August Favourites + Highlights 2020

I will start by saying the past two months have been full of disruptions and upheaval which is why I haven’t been posting. I wrote THIS POST at the start of August that mostly explains everything. Since then my mum was admitted to hospital for a third time (and has since been discharged and is back home). It was finally discovered she had a bad bacterial infection that had possibly been laying dormant for a while which is why the first two rounds of antibiotics didn’t kill it and why her electrolyte levels weren’t holding and she’d feel weak and fuzzy in the head. My life for the past two months has pretty much been eat, hospital, try to sleep and go to work when I can – I haven’t had time for much else. I really hope this is the end and she can continue to get her strength back at home!

Onto this month’s favourites:

1. Ellie Goulding – Brightest Blue – I have been a fan of Ellie since she released her first album 10 years ago! Her voice is incredibly beautiful and angelic, I understand it’s not for everyone but it’s certainly distinctive. I never tire of listening to Ellie and when she announced her album release I was very excited – nearly everything she does is perfect in my eyes. This album really sees Ellie return to her roots, the melodies are quite simple which gives Ellie’s voice even more chance to shine. Her voice also has powerful, raspy moments and her lyrical phrasing is always something I look forward to hearing. Ellie’s music is uniquely her and that’s why I enjoy it so much, she’s uber cool and does things unexpected and different. Standout Tracks: How Deep Is Too Deep, Love I’m Given, Tides, Flux and Brightest Blue.

2. MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NW10 – I originally tried a sample of this foundation in NW13 and liked the formula and how product looked on my skin so much I purchased the full size in a shade lighter. Studio Fix Fluid has a natural matte finish and an oil controlling formula. I have dry skin but I don’t find this foundation too matte or drying, it gives a soft, velvety look to my skin. This is my current everyday foundation I use for work and it’s very easy to wear. It has SPF 15, is comfortable and long wearing and helps minimise the appearance of pores and imperfections making skin look smoother and more flawless.

3. Natio Rosewater Hydration Moisture Boost Day Cream-Gel – Natio is a brand I have used for a number of years. Their products are reasonably priced, good quality and contain natural ingredients. I was interested in trying a new daytime moisturiser and this cream-gel hybrid appealed to me. The texture is lightweight, product soaks into skin quickly and keeps it feeling moisturised throughout the day. This is what I thought Clinique’s Moisture Surge would be like but I was a little disappointed when I tried that. The scent of rose is noticeable but it isn’t overpowering and doesn’t irritate my skin or my nose. The pink tube is sturdy and travel friendly and looks cute on my dresser too.

4. BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone – I got a mini Moonstone as part of a three piece BECCA set from Sephora at the end of last year. As I have been focusing on a different eyeshadow palette and highlighter pairing per month in 2020, it was finally Moonstone’s turn in the spotlight in August. Moonstone is described as a pale, incandescent gold best suited for fair-light skin tones. The formula of BECCA’s highlighters is lovely; soft and buildable and they don’t look chunky on the skin. Moonstone is a great everyday highlighter that looks natural but can be built up if you want more glow.

August Highlights

• I was keen to purchase another luxury foundation and settled on Lancôme’s Teint Miracle in 005 Beige Ivoire after one of my closest blogging/Instagram friends always mentions how much she loves it. (I’m yet to use the foundation but very excited to try it).
• Purchased a shampoo and conditioner set from Function of Beauty. I’ve seen lots of good reviews and being able to customise my own hair products was fun. Let me know if you’d like a review once the products arrive and I’ve had a chance to use them.

July + August’s Spotify Playlists (since there was no July Favourites):

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How was your month? Share one of your highlights in the comments!

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Redhead Rambles #39

Hello everyone and welcome to ‘Redhead Rambles’. The series does what it says on the tin, it is a redhead (me) rambling about her week. I share what I’ve been up to each week, how I’ve been feeling and what I’ve been listening to or watching. Occasionally I will my share favourite blog posts and links I’ve found useful or interesting.

