November Favourites

Can you believe November is over already and we're now practically in the month of pigs in blankets and fairy lights?!  This month's favourites appear to be quite Topshop and Maybelline heavy. Strange, because these are two brands which I have never been overly fussed by but seem to be making their mark in my make up bag.

Autumn Favourite: MAC Whirl.

No matter how many times "you do not need any more lipstick" whizzes through my mind as I manically swatch every nude and bright available to me on the beautifully displayed MAC Lipstick stand, "OK, one more won't hurt" always seems to prevail.

Staying Fit and Healthy at University

These 1KG weights are from Primark.  You can buy amazing quality products for such reasonable prices, being a 'poor student' is no longer an excuse for being unhealthy!

Hi Guys!

Having just started my third year, I'd say I'm pretty good at knowing the balance between exercising and staying healthy, but also being able to enjoy myself while at university. So to continue the university series, I thought I would write about my tips on staying fit and healthy on a budget.

Remember this when you're feeling overwhelmed...

Even your beloved laptop can seem like the devil when you're feeling overwhelmed.  Shut the lid and go for a walk.

We all have times where everything seems to be piling up on us, whether it be school or uni work, family life or just those little niggling jobs that never seem to get done; at times it can start to feel a little overwhelming.  If you're finding yourself in the midst of one of these moments and it seems as though it will never end, here are a few little reminders to help you stay focused and relieve stress.

Everyday University Face

Today's post features my 5 minute university face.  Although there may seem like an hours worth of products here, I promise that they're incredibly easy to blend, buff, smudge and coat.  It is pretty much in the student job description that you must have the ability to lie in bed until the very last minute, but still look 'relatively' presentable when you eventually roll up to uni.

Freshers Starter Guide: Tips for Surviving First Year.

One of my first ever nights out as a Fresher.

Going to University is definitely up there with one of the most challenging and life changing experiences you will ever come across.  You'll be living away from home, your family, and life-long friends and taking the first steps towards your chosen career path (although don't worry if you're not exactly sure what that is yet!).  When I became a student two years ago, I was the first person in my entire family to set food in a University, so as you can imagine, I was a complete bundle of nerves with no idea what to do or expect.  Here is a little guide of my top tips to help you through first year...

Bloggers' Block.

In a recent bout of bloggers block, I've come to realise that blogging entirely about beauty products just really isn't for me anymore.  Don't get me wrong, I still love trying and reviewing new products, so there will definitely still be beauty posts featured here.  I've decided to switch things up and start writing about anything close to my heart, this could be anything from fashion, food, days out, beauty or even university posts.

I love blogging and really want to get back into the swing of things.  Being the start of a new year at university, it is definitely the perfect opportunity to start afresh and get back on the blogging scene.

Amoure, Ellie xxx

Origins Face Mask Trio

Three Origins Masks for £20

A couple of weeks ago whilst browsing the Boots website, I spotted an amazing, amazing deal that is still available if you act fast... three 75ml Origins masks for £20 instead of £50 (get the deal here).  Of course, being a sucker for a good deal, the set went straight into my basket and without any hesitation I checked out.
    First of all, I was really impressed with the Boots' delivery service.  I had never used it before as I usually buy products in store where I can test and swatch until my heart's content, however the deal was too good to miss out on so I thought I'd give delivery a go; the package arrived just three days after I made my order!
    The set contains three of Origins' most popular face masks; Drink up intensive, Out of Trouble and Clear Improvement.
    "Drink up Intensive" is an overnight mask which aims to 'quench the skins thirst'.  My skin isn't overly dry or dehydrated, but I am prone to dullness and a few random dry patches here and there.  I really liked the sound of this mask to perk up my dull looking skin, especially as I had never tried an overnight mask before so it was something completely new.  I applied the mask after cleansing and left it on over night as directed.  It really is just like a moisturiser and sinks into the skin straight away, so there isn't any chance of you getting any mess over your bedding.  When I woke up my skin looked plumper and generally like I had had more than 7 hours sleep! Top marks for Drink up Intensive.
    "Out of Trouble" is a super speedy 10 minute mask which uses natural soothing oils to 'rescue problem skin'.  I've been using this mask twice to even three times a week on some annoying, stubborn blemishes on my chin and I've definitely seen results.  Although the blemishes didn't completely disappear on first use, the redness was bought down considerably and they just didn't look as angry.
    Finally, "Clear Improvement" was the mask I was most excited to use as I had heard so many great things about it.  It uses active charcoal to help clear pores and remove any deep down dirt.  I use this mask all over my face after cleansing and honestly my skin has never felt so clean.  I leave it on for around twenty minutes to half an hour (until it has completely dried) and then use a muslin cloth and warm water to gently wipe it off.  I love how soft this has made my skin and I have definitely noticed the pores around my nose looking much smaller.
    My skin has been looking so much clearer and brighter since I've been using these masks, and I am so glad I spotted that deal on the Boots website.  Only problem now is that I will have to repurchase them all when I run out...

