Tuesday, 31 December 2013

DEAR NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS,

✎ Tuesday, 31 December 2013
3 Comments

Dear News Year Resolutions,

Each year you come around so quickly and I get caught in a mind-numbing trance trying to figure out ways to improve myself and my life with the beginning of the New Year. I rattle my brain, review my life and realize there are so many things I’d like to achieve in the year. I spend hours on hours complying lists, crossing out things and then finally narrowing it down to one ultimate goal for the New Year.

You are described in every way a new start, beginning, chance, and opportunity. You are put on a pedestal and we all are expected to present promises to you. 
I have a confession to make - that scares the fucking shit out of me. Each year I am given another chance to make this pact - this pinky promise with you that I WILL achieve this new resolution. Whilst I am in the confession booth I might as well tell you this too: you are the one I’m most dishonest with in my life. But you probably already knew that didn’t you? I can just imagine you smirking at me right now. Yes every year you beat me. I cringe with the lead up to the New Year knowing that no matter what I say to you it will not suffice.

Why? I have a theory: it’s your fault. Yes it’s you! You linger around my thoughts daily; constantly, as if you’re trying to make me break. And every year I do.

So this year you will not get that satisfaction (I can only imagine your cackle as you make another person break, it’s all a game isn’t it?) I’m not going to say anything at all in terms of resolutions. That’ll teach you.

Of course with the New Year I am some general goals in mind of things I want to try to achieve but I will not share them - you will only put copious amounts of pressure on me until I break and eat the fucking Tim Tam.

So this is it for another year. I hope next year we can work things out. I’d like to say ‘it’s not you it’s me’ but no - it is you. Work on yourself for next year and maybe then we will reassess where we are at and try again? 

Yours in love and hate,


Monday, 30 December 2013

PURE HAIRCARE REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

✎ Monday, 30 December 2013
43 Comments
What better way to get back into blogging than to review some beautiful haircare products and launch a giveaway with three winners. I hope everyone has been enjoying time with their families and having a bit of a break. I know that I have been! 
The haircare I'll be reviewing today is from the brand Pure which is a organic, Australian owned + made company which produce quality products that are free from any nasties like sulphates, fragrances, silicones and parabens. All the products are made from 100% organic extracts and nothing is tested on animals. 
These three products came in a beautiful boxed set that retails for $53.90 but has an overall value of $86.85. The set itself is amazing value and I think that if you're in the market for new haircare than checking out the value sets is the best place to start because usually you get a extra product or two at an extremely reduced cost. This particular set includes three products a shampoo, conditioner and an oil. All of which are a great size for the price. 

Pure Divine Bath & Rinse 
One of the best things about this duo is the fact that although they aren't 1L bottles they come with a handy pump! These are both aimed at protecting your colour and restoring life back into hair. I haven't been using them enough to make the bold statement that these are stopping my blonde locks from fading but I can say that they add really add shine to the hair. Despite being sulphate free I find that the shampoo lathers really well which I really appreciate because I enjoy that sensation of having a lather through my hair. The shampoo didn't leave my hair feeling stripped or course which is a problem I do run into quite a bit with other shampoos. I would even go as far to say that; if I didn't have tangled hair I wouldn't need to use a conditioner. The conditioner did help detangle my hair which is a make or break quality for me. It still is quite light so I think I would follow up with an oil out of the shower for more moisturise. 

Oil of Marrakesh 
Best. Smelling. Oil. Ever. I don't know what it is but this smells heavenly!! I really enjoy the consistency of this oil it's not super thin or too thick so it's easy to warm between the hands and run it through the hair without the worry of it being too much. I really love the bottle however this product is let down but the fact it doesn't come with a pump! The oil itself is fantastic and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable hair oil to use but I was a little disappointed that no pump was included. 

Overall I'm really excited to try more products from Pure! These have all really impressed me and I think the quality exceeds the affordable price. If you're in the market for products that are more organic but still are effective I'd have a look at the Pure range.

GIVEAWAY 
-giveaway will run for a week ending on 6/1/14 
-Australia only 
-there will be three winners each receiving the above Pure pack valued at over $85 


For more information on Pure check out their website here 


*products provided for consideration - honesty as always! 


