Mini Primark Haul!

I've been seeing lots of Primark hauls around lately and thought I needed to make a trip to the land of bargains myself. Primark is actually called Penneys here in Ireland, just incase you get a bit confused! 

Most of my shopping recently is Summer oriented. I'm off to France for 3 weeks from the 1st of June and then I head to Florida straight after that so I'm doing my Summer shopping now and getting all those essentials, but I'm also trying to save aaaagh! Anyway, on with what I bought. 

I firstly headed to the swimwear section of the store, as Penneys always carry tons of swimsuits, all well priced. I don't know about you, but I find it very difficult to justify purchasing super expensive swimsuits (which most seem to be!). This bright floral two-piece caught my eye and at just €5 for both the top and the bottoms, I knew I had to have it. I then went to the accessories, to take a look at their bags on offer. As I'll be doing lots of activities in France (it's an exchange type of trip) I need a bag I can carry a lot in. I went for this denim acid-wash backpack (€10) because it's cute, a perfect size and will go with any outfit.

Of course, I couldn't leave the store without checking out some of their makeup. Penneys carries the best range of essence makeup I've ever seen, their nail range in particular is amazing! I decided to try out this nail art stampy set (€3.50) because it looked interesting and, as you probably know, I do have a love for nail art! Unfortunately, after trying the set out, it doesn't really work. Maybe it's just me doing something wrong, but the designs didn't come out on my nails. I wouldn't recommend it. 

I would, however, recommend the XXL Shine gel-look topcoat. A friend recommended this to me and, as I did need a new topcoat, I decided to pick it up. It adds a gorgeous shine to the nails and does have a gel-look effect. I will say that it can cause nail polish to peel, if you tend to try and pick polish off. Otherwise, it prevents chipping and is overall a great topcoat. I can't remember the exact price but it's somewhere around the €2 mark.

The last item I picked up is the HASK Argan oil hair treatment. I have seen this floating around the web, with pretty good reviews. I'm always looking for products to add shine and prevent split ends so I thought I'd give it a go. Also, at €2.50, it's a much more affordable alternative to the likes of Moroccan Oil. I haven't really had a proper go with this product yet but look out for a review of this soon.

I hope you enjoyed seeing a few bits I picked up in Primark/Penneys. I only bought these items a few days ago so they should all still be available in-store! 

Have you bought any bargains in Primark recently?

Summer Beach Wishlist!

Summer is right around the corner, and that means barbecues, beach days and pool days. Of course for all these new activities, it's the perfect excuse to go shopping, right? Here are a few things I consider to be essential for those days spent relaxing on the beach or lounging pool side.

Of course, the most important item for anything involving water, is a swimsuit. I love this bikini from Figleaves. They carry a great range of swimwear for whatever shape you may be or swimsuit preferences you may have. They are also holding a competition entitled "Pin To Win" where you could be in the chance to win a £150 holiday collection. Click here for more information.

What I love most about this swimsuit is the pink string detailing at the sides of both the top and bottoms parts of the bikini. It's very unique and there's something very stylish about the look. I also love the colour scheme. The black is simple but the pink adds a gorgeous pop of colour.

Bikini Top- £20/€25.64
Bikini Bottom- £15/€19.23
Both available here.

Now onto styling your swimsuit. I love all of these items and they are all must-haves for the beach.

1. High Waisted Shorts

I've mentioned numerous times how much I love high-waisted shorts. They're especially great to pair with a swimsuit as they cover the tummy area and don't leave too much exposed compared to low rise shorts.

Bambi & Manson Shorts range from £55-70 available here

2. Summer Hat

Trilby hats are huge this season. They add a touch of trendiness to an outfit and also protect your hair and face from the sun. Perfect for hot days on the beach!

Vans trilby £25/€29.75 available here

3. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a very important item for sunny days as they protect your eyes. That's why investing in a  good pair of sunglasses is a good idea. Of course Ray-Ban are the go-to brand when it comes to sunglasses. They carry a great range and I love this pair- they're lightweight and versatile and a nice change from the typical Wayfarer style.

