Disclaimer * Note Legali

Thursday, October 28, 2010

fotd with a blue twist. and a quick review: KIKO nuovi ombretti ad alta pigmentazione

 
I wore this make-up last Saturday when going out with my boyfriend.
I was wearing a blue and black dress I got in London (love the UK fashion) and I thought I should match my make-up to it in some way. What better way than using my Layla Lash Art mascara in blue?! The amazing mascara you have already seen here.
Please just ignore the blemishes on my face. I have a hormonal breakout at the moment, and acne is hitting.
I try to mask this mess using trusty foundations and my Madina Talc Free Loose Powder, but sometimes you can still see it (less obvious than it is).


For  this look I have use the new formulation of Ombretto ad Alta Pigmentazione (High Pigmentation Eyeshadow) from KIKO.
As far as I can tell, the color pay-off is definitely worthy, so for € 4,90 it is quite a bargain.
However, on an oily lid (like mine) this will not last 12 hours as the claim says. I did my friend's make-up with them, and she has a slightly drier lid, and it lasted long without creasing (not 12 hrs though!).
So just know, if you have an oily lid: wear a primer!

Per questo look ho usato la nuova formulazione degli Ombretti ad Alta Pigmentazione di KIKO
Da quel che ho potuto constatare la scrivenza è decisamente buona, quindi per € 4,90 è un affare.
Ad ogni modo, su una palpebra tendente al grasso (come la mia) questo tipo di ombretto non rimane 
12 ore come dice la pubblicità.
Ho truccato la mia amica con questi ombretti e lei ha una palpebra più secca; su di lei è durato a lungo senza fare le pieghette (non 12 ore però!).
Quindi, se avete una palpebra grassa: mettete una base!




Products used

FACE
Madina Milano  Absolutely Ageless Foundation
Madina Milano Talc Free Loose Powder
Madina Milano Sensual All Over
Madina Milano Bivalva Extreme Blusher 13

EYES
UDPP
KIKO Ombretto ad Alta Pigmentazione 118 (beige seta perlato)
KIKO Ombretto ad Alta Pigmentazione 121 (tortora matte)
Shiseido Cream Eyeliner
KIKO Dual Glam 07 (aqua) on the lower lashline
KIKO Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadow in blu notte on the waterline
KIKO Luxurious Lashes Mascara
Layla Milano Lash Art mascara in blue

LIPS
Ellis Faas Milky Lips L205

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Complexion perfection series: Madina Milano Talc Free Powder review



*WARNING: the colors in these pictures appear much lighter than in real life. It's due to the neon lights (one of them is broken) in my bedroom . // i colori di queste foto sono molto più chiari che dal vivo. E' dovuto alle luci (una si è fulminata) al neon della mia camera.*

Some weeks ago, I was sent some things to try from one of my favorite brands ever: MADINA MILANO.
Mainly, they sent me face products for my quest for "complexion perfection".
Firstly, I want to review their TALC FREE LOOSE POWDER, because this product has literally gave me an addiction!

Qualche settimana fa mi son stati inviati alcuni prodotti da testare da una delle mie marche preferite: MADINA MILANO. Mi hanno spedito praticamente tutti prodotti per il viso, per la mia ricerca della pelle perfetta (complexion perfection, che in Inglese rende di più perché c'è la rima). Innanzitutto, vi parlerò della loro TALC FREE LOOSE POWDER, perché sono ormai letteralmente dipendente da questa cipria.

The presentation: TALC FREE LOOSE POWDER has a big jar which contains 23,5 grams. It comes with a puff, and a little black purse. The cap of this jar is made of "siliconic" plastic, almost like the Nars packaging.
The shade I was sent is 203 - the color corresponds with what you see in the picture above, just a little more vivid. Do not pay attention to the shade in the swatch, because the picture is way too light. OK?

TALC FREE LOOSE POWDER si presenta in una confezione molto grande, che contiene 23,5 grammi. Inclusi ci sono la spugnetta e una pochettina nera. Il tappo della confezione è fatto di plastica "siliconica" (?), per intenderci come il packaging di Nars o i Coloursphere KIKO. La tonalità che mi è stata spedita è la 203 - il colore corrisponde a quello che si vede nella foto qui sopra, solo un po' più vivido. Non fate caso al colore che vedrete nelle foto sotto, perché sono troppo chiare, OK?

As its name suggests, this is a mineral finishing powder free of talc, therefore it is very light and it is invisible on the skin.
This means that it will never look cakey, and will never clog your pores and make them appear more obvious than they really are (and this happens with lots of powders!)
On the contrary, this powder masks every pore you have on your skin, due to the lack of talc, and it also ensures a very silky finish that helps hiding your blemishes.
How do you use this? - You can use this powder as a finishing powder, after you have applied your base, contour and blush, to even out problem areas and disguise pores/blemishes. Alternatively, you can use this alone, when you have no major problem in your skin, and you just want to hide your pores.

Come dice il nome stesso, questa è una cipria minerale totalmente priva di talco,
perciò molto leggera e invisibile sulla pelle.
Questo significa che non farà mai l'effetto mascherone e non ostruirà mai i pori
rendendoli molto più evidenti di quanto siano in realtà (una cosa che
succede con tantissime ciprie!).
Al contrario, questa cipria maschera ogni poro, grazie all'assenza di talco,
e assicura un effetto setoso che aiuta a nascondere i difettucci (leggi "brufolazzi).
Come la si usa? - La si può usare sia come cipria per fissare il trucco, dopo aver applicato la base, contouring e fard, per uniformare le aree problematiche con le aree pulite, e mascherare pori/eventuali difetti. Alternativamente, la si può sare da sola, quando non si hanno grandi difetti e si vogliono solo mascherare i pori.

