Health Series | DIY Lean & Green Juice Recipe

Now that Christmas is over, it's time to put down the tin of Roses (they're chocolates for those of you unfamiliar with the product!) and get your body back into shape! Something that I'm really getting into lately, are homemade juices. Shop bought juices can be dodgy as they often have extra bits thrown into them and often contain a ton of sugar. If you make your own juice, you can control exactly what goes into the drink so it is often a lot healthier. Today's juice is what I have called a "Lean & Green" juice drink. It's packed with fruits, veggies and tons of vitamins and antioxidants. Plus it tastes good!

Makes: 1 glass of juice

What You Need:

• 1 whole (green) apple
• 1/2 a cucumber 
• 3 kale leaves
• 1 cup of grapes (about 28)
• 1/2 cup of water

Method:

1. Core and chop up your apple.

2. Slice cucumber into thick slices.

3. Throw in all your ingredients into your juicer.

4. Taste your juice and add more of any of the ingredients you like including watering it down to taste.

5. Enjoy your yummy and healthy juice!

Health Benefits:

There's loads of brilliant benefits to this juice. Cucumber contains vitamin K, calcium and copper which helps with things such as blood clotting and boosting your immune system. Of course we know that 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away' but did you know they also cleanse your liver and can prevent cancer? Flavonoids and phenolic acids are proven to prevent the development of cancerous tumour cells. Kale can also help prevent cancer, in particular cervical cancer. It also contains lots of vitamins and minerals including K, C, B, magnesium and calcium. Finally, grape juice is great for lowering cholesterol and surprisingly, it's also great for your brain. Apparently, it can help you retain knowledge better. I guess I'll be downing some grape juice before exams from now on!

The end product- add a slice of cucumber for extra style points!

As you can see, juicing has so many great health benefits. It's a really easy way to get in the majority of your 5 a day, in one glass! There are so many different juices, and if you like this one stay tuned for lots more healthy and delicious recipes soon. 

What I Got For Christmas 2013!

Merry Christmas everyone! Well actually, I suppose I should be saying Happy St.Stephen's Day, as Christmas is now over... Anyway I hope you've all had a lovely holiday and ate lots of lovely food and spent time with the ones you love. I had a lovely day. Now, of course Christmas is not about the gifts but who doesn't like seeing what everyone else received? I know I do, and if you're a tad nosey like me, hopefully you'll enjoy this post. Before I start, I guess I'll have to include the mandatory disclaimer that I am of course not showing off and this is simply a fun little post! If you don't enjoy these sorts of posts, feel free to exit right now. It goes without saying that I am genuinely extremely grateful for everything I received and for all the amazing people in my life. Here are most of the gifts I received this year...

Above, I have all of my Santa pressies. I honestly received alot more than I could have ever imagined. My main gift was a gorgeous embellished parka from Free People that I didn't include in the above photo, but if you fancy seeing a pic click here. The biggest surprise I received was the beats pill speakers. It is a tiny wireless bluetooth speaker and I love it! The sound is great and it's perfect for blasting music everywhere and anywhere! My stocking stuffers (which are my favourite bit!) included some MAC makeup, chocolates, Real Techniques brush sets, a Paris Street Style book and a fabulous vintage-style eiffel tower mirror. I also got a Babyliss curling wand- I can't wait to try and recreate some Kardashian waves!

Below, is a bracelet I also received in my stocking. It was a total surprise and I absolutely love it! It's from Ti Siento and it's a simple and delicate silver chained bracelet with a diamond in the middle. I love dainty jewellery such as this and I haven't taken it off since I opened it! On the right are a few gifts I received from my family members. I mostly received money this year but I also got a Benefit makeup kit, short grey Uggs and a Wildfox jumper.

Well there are my gifts this year, let me know what you received in the comments! I've had a lovely Christmas, relaxed and hanging out with family. Just how it should be. 

Christmas Gift Guide 2013 | Last Minute Gifts!

