This is going to be my first ever book review, which actually feels quite bizarre since I've had a deep love for books since I was a little girl. I recently finished The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and I must say I fell in love with it. To give a short and non spoilered summary it is about a young girl from Nazi Germany who moves in with her adoptive parents and the story of her life. The great twist behind it is that the book is not narrated by her, but by death.

The book has made me both laugh out loud and had me close to tears, I especially enjoyed the way it was laid out every now and then there would be a small interjection be it a thought, a small poem or a word definition to think about. I found that they would never distract you from the story but they were very cleverly written in a way that added a certain depth to the story.

This book often made me stop and think about many things such as love and war, warning as you would probably expect from any book set in Nazi Germany this is not too happy a read. If you're looking for something quick, light and carefree then I'd say maybe save this book for another day. Nonetheless I would hugely recommend this book to anyone and everyone. Other than the occasional swear word, and of course the fact the main themes are war and death the book could be considered family suitable, my 13 year old sister has read it too.

LUSH Skincare Haul:

A while ago I bought an almost entirely new skincare routine from LUSH, as always the experience was amazing and all the lovely ladies in there had us chatting away about everything and anything while giving us the chance to try out products and see which would work best for us. My friend and I were in there for well over an hour and had amazing time. As well as some free samples and a free Butterball bath bomb that they really didn't have to give us I wanted to show you what else I added to my basket.

The Jasmine and Henna Fluff-Ease hair treatment is to be used before washing and was recommended to me because of my curly hair. As you can see I've made my way almost entirely through the giant tub already! I honestly don't think I've ever used a product that's made such a noticeable difference on my hair. Not only does it look much healthier and shinier but my curls look much more bouncy and defined too as well as it being much easier to manage and feeling much softer. I can definitely see myself going to pick up another tub of this very very soon. 

For evening cleansing I picked up the Ultrabland Cleanser, and I enjoy this one too but I'm not 100% sold on this one. It does leave my skin feeling nourished since it's packed full of almond oil and bees wax but I also find that I still wake up with mascara round my eyes and I'm left with an oily residue that leaves my skin feeling a little oily and heavy before bed.

In terms of the morning  I asked for something that was both soothing but would also help remove dead skin. The Angels on Bare Skin Face and Body Cleanser was added to my basket. It's a solid concoction of rose, lavender and camomile that needs to be mixed with water and rubbed over the face, the ingredients soothe the skin and even out skin tone (something that I have definitely noticed in my face) and the lavender gently removes any dead skin without your face feeling too harshly scrubbed. This is definitely a product I would recommend to a friend.

The Enzymion moisturiser I've been using both mornings and nights and has fast become my top moisturiser. It's extremely hydrating and refreshing since it has a citrus scent to it, but it sinks in so fast that other than the soothed feeling you could never tell you've just moisturised something I really enjoy as it means I can go straight in with my makeup if I ever need to. 

Last, but by no means least, is the Eau Roma Water. Again this is lavender based and so really soothes the skin. I love the feel of using this and genuinely look forward to using it before bed to soothe me. I prefer to spritz it over my face as it is so much more refreshing that way. Again this is a product I can see myself adding to my basket again very soon. 

As you can see I ended up picking up a lot of things but I honestly feel like my skin has been given an entirely new lease of life. Other than the cleanser I am head over heels with every product and my skin has never been happier. 

xxx

The Netflix Tag:

Netflix has essentially taken the world by storm, and if you follow me on Instagram then you'll certainly know that since University broke up for Summer then it has taken up the majority of my days. Now that I'm getting back in to regular blogging I thought what better than the Netflix Tag to be my next post:

1. What are your favourite series to watch on Netflix?

I binge watched Gossip Girl a few months ago and since finishing that I've also managed to got myself all caught up with Pretty Little Liars which aren't usually my kind of shows but I really enjoyed watching them. I'm also a huge fan of Orange is the New Black and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.

2. What are you currently watching on Netflix?

At the moment I've got quite into The Trip with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, I'm not entirely sure how I feel about it as a series yet but I still can't seem to stop clicking "next episode". I'm also rewatching the Doctor Who series at the moment.

3. If you could have any series, old or new on Netflix what would it be?

I would absolutely love to have The Ricky Gervais Show up on there, I'm a huge fan. I love the animation and the stuff that Karl Pilkington comes out with but I don't really have anyway to watch it.

