Winter Beauty Savers #2

Hi there!

Welcome to my second instalment of my "winter beauty savers" series. This is going to be a quick one because I have only used the product once; but I'm just so amazed that I just couldn't wait to share it. You see, I have been struggling with my hair for the longest time. If its not split ends; its breakage and winter is especially damage inducing.

I recently bought this Tresemme Keratin Smooth 5  benefits mask after seeing everyone rave about it on social media. Saying that I'm desperate at this point would be an understatement so, I was really hoping for the best with this one.

 I haven't bought the Keratin Smooth Shampoo yet so, I used this hair mask with a different shampoo and kept it on for about half an hour because I figured my hair needed a bit more TLC. I was astonished by the results however.

 The mask promises up to 72 hours of frizz control, supposedly detangles, softens and  tames fly aways all with the help of Marula Oil. Guys, let me tell you after one use I was ready to cry. 

My hair was visibly more silky. It was also more manageable and overall just looked a lot better than it had been for the past few months. If you haven't guessed already, I am definitely going to repurchase this until I cannot anymore. I have high hopes for the long term results. 300ml retails for R84,95 and it is worth every cent.

Have you used this hair mask from Tresemme? I would love to hear what your experience with it was like. If you would like me to check out your blog, leave the link in the comments:)

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Winter beauty savers #1

I love the idea of winter. When I say that, I don’t mean I love the season itself but, I love what it represents. I love cosy knits, mouth-watering warm drinks, binge watching my favourite series on a Sunday afternoon and reading steamy novels while it’s storming outside.

Even my mood changes in the winter season. I desire textures that are opulent and make-up that is equally rich and colour. It’s a moodier vibe than I would normally display in the warmer months. With the cold season right here on our doorstep I feel the need to not only switch up my skin care routine but, also my beauty regime. So I have decided to do a series of posts sharing my winter beauty savers.

I have been looking for a night cream to help my skin get extra moisture while I sleep. I wanted something lavish but, not greasy. When I saw Nivea's Daily Essentials Regenerating Night Cream I was curious to say the least. I haven't used many night creams so I wasn't sure what to look for exactly but, the "24-hour moisture boost + refresh " on the packaging was enough to convince me. I love this night cream. I know I tend to post only about products I love but, right now I don't have the energy or time to post about disappointing products.

The smell is amazing. It's not overpowering but rather soothing. I also like the consistency. It's thick enough to leave your skin feeling supple and moisturized but, it doesn't leave a greasy residue. I've been using it for a few weeks and my skin is absolutely radiant. The 50ml retails for R69.99 and now I am actually considering getting the day cream as well. 

Overall this night cream was exactly what I was looking for and I can't wait to see how it works with the day cream. I give it 7/10 and I am definitely going to repurchase. What's your favourite night cream at the moment? Or share your winter skin saver with me, I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Make Your MARK

I only have one requirement when it comes to mascara and that is: I want the brush to be thin. Needless to say, when I was gifted this MARK mascara from Avon I was sure I would not enjoy it because the brush is anything but thin. In fact it's the complete opposite. 

The mascara promises to give you big and daring lashes and the packaging does not lie. While it took me a moment to get used to mascara,the results are impeccable. Collosal lashes was what I got. The brush picks up a bit too much product at first but, its not a train smash.

The waterproof formula is perfect for those humid summer days but, it removes easily with a little bit micellar cleansing water. Listen, let me tell you I was not too keen on using the mascara but,I'm really glad I did. Although the brush is, at first glance, uncomfortably big, it does an amazing job of giving you beautiful, voluminous lashes.

I enjoyed using it so much I'm actually going to go and repurchase it. Have you used this mascara? What is your go to mascara at the moment? I would love go hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

"This is a man's world..

But it would be nothing without a woman or a girl..."Can you guess which trend I am obsessing over this month. Menswear, although not really a new trend, is invading the fashion world one pinstripe at a time. While some can pull it off without a second thought; for others like me, it might require a little more effort and practice.

The trend allows you to explore masculine style while adding your own individual flair. So if you don't want to wear the trend top to bottom; there are ways to incorporate it into your style, one item at a time. In this post I discuss the menswear trends I am dying to try.

Blazers: This is probably the easiest way to inject a little bit of masculinity into your every day wardrobe. You can wear a blazer over a dress or with a jeans and t-shirt.  A blazer is the ultimate masculine piece. I especially love a sleeveless blazer.

Loafers and brogues: I find loafers and brogues absolutely sexy. There's just something so irresistibly carefree yet controlled about them. In my opinion they look best with tailored pants but, they will add some edge to dresses and skirts as well.

Cigarette pants: Nothing says men's inspired fashion like good tailoring...and well tailored pants are right at the top of the list. I love a pair that sits right above the ankle. I think the hint of skin is quite feminine.

Boyfriend jeans: Boyfriend jeans are the epitome of "borrowed from the boys". It can be dressed down with a t-shirt and flats or glammed up with a leather jacket and some sparkly heels. I love how versatile it is.

What is your favourite masculine trend? Which trends are you currently obsessed with? I Enjoy the inspiration images in this post.

*I do not take credit for the images in this post

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Review: Essence You Better Work Primer

Imagine a primer that works as hard as you do. One who promises to keep you looking sweat free and instagram ready even after a work out. Now, imagine no more and say hello to Essence's You Better Work Gym proof primer.

