Friday 26 October 2012

Now you can feel like a bond-girl with OPI’s new collection




As we all know this year is the 50th anniversary of James Bond. Skyfall is the new film Starring Daniel Craig and Javier Bardem, this highly-anticipated twenty-third installment opens in cinemas nationwide on October 26, 2012. OPI have are celebrating the 50th anniversary 007 and honouring Skyfall by releasing a 12 piece nail varnish collection named Skyfall. This eye catching collection will allow any women to feel like a bond-girl. Split into two themes, six shades are inspired  by seduction , and the other six inspired by danger and action .

Bond girl inspired- sexy six
GoldenEye : All eyes will be upon you when you wear this glorious gold.


The Spy Who Loved Me : A red as romantic as the secret agent inside you.

 Die Another Day : Live in the moment in this hot and lively red. 


Casino Royale : This high-rolling plum is fit for royalty.

You Only Live Twice : This rich high-shimmer magenta is a once-in-a-lifetime find.

Skyfall : Get Bonded with this magnificent maroon.









Bond inspired-dangerous six
Moonraker : Drive your fastest car to get this exhilarating metallic grey.

 Tomorrow Never Dies : This eternally intense purple will live forever.


 The Living Daylights : This courageous multi-hued glitter sparkles 24/007.



 On Her Majesty’s Secret Service : This misty-green pewter commands attention.


 Live & Let Die : Burn the candles on both ends in this private jet black.

 The World is Not Enough : This rosy silver is as addictive as it is beautiful.


If that is not enough there is also available is a topcoat made of 18k gold leaf, glamour  at its finest! If you want to feel like a bond-girl too this  collection  can be bought as a complete collection (link below)  or individually. I am going  to purchase 'Tomorrow never  dies' and  'On her majesty's service' .


OPI have lot's of other great colours, all have great depth, dry quickly and the brushes are perfect they apply the nail varnish quickly and accurately.

Do you have any of these? What are your thoughts on this collection?

How to build a classic wardrobe



A classic wardrobe is a collection of clothes that no matter what the current trends are, is always in fashion. In order to build a classic wardrobe you need to collect items that are not only timeless but are flattering shapes and colours for your figure. Always choose items that you can mix-and-match to give different looks. When buying your basics remember to buy then in neutral colours as they are most versatile think black, grey, tan, dark brown, white, and cream.

The basics-items which are ageless



  • Keep a variety of  fitted vest/tank tops and camisoles. These can be used in layering under other clothes or wearing with cropped trousers or skirts on a summer day
  • Invest in a neutral knee-length pencil skirt. Go with black for the most versatility.
  • Buy smart trousers in a neutral colour. Take your time in choosing the right cut to flatter your legs.
  • Own a white, fitted blouse
  • Look for a jacket that matches the colour and/or style of your pencil skirt and smart trousers.
  • Purchase a few colourful jumpers in varying thicknesses. Choose colours that work well with your skin tone and styles such as polo-neck
  • Have one thick cardigan and one thin one
  • Find your perfect little black dress. A good little black dress can be dressed up for semi-formal occasions or dressed down for nights out.
  • Have at least one pair of flattering jeans. Look for dark-wash denim and a classic style, e.g. boot cut
  • Also own a pair of flattering linen trouser. Sometimes there is an occasion where jeans are too casual and suits are too dressy. 
  • Purchase a long fitted coat suitable for all weather. Think trench and chesterfield style

A few seasonal basics

  • Keep a few dresses handy for warm spring and early summer weather.
  • A Maxi-dress is a summer must. It can be summer glamour in the day or dressed up for dinner in the evening.
  • Purchase cropped trousers for the warmer weather. Choose a length and cut (loose or fitted) that flatters your legs.
  •  A  Cashmere V-neck top can be useful.  The cashmere is light but warm ,perfect for those unpredictable days
  • Consider purchasing a fitted double-breasted coat in a shorter length for autumn and winter.
  • Add a splash of colour, look for tops in colours that co-ordinate well with your skin tone.
  • Search for pinstripe trousers or blouses.
  • A pair of black leggings perfect for mix-and-match  and layering
  • White T-shirt short and long sleeve.
  • White jeans: A more glamorous type of jeans, they are effortlessly cool. All they need is a cashmere V-neck on top for a casual look. They even work in the winter paired with a jumper dress or a fur (faux)
  • Sunglasses – not just to protect your eyes from the sun but are great for creating a cool, glamorous or trendy fashion statement out in the sun. Nothing is more important than selecting the right pair for your face shape and features.
  • Scarves are amazing at adding interest or a pop of colour to a plain outfit.