4. What is one pet peeve about Netflix?

I don't like the fact that some programmes seem to just randomly stop at the end of a season, for example last year I got really into the show Gavin and Stacey but there are only the first two seasons up there.

5. Recommend one series/film for someone else to watch:

I would say that everyone should definitely watch Orange is the New Black but I don't know anyone who hasn't seen it so in addition to that I'd say Adventure Time is a great weirdly wonderful guilty pleasure (although hand in hand with my pet peeve there are only a few seasons up there, starting at season 2 weirdly enough!).

xxx

Olivia Burton Tan Big Dial Watch:

I've been a huge admirer of Olivia Burton's stunning watches for a very long time now. I follow both their Twitter and Instagram accounts and every time a photo pops up I find myself practically drooling over the beauty of their stunning pieces. I'm particularly a fan of big dial watches, and although I've previously mentioned that I'm not a huge fan of gold this watch has stood out to me for months.

The only thing putting me off was the £75 price tag, I know that's actually a really good price for a watch like this but at the end of the day I am only a 19 year old student so whether or not I could bring myself to spend so much on one thing was something I really debated about. In the end my heart won out over my head and as soon as payday came I was placing my order. 

I went for the Tan Big Dial Watch, which was always the one I checked was in stock first when online browsing. I think it's absolutely stunning and would suit near enough any outfit and can be worn year round. Let me know if you have any watches from the brand because I must admit that although I'm head over heels for this one and can't stop looking at my wrist when I wear it I do still like the look of some of their other pieces. 

xxx

10 Things I Learnt in my First Year of University:

Last month I finished my first year of University and it was hands down the best year of my life! I've really changed as a person and I like the person I am so much more now. With that in mind I've put together a list of all the things I've learnt so far. 

1. Drinking an entire bottle of vodka in half an hour is never a good idea (seriously don't do it)
2. A takeaway doesn't count if you eat it between the hours of 12-5 am
3. You won't have fun experiences unless you make yourself
4. The friends you make in freshers will probably not be the closest friends you make, don't become too cliquey straight away
5. Sometimes a nap is the only answer
6. Don't save all your deadlines until the last minute
7. Keep up with your reading throughout the year, it will make life much much easier come revision time
8. Do NOT wear heels on a night out. It's all fun and games for about half an hour but the rest of the night is just a world of pain!
9. The friends you make will be the best friends ever!
10. You won't miss other people as much as you think you will

An Apology:

Well well well, long time no see hey guys. I want to start with a huge apology I've been absent from my little corner of the internet for over a month now! I've missed you all so much and I've hugely missed blogging too. My head has been buzzing with ideas and although I have enjoyed my break to an extent I really do love my blog and I'm glad to be finally back. I want to do a big catch up video letting you all know what's been going on in my life so I wont go into too much detail just now. I just wanted to let you guys know that I'm still here and I fully intend to get right back into my regular blogging now I'm back!

I'll see you all again soon!
Lots of love,
Erika.
xxx

Smokey Gold FOTD:

I'd say this is about as grunge as my looks get. I really love the look on other people but I think I have a bit of a fear of looking dirty.  Lately I've been really enjoying smudging some black or grey shadow across the lash lines to add some depth. It's much less harsh than using an eyeliner but still gives you a smokey look.

Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation - True Ivory

Soap & Glory One Heck of a Blot

The Body Shop Honey Bronze - Medium

No7 Brow Pencil - Brown

Naked Palette (Half Baked & Creep)

Bourjois - 1 Seconde Volume

Urban Decay Lipstick - Native

Review: Zoeva Rose Gold Brushes:

I had been wanting to buy this set for so long and a month or so ago I finally convinced myself to buy them! I've waited a while to review them so I could get used to working with them and really give an honest review. 

First things first the packaging, now I know every beauty blogger under the sun has already raved about it so I'll try not to go on too much but isn't it pretty! The luxury set comes with a beautiful makeup bag and the brushes themselves are stunning. 

I'll go brush by brush...

106 Powder: This is a perfect mix between a big fluffy brush but a dense structured brush too, I've been using it to apply my face powder and it distributes the perfect amount of powder over the face without making you look cakey.

102 Silk Finish: This is much denser than the RealTechniques Buffing brush, it can be used to buff well though. I've found that it needs washing much more often than other buffing brushes I've used too. The brush really helps when you're doing a full coverage look.

