As we are coming into the summer months my work clothes are too thick and ‘winter-like’ for this hotter weather.
I want to re-vamp my work wardrobe but need advice on styles and great places in the UK to shop….
Come on ladies… What are your suggestions?
Harriet
XOXO
Horse racing isn’t really my cup of tea but when I was kindly invited by intu Lakeside I jumped at the chance. I’d never been to Ascot or anything of the sort, and hearing a lot of buzz around these types of events, especially in the beauty world, I thought it would be crazy to let this opportunity slip past. Surprisingly I already had a few special dresses hanging in my closet that I knew would go perfect for this kind of event, so all that I had to worry about was my hair and make up!
On a beautiful Thursday afternoon I found myself arriving at the Chelmsford race course for the Ladies Day event, where I quickly realised the effort everyone had gone to, to make this day perfect. The staff were all just as well presented as the guests, the place was immaculate and the weather was stunning. Walking into the grounds I was met by several different stands from companies such as Pimms, Love that Hat, Elms boot camp and, of course, intu Lakeside.
intu Lakeside had got together a beautiful range of dresses from all different companies that are situated in the centre and brought along some fantastic make-up artists from Dior House of Fraser. Now, I have been going to intu Lakeside on a regular basis, it is probably considered my hub of retail therapy, but after all these years even I was still ignorant to the services that they offer. After spending around 20 minutes speaking to Carlene, I was advised about the stylist service that intu Lakeside provides to its customers if and when they require help. She explained to me the 9, yes 9, different packages that intu Lakeside offer to its shoppers. The packages are detailed, consistent and cover all your fashion worries. If you’re a new mum and need clothing that is appropriate yet still young and fun then Carlene has you covered. Or if you are still trying to figure out what ‘smart casual wear’ is, then Carlene has the answer for you! Carlene explained her approach and technique she has when giving you style advice and her vibe was completely friendly and welcoming. Let’s face it, having another woman, or man for that matter, looking at your body shape, the current clothes you’re wearing and judging your overall appearance is down right unnerving, but Carlene’s approach is refreshing and allows you to be honest with yourself. I have booked a stylist session with the beautiful Carlene, once I have spent the day with her and got all the facts about the sessions offered I will write a full, detailed blog post so you have all the information you need.
After hearing about some of the services that intu Lakeside has to offer, I spent some time with the lovely girls from Dior House of Fraser. They gave my lips some much needed attention, topped up my perfume, gave me a foundation match for the Dior Star foundation and booked me in with their regional make up artist. I also received a goody bag with samples like the Diorshow Mascara with its initiative locking packaging to stop drying.
—Intu Lakeside also offered a wealth of brochures, showing all the services they offer including the customer lounger situated in the Central Atrium level 1. The customer lounger offers the perfect shopping retreat where you can pick up gift cards, click collect & return, centre information, free WiFi, Concierge service, free phone charging with more to come.
The rest of my day was filled with spending time around the Chelmsford Race course which was beautiful and immaculate! I really enjoyed the fashion and beauty from not only the women but men as well! Thank you to Intu Lakeside (Voice Communications) for inviting me along to an amazing day!
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intu Lakeside Information
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Dior Stand
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Dresses from shops found in Lakeside
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My Favourite dress…
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My Make up Look!
Did you know all about the services at Intu Lakeside?
Did anyone of you go to the Chelmsford Races Day?
Harriet
XOXO
I recently got my hands on this lip paint and I am so glad I did. I am growing increasingly fond of W7 and the way they are able to create such great products at low prices. I know I sound like an advertisement here, but it’s true! I can’t stress enough how important it is for all us bloggers to reveal hidden, under hyped brands and bring them to light. Within my time blogging I have already confessed my love for W7’s primers and palette’s, now I am bringing you a review on their lip paint….which I didn’t even know existed.