Keep your jewellery box stocked with accessories that are always stylish.

  • When buying jewellery look for classic stones like diamonds and pearls. Look for basic gold and silver chains. It’s good to have a mix of both metals. Have more of the metal that suits your skin tone best, if you have fair, rosy skin silver looks best, while those with yellow tints to their complexion usually look best in gold.
  • Own at least one basic pendant necklace.
  • Those who have pierced ears should have a selection of studs, hoops, and dangly earrings.
  • Have a gold or silver bracelet; they look great with almost anything. Choose eye-catching bracelets as your wrist, being a smaller part of the body is most often near your hips, which is often the widest part of your body, drawing attention to your wrist, not your hips. 

Shoes the basics.

  • Own a pair of high-heels. Black court shoes are considered the most popular. Pointed toes tend to elongate your leg, but either will do depending upon your outfit
  • Look for a pair of kitten-heeled sandals for summer events.
  • Consider a pair of boots for autumn and winter. They are a must as we want to stay warm, but not compromise on style. 
  • Keep a pair of ballet flats (nude, black, bright colour or print)  these can be dressed up or down
  • A pair of Uggs. For me warmth and comfort are important these boots provide this but they are so versatile you can wear them with jeans, joggers, dresses, skirts or leggings. 


Wednesday 24 October 2012

Gym on hold






Hi everyone,

I thought I should justify why I have not wrote a weight-loss post in a while. I have not put on here  previously about my Dads bad health but he has had to have an operation and we are staying at my mums and taking her in everyday, so we are not at home so the gym is on hold. Its a bit disappointing but we will have to have a fresh start once everything is back to normal.


Tips for finding the perfect wedding venue



  • ·        First of all you need to decide what means the most to you and your fiancée. Draw up a shortlist and prioritise them into categories ‘Must have’, ‘needed but can compromise’ and ‘would be nice but not a necessity’  . Be flexible about your choice of wedding venue, you’re more likely to find a better deal if your open minded.
  • ·         Search for wedding venues online, you can cover more distance and most venues have their brochure on the website this will give you something to compare and add to short list.
  • ·         Draw up a shortlist of potential wedding venues, check availability, then make an appointment to visit. Popular wedding venues will be busy at weekends, especially during peak wedding season so make sure you book in advance or make yourselves available week days.
  • ·         Have a few dates in mind just in case your first venue choice is not available. If the venue owner is keen to fill the space, you might be able to negotiate a discount on your wedding venue. Think of dates that are significant to you both as a couple date you meet, first date, first kiss, date or time he proposed.
  • ·         Make a wedding mood-board or scrap book so you can both get a vision of what you want your wedding to look like so you can keep this in mind when visiting venues.
  • ·         Visit different wedding venues and spend time looking around. Have a look at portfolios of other people’s weddings; see how this venue matches your wedding vision, style and feel.
  • ·         Make sure you know how many people will be in attendance including yourselves! It sounds obvious but make sure the room is large enough to accommodate your guest list. The space may look huge when it's empty, but do not underestimate the  amount of  space needed for  the wedding essentials ie  tables, chairs, a buffet, a bar, the band or DJ setup, the dance ample room on floor . Not to mention your guests will need some elbow room. The best way to assess the size of a site? Ask to come and view the venue when another wedding (with an equivalent guest list size) is all set up.
  • ·         Bear in mind you will need logical areas within the space where guests can eat, drink, talk, and dance. When you're standing in the space, try to envision where each activity would happen (especially if your ceremony will be there). You can choose to have these areas in different sections of one large room or in separate adjoining room. Make note of obstacles e.g. columns or large fireplaces – position your areas around this ie dance floor ( for the first dance) or the cake table, very importantly  top table remember your guests are there to see you?
  • ·         Decide how important  privacy is to you-. If you're having a daytime event in a public spot, such as a park, beach or botanic garden, be prepared for strangers to trek past your party. They may even smile, wave, and come by to offer their good wishes. If this is okay with you, go for the park. If not, opt for a lawn on a private estate or golf course. Or, hold the reception at a restaurant or gallery that will allow you to have guest only. Be sure to ask about available security at your site to keep gate-crashers at bay, the minimum service I have found is invitation only with staff manning the entrance / exit.
  • In addition, don't think that just because you're indoors, you're safe from uninvited guests. Banquet halls and hotels often hold more than one affair at a time. If there'll be other events going on simultaneously in rooms close to yours, you may hear karaoke-loving guests singing their hearts out through the walls or fighting for room in the bathroom. If this bothers you, try to schedule your wedding when there won't be another one next door. If this is impossible, visit the site on a dual-party night and see how the sound carries and whether there really are any major people problems - before you make a decision.

