Catch Up - It's been too long!

Hey! Long time no see lovelies, As many of you will already know, I'm a student and naturally as the academic year comes to an end I've had so much work to do. I've had an exam and lots of coursework so with portfolio's and essays coming out of my ears I decided to put blogging on hold till my deadlines had passed. 

I've missed writing for you guys so much and so just one day after my last deadline, I'm back! I've had lots going on outside all my work which include a lot of stressful things and a couple of lovely things just to balance it all out! 

I'm finally back home for the summer and it's so lovely getting to spend so much time with my family and my boyfriend, One of my best friends got engaged which was just amazing and I've had a great time catching up with my friends this past couple of weeks in between finishing and submitting work. 

I recently started my Slimming World diet too and I've been really enjoying it, weigh in isn't till tomorrow so I'm not sure how I've done yet but I've been sticking to it religiously and I've been loving trying out all the new recipes, maybe an idea for a post soon?

My skin has been so bad since moving back home, I thought maybe it was the change in water? Or is that a silly suggestion? My usual skincare just isn't clearing it up, if any of you have any suggestions for really dry skin and breakouts then let me know because it's driving me mad!! 

Now I have so much more time on my hands again there will be at least 3 posts a week, maybe even more if I get a spare evening. 

Don't forget to comment with your skincare tips to save a poor bloggers life!

LOVE

Leesha

xx

Haul - Beauty and Stationary

This was one of those shopping trips that was supposed to cost me a few pounds for my train fare and a few pounds for my dinner. I had every intention of window shopping. I just happened to pop into the Apple store and the customer service that I received annoyed me that much that I made an angry impulse purchase (or 2...or 3).

Urban Decay - Naked Palette- £37

I had been pondering over the Naked palettes for so long. I had never actually made the plunge because my tight budget had always stopped me in my tracks but my friend was buying it and I just couldn't stop myself this time. I tried to justify it as an early birthday present. A month early isn't too much right? I also may have ordered the Naked 2 last night. Oops!! 

Emma Hardie - Natural Lift and Sculpt Body Treatment - £20

After trying out the cleansing balm I just needed this in my life. I have been looking for something to sort out the skin on the tops of my arms and my legs for what seems like forever and nothing has ever been quite what I was looking for so hopefully this will do the trick! I cannot believe that I got this for £20 in TK Maxx when it's usually priced at £46. Such a bargain! I will be posting a review in the next couple of weeks so keep your eyes peeled!

Sleek - Blush by 3 - Lace - £9.99

I have been lusting after this for honestly about 2 years. The Superdrug near me doesn't have a sleek stand so whenever I go out for the day I always go in and swatch it before telling myself that I don't need it and regretting it for well, 2 years as it happens. I absolutely love the coral colours in this palette and I just know that it will be perfect for summer! 

Elizabeth Arden - New York In Bloom Bold Eye Pencil - Platinum Glow - £6.00

TK Maxx always seem to have products from this collection and I never seem to find anything that I really like. However, I came across this Eye Pencil today and it's such an amazing colour. I think that it will be really versatile and I can't wait to have a play around with it and work out how to use it best. 

Paperchase Scrapbook - £10

If any of you have seen Disney's 'Up' then you may understand the thought process that led to me purchasing this scrapbook. I always say that I want to start properly recording where I have been and keeping little bits and pieces but I never get round to it and I never really found a book that I really wanted to use. I know that you can buy the same book that is used in Up but I wanted something different and more me. I plan to dedicate half of it to where I have been and then it true Up style, I will dedicate the second half to all the adventures that I plan on going on either with my boyfriend or on my own. I will start a series when I've made up my first page which could be fun. 

Paperchase Set of 3 Notebooks - £6

I absolutely love the print on these books. The paper is such good quality and I love the fact that I can use a different notebook for each of my modules at Uni. I always like to have a different book for each and these are just perfect. I am a little obsessed with the new Paperchase lines and no doubt more items will be making an appearance here soon! 

Not bad considering my annoyance with Apple! I definitely could have spent a lot more after that trip! 

Have you tried any of these products? What did you think?

LOVE

Leesha

xx

2013 Beauty Favourites!!

Okay so I realise that this is very late! I figured better late than never right? I've been so busy moving back to uni after Christmas but I still wanted to share with you what I've loved this year. Once again, sorry for the awful photo! 