• Last Friday I drew my giveaway winner for Monday’s announcement post. If you aren’t already aware, the winner is Nadine!
• Late on Friday night I placed an xoBeauty order. I ordered one of the Radiant Glow Highlight Powders and a Detail Fibre Brush. I have heard Shannon mention this brush is particularly good for blush which is what I intend to use it for. As Monday was a public holiday in New Zealand the items shipped on Tuesday and arrived the next day.
• I was very tired on Saturday but luckily perked for work on Sunday.
• On Sunday I ordered Dominos pizza online and there was a mix up, I ended up with two deliveries at my door. I went to pay with my card online and it said the transaction could not be processed and it timed out and directed me back to the home page. I started my order again and selected a different payment method this time. Luckily I did because it turns out the first payment and order had gone through and after the first order had been delivered a second one turned up. I explained the mix up and realised I should have phoned the store. I felt bad so I Facebook messaged the company and they told me not to worry, I wouldn’t get in trouble for sending the second delivery man away.
• On Monday I didn’t sleep in but I was tired again so I had an afternoon nap.
• Tuesday was very hot and I had a few errands to run after work; go to the chemist and get a few bits from the supermarket. At the supermarket I bought a pain au chocolat for morning tea on Wednesday and it was delicious!
• Wednesday was also my last day of work for a little while, my annual leave started on Thursday.
• No sleep in again on Thursday so I got up and made a mocha and an omelette for breakfast.
• I wrote a list of what I want to get done during my time off and I managed to cross off pluck eyebrows and shave legs within the first day.
• I bubble wrapped the giveaway items and found a box to send them in to keep them secure.
• I tried The Body Shop’s Virgin Mojito body butter for the first time and it smells so fresh. The formula is soft and creamy and it’s a gorgeous lime green colour.

What I’ve been listening to:

Ellie Goulding – Ellie released a new track called Close To Me this week and I also played Delirium.

Dua Lipa – Dua re-released her debut album with new tracks.

How was your week?

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Redhead Rambles #23

Hello everyone and welcome to ‘Redhead Rambles’. The series does what it says on the tin, it is a redhead (me) rambling about her week. I share what I’ve been up to each week, how I’ve been feeling and what I’ve been listening to or watching. Occasionally I will my share favourite blog posts and links I’ve found useful or interesting.

• On Friday afternoon mum and I went into town. Even though there was sun I was so cold, I had four layers on. I ended up buying a new pillow which I have been using for the past week and so far so good.
• I had leftover apple crumble from the previous night for dessert and it was even better the second night.
• I woke up on Saturday feeling sick again. This is the third time I’ve been sick in two months.
• Despite feeling sick I went into town again and bought a facial oil from Trilogy (which I’m yet to try) and another new bra, that’s the second bra I’ve bought in the past month which has been up to Chanelle standard and I had gift cards so it ended up being free!
• I loved my makeup and outfit on Saturday. You may have seen on Instagram I paired black skinny jeans with a light blue jumper tucked in and a bright red lip.
• On Monday I made an appointment with the doctor for after work to try and get on top of things and to see if there is anything she could recommend to stop me getting sick. If you saw my rant on Instagram stories you’ll know the appointment didn’t go well at all. I was basically made to feel like I was wasting time being there and I didn’t need to see a doctor, I just needed to stop pitying myself and was told to go and look up self love on the internet. Safe to say I won’t be seeing that doctor again!
• I’ve had a couple of phone calls with my brother. He is coming down to visit and stay for a couple of days next week so I hope I’m feeling better by then.
• Thursday meant I could sleep in, get up when I wanted and rest and take it easy. I did some blog post planning and I will be going back to three posts a week in a couple of weeks. I watched some YouTube videos on my iPad and read.

What I’ve been listening to:

5 Seconds of Summer – Youngblood – I’m not a die hard fan of the group but this track is damn catchy! Some of the lyrics resonate with me and it’s one of those songs you want to listen to on repeat.

Sean Paul and Ellie Goulding – Bad Love – Literally everything Ellie touches I love! Sean Paul’s sound isn’t what I listen to but because Ellie is on this track I like it.

How was your week?

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Redhead Rambles #19

Hello everyone and welcome to ‘Redhead Rambles’. The series does what it says on the tin, it is a redhead (me) rambling about her week. I share what I’ve been up to each week, how I’ve been feeling and what I’ve been listening to or watching. Occasionally I will my share favourite blog posts and links I’ve found useful or interesting.