  • ·         Light can make or break the mood and the space. If you're marrying during the day, make sure your hall has plenty of natural light. Will you be able to set up candles if necessary? Visit the site at the same time of day that you've chosen for your wedding. Even if the space looks romantic by candlelight, you may be surprised by the sight of the old furniture by day. You'll also miss a chance to see how sunlight streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows completely transforms the room, if you only check it out in the evening
  • ·         Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate as we all know if you don’t ask you don’t get! If they can’t lower the price ask them to add more to the package- free rooms for the wedding party, flowers on the table or free chair covers and sashes.
  • ·         Weddings can be expensive so it’s easy to just ‘accept’ the cost quoted. If you don’t think it’s worth paying what you’re being quoted, try to negotiate or walk away.
  • ·         Before you pay a deposit and sign a contract, read through the contract carefully. Look out for any hidden extras or restrictions and anything that contradicts what the wedding venue has already told you. If in doubt – ask.


Monday 22 October 2012

The Body Shop- Shimmer Cube

The Body Shop- Shimmer Cube




I have had this cube ( not one set but repeatedly bought lol) for about 7 years, I love it because you can build up for bold smokey colour for a night out but also it can be  nicely blended for daytime.  The colours have been put together  to complement each other, and blend beautifully no-matter the combination.

These eyeshadows are light I often forget I have it on. Pigmentation/staying power is really important   factor when I am choosing an eye shadow and these certainly don’t disappoint. I think the main reason these last so long is that you need minimal product to achieve a dramatic look, and even less to achieve a subtle glow ; and it will stay put for hours. One of these bad boys will set you back £16 bear in mind the shadow goes all the way to the bottom of the cube , but when you take into consideration the quality of the product, and how long it will be sat on your dressing table, I think it’s a bargin! 

http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/make-up/eyes/shimmer-cube-palette.aspx


Pamper, Relax and indulge





Decadence said the wise man "is like a sumptuous caramel with a slow-burn creamy sweetness. Soft brown toffee, like clotted cream ice cream in the summer melting to hot butter fudge. Take extra care as forbidden fruit is the temptation that makes indulgence so wonderfully divine_


After reading that I want to jump in the bath NOW!! The packaging is cleverly done as it is clear so you can see the golden liquid that is tempting in its self, the open the black flip top ad the glorious sent rises, it smells like buttery fudge - incredibly sweet and a surprisingly accurate fudge scent - it almost makes me hungry!

As they say the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
When I first pour this into the bath I find that it's rather thick in consistency and the scent is very strong. You don't need to use a huge amount per use, and pretty much the moment this is poured into the bath you get a mass of thick, frothy bubbles. This is important to me  as you get more baths out of the bottle.
The scent of the product does linger once I'm in the bath, I also find that the bubbles will last the entire duration of my bath.

I find my skin feels  soft and hydrated after using this I buy the 500ml size costing £3.98 from ASDA. If you are like me prefer to match your bath/shower cream to your scrubs or moisturisers, there is also a sugar scrub available in the same scent which can also be purchased from ASDA stores.
Overall I can say this is 10/10 for the indulgent bath for when I have had a tough day and need a treat and relax. It smells heavenly and creates lots of long lasting bubbles. 


Sunday 21 October 2012

You know your English When...

You know your English When...

I was reading through some blogs when I came across a post called ' you know when your from Florida when', I thought it was great so I decided to write one on being English. 

You know your English When....


