Wednesday 17 December 2014

What's your favourite Film and Book you've read 2014? #Currysfiresidefiction

As part of Curry's #Currysfiresidefiction and their competition to win some amazing kindle and Amazon prizes that can be seen here, I have been asked to write about my favourite book and film I've read and seen this year and I must admit it's been quite tough to pick just two from the amount I've read and seen!
Eventually I decided on one of each. My book of choice is The Further Adventures of An Idiot Abroad by Karl Pilkington, and for my film choice, The Wind Rises by Hayao Miyazaki.
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Both have been brilliant to fill up some spare time and I highly recommend you to read or watch them! Read on to see why I decided to pick these books.

Saturday 6 December 2014

Poundland Makeup; Make Up Gallery Pro Liquid Eyeliner and Pout It Out Nude 1 Review and Swatches!

So I took the plunge and bought some Poundland makeup. I've seen it on various media websites with mixed and good reviews and while I was in town I decided to pick some products that I would use in my everyday looks.
I picked up a few but today I decided to review a nude lip liner, which I know would be a tough test as I do not suit nude lips at all, as my lips are very red without product on, and the liquid liner because I'm a liquid liner hoarder.

Both were priced at £1 per item, and the same goes for the whole line of products.
Time Trialed: 3 weeks.


Wednesday 3 December 2014

TheBalm How 'Bout Them Apples Cheek and Lip Pallet Review!

This is something I've always wanted to purchase from TheBalm but didn't want to until it came about in the UK and I had a chance to get it thanks to Superdrug Beauty Studio at the Student Lock In in Cardiff.
The Pallet consists of 6 apple inspired shades which are a very creamy consistency that dry to a non sticky texture. All the shades in this pallet can be used on the lips and cheeks.


Sunday 30 November 2014

I'm back!

Hey everyone!
I decided to have a shirt hiatus from the blogging world. So what happened while I was away?
I decided to take a break after becoming very ill on and after my Birthday. I spent in London for my Birthday, then after my Birthday I was struck with the flu followed by a winter cold, which led me to miss lots of blogging opportunities and events. With my work and university work on top of this I decided to take a short break to clear my mind and get better, which has helped me a lot! This week I headed back to london with my University to visit some art galleries and museums, did a little shopping at my usual shops then headed back to wet and windy Wales.
Here is some of what has been going on in my life in pictures...





 I was lucky enough to see some amazing works in the Tate, Victoria and Albert Museum and even spotted some Moschino jewellery on show.



For my birthday I stayed in London, went shopping and did general tourist things such as visit Madame Tussauds.




At the moment in University I'm doing printing which is a lot of hard work, I'm creating woodcut pieces, hand painted screen prints and etching plates. We're creating these with the human body as a theme, it's time consuming but knowing its hand made is rewarding once you see the work finished.

Before I got ill, I was able to go to the Student Lock in in Cardiff, which was a lot of fun but very busy! I was invited to attend by Superdrug to see what they had to offer on the night and what kind of Christmas gifts they had in store.
Starting from this week I'll be blogging again about make up beauty and life in general. Apologies for the lack of posts everyone!

Thursday 9 October 2014

Lush Christmas 2014 Blogger event!

I was invited to attend Cardiff Lush's Christmas Blogger event to see what was instore for their Christmas line and have a chance to get some information about the new products.
The night didn't consist of demos and group activities like the last event as the products were mainly extensions of their current products, but it was still fun to have a relaxed night of shopping and seeing old and new faces.


New products in included new Bubble Bars, Bath Bombs, shower gels, body dusts, face masks, laced with shimmery glitters and gorgeous scents.

Monday 6 October 2014

Cardiff Student Lock In event 2014!

On Tuesday the 7th of October the Student Lock in event will return to Cardiff with some amazing discounts for Cardiff Students.



To sign up to the event and gain quick access to all the shops you'll need to pre-register on this link: Click!

Or you can alternatively turn up on the night with your student ID and sign up on the sign up stations.

