May 15, 2016July 31, 2016 - vicky 4 Comments

MICHAEL KORS JET SET TRAVEL CROSSBODY BAG REVIEW

GOLD 7 — Jet Set Travel Large Crossbody Gold

Michael Kors is a brilliant American fashion designer. I love his urban yet feminine style. His bag designs are convenient for the modern woman who needs a stylish and helpful bag. I love his variety of styles, colors and textures. Most importantly I love how there is a price range for his bags which covers everyone; there are cheaper options and more expensive ones. Looking for an elegant and stylish bag, one that I can wear on a daily basis and that goes with all my clothes, I came across Michael Kors’s Jet Set Travel crossbody bag. I tend to prefer the crossbody design because I want my hands to be free when I am around and the strap has to be long enough so it won’t bother me while walking. Also I believe a crossbody bag is not as easy to be stolen from you as a tote, for instance.

navy 3 — Jet Set Travel Large Crossbody Navy

The Jet Set Travel crossbody bag is a very simple bag; it is basically one space and opens up with a simple zipper. The design is kind of rectangular and has the name of the designer in gold letters on the front. Inside, the bag has some pockets which are helpful for placing your phone and cards, so you won’t just throw them in the bag and take ages to find them. I got the large size because the small one is simply too small. It is like a clutch and it can only fit my phone, keys and cards; not my entire wallet or anything else I like to carry with me when I am out. Plus the price of the two sizes is almost the same with the larger one only 20-30 $ more expensive. So why not go bigger right? The star is very long and it does give you some extra space to puncture a few more holes if you need it to be a bit longer, like I do. It comes in two different leathers: the regular, soft one (blue color) and the Saffiano one (god color). The Saffiano leather is sturdier, tougher and less flexible. It also gives a shiny look to the respective color. I do like both types of leather but truth to be told, the Saffiano’s lack of flexibility, sometimes makes it hard to squeeze in that extra little something. I got the bags at 165 Euros which I don’t consider that much for the quality I receive, and the wearability of the bag itself. Since I got them both, they are the only ones I use when going out day and night. To be honest I love the gold one a little more and it just seems to match every piece of clothing I own. I love that it jazzes up any outfit effortlessly.

I would definitely recommend this bag not only for the daytime but for the nighttime as well. For everyday use it just has the perfect size; it fits my wallet, phone, eye glasses case, keys and hand wipes. All these are my essentials, but it also fits a couple of makeup bits like a lipstick and a small perfume, and even my phone charger. I really love this bag! And for the nighttime, although it is not a clutch bag, it is perfect for when standing in a crowded bar with your drink at hand. It is a lovely, stylish crossbody bag, made of good quality materials, at an affordable price. What more can you ask from the perfect casual bag? Comment down below and share your favorite everyday bag! Also, let’s connect through Instagram (@vogueandmacarons) and Twitter (@vogueandmcaron)!

Till next time take care dolls 😉

Vicky xx

April 10, 2016July 31, 2016 - vicky Leave a comment

EVERYDAY NATURAL MAKEUP LOOK

For my everyday go-to makeup, I try not to use many products or create a “heavy” look. I am a fan of the more natural look that basically enhances my characteristics instead of altering them or hiding them. Therefore I don’t really use bright or dark eyeshadow, however, from time to time I pick a red or a fuchsia lipstick because I like adding a pop of color to the natural look. Having a simple makeup look is also great for transitioning from day to-night by touching it up and making it a bit bolder. If the look is too strong already, I don’t think it differentiates from a nighttime look. The look I share with you guys, is one of my favorite for everyday because it is simple, it brightens up my skin and makes it look youthful, dewy and fresh. I love rose gold, nude and brown/mauve shades so most of the looks I create revolve around those colors. Now let’s get started shall we?

yes

Step 1 – Face

When doing my makeup, the most important thing to me is to create a flawless base. Therefore, I use more products and effort for my face than my eyes or lips.

MAC Prep and Prime primer (on face and eyes)
NARS Sheer Glow foundation in Mont Blanc
Bobbi Brown Corrector in Bisque
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla
Too Faced Cocoa Powder foundation powder in Fair (for setting)
Too Faced Sweethearts Blush in Candy Glow
Benefit Cosmetics Liquid Face Highlighter in High Beam (on cheekbones, nose, brow bone and cupid’s bow)
Too Faced Bronzer in Chocolate Soleil (for contouring)

Step 2 – Eyes

Before I am going for a natural look, I like to use nude/light brown or rose gold/pink eyeshadow. I don’t like to use too many different shades as it kind of cancels the whole simple purpose of the look. Once I am done with the shadow and mascara, I do my eyebrows. I always do my eyebrows, even when I don’t use any shadow on my eyes at all, as I believe the eyebrows to be the most important facial characteristic. They frame the face and give structure to it. Well groomed eyebrows can make a huge difference to the way someone looks. Therefore, my biggest makeup advice would always be: never omit your eyebrows!