My vote: 5/5 +!
The best part? It only costs € 9,90 and can be purchased online here (or if you are in Milan in their stores)

Il mio voto è 10 e lode!
La cosa migliore? Il fatto che costi solo € 9,90 e può essere acquistata online cliccando qui
(o se siete a Milano, nei loro negozi)


The pictures below show how invisible the powder becomes when buffed into the skin.


Le foto qui sotto mostrano come questa cipria diventi invisibile se sfumata sulla pelle.

*aweful picture, poor lighting*

*shaky hands, slightly out of focus picture, but you get my drift. The powder is invisible*


THANKS TO THE LOVELY ANTONELLA
FROM MADINA MILANO
WHO KINDLY SENT ME THIS DRUG PRODUCT TO REVIEW.
Please never discontinue this powder!!!

Check out her blog here.
She makes wonderful looks!

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

The Body Shop Smoke and Fire A/W collection - review and swatches

At the beginning of October I received some products from the new The Body Shop's collection, Smoke and Fire.
Inspired by the intense and natural colors of the Earth in its changing season, and by the dark shades of the autumnal skies, this collection is all about nude/neutral lips, and smoky eyes with a glowing skin.

All'inizio di Ottobre ho ricevuto in omaggio questi prodotti della nuova collezione di The Body Shop, la Smoke and Fire.
La collezione, che trae ispirazione dai naturali colori della Terra al cambio di stagione, e dalle scure tonalità dei carichi cieli autunnali,
questa collezione è incentrata su labbra color carne/neutre, e smoky eyes
contorniati da una pelle radiosa.

CHEEK AND FACE POWDER (€ 18,00)
(pictured above, shade 01 Chestnut- pictured below shade 02, Berry)

The presentation is certainly pretty: maple leaves (I think) all over, a blend of four shimmery and highly pigmented colors that you can swirl together to use as a blusher, or they can be used individually to highlight some parts of yor face.
That's not just it, I think that these powders are so pigmented that you can use them as metallic eyeshadows! *EDIT: I have actually used them to blend Urban Decay's Misdemeanor in the crease, and it is just gorgeous!*

L'aspetto è carinissimo: foglie d'acero (penso) tutte intorno alla polvere,
una combinazione di quattro colori perlati e altamente pigmentati
che possono essere usati tutti insieme come fard, oppure individualmente per illuminare alcune parti del viso.
Non solo: queste polveri son così pigmentate che si possono usare come
ombretti metallizzati!
*MODIFICA: le ho usate per sfumare il
Misdemeanor di Urban Decay nella piega palpebrale e sono veramente meravigliose!*


These powders are also very long lasting, and my only gripe with them is, I think, that being so shimmery they are not suitable for every skin tone. I would not recommend them for people who have an oily skin. To people who (like me) have a combination skin, I would suggest an application on the sides of the cheekbones rather than on the apples.
That is because I find that the shimmers make pores appear more obvious.
Chestnut is bronzy and on the orangy side, while Berry is such a pretty plummy pink which leaves the skin looking "autumnally healthy" (yes, I made that up).

Queste polveri sono anche molto durevoli, e la sola cosa che non mi piace,
penso sia il fatto che, essendo così perlate, non sono adatte a tutti i tipi di pelle.
Non le raccomanderei alle persone che hanno una pelle oleosa.
A coloro che (come me) hanno una pelle mista, suggerisco l'applicazione ai bordi e non direttamente sui pomelli delle guance.
Questo perché trovo che le perle di colore facciano apparire
i pori più larghi.
Chestnut è un bronzo tendente all'arancione, mentre Berry è un bel rosa tendente al prugna che lascia la pelle "autunnalmente sana" (sì, l'ho inventato questo termine).

L: EYESHADOW IN 41 - PEACH; R: CHEEK AND FACE POWDER IN BERRY

The eyeshadow impressed me. Now, apart from the color, which is really cute, the consistency is lovely!
The powder is very compact, yet velvety to the touch. Great color pay-off and blendability.
Peach is so cute that it can be used as a highlighter as well.
The retail price is € 9.00 and I highly recommend this (match it with a red lippie for total gorgeousness!)

L'ombretto mi ha lasciata stupefatta. Ora, a parte il colore, che è davvero carino, la consistenza è adorabile!
Sebbene la polvere sia compatta, è vellutata al tatto. Una grande scrivenza e sfumabilità.
Peach è un colore così carino che può essere usato anche come illuminante.
Il prezzo di vendita è di € 9.00 e lo raccomendo caldamente (provate ad abbinarlo con un rossetto rosso, è meraviglioso)

EYELINER KAJAL
(L -R: Charcoal, Evergreen, Steel)

This is one of those kajals that come in a tube. It has a formulation rich in natural waxes (sourced with Fair Trade) and pigments.
Its shape is ideal to draw your liner rapidly, thick or thin, you'll always get this right. Although I wonder what the shape will be when the product will be almost over.
It is also great to smoke out your look, as the pigments are very blendable.
It retails for € 10.00 - which is a bit on the pricey side, I know, but it is indeed a nice and versatile product.

Questo è uno di quei kajal che hanno la confezione simile ai rossetti.
Il prodotto ha una formula ricca di cere naturali (reperite tramite Commercio Equo) e pigmenti.
E' ideale per contorniare rapidamente gli occhi, con linee spesse o fini, sarà difficile sbagliare.
Anche se mi chiedo che forma avrà quando l'avrò quasi finito.
E' anche un bel prodotto per fare gli smoky eyes, visto il pigmento è altamente sfumabile.
Il prezzo di vendita è di € 10.00, un po' sul caro, lo so,
ma è decisamente un buon prodotto versatile.


SWATCHES
TOP ROW:
CHEEK AND FACE POWDER IN CHESTNUT, EYESHADOW IN PEACH, CHEEK AND FACE POWDER IN BERRY.
BOTTOM ROW:
KAJALS IN BLACK, EVERGREEN, STEEL.