Have you tried any of these Origins Masks?  What did you think?

Amour, Ellie xxx

Pretty Spring Lip: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss and Lipstick

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick and Lipgloss in 'Kiss Me Coral'

For me, along with glorious sunshine, the moment the highlighting pink blushers (see here) and bright lipsticks are bought to the front of the make-up stash, are the first signs that spring has sprung.  This is the transition that I have made over the past few days, and it is very easy to say that I am now in full spring mode.
    You can read about my favourite nude lip products here, however, this post is dedicated to my most worn spring lip combo- Revlon's Super Lustrous Lipstick (£7.49) and Lipgloss (£6.99) in 'Kiss Me Coral'. In my eyes, when paired together, they create the most perfect orangey-red bright lip and are perfect for spring time.
    I love that the formula of the lipstick isn't too matte, but has a lovely sheen when applied; I find matte lipsticks can feel quite heavy during spring and summer.  I love wearing this shade quite liberally for a really bright, bold look, however it can also be dabbed and patted on for a more subtle pop of colour.
    Usually I'm not one to apply a lip gloss, as quite often they're really sticky and whenever the wind blows, my hair gets stuck all over my lips- yuck!  The Super Lustrous Lip Gloss isn't sticky at all and really feels like you have applied a balm rather than a gloss.  Don't be fooled by the amount of shimmer in the bottle, because once on the lips it creates a really lovely, juicy look.
    As if Revlon needs any more praise, I just need to mention the packaging.  I love the look of all products from Revlon as they are always very sleek and feel really luxurious to carry round and use; plus, the best thing is that they are half the price of most high-end lip products.

Orange will definitely be my most worn lip colour for spring time, what's yours? Have you tried anything from the Super Lustrous range?

Amour, Ellie xxx

Product Review: Max Factor Creme Puff Blush

Max Factor Creme Puff Blush (£8.99)

Over the past couple of weeks, there has been a lot of hype around the new Max Factor 'Creme Puff Blushers' (£8.99) and have even been compared to the 'Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushers' (£28). In general, I'm really not a huge blusher wearer, and tend to stick to warming up my face with bronzer. When I spotted Max Factor's new blushers, I couldn't resist popping a pot of the beautiful, swirly colours into my basket.
    There are a total of six shades to choose from, ranging from pale mauvey pinks to deep berries.  I picked up the shade 'Seductive Pink', a gorgeous traditional pink with a gold highlight streaming through it.  The powders are so finely milled and the multi-tonal pigments illuminate and liven up the skin without looking too shimmery or sparkly.
    The colour I chose is really quite subtle but can definitely be built upon to for a brighter pop of colour; perfect for spring time.  Baked blushers are incredibly easy to wear and blend perfectly onto your cheekbones, while the subtle highlight helps lift the whole make-up look.  I like to apply the blush with my Zoeva angled brush, as it picks up just the right amount and is the perfect size for my cheeks. (A full review of the Zoeva brushes will be up on Amourellie soon!)
    All in all, the Max Factor has definitely converted me to the world of blusher, and I cant wait to test out some of the other shades!

Have you tried the Max Factor Creme Puff Blushers yet? What did you think?

Amour, Ellie xxx

Product Review: Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Concealer

Instant Anti-Age Concealer (£7.99)

For many months, I listened to raving reviews about the Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Concealer (£7.99), but was never convinced by the seemingly unhygienic sponge-like applicator.  Whilst browsing the aisles of Boots a while back, the little bottle caught my eye, and since I really have never tried anything like it before, I decided to finally give it a whirl.

   

 Of course, this concealer was worth all the hype.