Urban Decay Naked 3 palette shade Strange (as a base all over my eye and eyebrow bone – perfect pink/white)
Urban Decay Naked palette 3 shade Burnout (on my lid as the main color – gorgeous metallic rose gold)
Urban Decay Naked 3 palette shade Limit (as a blending shade to soften the look and also apply on lower lash line – great matte pink/brown)
Lancome Definicils Mascara
H&M Soft Kajal Eye Pencil in Pale Nude (on the waterline to brighten up the eyes and make them look bigger)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz pencil in Medium Brown (for the eyebrows)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel (to set the eyebrows and blend them out a bit)

Step 3 – Lips

For my lips I don’t have a specific routine as they are my favorite part of my makeup. I like being playful and bold but I also like being subtle and natural. I know it sounds complicated, but basically I can wear anything on my lips. From liquid lipsticks to lip pencils and from burgundy to pink. For this look I decided to go for pink since there is rose gold on my eyes.

MAC Lip Pencil in Edge to Edge (I trace my natural lip line and then fill them in as well – perfect medium pink shade)
Rosebud Perfume Co. Lip Balm in Rosebud Salve (I mix it with my lip pencil to create a glossy, plum, natural lip plus it moisturizes the lips)

For my everyday makeup look, I prefer to use natural, soft shades that enhance my face and make it look fresh and bright. I don’t like to use many products or bold colors as I am usually going for a natural, simple look. For the makeup look I shared with you, I used light brown, rose gold and pink shades, as they are girly and perfect for spring. Comment below and share your favorite daily makeup looks. Also don’t forget to connect with me on Instagram (@vogueandmacarons) and Twitter (@vogueandmacaron)!

Till next time take care dolls 😉

Vicky x

April 7, 2016July 31, 2016 - vicky Leave a comment

INSIDE OUT-LINGERIE AS OUTWEAR

INSIDE OUT – LINGERIE AS OUTWEAR

ola

Lingerie-inspired looks have been around for years. Remember Carrie Bradshaw and her slip on dress or the 90’s. Wearing lingerie as clothes has been one of the most controversial fashion trends. You will either love it or hate it. Although I understand how some criticise them of being too revealing, I do like the sexy vibe they have. Matching a sexy, lingerie-inspired item with more casual and everyday clothes, is an easy and effortless way of spicing up your dressing routine. They allow you to be sexy even outside the bedroom. There are many types of lingerie which are worn as outwear. Below I share a few of my favorite ones.

The slip on dress

There is nothing sexier than an ethereal slip on dress. Sheer, lace or satin, it is still the epitome of sexy. The only important thing is to be careful when picking the length as a too short one could seem a bit too much. A midi, slip on dress with a pair of strappy heels is the very definition of effortless sexy. For instance this gorgeous powder blue Mango dress would look amazing with a pair of white or silver sandals. Sexy yet innocent, it would be perfect for a summer night out. However, the slip on dress can also be worn in the daytime with the right styling. A pair of chunky boots, or ankle boots and a nice bomber or denim jacket would tone it down without taking any femininity away. For instance this lovely Zara floral camisole dress is perfect for a summer day. You can pair it with sandals or ankle boots and a denim jacket for a grunge look. Just don’t forget to be careful with the length of your camisole dress as a too short one could seem a bit too much.

The bralet

A bralet is another lingerie-turned outwear. It is inspired by bras, but it is not as small and revealing. It is a bit longer and usually the material is a bit thicker. A bralet is also very versatile as it can be worn with skirts, pants and shorts. It channels a feminine and relaxed vibe. I love wearing bralets in the nighttime with a pair of pants and a nice jacket, however, they can be worn in the daytime too depending on the material and length. For instance this lovely ASOS Festival bralet with fringe would look amazing with a nice pair of denim shorts or jeans. On the other hand, this cute Missguided lacy one would look better as a nighttime outfit with a skirt or a pair of pants and a blazer.

The bodysuit

Another type of lingerie-inspired top, besides from bralet, is the lacy or slinky bodysuit. This is actually my favorite lingerie-turned outwear. I love bodysuits way too much! This Missguided sheer bodysuit with the appliqué flowers is simply beautiful! I got it myself and I can’t wait to wear it with a pair of denim shorts and a sheer kimono for a more toned down daily look. However, I can also pair it with white pants and heels for a romantic nighttime look. Another lingerie-looking bodysuit is this black Missguided one with the lace trim on the cleavage. This is a total showstopper; style it with a pair of plain black pants with wide leg for an elegant and sexy nighttime look.

The pijama shorts

Apart from the slip on dresses and the sexy tops, there are also the pyjama shorts. These shorts are reminiscent of the pyjamas we all wear to sleep. They are usually silky or lacy and have a relaxed vibe. As with all the previous pieces, they are also versatile and can be dressed up or down. This cute Missguided pair of shorts will look great with a crop top and sneakers for a day look, or a bodysuit and heels for a night look. Another pyjama-inspired pair of shorts is this lovely Y.A.S one with the lace trim. It is perfect for spring and summer as it is very lightweight. I love how there is a romantic vibe to it but it can be toned down with a plain t-shirt and flats.

Lingerie as outwear is not a new trend. It has been around for years whereas it dominated the 90’s (see Courtney Love). It may be a very controversial one but I personally love it, because it is a trend that underlines a woman’s femininity and sensuality. The most important thing though, is to incorporate the trend to your life without being tacky and over the top. Picking up a main piece and match it with casual items for an easy everyday look or with more delicate pieces for the perfect sexy nighttime look. Comment down below and share your thoughts on this controversial trend and if you have any favorite pieces share them too. Also don’t forget to connect on my Instagram (@vogueandmacarons) and Twitter (@vogueandmacaron)!