110 Face Shape: This has been described as the perfect brush for cream contouring which sadly means I've not been able to try since I don't have any cream contour products but what contouring I have used it for has been great.

127 Luxe Sheer Cheek: I honestly thing the description is perfect for this one. This brush sweeps the perfect amount of product over the cheeks and seems to perfectly fit my face making it so easy to do my cheek makeup in just a few sweeps.

142 Concealer Buffer: Again this one needs washing  quite often, it's super dense and almost a little stumpy so you can really buff in your concealer in a way that will make sure it lasts all day.

227 Luxe Soft Definer: There's really not much to say about this one other than it's an almost perfect dupe for the MAC 217. If anything it's a little fluffier but other than that they're identical.

231 Luxe Petit Crease: I love using this one for a darker colour through the crease. The tapered tip lets me use the very tip to apply the colour and the rest of the brush to blend it out perfectly. It fits in the crease beautifully too.

317 Wing Liner: This brush creates the absolute perfect wing. It's a little longer than most slanted brushes which really helps it glide along the eye. The brush itself is very thin which allows you to have a really thin and defined line too. I'd say it's a drawer between this one and the 110 to be my favourite brushes of the set!

xxx

Currently Coveting (Festival Edition):

I'm sure the most of you know already but just in case you didn't I am ridiculously excited to tell you all that I'll be going to Reading Festival this year! I officially cannot wait, and though it may be months away yet a girl can dream can't she?

With this in mind I've put together some very pretty pieces that I'd love to be wearing this year, now I've already been told that by the end of the few days your clothes are destroyed anyway and you should chose comfort over fashion, but where's the fun in imagining that?!

BooHoo Katy Tassel Rucksack:

You're at a festival you need to carry some stuff with you, this looks nice and light weight and tassels are bang on trend when it comes to a festival. What more could you ask for I guess there's not really much else to say about this one but I really do like the look of it and when it comes to boohoo it's going to be a great price.

TopShop MOTO Vintage Ripped Mom Shorts:

These are a little more on the pricey side but they're so pretty! Hopefully it'll be nice and hot this Summer and I can add these to my shopping basket sometime soon. I've never been to a festival before but I can imagine nothing worse than being stuck in too hot trousers all day when all you really want to do is enjoy the music and be free to move around.

TopShop Floral Plastic Mac:

Let's face it when it comes to an English Summer you're going to need a rain mac! And why not make it a nice pretty one when it comes to  our English Summers you might as well have a nice one because you'll have to wear it a lot!

Accessorize Feather Statement Bando:

Flower crowns are a festival must-have! This is a nice big one with feathers too! What more could a girly girl ask for in life? I love the fact it's big and pink and fun, I'm becoming so much more confident lately and now I'd be more than happy to wear some thing like this.

Accessorize Simple Rose Flower Crown:

If you're not feeling too confident, or just don't want to be wearing something so out there then accessorize also has something a little smaller and more delicate for you. This one is super cute too, I think it would look really nice with wavy, second day hair.

Barry M Kohl Pencil in Kingfisher Blue:

For some reason I feel as though Summer and festivals are the one time of year you can get away with wearing bright blue eye liner, but at the same time you're likely to lose them in the back of a tent somewhere or something so a nice cheap one from the drugstore is just perfect.

TopShop Bindi & Temporary Tattoos: 

This is another thing that seems like a must for me when it comes to festivals. I really want to buy a big pack so that me and the girls I'm going with can have some fun with them. Again there's really not much more to say about them other than I think they'd be a bit of fun and a good idea.

Hunter Wellies:

Again, it's a British Summer you need wellies. Again, with the amount you'll need them in Summer you may as well treat yourself and get some nicer ones. I doubt very much I'll be buying these because they really are quite expensive but this is a wishlist after all!

Review: La Roche - Posay Effaclar Duo:

Moisturiser has never been anything I've been overwhelmed by, don't get me wrong I've certainly been impressed by one or two and even repurchased a couple but never have I had one that has left me genuinely looking forward to using it again the next day, until now that is.

 La Roche-Posay is a brand that I've heard of before from many a bloggers review for their wide range of skin care benefits. I heard wonderful things about the good they do to blemish prone skin which sadly before now I have never had to deal with. A few months a go now I picked up the Effaclar Duo on nothing more than a whim in Boots and I couldn't have been more pleased with the results.

