July Favourites

July has come and gone in the blink of an eye, but I still managed to love a few things here and there. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Nip + Fab Glycolic Cleansing Fix – Face Wash

This face wash doesn’t look it, but foams up something crazy. I have definitely noticed a difference in the overall texture of my skin since using this. Just be warned – it’s strong and can sting a bit, and a little goes a long way.

Toni & Guy Leave In Conditioner

I have taken to using a pea size (you REALLY don’t need more than that) amount of this and running it through the ends of my hair just after I’ve washed it. I really love how my hair feels after I use it!

Eau Thermale Eye Cream

I was on the hunt for a very rich eye cream to attempt to sort out my eye bags, and I reckon this one is up there with one of the best. It’s rich, thick and very moisturising, and I love using this before bed.

Sheridan Towels

My mum recently spoilt me with two sets of Sheridan bath towels and I adore them. There’s nothing quite like getting out of the shower and wrapping yourself up in a fresh towel that is huge enough to cover your entire body. Love this brand.

Dune – Frank Herbert

As a sci-fi/fantasy fiend, it’s taken me a stupidly long time to get my hands on this book and read it. I must admit, it took me a while (very Game of Thrones-esque: reads like a history textbook for the most part), but I really loved the story and bizarre nature of this story. I’ll definitely get on to reading the rest of the series, but for now, powering through this monster of a book is enough!

Jurlique Skin Brightening Essence

I apply this to my face every morning before my makeup, and I think it makes it last longer and look fresher. I have noticed an overall improvement in the glow and healthy nature of my skin since using it, and it smells so beautiful and calming.

Jurlique Chamomile-Rose Hydrating Essence

Still on the Jurlique wagon, I have also been really loving this essence. It’s a bit of a gimmick, I won’t lie to you (especially considering the price), but I just love the way this makes my skin feel! All you do is pop a couple of drops into a bowl of hot water and let a flannel or face cloth soak in the mixture for a bit before running it over your face. This opens your pores, smells amazing, and preps the skin for deeper cleaning, meaning it’s the perfect supplement to your exfoliation routine or to use before a face mask.

Kmart Coconut & Almond Treatment Oil – Hair Care

I love Kmart beauty products, and their hair care is no exception. I was devastated when  I learned they have discontinued their Argan Oil range in some stores as the smell is incredible, but this is a close second. Very warming and wintery, this oil gives your hair a gorgeous scent and also moisturises it for the day. For $4 a bottle, you really can’t go wrong with this stuff!

What did you love in July?

Zoe x

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Work Makeup Routine

I get up reasonably early for work, so I have needed to streamline my makeup routine. I can’t sit around, playing with eyeshadows and deciding whether I should wear blush (note to self: ALWAYS wear blush, you want to look alive), so I’ve come up with a fast and easy routine that makes me look fresh and put together, but without being too much for a 9 hour work day in front of a computer (sometimes longer)

One of my top tips is to have it all packed the night before so it’s ready to go in the morning. I switch around the products I use a few times a week, depending on the day, what I’m wearing etc, but will always have an entire face of makeup in my makeup bag for me to use in the morning. I’m telling you – this is a LIFESAVER.

I start with a clear primer, I’ve been using the ELF Acne fighting primer for a while now and it’s really good. Whatever you choose has to depend on your skin though, and how long you plan to wear the makeup for. My skin holds onto makeup reasonably well, so I can get away with a primer like this.

I then colour correct with NYX Colour Corrector, then use a beauty blender to buff no more than 4 half drops of NYX Total Control foundation on my face. I like to use concealer more than foundation, so I’ll then go under my eyes with something like the Smashbox BB concealer, and then around my nose and on discolourations with Essence Camouflage Concealer.

Cream products last longer, so I take the Be A Bombshell cream blush stick in Southern Belle on my cheeks, then set it all down with ELF HD Setting Powder (ELF needs to sponsor me real bad). Of course, you can always set your face with a setting spray to make it last longer, but I find for a regular day I’m okay with just powder.