Till next time take care dolls 😉

Vicky x

April 4, 2016July 31, 2016 - vicky Leave a comment

STEPS FOR GLOWING SKIN

Glowing, youthful skin is something all women strive to achieve through various products and treatments. Our skin is very fragile; it gets damaged very easily either from factors we something to do with (like diet and makeup) or factors out of our control (like the environment and time). Although it is not easy to change the effect these factors have on our skin, there are ways for us to protect and even repair our skin by minimizing the effect of the negative factors. Bellow, I share with you guys some easy daily and weekly steps that should not be omitted and that will help to achieve the glowing skin we all desire.

DAILY STEPS

Daytime

Cleansing: Every morning it is important to cleanse our skin once we wake up. You might think that it is not necessary as all we did was sleep, so how come the skin is dirty. However, throughout the night, our skin is exposed to the environment around us, plus there are the products we used the night before that need to be removed. Therefore, we should cleanse our skin with a mild cleanser, to merely refresh it and wash away any impurities.

L-R: first aid beauty, philosophy, lancome, lancome, first aid beauty, clarisonic — L-R: First Aid Beauty, Philosophy, Lancome, Lancome, First Aid Beauty, Clarisonic

Moisturizing: Once we have cleansed our skin and before applying any makeup, it is important to moisturize it. During the day our skin is exposed to the harsh environment, like the sun and the car fumes, plus we have makeup on. Either the weather or the ingredients of our makeup, might dry our skin. In order to keep our skin hydrated we need to apply a light moisturizer, that will not burden the skin or interfere with our makeup.

L-R: kiehl's, charlotte tilbury, lancome, lancome, jurlique — L-R: Kiehl’s, Charlotte Tilbury, Lancome, Lancome, Jurlique

Sunblock: The final step of a daytime skincare routine, must be the sunblock. We all know how harmful the sun can be for our skin. From creating free radicals and quicker aging to skin cancer, the sun rays are a major source of skin damage. Therefore, it is essential to apply a good, high protection sunblock before applying our makeup.

Nighttime

Remove makeup: Removing our makeup at the end of the day is the basic step of a good nighttime routine. Many women tend to omit that step, which results in all the chemicals from the makeup products to stay in the skin for the entire day. This essentially results in a lot of damage; from breakouts to dry and irritated skin. Therefore, it is crucial to remove all the makeup from the face and eyes.

L-R: Koh Gen Do, Clinique, Johnson & Johnson, Biotherma, Ren — L-R: Koh Gen Do, Clinique, Johnson & Johnson, Bioderma, Ren

Cleansing: Once the makeup is removed, we should cleanse our skin. Even with the makeup remover products, some makeup will remain on the skin. Plus our skin has been exposed and covered in makeup throughout the day. Therefore, it is very important to cleanse it with a stronger cleanser than the one we used in the morning. The cleanser will relieve the skin from all the dirt and damage it has been through since morning.

L-R: fFrst Aid Beauty, Philosophy, Lancome, Lancome, First Aid Beauty, Clarisonic

Serum: Before applying our nighttime moisturizer, it is important to apply a lightweight serum over our skin. Based on the skin’s needs, it could be a hydrating one, a brightening one or an anti-aging one. Serums are more concentrated than moisturizers and packed with beneficial ingredients. They are basically boost-shots for the skin.

F-R: Algenist, Nude, Jurlique, Dior, Lancome, Dior

Moisturizer: The last step of a good nighttime routine is the moisturizer. Same as in the morning, the moisturizer will hydrate the skin during the night. Since during sleep our body doesn’t function as intensively as the rest of the day, and since we don’t put makeup on while we sleep, the night moisturizer has to be a bit thicker than the day one. The night moisturizer can also have anti-aging properties. Don’t forget that during sleep, our body heals itself and repairs any damages, so we should do what we can to help it.

WEEKLY STEPS

Apart from a good daily routine, it is important once or twice a week to exfoliate our skin and apply a mask. Exfoliating is important as it removes the dead cells and skin. It basically rejuvenates the skin and polishes it. The “bad” skin is washed away for the “new” one to emerge. Because the exfoliating process could be a little harsh for the skin, it is important not to overdo with it; exfoliating once or twice a week is more than enough. Apart from exfoliating the skin, applying a mask is equally important. It could be a hydrating, brightening, anti-aging or anti-blemish mask; the mask’s purpose is dictated by the skin’s needs. Face masks are concentrated and therefore easily absorbed by the skin. They offer an instant boost or repair of any damage done to the skin. Applying a mask on the face is a spa-like treatment but in the comfort of your own home. Again a little goes a long way, so once or twice a week is the perfect frequency for face masks.

exfoliators — F-R: Lancome, Fresh, Chanel, Laura Mercier

L-R: H&M, Fresh, First Aid Beauty, Lancome, Fig & Yarrow, Kocostar

Following some simple daily and weekly steps will result in clean, glowing, youthful skin. Using only a few products, can help achieve the perfect skin we all desire. Although my skin doesn’t have any specific problems, I follow these steps, as much as I can, to protect my skin and keep it glowing and fresh. Comment below and share your favorite skincare routine steps. Also let’s connect on Instagram (@vogueandmacarons) and Twitter (@vogueandmacaron)!