If you know me, or read my blogs regularly you will have come to understand that although I love makeup, I am not really a lipstick person. Something I am trying to change. It really impresses me that adding on, even a nude lipstick, can change your entire look. My favourite thing about lipstick is that you can go to work looking fresh faced and relatively neutral, then add a bright pink or red lip to spice it up for an evening out.
I had been at work all day, I was a little oily (nothing a little blotting couldn’t fix) and my look was a little too neutral for my liking. It was perfect for work, I looked super fresh and fuss free but I wanted to add a little something something. The W7 lip paint in Girlie was recently added to my collection and I thought to myself, ‘I haven’t tried this bad boy yet, lets give it a go’. Boy… was I impressed. Now, hold on to your hats here girls because it is very pigmented. They don’t call it paint for nothing. It really does what it says on the tube, its like painting your lips. How adequately named aye!
The first (well second after its pigmentation) thing I noticed about this lip product, is its smell/taste. It is really minted, which sort of comes in handy. Having a product that smells like mint near your mouth. The scent is quite strong, so if you’re not a fan of mint… I would think about that before purchasing, but after a while you get used to it. 
The consistency and texture of this lip product is suuuuuuuper smooth and glides on perfectly. Due to its bright colour and high pigmentation I wouldn’t recommend applying straight from the tube, which may cause an issue if you’re on the go or need to reapply. Using a lip brush is the way forward, you can get a precise line and avoid mistakes.
The wear time for this product is pretty impressive, I won’t lie, you do need to top up – but hey, who is perfect these days???
Overall, I really recommend this product and if you fancy giving it a go click the link here
Check out my previous blogs on W7 products
Have you tried any W7 products?
What are your favourite W7 Products?
Have you tried any lip paint?
XXXX
One of my favourites eyeshadow palettes I own is W7 ‘In the Buff’, so I was really excited to get the smokey shades of ‘In the Night’ palette which offers colours that can add a little more drama to your look.
First off, lets talk about the packaging. I am already familiar with the packaging of the W7 palettes and have to say I really love it. It is a little on the chunky side for the amount of product but its neat, tidy and keeps the colours protected. The palette holds 12 glitter shadows ranging from pink to grey/blue tones. I would admit that this palette is geared towards looks for a night out but I wore a grey smoky eye running chores today and it didn’t feel too over the top. On swatching these shades, I found they are really smooth and I was pleased to say they were on application too. When using these shadows I found the fallout to be minimal!
From left to right: Dusty, Wonderland, Summer, Atlanta, Abracadabra, Top Hat, Razzamataz, Lady Luck, Laura E, Party Popper, Gate Crash and Bologna.
This is the first look I have created using this palette. The pigmentation of these colours are fantastic, the glitter isn’t too intense and just a little goes a long way. Using Party Popper, Gate Crash and Bologna I was able to create a look that is smoky yet wearable for everyday.
To create this look I applied ‘Party Popper’ all over the lid. I used ‘Gate Crash’ to add a smoky feel by packing close to the lash line, not going above my crease. ‘Bologna’ is perfect to intensify the look as it only has a little shimmer. To blend all these colours together, to make sure there are no harsh lines, I used a large fluffy brush, dipped into Party Popper and run that over my entire lid. Top Tip: Use tape when applying eyeshadow, it allows you to create a really sharp look!
Upon first impressions, W7 has managed to keep up their great standards for affordable prices with this palette. The shadows apply smoothly with high pigmentation that rivals higher end brands like Urban Decay. I can’t wait to get my hands on the other palettes, I think I will try out ‘Lightly toasted’ and ‘In the nude’ next. I will be continuing to use this palette and create more looks for you.
Check out my review of the W7 Primers
Go check out more W7 products by clicking this link > HERE
Have you tried any W7 products?
Are there any palettes I should try?
Thank you for reading
XXXX
Barry M do some really great nail polishes, one of them is ‘293 Grey’ which I am wearing in the photos below! Two coats of this polish and you’re good to go, it also stays chip free for a good few days.