AVAILABILITY:
The Body Shops across your country
or on their websites (some countries have an online store)
DISPONIBILITA':
nei negozi The Body Shop (anche se mi è stato detto che alcuni non sono ben forniti)
oppure sul loro sito Italiano c'è uno store online!


Have you tried anything from this collection yet?
Do you think you will be buying something?


*DISCLAIMER: products in this post were provided by PR for reviewing consideration*

Friday, October 22, 2010

Clarins Rouge Prodige collection: Rouge Prodige Lipstick & Instant Blush -review and swatches

DIVINE PACKAGING ANYONE?!
Ok this first picture was just a teaser for you :)
As you could tell from the picture (and from the title) I am going to review some items from the latest Clarins' collection, called Rouge Prodige.

PACKAGING DIVINAMENTE STUPENDO, EH?!
Ok, questa prima foto era un teaser.
Come potete vedere da essa (e dal titolo) questa sarà una recensione sull'ultima collezione di Clarins, che chiama Rouge Prodige.

Clarins is a brand I have always relied on for special occasions: I have worn their make-up for job interviews, my boyfriend's graduation, MY GRADUATION, and whenever I do that, I get compliments.
Whenever I want to be perfectly chic, I wear Clarins.

Clarins è sempre stata una marca su cui faccio affidamento per le occasioni speciali:
Ho indossato i loro prodotti per vari colloqui di lavoro, per la laurea del mio ragazzio e per la MIA laurea. Ogni volta che uso prodotti Clarins ricevo complimenti.
Quando voglio essere chic e perfetta indosso Clarins.

The Rouge Prodige Collection hasn't disappointed me. Now, first off, the collection is named after their new lipsticks (€ 22,00 - although you can find them for less in some stores). Yes, the ones you see in all of these pictures, with that luxurious, golden, mirror-like packaging.
The formulation of these lipsticks contains a polymer patented as "High Fidelity Pearl", which (long story short) is extremely pigmented and ensures durability.
The Rouge Prodige lipsticks have rich texture that also provides hydration.
I am talking about real hydration, not a SENSATION (make-believe) of hydration given by paraffin. That means that you will not feel a cream film on your lips, but just softness.

La collezione Rouge Prodige non mi ha delusa.
Questa collezione è stata battezzata col nome dei nuovi rossetti (€ 22,00 - anche se è possibile trovarli a meno in alcuni negozi), gli stessi che vedete in tutte le foto, con quel packaging extra-lusso, dorato e specchiato.
La formulazione di questi rossetti contiene un polymero brevettato come "High Fidelity Pearl", che (per farla breve) è estremamente pigmentato e assicura una lunga durata.
I rossetti Rouge Prodige hanno una texture ricca che idrata.
E parlo di vera idratazione qui, non di una banale SENSAZIONE (cioè una falsa idratazione) d'idratazione data dalla paraffina.
Questo significa che non si avverte un film di crema sulle labbra, ma solo morbidezza.


They will polish the lips, even the most partched, and lasts long (long to me is even 2 - 3 hours, because I often drink, and being a teacher I talk a lot and lipsticks always fade).
They contain a list of top quality ingredients, and have a gorgeous raspberry scent!

Levigano le labbra, anche le più disidratate, e durano tanto ( tanto per me significa anche 2 o 3 ore, perché io bevo spesso e poi, essendo una professoressa, parlo tantissimo e il rossetto mi va sempre via).
Contengono una lista di ingredienti di qualità e hanno un bellissimo profumo di lampone!

Clarins has divided its shades in four categories, for these lipsticks/Clarins ha diviso le tonalità in 4 categorie (è molto più facile raccapezzarsi in questo modo)
102 - 114 = Pink - Plum / Rosa - Prugna
116 - 121 = Coral - Red / Corallo - Rosso
122 - 129 = Nude - Brown / Carne - Marrone

Every woman should find a suitable shade among these! (and yes, I have realized they are missing the 115)

Ognuna dovrebbe trovare una tonalità di suo gusto tra tutte queste!
(e sì, mi son resa conto che manca il 115)

Now the ones that have been sent to me are:
Ora, questi son i rossetti che mi son stati inviati:


103 - Miami Pink, 111 - Raspberry Sorbet, 118 - Clementine, 120 - Fusion Red, 122 - Nude

Swatches (natural light - colors are more vibrant in real life. They are exactly how you see in the tube)
103 - Miami Pink (more vibrant), 111 - Raspberry Sorbet (gorgeous soft red, with goldens sparkles), 118 - Clementine, 120 - Fusion Red, 122 - Nude (again, it shows up more on the lips)


There is also another product that has been sent to me: the Instant Blush (€ 18,00) (LE).
Containing vitamin E, sunflower oil, and wax, this magic blush is a cream that reacts to your own skin, changing its shade to adapt to everyone's skintone.
How gorgeous is that?
It is the perfect blush on every occasion, plus it is also the perfect blush you want to carry with you at work, or on a trip.
Compact, and creamy you will be able to apply it without a mirror, just by tapping your finger on the apples of your cheeks.
I always use this when I do my make-up on the train (hello, early morning commuting!)
I thought it was useless to swatch it, as it reacts differently on everyone's skin, but look out for my fotd's as I often wear it.

C'è anche un altro prodotto che mi è stato inviato: L'Instant Blush (€ 18,00).
Contiene vitamina E, olio di girasole e cere, ed è un fard in crema magico, che reagisce a contatto con la pelle, cambiando tonalità per adattarsi alla tonalità di pelle di ognuno.
Quant'è stupendo?
E' il fard perfetto per ogni occasione, soprattutto da portare con sé al lavoro, o in viaggio.
Compatto e cremoso, è facile da stendere anche senza specchio, solamente picchiettando il dito sul pomello delle guance.
Lo uso sempre quando mi trucco sul treno (w i pendolari!).
Ho pensato che fosse inutile fare uno swatch, perché reagisce in maniera differente su ogni pele, ma guardate i miei fotd's perché lo uso spesso.