The latest offering from Essence is sweat proof, has SPF20 and gives you an instant blur effect.  I put it to the test both at work and at my fit club and I adore it. I usually look like a bit of an overcooked tomato after working out but, not when I wear this primer which is a bonus for me. It cancels out the red look you get from sweating.

The light blue liquid reminds me of toothpaste and has a thicker formula than what I am used but, it still blends easily. I use it sparingly and I usually wait a minute or two  before applying my foundation. I feel like the people at Essence are really taking into consideration what we do on a day to day basis and are creating products that are relevant. With or without foundation this primer works and the slim tube slips easily into your hand or gym bag.

This primer retails for R74,95 and I could kick myself for not buying more than one. So it goes without saying that I am definitely repurchasing.

What are your thoughts on primer? Is it part of your make up routine? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Heavenly Bodies: The 2018 MET Gala

It goes without saying that I was excited about the MET Gala this year but, when I discovered what the theme was, I surpassed excitement . The grand affair was held on the first Monday in May (7th) and I, along with the rest of the world, could not wait to see what the red carpet would produce this year.

This year’s theme “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” was perplexing to say the least but, I was sure the stars (at least some of them) would rise to the occasion. And did they ever. For me, the winner of the night was Rihanna in Mason Margiela by John Galliano. Not only did she co-chair the MET gala this year for their 70th anniversary but, she honoured the theme in a way I could not have imagined. No one interprets a theme quite like Riri. Some of my other favourites also include Cara Delevingne, SZA, Cardi B, Zendaya and Lily Collins.

I was also frustrated by a few of the looks. Listen, I am no fashion expert but, when you don’t even try adhering to the theme, what’s the point? This is the one night you get to be over the top and I wish some celebs were not playing it so safe. I’m talking about you Kim Kardashian West. Nevertheless, the night was a marvellous spectacle ( judging by the fashion) and I can’t wait to find what next year’s theme will be.

In this post I have gathered some of my favourite and not-so-favourite looks from fashion’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Do you see your favourite here? Tell me who think was best and worst dressed for the night.

Rihanna 

Rita Ora

Winnie Harlow

Kris Jenner

Kendall Jenner

Car a Delevingne 

Migos

Lily Collins

Traces Ellis Ross

Miley Cyrus, Stella McCartney and Paris Jackson

Janelle Monae

Kim Kardashian West

Nicki Minaj

Trevor Noah

Cardi B

Issa Rae

Mary J Blidge

Gigi Hadid

Selena Gomez

Lana delRey

Priyanka Chopra

Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner

Blake Lively

Zendaya

*I do not take credit the images in this post.

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Beauty on a budget: My must haves

There is nothing I value more than products that don't cost me an arm and a leg but, the quality suggests that it might have. When I shop for make up I always keep in mind that it has to make my life easier.

In today's post I discuss some of my absolute favourite (and inexpensive) must haves. I dont have time to reapply my make up during the day so staying power plays a huge role when it comes to buying products. At first I didn't care much for primers but, after doing some research I realized that a primer is imperative when you want a flawless look. This one from Essence is especially wonderful. The Fresh &Fit Awake primer promises a healthy glow while minimising your pores. I've worn this primer with and without foundation and it looks amazing either way. It retails for R74, 95.

Another winner for me is the Essence Stay All Day Translucent Fixing Powder. This was my first time using a loose powder so I have to admit I was a bit unsure of its necessity. However, I am glad I gave this powder a chance. It gives me a beautiful matte look and keeps my foundation from looking shiny and tacky. I especially adore it on the warmer days. I bought this on sale for 20 bucks :)

Lastly, I want to talk about the LA Girl Pro Conceal HD concealer. Now this has been a cult favourite ever since I can remember so I was curious to say the least. I use this concealer every single day of my life. I couldn't imagine not using it. For the price (R59,95) its pretty amazing at covering the dark circles under my eyes.

Have you used any of the products in this post? What are your go to products at the moment? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Review: Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser

I'm not the biggest fan of lotion. Don't get me wrong...I'm not the kind of person who likes to be ashy. I just prefer a body mist or bath oil. Something that doesn't require a lot of rubbing and ultimately saves me time. When I saw Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser I was definitely intrigued . First of all the packaging ( a 190ml spray bottle) seemed really fancy. So it's safe to say that I'm a sucker for packaging. That aside, let me tell about the actual product.

The spray comes in 3 variants at the moment. Deep Restore, Cocoa Radiant and Aloe Soothe and they are absolutely perfect for the winter months ahead. They all contain micro-droplets of Vaseline jelly which helps with moisturising and restoring dry skin.

Deep Restore

 The formula is completely non greasy and absorbs quickly and easily into your skin. They also smell and feel amazing and it makes your skin look like the sun licked it ( hello glow).

Cocoa Radiant

 I love the fact that you get to choose which scent you like instead of just having to deal with one scent for everyone. I like every single one of the them but, the Cocoa Radiant  has a bit of a special place in my heart.

Aloe Soothe

So the real question here really is whether its worth the R79 bucks its retailing for? One hundred percent! It does a perfect job of moisturising even the dryest parts of your body, it lasts a long time and it smells divine. What exactly is not to love?

Sidenote: they are on special for R39,99 @Dischem at the moment but I'm not sure for how long so hurry and let me know what you think about it!

TILL LATER,LAUREN!