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I’ve been bad and stolen this tag from Jen (Aka Dorkchops), I really enjoyed reading her blog but especially this tag so thought I would answer the questions myself.
So lets get started….
1. What is your middle name?
Its Anne… it sounds very English I know.
2. What was favourite subject at school?
French… I loved french! I love the sound of the french language.
3. What is your favourite drink?
I don’t really have a favourite if I am honest, I normally just drink water.
4. What is your favourite song at the moment?
I don’t listen to newer music really, my favourite song is Jon Secada just another day.
5. What is your favourite food?
I love strawberries, ice cream and chocolate!
6. What is the last thing you bought?
I bought pancake mix on the way home from work and I have eaten three already!!!!!!!
7. Favourite book of all time? our?
Memoirs of a Geisha!!
9. Do you have any pets?
Yes! I have two dogs – an Australian silky terrier named Rambo and a German shepherd named Viva. I also have a lot of fish everywhere LOL – my Dad loves them.
10. Favourite perfume?
I have three dogs. They are all Jack Russells, Louie, Ted and Ozzie 🙂 Check out my ‘sharing memories’ post to see photos of them 🙂
11. Favourite holiday?
My favourite holiday was to Mexico last year with my boyfriend and our friends. We spent 2 weeks in a luxury hotel to really celebrate me graduating and getting a new job 🙂
12. Are you married?
Nope, I am not married but I have been with my boyfriend for nearly four years and we are moving in together next year 🙂
13. Have you ever been out of the country, if so how many times?
I have been out of the country lots of times! Last year alone I was out of the country six times.
14. Do you speak any other language?
Fluent English (….obviously) and conversational French!
15. How many siblings do you have?
I am lucky to have two beautiful older sisters.
16. What is your favourite shop?
When I want to buy makeup I always go to Boots and for clothes its Newlook.
17. Favourite restaurant?
I don’t really have a favourite, I do love Bella Italia though.
18. When was the last time you cried?
Oooooooh, I don’t think I have cried in a long long time… I sound so heartless!
19. Favourite blog?
There are so many I love, I wouldn’t want to choose just one!
20. Favourite movie?
Ooooh, I love the notebook! Who doesn’t love Ryan Gosling.
21. Favourite TV shows?
Gossip Girl, Friends and Sex and the City.
22. PC or Mac?
I am a PC girl, I just don’t like Mac computers but I love everything else they do!!!
23. What phone do you have?
Iphone… which is smashed on both sides.
24. How tall are you?
5’3.. I am tiny!!!
25. Can you cook?
I can just about make pancakes… haha!
TAG YOU’RE IT!
I hope you enjoyed reading my answers and please tag yourself.
Thank you for reading
XXXX
“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous” – Coco Chanel
This perfume right here was my first Chanel I had ever got my hands on. Rewind back to 4th of August, my birthday, and specifically 2014 when I turned 21. I had spent the day with my family and boyfriend in London, shopping, drinking and generally having an amazing time. Looking around the Chanel store, I decided I would treat myself to a bottle of perfume.
If you have ever been inside a Chanel store you will now how luxurious they are and it makes you want to buy everything, but sadly I had to limit myself to just one item. Coco Mademoiselle is a sweet yet sophisticated scent perfect for the younger woman. It screams class yet is still fun enough that you don’t seem serious. You are probably thinking how can a perfume make you seem sophisticated? Oh, but it can! I wear this perfume when I want to impress, add the extra glamour or when I am feeling like I need a little pick me up. It is perfect for a date night, which is when I wear it most.
It is a little expensive starting at around £68… but a girl needs to treat herself (or be treated) once in a while. And I believe everybody needs a little Chanel in their life.
Coco Mademoiselle goes best with a smoky eye, LBD, killer heels and a date 😉
Everyone needs this!
Photo curtesy of bellefemmedubai
I hope this helps!