Even though it may only be a few more days until Santa comes knockin', you may still not have all your Christmas pressies purchased. Even if you think you do, it's always good to have one or two on hand for someone you may have forgotten about *oops*. Here's a list of some inexpensive gifts that are easy to get a hold of!

1. Baked Goods

Baking is always a good idea. It doesn't cost much and shows you've put some time and effort into the gift. Go for something festive like some mince pies or cookies and brownies always go down a treat!

2. Candles

For someone you don't know too well, or better yet someone you know loves candles- a candle is a perfect gift. For lovely candles that aren't crazily priced Yankee Candles are your best bet. For a higher end option Jo Malone is the Chanel of the candle world. Think luxury and subtly delicious scents and they also do some great gifts sets and fragrances for both men and women. My personal current favourite is Peony and Blush Suede! 

- Yankee Candles- from €15

- Jo Malone from €40 available in Brown Thomas 

3. Socks

Socks may not be the most original gift but they are always guaranteed to not go to waste! I am obsessed with Topshop socks. They have everything on a sock so whatever the person loves- cats, hearts, plaid whatever- it's most likely on a sock. They even have Christmas themed socks which are adorable.
-Topshop socks £3.50 

4. Hot Chocolate Kit

This is another great gift for absolutely anyone. Most people love hot chocolate and I think a little hot cocoa kit is a fabulous winter appropriate gift. This year Boots are actually stocking Starbucks gift sets so pop in and pick one up!
- £16.50 from Boots

5. Body Scent Sets

I love anything Old Spice for men. Boots have a good range of the products and they smell sooo good! They also do lovely gift sets such as the "Unleash Your Wild Set" set which is perfect for any man in your life!

  - €10.49 from Boots

Do you have all your gifts purchased? Or will you be part of the Christmas Eve last minute shopping madness? 

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year....

Eeeeeeeeeep! Hello everybody, long time no see eh? My sincerest apologies for my absence (it's been almost a month- say whaaaat?). It's a pretty hectic time of the year, I've had exams and just general Christmas happenings...and to be honest, I just wasn't in that blogging mood. But not to fear as I'm back! I really feel like getting back into the swing of things and I'm feeling inspired so let's hope that means lots of great posts on the way.

My tree this year! 

This post is solely to talk about the greatest time of the year that is CHRISTMAS! Ornaments, trees, presents, glitter, lights and pure joy and happiness. Honestly, the mood and atmosphere that comes along with this season is my favourite part of the whole holiday. Gifts and decorations are great and lovely but really there is nothing like spending time with loved ones and wishing everybody and anybody a very Merry Christmas. 

I do have one gift guide up (with another one on the way) and I may post some more Christmas-themed posts cause I mean who doesn't love Christmas? I also really hope to hold a 250 followers giveaway soon to thank all you wonderful people for following little old me (as in following my blog not actually me!). So thank you all and hopefully I will be able to hold that giveaway very very soon.

Let me know all your Christmas plans, any gifts you've requested, any cool gifts you've bought for other people and what you're most excited about for this holiday season! I would honestly love to hear them.

Thank you all again for following this little slice of the web and for sticking with me when I haven't always been the best blogger in the world. Wishing you all the Merriest of Christmases and of course a very very Happy New Year! 

Christmas Gift Guide 2013 | For Her

Christmas is on its way and you know what that means- Christmas shopping time! In spirit with the festive season. This is the first in my "Christmas Gift Guide 2013" series for this year. I plan on doing a few more different gift guides this year so you can find the perfect gift for anyone!

Hopefully this list will help you decide what to get for the women in your life- or help you decide what to ask for this Christmas for yourself!

1. Bunny Ring Holder - €10.78 from ASOS

The perfect simple and adorable (not to mention affordable!) gift for any jewellery lover in your life.

7. Sloane Stationery - from €15.54

This is the perfect gift for every busy woman (or man)! I love their stationery as they have the cutest little messages on the front of them. Slogans such as "My Big Ideas" and this one which reads "Emails to write, Phone calls to have" make these a really unique gift.