There is another product that has really caught my eye in this collection, which is the Palette Prodige, a gorgeous compact powder palette, consisting of 5 different colours that can be used all swirled together or singularly to sculpt your whole face (including the eyes).
Take a look at that here.

C'è un altro prodotto che ha catturato la mia attenzione in questa collezione:
la Palette Prodige, una palette di polveri compatte, contenente 5 diversi colori che posso essere utilizzati tutti insieme, oppure singolarmente per scolpire tutto il viso (compresi gli occhi)
Potete ammirarla qui.

Now, if you've had the patience to read through all this post, tell me: have you tried something from this collection?
Are you a Clarins fan too?

Ora, se avete avuto la pazienza di leggere tutto questo post, ditemi: avete provato qualcosa di questa collezione?
Siete anche voi delle fan di Clarins?


*disclaimer: products sent by PR for reviewing consideration*

News: your own personal spa with Bliss

Thank God it's FRIDAYYYYY!
I can finally manage to write and publish some posts!

First in the row is definitely a post about new products from Bliss.
If you don't already know, I simply love the brand. Expensive? Much! But worth it? Definitely!

So here are some new products I would spend my salary on without feeling any buyer's remorse (if only I could...I will get my salary when my courses will be over, so that means after January 2011):

BLISS TRIPLE OXYGEN TRIO
This set of must-have oxygen products includes the basics for simulating our #1 facial's skin-reviving results at home. These all-star glow-getters boost depleted oxygen levels in dull, sallow skin to kick-start a brighter, fresher, more radiant complexion.

Includes full sizes of:
bliss triple oxygen instant energizing mask, to revive blah-looking skin in 5 minutes flat
bliss triple oxygen instant energizing eye mask, to perk up pooped peepers
bliss triple oxygen+c energizing cream, to hydrate, brighten and promote collagen


Oh how I need that Instant Energizing Eye Mask! *day dreaming of an eye depuffing session*
This set is now on offer on the site for $ 144 (which is a damn lot, I have to admit. I don't know if I could ever afford that. However, I found out that there is another option on the site, called the Blast Set, retailing for $ 84)

BLISS - EAU DE TOILETTE

This is marketed as "an in-‘spa’-rational scent.
Bliss Spa began with a simple mission: to deliver the best possible feeling in the world. This signature ‘scent’-iment—which literally permeates our spas—inspired our eponymous eau de toilette. A fresh, mood-boosting medley of vibrant bergamot, dewy cucumber, and bright florals like lily, ylang ylang and violet, this unique blend is light enough to be your signature spritz—but exceptional enough to wear on special occasions. In simple speak, it’s our spa in a bottle. (Need we ‘spray’ more?)
  • top notes: bergamot, dewy greens, cucumber
  • mid notes: lily, ylang ylang
  • base note: violet".
Packaging is indeed attractive, but also the choice of notes is. I definitely look forward to trying this.
I see bergamot is a very popular choice this autumn/winter. Which is good, because I love it.

The perfum retails for $ 54 and is already available on the blissworld.com site (there is also an option for value sets including the Bliss Eau de Toilette + shower gels/body butters)!

Let me know if you have already tried any of these products :)

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Eldora False Eyelashes Review

Eldora is a British based brand that sells a selection of more than 200 different pairs of false eyelashes.
Browsing their official website is a glimpse into falsies heaven: you can choose natural looking lashes, dramatic, the "diamante black", colored lashes, fabric, individual, carnival lashes and many more.

Eldora è un marchio britannico specializzato nella vendita di ciglia finte, con addirittura 200 paia tra cui scegliere.
Sfogliare il loro sito ufficiale è come dare un'occhiata al paradiso delle ciglia finte:
ciglia effetto naturale, drammatiche, le "diamante black", ciglia colorate, di tessuto, individuali, le cosiddette "carnival" (coloratissime e dalle forme più svariate) e tante altre.

Obviously, when I was offered to try two pairs, I was on cloud nine (sense a theme, here?)

Ovviamente, quando mi è stato offerto di provare due paia di queste ciglia
mi son sentita al settimo cielo (per rimanere in tema)

Now, I'm going to have two different reviews, as the two pairs are really different from one another.
Let's start with...

Ora, farò due recensioni separate perché le due paia di ciglia sono molto diverse l'una dall'altra.
Iniziamo con...
DIAMANTE BLACK - D145

Full strip lashes, very dramatic, full and thick, black with glitters all over them.
They could be the perfect pair for a clubbing night, paired with ANY sexy make-up.
Why do I use the modal "could"? Because they are very hard to apply.
This is what prevents me from raving about these particular lashes: tricky application.
The strip is not elastic enough, it's one of those strips that tend to be horizontal whether than circular (I don't know if you gave you the idea of it).
I would not recommend these lashes to people who, like me are "falsies beginners".

Ciglia intere, molto drammatiche, voluminose e piene, nere con glitter.
Sarebbero perfette per una serata in discoteca, abbinate con qualsiasi look sensuale.
Perché uso il condizionale? Perché la loro applicazione è complicatissima.
Questo è fondamentalmente il motivo che mi impedisce di dare un giudizio positivo di queste ciglia: la loro applicazione complicatissima.
La striscia non è abbastanza elastica, è una di quelle strisce che tendono ad restare orizzontali, piuttosto che di forma circolare (non so se ho reso l'idea).
Non raccomanderei queste ciglia per chi, come me, è ancora un principiante con le ciglia finte.