The discounts on the night are amazing and some shops only do this once a year, the best discounts I have found so far include:

Boots: 10% off

Beauty Studio by Superdrug: 20% off

John Lewis are price matching and have up to 20% off, with Benefit Cosmetics showing off their latest products on the main walkway on the upper level of St Davids.

Urban outfitters are doing student night but I'm not sure what discount but I'm assuming between 10% - 20%

Fred Perry: 20% off and goodybags with every spend over £100

All Saints: 20% off

The Perfume Shop: 15% off

Quiz Clothing: 20% off full priced stock.

Select Fashion: 20% off.

Not all shops are doing discounts, so make sure you check to see what's on offer. Full list of discounts can be seen here: Click!

Sunday 5 October 2014

YSL Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll Kiss and Blush Swatches and Review!

Having recently purchased another colour for my Kiss and Blush collection I thought I'd do some swatches and review what colours I currently own and show this product to you all.


I currently own Shade 4 (Orange Fougueux) kiss and blush, Shade 3 (Rose Libre) Kiss and Blush and Shade 12 (Moca Carconne) Kiss and Blush, which is my newest addition. The formulas are designed to be used on the lips and cheeks and have a velvet smooth texture with a matte finish.

Price: £27

Time Trialed: 5/6 Months.



Monday 22 September 2014

YSL Yves Saint Laurent, Le Teint Encre De Peau, Fusion Ink Foundation Review!

So after receiving a sample and using it twice I thought I'd treat myself to the foundation when it was launched in Boots Cardiff. I  chose the colour BD40 which is slightly lighter than my skin tone, which is how I prefer my foundation to be, and managed to get £10 worth of points if I purchased another item which was silly to turn down.

I did like using the sample, however, upon using this foundation more I have mixed feelings on it. Why? Avoid if you have dry, flakey skin or are unable to exfoliate often.


Price: £30.50
Time Trialed: 3 weeks.

Sunday 21 September 2014

Up and Coming Event; Balance Me Shopping Event at Debenhams Cardiff!

Balance Me, a skincare company that works with your skin is holding an event courtesy of Marie Claire at Debenhams Cardiff on the 2nd of October, with 15% off and goody bags worth over £75! Everyone who attends will also have the chance to win a Balance Me hamper worth £150.

The evening will also be hosted by Co owner and director of the company, Sian Jones and the Balance Me team to showcase the products and give you a consultation to pick the correct products for your skin type.



Since 2005 Claire and Rebecca Hopkins have been creating Balance Me products which started with a super toning body oil and their products caught the eye of Topshop who ordered their products as VIP treats. Within a year they had won awards and sold in shops throughout the UK. With their Holistic background you know the products will be amazing quality and work with your skin while helping it maintain and balance the skins health.

Tickets to the event must be purchased before going to the event which is £10 at this link, which isn't redeemable but you do get 15% off and a goody bag with a chance to win more goodies. The event runs from 6-8pm on the 2nd of October 2014.

Monday 8 September 2014

I now have my own website! Sindyydoll.uk!

I have recently purchased my own website name! It's over at Sindyydoll.uk, where the posts will be the same as here but held under that url.
My email address has also changed and I can be contacted at press@sindyydoll.uk.
Happy reading!

Thursday 4 September 2014

Rimmel London UK Wonder'full Mascara review!

Infused with Argon Oil this mascara claims to protect and condition lashes while giving clump free length and volume with it's plastic short bristled brush. I purchased this mascara while on it's introductory offer in Boots Cardiff.

The packaging was the first thing I liked with this product as it does have a higher end feel to it. I'm finding this a lot lately with drug store brands that they are definitely upping their game with their packaging and look to become more luxury looking.


Price: £5.99: Now £7.99
Time Trialed: 3 weeks.

Monday 1 September 2014

NARS Taj Mahal Review!

Long overdue review on one of the most flattering blushers around, Taj Mahal by NARS. I can vividly remember purchasing this blusher and the first time I saw it. My instant reaction, "Who would even want an orange blusher?" and upon application was swiftly followed by "Oh, I guess that would be me." 
Highly pigmented, NARS blushers rarely disappoint, this blush is a vivid orange that turns slightly more red once applied to the skin, with a beautiful tone complimenting gold sheen.