2. Soap and Glory Clean Getaway - €14 from Boots

Soap and Glory kits are great as everyone likes them! Their pretty packaging makes this kit a must have which features four mini versions of some of their bestsellers.

3. Neon nail Art Gift Set - €17 from River Island

This a really fun kit for any nail-lover or teenager you know that is into beauty!

4. Headphone Hat - £18 from Topshop 

For the not so girly-girl this hat is perfect. It looks like your average beanie but actually has built in headphone- expect to get some cool points!

5. Ugg Slippers - €125 from Schuh

These are definitely on the pricier side but you are guaranteed whoever gets these will love them! I have a pair myself and they feel like walking on clouds. Plus they'll last forever.

6. Benefit Groovy kind-a-Love Kit - €39.50 from Debenhams

Benefit always do the most amazing makeup kits. This one is great value as it contains loads of amazing mini makeup products.

7. Sloane Stationery - from €15.54 

This is the perfect gift for every busy woman (or man)! I love their stationery as they have the cutest little messages on the front of them. Slogans such as "My Big Ideas" and this one which reads "Emails to write, Phone calls to have" make these a really unique gift.

8. Personalised Phone Case - €31.40 from Not on the high street 

This website does the most amazing, personalised and unique gifts. This is the place to go to shop for the person who has everything. These gifts are more personal and show you've put a bit more thought into it. I love this phone case as it lists all the things the person likes- perfect for a best friend!

What would be your favourite gift to receive?

Stay tuned for more instalments of this series in the coming weeks!

Look For Less | Ariana Grande

Aggghh! It's been so long, and I aologise for that. I've been so busy recently, with loads of different things. Also it was my birthday on Sunday! Anyway, I'm back with a Look for Less post of none other than the lovely Ariana Grande. She's really on the rise at the moment and you definitely need to check out her music if you haven't already. 

She is has a very signature style that is very cute and pretty, and this look is perfect for winter paired with tights and a coat. I like the way it also ties in the plaid trend too.

Both of these two pieces are available from Topshop. I always feel Topshop do the best clothing, that is both on trend and good quality. It can be a little pricey, but it's worth a few extra bob every now and again! For the top part of the look- we're keeping it simple with a plain white tee. Go for a loose fitting style and is looks a lot better with the skirt. This structured tee with zip detailing on the back (£34) is gorgeous, however chances are you'll have something similar in your wardrobe already!

Now for the statement part of the outfit, the tartan skirt! This is a key piece for Winter this fashion season. I'm not definite, but I think this may be the exact skirt Ariana is wearing. If it's not, is an almost identical match! Check it out here for £38.

You can finish the look with some simple white stilettos (I love these), ballet pumps or even some white Converse for a casual look. Don't forget that signature Ariana Grande, half up-half down hairstyle, grab some Starbucks- and you're good to go!

'Hope you like this look, and I promise to be a better blogger as much as possible! Stay tuned for a Birthday post maybe...

Moroccan Hair Oil Dupes!

Moroccan Oil is a cult product in the beauty world but it can be a little pricey. As with all successful products, many other brands have created their own version of the product. Here are two of my favourite (less expensive) dupes of the infamous hair product. All of which contain Argan Oil which is the same as what Moroccan Oil contains.

First up is a very inexpensive option in the form of Hask Argan Oil. For €2.50 you can pick up this bad boy in Penneys. It is quite thick oil so you definitely only need a small amount. The best part about this product is that it really works! It may not be super expensive but that doesn't mean it doesn't work. I definitely notice it helps keep my ends healthy and makes my hair look more shiny.

The VO5 miracle concentrate oil is also a great product. It's lighter in consistency than the aforementioned product and is slightly more expensive. It is a great product though and if your hair is thinner, this is a better choice and it isn't thick so it won't weigh down hair. This again really works and definitely helps dry ends. My hair was very dead at the ends and this helped bring it back to looking much healthier.