Till next time take care dolls 😉

Vicky x

April 1, 2016July 31, 2016 - vicky Leave a comment

BLUSH-THE SPRING PINK

BLUSH – THE SPRING PINK

ola

Blush pink is a color I have always loved. Maybe it’s my inner ballerina (another dream) or maybe it is the romantic in me, but I always loved this pale shade of pink that is neither too intense nor too faded. It is the pink shade that has a brown hint to it, which gives it an earthly vibe. I really like how easy this color is to match to others and how versatile it can be. It is the perfect color for the in-between seasons like autumn and spring. It reminds me of blossoming flowers. It is a sort of pastel but not really that much. Blush pink is a very popular color this spring and you can find it everywhere, from clothes to shoes and accessories. I love matching it to bronze, rose gold and silver, as these metallic shades are the perfect way to glam up a color that “shy”. Below I share with you guys my 5 favorite blush pink pieces for this spring.

The Coat

I love this loose pink coat from ZARA. It has the perfect blush shade and no buttons, which gives the relaxed vibe of a cardigan or a duster coat. It is not very thick, which makes it perfect for the warmer spring weather. I also love its big pockets, as I always like to keep my phone around instead of having it in and out my purse all the time. A really lovely spring coat!

The Top

This ASOS shirt with the ruffle hem is so cute and perfect for spring. It is lightweight and in a gorgeous pink shade. It has a girly vibe so it might not be for everyone, but I really like girly clothes and it is something you can style day and night.

The Skirt

A flowy, midi skirt in spring’s hot color, is a wardrobe season must. This ASOS midi skirt with buttons in blush is a very versatile piece for your wardrobe. You can style it with almost every color, and it can be dressed up or dressed down. I love pieces that can be worn at any part of the day without looking too much. It is perfect for the warm weather, when you want to wear a skirt which is a little more comfortable than a mini one.

The Pants

Now I am not a pants person; I love jeans, skirts, dresses and shorts but I don’t particularly like pants. However, if I had to pick a staple pair of pants for this season, it would be this ZARA pair of culottes. That is, because they combine two hot spring trends: the color blush and the culottes design. Some people think culottes are unflattering, and to be honest they can easily be, but I believe it is all about how you style them. A pair of flowy culottes is not the easiest piece to style, but with a nice flowy top or a shirt/t-shirt tucked in, they will look absolutely awesome. I like them because they are different from the usual cigarette pants and because of their gorgeous blush color.

The Shoes

A staple pieces list would not be complete without any accessories or shoes. Lately I am really obsessed with the lace up pointy flats. It is a style that has been a hot trend the past year, and I am totally caught up in this. I love how the lace up shoes can be a great alternative to the good old ballerina flats. They give a boho, yet more polished vibe which I love. You can have a very simple outfit but these shoes will definitely draw the attention. I particularly like this Missguided pair of lace up flats in blush, because of the color once again. I just love blush pink and I believe that its closeness to nude makes it a staple color to multi-match this season. Honestly, I can’t think of a better basic pair of shoes for spring than a pair of blush lace up flats.

Spring is a transitional season, where the weather gets warmer and everything gets brighter and more vivid in general. Blush is lovely shade of pink, which associates with the blossoming flowers and the earth, as it is quite close to nude. I really like this color, because it is versatile and therefore, easily styled. It is a girlier version of nude really. The 5 pieces mentioned above, are my favorite staples for this season in the color blush. I hope you enjoy my suggestions and I would love to hear your favorite items in blush or any other color you love for spring. Also don’t forget to connect with me on Twitter (@vogueandmacaron) and Instagram (@vogueandmacarons)!

Till next time take care dolls 😉

Vicky x

March 10, 2016 - crazyandfashionable Leave a comment

4 AMAZING MOISTURIZERS FOR DRY SKIN

Dry skin is a problem we all have encountered at some point of our lives. Although I would not normally characterize my skin as dry, in the winter due to the cold weather and humid atmosphere, it can get pretty dry. This is really frustrating as I hate seeing my skin flakey and dry, plus it is more challenging to apply my makeup and for the makeup itself to last. In order to keep my skin hydrated and soft, I apply a moisturizing cream every day. I like to alternate my moisturizers because once my skin gets used to a product, the product doesn’t work anymore. All the moisturizers mentioned below are my favorites and I am really satisfied with all of them.

Lancome Binefait Multi-Vital Night

This is my favorite night moisturizer. I use it literally every night for the past 3 weeks and I am really happy with it. It has a light, sheer feel but it is a very rich moisturizer. A small quantity is enough for my entire face. It doesn’t have an unpleasant scent, and it doesn’t have any oily residue. It moisturizes my skin incredibly. Once it is fully absorbed, my skin feels very smooth and soft. In the morning my skin looks plum and clear. It has a nice healthy look and it is still very soft. I absolutely love this cream!

Givenchy Hydra Sparkling Moisturizing Cream

I have this moisturizer for a couple of years now and it doesn’t fail to satisfy me every time. It is a thick, creamy moisturizer that is easily applied and instantly absorbed by the skin. It makes my skin immediately soft and smooth. It moisturizes it and keeps it hydrated for hours. It has shea butter which does wonder for the skin, as it gives it a nice and fresh glow. It does have a perfume scent which might be unpleasant to some, but I personally am not bothered at all. I really like how good my skin feels afterwards.