Thursday, 19 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 19: MY HAIRCARE ROUTINE

✎ Thursday, 19 December 2013
17 Comments
I've come to realise that I've never done a post about my haircare routine here on More Than Adored! The past few months my haircare routine has been fairly consistent and I have been really impressed with the way my hair is looking and feeling. I'm about to switch out products in order to trial some new ranges so I thought there is no better time than now to post about what I have been using and really enjoying before I switch it all up.
These products are my base products - the ones I use everyday or when I'm washing my hair. These do not include what products I use to style my hair or air dry my hair. If you're interested in seeing a post on my favourite styling products do let me know! 
Now for bit of background on my hair. I am blonde which means my hair requires alot of upkeep. Not necessarily because it's incredibly damaged but because it is dry and maintaining the colour is important to me so that I don't have to go back to the hair dresser constantly. I like to inject moisture to keep my hair looking healthy and also use products that will maintain my ashy blonde colour.

IN THE SHOWER
This looks a bit ridiculous but once I explain it won't seem that crazy! 
The first set, in the enormous bottles, is probably my holy grail product. If you're blonde than you need this. The Natural Look Silver Screen Ice Blonde Shampoo + Conditioner is incredible at toning your hair at home. It's very pigmented and strong so I only use this every two weeks. It's important to leave both the shampoo and conditioner on for an extended amount of time because they both have toning properties in them. This set can dry out my hair but I don't mind that because I'm only using them every fortnight and I'm wanting a good toning result not moisture from them. I wouldn't recommend these for daily use. 

Next up I like to have a moisturising set and Im loving the Argania Moisture Repair Shampoo + Conditioner*. I'm using this in alternation with the next Matrix set so every second wash I will use this to boost the moisture and make sure that my hair is getting nourished from root to tip. I find that these are incredibly moisturising but aren't overly heavy which is a vital element for me because I have naturally wavy hair therefore anything that is too heavy weighs down my curls and my hair doesn't air dry as nicely. These smell fantastic and overall are now a great staple in my routine.

Lastly, these Matrix Total Results Blonde Care Shampoo + Conditioner* have snuck into my routine and stayed there for the past few months. As I said I'm alternating these with the moisture repair and really enjoying the mix. I'm finding that, instead of using my intense Natural Look set for toning once a week I'm able to prolong to every two weeks and just use these in my routine. These are in no way a strong toning set but I like that I can use these knowing it is tailored to my hair and helping keep my colour looking vibrant. These are pretty moisturising compared to other shampoo and conditioners I've tried for blonde hair and I'm be repurchasing these without a doubt. 

ON DAMP HAIR
A long time favourite has been the Macadamia Luxurious Oil Treatment which is a thicker consitency than most other oils I've tried. If you have fine hair I wouldn't recommend this because I think it could potentially weigh down your hair. This smells great and really nourishes the hair, I usually apply one full pump from ear down and that's enough for my medium length hair. I'm on the fence about repurchasing this because it can be easy to over do it but I'm thoroughly enjoying using it while I have it and I have seen great results from incorporating this oil into my routine in the past year.

A more recent discovery has been the Argania Hair Oil 'Light' this is designed for people with fine hair and has changed the way I see the Macadamia Oil. Previously to trying this I didn't realise the huge difference between the regular oils and the light verisons. I assumed that the regular ones were going to give me the most moisture into my hair so I've always purchased them however I was sooo wrong! The only difference between the two is that this one is a thinner consistency making it easier to apply throughout the hair and not weighing down the hair at all. This is the reason I probably won't repurchase the Macadamia one because I get the same benefits but I don't have to worry about applying too much. My only gripe is that this bottle doesn't have a pump! 

The last two products are little extra steps I personally feel I need to take but I think that most people could probably stop after applying an oil. Because I am blonde this Matrix Blonde Care Sheer Mist* is a complete staple for me now it's summer. As some of you may know there are lots of different environmental factors that can strip blonde hair very easily. This is a spritz I spray all over my hair and it helps protect my hair from those factors like UV rays and chlorine. I think this is an aboustle must, especially in summer, if you're blonde because it'll save help your colour last immensely! 

