Review 2015 No. 13 | Love, Tanya by Tanya Burr

All the way back in November 2015 the UK's most famous YouTuber Zoe Sugg released her debut novel Girl Online. The book became a bestseller, made history as the fastest selling debut novel, and sparked a trend of YouTube stars being offered lucrative book deals. If Zoe is Brighton's answer to Virginia Woolf then her Norwich counterpart, makeup and beauty guru Tanya Burr, is Norwich's answer to Zoe Sugg. Whilst Zoe is busy writing up the code-named Girl Online 2, her fellow YouTubers are equally successfully releasing their efforts. British YouTuber's Marcus Butler ('Hello Life!'), Carrie Hope Fletcher ('All I Know Now'), Louise Pentland ('Life With a Sprinkle of Glitter'), and Zoe Sugg's boyfriend Alfie Deyes ('The Pointless Book'), have all been offered deals and some sequels. American YouTubers, such as Joey Graceffa ('In Real Life'), have also been enveloped in the trend.

Tanya Burr is part of the Norwich YouTube dynasty that includes fiancé Jim Chapman and his sisters Sam and Nic (of Pixiwoo). Her light-hearted, positive beauty and lifestyle videos aimed at her 13-24-year-old target audience gave the 25-year-old the opportunity to have her own lifestyle and beauty book, Love, Tanya, published by Penguin Books on 29th January 2015. The book includes chapters on Baking & Recipes and Confidence & Happiness, as well as familiar themes Skincare Essentials and Make-up Essentials. This book is high-quality, and as she says meant to be a 'keep-sake', with glossy magazine style photographs throughout and sections for writing personal notes and lists.

To read my review of Girl Online by Zoe Sugg:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/review-2015-no-1-girl-online-by-zoe-sugg.html

Lifestyle Favourites | Winter 2015

Food: 

This winter I have been loving smoothies. Using a hand blender to make my own (or buying the occasional cute supermarket variety) has mean my breakfasts are now fruitful ('scuse the pun). I love this Innocent Pomegranates, Blueberries and Acai pure fruit smoothie, with its own cute knitted hat; the hats are hand-knitted and raise money for Age Concern and Age UK. Double win! So why not boost your antioxidant/vitamin intake for the day and put a smile on your face at the same time.

Beauty:

Winter can put a strain on everyone's skin, let alone people with sensitive or dry skin. With rapidly changing indoor/outdoor temperatures and dry, cold winds our skin can be left dehydrated and dull. Maintaining a good regular skincare routine is vital during winter. One area we often neglect is actually our hands. I've been loving this Nivea Anti-Dryness Smooth Nourishing Hand Cream with Macadamia Nut Oil and Hydra IQ. 

Drink:

Winter is the time for hot drinks. Drinking regularly, including cups of tea, is a way of boosting not only your nutrition but also your mental health, as tea is a proven stress-reliever. I have been trying out all types - Twinings Mango and Cinnamon, Twinings Earl Grey (occasionally, as it stains my teeth) - but have recently been trying Pukka Supreme Matcha Green, which is Fairtrade :)

Dental Care:

As some of you might know, I am at the end of fixed appliance dental brace treatment. Anyone who has had braces knows that they take a lot of maintenance and mean that you have to be extra vigilant with keeping your teeth clean. I use the Colgate Plax Antibacterial Mouthwash twice a day as it is alcohol free and so doesn't taste disgusting! 

To see some of my previous braces updates:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/honey-and-tooth-decay-hidden-perils-of.html

Entertainment:

February can be a quiet time on the social life front. Stuck between Christmas/winter celebrations and Easter/spring, a lot of people (including me) like a good hibernation. But that is no reason to be bored! Films, books and plays were made for winter! I have been getting back to 'reading' after a few months of slump and have been posting regular book reviews. Look out for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe and Hamlet posts soon!

My review of the 1979 Moonraker film:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/review-2015-film-no-1-moonraker.html

A review of the original book of The Jungle Book:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/review-2015-no-4-jungle-book-by-rudyard.html

Daydreams and Dinner Dates | Photo Vlog

Where are the days in January going? It seems only yesterday that New Year and Hogmanay wound their way round again, so here's a flashback to some of my Yuletide feasting and frivolities...

Check out my fashion, food, film and book posts on my Pinterest page:

https://www.pinterest.com/claremcm/

Vintage Spring Style: Natalie Wood

Welcome back to blog! I've been going through my wardrobe, making a few purchases and getting inspiration for the spring/summer fashion season from vintage photos. Classic film stars of the 20th century are extremely useful when taking a elegant, vintage style and updating it with a 2014 twist. 

Born Natalia Zacharenko in 1938 San Francisco, the film star died an untimely death in 1981, at the age of 43. Her death is still shrouded in mystery - she was found drowned in deep water - and her star is largely outshone by the likes of Marilyn and Audrey, but her style is timeless. The 5'2 actress has a lot to give in terms of outfit inspiration, so whether its Natalie or other stars of the 40s, 50s, 60s, get out the vintage clobber and work it.