Ray-Ban Sunglasses available here 

4. Gladiator Sandals

Gladiator sandals are the perfect Summer shoe. They go with everything and allow feet to breathe too. I love these as they are gold, which compliments a tan and is a really versatile colour.

Schuh Gladiator Sandals €45 available here

5. Backpack

Hobo-style rucksacks are the perfect luggage item for Summer. They carry everything (within reason!) and add a laid back, cool vibe to any outfit. I especially love this one as it mixes leather and aztec print.

Brandy Melville Backpack $55 available here

6. BB Cream

On a hot Summers day, you don't want to wear a heavy foundation. It's important to have a lightweight base with sun protection. BB creams are perfect as they add colour to the face as well as blurring imperfections. This particular BB cream also contains SPF 30 which is amazing!

Maybelline 8-in-1 BB Cream £7.99/€11.95 available here

 7. Waterproof Mascara

If you're swimming, you don't want to have to worry about panda eyes! The way to solve this problem is with a waterproof mascara so you can still open up your eyes, without the mess.

Maybelline Colossal Volume Waterproof mascara £7.99/€9.94 available here.

8. Lip Balm

The sun is great, but it does tend to dry out the lips. To stop this from happening it's important to wear a lip balm with SPF in it. Carmex are famous for their lip balms and this one is Cherry flavoured- all the more reason to get it!

Carmex Cherry lip balm £2.69/€4.35 available here

9. Waterproof Concealer

If you have a few blemishes or dark circles that need covering up, a waterpoof concealer is essential.

NYX Waterproof Concealer $5 available here

Those are the items on my Summer wishlist for beach or pool days! What items are you lusting after for this Summer season?

Disclaimer: This is a PR Collaboration. All opinions are my own and are 100% honest, as always.

How I Style: Skater/Circle Skirts

Skater skirts (or circle skirts) are everywhere lately and are a staple fashion item for Spring and Summer this year. They're one of my favourite clothing items for this season and I know I'll be wearing them all the time when the weather (hopefully) warms up! 

Skater skirts can be worn multiple ways. They're also super flattering and suit any body shape so don't worry if you feel not all trends work with your shape, as this one is pretty universal. I'm going to show you two looks, on how I style skater skirts. One is for casual occasions and the other for slightly dressier occasions.

• Casual 

This is the perfect look if you're going shopping, to the pool, meeting with friends- really any casual occasion. It's comfortable and stylish so it ticks all the boxes! I decided to go with a light wash denim skater skirt (€25 River Island) as it's super versatile, and can be worn with numerous pieces. I paired it with this simple cropped tee (£8 Topshop) which is a staple piece for Summer. To finish the look pop on some crotchet Toms (€58 Schuh) and a tan fringe bag (€45 River Island) to carry around all your essentials.

• Dressy

This look is perfect for a night out, whether it be to a party or just out to dinner with family or friends. I adore this lace circle skirt from Topshop (€38) as it can be dressed up or down and adds a touch of femininity to any look. This embellished top (£39 Miss Selfridge) is stunningly detailed and instantly glams up the ensemble. Top of the look with some killer wedges (£80 Topshop) and some rings to add a pop of colour to the outfit (£2.50 Misbehave) and you're good to go!

I hope you like these looks and let me know how you style skater/circle skirts!

Current Wishlist!

There are always so many things we want, but don't really need. Also our bank balance doesn't really allow it. When you can't have something, why not make a list about it? That way we can at least pretend we have some of these things...right? I love reading these posts, so here are a list of things I've been lusting after, some for longer than others.

1. Clarisonic Mia 2

I have been eyeing the Clarisonic for such a long time. There have been mixed reviews about the product, but the majority have claimed it does wonders for their skin. I suffer from combination-oily, sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts and feel that this product could really improve my skin. The only thing that is holding me back is the hefty price tag but hopefully I'll get to pick it up when I visit America this Summer. 