To warm up my skin a bit, I use a bronzer like Hoola by Benefit, then highlight my high points with Smashbox Spotlight Highlighting Palette in Turn it On.

To define my face, I’ll run a bit of ABH Brow Wiz through my brows, then tightline my eyes with Chi Chi Eyeliner in Bronze Ambition. For long days, I’ll use a liquid eyeliner and so a small flick – my favorite for this is Kat Von D Tattoo Lockit Liner. I’ll top off with Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara.

I rarely wear lipstick to work as it just comes off, and liquid lipstick is too uncomfortable for the day to day. I’ll run a bit of lip liner around my lips (Rimmel make a great nude one) and just apply lip balm.

This takes me about 5 minutes total and I’m good to go!

 

Hope you enjoyed!

Zoe x

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June Favourites 2017

June was my birthday month, so there have been lots of new things I’ve been loving! However, to save double ups (as a VERY belated what I got for my birthday post is coming soon!) I thought I’d focus more on favourites from June that have nothing to do with my birthday. If you want to read about what I did, click here 🙂

Now, without further ado, let’s get into my June faves!

Watching the sun rise & set

I only recently started noticing the sun rising in the morning or setting at night, and have made an effort to take a pause in my day to watch it happen. I find it definitely puts in perspective all my worries and anxieties of the day that was or the day that’s coming, which helps me to be mindful, grateful and happy. When summer comes around, I’ll be sad to miss watching it come up.

Bath & Bodyworks Candle in Fresh Cut Lilacs

I bought this candle while on holiday for my 21st, as QLD is one of the only places in Australia with a Bath & Bodyworks for some reason. I was tossing up between this one and the honeysuckle candle, but in the end I had to choose this. It smells like a fresh summer garden, and makes me so happy.

NYX Dark Circle Concealer

On to makeup, I picked up this under eye correcter early in the month and have been using it every day to help correct my dark circles that just come with working full time, while also prepping the base for my concealer to stick to. For such a cheap and cheerful product, I’ve really enjoyed it!

NYX Total Control Drop Foundation

This foundation is super light and watery, but it covers like a dream. My favourite thing about it is that it actually comes in a colour fair enough for my skin without going pink. What a miracle! I definitely recommend this foundation, as it doesn’t go oily on me and lasts all day.

Smashbox Spotlight Highlighter Palette

I know everyone is talking about this, but it is absolutely beautiful. When my Becca Moonstone smashed for the 3rd time, I knew I had to find a replacement as there are some breaks that rubbing alcohol just can’t fix (RIP). This has 3 stunning shades in beautiful packaging. I love using the darker two as eyeshadows, so it’s really travel friendly as with this and a bronzer, you wouldn’t need to worry about bringing an eyeshadow palette with you!

Essence Camouflage Concealer

I bought this on a whim because it was so cheap. I love concealers, but I really didn’t expect it to work properly. But here I am, raving about it in my favourites. I really like it – the coverage isn’t the longest lasting or the fullest coverage, but I really enjoy how light it is and how thick the applicator is. There’s lots of product and it’s a great shade. Definitely recommend.

Miniso Tea Tree Pore Strips

These are so cheap – and 100% better than the Biore pore strips! They are really great at extracting and comfortable to wear. I also feel like they are better for your skin, but that could just be the placebo of using something green on my skin…

L’Oreal Pure Clay Mask

Speaking of green face stuff, this mask has been really nice in June. It definitely extracts and refines pores, but also reduces redness and calms dry skin and spots. It dries nice and tight so you definitely feel it working, which is always a bonus with a face mask.

Apple Cider Vinegar

I read about ACV as a skincare treatment a while ago, but since I’ve put it to the test, I can (almost) swear by it. I dilute it about 3:1 and pop it in a spray bottle to spritz over my face morning and night. Yeah, it doesn’t smell to great, but I let it dry completely then go on to the rest of my skincare routine, and that tends to mask the scent a bit. It’s definitely made my skin brighter and clearer.