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Cream

I got this cream as part of the Gift Of Goddess holiday set and I was really looking forward to try it. I was instantly in love with it. With its SPF 15 it is the perfect day moisturizer. It has an amazing scent, as it smells like roses and gardenia. It is easily absorbed, although it is quite thick. Again a small quantity is enough for the entire face, as it is easily applied. I love how smooth and soft my skin feels afterwards; so plum and fresh. Plus it is protected from the damaging sun rays. Hydrated, soft and protected; what more can you ask for your skin?

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Kiehl’s moisturizer is another favorite of mine. It is a nice, thick moisturizer without an unpleasant scent. It is easily applied on the skin like the others and it has a sheer finish, which means it is absorbed quite fast. It does stay on the skin a little longer than the others though. It makes the skin very hydrated and it is supposed to keep it that way for an entire day! I really enjoy wearing this moisturizer when I don’t intend to put makeup on as it takes a little longer to be absorbed.

Moisturizing your skin is one of the most important daily rituals that should never be omitted. Not only dry skin needs moisturizing; any type of skin needs hydration. It is a way to keep the skin soft, plum and glowing. All these moisturizers are equally amazing. They make my skin smooth, fresh and hydrated. I can’t pick out my favorite one as they are all great. There is the one for the night, the one for the day when going out and the others for any moment really. I would love to hear which are your favorite moisturizers and why. Also don’t forget to pop over my Instagram (@vogueandmacarons) and Twitter (@vogueandmacaron) and say hello!

Till next time take care dolls 😉 xxx

Vicky

January 7, 2016 - crazyandfashionable Leave a comment

LAURA MERCIER SWEET TEMPTATIONS REVIEW

LAURA MERCIER SWEET TEMPTATIONS AMBRE VANILLE SET REVIEW

Hello everyone! I hope 2016 is treating you all good so far! Although I am really excited for the new year, I am also sad that the holidays are over. All the gifts and the cheerful , festive spirit are gone. This year, there were so many amazing holiday sets from so many beauty and skin care brands, that it was really hard to choose from. Either for a present or for myself, picking just one set was a hard task. However, one of the sets that really stood out to me and I got my hands on, is Laura Mercier’s Sweet Temptations Ambre Vanille Luxe Body Collection set. This is a bath and body set from Laura Mercier and it includes 4 amazing products. A shower gel, a honey bath with its wooden honey dipper, a body cream (souffle) and a perfume, all with the Ambre Vanille scent. I had heard so many amazing words about Laura Mercier’s bath products and especially its honey bath, that I knew I had to have this set; and I was happy to realise that everything I had heard was true; the set is simply amazing.

My favorite thing from the entire set, would be the body cream, or body souffle as it is called. It is a thick, rich body lotion, that moisturizes and softens the skin. I apply it after showering and my skin instantly feels silky smooth, plus it smells amazing. The Ambre Vanille scent is wonderful. It is quite sweet but not in a sickly way; more like a vanilla cookie way. It is currently my favorite body moisturizer; so rehydrating and soft.

The shower gel is quite lovely. You only need a small quantity and you get a lot of foam. It smells amazing as well and it’s a perfect way to layer the scent. Showering with the gel and then layering with the body cream, is a perfect way to make the scent last longer and be more intense. Although the gel is not a big size, it is going to last for a while, as I prefer using it on special occasions and not on a daily basis.

The perfume is a tiny 15 ml bottle that you can easily put in your bag and carry with you. It has the exact same scent, perhaps a bit stronger due to the alcohol. It’s the last step on the layering process, behind the shower gel and body cream. It’s not a big bottle obviously but it is a nice touch in the entire set. It may not be the centre piece of the set but it is handy part of the Ambre Vanille line. Since I don’t wear perfume often due to my allergy, this will definitely last me for a while.

Last but not least, the star of the set and a best seller, is the honey bath that comes along with its own wooden honey dipper. You fill in your bathtub with water and then add a swirl of the honey bath for a relaxing bath. It smells amazing and creates a lot of bubbles. Its scent is not overwhelming, on the contrary it is very relaxing and stress-relieving. This product is definitely going to last me a while, as I don’t take a bath every day and I don’t need more than a swirl or two for a nice foam.

The Laura Mercier Sweet Temptations set with the Ambre Vanille scent, is absolutely amazing. All the products are lovely. From the simple shower gel and perfume to the moisturizing body cream and relaxing honey bath, this set will steal your heart. It will make you feel you are in your own luscious home spa. With Almond, Brown Sugar, Coconut, the Ambre Vanille holiday set is perfect for anyone who wants to have a lovely, soft skin that smells irresistibly delicious. I absolutely recommend the set to everyone. As for myself, I intend to repurchase the products individually once they are finished. And the best part is that the set is still available on the Laura Mercier site! So you guys can still get your hands on it if you hurry! Have any of you guys have tried any Laura Mercier bath and body products and if so do you like them? Comment down below and share your own experience. Also don’t forget to pop over my Instagram (@blueberrylover) and Twitter (@vickyinlalaland) and say hi!