• This is the first Redhead Rambles post in over a month. During my blogging break I didn’t write them and this week is the first week where I feel like my mindset isn’t quite as negative as it has been.
• Last Sunday I actually saw my ex-boyfriend (it still hurts to type that) for the first time in a month. I had been writing down what I wanted to say and I had every intention of getting angry at him but I couldn’t do it. Talking felt like old times and we even laughed together but I have begun to realise that I cared about him more than he cared about me and he wasn’t willing to fight to keep me. I need someone who loves me the way I love them. In no way do I feel animosity or like our love wasn’t important but I’ve accepted we won’t be together. One day I hope losing me hits him and he realises what he lost, I don’t mean that in an arrogant way but I know I’m not like a lot of other people and I’m different. I’m not saying I’m better for being different but my mind and personality is unique.
• Monday was Queen’s Birthday in New Zealand so we got a long weekend and I got an extra day off work. I had a chilled day and spent the afternoon curled up on the couch with a book.
• Work was busy-ish on Tuesday (as to be expected after a public holiday) and was very hot. There’s an issue with the boiler and until it gets fixed it’s like working in a sauna and the temperature can’t be turned down.
• I also experimented a little with some makeup this week. On Tuesday I used Maybelline’s Molten Highlighter in Rose Gold as an eyeshadow base for MAC’s Tan pigment and my eyes looked lovely and sparkly. On Wednesday I wore the blue cream highlighter from the Chi Chi Unicorns & Mermaids palette for the first time and loved it! Blue works so well with a fuschia lip!
• Wednesday was also my last day at work for a little while. I’ve got some annual leave. It’s my first proper break in a year.
• On Thursday I had a huge sleep in. I also made cheesecake in the afternoon, the cheesecake is nice but sickly if I have too big a slice.
• I shaved my legs for the first time in a couple of weeks. Using The Body Shop’s Vanilla Chai Body Scrub seems to work a treat at not making them dry and itchy.
• The final of My Kitchen Rules Australia 2018 aired this week and unfortunately the team I wanted to win didn’t.
• I have lost weight recently without really trying. With stress, being sick and not feeling as hungry there has been a noticeable difference. Mum and work colleagues have picked up on it.

What I’ve been listening to:

Jake Carter ft. Una Healy – Take Me Dancing – The upbeat, positivity of this song makes me happy. This is the type of song that makes you want to forget about everything and, dance.

Kylie Minogue – Golden – This album has been out for two months and after my break up the tracks took on more meaning. The album was penned after Kylie herself went through a break up and lots of the lyrics are how she felt and personal to her.

Ellie Goulding – Delirium – I was absolutely addicted to this album when it was released and it is still one of my favourites to listen to. Can’t beat an Ellie sing-a-long.

How was your week?

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The MAC Lipstick Tag

Hey everyone! I saw this tag seven months ago on Molly’s blog and I finally got around to doing it! Like most beauty bloggers, I adore MAC lipsticks. The range of formulas and selection of shades combined with outstanding quality is a winning combination! MAC lipsticks are worth every cent and the hype surrounding them is definitely real. Let’s jump straight in to the tag!

1. What was your first MAC lipstick?

My first MAC lipstick was Syrup. I chose this colour after hearing Lily Pebbles mention it in a number of her videos and I couldn’t have been more happy with my choice.

2. What was your most recent MAC lipstick addition?

I haven’t received it yet, but my brother is buying Matte Royal for me for my birthday this month.

3. What is your most used MAC Lipstick?

It’s a tie between Syrup and Patisserie (another Lily Pebbles inspired choice). Both of these shades are lovely as everyday colours as they’re relatively neutral and they go with absolutely everything!

4. What is your favourite nude/pink/red MAC lipstick?

Nude: Blankety – The perfect nude.

Pink: Without Your Love – From Ellie Goulding’s MAC collection.

Red: Ruby Woo – It’s the only red lipstick from MAC I own.

5. Have you ever repurchased a MAC lipstick?

Not yet. I definitely see myself repurchasing Syrup once I’ve used it up and possibly Patisserie as well.

6. Which of the different MAC finishes do you own?

2 x Lustre, 2 x Retro Matte, 2 x Cremesheen and 1 x Amplified making for a total of seven lipsticks. Not a lot, but still a nice little collection.

7. Which shade do you want to wear more?

Blankety. It is such a beautiful nude with an incredible formula and I don’t show it enough love.

8. Which shade doesn’t get enough hype?

All Fired Up. This is the most gorgeous fuschia-red colour which are my favourite shades to wear. Despite being retro matte, this lipstick isn’t drying.

9. Do you regret buying any shades?

Sunny Seoul – kind of. It’s a cremesheen which isn’t my favourite finish and sometimes this shade can take a few layers to build up nicely and provide even coverage. It’s my least worn MAC lipstick but I don’t want to get rid of it because it’s still stunning. Maybe I’ll pass it on to my mum.

My (Soon To Be) MAC Lipstick Collection:

10. What next?

I want to do a thorough swatch test. I especially want to swatch Brave as it is talked about so often and seems like another perfect neutral everyday colour. I’m eyeing up Show Orchid as well for when my current fuchsia shade runs out. I don’t need any lipsticks right now but I can always look for the future, right?!