Time trialled: Year and a half.
Price: £22.50

Lush Cardiff Summer Bloggers Event!

Last week I was lucky enough to go along and meet other bloggers in Cardiff and see some of Lush's newest products at their Summer Bloggers Event. I was able to see some of their old products as well as their new and gain some information on lush and their products.
There was also a demonstration and samples from Penarth born tea company, Waterloo Tea.


This event covered their new Suncare line, Self Preserving products and the re-release of their Gorilla Perfume line.

Wednesday 27 August 2014

Look Of The Day #4

Later on tonight I'll be attending the Lush Summer Blogger event in Cardiff so I thought I'd share my look with you all!
I've done a purple cut crease with strong brow, lip balm and orange blush.
Hair, Lightly curled with Tresemme Freeze Hold Spray.
Heres a run down of all products;


Primer; Smashbox Photo Finish Adjust  
Foundation; Rimmel Clean Finish Foundation
Powder; Stila Angel Light Shade E 
Brows; Guerlain Météorites Blossom Écrin Sourcils Eyebrow Kit
Eyeshadow Primer; Pixi Beauty 
Eyeshadows; Sleek Showstopper Pallet
Mascara; Too Faced Lash Injection
Eyeliner (Outside); Makeup Revolution 
Lips: Collection Mardi Gras Lip Balm 2
Eyeliner (Inside); Pixi Beauty
Blusher; Nars Taj Mahal

Outfit


Dress; New Look, Current Season, £14.99
Kimono; Urban Outfitters, Current Season, Sale, £24.99
Tights; Primark, £3.

I heart Makeup, Makeup Revolution Blushing Hearts Triple Baked Blusher Review!

While I was at the Superdrug Beauty Store opening last month I decided to pick up a new blusher from I heart Makeup. I usually go for pinks rather than bronze-y peach colours but decided to give this a go. I was pleasantly surprised! There are three types and I chose Peachy Keen.


Price: £4.99
Time trialed: Month and a half.

Swatch A/W 2014 Collection Press Preview!


I was lucky enough to be invited along to the Bloggers and Press preview of Swatch new Autumn Winter 2014 collection and learn more about Swatch's brand and products. I went along after I finished work to meet another two bloggers and staff from the Swatch shop. It was a very up close and personal event and I was able to get a great perspective of Swatch and the shop.
I currently own one Swatch Watch which is from a previous collection from Jeremy Scott so I was expecting to see some wonderful designs and a friendly service. I was not disappointed!

Thursday 14 August 2014

But I don't want to be pink toned! Why am I yellow toned? Questions and Comments MUAs get often #1.

So I've decided to create a new regular topic on my blog, which is questions or comments us Make Up Artist's get often and the most regular questions I face on a day to day basis with clients and customers.



Let's start with;

"Why do you think I am yellow toned? I want to be pink and I usually use pink toned foundations!"

Saturday 12 July 2014

Beauty Studio by Superdrug VIP bloggers and press launch. Review + Pictures!

I was invited to pop along to the VIP launch for the new Superdrug store in Cardiff last week where bloggers and press got a sneak peak at what the store had to offer. Being the only store like this in the UK I was very ecstatic when I had the invite!

I went along with fellow blogger SJ / Cowbiscuits to have a look around and hopefully do a little shopping!
We were greeted and given a brief rundown on what the store has to offer before we were let loose in the store. We were also given £25 on a gift card to treat ourselves to whatever we wanted!

Services offered inside ranged from HD brows, LED Gels, free nail painting when a Revlon varnish is purchased, to makeovers, perfume samples and even has it's own hair salon!


One thing I did note that I had full respect for was how every heading and description that I could see was bilingual. Diolch yn fawr, Superdrug! 

Saturday 28 June 2014

I'm moving house!