    Despite my first thoughts about fluffy sponge applicator, it really is no different to using a regular dough-foot applicator that comes with most concealers.  I did find, however, that the sponge can often apply too much product underneath my eyes and starts to crease and look cakey; to prevent this, I put some product on the back of my hand and dab it on using my ring finger.

    The consistency is beautifully light and covers any signs of dark circles with hardly any product at all.  The concealer bends so easily and doesn't settle in any fine lines (although I would still recommend setting with powder!).  I use the shade 'light' and pat it on in a triangle shape to lift, brighten, and fool the world into thinking that I have had a perfect 9 hours sleep.  Not only great is it for hiding dark circles, but the natural consistency means it is also really good for covering redness around my nose and any pesky blemishes I may have.
    Overall, Maybelline have hit the nail on the head with this release, and I don't think I need to be trying any other under eye concealers for quite a while!

Have you ever tried this concealer? What did you think?

Amour Ellie xxx

Liebster Award

The mess that takes place while blogging...

Today's post is a little different from my usual beauty orientated topics, as I was nominated for the Liebster Award by Kelsey (https://kelseybarker1999.blogspot.co.uk), thank you!  This award was originally created to help acknowledge new bloggers and welcome them to the community.  Today, the award also helps like minded people get to know the blogger behind the keyboard a little better.

These are the rules-
1) Link the people who tagged you
2) Answer the questions given by the nominator
3) Nominate your favourite blogs with under 200 followers
4) Create 11 new questions
5) Make sure they know they've been nominated via social media or their blog!
Simple!

Kelseys Questions-

How old are you?
  20, and I still can't get used to saying it.
Why did you start your blog?
  I have loved reading other peoples blogs since around 2012, when the blogging world really started to blow up.  It was reading these blogs that sparked my definite passion for anything beauty, fashion, or lifestyle related, and gave me the confidence to start up my own blog.  I've had quite a few blogs over the years, but I've never been committed enough or felt the right motivation to continue writing, until now. So, those accounts have long been deactivated, and Amourellie was created.
What is your favourite food?
  Mum's shepards pie.  Didn't even need to think about that one.
How many posts do you do a week?
  At the moment, two; Thursday and Sunday!  But I'm thinking of posting on Tuesdays too...what do you guys think?
What social media do you use the most?
  Since having my blog, definitely Twitter.  I'll never stop loving Instagram though! (Plug: follow me! @elliemaesilvey )
Favourite hot drink?
  PG Tips tea with a splash of milk
Any special talents?
  Does doing a headstand and drinking a glass of water count as 'special'?
Where would you like to travel to?
  Too many places to possibly list...lets just say, everywhere.
Sing or dance?
  I'm definitely a dancer, but am partial to a little shower time sing song (who isn't?!)
Describe yourself in one word?
  Excitable
Future goals for your blog?
  I don't have a list of goals to be honest.  I'm looking forward to seeing how my blog changes as I change as a person.

My Questions for you!

1) What inspired you to start blogging?
2) What is the best meal you have ever had?
3) Where is your favourite place in the world?
4) Which celebrity would you most like to have for dinner?
5) What is your favourite thing about blogging?
6) Go out partying or cosy night in?
7) What are your goals for 2015?
8) What is your favourite type of post to write? Why?
9) What job did you want when you were little?
10) What is your worst habit?
11) What has been your biggest achievement?


I've tagged a few of my current favourite blogs- pippibee, verybecca, hellolaura, gemmacarey, lacoconoire and A Girl Obsessed

Violet Plum Jewellery

Midnight Ring (£4.95)

Based in Buckinghamshire, Violet Plum Jewellery is a small online shop with big ideas.  The brand aims to bring together different designs and designers from all over the world, each sharing a passion for whimsical, interesting and unique jewellery.  Why spend hours sifting through numerous websites looking for that perfect necklace, when all you could ever want can be found in one place?

    Jasmin, the founder of Violet Plum, has always had a strong belief that jewellery can help women express themselves; they are free to show their personalities while feeling empowered and confident.  Jasmin lives in a small town where she has gained inspiration from long walks through the fields and form independent shops and businesses.  She has always dreamt of launching her own jewellery shop, and with the help of her partner's two sisters, dedicated graphic designers and a top photographer, her dream has become reality.
    The highly anticipated website launch is happening today! (1st March 2015); you can now browse and buy until your heart's content! Show your support and visit their website www.violet-plum.co.uk to view their range of beautiful jewellery. To celebrate this exciting event, Violet Plum is giving away a 10% discount code for a limited time only (ends at midnight).  To claim your discount, type 'LAUNCH10' in the final stages of checkout.
    You can also follow Violet Plum on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, where you can be kept up to date with offers and new releases!