The last product I use, in conjunction with an oil, is the Eleven Australia Miracle Hair Treatment*. I usually do one part this; one part of any oil, mix it together then apply it too my hair. I don't do this every time I wash my hair but when I do I just love the way my hair looks. This has 11 different benefits that it claims to do but the main ones I see is: less frizz, added shine, detangles and added softness. I think if you're not blonde but still want to have some protection from environmental factors like the mist offers this one is a great one to try because it will protect your colour as well. 

I hope that this post helped any of you out that were maybe looking for some products to use on your hair. If you have any recommendations for a good mask and detangling spray I would love love love to hear them. I haven't found any worth mentioning in this post so I'm on the hunt! 

What are your staple hair products?

Natural Look Shampoo + Conditioner more info and stockist here
Argania Moisture Repair Shampoo + Conditioner RRP $19.95 each here
Matrix Shampoo + Conditioner + Mist more info and stockist here
Macadamia Luxurious Oil Treatment RRP $34.95 here
Argania Hair Oil 'Light' RRP $34.99 here
Eleven Australia Miracle Hair Treatment $24.95 here


*products provided for consideration - honesty as always! 


Wednesday, 18 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 18: ELES SPRING COLLECTION

✎ Wednesday, 18 December 2013
11 Comments
Over a month ago I was sent a beautiful press release from the brand ELES Cosmetics full of the latest launches for Spring. This post is longggg over due but with the trialling of the products and then being sick with shingles it seems it's already summer and I'm only posting this now. Nether less these products are beautiful and I wanted to share them with you. 
The collection includes products that are able to be used to create a beautiful smokey eye with purple hues and a softer nude lip. I can tell you know I'm in love with the whole purple collection and think that's it's just gorgeous at this time of year. You can still play up that intense smokey look without it being intense with super rich shades.
Micro Bubble Lipstick in Micro Nude $39.50 here
This nude is just the right amount of brown and peach mixed together so your lips don't look too washed out but it still gives you a full pout. I applied one layer and then worked into the lips with my finger. Because my lips are naturally pigmented it lessens the colour but evens out my lips. The formulation is really beautiful and creamy so it's perfect during the hotter weather.

Quad Shadow in Debutante Quad $99 here
This palette is aboustely amazing and is probably my favourite quad I've ever owned. All shades are full of pigment and stunning. Even the satin pearl shade provides a really fantastic highlight which surprised me because sometimes highlight shades in palettes are so chalky! All the shades compliment each other really well and I don't have to reach for another palette to complete an eye look. I used all shades on my eyes in the look I created and I LOVE the outcome. I've worn this look a couple of times and each time I just adore it more. The shimmery taupe shade is perfect all over the lid and probably makes the quad for me.
Browblender in Soft Taupe $39.50 here
I was super excited about this because I haven't used a brow pencil since having awful experiences with super cheap ones. This one is slightly too warm for me to dramatically fill in my brows but if I only press lightly then I'm able to achieve a natural brow for everyday. If I want something a little more dramatic then I simply add a more ashy shadow over the top to balance it out. The consistency of the pencil is super creamy so you don't need a heavy hand at all so it is worth the extra money.

Dimensional Cake Liner in Plum Crazy $39 here
I love that this comes with a matte colour as well as a beautiful shimmer so that you can pick and choose dependent on your eye make up. I used the matte shade to lightly define my lash lines in the today's look and I think it's a good break from black eyeliner whilst still adding definition. I think these do work best wet and come of so much more intense when you do use a wet brush to apply so I'd recommend that kind of application if you're after a really pigmented look. For day-to-day I just use a dry brush and I find the colour pay off is enough because I'm usually not after something intense for during the day.
Overall I'm really impressed with the high quality products that ELES has released and the eyeshadow quad is easily my favourite out of the collection. All of the shadows are incredible and it would make such a lovely gift for someone or even put it on your own gift wish list ;)

What do you think of the look I created?


*products provided for consideration - honesty as always! 