1. Benefit Dallas Bronzer

I have loved this bronzer for years, hence the smashed up box! I hit pan a while back but I'm gonna use it till there's absolutely nothing left. I'm not a fan of muddy coloured bronzer's which is probably why I wasn't a huge fan of NARS Laguna (I know shoot me!). It gives just the right amount of glow and shimmer and has pink undertones which I love! It's not ideal for contouring because of the shimmer but if your looking for a regular bronzer that will give you a natural glow then this is it! 

2. MAC Cremesheen Lipstick - Hang Up

It took me ages to actually take the plunge and buy this lipstick. I always tend to play it safe and go for nudes but I', so glad I bought it! The photo doesn't do it justice at all but its a deep plum colour, not too purple though and It doesn't look too deep if you apply it lightly so it's really versatile. It's been perfect for the autumn months.

3. Revlon Moon Candy Nail Art - 240, Eclipse

I absolutely love these duo's. The Full colours are so gorgeous and they apply really easily and dry quick which is good if you're like me and don't like waiting! The glitter topcoats are thick too with just the right amount of glitter. I didn't like the texture of the glitter, I like a smooth finish but other than that I can't complain. A week later and only a few chips. I have since picked up 2 new colours!!

4.  Real Techniques brushes

I couldn't even begin to name my favourite Real Techniques brush. I think Samantha Chapman is a genius to be honest! I have just included the Stippling Brush and the Powder Brush in the photo. I love the stippling brush for applying cream blushers. It's a match made in heaven! I never like applying cream blushers with my fingers because 1. I apply way too much and end up looking like a creepy doll and 2. It's an absolute pain to get off your hands and ends up everywhere! The fact I can stipple it onto my cheeks means that I get the perfect amount every time. The powder brush is also perfect. Not much to say other than the fact that you don't get overloaded in a stupid amount of cakey powder.

5. Benefit The Porefessional

This is advertised as a pore minimizer and that's what it does. Perfectly may I add. I only use a small amount in problem areas like my nose and chin. A little bit goes a long way and it has such a nice velvety texture. It's also advertised as a primer and this is where I have a problem with it. I have found that It can speed up the whole foundation slipping off your skin process rather than helping it stay put and my skin is fairly normal if not on the dry side so no oil there! If you only use a little where needed then that shouldn't be too much of a problem. Applying this all over your face will not make you look like Barbie, unfortunately. I absolutely love this product, as a pore minimizer and that's why it's in my favourites but I don't think it would have made it as just a primer.

6. The Body Shop Lip Butter - Shea Nut

Let me start by saying that this smells INCREDIBLE I had never tried anything from the Shea range up until this purchase and now I'm sold. I'm not a fan of the sweeter smelling products as I think they can get a bit sickly but this is just perfect for my life. I did notice that it really moisturised my lips and not just for 5 seconds after application. I put some on an hour ago and I can still feel it now! 

7. L'Oreal Shine Caresse Lip Colour - 101, Lolita

I bought this when they first came out and fell in love instantly. I love the packaging which feels very YSL without the student unfriendly price tag. I picked up Lolita which is a blush pink colour with rose gold highlights. The rose gold is very understated and doesn't give too much shine but does make your lips look really glossy without the sticky texture. One thing I would say is that it does dry my lips out a bit but I love the way it applies and the fact that it's so pigmented! I will definitely be picking up more colours.

8. Bedhead Tigi - EpicVolume Styleshots, Strawberry

I picked this up in TKmaxx for a cut price and didn't really expect much from it to be honest. I have fairly short hair and I've never been picky with conditioner, until now. I saw a side to haircare that I'd never seen before. I could finally style my hair without having to backcomb the life out of it and could use heat on my hair without looking like a lion! This really does volumise my hair and the bottle is so huge that I doubt I will run out for a long time.

9. Collection - Lasting Perfection Ultimate Wear Powder - 1 Fair

I remember back in the days when I used to use the Lasting Perfection foundation which I loved and still do love but never buy for some reason. The concealer is a famous beauty cult product and I had never really bothered with the powder as I always used Rimmel Stay Matte. I have since been converted. My skin Is a little dry and mattifying is never something I'm bothered about because my skin is usually matte enough even after foundation so I was just using the stay matte powder, well because everyone else was really. I don't usually think too much to powder apart from longevity and this one is definitely the winner. I can go out for the night and it will still leave my makeup looking acceptable without horrible patches. 

10. Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick - Kate Moss - 08

Okay so admittedly I have a stupid problem with the fact that Rimmel didn't name the Kate Moss lipsticks. It bothers me. Okay, got that out of the way. I have always liked the Lasting Finish lipsticks and I absolutely love Kate Moss so yeah I bought into that whole collaboration thing. The shade is perfect for my lip colour. I find that its just dark enough to not be a complete match but it's light enough to work with any look at all and I really love the fact that I can be in a rush and know that this one will work. It doesn't dry my lips out and as the name suggests, it has a lasting finish! I also really like the matte packaging. 

11. Diorskin Forever Foundation - 010

I had read a few reviews before switching from MAC Studio Fix and trust me, it was a hard transition. I just found that I was applying too much to get the coverage that I wanted and wanted to try a different brand altogether. I had been reading foundation reviews and hadn't really made a choice. I was walking past the Dior stand in Debenhams (does this review sound like a story?) and decided to try it out and asked the Lady at the desk about it. She kindly applied some for me and I loved it. I know it doesn't work for everyone, especially with oily skin but it gives me medium coverage, full if you build it up and stays on for as long as I need it to. I love the matte packaging and its also very luxurious which is of course to be expected from Dior. A little really does go a long way which is definitely nice given the price tag! 

Have you tried any of these products? What do you think?

LOVE

Leesha 

xx

Leesha Loves #2

Well I'm back with my second Leesha Loves posts and

the first post of 2014!! Happy new year everyone!

I was all ready to do a 2013 favourites post today and then realised that some of the things I wanted to put in it are at uni so I will have to get that done as soon as I get back! 

The 5 things I have been loving this week are...

1. Catching up with friends

Its been really nice this week to see my friends, especially now my best friend Chloe is back from her holiday. She leaves for the Navy in March so I'm trying to see her as much as I can before she goes! Can't believe it. We've been friends since we were about 4 and now she's off to the Navy. I'm so proud of her! Even if I will miss her like crazy!

2. Soft Hands

My hands absolutely hate winter. Every year I use different soap and different hand cream and nothing ever works no matter how much I spend! Soap and Glory Hand Food has always been one of those products that I tried once, probably when I didn't need it, figured it probably wasn't worth the hype and forgot about it soon after. However, it recently re-entered my life in a gift set that I got for christmas and I am so glad! It's fixing my hands and they smell amazing now too! Can't believe I ever forgot about it!

3. Feeling Fresh

Since I've been using my Nutribullet I have felt so much more healthy. Even just increasing the amount of fruit I eat and drinking more water has really helped and I feel a lot more alert and ready to face the day instead of feeling sluggish and tired all the time. 

4. Me Time

I only have a shower at uni and even at home I mostly just jump in the shower rather than having a bath.This week I decided to just scrap everything I had to do one evening and have a really nice, relaxing bath. I used Lush Products and tried out the James Brown Intense Treatment which I will be reviewing this week! It was nice to take some time out!

5. Straight(er) Hair!

My hair is currently at that stage where it wants to be long more than anything but it's not quite there. In fact, it's quite short. My hair is naturally straight but when it's growing it tends to flick out in the most random places and leave me looking like a bit of a Hairspray reject. My Dad bought my Mum the Nicky Clarke Frizz Control Styler for Christmas and although I wouldn't usually buy something like that for myself, the hot brush has really helped to tame my flicks! I also really like the straightening attachment because I feel like there's less direct heat that straighteners, especially when I don't really need them! 

I would love it if you could leave a comment and let me know even just 1 thing that you have been loving this week!

LOVE

Leesha 

xx

Goodbye 2013 - Hello 2014!

This is going to be a slightly different post for me. I'm aware of the fact that my followers probably don't know all that much about me, so I thought since I had a free afternoon, I would write a chit chat sort of post. I  wanted to round up 2013 in my little world and get ready to welcome in 2014 

A lot has happened this year and although there hasn't been anything major (apart from going to uni of course!) I feel like my life has changed a lot. Obviously I haven't seen my friends and family as much over the past few months and that's been a really weird change as I'm used to being at the most 10 minutes away from the people I love! I passed the 3 year mark with my boyfriend that just confirmed the seriousness of our relationship and suddenly it felt so real. Up until that point in August I did see us being together forever (soppy alert!) but it still felt kinda new. We went on our first holiday together in June and yes it was only Center Parcs but it was lovely to go away together and that was another first for us.  Next year it will be 4 years and theres something about that that seems so so much longer than 3!! 