Till next time take care dolls 😉 xxx

Vicky

January 3, 2016 - crazyandfashionable Leave a comment

DECEMBER FAVORITES

Hello everyone and Happy New Year! I wish you all an amazing 2016, where your wildest dreams come true! It has been a bit crazy this past week due to all the celebrations and preparations, so I am a little late with my monthly favorites. December was a lovely month with all the presents and the festive spirit. I got the chance to try some new products that I absolutely loved and can’t wait to share with you guys.

Jo Malone Perfume – French Lime Blossom

Every time I go by Jo Malone’s stand I always feel the urge to smell the amazing perfumes and candles. This year is definitely Jo Malone’s year for me. Not only I got my first candle (see post) but also I got a couple of perfumes. From the beginning, I was in love with the French Lime Blossom perfume. It has a powdery scent and it reminds me of something clean and fresh, like soap. I know it doesn’t seem like much but I absolutely love that scent. It makes me feel peaceful, like I am in a fresh meadow on a spring day. I love it when I can associate a perfume to something so stress relieving. It is not overwhelming or too strong. I love the perfume so much, that I am considering getting the candle too at some point.

Charlotte Tilbury – Charlotte’s Magic Cream

I got this cream in Charlotte Tilbury holiday set “The gift of Goddess” (see review). Having heard so many amazing things about Charlotte Tilbury’s beauty and skin care products, I have wanted to try them for a while now. I got the cream in a small size and I tried it right away. It’s amazing; such a moisturizing cream with a nice thick texture. It smells lovely (like a rose), and it doesn’t make my face oily at all. You only need to apply a little bit, which means my small pot will last. I love how smooth and fresh my face feels afterwards, especially now in the winter where it gets quite dry.

Michael Kors Camille Small Leather Satchel in black

I was looking for a nice everyday bag for a couple of months now. Since I don’t have a light grey bag, I was after that color. I think it’s very neutral and I can wear it daily all year round. I never had a Michael Kors bag before, but I always liked his designs, as they are modern and sophisticated. However, I couldn’t find the style and size I wanted in light grey. I was really bumped, but then I came across the Camille satchel in black and I was in love. It is such a cute bag, with the perfect size for daily use. It has a strap, many compartments and the leather is so soft. It was simply perfect. My mom surprised me by getting it for me for Christmas! Black is the perfect color that matches with everything. It is not the color I wanted, but it is a basic, neutral color which is what I was going for bottom line. The size is just great; apart from daytime, I can get it for a dinner or a drink as well. It is not really small, and it can accommodate everything I carry with me daily plus an umbrella in case of rain. An absolutely ideal bag!

Klurskin cleanser with jojoba and coconut

As I have mentioned before, I am a skin care hoarder. I love skin care products and I am always looking for something new that will freshen up and improve my skin. Although I do like all the major cosmetics and skin care brands, lately I am interested more and more into smaller, indie skin care brands. They are local and use natural ingredients. Klurskin is a LA based brand that creates non-toxic products that nourish the skin. This cleanser is aloe based and 75% organic. It has coconut milk and jojoba oil. It is in a gel form and has a pleasant scent. It is very gentle and cleanses the skin well; however, I don’t use it when I have a lot of make up on my face because I feel I need something stronger. I love how much it actually hydrates my skin. It doesn’t only cleanse it and removes all the dirt, but it also hydrates it and makes it look fresher and calmer afterwards. Such a nice, organic cleanser!

Laura Mercier Ambre and Vanille body soufflé

I got Laura Mercier’s Sweet Temptations Ambre and Vanille holiday set because I was very excited to try the body products. Everybody is raving about how lovely they are, so when I saw the holiday set, I just had to get it. I am not going to mention the entire set, as there will be a review about it up soon, but I have to admit that the body lotion is my favorite product. I absolutely love it! It has an amazing scent that makes me feel like I am a vanilla cookie, and it deeply moisturizes my skin. It has a thick texture therefore, you don’t need a lot. Its scent lingers for a couple of days on my skin which is wonderful. This body soufflé is just perfect. From the scent to the feeling, it is amazing. I know for sure that once I finish it I will repurchase the full size.

Topshop Betty Star boots

I am not going to talk a lot about those boots because there will be a review of them up the blog soon. I got the Topshop Betty Star boots only recently but I am in love with them already. The heel height is perfect for me for every day and for a casual night out as well. I love how they are simple but the golden stars in the back add some spice to them. They are basic black ankle boots but with a twist. I have worn them twice so far and I love them! Stay tuned for a more thorough review J

H&M nail polish in Red Over Heels shade

You guys already know how much I love H&M’s new nail polishes. I have a whole review of them where I am raving about how fast they dry and how long the last (see review). For the holidays I wanted a true red color, so I can be a little festive myself. I went for the Red Over Heels shade, because it is a lovely deep, yet not too dark, red. It doesn’t have any orange undertone. I was so happy with my choice. They nail polish was lovely like all the H&M ones and it was perfect for the holiday season. I don’t usually go for red nails but I was so happy I did this year!