  • You moan when it’s too hot, you moan when it’s too cold.
  • You use the word  "sky", 99% of the time it refers to the satellite TV..
  • You pity anyone who’s never shopped in Primark.
  • You have a roast dinner every Sunday. EVERY Sunday.
  • You know that school uniforms are the itchiest and ugliest items of clothing ever invented.
  • You have invested in a seriously good umbrella, and watched it get turned inside out almost straight away by the wind.
  • You know what a chav is, and how they must be avoided at all costs.
  • You eat chips, not fries.
  • You know that contrary to  American TV programmes not all  “English”  sound like the Queen.
  • You know that English people don’t all live in little thatched cottages, play croquet and eat cucumber sandwiches ( I hate cucumber sandwiches! the bread goes soggy!!)
  • You were ridiculously excited about the Royal Wedding but do not pay much attention any other time
  • You, like the Canadians, know that “honor” is actually spelt “honour."
  • You think that American football actually looks a lot more like rugby.
  • You know how to use HP sauce, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, and you do use them. All the time.
  •  You know 'Tea'   is a drink and a meal
  •  English people don't only drive on the left, they walk on the left.
  • You know what pub stands for, and where the nearest one to your house is.
  • You recognise Northern, Southern, Liverpool, Scottish, Welsh and Irish accents within the first 6 words of conversation.
Anyone know any others? Where are you from, how do you know your .....?

Saturday 20 October 2012

Party Outfit 1

Party Outfit 1


Hey everyone, I  have put together my wish list outfit for the work party. The dress is from ASOS it is a Lace Bodycon Dress, this is elegant and classy but also gives you freedom to dance the  night away. I choose the Faux Fur shrug from Debenhams to give me a little protection from the cold and also makes the outfit a bit more formal.I love these shoes from the Kardashian Kollection the are beautiful and add a bitt of glam. The cluch is from glity and glamorous and can fit everything a girl needs for a night out, comes in various colours but I chose the cream for this out fit, the bow makes this more formal but tthe lace gives a sexy feel. Last but not least the red bracelet this mayches in to the heel of the shoe and the lace on the dress but the red injects some colour and  fun into the mix.What do you think...





Wednesday 17 October 2012

Nicky Clarke DesiRED straighteners


Nicky Clarke DesiRED straighteners

I  have been brought up in a family where we could not afford the name brand products so had to find alternatives.  So when someone says straighteners what brand do you think of ……. GHD? Not me- I think Nicky Clarke DesiRED!!!

These straighters are a quarter of the price but twice the results! I find I get luscious glossy hair, I can get several styles from one appliance including curls due to the curved edges.

Reaching the highest ever temperature (230 degrees) this is high enough to straighten almost any hair without damaging it. The strengtheners are almost instantly ready to use which is great for on the go or last minute styling.





Rainbow Eyes palette by Front Cover


Rainbow Eyes palette by Front Cover


I love the Rainbow Eyes palette by Front Cover. This huge set, not only includes 25 massive eyeshadows but also has 2 pretty good double-sided brushes (really soft, one flat side for application, the other rounded for blending) and a bottle of their  Shadowline, which is a transparent liquid that turns any of the eyeshadows into liquid liner.


Eyeshadows are safely kept in a special tray I have none damaged or cracked. There are a large selection on colors and shades both matt and sparkly. This box is perfect for the advanced makeup user who knows there style and how to apply in different ways or the beginner as the box has several with inspiring looks and also instructions and tips on the inside cover. The shadows are rich in pigmentation, long-wearing which is great if you are like me and don’t have time for constant re=application throughout the day. 







Has anyone else tried this? Any thoughts on make up pallets to try?


Tuesday 16 October 2012

The proposal

The Perfect Moment


On Friday 30th December 2011, I was picked up from work by my partner Paul picked me up from work and told me we were going to on a drive. This did not make me suspicious as we did this often when we wanted some time together or because we love the sea just to go and enjoy the views.

So as we were driving along we were just talking about our lives at the moment, things we wanted to change and the future. I started noticing more signs for Weymouth, this is a special place for us as it is where we had our first date and where we decided to take the relationship further as Americans put it " to go steady".

We parked in one of the bays outside a hotel on the front and walked along the front, holding hands and watching the ocean and the beautiful night sky. We got to the end of the main path and decided to turn back as it was staring to get windy and cold, once we reached the jubilee clock Paul stopped me and before I had time to think he was down on one knee with a beautiful ring, telling me that he has never felt this way about anyone before and that he believes he has found his soul mate. He said lots of other things that I will leave between him and I, but those few words he was happy for me to share.