Tips when applying hair oils:

1. Less is more! Don't over apply the product or it will just make it greasy and heavy.

2. Focus on the ends of your hair and never apply to the roots. Again, this will just make it greasy.

3. I recommend applying this after you wash your hair, when it's not soaking wet but still damp to achieve best results.

4. Apply as often as you need it- I apply it pretty much every time I wash my hair (at least when I remember to) but I have very thick hair so this doesn't tend to weigh down my hair.

Moroccan Oil / 25ml : €17.50 available here

Hask Argain Oil: €2.50 available from Penneys

VO5 Miracle Concentrate: €6.89 from Boots

Have you tried any of these oils? Let me know your opinions in the comments!

Halloween Decor!

This Thursday is none other than the day of the dead- Halloween! 

I'm not the biggest fan of the holiday but that doesn't stop my house being decked out in Halloween gear...

These decorations have been collected up over the years so I can't guarantee you'll be able to find exact matches but definitely check out your local €2/ Pound shop. There's always some great bargains to be found in those sorts of places! If you think Halloween is tacky- there are some classy alternatives to decor. I especially love the tin signs pictured below and the black sparkly candles.

If you live state-side definitely checkout Target and Pottery Barn do the prettiest decorations. If you live  in Europe however, or anywhere else for that matter, you may have to do a little more searching!

Happy Halloween my lovelies! What are you dressing up as?

Guest Post | Favourite Autumn/Winter Products

Today's post is a guest post from Alex Georgie from her self entitled blog. Make sure to check out her blog!

Hi everyone!

 I’m Alex Georgie and I blog here!

Firstly I’d like to thank Stephanie so much for letting me guest post on her blog. I absolutely love Autumn so I’ll be telling you all about my favourite products this season. Onto the products...

With the colder weather drawing in, you definitely need a good moisturiser on hand (don’t want to be seeing any dry bits!). For this, I love Palmer’s Cocoa Butter. It’s so nourishing, has a lovely scent and this one has an added bonus of gradual tanning. I’m still convincing people that I “just got a really good holiday tan!”

I’m quite the flirt with face moisturisers, I flit between a few but currently I’ve been liking this one from Good Things. It’s not too heavy and I like that it has SPF in it for those bright Autumnal days. Plus this product has none of the nasty chemicals in and the fruity scent is divine!

I love darker polishes for Autumn/Winter and this glossy looking navy one is lovely. This is Collection (2000)’s 12 Blue My Mind. Opaque in one coat and with a pearl finish, this polish has been gracing my nails a lot more recently.

I’m a neutrals girl all year round but I love deepening the look with darker browns in Autumn/Winter, it just feels appropriate! I’ve been using Maybelline’s Colour Tattoo in On and On Bronze as a base, then 'Fiery' from MUA’s Undress Me Too palette all over the lid with 'Obsessed' for the outer corner and the crease. My go-to Autumn/Winter look right there!

In contrast to light, floral summer scents, I like my Autumn/ Winter scents to be heavier. I like this Diesel Plus Plus Feminine one because it’s still quite not too heavy, not too light (great description there Alex!). Like most beauty bloggers, I can’t describe scents but the top notes are bitter orange, lily-of-the-valley, cassis, pineapple and fruity notes.

I feel like I’m committing a beauty crime here including this candle. A sweet candle for Autumn?! No cinnamon, spicy, mulled wine like offering? I’m sorry! I had to include this candle as I’ve been burning it non-stop recently. Now I’d love this to be a Yankee Vanilla Cupcake candle but I just can’t bear to part with that much money for it (...yet) so instead I picked up this cheaper version of it in my local Dunelm Mill. The scent isn’t quite as strong but it smells like I’m constantly baking cupcakes so I’m happy!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this insight into my favourite Autumn/Winter products! 
Check out my blog here for more beauty and lifestyle offerings!

What are your favourite products for this season?

A big thank you to Alex for her great post. Don't forget to check out her blog here. If you'd be interested in guest posting on my blog send me an email: missbeautyblogger12@gmail.com

Review + Swatches | Riri ♥s MAC Blusher Duo in 'Hibiscus Kiss'

Good evening lovelies! I hope you're all doing well. If any of you are fans of MAC and/or Rihanna, then you'll most likely have heard of her latest collection for the brand. I was highly anticipating its release as the product images were absolutely gorgeous!