BLACK SYNTHESIS - B160

Again, full strip lashes, with a lovely particular shape, almost feathery.
This part definitely has a different, higher quality than the previous one: the strip is quite elastic, and it will always get back to its naturally circular shape.
The lashes themselves are also a bit glossy, which adds more drama and peculiarity to them.
You may have seen me wearing these lashes here.
These lashes are also great for a night out, they are also easy to clean afterwards and can be re-used.
These ones are a definite recommend, especially as the Eldora False Eyelashes (oh, and I forgot to add, they are handmade) retail for only £ 3.90. Sometimes they also have sales, and they're just £ 2.90!!
I haven't tried the glue that comes with the lashes, as I always rely on my DUO, but when I run out of it, I may try it.

Anche queste ciglia sono intere, con una particolarissima forma, quasi un effetto "piumato".
Queste hanno decisamente una qualità molto più alta delle precedenti: la striscia su cui poggiano le ciglia è molto più elastica e tornerà sempre alla sua forma circolare.
Queste ciglia sono anche abbastanza lucide, il che gli conferisce più dramma e peculiarità.
Forse mi avete vista portare queste ciglia in questo post.
Questo paio è adattissimo per una serata particolare, è anche molto facile da pulire dopo l'utilizzo e quindi si presta ad essere riutilizzato.
Queste le raccomando decisamente, specialmente perché le ciglia finte Eldora (oh, ed ho dimenticato di aggiungere che son fatte a mano) costano solo £ 3.90.
Ogni tanto fanno sconti su alcune paia, che vengono vendute a £ 2.90.
Non ho provato la colla inclusa con le ciglia, perché mi fido sempre solo della DUO, ma quando finirò potrei anche provarla.

The Eldora lashes can be purchased on their official site, which again is www.eldorashop.co.uk
And they provide fast delivery too (next day UK delivery is available for £ 4.95, and international shipping is provided for £ 4.90)!

Le ciglia Eldora si acquistano sul loro sito originale che, vi ricordo, è www.eldorashop.co.uk
La spedizione è sempre molto rapida (è possibile anche scegliere la Next Day UK delivery per £ 4.95, ed è disponibile anche la spedizione internazionale per £ 4.90)!!

I might try some more of their lashes soon ;) they're too cute!

Ne proverò quasi certamente altre presto ;) sono troppo carine!!!

Tutte le novità KIKO...o quasi

Salve a tutte,
oggi un post tutto in Italiano per aggiornarvi sulle ultime novità di casa KIKO.

Prima di tutto, le novità riguardano le labbra. Dopo l'uscita dei nuovi gloss rimpolpanti (recensione a breve, li uso quasi tutti i giorni!) ed il successo del loro Lip Balm spf 15, KIKO continua a puntare sulle labbra con la nuova linea Lip Care: 3 prodotti mirati per la cura delle labbra.

Nei dettagli:

- Lip Relief: balsamo labbra intensivo con SPF 15, uno stick creato per lenire secchezze e screpolature delle labbra. Prezzo 5,90 €

- Night Balm: trattamento nutriente notturno, un balsamo riparatore per labbra morbide e nutrite al risveglio. Prezzo 5,90 €

- Lip Volume: crema labbra rimpolpante e nutriente per labbra più turgide, come rimodellate. Prezzo 6,90 €

DeDecisamente interessanti i primi due prodotti, con l'inverno che incalza (e il freddo vento che spira in Sardegna) le mie labbra si screpolano quasi sempre se non metto qualcosa sopra per proteggerle. Nella fattispecie, quando sono col mio ragazzo - il quale non ama le macchie di rossetto e detesta assolutamente i lucidi - il balsamo per le labbra diventa un elemento importantissimo!


MMa non è finita qui: KIKO vuole farci raggiungere la perfezione. Come? Ovviamente iniziando dalla pelle, la vera e propria base per un aspetto radioso.

Tre nuovi prodotti per il trucco del viso sono già disponibili sul sito e saranno presto anche in tutti i punti vendita monomarca KIKO:

3D Lifting Foundation SPF 15: fondotinta levigante effetto lifting con formula arricchita all’ acido ialuronico ed estratto di microalga. Un prodotto multi-performante per un incarnato fresco, radioso e disteso nell'immediato e nel tempo. Prezzo 14,50 €

- 3D Lifting Concealer SPF 10: correttore fluido effetto lifting con attivi drenanti e agenti soft focus. Una texture modellabile a media coprenza per mimetizzare ogni imperfezione e traccia di stanchezza. Prezzo 7,50 €

- Soft Light Powder: cipria minerale formulata al 90% con ingredienti di origine naturale. Contiene pigmenti micronizzati ed estratti minerali preziosi, per regalare al viso un tocco di colore impalpabile e un finish naturale. Adatta a tutti i tipi di pelle, anche le più secche e segnate. Prezzo 11,90 €


Vorrei anche farvi notare che ci sono ben dieci tonalità di fondotinta tra cui scegliere. Ottimo no?!

Non vedo l'ora di provare questi prodotti, e voi? Li avete già acquistati/provati?

Fatemi sapere nei commenti.