The products is mainly focused on acne prone skin so it really does pack a punch when beating spots, but I haven't found it to be too harsh because of this. My skin isn't so bad to call it acne just a few spots here and there that leave bad red marks. The formula claims to be unclogging so no only does it help remove spot but prevents new ones breaking out too. It also contains an anti-irritant which helps remove redness, as well as boasting benzoyl peroxide amoung it's ingredients meaning it really does remove spots. You may think that all of this would really strip your skin but that is so far from the truth. I find that it sinks in super fast but still leaves your skin feeling well moisturized and light. Not like you never used a product in the first place.

I found that in the long run the constant use of this product has given me the confidence to bare my skin to the world much more often. I feel much more confident in my own skin now and I really would say it's thanks to this product.

Have you used this product before? Let me know your thought, good or bad!

xxx

The Phase: Musicals:

I've always been a big fan of musicals, I mean how can someone not be? They're fun (even if only ever so slightly in Les Miserables case), and take you on an emotional journey. I was raised on the likes of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Calamity Jane and of course Annie and Oliver. In my teen years I found Chicago, Burlesque, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Grease and Fame.

In terms of stage shows I've only ever seen Wicked and the Lion King, this is something I am desperate to change! Lately my obsession has been steadily increasing. I have soundtracks on all the time whilst I'm working and I have to admit part of me gets genuinely sad when I have to turn my music off when filming.

For my younger sisters birthday I'm going to be taking her to see a stage production of Calamity Jane but the next Broadway shows on my list are to actually see Les Miserables on stage as opposed to watching recordings and Miss Saigon! What about you guys though? Are there any shows you think I should see? Please let me know because I have a real love for them and want to expand my horizons.

Monthly Favourites March 2015 | EJEbeauty

It's Monthly Favourites time again! I really like filming these videos so I hop you like watching them! 

xxx

Announcing the new Beauty Bask Box & FREE giveaway for EJEbeauty readers:

A few days a go an email dropped in to my inbox giving me the opportunity to be the first to tell all of you lovely readers about an new up and coming beauty box! The BeautyBask offers a home spa experience. The boxes are yet to be officially launched but once they do they will be shipped worldwide.


The first box will be free, and not only this but you will also have the chance to gain free boxes by introducing the boxes to your friends! The first box will include:

- A face cleansing brush (similar to a clarisoinc)
- A Turban Towel
- A Candle
- Bath Salts
- A Natural Soap
- A Face Mask

Just to let you guys know I haven't been payed to talk about this box I just thought it would be something you guys would be interested in. I've turned down companies asking me to write similar posts to this and hopefully you guys trust my opinion!

Here's the BeautyBask website if you guys want to sign up for your free first box!

Fitness Update: March:

I'm not too sure about how I feel about this month fitness wise. My excersize has gone up and the healthy eating has improved without a doubt. I've been having a lot more water and green tea's too which I have to say isn't something I ever imagined myself enjoying drinking! My main issue this month has been going on night outs! I'm sure any of you who follow me on instagram will agree the level of drunk selfies with friends has definitely gone up. What with the amount of alcohol in my system and the four in the morning pizza runs that my stomach is hardly the most toned it's ever been!

One thing  I have been enjoying more and more is going through excersize videos. I think it's because the person you're watching is doing it with you and it's almost as if you're doing it with a friend. This so called "warm up" nearly killed me though! I really enjoyed it and I think in the future I'll be branching out into a bit more cardio!

This month I'm proud of the fact I kept going even through I've had so many nights out and the definition I'm beginning to see in my legs, next month I want to have less nights out and cut down th alcohol!

We'll see what happens next month let me know how you're doing if you're on a fitness journey?

xxx

Empties #1 | EJEbeauty

I've done plenty of empties blogposts over the years, but here's my first one in video form! 

xxx

DollyBowBow Purchases:

I'm sure you've all already heard of Kate from DollyBowBow whether through the stunning pieces on her website or through her super cute Youtube channel. I've been a huge fan of hers for years now we seem to have the exact same tastes and styles so not only is her online store DollyBowBow a dream come true when it comes to shopping for me but her channel has added up to many happy hours of viewing on my part.