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I hope you enjoyed reading this tag and definitely give it a go if you’re a MAC lipstick fan!

Sixteen of ’16

At the end of 2015 I wrote a post called, Fifteen of ’15, sharing 15 of my personal highlights from the year. This year I have decided to do the same. Looking back over the past twelve months a lot has happened and in this post I’ll be sharing what I’ve loved about 2016, things I’ve achieved and experiences that have changed me.

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#1 – 21st birthday

My birthday is in January so my year got off to an exciting start. 21 is one of those special birthdays and that’s exactly how mine felt. I did a Birthday Body Shop Haul, created a 21 Songs In 21 Years playlist and shared 21 Things I’ve Learnt In 21 Years. On my actual birthday itself the house was decorated and the dining table was covered in presents unbeknownst to me. At the end of the month mum and I went on a little break away to celebrate.

#2 – Going to a casino

This relates to #1. On my break away I went to a casino for the first time and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I’m not a gambler but it was fun to have a go on a slot machine. I’m even more pleased to say I won a decent amount of money too! I put in $10 and won $143.

#3 – Dannii For Target clothing

When Dannii partnered with Target I knew I would love her clothing range, which is designed for petites. Petite doesn’t mean size zero, it’s about proportions and the length of a garment. Petites goes up to size 16 so it caters for the curvier market too. Throughout 2016 I have made a few different orders and I am so impressed with the quality – of course the items fit like a glove. I wear my petites items all the time and I always look forward to what Target and Dannii bring out next!

#4 – Zayn – Mind of Mine

One album I have been playing non-stop this year is Mind of Mine by Zayn. I’m not a One Direction fan but I have always loved Zayn’s voice. I was curious as to what his album would sound like and it’s a mixture of sexy pop/R&B. I love this album so much more than I thought I would.

Corresponding post: Album Review: Zayn – Mind of Mine

#5 – Happiness Highlights

At the end of every month since May I have been sharing my Happiness Highlights. On my phone I keep a list and write down one thing that makes me happy each day. I started this after seeing it on Adele’s blog and I feel like it has made a difference to my mood and positivity. I will continue this into the new year so let me know if you’d like me to keep sharing.

#6 – Chanelle Hayley Turns 2!

In June I celebrated my two year blogging anniversary! I ran a giveaway to mark the occasion and it was a lot of fun. I hadn’t done one before so thank you for all the support and entries I received.

Corresponding post: [Closed] EXCITING Blog Giveaway!!!

#7 – Losing my job

This might seem odd to include in this post but let me explain why I have. For those of you who don’t know I used to work in a pharmacy. A month or so prior to losing my job I felt a change in myself that I didn’t like. I started to become shy and would barely talk and I felt like I couldn’t do my ‘job’ properly anymore. I will point out it wasn’t my decision to leave but going through that changed my attitude and I started to feel more confident again. As a result I did things I probably wouldn’t have done before and I’m glad I’ve done them.

#8 – Delta Goodrem – Wings of the Wild

Delta Goodrem is a singer I have listened to since I was 8 or 9 years old. I have always loved her music and writing style and her fifth album, Wings of the Wild is incredible! The album was released in July and like Mind of Mine I have been playing it non-stop. The lyrics are very empowering and it’s what I needed just after losing my job.

#9 – Passed driving test

It was just over a month between losing my job at the pharmacy and finding the job I have now. I decided the time was right for me to sit my Learner’s Licence test. It’s not that I don’t understand road rules but I never felt ready before. I sat the test on July 5th and passed with 33 out of 35. I haven’t quite started driving and sitting behind the wheel of a car yet but that’s next!

#10 – Alan Carr – Yap, Yap, Yap!

The month after I passed my driving test I went up to stay with my brother for a few days and the highlight of that trip was seeing a show by stand up comedian Alan Carr. I have loved Alan for years and used to adore his show Chatty Man (the earlier seasons were better). Alan was very funny and I’m pleased I went to the show. I sat in Row R but I still had a good view.

#11 – Flying solo

This goes hand in hand with #10. I mentioned I went up to stay with my brother and it made sense to fly up. It’s only a 40 minute trip and I didn’t have lots of luggage and I can’t drive so it was the logical option. I had never flown on a plane by myself before and a year ago I don’t know that I could have done it.

#12 – Boyfriend

In September I had the first date with my boyfriend. We have been seeing each other for almost four months now and he’s just so lovely. I don’t share too much about our relationship because that’s for us but I have been very happy over the past few months.