I'm not going to lie, a big reason I bought this was because of the packaging. How is it possible to walk away from pink, shiny makeup? It simply isn't! The shininess of the product does however make it very difficult to photograph. This photo isn't entirely accurate as it comes across quite orange looking in the photo. I cannot fault this packaging, except for the fact it's plastic, I would sort of like for it to be something more sturdy. However, it gets 10/10 for prettiness. This blush comes in a compact included with a mirror, perfect for on the go application.

The product inside is also gorgeous. It is a bronzer/blush duo which is why I'm confused as to why it is called a blusher only as there is more bronzer than blush in the product. Rihanna's signature is also embossed in the product which adds to the classiness of the product.

The product isn't particularly pigmented which is a bit disappointing. However, the bronzer is perfect for paler skinned ladies and can be built up if you're naturally tanner. If you have a deep complexion though I don't think this product is worth purchasing.

Overall, this is a lovely pretty product that is great to have purely to showcase on your vanity. Is it the best bronzer/blusher in the world? Nope, so don't feel as if you're hugely missing out without owning it. There are plenty better bronzers available on the market. However, it is still a nice product that I will continue to use and is worth purchasing if you fancy something for the collection.

RiRi for MAC Fall Collection is available in Brown Thomas stores and online. Hurry though as it is limited edition! - link

Hibiscus Kiss Duo- €30

Cool + Original Halloween Costume Ideas!

The countdown has begun! It's exactly two weeks until Halloween so you know what that means- it's time to start planning those costumes. I'm gonna be straight up honest here, Halloween isn't my favourite time of the year. I don't particularly dislike it but I do always dread having to dress up. Costumes aren't really my thing. That's why I've compiled this list of some cool and original costume ideas. So if you're not the biggest fan of costumes, or you're just stuck for an idea this year then read on.

1. Pretty Little Liars

Image: Google

If you're an avid Pretty Little Liars watcher, this will be the perfect costume for you this year. The best way to achieve this is to gather up three of your friends and be the cast of the programme. Use the image above to inspire your outfits. All you really need is a little black dress and smear some dirt marks on your body. Voila! 

2. Skeleton

Images: ASOS

Okay maybe this isn't the most original idea ever but it can actually look really cool and cute. I love these skeleton leggings (€24.26 ASOS), paired with this cut out t-shirt (€14.15 ASOS). It's a perfect laid back costume that doesn't even look like costume! 

3. Piñata

Images: Seventeen Magazine

This idea is definitely super original! You're almost guaranteed no one else will be dressing up as this. You'll need a lot of crepe paper and time to do this one, as it's a DIY Project. Check out Camilla Styles tutorial here to create this costume! This is one of my personal favourites.

3. Minion (from Despicable Me)

Image: MacBarbie07 YouTube

If you feel like releasing you're inner child- this is the perfect costume! Definitely not the sexiest look but who cares, it's fun! MacBarbie07 on YouTube does a great tutorial (here) for this outfit. If you're not feeling in the mood to do it yourself you can also purchase a ready made costume here.

4. Miley Cyrus VMA's Bear Costume

Image: Google

When I found this costume idea on YouTube, I couldn't not add it to this list. Yes it's crazy, yes it's controversial but cool and original? Definitely. I personally wouldn't wear this but if you like turning heads, go for it! LikeWowLala on YouTube has the tutorial so check it out here. Amazon is also selling a ton of outfits to get the Miley look (you can even get a Robin Thicke costume!). Check them all out here.

5. Makeup

Image: http://keltiecolleen.buzznet.com

If you really dislike the idea of getting dressed up, just go for some crazy makeup. There are so many makeup looks out there, from corpse bride to gorey and bloody you'll find something that appeals to you. Just Google or YouTube search your desired look for hundreds of tutorials.

They're my ideas for Halloween this year. Will you be dressing up this year?