The first thing I picked up was the Libby Flower Crown, I have to say that when it arrived I didn't realise just how large the flowers would be nonetheless I love it! I'm gaining confidence lately so the fact the flowers were quite large means I had to give myself the push needed to wear it! I love the colour I chose it's such a dainty and pretty pink. The band itself is wrapped in a brown twine like material that makes it look almost branch like and I love that about it! The flowers rest in leaves too, all of this helps blend the band together brilliantly as opposed to just some flowers stuck on a band which can be what you get from some stores.

The necklace I picked up was the Evie Statement one. It is just stunning! I've wanted a statement piece like this for years but I'm very fussy. I love everything about this piece including the chain which as you can see is very different from just a plain chain. All of the colours used throughout the necklace compliment each other perfectly, also I'm a huge fan of pastels so that's an added bonus! 

I hope you enjoyed this post, let me know if you did and if you've bought any jewellery lately.

xxx

My Sister Stole My Camera...

As I'm sure many of you know by now my sister has a huge thing about photography (something which comes in very handy when you're a blogger and need help with photos). A few days a go she was helping me out with some blogging and started snapping away through my bedroom window because she was bored while I tried to plan out how I wanted the photos and posts I was writing staged. I don't really have much to say about these photos I just think that she's extremely talented especially considering she's only 13 and hasn't ever even been taught how to work with cameras. She acts entirely on instinct and wherever we go she'll ask to borrow my camera once she seems something she thinks would look good. Lately nature is her thing to capture and I didn't want these ones to go to waste...

Soap & Glory One Heck of a Blot:

This powder wasn't actually supposed to be used for a few months yet since I was still working through my old one, however on a recent (drunken I might add) night out it fell out of my bag and smashed into tiny little pieces. The silver lining to that heartbreaking moment was that when I got home this little beauty was there waiting to be opened up.

The packaging is beautiful, retro just my style and the way they've thought it all through is so clever too. The mirror is the size of the whole lid which means you don't have to worry about carrying a mirror around with you too.  

I love the POWder print on the product itself too. This is something I really like about the brand as a whole they always add little thoughtful details which make you smile and enjoy using it just that little bit more. It comes with a puff too which may not be ideal for all but for taking it out during the day this is a dream come true. 

The powder itself is beautiful. I've fallen well and truly in love with it already! It's a super fine powder which has just the right consistency to be lightly dusted over your face with a brush or packed on a little thicker with a puff. It seems to last almost all day so far although it's not been too hot and sunny lately so I'll have to update you as to how it deals with heat. It mattes out the face but not in a way where you look dead it allows some dewiness to shine through, but at the same time it's not so light that you're left constantly reapplying through out the day. 

At £12 it's not dirt cheap but hardly pricey either. If you're looking for a new powder I'd recommend giving this a go. 

xxx

The Best Friend Tag! | EJEbeauty

She's back! My video with Charlotte seemed to go down so well, I thought why not get her in to do the best friend tag? We've wanted to do it for a while anyway so here it is! 

xxx

Review: Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Range:

I finished these products all at different times and so one by one they added themselves to my empties pile (video should be coming soon) until I saw the three of them together and thought why not write up a review of the range as a whole. I hope you enjoy the review and who knows it may lead to you enjoying the range yourself.

The first thing I'll say about the range overall is that if you want to buy it then you should do so now whilst it's getting warmer because the lime infused sugary sweet smell is a Summer's dream! 

As for each of the products themselves I'll start with the body wash. This claimed to be "fresh and foamy" and it certainly didn't disappoint. The formula created lots and lots of fresh almost cool feeling bubbles and the smell of limes really helped wake up the senses. This often left my skin feeling so smooth that I almost didn't feel the need to moisturize afterwards. The 500 ml was enough product to last me a good few months so you get great value for money too. All in all I'd say that as long as you're a fan of sweet citrus scents this is an absolute dream of a body wash.

An alternative to the wash was the scrub, this was sugar based so it could be quite harsh at times. The sugar was held together in what almost seemed like a gel consistency. I do quite like the fact it felt a little harsh though because every so often I like to really give my skin a hard scrub to remove any dead skin cells and get me blood circulating. I find it really helps you wake up, also this would be the perfect type of scrub to use if you're about to fake tan because there's no way any scaly bits would survive.