Tuesday, 17 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 17: TANNING AT HOME #3 - TANNING MOUSSES

✎ Tuesday, 17 December 2013
8 Comments
I know - this series is taking me forever but I have been trialling tans I promise! So if you're unfamiliar I decided to start a 'Tanning At Home' series a few months ago to help those people who were like I was 6 months - unsure and lost! I now aboustely love tanning at home and I think that I've figured out what products work and what don't so if you want to catch up on the other posts I've done they are here:
Today's edition is all about mousses which I would say are probably the most popular style of self tan thanks to St Tropez. I've been trialling these four and I'll go through each one and tell you my thoughts. Tanning mousses may seem intimidating but they're really easy to use! You just need to ensure you're using a tanning mitt for application because it makes the world of difference trust me! 
Bondi Sands Tanning Foam in Light/Medium + Dark* 
I've just repurchased both of these because I enjoyed the press samples I was sent so much. Bondi Sands is easily my favourite tanning brand at the moment so there is no surprise that I really love these! Both are green based which means you get that gorgeous olive tan over a orange tinged colour and they both are so easy to apply. I've never had a problem with streaks or patchy tans with either of these. The coconut scent is probably the best part about this tan because it means you can apply in the morning, let it develop during the day and not worry about stinking like fake tan. These both have a 1 hour developing time which is fantastic - especially if you don't like sleeping in tanning products like me. The Light/Medium shade is the one I would recommend for beginners or pale gals because it gives you a bit of colour but it's not so dark that everyone is like 'oooo she's fake tanned' whereas the dark does give you a really lovely deep shade (not orange though!). Even if you start with the Light/Medium you can always apply everyday to build up the colour until it reaches a shade you're happy with. Also it's worth mentioning that these both fade really nicely and can last up to 6 days, or more if you reapply. Overall I cannot fault either of these tanners and I cannot recommend them enough!
Available from Priceline RRP $19.99 each here
St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse 
The famous tanning mousse that everyone raves about or wants to try. I wasn't going to include this because it's a sample but I've actually gotten two full body applications out of this 50mL size and still have enough for at least another half body so I think I've tried it enough to review it. Honestly, I didn't like it. The application is really easy, with a tanning mitt, and although I wasn't impressed with having to wait 4 hours (or 6 for a deeper colour) I waited it out and then rinsed it off. I was initially really impressed with the colour it wasn't orange. The next day I noticed all my legs streaky/patchy and my knees were all blotchy. I thought I hadn't left it long enough to develop properly so I went onto to give it a second chance and applied it with more caution and this time waiting over 6 hours - it still happened. For the price that this tanning mousse is full size, in Australia it's over $50, I don't think this is worth the money at all! It doesn't have an offensive smell, is easy to apply and gives a nice olive colour but for it to come off patchy and not be perfect both times I think that there other alternatives to this that are more affordable and do a better job.
Available from Priceline fullsize RRP $59.99 here

Le Tan Fast Tan Instant Foaming Mousse in Bronze*
This is the most affordable of the bunch and probably the most accessible. This does have a bit of a 'self tan' scent so I wouldn't recommend letting it develop during the day but once rinsed off it doesn't smell at all. This has a six hour developing time which isn't suited for me because I am disorganised however I know that doesn't bother everyone. The actual product is not green based which did have me worried about what kind of shade would come after applying but it actually does provide a nice bronzed look, perhaps because this is the lighter of shades available. For a night out this is great, not too over the top and easy to apply however I noticed the few times I've used it that after about two showers it does become splotchy and requires exfoliating to remove the product. This is a really cheap and cheerful product for a night out or special occasion I do think it's worth giving a go but I still think I'd prefer the fading out quality of Bondi Sands over this. 
Available from Priceline RRP $13.99 here

Do let me know your thoughts on the St.Tropez in the comments and if you have any requests of products you'd like to see a full review leave them too :)

What's your favourite tanning mousse to use?



*products provided for consideration - honesty as always! 

