Review : African Extracts Rooibos Products

My skin has never been overly problematic but, every now and then I would suffer the odd break out. And it is usually at the worst possible time. Needless to say I am extra conscious of how I look after my skin. The African Extracts products have caught my attention a few times this year but, it was until recently that I started using the products.

While I haven't been using the products long enough to do a thorough review I thought I would just share a little bit about the products and my experience with it. I have purchased 3 products so far and I have been using it for a little over 6 weeks.

Let me tell you about the Spot Control face wash. I am very picky when it comes to my face because I always end up with red patches after washing. This face wash however is super gentle because of the Rooibos and Boabab extract it contains. The packaging states that its perfect for cleaning deep down in your pores to assist with problem free skin. So far I have been using this face wash twice a day for the last few weeks and I see a major difference. My skin is smoother and definitely in much better shape.

And then there is the toner. Ever since I have discovered what toner is for, I have been trying to find the perfect toner. I don't consider my skin to be super sensitive but, some of the toners I have used have burnt my skin a bit. I am happy to report that this toner is the exact opposite. It leaves my skin refreshed and my pores tightened.

Lastly there is the Dual-Action moisturiser. I usually apply this before foundation. I love that it absorbs easily and the non greasy formula prevents me from ending up shiny during the day. This one is a keeper.

Have you used any of these products? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Review: Revlon Highlighting Palette & L.A girl Matte lipstick

I like to buy things that won't make me feel guilty in the long run. Meaning, the quality has to be great, it has to make my life easier and it has to last me a while. Which is why I am beyond excited to share this next review.

This Revlon Highlighting Palette and L.A girl Matte lipstick are my two go to products at the moment. They both  brighten up my face and make me feel really amazing.

Let's talk about this stunning palette. It's a highlighter, blush and bronzing palette all in one and I love that it saves me a ton of time in the morning. I dust it on my cheek bones, forehead and bridge of my nose and I have got a healthy glow in a matter seconds. This is definitely on my repurchase list! ( PS. It was purchased as part of a set).

Then there's this gem from L.A girl. While it might seem like a moody winter colour, I think its an amazing update to your face even in summer. The colour is called Va Voom and is a matte texture. The staying power is great too and when the colour does fade , its a beautiful berry stain. But, if matte is not your thing, you can still use the lipstick. The end of this lipstick screws off to reveal a little tub of gloss to go over the matte lipstick. I have to admit, this is what really won me over. Ofcourse I'm going to repurchase this one too. It retails for about R59,99.

Have you used either of these products. I would love to hear from you. 

Disclaimer : This is not a sponsored post.  

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Trend post: Oversized denim jackets

Relaxed. Effortless. Unbothered. These are only some of the words that come to mind when I think of oversized denim jackets. It's a trend that's loved by both A-list starlets and fashion insiders. I enjoy keeping an eye on trends that are both locally and internationally worn and this is definitely one of those.

What I adore about the oversized denim jacket is that it just screams uncomplicated style. It says " yes I love fashion, but I'm not trying too hard." As with all my trend posts I've scoured the internet to find looks that will inspire both my readers and myself. These are some of my favourite looks.

How would you style your oversized denim jacket?

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

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Framed

A visit to the traffic department the other day confirmed a truth I was both completely aware of and also actively trying to deny: I desperately need my glasses. All day, every day and especially at night times.

I have never been too thrilled at the idea of wearing glasses partly because I couldn't possibly imagine how I would do my make up. To make a long story short, I enlisted the help of Twitter to figure out  how to make wearing glasses work for me. Two lovely ladies shared some tips that really stood out for me.

@AnneDolli - "bold lips. It makes all the difference ".

@LadyZaa - "LOTS of mascara. I love it. Also, if you have dark circles conceal them slightly because glasses magnify everything"

So taking this advice to heart, I went out and spoilt myself a bit.

I can't do flat lays to save my life lol.

Revlon Ultra HD lipstick in 815 Sweet Pea

L.A. girl Pro Concealer in medium beige.

Revlon Colorburst Matte Balms in 210 Unapologetic  (left ) and 260 Passionate  (right)

And then there is this beauty.  Revlon Highlighting Palette in 020 Rose Glow. 

What is your ultimate make up tip? Please feel free to share them to me. I'd love to hear from you.