Quay & LeSpecs Sunglasses

I recently got these Quay sunnies I’ve had my eye on for a long time (horray for TopShop sales in Australia) and these LeSpecs sunnies as a graduation gift from my best friend. I love both pairs! I’m a bit of a sunglasses hoarder, and one day might do a sunglasses collection post, but for now I’ve been rotating between these two and love how they transform any outfit.

Lavendaire

My YouTube love of the month has been lifestyle design channel Lavendaire. She is so calming, inspiring and beautiful, and has definitely helped me find some more peace in my life. My favourite video of hers is all about gratitude, and I really recommend taking 5 minutes out of your day to watch it.

Okja

I know, I know, everyone and their mum has been talking about this Netflix film, but it truly is amazing. I won’t give away any of the plot, but it’s incredibly shot, cleverly written and all round a beautiful film. 10/10, deserves all the ratings it’s getting.

Brave New World – Adolus Huxley

I read this for the first time in June, which is insane considering how much I love a good dystopian fiction novel. I loved it – I loved it even more than 1984 which is one of my favourite books of all time. If you like sci-fi utopia, read this now.

 

Zoe x

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May Favourites 2017

I know it was only a couple of weeks ago that I got around to posting my April favourites, but this month I’m on time, so we’re going to go with it haha.

I’ve actually been loving quite a few things in May and I can’t wait to share them with you. Let me know if you’ve been loving any of the same things!

Elf Face Powder

It can’t be a favourites on this blog without mentioning an Elf product it seems… I got this recently and I really like it! A finely milled powder in nice packaging, and it great with the sponge for touch ups on the go. I really have enjoyed this!

Argan Oil Body Lotion

Kmart in Australia has released this range of Argan, Coconut, Shea and Macadamia oil hair and body products, like hair oils and masks, shampoos, and lotions. I got this for $4 because I love the scent of the hair oil, but wasn’t expecting much from it. Boy, was I wrong! This is one of the best body lotions I’ve ever used, comparable to body shop, Bath & Body Works and Soap and Glory. It sinks in really quickly, is super moisturising and I am surprised at how amazing it is. Definitely check it out if you’re an Aussie!

The Balm Hot Mama Blush

I grabbed this blush on a whim, and didn’t think I’d like it that much – but WOW. This is a beautiful peachy blush with a golden sheen, very comparable to NARS orgasm but more pigmented in my opinion. It’s very shiny; you don’t need a highlighter with it. But I love how easy it is for that reason – at 6am when I’m doing my makeup for work I can’t be bothered with a heap of products and this just does it all!

The Handmaid’s Tale

I have been O B S E S S E D with this show and book right now. If you haven’t watched the show and you like dystopian fiction, download the first episode NOW. I’ve been reading the book too, which I’ve also really enjoyed!

Label.m Oat & Honey Hair Mask

I definitely think this mask has helped my hair out – whenever I use it my hair becomes so soft and silky. This mask smells great and simply works great, what more would you want?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

American Gods

I read Neil Gaiman’s American Gods at some point last year and loved it, but I have to admit I was skeptical when I heard they were making a show, even if it did include some fantastic actors. I stand corrected though, as this show is next level. Bryan Fuller is one of my favourite directors (he directed Hannibal) and he doesn’t disappoint here. Tip: read the book before the show, because it literally will make no sense otherwise, lol.

Nick Murphy

Good old Aussie singer Chet Faker has rebranded himself with his real name Nick Murphy and released an album, and I’ve been obsessed with it! Your Time is on repeat for me right now, it’s so chilled but sexy. Check it out here!

Zoe x

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March Favourites 2017

This month I have discovered a whole array of new things that I have come to love!

Mario Badesco Drying Lotion

I know everyone harps on about this, but it is completely warranted! I use this stuff to calm down spots, ones that have come up and ones that are brewing, and also to dry out those weird hormonal bumps on my chin. I absolutely can’t get over how much it has cleared up my skin, and it’s definitely worth a try!