Monday, 16 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 16: SICK SAVIOURS

✎ Monday, 16 December 2013
10 Comments
As some of you may know I have been out of action with the shingles for the past two weeks and I'm finally all better! I thought a few products deserved a little mention from helping me through the sickness and making life a little easier. I think these products are also great for hangovers (to many Christmas parties anyone?) or for when you just need a little pick me up on dull days.
The first products I want to talk about is the one that has probably been the most used and abused over the past two weeks. The My New Skin in Olive and Lemon Myrtle* has been incredible for applying on my sores to help soothe and moisturise the areas. This is a multi-purpose balm that is on the thicker more oily side but I've enjoyed that because it has provided long-lasting nourishment where I've needed it. This products is all natural and derived from herbs which is an aspect I really love and appreciate. 

I'm the type of person that when I'm sick alllll skincare ceases and I just lay in bed feeling sorry for myself. I tried to at least cleanse and the Happy Skincare Cloud 9 Deep Cleansing Balm has been really great! I picked this up because Kat from Kitsch Snitch has been loving it and we have fairly similar skin types so I always really enjoy her recommendations - this didn't disappoint. It's really quick to use, you just apply directly to dry skin and then wipe off with a wet muslin cloth or with your toner. I tend to wipe off with a muslin cloth and it leaves my skin feelings fresh and almost moisturised? 

Also the Kosmea Hydrating Rosewater Mist* has been a complete godsend especially on the hotter days. It's a refreshing facial spritz that sprays a fine mist over the skin and it's amazing at perking up the skin. I have been carrying this from room to room whilst I've been lounging around and will definitely be buying the full size once this runs out! 
As I said I usually don't do much in terms of skincare when I'm sick but I found the medication was REALLY drying out my skin! For my face the Kosmea Radiance 24/7 Youth Boost* was perfect because it's moisturising but still absorbs quickly, I prefer this over rosehip oil because of the thinner consistency and quicker absorption time. It's been a quick step to do without worrying about it taking a while to sink in or staining pillow cases. 

My lips have been so horribly chapped that I've pulled out the Lush Mint Julips Lip Scrub again because in desperate times this really performs. I have been using it morning and night before slathering my lips with a thick ointment and it's been really helping the healing process along. 

 Lastly, Nuxe Reve de Miel hand cream has been great for the dryness on my hands and around the cuticles. Usually I don't have to worry about hand care but I had to do something because they were bad. This is really fab, it absorbs fast and has a really lovely light floral scent to it. 

What products do you turn to when you're sick?




*products provided for consideration - honesty as always! 

Sunday, 15 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 15: STOCKING STOCKERS #3 + UPDATE

✎ Sunday, 15 December 2013
8 Comments
I hope everyone is having a lovely weekend! I'm finally feeling better yay! I thought I'd put together another summary of my posts this week for Blogmas. It's going so fast - I can't believe it's only just over a week until Christmas. I hope everyone is organised, I just finished my Christmas shopping today :) 
 Day 4: Trash Talk 
Day 5: Gifts For Him 

I have spoken about these masks more in depth here but to sum it up they're amazing and would be a perfect gift for any beauty lover. These are fab kept in the fridge on a hot day to cool off and soothe the skin. The pack is great value and comes packaged all pretty :) 

Tangle Teezers are a great gift for any girl at any age. There are so many different versions like the cute flowerpot for younger girls or the original for older women. This brush will change your life so I think it'd be a muchly appreciated gift.  

Another cute gift is any sort of case for iphones, ipods or ipads dependent on what the person has. This one is off Asos and is something a little out of the ordinary. Another great place for unique covers is Etsy! 

Decor is always lovely to give and receive. This Wire Heart is adorable! Customise it by adding a few photos of you and the person you're giving it too. I know I would love that! 

If you have a friend who adores big hair this set is perfect. It contains two mini Bumble and Bumble products which are pretty expensive in Australia full size so they aren't products many would buy for themselves. A great way to try before you buy! 

I couldn't resist including this super cute shower cap! It's just the best thing I've ever seen and something fun to give along a few other goodies :) 


Have you finished your Christmas shopping?


Saturday, 14 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 14: THE CHRISTMAS TAG

✎ Saturday, 14 December 2013
6 Comments
I was tagged by a few lovely ladies (Grace, Kate and Talia) to do this tag and I couldn't help but do it! I'm a huge Christmas nut so this tag just gets me even more excited about the season. 
What’s your favourite holiday movie?
I adore Elf at this time of year. The Holiday is another one I do like but it's not like one I watch every year. I do happen to watch Elf every year and love it every time! 

