The Makeup Menu…

Having promised a number of blog buddies that I would partake in a review or FOTD post featuring ‘thee’ Chanel lippy… yes, the one I won a few weeks back through Anne’s exciting give-away! I thought it would be a bit more aptly suited to just go the whole hog and do a full on a-la-carte Makeup Menu. Are you sitting comfy ladies? Then let’s started…

FACE:

 

Before I jump right in… as most of you know, I’m a huge fan of Olay products so my face was sparkly clean thanks to Olay Facial Scrub, Olay refreshing toner and a little swipe of Dove Pro-Age moisturising cream. I’ve tried various primers and nothing seems to work as well on my face as the Dove prior to foundation application – so throwing all caution to the wind (and defying the laws of the Beauty Kingdom) I’m rebelling and sticking to a lotion that’s not even designed to serve the purpose I’m using it for *tut tut*

*L’Oreal Infallible Foundation in 125 Natural Rose *

This is a VERY recent purchase but OH MY GEE WHIZZ it’s bloomin’ marvellous. This is a gorgeous everyday foundation that works perfectly for me. If you like a flawless full coverage that doesn’t feel too heavy on the skin then look no further chums, and it smells absolutely diiiiiiivine. Think a floral tutti fruity if you will *Ahhhh*

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*Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Translucent*

I’ll admit I’ve never been a fan of pressed powders or even an overall matte look when it comes to makeup, I much more prefer that natural sheen rather than wanting to dull it down. However on days that I’m either filming a video or going out and want my makeup to last the duration this powder gives a lovely soft finish without tampering with the tone or completely omitting the dewy glow if applied lightly enough.

 Special thanks to the lovely Katie over at Plus Beauty for recommending it!

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*Rimmel Sun kissed Bronzer*

After receiving this from the fab folks at Direct Cosmetics to try, I have to say I’ve found a makeup staple that I couldn’t be without. It gives a beautiful warm glow that is completely buildable without any signs of streakiness or patchiness that can sometimes be problematic as the day wears on. Considering my skin is super pale it never looks over done, too harsh or un-natural.

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EYE’S

 

*Urban Decay Primer Potion*

 I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: without a doubt the best eyeshadow primer available. It does the job perfectly and never fails to keep the shadow firmly in place without any sign of creasing or fading. Love it!

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*Urban Decay Naked Palette*

I wanted to keep this eye look a little more subtle than usual as the lips would undoubtedly be the focal point. I used Sin all over the eye lid, Sidecar in the outer crease and finally a tiny flick of Toasted to accentuate the outer crease. Voila, job done.

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*MUA Eye Liner*

 I’ve tried and tested quite a few of the drug store offerings but can honestly say this is one of my favourites, not just due to the formula but because of the shape of the handle and stiffness of the applicator point. It makes a really fiddly job so much easier!

*Seventeen HD Falsifeye Mascara*

Being a bit of a mascara tart *oooh err missus* I seem to breeze from wand to wand quite aimlessly these days however I do believe I’ve found my all time drug store fav with this one. It adds length, defines and leaves them looking a little more fluttery than overly false. Exactly the look I love.

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LIPS

Chanel Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour in 444 Gabrielle – Words cannot describe how excited I’ve been to try this, even if it does pain me to have to dishevel the pristine new-ness by using it *sob* Never before have my lips felt such luxury. It’s beautifully creamy, glides on effortlessly and lasts for hours on end. It may be a high-end lippy with a price tag to match but it’s worth EVERY penny… then again it’s Chanel, of course it’s worth it!

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The Tools

Of Course what Makeup Menu would be complete without a shout-out to the gadgets and gizmo’s that make the magic happen right?

*From left to right*

Real Techniques Stippling Brush / RT’s Blush Brush / Superdrug Loose Powder Brush / RT’s Base Shadow Brush / RT’s Angled Shadow Brush / Naked Basics Double Ended Brush / RT’s Eyeliner Brush / Basic Eye Curlers / Superdrug Retractable Lip Brush

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Overall Result,

First thing I notice is how airbrushed the L’Oreal Infallible foundation looks, I’m personally putting this down to the combination of a foundation that really does work in balance with my skin’s natural tone and the Real Techniques Stippling Brush which does such a professional job of blending so beautifully.

As for the lips, the Chanel Coco Rouge (444 Gabrielle) is one of the first red tones I’ve actually felt 100% confident about wearing. The richness of the lipstick delivers a luxurious feel and indulgent look that is identifiably more high-end. There’s no distinct taste, it’s lightweight to wear, sleek on the lips, moisturising, yet stays completely put without any messiness or movement. Okay, at £26 from Boots it does require a little more investment but it really is worth every single penny. I’m now a Channel convert when it comes to finding the perfect pout!

Cheerio chums…