Instagram Diary #3

I'm just going to start with a big apology. I have been a very bad blogger lately. I have been so so busy and just haven't had the time to type! I promise I am trying my best and expect lots of new posts as I get back into my mojo. Anyway....

Here's a little peek into my life.

These photos include pics from my Summer holidays, friends, concerts and fun.

Beautiful Cathedral in Albi, France//Disney Castle//The Alps//Beach//Crashing waves//Out on the town!//Macklemore concert//Forest//Bruno Mars concert!

Just a little side note regarding the last photo taken at the Bruno Mars concert in Dublin. If you ever get the chance to see him perform in concert- take it. He is an unbelievable performer and put on one of the best shows I've ever seen! Plus a lot of gold glitter was involved- I mean what's not to love?!

Just Do it

I know it can be annoying to see fitness and exercise plastered everywhere but sorry guys, I'm joining in. The thing is, fitness is actually really, really important. I'm not saying you need to become a mega gym bunny but getting your heart racing every now and then doesn't do any harm- your future self will thank you! Also guess what? Exercise doesn't have to be boring. I'm going to give you a few fun way to get fit. Their easy and also don't cost a fortune!

• Zumba

Zumba is a Latin dance type of exercise. If you have two left feet, don't be disheartened! Zumba doesn't require any previous dance experience and it is super easy to follow. It's honestly so much fun! Extra bonus- it burns a ton of calories (about 500 per hour). If typical workouts bore you, I would definitely recommend attending a Zumba class. There available everywhere and a quick google search will let you know of your closest Zumba class.

• Hike/Cycle with your friends!

I'm not gonna lie- I'm not really into hikes. However if you're in the right place with the right people, they can actually be pretty fun. Hiking in a beautiful area, makes you feel like you're not even exercising. Soak up your surroundings and it can become an experience! The same goes for a cycle. I prefer cycles because you can cover a lot more space very quickly in comparison to walking. 

To check out some trails see www.irishtrails.ie

• Wii Games

If you prefer to exercise from the comfort of your own home, then why not invest in some Wii games. There are so many games specifically designed for workouts. My personal favourite is Just Dance. It's super fun and doesn't even feel like your exercising. If boxing is more your thing try Punch-Out! Another great game is Active Life: Outdoor Challenge. You don't even have to leave your house so you have no excuse!

These are a few of my recommendations but my best advice is to do something you love! Joining a sports team is great if you love a particular sport, and it will also motivate you to go to your training sessions. I can promise you one thing- you will never regret doing a workout. You'll feel great and in turn, you'll look great!

Let me know your favourite ways to workout below!

My Obsessions | Wildflower Phone Cases

If you have an iPhone, you're probably always on the hunt for a new case? Or maybe that's just me... Regardless, you will be after I show you these cases. 

Wildflower cases are a new Californian company. They started off making phone cases but have now expanded into clothing also. Each case is handmade and features gorgeous designs and studs. Whatever your into, you'll find a case that suits your personality. They have everything from floral designs to their newest donut design! You may recognise their cases from many instagram pics. Their cases have been sported by the likes of Kylie Jenner, Hilary Duff and Miley Cyrus.

I purchased this case last November after eyeing them up for months! It has kept up great, and provides really great protection for my phone without being too bulky. The studs have tarnished a tiny bit but besides that, it's definitely lasted extremely well. It is lined with rubber around the edges and the floral design is material which is covered by a protective layer. It is no doubt made extremely well.

For such a great case, comes a price. Their cases are $35 with International shipping costing $19.95. $55 seems a lot for a phone case but they don't get much cuter and more unique than this. I receive so many compliments whenever I have this case on my phone and I am yet to see someone with the same case. Wildflower only make limited quantities of their cases to ensure you have an original product!

Definitely the prettiest and most fashion forward cases in my opinion!

Wildflower cases available from their website

Review | Vaseline Spray & Go Body Moisturiser

Hello lovelies! Sometimes I feel like I can be a bit of a failure at being a girl. I get so lazy when it comes to certain beauty routines and one of those routines is moisturising. If you're like me, then this product will be a saviour! 