Turning 19 was weird for me, I was so used to being 18 and I felt like it was a really fun age, plus I had really bad tonsillitis for my 19th birthday and ended up going to bed at about half 10 while all my friends carried on the party downstairs. Hopefully this years birthday will be a little more exciting for me!

As far as aims go for 2014 It's pretty simple. I want to become a much more successful blogger because I love it. I couldn't care how many followers or readers I have and although it's even so lovely to chat to some of you and I love reading your comments and replying! It's definitely the highlight of my day when I get to read through your lovely comments. Not only does it help me improve my blog and tailor what I'm writing to what you guys love but I also really like responding to your comments and checking out your blogs too! I like to get to know the people who are reading my posts! I would love to continue my Leesha Loves series and I'm hoping to fit in another series when I get back to uni. 

I would absolutely love to know if theres anything at all that you would like to see differently or any requests you have for the coming months. I'm always up for ideas and tips! 

I would also like to include more beauty reviews on my blog as again It's something that I really enjoy doing and I buy enough beauty products to be able to write as many as I can!

I need to get fit for July and that really doesn't seem like long enough! My own personal problems tend to get in the way a lot and I've been anywhere between a size 6 and a size 16 over the years! Who knows I might find a happy medium in 2014 and finally be happy with my body! That would definitely be nice! 

Then theres the simple things. I want to wear more lipstick, I would like to watch films that are outside my usual Rom Coms, British Drama's and the odd Blockbuster. I want to go for more walks and get more sleep. I want to grow my hair and always have my nails painted. 

I do want to start some sort of Love My Body series but I guess I'm half afraid of failing and then the whole series being ruined so I'm gonna have to have a think about that one. What do you guys think?

I have a lot of posts already planned for January so keep your eyes peeled and keep in touch! I will never stop loving receiving comments and emails from you guys. It blows my mind how anyone can care about what I write so I absolutely love talking to you all!

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

LOVE

Leesha 

xx

Review - L'Oreal Skin Perfection Micellar Solution

I stumbled across this when my usual Garnier make-up remover was out of stock in my local boots and was intrigued. I immediately thought of Bioderma and just had to see if it was up to the job. 

It claims to cleanse and tone while removing all make-up traces. I have to admit I was a little put off by this as I like to remove my makeup, cleanse using a hot cloth cleanser and then tone and moisturise so I felt like this was skipping the cleansing part as I like to feel like I am actually washing my face.

Nevertheless that night I tried it out and I was pleasantly surprised. My eye makeup did come off fairly easily, it took a few cotton pads but I'm putting that down to the copious amounts of mascara I have to wear to make my lashes even visible! I felt like it really did clean my face and left it feeling smooth without any sticky residue. It uses teeny tiny droplets of oil distributed within soft water so there is no oily feel to the product and I don't feel like a slimy mess after using it which is definitely nice!

It claims to unclog pores and although my face did feel clean I was still a little lost without my hot cloth cleanser. I think with a bit of reworking I can probably fit my usual cleanser into my routine alongside the Micellar solution because I am really pleased with how it removed my make-up.

The next morning I didn't notice any breakouts or redness so I'm assuming all is well on that front. I've read that it can breakout some people with very sensitive skin which is a shame because it does claim to be friendly towards sensitive skin. My skin isn't too sensitive but I do try to use sensitive products just in case. 

Overall, although for me it will take some getting used to as I am a woman of routine, I do think that it's a high quality product and ticks all the boxes for a make-up remover. I am still skeptical about the cleanse and tone as it will be a tough change for me but I do feel like it will be a great alternative for those nights when you just can't be bothered with your whole routine.

You can find it here!

Let me know what you thought if you tried this out!

LOVE

Leesha 

xx

Leesha Loves #1

I was undecided as to when this little series was gonna start to be honest but I figured (somehow?) that now was the right time! 

My little aim is to write a weekly post letting you know 5 things that I've loved about that week. Since I post daily (unless I fancy a day off!) I thought a once a week thing would be cool.

(I might as well just write everything in brackets at this point!)

There isn't going to be a set theme, it's simply going to be things, people, anything that I have LOVED that week and after christmas I will be using my own photo's! You have that in writing!!

1. FAMILY

This is a given to be honest, especially at this time of year but even more so now I'm at uni. I really appreciate every second that I have with them while I'm at home and it's so nice to have everyone together. I do miss my family members who live away at Christmas but we keep in touch and share photos etc so it's all good!