Viricordo che i prodotti KIKO si possono acquistare dal loro sito ufficiale e presso i loro punti vendita MONOMARCA.


xoxo,

LYd





E




Monday, October 18, 2010

Readers Appreciation Giveaway - with Sleek and Layla products *CLOSED*

I was going to post this a while ago, when I reached my 400 subscribers, but life got in the middle, you know...
This is a readers appreciation giveaway, as I am now nearly 500 subscribers and I want to thank each and everyone of you for reading me, taking the time to comment, etc :)
Your support means a lot to me!
As you can see, the prizes are all from Sleek and Layla Cosmetics (an Italian brand you have seen me using a lot recently).
The Layla products were KINDLY offered by the gorgeous Babila, on the behalf of Layla Milano Cosmetics, which I need to thank a lot!!!
I apologize for the bag of tissues, notes, and books you can spot on my pictures...ill teacher here! :)

Questo giveaway l'avrei dovuto fare un po' di tempo fa, quando raggiunsi i 400 iscritti qui sul blog, ma le faccende giornaliere mi hanno messo i bastoni fra le ruote, sapete com'è...
Questo è in realtà un giveaway di ringraziamento, ora che son vicina ai 500 iscritti vi voglio ringraziare tutte/i per trovare sempre il tempo di leggere il mio blog, commentare etc.
Il vostro supporto significa molto per me!
Come potete vedere i premi sono tutti firmati Sleek e Layla Cosmetics.
I prodotti Layla sono stati gentilmente offerti dalla meravigliosa Babila, in nome della Layla, che devo ringraziare tantissimo!!!
*mi scuserete per il pacchetto di fazzoletti, gli appunti delle lezioni e i libri che si intravvedono nelle foto...qui c'è un'insegnante malata! :) *


Now, on to close ups of the prizes:

1. Sleek the Original Palette
2. Layla Graffiti Top Coat (review coming soon, it was the first topcoat of this type to even be sold worldwide, works like Barry M Effects but WAAAY BETTER) in red
3. Layla Miracle Shine lipstick in 1 (nude)
4 and 5. Layla Glitter Eyeshadow (silver and pink)

6. Layla Miracle gloss (super glossy, not sticky, hydrating, good coverage, great staying power) in 2 (perlescent hot pink)
7. Glitter in Gloss in 1 (this is wonderful, clear with loads of glitters, super glossy)
8. Layla Creamy Eyeshadow (golden, long lasting cream eyeshadow)
9. Layla Sparkle Eyeshadow in 9 (super sparkly, so gorgeous, and perfect for smoky eyes on a night out)
10. Layla Pure Eyeshadow in 5 (a violet pigment with lots of reflex)
11. Layla Fard Compatto (a compact pink blusher - great payoff, and long lasting on the cheeks, not chalky at all)

HOW TO ENTER:

1. must reside in the Europe
2. must be a follower of this blog
3. must browse my fotd or eotd section (get on the labels and just press the option) and tell me what your favorite is, and why.

4. for one extra entry: blog about this giveaway and send another comment with your referral link (alternatively, post this on your sidebar)
5. for a second extra entry ( so that makes 3 entries for all) tweet about this giveaway, and of course put a link with your referral on the comments
6. must be at list 18 y.o.

This giveaway is opened until November 18th, 2010 (midnight Italian time)
Just remember to follow the rules carefully.
Any comment that does not follow the rules will be discarded.

I will select ONE lucky winner with www.random.org

Good luck everyone!

COME PARTECIPARE:
1. Dovete essere residente di un paese dell'Unione Europea
2. Dovete essere iscritte a questo blog
3. Dovete andare sulle tag del blog (son sotto "labels") e selezionare fotd o eotd, scegliere quale trucco tra quelli che ho fatto vi piace di più, e scrivermi nel commento qual è e perché.

4. se Volte un'entry extra fate un post su questo giveaway, e scrivete un commento con il link del post che avete scritto (in alternativa, mettete un link al concorso nella vostra sidebar).
5. per un'ulteriore entry extra (quindi sarebbero 3 in totale, se le fate tutte) spargete la parola su twitter e ovviamente scrivetemi nei commenti anche il link con il riferimento.
6. Dovete avere almeno 18 anni

Il giveaway è aperto fino al 18 Novembre a mezzanotte ora italiana.
Ricordatevi di seguire le regole, perché ogni
commento che non sia conforme alle regole non verrà preso in considerazione.

Sceglierò UNA fortunata vincitrice usando www.random.org

Buona fortuna a tutte! ;)



Sunday, October 17, 2010

A very useful post to all beauty blogger - spread the word

I want to invite you all to read the great post Sesame, from Viva Woman, wrote yesterday.
It concerns the many issues related to bloggers and brands' PR's. Not to mention, it also covers the subject of bloggers who blog JUST because they enjoy "the perks" of it, which I am very sensitive to.

I encourage you to read it, read the comments, and comment yourself.
Also, I would be glad if you could spread the word about it, because this post is somewhat a manifesto for all of us (or at least, the ones who enjoy freedom of speech on their own spaces).

Click here, and enjoy the reading.

Bronze Prodige: and fotd using Clarins, Madina, Ellis Faas, and many more

If you are wondering why the title, it's soon to be said: it was inspired by the colors, and the new, gorgeous collection from Clarins, ROUGE PRODIGE.
The lipstick I am wearing is, in fact, part of this collection.
A full review of the products I own from this collection is coming soon.

Se vi state chiedendo il perché del titolo, è presto detto:
è stato ispirato dai colori del trucco e dalla nuova, bellissima collezione di Clarins: ROUGE PRODIGE.
Il rossetto che indosso in queste foto, infatti, fa parte di questa collezione.
Una recensione completa dei prodotti di questa collezione che sono in mio possesso ora arriverà presto.


PRODUCTS USED:

FACE
Benefit the POREfessional job as a base on the cheeks
Madina Milano Light Foundation*
Madina Milano Exact Colour Bronzer
Madina Milano Bivalva Extreme blusher in ...12? I can't remember.

EYES:
Ellis Faas Light e/s in E303 (golden bronze, all over the lid)*
Cargo bronze e/s from the Baja palette(crease)*
Cargo bronze-taupe e/s from the Baja palette (outer V)*
Smashbox dark bronze (outer v and crease) - it's from a quad, has no name.
Smashbox light yellow e/s from the Smashbox quad (inner corner and highlighter)
KIKO Dual Glam liner (brown)*
Ellis Faas mascara*

For the brows: some e/s from the Sleek Chaos palette

LIPS
KIKO automatic Lip Pencil from the Siberian Flowers collection in 05*
Clarins Rouge Prodige lipstick in Raspberry Sorbet*

Hope you like this ;)

*disclaimer: products marked with an * were provided by PR for consideration

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Question: do you line your lips?