Clarisonic Mia 2- €140

Clarisonic full size- €175 - both available here.

2. Wildfox Tee

I have mentioned before that I am in love with all things Wildfox. There clothing is beyond comfy and all their slogans are sassy and clever (did I seriously just say sassy?!). I have been lusting after this "Shopping is my cardio" tee recently- it's just fabulous! 

€64.72 available here

3. Nars Orgasm Blush/ Laguna Bronzer duo

Another cult product. Nars Orgasm blush and Laguna bronzer are raved about in the world of beauty. As they are quite pricey products, the more economical thing to do would be to get the duo, right?... I think it's gone too far when I'm saying that buying high end makeup can be "economical". Regardless, I still need this blush/bronzer duo!

$41 available here

4. Yurbuds Sport Earphones

I've been doing my best to work out as much as I can but I always have to listen to some tunes while working out! It keeps me going. The only problem is my earphones keep falling out, so I've been researching some sport earphones. The best seem to be "Yurbuds". Again, I'll probably end up getting these across the pond as the shipping rates to Ireland are crazy!

$29.99 available here

5. Bambi & Manson Shorts

If you're looking for some unique and gorgeous high-waisted shorts, you need to check out Bambi & Manson. They make their own handmade shorts with gorgeous designs, think bows, studs, galaxy and so much more. The problem is, as their shorts are so sought after, they only release batches of Limited Edition shorts that sell out in minutes. They are working on their own-brand denim at the mo which means lots more shorts- yipee! 

Shorts range from £55-£70 available here

They're the items I've been lusting after recently. What items are on your wishlist?

Review + Swatches | Benefit Go Tropicoral Lip & Cheek Kit

I hope you're all doing well and getting all set for Summer! One thing that's fun about Summer is the excuse to wear brighter makeup and experiment a little. One of my favourite colours to wear on my lips and cheeks is coral as it's bright, but not too bright. Benefit have come up with the perfect kit to create a gorgeous coral look and it comes in the form of their "Go Tropicoral" lip & cheek kit. 

This kit is one of three kits in Benefit's lip & cheek kit range. The other two being "Feelin' Dandy" and "Sugarlicious". This kit is based around their infamous blush, "Coralista". The kit comes with a mini (3g) version of blush, along with their signature blush brush. It also comes with a mini (4ml) high beam and Cha Cha Tint. I have pictured their mini "bene tint" as my sister and I swapped but it did originally contain a Cha Cha Tint. The final beauty product in this set is a mini (6.5ml) Coralista lip gloss. The kit is complete with a small handbook of tips and tricks which instructs you on how to use the kit.

This kit is perfect for travel as all the products are miniature and it contains everything you need to brighten up your makeup. The tint can be used on your lips or cheeks as a long-lasting stain. One of my personal favourite Benefit products is their "HighBeam" highlighter. It provides a gorgeous sheen to your face. I love to apply it to my cheekbones or my brow-bone as it gives a gorgeous glow that looks especially great in the Summer time.

The final two products are the corresponding "Coralista" blush and lip gloss. The blush is one of Benefits bestsellers and is always raved about, and for good reason too. It is a shimmery coral that isn't too bright and adds a gorgeous, natural flush to the face. The gloss is a great size to pop in your handbag and sheers out to give a pretty pop of colour to the lips. It's not as bright as the swatch below once applied- don't worry! It also smells yummy and fruity which is always a bonus!

Swatches from top-bottom: Coralista lip gloss// Coralista blush//Benetint//High Beam

Overall, this is a great kit and perfect for the Summer time. All the products are great quality and none of them disappoint. If you want to try out a few products from Benefit, this is a great and more affordable way of doing so rather than purchasing each product individually. 

Benefit Go Tropicoral Lip & Cheek Kit: €35 available from Brown Thomas & Debenhams as well as Benefit counters nation wide.

Summer Fashion Essentials 2013

Summer is right around the corner, and we all know what that means- a perfect excuse to go shopping! It's time to trade in your winter boots for some sandals and your heavy jumpers for a few crop tops. To help not break the bank, I've narrowed it down to a few essential pieces that everyone should have in their Summer wardrobe. 