So today I shall be moving from one area of Cardiff to another.
I currently live in Roath, which is a popular student/residential area of Cardiff with lots of life and atmosphere. I will be moving to the Heath area of Cardiff which sadly has less character in my opinion but thankfully doesn't have as many students. Plus I can go back to my old Dr. (Which I hope is still there!) who was lovely compared to the one I see on City Road, who is a little patronizing. I will be living with 3 Professionals whilst I'll still be a part time student and working. 
So you may have noticed the lack of posts recently, this is due to my move. I have packed up all my makeup and have left the newest purchases at my parents house for safe keepings. These includes YSL Kiss and Blush, W7 pallets, Soap and Glory skincare some Ciate nail polishes and a whole lot of Yankee Candles! I have also started working in a local bar in town for extra money which is so fun, feels like I'm on a night out but I get to earn money for it!
So please bare with for the next week or two then expect a whole lot of blogging!

Wednesday 25 June 2014

Smashbox Santigold The Santigolden Age Collection Overview with Makeup Look!

I thought I'd take the time to write a post about Smashbox amazing new collaboration with Santigold called The Santigolden Age Collection for Summer 2014. It is inspired by Santigold's love for the Mayan calender and bold bright colours.

The collection consists of;
x1 Pack of double nail sticker strips £10
x2 Double ended eyeliners £16 each
x1 Lipstick ring £39
X2 Lipglosses in the new Be Legendary formula £15
x2 Eyeshadow pallets £25 each


I was excited about this collection when it was first revealed and fell in love with the green pallet, Earth As We Know It from the word go, the pigments are creamy smooth and easy to blend, and easy to turn into a lovely natural summer look with a green pop of colour.

Here are some of my favourites...

Lipglosses are in the new Be Legendary formula, no more sticky lips with this ultra smooth lightweight texture and high shine, and they even have an amazing colour pay off and staying power. I'm not one for lipglosses but when these were released I have not stopped wearing them!

For use in the water line and as a base for eyeshadows and more obviously to line the upper and lower lids the eyeliners are bold in colour, containing one gold colour teamed up with a blue, Azurite is never wrong / El Dorado and a cool toned minty green teamed with a bold yellow, Yellow Dwarf / Green Martian is a perfect way to add some colour to a look if you're just starting using eye makeup. Fool proof and easy to apply with it's creamy formula it can even be teamed up with the eyeliners!

Do pop in to your local Smashbox counter to see this collection before it's gone! It's made with such artistic care and the pigments are amazing, it's great if you're starting off experimenting with eye makeup or a collector for Limited Edition makeup lines. I work at the Cardiff Boots Queen Street branch so do come in for a demo of these fantastic products.

Here's my look using the Lipgloss, Hot Lava, mixed with the lipstick from the Ring, Still Kickin, Earth As We Know it Pallet on the eyes. Other makeup seen; 24 HR Eyeshadow Primer, Studio Skin in 1.2, Brow Tech Trio in Dark Brown,  Radiance Blush Rush, Onyx Eyeliner, and a Full Exposure mascara.


Views on this collection are my own and not those of Smashbox Cosmetics. This is not a sponsored post.

Tuesday 24 June 2014

Look of the day #3

Here's a look I did last week for a date with the boyfriend to bowling and a meal.
Quite natural but I decided to use Adore Delano (But toned down a little!) as inspiration to do a light cut crease with a bold liner with a bright pink lip.
I decided to use my new W7 In The Buff pallet and their Honey Queen Blush / Bronzer. Reviews for those coming up in the next few weeks!




I could have taken the crease much darker in depth but I decided not to as it wasn't a night time look I was aiming for!

Products used:
Primer: Smashbox original PhotoFinish.
Foundation: Smashbox Studio Fix in 1.2 
Blusher: W7 Honey Queen, NARS Gina
Eyes: W7 In The Buff pallet, Pixi Gel Liner Onyx, Pixi Large Lash Mascara Black NARS Larger Than Life Eyeliner in Via Vaneto
Eyebrows: Guerlain Ecrin Scourcils Eyebrow Kit
Lips: Benefit Lollitint with Smashbox Lipgloss Melondrama

Collection Mardi Gras Lip Balms Review!

I picked these up a week ago in Porthcawl Boots while they were on offer and they are perfect for the summer. I don't really like to wear matte lipsticks and heavy colours in the summer so something like this is perfect to pop on your lips to keep them hydrated and add some sheen to a natural look.