2.  SAVING MY SKIN

Garnier Moisture Match

If I'm completely honest, I wasn't expecting amazing things from this moisturiser but I was very pleasantly surprised!

The cold weather completely dries out my otherwise fairly normal skin and this has been a lifesaver! 

I use the pink one for dry skin but there are 4 other types for different things so you should definitely check it out!

3. WRAPPING UP WARM

I'm probably the only person that LOVES being cold! I absolutely love snuggling up with a duvet or a blanket or going for walks with my hat,gloves and scarf on. I do like the hot summer weather and trust me I cannot wait to go on holiday in July but I'm also enjoying the cold (for now anyway!) and I'm loving being able to wear my onesie in comfort instead of being too hot!

4. SILKY SOFT HAIR

I have completely rekindled my love with Bed Head conditioners and have started using the Styleshots Epic Volume Conditioner again. I have the huge one with the pump and it smells absolutely amazing! I walk out of the shower smelling like strawberries and my hair is so so soft!

I just LOVE it!

5. SLEEPING

I am so happy to be home from uni just so I can sleep!! I think the earliest I've got to sleep this term is 2:30 am. Either my flatmates are up having a good time and I feel like I need to go out and see what they are doing or I just lay there not being able to drift off. It's so annoying when you're up at 8 for a 9am lecture but it seems like such a good idea at the time! I'm finally falling asleep at a normal hour and loving it!

I'd LOVE to know what you've been loving this week!! Drop me a comment below and let me know what you're in LOVE with!

LOVE

Leesha

xx

The Christmas Tag

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

I've had such a long day Christmas Shopping and watching movies with my boyfriend so I figured I would have some fun doing this instead of a huge post. I'd love to see you're answers so link your blogs below!!!!

1. What is your favourite Christmas song?

This is a difficult one!!I would have to say Fairytale Of New York by The Pogues simply because i have so many memories of my mum and dad singing it when i was little.

2. Which is your favourite festive drink?

Oooooo in alcohol terms it would have to be Southern Comfort....I know its not a christmas drink per se but i mainly drink it at christmas. Non alcoholic would be simply hot chocolate. I never really drink that until christmas time but i love snuggling up watching a film with a nice Hot Chocolate! With marshmallows of course!

3. Do you have a favourite Christmas film?

Oh there are so many!! Elf is a definite. Christmas doesn't start till i've watched elf! Home Alone is definitely my favourite for just sitting and watching with my family and i always seem to watch Mary Poppins too!

4. What is at the top of your Christmas wish-list this year?

I have so many things on my list to Santa! I need the Naked 3 palette so badly! Erm...Marc Jacobs watch, Kate Spade purse, Pandora charms..we'll see how all that comes along in my Christmas Haul haha...I should be so lucky!!

5. What is your favourite festive makeup or nail art look?

I absolutely love glitter top coats for my nails and a deep red/purple lip. I also really love more metallic eyeshadows and if i'm heading out then a nice bit of glitter!!

6. What is your favourite outfit at Christmas time? (LBD? Christmas jumper? PJ's?)

Christmas for me is definitely time to be cosy and comfy! I love fluffy PJ's and big chunky knit jumpers! I don't actually own a Christmas Jumper (I know!!!) but i'm gonna have to invest in one! I love wearing sparkly dresses if i go out and dressing up a little bit on christmas day too!!

7. Would you rather play out in the snow or enjoy it from inside with the fire and a cuppa?

I love a bit of both to be honest. I'm the first to grab the sledges if it's snowing but after a long day i love curling up on the sofa with a hot drink, my boyfriend and my duvet! Bliss!

8. Wrapping presents - love or loathe? 

I can't lie..I LOVE wrapping! I wrap everything for my parents too. (apart from my presents of course!) I love wrapping everything in cute ribbons and bows It takes me ages but i just sit in front of the TV for hours!

9. What is your favourite Christmassy food? 

Mince Pies. I absolutely love Mince Pies. It's that simple.

10. What is your favourite thing about Christmas? 

Family time. My parents work really long hours and with my boyfriend and myself both being at uni i don't get to see his family much normally either so Christmas for me is all about spending loads of time with family and getting into the Christmas spirit. It's the most wonderful time of the year!

I tag you all!!!

LOVE

Leesha

xx

Catch up Part 1

Well after 7 long months i finally feel ready to start blogging again! What with A Levels, Uni offers and my first semester at uni now out of the way i can focus on what i enjoy!