Last in the trio of goodies comes the Body Buttercream. This I found was different to the brands usual body butters as it was a little lighter (both in consistency and scent). It left my skin feeling very well moisturised but at the same time it sank in super quick so you got the best of both worlds really. The scent was the same throughout the range which I really liked. Personally I think it smells exactly like lime Starburst sweets but most people tell me it smells like Drumstick sweets (apologies if you're not a British reader and have no idea what these sweets are!).

All in all I really enjoyed the range, if you've used it before let me know what you thought and if you haven't would you like to?

xxx

Bedside Beauty #2:

I've put up one of these posts before and it seemed to go down very well. Since then however, almost all of the products that I like to keep at arms reach have changed. With that in mind why not take another look at my bedside beauty?

Garnier Summer Body:

I've been using this as a light tanning lotion lately and I really like it, it's very natural and gradual which means that streaking is not an issue. If you want to start trying out tans then I'd recommend this as a first product.

Right Guard Women Ultra Cool:

I much prefer antiperspirant's to deodorants, I don't really see the point in using a product designed only to cover up the smell of sweat instead of just one that stops you sweating. This one fro Right Guard works really well I find.

Soap & Glory Hand Dream Super Cream:

I find this to be a really good hand cream. It doesn't sink in as fast as the Hand Food does but nonetheless it does good to the hands and smells nice as do most Soap & Glory products. This products is perfect to apply just as I head out the door on the way to work or University.

Soap & Glory Heel Genius:

I've mentioned this one a million and one times and I'm sure you guys know by now my feet have little to no circulation so after I get in bed I like to use this foot cream. I find that it has a nice cooling effect when I've been on my feet all day but not so cooling that I end up with cold feet. It also really helps smooth out dry skin. 

Botanics Micellar 3 in 1 Ultra Calm:

I keep this one by my bed because there are many a night when I've gone through a busy day from an early rise for University to working the night shift at work where by the time I'm at home in bed I just can't bring myself to do a full cleanse and this I can do in bed with no water which is just so much easier. I will say one thing though do no get this in your eyes! It stings like nothing I've ever felt sting before! 

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel:

For the days when I'm not left near collapse by night time and I'm doing a proper cleanse I use this cleanser instead. I enjoy it so much it's been given a full review here so do go and give it a look.

Skinesis Overnight Facial:

This too has a full review so again here is the link if you want a indepth look at the product.

Laroche- Posay Effaclar Duo:

I think I've found my dream day cream in this product. It tackles both my blemishes and my dry skin, as well as evening out my skin tone in the long run of use. I really want to give this a full review in the near future so if that's something you'd be interested in then please do let me know. 

VO5 Nourish My Shine:

I've mentioned this one over on my Youtube a few times and this too has it's own review.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Serum Original:

If you have curly hair then you'll know that usually one serum is just not enough. This one I like to use when my hair is still wet to prevent it from drying into a frizzy disaster. It works very well and I'd say that with the amount of heat I've been using on it lately it must be part of the reason my hair is not covered in split ends at the moment.

The Body Shop Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray:

I know you may be bored of reading this by this point but here is the full review of this wonderful little spray. I've been using this so much more lately since I've been going on so many nights out with my friends lately. 

LUSH  Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter:

I'll admit I've been using this product less and less lately but I still keep it by my bedside for when my nails are in dire need of some moisture. It's a very oil based product so I only use it when I won't be touching anything for a long time because it takes a long while to sink in. I also use this on my heels, elbows and knees whenever I want to boost up their moisture levels too. 

The Body Shop Vitamin E Night Cream:

This is a lovely night cream. It's thick but does not sit uncomfortably on the skin and when I wake up my face doesn't feel weighed down with product instead it feels well moisturized and it has sunk in well. I'd say unless you have very oily skin this would work pretty well for all skin types.

Khiel's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avacado:

I've not been using this one for very long but I've fast fallen in love with it. It's an extremely thick formula which takes only a tiny amount of product to cover  both under eyes. It becomes almost gel like in the way it sits on the skin after use and leaves you waiting for a little while before you're able to put make up on but the wait is very much worth it. I've found not only that the condition of my under eyes is much better since I've been using it but also that my makeup sits so much better and lasts so much longer too.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm:

I've had this for so long and I'm still so close to the top of the tub. It lasts forever and you need the tiniest amount. I try to limit myself to before bed and first thing in the morning when it comes to lip balms so my lips don't become immune to the product and this one is so lovely. It's helped to heal my lips from many a dry spell and I'd recommend giving it a go if you fancy treating yourself soon.