There are currently Limited Edition 3 flavours, all translucent despite their coloured look!
Orange, Strawberry and Green Apple, all scented to mimic their names.






Price: £1.99
Time trialed: 1 week.

Monday 26 May 2014

Guerlain Météorites Blossom Écrin Sourcils Eyebrow Kit Review + Swatches!

I cannot live without eyebrow products. Even if I pop to the shop I have to do my eyebrows above anything else. Looking back at old college pictures of my eyebrows has made me cautious about how they look at all times! So when it comes to eyebrow products I like to mix and match and see what is out there.

So being a big Guerlain fan, I bought their Ecrin Scourcils Eyebrow Kit in a heartbeat. 
It contains 4 shades, 3 brow and 1 highlight, with a small thin angled brush and brow brush. It also includes a large mirror, which is fantastic because it is not a small dainty mirror where you have to struggle to move your hand and still see.



Time trialed: 1 Month.
Price: £31.50

Friday 23 May 2014

Pixi Flawless Finishing Powder Review!

I think once or twice a month I will do a review of a Pixi by Petra / Pixi Beauty review. I literally own the majority of their collection, this is due to me being a makeup artist in their Cardiff counter in Boots from 2011 - 2012 when they sadly got discontinued, but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of working for such a loving brand. I loved their products and I still continue to purchase their makeup now! These reviews will be absolutely my own opinion, as these products are mostly repurchases of ones I had been given at my time at Pixi, or purchased after they were pulled from Boots directly from the Pixi store in Carnaby Street. 

Now on to the review!

Today I will be reviewing a product that is essential for the summer, which is a translucent powder. Great for topping up makeup, absorbing oil, finishing the makeup, and helping it stay on the skin longer. This finishing powder is a little special as it has some illuminating shimmery tones in it.

Time used: 3 years.
Price: £16.50


 This powder comes with a handy sponge in a secret compartment for top ups during the day.

Monday 19 May 2014

A Guide to; University

I feel almost a little contradicting doing this post considering I'll finish university when I'm half way to 50...

But I've just finished my first year in my new course in university, and having been in university 3 years in total I think it's necessary to write what I've learnt so far, then laugh at the fact I'm probably not adhering to anything I've written.

So this is my guide to university, from a girl who's done university twice.

Read on if you'd like to see my take on how to try and get it right!




Sunday 18 May 2014

Holographic Lipgloss? Bare Minerals Hypnotist Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss Review!

The problem with my mind is if I see any thing shiny, unusual and something impractical, I will buy it. Which is why as soon as I saw this I bought it. Which is also the problem working on a makeup counter and noticing things you need from other stalls.

I have never seen a lip gloss that looks like this so naturally it's why I had to have it.

Hypnotist is a holographic lip gloss is part of the Marvelous Moxie range, and is a limited edition shade.

Price: £16
Time trialed: 1 week.

I took it out with me when I went for a walk to Roath Park the other day to show you what it looks like in true daylight.


Monday 12 May 2014

Michael Kors Spring Summer s/s 2014 Makeup Review!

After being invited along to the Lauder blogger's event I was sent some Michael Kors makeup to test and review for my blog. This has taken a little longer to review as I have never tried out Kors products and I wanted to get a fuller view of how their products last on the skin, and I'm also at the end of my 1st year Art university course so I have been extremely busy!

I was randomly sent a bronzer, two nail polishes, a lipstick, fragrance, and lipgloss to try!

Each collection is split into three, for a day time look, mid day, and evening. I was sent a selection of each collection!