♡  High-Waisted Shorts

Left-Right: MissGuided €32.41 //ASOS €39.39

Shorts are an obvious staple piece for Summer, and high-waisted are even better. They are super flattering as they hide any lumps and bumps and keep that tummy in, not to mention they're extremely versatile. 

♡  Crop Tops

Left-Right: Topshop £28//American Apparel €24

Crop tops are a huge trend this season, and are perfect for those hot Summer days (which we don't get a lot of, *sigh*). They can be worn poolside as a swimsuit coverup and are also great paired with anything high waisted if you aren't comfortable with baring your tummy.

♡  Skater Skirts

Left-Right: Topshop £16// River Island €25

Skater, or circle skirts, are huge this year and are my favourite style of skirt. They're flirty and fun and also high-waisted making them super flattering as they accentuate the waist and skim over the tummy and hips. They are available in numerous patterns, colours and textures so whatever your style, you'll be sure to find a skater skirt for you.

♡  Gladiator Sandals

Left-Right: ASOS €59.09//Forever 21 €26.90

Gladiator sandals are a reoccurring staple in my Summer wardrobe. The reason being is that they're comfortable, stylish and can be paired with anything- what more could you want in a shoe?

♡  Summer Dress

Left-Right: ismodo.com €38//Motel €47.50

This is an obvious choice but I thought I'd state it anyway. The Summer dress is an essential item as you're guaranteed to wear it. Getting a dress that is suitable for numerous occasions is key. Choose a dress you can wear to a barbecue, the beach and even a party to save a few bob. 

♡ Swimwear

Left: Bikini €7 Lace Kimono €17 both from Penneys/Primark // Top-Bottom: ASOS bottoms €21.01 top €23.63// River Island Fullsuit peplum €40

Again, another obvious essential. The main tip here is to choose swimwear that is right for you. If you don't feel too confident in a bikini, try a full suit or a tankini. Another great option is high waisted bikini as it hides the tummy and gives that retro Marilyn Monroe vibe. 

Spring/Summer Fashion Trends 2013

Hey Girlies,

So whether Spring has actually arrived yet is arguable. Some say the first day of Spring is February 1st, but apparently the astronomical date of arrival for Spring is March 20th. Anyway, regardless of whether Spring is here or not, Spring fashion is definitely making it's way into stores, so here are some trends to look out for in the shops. 

• Patterns

Once again, patterns are a huge trend this season. This time, mostly in monochromatic colours, ie. black and white. Seen allover the Marc Jacobs runway, stripes are an especially huge pattern trend- think Parisian chic!

Try this cropped striped jumper from Topshop for £32.

• 60's Inspiration

As with everything in life, what goes around eventually comes back around! Root through your mother's wardrobe and be inspired by sixties fashion. Think pop art graphics, futuristic mod and even hippie! Everyone from Moschino to Prada is rocking this trend for Spring.

I love this tee from Topshop, very "Big Bang Theory"! Get it here for £18.

• Pencil Skirts

The pencil skirt is back. Seen on everyone's runway from Oscar de la Renta to Alexander McQueen, this is one trend that you can most definitely rock in the office. This season, however, these won't be any old pencil skirts. Think frills, splits and metallic prints.

This sequin skirt from ASOS is perfect for a date night or dressing up for the office. Pick it up here for €101.14

                                        

• Bomber Jackets

This is the jacket of the season. Seen on many runways including Chanel and Stella McCartney. Whether it be embroidered, embellished or just plain and simple, there's a bomber jacket out there for everyone.

This cute jacket is perfect for everyday wear. It is by Pippa Lynn and us currently on sale for €51.24 (originally €94.40) on ASOS. Check it out here.

That's my lineup of the Spring/Summer trends of 2013. Let me know what trends you'll be trying and there are any I missed!

P.S Don't forget to enter my MAC giveaway! To find out how to enter, click here.