YSL Rouge pur Couture lipstick in the shade 201

I got this lipstick in a magazine, so I didn’t purchase it myself. I never had a YSL lipstick so I didn’t have an opinion about them. I was happy to find that the lipstick was in a bright red shade, because red is one of my favorite lip colors. The shade itself is quite lovely; bright red with orange undertone. Something I don’t really have. I tried it on and I was surprised at how lovely it looks. It’s creamy and moisturizing, which I really like, since my lips are quite dry. It is matte with a satin finish. It didn’t sit in my lip lines and it lasted for a quite a while. I really love this lipstick, as it is festive and the sample size of it is just too cute! I am very pleasantly surprised with this YSL lipstick, because I liked the texture, the color and the longevity. Also it has a rose scent. Highly recommend the YSL Rouge pur Couture lipstick!

I was so blessed to get my hands on some amazing things on December. I absolutely love each and every thing mentioned in this post. From the bag and the shoes to the lipstick and the body lotion, all these products are simply wonderful. They stole my heart on December and they earned their place in my monthly favorites list. I recommend them all. Don’t forget to pop over my Instagram (@blueberrylover) and Twitter (@vickyinlalaland) and say hello! With 2015 gone, I am very excited for what 2016 has in store! Happy New Year to everyone with lots of love!

Till next time take care dolls 😉 xxx

Vicky

December 17, 2015 - crazyandfashionable 2 Comments

THE GIFT OF GODDESS – HOLIDAY SET REVIEW

Hello guys! Being sick for a few days now has really brought down my mood, however, this weekend I received something I have been dying to try out since the end of November; Charlotte Tilbury’s “The Gift of Goddess” skin holiday set. You all may know by now that I am quite a skin care hoarder. I love skin care products probably more than makeup ones. The reason for that is that with skin care products you don’t just enhance your characteristics and your natural beauty, but you can actually improve your imperfections or any problems your skin may have. Skin care products are a huge addiction for me, especially moisturizers and face cleansers. I just love trying different brands and see what they have to offer.

Charlotte Tilbury is a very renowned makeup artist who works with many celebrities. I have heard so many amazing things about her makeup and skin care products so I have been longing to try some for quite a while. When I am not sure about a brand, I prefer to try a sample first before I invest in a full size product. Holiday sets are the perfect way to get to know a brand and try many different products. Therefore, when her holiday sets came out I really wanted to get one. I picked “The Gift of Goddess” skin set, because the products included are the ones I really wanted to get. The set has 3 products and is 15 ml each. It has Charlotte’s Magic Cream, which is a moisturizer, the Wonderglow, which is an illuminating cream like a highlighter, and the Goddess Skin Clay Mask, which obviously is a mask.

Charlotte’s Magic Cream is absolutely lovely. It is a moisturizing cream with SPF 15 so you can wear it in the daytime. I have been wearing it in the nighttime as part of my before-sleep routine. My skin is quite dry recently because of the cold weather and I need a good moisturizer. This cream is simple lovely. It smells amazing, like roses and gardenia, is thick enough but it is absorbed easily by the skin and it is spreadable, which means you only need a small quantity to cover the entire face. So although it is 15 ml, it will last for a while. I really enjoy using this cream and I do feel my skin moisturized. However, the best part is how soft my skin feels next morning. It is smooth like a baby’s butt. I absolutely recommend it.

The Goddess Skin Clay mask is a mask that lifts, smooths, brightens your skin and tightens your pores. I have used the mask twice so far and I am not very sure how I feel about it. It has the same lovely scent as the cream and it is very easy to apply on your skin. Because you need a thick layer in order to have some results, the 15 ml may not last for as long as the cream. It has a nice feel to it and it is easy to remove with a warm cloth. I love how my skin is soft and smooth afterwards and it does look a little brighter however, I can’t really tell if it lifts the skin and tightens the pores. I believe if it is used for a longer period, you might get all the mentioned results, but just after a couple of times I didn’t get everything promised. Hence I am unsure how I feel about it. I am not dissatisfied, but it is more like one of these products that don’t really wow you. It is a nice mask, smells good and is quite rehydrating. It feels lovely and it brightens the skin a bit. I am glad I got a 15 ml sized tube to check it out before I splurge on the big one.

Lastly, the Wonderglow is a very promising product but I don’t believe I fully understood what it is when I first put it on. I was under the impression it is a sort of metallic highlighting primer, like Benefit’s High Beam but as a primer. You can use the product under your foundation, over your foundation or just on its own on a makeup free face. Once I applied it though, I realized it is a shimmery product. It has a beige color which dissolves once you apply it, and it is very shimmery. I don’t like shimmer on my skin a lot especially on an everyday basis. I made the mistake to apply it to my entire face which stressed me out because I didn’t want to have shimmer on my forehead and chin. The shimmer however, is quite discrete, so I am confused as to what the product really does; if the shimmer is barely seen then I don’t understand what’s the point of it. Plus I can only apply shimmer on my cheeks, otherwise it’s going to look tacky a bit. So this product is very confusing to me and I didn’t really enjoy it.

“The Gift of Goddess” skin set by Charlotte Tilbury, is a lovely holiday set for anyone who has never used the brand before. The products are a great introduction to the brand’s skincare line. The size is quite small for the money you pay ( 50 euro ) but compared to the price for the full-sized ones it’s a good deal. Overall the products are quite nice, with the Magic Cream the set’s hit. I recommend this set for anyone who wants to try the brand out plus it would make a lovely Christmas present. Have you guys tried any of these products and if so what do you think about them? Don’t forget to pop over Instagram (@blueberrylover) and Twitter (@vickyinlalaland) to say hi.