XXXX
I don’t think that it matters how many times you are nominated with one of these awards, it always brings a smile to my face. Thank you BellaNinaBeauty for the nomination. I’ve got some really great tips from this blog so I would highly recommend you go an check it out. I especially love their review of the Nume curling wands.
Here are the questions that they set and here are my answers:
1.) If you could go out with only one makeup product on, what would it be?
Either a little foundation/concealer or do my brows. Tbh, I often go out without anything on
2.) You would never get caught dead wearing……?
Kitten heels!
3.) If you could tell your child/baby self anything, what would it be?
It will all work out in the end 🙂
4.) What is your beauty goal/dream?
To be able to become the ultimate eyeshadow blenderer (is that a word?)
5.) If you could describe your style in one word, what would it be?
Clean and simple!
6.) What’s your favorite nail polish color?
Any nude!
7.) What makeup product do you regret wearing/buying?
Garnier BB cream… yuck!
8.) If you could wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
Chanel
9.) Who is your beauty idol?
Audrey Hepburn
10.) What made you want to start your blog?
It is something I have wanted to do since I was about 15… nearly seven years later and here we are haha!
11.) What’s your favorite beauty trend? Least favourite?
Favourite: flawless skin… never goes out of fashion!
Least: Overly large/thick fake eyelashes… oh no!
Thank you again for my nomination
I hope you enjoyed reading my answers!
XXXX
Hey,
So I mentioned in a previous post that I was going to start making videos and creating a YouTube account, well I have taken quite possibly the biggest step forwards in doing this. It is something I have always wanted to do so this year is the year. Today I gave myself a Valentines treat (and after a rough week) and bought a Canon DSLR, I will create a post/video on everything about it so stay tuned for that.
Today has been about messing around with the camera, and I did do a little video of me doing my mums make up which I will edit and post tomorrow (hopefully) so, again, stay tuned for that!
Having three beautiful dogs, I always take photos of them anyway so obviously the first thing I did was starting snapping photos of them. Here is one of my little Ozzy…..
Thank you for reading
Please follow for more blogs
XXXX
Hey Lovelies,
Being beauty freaks like myself, I am sure that you have heard of IMATS. For those you aren’t familiar, it is the international make-up trade show which I believe is held once a year in London, Sydney, Toronto, LA, New York and Vancouver. It allows brands to promote themselves and their products within the beauty industry. It’s a great place for make up artists and make up lovers alike to go, check out the brands and grab some great products.
I have never been to IMATS, but would love to go this year. I would love the idea of setting up a meet with fellow bloggers from in UK as I would be attending the London show! Has anyone ever been? Are you going?
Thank you for reading
Please follow for more blogs
XXXX
Recently I have been on a lipstick frenzy. I haven’t been much of a lipstick person, I feel like its a high maintenance aspect of your make up look. That being said, popping on a bit of lipstick can take your make up to the next level, which is something I would obviously want to do. Being one of my favourite body product brands I thought they would be a good place to check out some lipsticks. After perusing the stand for a while, I went for the Soap&Glory Super-Colour Fabu Lipstick in Naked Beige.
— The Colour —
This colour is stunning, its brown with a redish undertone which makes it absolutely gorgeous on any skin colour and goes with every makeup look! It glides on smoothly, doesn’t dry or crumble either.
— It’s Wear Time —
Now, I seem to have an issue with all lipsticks, in that they never seem to wear very well, and although this doesn’t last all day it lasts better than others. I think this colour looks great on its own, it doesn’t require high maintenance as its a dark shade of lip colour. You can swipe this on before school or work and not worry about touch ups, when it does fade it slowly reveals your natural lip colour through without being obvious. If you’re the type who wants to look like you’re wearing lipstick, then by all means you may have to reapply, but the beauty of this lipstick is that you don’t have to. You might think that £9 is a little steep for drug store lippy, but you wont be disappointed. If you have ever tried one of S&G’s products, you will know they make good stuff!