Happy Weekend!

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: Simple Spotless Skin Anti-Blemish Moisturiser review

Hello there! Today is a Makeup Monday and as the weather is turning I thought it would be appropriate to review the moisturiser that I've been testing for a week. As August/September brings changeable hot/cold days, the temperature change can take a toll on our skin so it's vitally important to keep it nourished for autumn. I bought this Simple moisturiser as I needed one for when I wanted a lighter formula moisturiser for the morning. So far the effects, like the Simple face wash above, which I have reviewed previously, seem very good. My skin looks visibly better and I like the zinc and chamomile ingredients. I do however have dry skin and I'm still not sure that it's entirely right for me. Although there are times when even I need a light moisturiser, I think this might be too light. What do you think? The jury's still out for me.

Simple Spotless Skin Anti-Blemish Moisturiser can be found in Boots for £4.99 (or less during promotions)

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: Nivea and Simple Skincare Haul

Hello there on a wet Monday morning (the kind where you want to hide under your duvet)! Some of you might be thinking that I've been slacking on my posts and the truth is that I just haven't bought much recently. I try to blog 2-3 times a week when I really feel strongly about a subject or product and want to produce high quality, informative and entertaining content for you, so keep your eyes peeled because I'm not going anywhere!

Nivea Daily Essentials Rich Moisturising Day Cream (50ml) Dry and Sensitive Skin - I use this on hot and sunny days because its SPF 25 protects against sun damage and ageing, even the hidden kind. Great for sensitive skin, although I find it on the oily side.

Nivea Pure and Natural Regenerating Night Cream for All Skin Types - Perfect for all skin types. A rich texture that 'turns over' your skin at night.

Simple Spotless Skin Triple Action Face Wash - A really great face wash, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin, but definitively for all skin types.

Why not check out my previous blog post review:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/how-to-clear-hormonal-dry-skin-simple.html

Simple Spotless Skin Anti-Blemish Moisturiser - Use on days when you need a lighter formula moisturiser! I still need to test this one out more but may blog about it soon.

Carpe Diem xx

Thrifty Crafts How To: Make Bowls from Vinyl Records

In thrifty times a perfect craft that reuses old, unused materials can be a great way of 'filling your house for free'. Vinyl records can usually be found amongst family, friends or thrift and second-hand stalls, so why not turn them into a pretty and practical storage container in less than 10 minutes?

To melt a vinyl record into a bowl shape first heat an oven to 100-120 Celsius or 200-250 Faranheit. Then place a small glass mixing bowl (the kind you might make a cake mix in) on top of a baking tray. Put the record on top of the upturned bowl. Heat in the oven for 4-8 minutes, checking regularly. When out of the oven the vinyl should be floppy and fold into a flower shape over the bowl. 

Leave to cool for a minute to allow the bowl the set into shape before releasing the vinyl. Turn it upright and mold it into shape as it sets on the baking tray.

Alternatively, melt a vinyl by pouring boiling water from a kettle over it repeatedly. Be careful of the heat! This usually creates a shallower bowl.

Perfect for chip and dips, crisp bowls, a jewellery container or a catch-all for your front hall junk!

Carpe Diem xx

How To Clear Hormonal Dry Skin: Simple Spotless Skin Triple Action Face Wash Review

Most people with oily skin, breakouts or acne say that they would kill for dry skin as it's generally accepted that it's easier to manage. However, as I found out recently dry skin really does need treating and managing as much as oily skin. I have dry skin and as much as it is usually pretty spotless, come that time of the month the inevitable happens and my skin is a mess.

This gets even worse with stress, so last week I started testing Simple's Spotless Skin Triple Action Face Wash at night. In three days my skin was almost clear! I'm not sure I can claim a miracle, but alongside drinking more water, a face cloth and eating cleaner this face wash is a must have high street beauty find.

A translucent, white formula that foams when used with water creates a satisfying face wash and really clears breakouts. I personally love Simple's natural and basic ingredients as well as their philosophy. I would definately recommend anyone try this and even agree with the statement 'results from Day 1'!

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: No.7 Airbrush Away Primer and Triple Protection Tinted Moisturiser Review

A double makeup review day! Yay! I love testing products and particularly products from No.7. So here's what I thought of them (after testing for 3 days each).

No.7 Airbrush Away Primer:

A really nice non-silicone texture. Smooth and a nice light finish for my dry skin, especially good for those with oily skin who don't want to cake on their foundation over the top. Masks pores and is a multi-tasker and time saver! Helps foundation and face makeup to slip on and stay on for longer.

Not much bad to say about this product, apart from the fact that I can't afford to use tons of it regularly as it is on the premium side of the primers available.