I figured i would start off with a  few nice catch up posts to let you all know what I've been getting on with since my student budget after freshers week didn't leave me with much spare to spend on myself.

I am going to split this into 3 posts so I don't bore you all so keep on the lookout for the next 2!

In August this year i found out that i had received a place at Edge Hill University which was my first choice!!!

I couldn't be happier with my choice of uni and my first semester has been incredible. I've met some amazing people and my course (Marketing with Advertising) Is also really great.

I absolutely love my room at uni. Sometimes even more than i love my room at home! Its a lovely new fresh room and i've dressed it up with some of my favourite things like this beautiful 'LOVE' light from Primark. It was only £7 and it looks lovely and makes my room look really cosy. 

There's so much more to show you all and a few cheeky purchases to review along the way. I'm now going to fit my blog into my daily routine so i'll never miss a post again!

If any of you are at uni, which uni are you at and whats the best thing about it?

Love Leesha 

xx

Kink Free Hair You Say?! - Popbands

Before i even start this review, why can't all my post come in envelopes like this?! I was recently sent a few Popband hair bands to review and i have to say, the packaging and attention to detail really caught my eye. 

For starters, each band comes individually packaged and on the card there are instructions on how to wear them which i think is a really nice touch. I felt like i was opening more than just an average hair band which was really nice! 

I received 2 leopard print larger bands, which I have been loving for keeping my fringe back when i do my makeup, as well as exercising, a beautiful mint green band with a lovely diamante charm. I think this one will be great for going out when you want your hair up but with a little twist! I also received a tie dye style pink band and a navy blue one. I have found the navy blue one comes in really handy for everyday.

Now they claim to be no kink, no rip hairbands. I was a little skeptical at first because as I'm sure most of you will agree, the little kink you get when you take down your hair can be the most annoying thing!. I have tried these a few times now in different situations and i can confirm...NO KINKS!! I know, a little bit over the top, but really, they didn't leave a single wave in my hair and didn't rip my hair at all. Even the one with the charm!

I do think they feel a little bit flimsy and so i wonder how long they will last in comparison to regular hair bands so i will have to report back on that note. Other than that i can't find any faults. I love all the colours and the variety and the different colours and prints allow you to use the hair bands as an accessory on your wrist and then transform your hair in seconds. I have really enjoyed trying out these products and I am certain that i will be checking out their range for my holiday this year!

Check these out at : http://thepopband.com - They are even offering free postage for UK orders!

Great Product

LOVE

Leesha 

xx 

My Spring/Summer 2013 Wishlist

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

The new beauty blogger GIVEAWAY!! (INTERNATIONAL)

Really wanted to meet more people and gain friends through my blog and I thought what better way than to host a giveaway! 

This will only be a small giveaway since it's my first one!

 How To Enter:

All you have to do is

1. Follow my blog either through Bloglovin or Google friend connect 

2. Comment Below answering... ''what is the spring product you could not live without?''

3. Look back on 22nd May and make sure you check your messages!! 

I will be giving away the following products...

MUA - Power Pout Lip Stain - Colour of your choice!

 These are perfect to just throw on in a hurry and because they're a stain, they last for ages! Love these

MUA - Undress Me Too Palette 

Love this Dupe for the Naked 2 Palette! The neutral shades fit any occasion and the colours are so pigmented!

MUA - Mosaic Blush - English Rose

This is the perfect all round blush, it gives a beautiful flush of colour with highlight and bronze colours to suit any skin tone! 

AND A FEW SURPRISE EXTRAS!!!!

This giveaway is international!!

Beauty Blogger Tag

Saw this floating around  and thought it  would be a nice idea and a chance to get to know me a bit better :) 

Is your hair naturally curly or straight?

My hair has always been poker straight but with really annoying flicky out bits (technical term of course!) at the back that just won't straighten or go away! Maybe when my hair gets longer they will tame a bit more. Would love wavy hair when my hair grows though. 

Do you dye it yourself or go to a salon?

It depends really, if I was going to drastically change it then I would go to a salon, dye disasters can look horrific as many of you will know! I usually die it myself though for just a quick fix job.

Do you wear the same style everyday, or do you change it?

My hair is in that really unworkable, inbetween long and short stage, I really want it long again since its shoulder length at the moment but because it pretty much always looks a mess, its either up or down, nothing fancy until it either grows or gets a trim. 