I cannot explain the feeling that came over me, its really cliche and I have heard it many times before and not believed it but it was like the world and time stood still, it was just him and me in the moment. You may wonder why he choose the clock, well the clock represents our past, our present and us wanting to spend our future together.

We then got in the car, called up our families and then announced our engagement on Facebook. The whole way home we were talking about our main ideas for the wedding and most importantly when.




Monday 15 October 2012

Agony Aunt

Lets talk about it


We have all heard the saying a problem shared is a problem halved, so lets start sharing. 
Here's your chance to get your worries off your chest. If you're having difficulties with relationships, family, work or any other aspect of your life, help is at hand. 

Tell me your problem, ask me your question or just go ahead and have a rant. I will help you the best I can and get through it together.

Sunday 14 October 2012

The Big Cleanse

The Big Cleanse

Step 1 It was going to take something pretty good to clean away the years of dirt and pollution that was trapped under my skin, so what did I choose- Boots Botanics Skin Brightening Deep Cleansing Gel.




According to the packet -Without thorough cleansing, pores can become clogged and congested. This deep cleaning gel washes away even the most stubborn make-up, impurities and pore clogging oil. Packed with hibiscus and horse chestnut extract, it will leave your skin balanced, purified and perfectly clean. perfect for oily skin.

I have combination skin the T one is oily but my cheeks are dry. As soon as this started foaming up I felt my skin start to tingle and clean out  my pores.  Once I washed it off I felt fresh and my skin felt light.

Step 2 So the pores are clear but  wide open to be clogged up again. Next up is Botanics 



According to the bottle
The cool liquid seems to sooth the skin while closing the pores and adding some much needed nutrients and sealing in the goodness. 

Step 3 The Final Stage Montagne Jeunesse Fudge Sauna Mask.


 
Acoording to the sachet Cleansing has never been so easy with our gorgeous Self Heating Vanilla Fudge Sauna. Absorb the sweet aroma, sit back and relax as the heavenly formula opens pores and deep cleanses, leaving your skin so clean almost glows.

 This mask smells so good I was very tempted to lick a little off, thankfully I didn't as I believe it would not only taste horrible but would spoil the experience.  This mask is self heating and gradually gets warmer, it opens the pores to provide a deep cleanse. My skin is left feeling refreshed and silky smooth better yet the fudge smell lingers long after you wash it off.





HAIR

Obviously I wash my hair but I have never looked into what my hair needs or what hair type I have.  Well  about 3 months ago my dear fiancée paid for me to have my hair cut as a surprise not only that he had asked them to do a hair consultation with me which basically means they examine my hair then tell me about my hair and what type of products would help me.

So it turns out I have thick hair, it  seems to have allot of split ends which have now been cut off :(  My hair is static and fluffy so naturally I have always wanted silky smooth hair so here is my effort to obtain it.

I was advised to use Redkin products ( which I still have half left after 3 months)


On the bottle Redken Extreme Shampoo Provides a rich, abundant lather that gently cleanses, restores strength and adds shine .
This stuff is GREAT! My hair feels clean and fresh and this lasts for 3-4 days, my hair is 75% less static even without straightening.  It also makes my hair shine and light bounces off my hair and looks great.

Starter Make Up Kit

COMING SOON ................

Saturday 13 October 2012

START




So this is me, excuse  the PJ's, dog and Fiancée on the sofa behind me.  I am not overly please about putting a post of me in my start  position but it will be motivation to change.

I am using my fitness pal to track my calories and how many calories my gym sessions burn. I will be going to the gym 5-7 days a week to do cardio and the weight machines.

I am aiming to loose 2 pounds a week this sounds easy but II have  PCOS which makes it hard for me to loose weight. We  will be weighing once a month on the scales in the Gym so we can make it as accurate as possible.

Thursday 11 October 2012

About me


Hi ,

My name is Grace, I am 30 and live in Kent, England UK.  I live with my Fiancée Paul and our 2 dogs and 3 tropical fish tanks full of fish!. I have decided start a blog to record my thoughts, feelings and experiences on my journey of life now and into the future,  I want to totally revamp my life and change  everything so out with the old in with the new!

I have never been the sort of person who thinks your appearance  is the be all and end all of life, however I have started my own beauty and make up business and it has given me so much confidence and has changed my life . I want to share that with others so they can feel the same way.

I want this to be a supportive community of friends where we can all relax and have fun.

Feel free to email me at

lifefrommyperspective1987@gmail.com

Grace xxx