There was a time when I was a bigtime lipgloss girl.
At that time, lipstick - along with concealer - was the only item in my make-up bag that didn't get much love.

Over the past year and a half, two things changed my way: a. my boyfriend; b. blogging.
My boyfriend literally hates lipgloss. As he's one of those cuddly and loving man, he kisses me a lot and he can't stand the stickiness of lipglosses. I can sense that, when he tries to kiss me, but detects a gloss, he changes his route and reaches for my cheeks.
Blogging has also changed me, as I have discovered so many new lipsticks, those that do not feel drying on the lips, and so many wonderful shades to play with.

Now that I am a big lipstick lover, I discovered something about myself:
My teeth are not straight (there was a time when they were, but my ex dentist has ruined me, but that's another story), and that results in my lips being completely asymetric.
As I love me a red, plum, or black cherry lipstick, this is a big problem to me.
And this is how I turned to lip liners. Where have they been all of my life?
What was I thinking when I didn't use to line my lips?

Lining your lips does really help in getting the right shape, and also, it helps the lipstick last more.

What is your take on that?

Friday, October 15, 2010

M.A.C. Shale FOTD



Please never mind my horrible skin at the moment!
I shall be on the pill again from next month.... :(

PRODUCTS USED:

FACE:
Benefit Some Kind-a Gorgeous foundation (review to come soon)
Benefit Lemon Aid + Boing Concealer
Benefit High Beam
Madina Milano Sensual beauty all over to contour*
Sleek MakeUP blush in Flamingo

EYES
UDPP
MAC Shale all over the lid
Madina Milano Bivalva Smart Eyeshadow (light taupe) on the inner corner
Smashbox bordeaux e/s (don't know the name of it, it's in a quad) on the outer corner, lower lashline and crease
KIKO Double Glam Eyeliner in Plum*
KIKO Luxurious Lashes mascara*
over Layla Milano Base Allungaciglia*
Layla Lash Art mascara in purple on the lower lashes*
KIKO Ombretto ad Alta Pigmentazione n 122 (to blend) and 127 (to highlight)*

LIPS
Soap and Glory Sexy MotherPucker lipgloss in What-a-Melon*

hope you like this!

*Disclaimer: items marked with an * were provided by PR for reviewing consideration

Review: Liz Earle Foot Repair Moisturiser


So here is another Liz Earle review.
This time it is about a product I asked to try and review on the blog, and the lovely Andrea from Liz Earle kindly agreed to send me.

As you may already know, I live on an island where summers are scorching hot, so for 3 months I wear flip flops and sandals to go out. Needless to say, my feet - especially in the heels become really really dry, and I can never help it!
This is why I wanted to try the LIZ EARLE FOOT REPAIR MOISTURISER, a blend of peppermint, rosemary, and 7 other essential oils that finally gave a little relief to my tired, dry feet.
What was particular about it? It is really effective, without being greasy, and the smell is amazing and very rich. Which means your feet always smell nice ;)

Naturally active ingredients include Shea Butter (sourced through an African women's co-operative), softing avocado oil, and wheatgerm oil.

I highly recommend this moisturizer for anyone who, like me, experience dry and aching feet; for those of you who walk a lot and wear a lot of flats or high heels.
It is definitely soothing, and the smell alone is enough to make me purchase it ;)

It comes in a really nice light blue tube with a pump, and retails for £ 12.25 for a 100ml tube, or £ 4.50 for a 15ml tube.

This is definitely a 5/5 for me


Have you ever tried this? Don't you think the smell is amazing?

*Disclaimer: product provided by PR for consideration

Review: Liz Earle Superskin Range

This, my darlings, will be a quick review of two Liz Earle products.
I am sorry I can't write in-depths reviews these days, but I have so many posts that I have to publish, and so little time due to the job, and my grandfather being at the hospital.

The products I will review for you today are:

LIZ EARLE SUPERSKIN BODY CREAM
Retails at £ 27.50 for 200ml (alternatively £ 12,00 for 50ml)

Intensive body moisturizer, made of 25% plant oils, with a rich aroma and formula that hydrates the driest of skins (mine!).
Used everyday for months it has helped my skin looking smooth and plump.
Naturally active ingredients consist of:
East African Shea Butter,
Organic Rosehip oil,
Cranberry Seed and Pomegranade extract (antioxidants),
Vitamin E,
and the gorgeous scent of neroli.

For more information about the ingredients, click here.

I have been using this religiously for more than 3 months now, and I am down to my last sprits.
Very little does a long way with this cream, although I must warn you that if you are going to use this in winter time, you'd rather use this at night, as it needs to be blended very very well before putting clothes on.

So far, this is a definite 5/5 for me.

*PS: due to the very rich aroma, I would not suggest this to pregnant women ;)


SUPERSKIN CONCENTRATE
Retails for £ 37,00 for a 28ml (alternatively, £ 18,00 for a 10ml roller-ball, or £ 5,25 for a 2ml sample)

This is an intense blend of 100% pure plant oils, which are meant to restore your natural hydration overnight.
You can use this everyday or simply as often as needed, and it will definitely help this winter.
I have used this until my freaking acne showed up again (due to being off the pill. And gosh, I will definitely start being on the pill again by next month). Although it is a product targeted to all skin types, the idea of wearing oil on this messy face does not appeal to me.
I can tell you this oil never left my skin feeling greasy, it was very nice and left my skin soft and smooth, but back then my skin was alright to start with! And also, this oil has NEVER broken my skin out!

