle… nevertheless, I love it! I also love that it hasn't got all the nasty chemicals, aluminium salts and I think natural deodorants is definitely the way to go.

Repurchase: yes!

Skincare:

REN Active 7 Radiant Eye Gel: Another sample bites the dust! I have gone through countless wee tubes of this Ren eye cream. I love it! The gel consistency is perfect for the eye area and even better if you keep it in the fridge. I shall definitely invest in a full size bottle. 

Repurchase: definitely!

Bioderma Eye Contour Gel Sensitive: This eye cream was disappointing, instead. It wasn’t hydrating enough for my needs and not a good base for concealer either. Shame, since I love the other products from this range and I had high hopes. 

Repurchase: no.

La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift: Sad face that it's finished :( I tried to use this parsimoniously and only before special occasions (considering the price) but it has come to an end, unfortunately; this serum is a great boost for the skin and it also gives a beautiful glow, thanks to the subtle sparkle particles.

Repurchase: wish I could afford it!

New In / The Body Shop Spring Trend 2014

I’ve been wanting to try The Body Shop Shimmer Cubes palettes for a while; I was first mesmerised by swatches that I saw online and they certainly don’t disappoint in person either.

I read comments of people thinking that they looked messy and too delicate but they are actually very compact powders and – let’s put it this way – they won’t crumble if you stick your finger in them.

I love that each square comes individually cased in his own wee container, giving you the flexibility to mix and match shades and create a customize quad.

They are also extremely creamy on application, dreamy to blend and they deliver an intense colour pay-off.
As the name suggests, they are all shimmery shadows with a luminous, metallic finish; there are no chunky glittery bits and the quality is consistent (and high) on all colours!

The Body Shop has just released 2 new palettes for Spring 2014: no. 30 Spring Bronze and no. 26 Hot Pink.

I thought Spring Bronze would get all my love, but Hot Pink is surprisingly wearable and, paired with a natural lipgloss, is ideal for a fresh faced look. 

 The Body Shop Shimmer Cubes Palette in Hot Pink* contains the shades: Garden Rose, Deep Fuchsia, Light Coral, Champagne Pink.

My favourites are Champagne Pink - the lighter shade - also to be used as an iridescent highlighter on the cheekbones and Light Coral - as the perfect pastel accent for the approaching Spring season!

The Body Shop Shimmer Cubes Palette in Spring Bronze* has a safe array of hues that will suit every eye colour and to create a stunning bronzed smoky eye. 

The shades are: Rich Espresso, Burnished Gold, Dusty Fawn and Warm Copper; from Burnished Gold that will add light to the inner corner, to Dusty Fawn that will look amazing smouldered around the eyes and it has already stolen my heart – Beautiful, beautiful shade! Warm Copper also looks gorgeous on its own and paired with a coat of purple mascara, if you feel brave.

What do you think of The Body Shop Spring 2014 Collection? Head over to www.TheBodyShop.co.uk to check the hair chalks and lipglosses too! :)