#13 – Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

This book is one of the best I have read in a long time! I purchased it a couple of months before I read it but I really enjoyed it and I can see myself re-reading this over again. I have also seen the film and read the follow up, After You.

#14 – Ellie Goulding Delirium World Tour

Without a doubt one of the best nights of my life! I saw Ellie on her Halcyon Days Tour in NZ in 2014 and that was my first ever concert which was super special! The show this time around was even more spectacular, the lights, dancers, staging and outfits were so well done. Ellie sounds magical live and she is such a natural performer.

#15 – Went shooting

This is less scary than it sounds I promise… my boyfriend and his dad have a keen interest in shooting and one day they took me out to the range they belong to. We were only shooting at targets and I’d never fired a gun before but I really enjoyed it. I didn’t know what to expect and once I got the hang of the different scopes I was fine. I did manage to hit the target a couple of times too. I also bought home a fragment of bullet as a keepsake.

#16 – Instax Camera

I only got this camera a month ago but I’m still in love with it! I’ve taken a couple of pictures now (one of which you may have seen on Instagram) and I still get excited thinking about using it. I bought this camera because while I enjoy and like taking photos I don’t want to invest in a fancy DSLR if I don’t end up using it often. With Instax you have to get the photo right the first time, there’s no editing or touch ups. For Christmas, I got a pink Instax backpack which matches my camera to keep my camera, film and accessories in. I can’t wait to capture memories in 2017!

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Thank you for reading as always and I hope 2016 was as beneficial for you as it was for me! Let me know some of your highlights!

October Favourites 2016

Here we are at the end of another month already! It has been another busy one and again it has been filled with lots of positivity and smiles! I haven’t purchased a lot of makeup and beauty bits over the past few months and there’s no beauty products in this post. I’ve really been enjoying rediscovering products again and coming up with different makeup looks and combinations. I am doing extremely well with my lip product buying ban as well, it’s been almost two months and I haven’t caved!

Onto this month’s favourites:

1. Ellie Goulding Delirium World Tour – October got off to an incredible start when I saw Ellie Goulding in concert on the very first day of the month. I had had my ticket for seven months and I was super excited to see Ellie again. I saw her when she was last here in June 2014 and this time was even better! The visuals and the lighting were so well done and Ellie looked absolutely beautiful in her outfits. (At the last concert there were no outfit changes). The atmosphere was electric and I enjoyed every minute! I also bought a t-shirt with tour dates on the back as a keepsake.

2. After You – Jojo Moyes* – After You is the follow up novel to Me Before You which featured in last month’s favourites. I borrowed the book from one of my work colleagues and finished it a lot quicker than the prequel. Like last month I won’t spoil the book and the plot if you haven’t read it yet and you want to but I will say After You seems slightly more action packed than Me Before You and more characters are introduced. I hope this novel is made into a film as well!

Note: I watched Me Before You last week and I really liked it. It moves faster than the book and is a bit different but there is lots of sarcastic, dry humour which made me laugh. I didn’t cry when I read the book and I almost made it through the film without crying. The credits were rolling and I started thinking about the storyline and I ended up having a little cry.

*The book doesn’t feature in the image as I have given it back to my work colleague.

3. ASOS Textured Striped Dial Watch – I haven’t had this watch very long (a matter of days) but I am in love! I have been after a stylish, rose gold watch for a couple of months and I finally decided on this one. My wrists are the size of a child’s, possibly even smaller, and it’s so difficult to find a watch that fits. This one from ASOS is stunning, the face isn’t huge and doesn’t take over my wrist. I don’t even have to wear the watch at it’s tightest – even though I might be able to get away with it.

4. kikki.K Mindful Colouring Book – My mum bought this colouring book for me when we were in Auckland at the beginning of the month but it’s only within the past week that I’ve opened it up and started colouring. I know adult colouring has become popular over the past couple of years and I’ve wanted a colouring book for ages but a lot of the books seem thick and the patterns look so intricate and confusing but this one is a handy size. I bought a pack of fine liner pens to colour with.

October’s Spotify Playlist:

This playlist is all upbeat and has a feel good pop/dance vibe to it. A beat is what draws me in to a song and I enjoy nothing more than music I can sing and dance along to.

The Beauty Blogger Tag 2

A couple of weeks ago I was nominated for this award by Dannii from A Beautiful Thing. I am ever so grateful to be nominated and to Dannii for thinking of me. Make sure you go over and follow Dannii if you’re not already because she is super lovely!

The Rules:

• Tag the blogger that nominated you.
• Answer the questions you were given.
• Nominate 5-10 bloggers whose blog is about beauty/lifestyle/fashion.
• Write 10 questions for your nominees to answer.