You can wear this colour in the office, at home, for a night out and on a date. It’s sophisticated and yet youthful at the same time. You can wear this with a dramatic eye or keep it really clean and simple with just a few swipes of mascara.
— The Packaging —
I have always loved S&G’s packaging, its iconic and to be honest a bit of a show stopper. I love the 40’s/50’s era and (correct me if I am wrong) but I believe that’s what they’re packaging is inspired by. Its got that retro yet girly feel that really appeals to me, and its clearly working for them. This lipstick is a little more on the cleaner side, I guess when you’re trying to keep the price down their isn’t too much space you can use to create an elaborate design. The design isn’t quite the eye catching S&G packaging that I am used to, but it’s pretty and sleek.
I often find that when I chuck a lipstick in my bag, the lid comes off and bye bye lipstick… and the inside of my bag. The packaging of this lipstick is quite sturdy and seems to be holding on well.
The down side with this lipstick is that when you do apply it, although it goes on smoothly, its quite thick and I feel really concious that I am wearing lipstick.
I would recommend this colour and lipstick in general 🙂
Thank you for Reading
Please Follow for more posts
XXXX
Hello you beautiful people, I have stolen (cheeky) this tag from the lovely Jen. Hopefully by the end of this tag you will get to know me a little better 🙂 Ohh and tag, you’re it!!!
Do you remember your first makeup item?
Being make up obsessed, it’s a shock (and I am a little ashamed) that I can’t remember my first make up item… sorry!
Describe your perfect mascara. Have you found one that fits your specifications?
My eyelashes are long, but go straight out, so my perfect mascara would be one that thickens and can hold a curl better.
What kind of coverage do you prefer from foundation?
I am not going to lie, I want to cover those scars and pimples, I am a medium to full coverage kinda girl!!!!!
Favourite high end brand?
I like Urban Decay and Mac
What cosmetic brands have you always wanted to try but still haven’t?
YSL
Favourite drugstore brand?
Tooooooooooooooooo many to choose from. I love MUA, Make up Revolution, Soap & Glory, W7 and Rimmel.
Do you wear fake eyelashes?
I am RUBBISH with fake eyelashes, I only wear them on special occasions.
Is there any kind of makeup you can’t leave the house without?
Surprisingly, I do often go out without make up on. But I think you can always look more ‘put together’ with a little brow grooming and a dash of under eye concealer.
What is your most cherished beauty product?
Probably foundation… nothing beats a flawless canvas.
How often do you shop for makeup? Do you like to pick up an item here and there or get lots of goodies at once?
Too often! Its becoming a problem!
Do you have a “beauty budget” or you spend freely?
I try to stick to a budget, trying to save for a house an all, but if I really want something I find a way to justify buying it (oops)
What type of product do you buy the most of?
Concealer… it’s an issue!
Do you avoid certain ingredients in cosmetics like parabens or sulfates?
I really should pay more attention to this sort of thing because it may cause breakouts but I don’t!
Do you have a favorite place to shop for makeup?
Boots and bigger department stores like House of Fraser or Debenhams.
Do you like trying new skincare products or do you keep a certain routine?
I stick with what I know…
Favourite bath and body brand?
Soap&Glory allllllll the way. Lush is great too!!!
Do you like multifunctional products like lip and cheek stains?
I would actually say that I don’t really own any multifunctional make-up products.
Are you clumsy in putting makeup?
Sometimes, I can be very sloppy. Especially if its 6:30am and I am rushing to get to work.
Do you ever consider taking makeup classes?
I would love to, I have never been to one. However there are so many great YouTubers out there that teach me so much… for free 😉
What do you love about makeup?
It’s like art I suppose, it allows you to be creative and what better way to show off your artwork on your face.
I hope you have enjoyed reading.
Please follow for more blogs
XXXX
Photo curtesy of younique by arnetrice
Beauty By Harriet 