Top, Left, Right, Bottom- Glitter Quartz Ring (£4.95), Rose Quartz Necklace (£9.95), Gold Crescent Ring (£4.95), Pumpkin Bead Bracelet (£14.95)

Product Review: Make up Revolution, The Flawless Palette.

The 'Flawless Palette' by Make up Revolution is £8 in Superdrug

I've always found the cheaper drugstore eye shadows to be pretty hit and miss; they are either very powdery and have a lot of fall out, or have absolutely no pigment at all. This mentality was solidly fixed in my head until I came across Make up Revolution's 'The Flawless Palette' in Superdrug; my mind has been changed forever.
    This palette contains 32 gorgeous neutral shades, and a mixture of matte, satin and glitter finishes.  If you're like myself and tend to stick to browns and light shimmers on the lids, don't be afraid of the deep burgundy and green shades!  They look amazing for an autumnal look, and are a really good way of getting that subtle pop of colour.  The majority of eye shadows are very pigmented and buttery to apply, and with such an extensive range of shades this really is the perfect palette to take you from day to night.
    Aside from the colours, the packaging is rather beautiful too!  Surprisingly for a drugstore brand, the palette is very sturdy and compact, and has a very large mirror on the inside (perfect for travelling!). I love that the eye shadows fill the entire space, and no room is left for those annoying foam applicators that are never used and just get in the way.  The shiny black plastic makes the overall feel of the palette very luxurious and high-end, when in actual fact this will only cost you £8!  I know, I couldn't believe it either...

Have you tried anything from Make up Revolution? I'd love to hear about any other amazing products of theirs.

Amour, Ellie xxx

My Favourite Nude Lip Combo

Everybody these days seems to be looking for that 'perfect Kylie Jenner nude lip', and I am definitely no exception!  Nude lips can give any make up look an element of sophistication and elegance, as long the 'nude' is right.  By this, I mean not too yellow that it looks like you have jumped straight from a 90s pop video, and not too powder pink that you look like a life size Barbie.  I prefer to opt for brown-peach nudes, as I feel like they compliment my olivey skin tone, whereas other shades wash me out.
    Rimmel Exaggerate Lip Liner in 'East End Snob' £3.99- My first stage in creating a perfect nude lip.  I've really been getting into using these recently, as they not only give you the opportunity to create the look of fuller lips, but also help your lipstick last longer.  The colour is so versatile and once blended, you'll find that it can be worn under virtually any nude colour lipstick.  There has been a lot of talk in the blogging community that this shade is the drugstore dupe for the 'Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk'.  I haven't tried that (yet), but would be interested to know if it really is the perfect match!
    L'Oreal Exclusive Nudes in 'Barely Golden by Eva Longoria' £6.99 - First of all, have a look at that packaging; this is probably the most high-end looking drug-store lipstick I own and is a pleasure to take out of my hand bag when I am on the go.  The formula is really creamy, hydrating and has a lovely golden sheen running through it that makes the lips look really full and lovely.  In my eyes, Eva's nude is perfect for every day wear (plus, who wouldn't want to look like Eva Longoria?!).
    L'Oreal L'Extroadinaire Liquid Lipstick in '500' £8.99- I have to admit, I don't feel this step is always necessary and am often quite content with a more matte look using just the products above, however when my lips are feeling particularly dehydrated or it's a special occasion, who doesn't love a little gloss?!  I love this dusky-pink shade dabbed across the centre of my lips to create a full, healthy look. Sadly, I do have to disagree with the 'liquid lipstick' claim and brand it as more of a 'highly-pigmented gloss'; it just doesn't have the lasting power as some of it's competitors (Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvets, £8.99).  Nonetheless, I love the colour and it looks perfect on its own or on top of lipstick.

What is your favourite nude lip combo? I'd love to know!

Amour, Ellie xxx

Product Review: Rimmel Fix and Perfect Pro Primer

Rimmel's Fix and Perfect Pro Primer (£4.99)

I rarely use primers, not so much because I don't like them, but because I'm lazy and just see it as another step in my make up routine (that already takes waaaay too long!).  On those occasions where I have an extra long day ahead of me, or even the odd night out and I feel a primer is necessary, I look for only one thing; the ability to keep my skin looking fresh for as long as possible.