Dannii’s Questions:

1. What is your favourite nail polish at the moment? (Brand and shade).

I like to paint my nails regularly but I haven’t done so for a week or two now. I will go with Bubblebath by OPI as I have worn that a lot lately.

2. What is your favourite eyeshadow palette?

‘The Nudes’ by Maybelline.

3. If you could only use three makeup items, what would they be?

Concealer, mascara and lipstick.

4. What makeup or beauty release are you most excited about?

I don’t think I’ve been excited for anything since MAC announced their collaboration with Ellie Goulding. New Zealand doesn’t end up getting lots of beauty releases or gets them after everyone else.

5. Your favourite YouTuber?

I have two: Lily Pebbles and Marcus Butler.

6. Where in the world would you like to live, if you could choose anywhere?

I say this so much, England! If I couldn’t live in England, I would happily stay in New Zealand though, it’s pretty cool!

7. What are you most looking forward to this month? (Can be a holiday, beauty, anything).

The shortest day of the year because it’s a work day 😛 I am also excited about my first blog giveaway which launched last week. I had been planning one for a while and it seemed right to doing one to celebrate two years of blogging.

8. What beauty products have you recently found disappointing?

• Garnier Micellar Water – I loved this when I first got it but I have always been on the fence ever since. It removes makeup fine but I don’t find it the most beneficial for my skin. Maybe that’s down to the six month expiry, I’ve had my bottle for more than a year and am just over half way through. I’m convinced the other bloggers who use up one of these every few months drink it.
• Simple Kind To Skin Moisturising Facial Wash – I got this back in January and have only used it a handful of times. I found it didn’t do much for my skin and I just don’t reach for this product. Unfortunately, I think this will be going in the bin.

9. Favourite song at the moment?

Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling. This song is so happy and full of good vibes. It makes me want to smile and dance around.

10. What one beauty or makeup item would you recommend?

Max Factor’s Excess Shimmer eyeshadow pot in the shade Copper. I have not stopped using this since I purchased it and it is a shade which I think will suit almost everybody. It’s not too shimmery for an everyday eye look and it’s so easy to wear. Normally I swipe this across my eyelids with my ring finger and I’m done. It also looks nice layered over top of brown/taupe eyeshadows (particularly from ‘The Nudes’ by Maybelline) to create a more intense look.

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I know the rules say to nominate 5-10 bloggers but I’m going to be lazy and leave this tag open to anyone who would like to do it or anyone who hasn’t done it before. I’d like you to answer the same questions I did and be sure to leave me a comment if you do this tag!

P.S. Have you entered my GIVEAWAY? CLICK HERE for info!

New MAC Products

Hey there! Like so many other beauty bloggers I am a massive fan of MAC lipsticks. The range of colours is outstanding and the formulation and lasting power is much talked about. Four new lip products from MAC have found their way into my makeup drawer (two in the last week) and I thought it might be nice to share them with you!

Ruby Woo and All Fired Up featured in last week’s January Favourites post. I mentioned they probably deserve a post of their own and the lovely Adele agreed so here it is! The other two shades are from the newly released MAC x Ellie Goulding collection and I just knew I had to get my hands on something from it! I think even if I wasn’t a fan of Ellie’s these shades would still be colours I’d go for. Pretty pink and peachy neutrals, yes please!

Swatches

Left To Right: Without Your Love, Revved, All Fired Up and Ruby Woo.

1. Ruby Woo Lipstick

Ruby Woo is a classic red and a staple in many bloggers makeup bags. Before owning the shade I thought, “Do I need another red lipstick?” and I am so glad I convinced myself I did. Ruby Woo is a proper blue-toned red and doesn’t lean towards orange or lean towards wine-brick red tones. Ruby Woo does have a retro matte formula which can make it drying but if you apply a small amount of lip balm beforehand, it’s fine. Another huge plus is that Ruby Woo makes your teeth look whiter due to it’s blue-red tones, perfect for showcasing that killer smile! The colour will last you all day (or all night) and doesn’t transfer when you eat or drink.  If you’re looking for one holy grail red for your collection, I guarantee you this is it.

2. All Fired Up Lipstick

If you were to ask me what my perfect lipstick colour is, All Fired Up would just about be it. Fuschia is my absolute favourite shade to wear but this shade has the right amount of red to take it from an ordinary fuschia into something special. If I wanted to, I know I could wear this lipstick day in and day out and never get tired of it, that’s how beautiful the colour is. I feel like not enough people know about All Fired Up and if you swatch it you will see how beautiful it is. Again, this one has a retro matte formula but I find this slightly creamier than Ruby Woo. All Fired Up is the also the name of one of my favourite Saturdays’ songs so you can’t really go wrong!