IKEA Bed & Bedside Tables

My new TARVA bed and RAST bedside tables have been an obsession of mine. When I moved into this apartment I didn’t have a bedframe, and having one makes a huge difference to the overall ‘homey’ feel of it. The fairy lights are from kmart, the bedding from IKEA and the cushion was a gift. Stay tuned for more ~aesthetic~ photos in my apartment tour!

Elf Flawless Finish Foundation

I would consider this $10 foundation comparable to the NARS Sheer Glow. I’m not kidding. Their shade range for pale skin is amazing, with just the right amount of yellow to neutral out the pinkness in my fair complexion. It has great medium coverage, a lovely demi-matte finish and lasts quite well throughout the day. It also comes in a gorgeous glass bottle that makes the product look like NARS as well as perform like it!

Lip Lab Lipstick

For Christmas, my mum bought me a voucher to go to the Lip Lab in Paddington (Sydney), where you get to create your own lipstick and they make it in front of you. You get to personally create the colour, pick a formula, choose a scent, name it, insert additives like lip plumper and moisturiser – you can basically create your dream lipstick, and that’s exactly what I did. I’m in love with it!

Zoella Sweet Inspirations Body Mist & Double Creme Lotion

This range has recently become available in Target in Australia and I was super excited about it! I have to say, I still prefer the original scent but this is still a very nice sweet scent. I find it works really well as a base for other perfumes too, complementing them with vanilla and sweet almond. The bottle is also beautiful, making it perfect for display

Pop Sockets

I have been on the popsocket trend for a while now – so much so that I physically cannot hold my phone without it! If you haven’t tried popsockets, get on board! Phone grips, headphone winder and phone stand? Absolute win. I also recently picked up the phone holder that I have attached to my car dashboard, making my life SO much easier. I get my popsockets online and from Sportsgirl, my phone case is from Kmart.

Simple Oil Cleanser

My best friend got me onto this and I’m really digging it! It’s a lovely hydrating and gentle way to take your makeup off at the end of the day. I definitely need to cleanse afterwards, and if I’m wearing a particularly heavy face of makeup I tend to swipe a bit of micellar water over my skin too, but for the most part this is just fine at melting down the makeup. Its scent is lovely and it’s a super inexpensive product.

Elf Acne Fighting Primer

I picked this up at the same time as I got the Elf foundation, and I really like it! I can’t wait to grab their illuminating one. I don’t think it does a heap for my skin in terms of ‘blemish control’, but it’s a light, fresh and moisturising primer that definitely keeps my makeup looking nicer for longer. For the price, you really can’t go wrong. Also, can we just take a moment to appreciate the step up in Elf packaging?!

 

Morphe M504 Blending Brush

This blending brush I ordered off Beauty Bay and I’m obsessed with it. I’ve never used anything Morphe before, but the quality for the price is incredible. It picks up colour so well, blends it out nicely and doesn’t disrupt the pigmentation. I love it!

Zoe x

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My Haircare Routine

My hair used to be dry as fuck – and that was before I dyed it. It got to a point that I was at a hairdressers getting a trim and she was genuinely surprised at how long it was as “it is so dry, how is it still growing?”. Talk about embarrassing, I swear the old lady next to me was giggling through her dentures.

Anyway, I decided right then and there that I was going to a) dye it. Counter-intuitive, I know. I figured though that if it was already dry and unhealthy, bleach couldn’t make it much worse and I was always scared of making my hair unhealthy by dyeing it. And hey, I was right. In fact, because I was so scared of bleaching it, it really made me reevaluate how I looked after my hair.

I was using heat on it a couple of times a week, and washing it pretty regularly. Now – I’d be lucky to wash it twice a week, and it’s healthy and getting wavier, growing healthier and all round shining. You may not think it from the photos, but to me this is a HUGE improvement and I’m loving the way my hair is looking these days.

Let me tell you though, this is no ‘do-it-once’ type of situation. I have been trying to get my hair from fried to somewhat presentable for almost three months now, and it’s only recently I’ve started seeing an improvement. Patience is key here. So, without further rambling, let’s get into my step-by-step haircare routine.