Do you do your own mani/pedi or go to a salon?

I usually do my own nails, had them done a few times at a salon but since my nails are really brittle, I need tips or gels to make them look any good really and they can get expensive if it becomes a regular thing. Especially since I'm a student.

How often do you change your nail polish?

About twice a week I would say. Sometimes I leave them naked (ooeyyy) but I can usually be seen sporting a very boring, plain colour. I'm not hugely into doing my nails, I like to have something going on, but I spend a lot longer on my face than my nails.

Do you polish your toes in the winter or just in the summer?

Just in the winter, I usually just pop a colour on at the start of summer and then top it up as it needs it, boring I know but I love a good bright red toe look in the summer and i never really shy away from that. Might have to step out of my comfort zone this year and opt for a different colour! Shock Horror!!

How long does it take for you to put on your makeup?

My everyday routine is probably around 10-15 minutes. Just primer, foundation or BB cream, powder, little bit of blush/bronzer, eyeliner, mascara, nude lip. Think I've managed it in 5 before because I'm clearly superwoman but if I don't want to look like I've been attacked by a small child carrying a makeup bag, it's usually 10/15 minutes. More like 30/40 when I'm going out. What with eyelashes, eyeshadow, lip liner etc, it all adds up!

What do you do first, face or eyes?

Always face. I use the Real Techniques buffing brush to just buff my foundation into my face, all over so I couldn't really do my eyes first or they would just get covered in foundation. I'm a self confessed messy foundation applier.

Do you 'collect' makeup or just buy what you need when you need it?

I want to say that I don't collect makeup but there's definitely things that I have bought and never used just because I liked the colour or the packaging. I definitely have more than I need. Makes me happy so why not!

How often do you wear false eyelashes?

I love wearing them when I go out but I would never wear them everyday. Far too much hassle for the morning. Knowing me,i would turn up to college with my eyelids stuck together and a falsie hanging off my cheek!

Do you do a full face of makeup everyday?

No, I like to save a full face for when I go out or else people won't notice a difference! I like to think i look different when I go out than when I'm just at college.

Do you wear makeup when your home alone, or with family?

This is a straight up, not really. Unless i am going out or have been out of the house, I rarely have makeup on around my family. Poor them!

Will you leave the house without makeup?

Reluctantly maybe. Usually I have to be wearing BB cream, powder and mascara before I will open the door. Maybe a bit of self reflection is needed here. Would like to feel confident enough to go out without it in the future.

How many high-end products do you have? 

A few but not many. Don't really have the money to splash out on high end products. I have a few Estee Lauder products, YSL lipsticks, MAC and Benefit is probably my all time fave.

Do you plan your OOTD every night or decided when you are getting dressed?

I usually decide what to wear after  I have had a hissy fit, dragged everything out, tried everything on, realised everything looks awful, then thrown on the last resort. Very stressful haha.

How often do you change your handbag?

Rarely, I'm not a huge handbag lover so I never really spend much money on them. I do really want the ZARA office city bag though! Gonna start saving.

What time do you wake up and go to sleep?

I'm terrible for sleeping. I'm usually up through the night, I have awful insomnia and can leave it till 6 to finally get to sleep, which means iI can sleep through the day sometimes. Really annoying.

How often or when do you workout?

Definitely not as much as I should, I do ballet twice a week but I need to start running again.

Left handed or right handed?

I'm right handed. Very boring.

How tall are you?

I think I'm average. I'm 5'8 so I'm not sure if that is tall or not really. You decide.

Do you speak any foreign language?

I really wish that I could. Might start learning something cool like mandarin in the summer, just for a laugh. 

How many pets do you have?

I have the cutest little pal in the world called Elliot. He is a Hermanns Tortoise and he's only 2 years old. We often take walks out when it's sunny and sometimes a walk on the beach. I also have an 8 year old Jack Russel terrier crossed with something fluffier and less happy, she's not really anything like a Jack Russel.

How often are you on blogger?

All the time at the moment, when I first started, I didn't think anyone was reading it so I stopped but now I'm just doing it for myself because it's fun and anything else is a bonus!

Do you read comments posted on blogs?

I read them on review posts so that I can read other peoples opinions on the product, I find it really helpful when I'm wondering whether to buy something.

Do you keep a list of products to try as you see other posts?

Not a physical list but I do have a list in my head of things that I want to try.

How did you come up with your Blog name?