3. Without Your Love Lipstick

Ellie Goulding’s MAC collection features two brand new lipstick shades named after two of her songs. I swatched both in-store and preferred the look of Without Your Love; a warm seashell pink. Not only is this colour beautiful and right up my street, the packaging and lipstick bullet itself is stunning. The rose gold and black packaging is right on trend and makes the collection stand out. I also love how Ellie’s logo is embossed into the bullet. Without Your Love has a cremesheen finish meaning it is infused with pearlised pigments and a moistursing serum blend. This shade would look particularly lovely on fair skin tones as it is such a light pink. I’m sure this would also look lovely layered up or with a darker pink gloss over the top.

4. Revved Patentpolish Lip Pencil

This is my first MAC product that’s not strictly a lipstick. MAC claim their patentpolish lip pencils offer the comfort of a balm, colour and sheen of a gloss and precision of a lip pencil. The two lip pencils in the collection are part of MAC’s permanent range. They have been re-promoted and given special packaging for this collection. Revved is a peach shade with shimmer and is really nice to apply, it’s creamy but not too creamy if that makes sense. I do think this lip pencil would need reapplication throughout the day as the colour had faded when I returned home from work. The good thing about this shade is that because it is neutral it’s not as noticeable when it fades as a matte or a bright colour. I don’t own any other lip pencils so it will be interesting to see how often I reach for this. I see myself wearing this shade a lot as it is perfect for everyday.

If there are any MAC shades you think I should swatch next time I’m at the counter, leave your suggestions below!

Playlist: 21 Songs In 21 Years

Hey everyone – welcome to the second of my special birthday posts! Music is such a big part of my everyday life and I came up with the idea to compile a list of 21 songs into a playlist, each one representing a year I’ve been alive. These are all songs that I have loved since I was little and songs that are special to me. The playlist will be broken down step by step and I’ll explain why I chose each track.

Rules: In order to be considered, each song had to be released as a single or feature on an album in the year it corresponds to.

#1. 1995: Shania Twain – (If You’re Not In It For Love) I’m Outta Here!

I chose this song as the first track as it is a great way to kick off the playlist and 1995 was the year big things started happening for Shania. The album this track is from was released just two weeks after I was born. Shania is a huge inspiration to me and her music has always stayed with me throughout the years.

#2. 1996: Spice Girls – Wannabe

Who doesn’t love a bit of girl power? Wannabe is a song that makes me happy whenever I hear it and is the essence of fun. I also know Mel B’s rap word perfect!

#3. 1997: Shania Twain – From This Moment On

I know I shouldn’t be biased but From This Moment On is one of my favourite songs from the entire playlist. This is the song that made me buy Come On Over and fall in love with the album. To this day it is still my favourite album and one of my most played albums of all time. I also want this song to be my wedding song.

#4. 1998: Jennifer Paige – Crush

I’m not going to lie, 1998 was a hard year to choose a song for but I did it. The beat to this song is so poppy and up my street and I always sing along whenever I hear this on the radio. In my opinion this song has aged well, it doesn’t sound nearly 20 years old at all.

#5. 1999: Steps – Better the Devil You Know

This song (a cover of the Kylie hit) is what ignited my love for Steps in the first place. Steps hold such a special place in my heart as their music made me realise that I want to be a singer too. I have an old video tape of Steps performing this song that I used to play over and over.

#6. 2000: Kylie Minogue – Spinning Around

Spinning Around is my favourite Kylie song and always brings a smile to my face when I hear it. This song brings back childhood memories of me dancing round the living room when I was five or six years old. Spinning Around was track #1 on a cassette tape and I played that cassette tape to death. I’ve still got the cassette and played it a few years ago – it’s still a cracker!

#7. 2001: Enrique Iglesias – Hero

This is another one of those songs that doesn’t seem it’s age. By 2001 Enrique was a worldwide success and Hero further cemented that. The lyrics of this ballad are so beautiful and almost bring me to tears. This song is special because we all need someone to look after us and be a hero in our lives.

#8. 2002: Dannii Minogue – Put the Needle On It

You can’t include one Minogue without the other. Put the Needle On It is one of Dannii’s classics and helped her 2003 album Neon Nights to become her most successful. Everything about this track is slick and sexy, the beat, the lyrics and the music video.