1. Washing & Drying

I tend to use whatever is cheapest as my shampoo and conditioner. I know, I know, so bad for me, ruining the planet etc etc, but buying a $50 conditioner really isn’t in my budget right now. Forgive me, but I’d rather be fed. Just saying.

Anyway, I only wash my hair once a week, maybe twice if it’s getting all gross from the gym. I wash my scalp with shampoo, really massaging it in, and then use conditioner on my ends and leave it for a couple of minutes before rinsing. Then, I always follow with a mask. May seem a bit extreme, but I do wash my hair so rarely I can get away with it. I’ll use any mask, but leave it in for a solid five minutes and then rinse out with cold water.

2. In Between Washes

I brush my hair every morning and put in some dry shampoo if I feel like I need it. I then, usually morning and night, put an oil through my hair. I have become addicted to hair oil – it’s becoming concerning. I find the best one that doesn’t leave my hair looking greasy is the Argan Oil one, but really I’ll go depending on whatever I want to smell like that day/whatever is in arm’s reach at 5.30am.

*Batiste is good, don’t get me wrong. I like the coconut one. But I also think the Pantene and VO5 ones are just as good and A LOT cheaper. Just a tip.

Clockwise:
NUXE Huile Prodigieuse
Kmart Coconut Oil Conditioning Spray
Body Shop Shea beautifying oil
Kmart Argan Oil Treatment oil
Argan Oil

I also only use a tangle teaser (this is a kmart dupe) when I brush my hair, and try to only brush it when it’s dry.

Hope you learnt something!

Zoe x

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2016 Favourites

2016 was, for a lot of people, their worst year to date. For me however, it was quite the opposite. As cliche as it sounds, I felt like this was the year I started to figure out who I was and what I wanted my life to look like. I finished my first novel, moved house, travelled overseas twice and graduated university. So, I thought I’d share my favourite things from this year. I hope you enjoy!

Favourite Moment

In 2016, My favourite moment was definitely walking out of my uni for the last time and knowing I’d never have to go back. Despite the pressure of the job hunt now, I am so freaking happy that chapter of my life is over.

Favourite Trip

As you’d know if you keep up with this blog, I’ve had some amazing opportunities in terms of travel this past year, heading to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Hong Kong and bits and pieces around Australia. My favourite out of all of them would probably have to be Hong Kong though, as it was just so much fun jam-packed into a week in an incredible city. HK isn’t the cheapest place to visit, but I would go back in a heartbeat.

 

Favourite Makeup Product

As you’ve probably guessed if you’ve seen any of my makeup posts, I was obsessed with the Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette this year. I would happily ditch all my other eyeshadows for this one palette, as it just has everything and the quality is well worth the money.

Favourite Perfume

2016 for me was the year of YSL’s Black Opium, which I never thought I’d buy into the hype about. But, when my best friend gave me a bottle of it that she didn’t like on herself, I totally understood the excitement about it. It’s just such a sexy scent, I always feel confident when I wear it.

Favourite Clothing Item

My Adidas Stans have been my go-to shoe since I got them mid year, and honestly they are part of every outfit I wear. I usually pair them with some Topshop Jaime jeans, which have also been another favourite.

Favourite Music

2016 had some amazing music, and my favourites were RUFUS, Ari’s album and Zayn.

Favourite Accessories

I received both this necklace (it has the Gemini constellation on it) and this silver ring from my mum, and I never take them off. They were definitely staples of 2016.

Favourite Movie

I loved the movie ‘Nerve’! I really enjoyed the way it was shot and the storyline, and would definitely recommend seeing it if you haven’t.

Favourite TV Show

The Kettering Incident is an Australian sci-fi thriller tv show that premiered in 2016 and it was absolutely incredible. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched it, and I can’t wait for Season 2.

I couldn’t pick just one though – Westworld was an absolute masterpiece of TV and I was obsessed with it in 2016.

 

Favourite Book

This book about the Danish concept of ‘hygge’ really inspired me, and I really enjoyed my time reading it in 2016.

What did you love in 2016? I hope one of your favourites was reading my blog!

Zoe x

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