What’s your favourite Christmas colour?
I don't have a favourite colour? This year it's my first Christmas out of home and my boyfriend and I have done a blue and silver theme I'm digging but I can't say it's like my favourite colours ever. I love all Christmas decorations! 

Do you open your presents Christmas Eve or morning?
Early Christmas day. I have a big family consisting of four young siblings which always makes fun to get up early and open our presents together :) 

What’s your favourite winter fragrance?
I don't stick to seasonal fragrances and it's summer here! I'm been particularly fond of Marc Jacobs 'Daisy and 'Honey' lately but I wore both of them in winter - I just wear whatever I'm digging. 

Favourite Christmas smell?
I don't think I have any particular scent I look forward to smelling at this time of year. I like apple/cinnamon candles and pepperminty things as well. 

What’s your favourite holiday drink?
I don’t think I have one again. I'm really enjoying trying out different flavoured ciders lately? I'm not a huge coffee drinker so I don't have a Starbucks favourite or anything like that lol.

Candy cane or gingerbread men?
Candy Canes! I can't say I'm a huge fan of gingerbread (don't hate me). 

Favourite Christmas song?
I like that song by Mariah and anything Michael Buble does too! 

Have you ever made a snowman?
It's summer in Australia at Christmas time so not at Christmas, no. But I have been to the snow during snow season and we made a snowman every time whilst we were there. It was always fun because I went with school so it was with all my friends. 

What is most important to you about the holidays?
I have a young family, I'm the second eldest, so it's so lovely spending time with my younger siblings and having Santa. Seeing them all excited and all that is the best part. On the actual Christmas day it's just so fun catching up with extended family I don't see often and eating lots of food! 

I'm tagging every single one of you! So if you have done this tag or are going to make sure you leave a link for me to read it.

I hope you're all having a lovely weekend! 




Friday, 13 December 2013

BLOGMAS DAY 13: NEW FROM THE BODY SHOP

✎ Friday, 13 December 2013
16 Comments
I thought I'd let you all know about four sets The Body Shop have just released. You all have heard me bang on and on about the Seaweed line since the very first blog post I published. You get it I love it. If you've ever been tempted by my ravings than this set would be a perfect way to dip your toes into the Seaweed line. I thought I'd do a bit of a round up of all the sets and let you know what's included in each. 

This range is for the oily/combination skin type as will help rebalance your skin whilst controlling oils. All of the products included in this bag I can 100% confidently recommend as they're all amazing and ones I use daily. The set includes:
Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash 60mL
Seaweed Clarifying Toner 60mL
Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream 15mL
Seaweed Clarifying Night Treatment 15mL
Reusable bag

Aimed at sensitive skin types that are prone to redness, itchy skin or allergies this line is a soothing one. This set includes:
Aloe Calming Facial Cleanser 60mL
Aloe Calming Toner 60mL
Aloe Soothing Day Cream 15mL
Aloe Soothing Night Cream 15mL
Reusable bag 

Aimed at the acne prone oily skin type, this range is aimed to help improve the healing process of acne as well as control shine and oils. I have used a small amount of these products in the past and really enjoyed the few I've tried. This set includes:
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash 60mL
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Toner 60mL
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Lotion 15mL
Tea Tree Oil 10mL
Reusable bag 

This is one of the most popular ranges from The Body Shop as it's incredible gentle, nourishing and hydrating on the skin. This set includes:
Vitamin E Cream Cleanser 60mL
Vitamin E Hydrating Toner 60mL
Vitamin E Moisture Cream 15mL
Vitamin E Night Cream 15mL
Reusable bag 

Would love to hear your thoughts on these new releases from TBS. I'm thinking of picking up the Tea Tree set and possibly the Vitamin E one as well. I think they're such great value and an easy way to try out a few of the products before you commit to products. Also if you have experience with a particular range from TBS leave it below for others to read :)

Available from The Body Shop here