New Look Haul! | EJEbeauty

Looks like I'm making a habit of this making videos thing doesn't it? I've really enjoyed it so far and here's my latest offering, hope you guys enjoy it! 

xxx

Thoughts on Feminism:

Happy International Women's Day everyone!

This is a post that I've wanted to write for a very long time and I thought what better day than today? I'm fully aware this may be a controversial one and I'd just like to stress that these are my opinions and if you disagree then you are more than entitled to do so.

First thing's first my understanding of what a Feminist is. To me a feminist is someone who strives for social, political, economic and cultural rights for everyone. to reiterate that's everyone, both men and women. A feminist to me is not someone who doesn't shave their legs, not a lesbian, not someone who wants to be a man nor a man hater (these are just some of the things I've been called).

I'd also like to address those who say feminism is not needed in these countries. We already have the vote and we already have access to education after all. These people are wrong in my opinion. Yes women in Western culture have  a lot more rights then we do in the underdeveloped world. And yes those countries where a girl has little to no access to education and is expected to be nothing more than a cooking, cleaning and baby making machine are in desperate need of a different type of feminism than we do. Although in this country it is proven that women still to this day do not have equal rights. On average we do not get paid the same for the same work, the same things are not expected of men than they are of women and this needs to change. My little sister came home from school the other day and told me that her Physical Education lessons consist of Yoga, Gymnastics and the new edition of cheer leading, whilst the boys at her school play football, and rugby. She told me he would love to play football but her teachers told her that only the boys play it. How on earth is this equal?

Don't get me wrong I love pink, and makeup and doing my hair and wearing dresses. These are my choices I don't like these things because I am a girl. I also love to go to Rugby matches, so what? There are many women out there could never see themselves in a dress or who love playing football and frankly why shouldn't they? There should be no difference in male and female activities in my eyes. If a man wants to wear makeup or doesn't like sports then there are some groups of people who would laugh and attack him for this calling him a girl. Now first off since when was being a "girl" a bad thing and secondly why does this make him a girl?

I don't really know what will come of this post if anything at all but I just wanted to add my thoughts to the mix. Whether you agree with me or not when I'd love to hear your comments. Does feminist include mens rights in your eyes as it does in mine? Let me know.

I'll leave you with this video that went around last year, I really enjoy it.

xxx

Currently Coveting #1:

I've been into a real mix of drugstore and high end lately and there's a few products that I just can't get out of my mind. Here's what's been topping my lust list lately...


Barry M Kohl Pencil in Navy Blue:

I booked my tickets to Reading Festival in February and since then I've been pinning festival hair, makeup and fashion on a festival devoted Pinterest board ever since. With that in mind what better time than a festival to try out some fun and bright looks with eyeliner? Also since it's a festival I'd prefer to go for a cheaper brand so they don't get lost!

Beauty UK Eyeshadow Palette in Earth Child:

This is actually an eye shadow palette I bought myself a very long time a go. In fact I think it was my first eye shadow palette and lately I've been missing it a lot. I loved the colours and the colour pay off too. This would be the perfect every day palette if you're just starting out in make up.

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers:

Are there any bloggers that haven't raved about these eyelash curlers? I really think I should give them a go soon especially since the ones I'm currently using are near breaking point. One of the only things that put me of is the fact they're twenty pounds, I've heard it's worth the splurge though so I'm sure I'll be picking them up soon.

Bobbi Brown Blush:

I'll be honest I'm really not too fussy about the colour I'd like lately, I'd really like to give these a go though because everyone I know who owns one says they're amazing blushers. I feel like one day a Bobbi Brown blush would make a nice little high end treat for myself. If you guys have any colour recommendations then please let me know!

Marc Jacobs - Daisy:

I've been obsessing over this perfume for years. Those borrowed spritz's from friends and sneaky sprays in shops have been keeping the obsession alive for years but I don't actually know how it's taken me so long to decide I really do need to pick it up! I'm going to finish off a few perfumes that I've almost finished up so I can justify buying a bottle.