Vaseline are better known for their petroleum jelly, multi-use product. Their newest product is their spray & go moisturiser. It is pretty much what it says on the tin. The packaging is akin to that of a deodorant and you use it in the same way too. Simply spray this about 10cm from your body and then quickly rub in. The entire process takes about 2 minutes. So much quicker than a traditional body cream moisturiser. It comes in three scents; Pure Oat Extract, Aloe Fresh and Cocoa Radiant. I went for pure oat extract and I really like the scent. It's sort of fresh and homely if that makes any sense at all.

So it does what it says, but how good is it at actually moisturising? Very. It sinks into the skin quickly and leaves skin moisturised but not damp with moisture as I often find cream products to do. If you need an intense moisturiser, I'm not sure this will fulfil your needs. However, if you don't have particularly dry skin but just like to add a bit of extra moisture to your skin, then this product is perfect.

Overall I definitely think this is a product worth checking out and for €6.15 you can't go wrong! I'll definitely be re-purchasing. 

Available from Boots- €6.15

Nars Laguna Bronzer | Review & Swatch + Bronzer Recommendations and Tips (#TheSoProject)

Phew, these past few weeks have been pretty manic in my world and I don't see things slowing down anytime soon. Unfortunately, due to that blogging has been taking a bit of a back seat. I am making my best efforts, but I do wish I could post more often. At the moment- twice a week is about the maximum I can manage. Anyway, today I am bringing you a review of my current favourite bronzer which is none other than the infamous Laguna bronzer by Nars (€33.83). This is also my fourth instalment of the The Starting Off Project (click here to find out more).

This bronzer comes neatly packaged in a sleek, matte, black compact. It is the typical, non-exciting Nars packaging here. I think it looks classy and expensive but by golly do these get grubby looking quickly. It is near impossible to not have your fingerprints all over this due to the finish of the packaging. There is a great sized mirror housed inside the compact, which makes it perfect for on the go application

Finish wise, this is an almost-matte (there is a teeny tiny bit of shimmer that isn't noticeable on but is faint in pan) brown that should suit most light-medium skin tones. It is not very dark so if you are on the darker side of the skin tone spectrum, this may not show up on you very well. It is very easy to build up and is a perfect contour and all-round bronzer. It's very natural looking which I love and lasts the entire day.

Overall I love this bronzer and it has become apart of my daily makeup routine during the past few weeks. I finally know what all of the fuss is about! However, if Nars is a bit out of your budget there are plenty of other great bronzers on the market. 'Bourjois Delice de Poudre' (€8.99) is a great highstreet alternative. It also smells faintly of chocolate which is always a bonus in my books! Another favourite of mine is Hoola by Benefit (€34). Definitely not exactly pocket friendly but it's a great one to try if you're on the hunt for a new bronzer. 

The Bronzing Basics

If you're new to the bronzing world, here are a few tips to get you on your way. If you're like me, you'll never look back!

• Bronzer can be used for a number of reasons. The most obvious reason would be to bronze your face, and make you look more tanned. Another major reason is to contour your face. This means that you would use the product to accentuate certain features or hide others. The best place to use bronzer is under your cheekbones. Make a fishy face and apply product from the edge of your face until you reach the outside of your eye in a downwards motion. You can also apply the product along your temples and down the sides of your nose (this creates the illusion of a smaller nose). 
• Make sure to blend! Nobody wants a VCL (that's visible contour line, don't you know!). Harsh lines are a no no.
• Don't apply bronzer onto your inner cheeks, this will just make your makeup look patchy and muddy. Never a desired look.
• Use a contour brush to apply bronzer. This makes contouring a lot easier than using a big powder brush.
• If you're afraid of using bronzer- don't be! It's the perfect product to create a natural, sun-kissed look and really helps highlight your best features.

They're my tips and recommendations for bronzers. I hope you enjoyed this and let me know of any tricks or product recommendations in the comments!