Disclaimer : This is not a sponsored post.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Denim+ Suede

I love look posts. I absolutely enjoy seeing what other bloggers wear on a day to day basis. If you read my blog on the regular you would have noticed that I don't do too many lookposts. Firstly, its because I have always thought that you needed a photographer following you around. And, secondly, I only like about every 200th picture I take of myself. Nevertheless, I have decided to get over it and just take some damn pictures.

Now of course these are not the professional fashion blogger pictures you are used to but, its a step in the right  direction. I wore this the other day when I was out to run some errands. This versatile stretch denim dress is a favourite of mine simply because it easily transitions from season to season. I paired it with stockings and my favourite suede boots to accommodate the chilly breeze.

Mind you, this was the one day I decided to use public transport. They ended up striking that same day and I had to walk home from the mall.Atleast I was wearing flats during my long walk home. Glass half full I guess.

Dress: Mr Price 

Grey top: Mr Price 

Boots: Miladys

Stockings : Dischem

Choker : Mr Price  (again)

Watch: gifted 

I plan on wearing this dress so many different ways this summer and hopefully I will get to share those looks as well. Any look posts you would like me to have a look at? I'd love to hear from you.

                TILL LATER, LAUREN!

All that glitters

When I was about 11 or 12 I bought the most hideous sequined blouse and found a million inappropriate ways to wear it. First with some baggy jeans, then with shorts and even with cargo pants. You see, back then everyone wasn't as accepting of sequins during the daytime as they are now. Even now, it blows my mind that I had the nerve to be that bold.

While we can all learn from my mistakes, the fashion world and street style sweethearts have found a way to cement the idea of sequins and glitters as more than just for princess parties and Vegas show girls. They have found ways to incorporate it into their everyday wardrobes without looking ridiculously over the top. Even work wear has gotten a sparkly injection.

In the spirit of remedying the horrendous mistakes I made when I was young and unwise I have decided to dedicate this post to giving all of us some tips and tricks to master the art of wearing sequins/sparkles/glitter at any time of the day or year.

*Balance

Try pairing your sequined items with masculine or tailored items to create a balance. For example, if you are wearing a sequined skirt, add a tailored blazer or a pair of brogues .

*Keep it simple

Sequins or sparkly pieces can be toned down by pairing it with simple fabrics, uncomplicated shapes and neutral colours. If you are not ready to go full on sparkly try introducing the trend into your wardrobe in small dosages. Accessories are a great way to do this.

*Choose on focal point

Because sequins and glitters are such statement makers you shouldn't pair them with anything that's equally over the top. Chose one item to be your focal point and work around it. The rest of your look should compliment your sequins and not try to compete with it.

How do you wear your sequined pieces? I would love to hear from you! 

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

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Coco Kisses

I have never been a lipgloss person. Everyone who knows me ( or reads my blog ) knows that I prefer eye make up over everything. On a whim,  I bought this Yardley Stayfast Supershine  lipgloss a few weeks ago and I haven't stop using it since.

Over the years lipgloss has gotten a bit of a bad reputation for either being too messy or too sticky which is probably why I steered clear of it. However, I am not one to pass up a sale, especially not on make up. (This lipgloss cost me under R40). Let me tell you why I love it.

The formula is creamy and not sticky.  It feels really comfortable on my lips. It shines like a gloss but, my mouth does not look like I just ate a pork chop. It lasts longer than the average lipgloss which I appreciate. Having to reapply every few hours would put me off the gloss permanently. I decided to get it in Coco Kisses because its a hue I can wear to work and on a night out. I'm looking forward to trying the other shades.

Have you tried this lipgloss? What's your current favourite lipgloss? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Life lately : 25-08-2016

I happy to report that life lately has been nothing but pleasant. It has been stress and drama free (by choice). It has also been a time for travelling, learning new skills and meeting new people.

My family and I recently went on a mini road trip to Grahamstown and it was super relaxing. It felt amazing to be away from the hustle and bustle of work and to enjoy some downtime with the people I love the most.

Ofcourse, there were a few bumps in the road. I found out some rather disappointing (and unexpected ) news but, I see now that that was just God's way of preparing me for something much better. I'm planning a little giveaway on my blog soon and I'm very excited. Keep an eye on my pages for the details. That's  it for now. I hope you enjoy this post.

Xylon and I had the best time in Grahamstown!

Always time for a selfie. Love this dress!

My favourite people!

I  am always looking for ways to spice up my work uniform.

Literally glowing with my family. 

Sourcing inspiration for my blog.

I love testing new products.

What I am currently reading. 

Hope you enjoyed this post. I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!