Time trialed = 1 Month

Tuesday 15 April 2014

Look of the day #2

Thought I would share my make up for today. I went for a meal with my boyfriend so it was nothing too special, but I am in love with this lipstick colour! It's Grenadine by Smashbox. I do believe its a discontinued colour but you may still be able to get it at your local counter which is where I bought mine.
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Primer: Smashbox original PhotoFinish.
Foundation: Smashbox Studio Fix in 1.2 and Benefit Hello Flawless Honey under the eyes.
Powder: Benefit cosmetics Hello Flawless powder Honey.
Blush: Benefit cosmetics Hervana
Eyeliner: Rimmel London Spark It Up 600 Black Gold
Eyeshadow: Primer Pixi By Petra, Pop Beauty Vanity Violet in the crease and Smashbox Quick Take trio using only the colour Ambient all on the lid.
Mascara: Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill
Eyebrows: Illamasqua brow cake Gaze
Lips: Smashbox Grenadine
Let me know what some of your favourite lipsticks are!

Friday 11 April 2014

Sho Gallery Cardiff!

Last month I discovered an art and gallery shop just off Albany Road on Inverness Place in Cardiff that has been there quite a few years so I felt really ignorant that I hadn't noticed it before!
I was drawn to the mix of art there which included original art and prints, art materials and collectibles. It spreads over two floors and contains art from artists from around Britain.
After much deliberation over 3 wonderful pieces of art I finally decided on a piece by Katy Christianson which is a limited edition screen print, the piece is untitled.
 Image

If you're in the area I advise you to pop into the gallery, you might see something you'll like! There were many unusual pieces there, it was hard to choose. The atmosphere was friendly and I was ease wandering around looking at the shop and gallery!

http://www.thesho.co.uk/

Bblogger event for Smashbox Ojon and DKNY Fragrances !


 This month I was invited to view the newest products from Smashbox Cosmetics, Michael Kors, Ojon, DKNY and Marni fragrances. It was exciting to see what all the brands had to offer this season.  
There were two other bloggers invited along to the session I attended, Cowbiscuits and Aliceinalookingglass, so you should check their blogs out too!

 



Sporty, Sexy and Glam collections from Michael Kors.


Thursday 3 April 2014

LGFB + Benefit Blogger event, with Gimmie Brow and Big Easy!

Last week I decided to go along to the Benefit Blogger event which was also an event to raise money for the Look Good Feel Better charity, which deals with people who are going through cancer treatments and suffering with the visible side effects. It teaches them how to apply cosmetics, skincare, anything that can make them look good and feel better.
Their main focus was the brows and their newest brow product, Gimmie Brow, which is a micro fiber gel product which thickens the brows appearance. It was also a sneak peak session to see their newest product, Big Easy, which is described as being bigger than a BB.

Tuesday 1 April 2014

Nails Inc master class, Swansea, April 4th & 5th 2014.

Nails Inc has a master class of their products on Friday the 4th of April and Saturday 5th of April!

There are two days or times you could attend, which is between 3pm-6pm on the 4/4/14, and 9am-12pm on 5/4/14.

You can learn about what polishes and treatment products are suitable for your nails, their Hero products, as well as a workshop learning how to apply the perfect polish, and the secret to their specially designed brush.
Sadly I won't be able to attend, but I hope you can take advantage of this class!

Be sure to grab a Caviar top coat or nail treatment with your £10 redeemable deposit!
Click the picture to see all information regarding this event.



Thursday 27 March 2014

Mini Review Barry M Silk Nail Effects Polish - SKNP1 Blossom !

Just a quick mention and mini review of Barry M's new nail paint from the Silk collection.
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I bought it as part of the 3 for 2 in Boots not long ago and gave it a try 2 weeks ago, and I'm impressed! It applied very smoothly with one coat and dried semi matte, almost frosted in texture, which I was not expecting. It almost dries to a soft textured matte rather than quite rubbery as some brands matte polishes are. Best part is it stayed on for around 3 days without chipping too badly and I kept it on for a week and a half and at the end of that time it still looked great and that's without using a top coat or base coat! I'll definitely be investing in more when they release more colours!

There are currently 6 colours in the collection, priced at £3.99.

Tuesday 25 March 2014

Giorgio Armani Blogger Event!

I was invited to come along to the Blogger event held in Cardiff Debenhams to see how to get an Armani Glow, and have a look and test some of Armani's products out at their pop up (Soon to be static) counter.



We were given a short demo on how to achieve a smokey eye look with a bold red lip using some of Armani's top selling products and must haves from their collection.