Naturally active ingredients include:
Argan oil,
Organic Rosehip oils,
Soothing Neroli,
Lavander and Chamomile essential oils,
Vitamin E

For more information about the ingredients, click here.

Although I think the Superskin Concentrate is really overpriced (certainly, not something a student or a part-time worker would afford), I do think it is a lovely product that leaves your skin supple and soft, without making you breakout or feeling oily.
The aroma is also very nice, a great feeling that will concile your sleep.
I also think this product will be more effective on dry skins and mature skins. For them, this should be a HG product!

My rating is 3.5/5 just for the price!

And as a side note, I really need to give credit to Liz Earle for the luxurious packaging.
It is so so cute, but with class ;)

Have you ever tried products from this range? What do you think?

Disclaimer: products provided by PR for reviewing consideration.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Siberian Purple FOTD n 1

Just wanted to post a look I did using the new KIKO Make-up Milano palette, from the Siberian Flowers LE collection.
The palette I have used is called Siberian Purple, and it is - as its name suggests - a palette composed of 5 purple eyeshadows (actually 4 plus a glittery black).

Of course, as usual purples are really hard to photograph, so this isn't an accurate reproduction of what I saw in real life, but you get a drift.

I have used:
all of the four purples in the KIKO Siberian Purple palette,
the Shiseido cream liner,
the KIKO Luxurious lashes mascara (which you can't see here due to the pose, but is a GREAT mascara *review to come*)
the KIKO Double Glam eyeliner (the glittery vibrant purple end, just on the lower lashline).
Madina Luxe Eyeliner in nude,

I will post more looks using this palette, and a full review on that because it truly deserves it!


*disclaimer: KIKO Siberian Purple palette and Luxurious Lashes were provided by PR for reviewing consideration.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

FOTD: Lisa Eldridge inspired


This look was inspired by a beautiful editorial look made by the gorgeous Lisa Eldridge.
Of course mine is not as beautiful as hers, but you get my drift.

You can use a bright matte yellow eyeshadow to create a weareble look.

PRODUCTS USED:
a wash of champagne eyeshadow (any would do)
Shiseido black cream liner,
Layla Eye Art e/s in yellow*
KIKO Luxurious Lashes mascara*
KIKO Mineral Kohl in Intense Violet*


*Disclaimer: products provided by PR's for reviewing consideration

Monday, October 4, 2010

60's make-up revisited




60's make-up I did for the MyMakeupReview's contest (and no, I didn't win LOL)

I can't remember which products I used exactly apart from

Diorskin Nude foundation;
Sleek Bohemian palette;
Red Cherry False eyelashes;
Shiseido cream liner;
Sigma brushes;
MAC Crème d'nude lipstick;
Clarins Rouge Prodige lipstick in Nude;
Clarins Instant Blush from the new collection Rouge Prodige

Enjoy xx

Sunday, October 3, 2010

news from wonderland

Hi everyone,
as you may have noticed I haven't been able to post as much as before in the past month.
The reason for that is that I am commuting a lot, trying to find a job (possibly one that keeps me working at least 5 days on 7 for more than two months!) and thinking about a PhD.

Public transport service in my region is almost inexistant, therefore I am often forced to spend the night at my boyfriend's (LOL not that I'm not happy with it! In fact, I love that...being cuddled until you fall asleep is priceless), which results in me being away for almost 2 days in the end.

Needless to say, that absorbs my time a lot.
I should be starting a teaching job very soon, and I will have to commute at least 2 days a week to do that. That will absorb much time as well.
However, once I know what my schedule is, and I get used to that, and planning my lessons etc, I will be back on the right track, I promise!
I love blogging too much to disappear, so you will have to deal with my *caugh caugh* fabulous self some more.

There are lots of things that I really want to blog about:

- new products: as I have far too many products, I will probably now follow this principle: new products that have amazed me or particularly let me down, will have a full review. Otherwise, i will be making fotd's with those products and mark them with a different font color. And if you happen to like what you see and want a full review, you can leave the request in the comment and I will do that.

- fotd's: been missing posting fotd's way too much!

- exploring winter trends: I think you've all liked my previews post about that as much as I have, therefore I have decided I will blog about that more. Get ready for a 60's make-up trend, neutrals trend (which I will surely make use of at work), and a very interesting variation of smokey eye that I spotted on a magazine! ...and lots of blues!

- new collections

- more tips on make up looks

- foundations: which ones I prefer and how I apply them

- cheap vs expensive make-up products: favorites of mine, ranging from cheap to expensive with short but cohesive reviews.


Also I am opened to requests, so if you have any, just drop a comment.

I am still dieting, although I was a bit bad this week, mostly because commuting left me with zero time to shop for food.

What I have discovered this week is that 1. I dropped one kilogram already; 2. I made a promise not to weight in again until a month has passed. I am afraid I would become too obsessive and miss the main focus; 3. if you start eating less, your body will become used to eat small portions and will not make you starve; 4. I tend to think about food when I am bored, stressed over study, or unsatisfied with my previous meal.

OK this was a very long, boring post, I hope you made it to the end :)

yours faithfully,

Lyd xx

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Eldora False Eyelashes Giveaway Winner!

Hello all,
as promised, I have finally picked a winner for my Eldora False Eyelashes giveaway.
Some of the entries were not valid, therefore I put the number of the valid entries only on random.org, that is 34 (not many, huh?!)

Anyway, winner was comment 19, which corresponds to


Congratulations, darling! I will contact you privately so that I can get your address and send it over to the lovely Ella at Eldora. She will then send your lashes!

Thanks again to everyone who entered the giveaway, and look out for another giveaway that is coming soon, featuring Sleek and Layla products!
It will be a big one this time!

Bye for now,
Lyd