This is easy, it's just my name sort of shortened - Ellysia - Leesha and then my middle name. Nothing fancy.

What kind of camera do you use for your photographs? 

I just use a Fujifilm Finepix Bridge camera, I really want a canon but they are just too expensive for this little student budget. 

How often do you clean your house?

Well I don't own the house, but my room is usually organised chaos. I usually start things In the middle of the night, and then can't tidy up because everyones in bed. Insomnia is my downfall.

What's your favourite colour?

I absolutely love turquoise. My room is painted turquoise. I also really like deep purples and reds.

Do you swear?

A little too much sometimes, I work serving drunk people so you get used to it. 

What are you doing with the rest of your day?

Well I think I'm going to have a look for some new blogs to follow, have a little look on YouTube and then get ready for my tea before I go out to babysit. 

If you've survived till here...well done!!

LOVE

Leesha

xx

Glossybox April 2013 - Unboxing + Mini review!!

Glossybox April 2013 - Spring Fever

Designed by Pearl Lowe

First of all, before we even get started, how amazing is the design on this box?!

absolutely fell in love with it as soon as I opened the package and since I usually store my makeup in Glossyboxes, I cant wait to have this displayed on my vanity.

When you open the box, you're greeted with the familiar ribbon and sticker, this time with a floral print behind the logo and a pale, almost white ribbon, a nice touch to match in with the box design and I felt that the attention to detail this month was excellent.

As you can see, this months box was amazing, I love the range of products, from well known brands like Essie, to brands that I had heard of but never tried such as Yves Rocher and of course, Nip+Fab. I felt that last months box only really contained one product that I hadn't already used and since Glossybox is all about trying new products, I would have liked to have tried a few new things. This months box really suited me in that way. 

Yves Rocher Nutrive Vegetal 24hr Comfort nourishing cream - Sample Size

Full Size - £13.50

This was the first thing I pulled out and let me tell you, I couldn't have been more excited to see this product! I have been struggling to hydrate two really annoying dry patches under my eyes for weeks, my foundation is clogging around them and they're actually quite sore. Nothing has worked so far. I've tried Estee Lauder, Garnier Intensive even just E45, nothing has worked. I've only used this a couple of times so I can't really give a full review yet but I have high hopes for this and will probably be writing a full review in a couple of weeks so watch this space!

Essie Nail Laquer - Geranium - Full Size

£7.99

I'm not usually a fan of Nail Polishes in Glossybox but I've been getting more into doing my nails recently so I was quite happy with this. I love Essie polishes, the forumla isn't the best I have come across but for £7.99, you can't really go wrong, and a beautiful shade for summer, the colour isn't great in the photo but its a gorgeous bright red with a hint of coral.

Richard Ward Couture hair optimiser style reviver - Sample Size

Full Size - £19.00

I have to admit, it took me a while to figure out what this was, from what I can gather from the leaflet it's a wheat and oil styling spray that increases shine, counteracts frizz and boosts volume. Sounds amazing on the tin but we will have to see. Going to save this for the warmer weather (if we get any that is!) to see if it can save my hair from the summer frizziness. always looking for ways to boost volume so another great product. Looking forward to trying this.

Nip+Fab Dry skin body butter - Mango Smoothie - Sample Size

Full Size - £9.95

Much like every product in the box, this jumped out at me, partly because I love mango scents and partly because I loved the bright packaging. Let me tell you, it didn't disappoint. The smell is absolutely amazing! I've used it twice so far and it smells even better when you apply it. It left my skin feeling so soft and the scent stayed on my skin for ages! Not great if you don't like strong scents, or mango's but i loved it so much that I'm ordering the Full Size. Probably my favourite product.

Balance Me radiance face mask - Sample Size

Full Size - £18

This is probably my least favourite product in the box. Don't get me wrong, I love balance me, I just wouldn't ever spend £18 on a face mask. I love the Montagne Jeunesse face masks, great value, great range and so I don't really see myself paying that much for something when I'm happy with what I'm using. Plus, I received a face mask last month in my Glossybox and I haven't used that yet. I use a face mask once a week and have a large supply of my current favourites. I am determined to give this a go as well as last months however, so when I remember to use them, I will post a review. 

...

Overall, I really loved this months box. It included a wide range of products, all of which I am excited to try out and I felt that the products really suited the Spring Fever theme. Huge thumbs up for the Pearl Lowe designed box too!

LOVE

Leesha

xx