Enter: Rimmel's Fix and Perfect Pro Primer.
 
I actually bought this primer way back in 2010 when my make-up bag was becoming more equipped, however I finished the tube and never really considered repurchasing.  Recently, the product has come back on the beauty blogging radar, so I thought I would pick it up from my local Boots and give it another go.
    The product itself is very creamy and feels almost like you are applying a moisturiser. If you're looking for good pore blurring ability, I wouldn't recommend this primer as the best for that job; try a silicone based product like Maybelline Baby Skin or Benefit Porefessional.  In terms of helping make up last just that much longer and keeping that pesky shine at bay, this is definitely your guy.
    What I love most is the thin consistency, it sinks in with ease and doesn't feel as though you're adding just another layer on top of your skin.  It is so simple and doesn't claim to do anything it doesn't do! Priced at only £4.99 in Boots, this primer a lot more more effective than some higher-end brands, and for a quarter of the price, you can't really go wrong!

Have you tried this primer? What do you love/hate about it? I'd love to know!

Amour, Ellie xxx

Life Hack: Lip balm for Highlight

I applied Superdrug's 'Little Green Tin' lip balm across the tops of my cheeks to create a dewy highlight

Recently, I've found myself ditching the traditional powder or cream highlighters for something a little different and definitely more natural looking.
    For me, London Fashion Week is not only a time to oggle at the dreamy clothes and shoes, but also the many beautiful make up looks by the extremely talented make-up artists.  A glossy, natural highlighted look took the catwalks by storm during the SS14 shows, and after a quick bit of research, I was surprised to discover the magical product behind this gorgeous look, was lip balm!?
    Since this knowledge has come to my attention, the generic highlighting creams and powders have been resigned to the back of my make-up draw, and the lip balms have been bought way forward!  I love the effect of dabbing just a tiny amount over the tops of my cheek bones to create a glowy make-up look.
   I really love that this technique doesn't involve adding any extra colour to your skin, unlike some cream and powder highlighting products which can often leave your make-up looking heavy and cakey, especially during the winter months.
    You may be thinking 'Surely adding lip balm to your face makes you look more greasy than glowy?!'.  This was a concern of mine too, so I only apply the balm to the tops of my cheeks and avoid my T-zone as this is where I become oily.  My balm of choice is usually Superdrug's Little Green Tin as it isn't too sticky, but another great product for the job is Maybelline Baby Lips in 'Hydrate'.
    So ladies, if you love a natural, dewy make-up look for daytime, save your pennies and use up those lip balms you have at the back of your drawer!

Do you have any weird yet wonderful make-up tips? I'd love to hear them!

Ellie xxx

Product Review: Nars Audacious Lipstick

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Audrey (£24)

I have lusted after the NARS Audacious Lipsticks for a very, very long time; wishing and longing that their price range fell into the budget of a student (£24).  Alas, they do not, and so I have never been able to get my paws on one.  That is, until I was given the shade 'Audrey' by an amazing, amazing friend of mine (pippibee.blogspot.com, check her out!) for my birthday.

   What an incredibly lucky girl I am.

   Honestly, this is the most beautiful lipstick I have ever seen.  'Audrey' is a gorgeous deep plummy colour that can be worn liberally for a bold evening look, or dabbed over the lips for a pinky-plum daytime look.  The finish is smooth, light, and dries quite matte so the colour doesn't budge and looks just as good during hour 4 as when it was first applied.
   One of my favourite things about the lipstick is the packaging.  As usual, NARS have used their signature branding, matte black with a shiny 'NARS' written on the side;  what I really love is that the lid is held on by a strong magnet (which also creates that satisfying 'click' when the lid is popped back on).  This little mechanism means that there is no chance of the lid falling off and creating an expensive mess in your handbag.
   I wore the lipstick for the first time a couple of evenings ago, when my family and I went to watch my little sister in a show.  I received so many compliments on the colour and I wasn't left with that annoying ring around your lips you sometimes get after wearing a bold lippy.  It couldn't be more perfect!

Have you tried any of the NARS Audacious Lipsticks?  What did you think?  Have you got any recommendations of colours I should try?!

Amour, Ellie xxx