Till next time take care dolls 😉 xxx

Vicky

December 5, 2015 - crazyandfashionable Leave a comment

NOVEMBER FAVORITES

November and autumn – which is my favorite season – might be gone, but December has set in, with Christmas just around the corner. Since it’s the end of the month, I have done a roundup of my most loved and used products! This is so exciting, as it is also my first “monthly favorites” post and I can’t wait to share with you guys everything that really got in my heart this month. I am going to mention not only my beauty favorites, but also my fashion ones as well as some random things!

Beauty – Skincare – Hair care

As a nail polish hoarder, I fell in love with H&M new nail polishes (see full review). Reinventing its beauty department, H&M came up with a new nail polish line, which looks higher end than their usual nail polishes and is a bit more expensive. However, they are absolutely amazing! I am completely converted. They are easy to apply, they dry in merely 5 minutes and they last for a little over a week with minor chipping. Also they so shiny you don’t even need to apply a top coat. I can’t say enough good words about them! I have already got 6 colors and I intend to get more, since the variety is huge!

I absolutely love Burberry’s Velvet foundation (see full review). It is very light and watery, so it is easy to apply and has a sheer, velvet finish. It blends in to my skin in such an easy way, that I can’t even tell I am wearing anything. I really love the sheer finish, especially for every day casual makeup because it doesnt burnden my skin. This foundation has by far the sheerest coverage I have seen. I love how the shade I have has a rosy undertone which is perfect for my pale, pinkish skin. In total, it is a wonderful foundation, perfect for those who seek something sheer and light.

Another makeup monthly favorite is my Anastasia Beverly Hills clear brow gel. Up until recently I was using either a pencil or a shadow for my eyebrows. Lately though, I started using my ABH sample sized clear brow gel and I am in love. I know it is just a clear gel but I love how it sets my eyebrows in a perfect way. They look naturally full and groomed and you can’t see the imperfections and sparse areas.

I got Lancôme’s Renergie Lift Multi Action from a magazine and I decided to give it a try. I am so glad i did! It is amazing. Although it has anti-aging properties, for me it does wonders in moisturizing my skin. It is quite thick, almost like butter and it is absorbed instantly from the skin. I find my face so smooth the following morning and it looks clear and bright. I am very surprised with this cream and very happy I came across it. It is part of my nighttime routine now!

Moroccanoil hair treatment (see full review) is my holy grail! I had heard so many great things about it that I decided to give it a go. This product is simply amazing. I use only a pump for my entire hair and it makes my hair incredibly soft. Also my hair is easier to detangle. I am so shocked at how good this product is. All these reviews weren’t lying. You only need a little bit and your hair will be so nourished, soft and shiny. Definitely a favorite!

Fashion

My Public Desire over the knee boots (see full review) is my favorite pair of shoes for this month. They are so comfortable and pretty. They have a lovely fit, even though they are a bit big around my thighs, and they look so sexy. I love over the knee or thigh high boots. They look good with everything, either jeans or skirts and dresses, and they can be worn for a casual look or a fancier nighttime one. So perfect!

I absolutely love this ASOS black and red checkered coat. It is so pretty and because it has a biker jacket style, there is a rock vibe to it that I find very cool. I love how it’s black but the red checkered lines are so discreet. It is woollen so it’s very warm and has huge pockets which is perfect for when I am lazy and I don’t want to carry a bag with me. Also the detachable black furry collar makes it even cooler and warmer, plus it adds some sophistication which is perfect for the nighttime.

These H&M jumpers are simply amazing. I love how they are so long that can be worn with leggings or opaque tights alone. They are very warm but not woolen (wool itches my skin). Also they have the distressed detail at the bottom which adds some spice to the otherwise ordinary jumper. I have both of the colors they come in: grey and white-grey. They are so flattering and perfect for winter!

Lifestyle

I am a proper book-worm! I love reading books more than watching movies because while I am reading a book, I become creative and built the stories and the characters in my head. I feel like I am living the story myself. Although I have over 50 unread books in my library, I just can’t stop buying new ones. I am a book-addict! Lately I have been reading the 7 Letters from Paris book and I like it a lot. It is a romantic novel about a woman who met the love of her life at Paris and let him go. 20 years later, after a failed marriage, she goes back to Paris to find that one love and apologize to him! I am a sucker for love stories, what can I say! I recommend this book to all the romantic souls out there!

I absolutely love my Diptyque Violette candle (see full review). I don’t have much to say, since I already have a post raving about it, but this has to be the best candle I have ever used. Like it is amazing! It has a powdery, discreet scent that makes me feel calm and happy. I loved this so much, that I actually finished it in merely a month and repurchased it immediately!

I am so excited to share all the things I loved this past month with you guys. Either they are makeup and skin care or fashion and lifestyle, those things took a special place in my heart and made November a much better month for me! Do you have any of the things mentioned above and if so how do you feel about it? I would love to hear from you guys and also don’t forget to pop over Instagram (@blueberrylover) and Twitter (@vickyinlalaland) and say hi!

Till next time take care dolls 😉 xxx

Vicky