#9. 2003: Lisa Scott-Lee – Too Far Gone

Words probably cannot explain the obsession I have with Lisa Scott-Lee. She has always been my favourite member of Steps and her solo music is right up my street and the type of music I’d like to make. Too Far Gone was Lisa’s second solo single after Steps split and is a perfect groove for the dancefloor!

#10. 2004: Maroon 5 – She Will Be Loved

My mum is a fan of Maroon 5 so in a lot of ways this choice reminds me of her. The poignant lyrics of this song have always struck a chord with me – the words are sad but beautiful.

#11. 2005: Sugababes – Push the Button

Again, this choice reminds me of my mum – she used to have this song as her ringtone. Push the Button also reminds me of my 11th birthday. I had my first ever birthday party and my friends and I were talking about how much we loved this song.

#12. 2006: Cascada – Everytime We Touch

One of the biggest things that draws me into a song is the beat. While I do love a good, slushy ballad, up tempo music is where it’s at! This track is proper Eurodance and has the most amazing beat that just makes me want to sing along and dance.

#13. 2007 – Westlife – Something Right

Something Right is up there with My Love as my all-time favourite Westlife track. When I first heard this song it reminded me what I loved so much about Westlife when I was a kid – beautiful voices making good pop music. This track really reignited my love for Westlife, for a few years they had slipped under my radar but they were back!

#14. 2008: The Saturdays – If This Is Love

I cannot begin to explain how special these five ladies are to me, what did I even do before The Saturdays? I feel like The Saturdays are one of the first bands I have followed right from the very beginning and all of the memories and friends I have made because of them I will treasure forever. It’s only fitting I picked their debut single as it’s where everything began.

#15. 2009: Natalie Bassingthwaighte – Someday Soon

This song gives me goosebumps because the lyrics are very personal to me. The lyrics are all about chasing your dreams and being successful in what you do. The lyrics could apply to a number of situations but the line, “someday soon, they’re gonna write your name in the sky” makes me imagine what it would be like to make it as a singer and inspire people which is my biggest dream. Also the line, “You know you’re my hero, you’re gonna be a star tonight” makes me think of being on a stage and hearing people sing your lyrics back to you, that’s when you know you’ve made it.

#16. 2010: The Saturdays – Higher

This is hands down my favourite Saturdays song! I prefer the album version with Una’s middle-eight over the single version which features Flo Rida but New Zealand Spotify only had the rap version so you’re stuck with it.

#17. 2011: Sophie Ellis-Bextor – Not Giving Up On Love

I have been a fan of Sophie since the ‘Murder On the Dancefloor’ days and this tune from 2011 is one of her best! She teamed up with Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren and Australian sisters Nervo to deliver a track full of euphoric synths and pulsating beats. I am so glad I’ve been able to showcase a few of my favourite Euro/trance tracks with this playlist.

#18. 2012: Ellie Goulding – Anything Could Happen

The title Anything Could Happen just makes me happy and fills me with positivity. It could have negative connotations but for me it doesn’t. Anything Could Happen is about releasing and letting go of everything and moving forward with the mindset that good things will come to you. This song was also a turning point in the show when I saw Ellie in concert, the whole room felt electric and everyone was singing along.

#19. 2013: The Saturdays – What About Us

This is the last Saturdays track I promise! What About Us is very special to me as it was the band’s first #1 in The UK and it was the first time I heard The Saturdays played regularly on New Zealand radio. Before that I felt like I was one of few people who knew about them and the fact What About Us charted at #27 in New Zealand means the world to me. Enough people bought and liked the song despite not knowing a lot about who was singing it.

#20. 2014: Da Buzz – Touch My Soul

I have listened to Da Buzz for years and I truly believe Swedes make some of the best music in the world, the singers, writers, producers etc. I really don’t know what to say about this song apart from it’s a bloody corker! It is in that Eurodance vein but with Da Buzz it is about the lyrics and vocals just as much as the beat. It’s not just a few lines layered over top of a sick beat and repeated for 3 minutes.

#21. 2015: Ellie Goulding – Love Me Like You Do

Love Me Like You Do is my absolute favourite track from 2015 and I think it really did a lot for Ellie. It opened up her voice and music to so many more people and has bought her a lot of success in the process. This song even made my brother a fan of Ellie.

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Honourable Mentions: There were a few tough choices and that meant some of my most played tracks didn’t make the cut. These songs are also very special to me and I wanted to mention them: 2008: Girls Aloud – The Promise, 2011: Pixie Lott – All About Tonight, 2013: Shane Filan – Everything To Me and 2015: Delta Goodrem – Wings.

Thanks for reading, I know this was a monster of a post!