Are there any products you've been lusting after lately?

xxx

February 2015 Monthly Favourites | EJEbeauty

A new video came up tonight. I know it's perhaps a little late to be putting up my favourites but better late than never. This month I've tried out a different format, I've mixed in my personal favourites too. Let me know if you like things that way because I'm interested to know.

xxx

My Fitness Update February:

It's been an up and down Month fitness wise I'll be honest. I've really kept up with my excersize though, which is something I'm proud of, although I do have to admit that there was a week or so mid-month that I was really dreading excersizing. I powered through though and now I'm seeing the benefits I'm beginning to fall back in love with it again. My routine hasn't changed much at all so I won't bother retyping all of that again, you can just check out last months fitness post for that one. I have been doing much more walking around this month too though. I really enjoy walking not only for excersizing but also for the fresh air that comes with it.

On the flip side to all those benefits however, I don't think I've had a month eating this much junk in a very long time. Dominoes orders, midnight chocolate raids and chocolate spread on toast for breakfast you name it I ate it. I'd say that with the increase in excersize and increase in junk food my body has stayed the same if not very subtly improved. The bad foods I've eaten seem to have had their impact on my skin instead.

All in all like I said an up and down month. This month I'm most proud of the definition I'm beginning to see in my arms and least proud of the bad food I've been eating. My goal for next month are to eat much less rubbish. I think I'm going to set myself a goal at the end of each month for the next one but instead of just focusing on the bad I also want to mention what I'm most proud of so I have the chance to be proud of my achievements.

xxx

The Body Shop 3 for 2 Offer:

Who can resist an offer when it's on? Me either! I recently picked up a few bits and pieces in The Body Shop and thought why not show you now before it's too late for you to take advantage of the offer too? 

First up is a product that was raved about by bloggers for almost the entirety of 2014. The All-In-One InstaBlur, this gel formula claims to smooth the skin out as well as balance out any redness or uneven skin tone. I've only used it a few times so far and I have to say I find the consistency a strange one, it takes some real work to get into the skin although once it's sunk into the skin it really does smooth everything out wonderfully. I'll keep using it and let you guys know how it works out in terms of evening out skin tone.

I also picked up a new blusher, this is not only my first powder blusher in a long time but also my first makeup product from The Body Shop. I'm very happy with this blusher in terms of the product itself, the consistency is really smooth and I like the fact it's a build-able product as opposed to it being too intense too soon. I'll definitely be picking up more colours but as for this one in particular (Flushed) is stunning! A warm toned pink with a very very subtle golden shimmer running through it. Don't be scared off by the shimmer it's very subtle and adds nothing but a glow to the face. 

Last but not least I picked up the Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil, this was another very popular product last year and I tried out the cleansing butter from the range which had a very popular review. I thought it was high time I gave the other one a go too. I'm yet to try it out since I'm still finishing off a few other cleansers at the moment but I'll be sure to let you know how it works out. 

I hope you enjoyed this post, also did you take advantage of the offer? Let me know what you picked up!

xxx

My First YSL Treats:

Ridiculously expensive I know but hey a girl needs a treat every now and again doesn't she? That's how I'm justifying it at least. These two little gems are my first ever YSL purchases and I have to say I couldn't have been happier with the choices I made. Who could resist the shiny, luxury packaging alone? For as long as I've been reading blogs and watching videos I've countlessly seen beauty's bloggers and vloggers being drawn in like magpie's and despite having only owned these products for about a week I can certainly see why. 

First up it had to be YSL's Touche Eclat in Luminous Radiance. This was the only shade available but it works well for me anyway. It's a very subtle highlight so I can see why people also use it as a highlighting concealer. The formula is fairly thick but it blends well. I'm really loving this product for more of a natural highlight lately. It gives your skin a healthy looking glow from within as opposed to sitting on top of your face. I can definitely see myself getting much more use out of this product in the next coming months.

I also picked up a Rouge Volumpte Shine in 31 "Fuchisa Tourbillon". It's a much lighter pink than is coming up on camera but it's a bright and stunning pink nonetheless. The formula is glossy and creamy but not sticky. It's also very long lasting I've worn this on nights out and long commuting days with no need to reapply throughout the day. Also, even though I've said it before I'll say it again the packaging is just stunning. I'm not usually a fan of gold but it really draws me in, it's got that heavy luxury feel to it and a satisfying click (you all know what I mean)! I definitely want to pick up another colour or two over the next few months, although maybe after my next paycheck....

All in all however, these products are something I'd definitely say is worth a little splurge if you want to treat yourself.

xxx