Boots No.7 Airbrush Away Primer is available full-size from Boots for £19.50

No.7 Triple Protection Tinted Moisturiser:

Hypo-allergenic and with UVB SPF 15 and 5 star UVA triple sun protection, this tinted moisturiser is great from the go! I was slightly surprised to find a touch of foundation as I didn't see it advertised on the packaging but found that it was perfect for minimal summer no-makeup makeup. It slid on nicely but I found I needed more than a pea-sized amount to blend it out properly. Perfect for days when you don't have the time to spend a long time on a full face of makeup, which is most of the time at the moment for me, and don't want to blend with a brush for ages.

The only downside was slight oilyness and shine on the T-zone after 4 hours wear, but considering I have been testing it in the heat wave it has been amazing! A dewy finish that isn't too shiny. A great multi-purpose product again!

Boots No.7 Triple Protection Tinted Moisturiser is available full-size from Boots for £11.50

Swatches: Airbrush Away Primer (left), and Triple Protection Tinted Moisturiser (right)

Carpe Diem xx

Beauty Drawer: My Makeup Storage and Organisation, Benefit, Models Own and More

It's kind of a sin to admit as a beauty blogger that you don't own or use a ton of makeup, and even worse to admit that you don't want to, but I have to admit that my storage and organisation is even more important because of the small space I have to store it in. I keep a small but regular supply of products I generally know and like, as well as samples to try, so enjoy having a nose around my beauty drawer!

Striped Box, Accessorize: samples (Benefit 'That Gal')

Secrets Tin: 100ml travel bottles, travel makeup brushes (Real Techniques), Zinc tablets (Holland and Barrett)

White Wicker Basket (from set of 3), John Lewis: extra makeup sponges, spare toothpaste (Colgate)

Gaudi Mug, Barcelona: current lip products to use up (Rimmel Stay My Rose lipgloss)

Spare tissues (Kleenex Balsam travel tissues)

Yes, it does need a sort out, any ideas? How do you organise your products?

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: Models Own Make-Up Blending Sponges Review

So the Models Own blending sponges have been in my in-tray for a while, waiting to be tested. I've now tried them out four or five times and can say I'm almost fully converted from my makeup brush ways. I love the simplicity of applying BB Cream, so using a beauty blending sponge to apply foundation has been genius. Provides even coverage, using the wider end for larger areas such as cheeks and the small end for eyes, nose and hairline areas. They can even be used for bronzer and blusher, although I haven't been that adventurous yet. I'd definately recommend these, although they have an odd scent and the price is a bit steep for two sponges.

I'm definately keen to try more beauty blenders and they're especially useful for travelling when you might not be able to clean makeup off your hands so easily. Which ones have you tried?

Models Own Make-Up Blending Sponges, £8 for two, Boots

Carpe Diem xx

Alternative Makeup Collection Organisation and Storage Tips

Reuse and recycle vintage tins and containers, or new pots and jars with pretty designs on them, as holders for organising makeup brushes and tools. Aesthetic, practical and free! 

What more could you want?

Keep a collection of travel size makeup and beauty products and tools in a safe place. Build up a collection from freebies or products you just haven't gotten around to trying yet so that you have them ready to go. Use a clear plastic cosmetic bag or zip-lock sandwich bag so that you can put it in you suitcase when you're ready to pack for that special holiday.

As we all know, airlines are sticklers for liquid allowances now. So be prepared and keep clear plastic 100ml bottles and jars ready to decant shampoos, conditioners, shower gel and moisturisers into. I got mine, with the cosmetic bag, from Boots.

Vintage and retro tea cups and saucers can be a great solution to compartmentalizing your makeup and beauty storage on the cheap. Not only saving you the trouble of going out and buying a load of clear plastic containers, but also adding a touch of glamour to your collection.

Have fun and get creative!

Carpe Diem xx

Foodie Friday: Fruitarians for the Day (A Spitalfields Market Adventure)

There are amazing wholesale fresh fruit and veg markets all over Europe and the world. They are often hidden gems that masterfully supply produce to restaurants, market stalls and traders. I love an adventure and when I was invited to go the Spitalfields New Market in Leyton, East London, at 5am, I said yes. Secret melting pots of culture and languages, places like this are even better when you find them 'under your nose'.

We came back with plenty of mangoes, strawberries and cherries to start a health kick and become fruitarians for the day. Homemade foodie chutney, jam, ice cream and sorbet to come!

If you could exist on one fruit alone, which would it be?

Carpe Diem xx

Title Tuesday: My Current Favourite Beauty and Fashion Books

Whilst I enjoy a good read of a blog post or an online article, I'm pretty old school when it comes to books and I love a good paperback. The same goes for fashion and beauty books, which is why I love to have a few good reference books in my library to flick through for inspiration. These are my current faves, which are yours?

The Little Dictionary of Fashion, A Guide to Dress Sense for Every Woman (Christian Dior):

A 2008 Victoria and Albert Museum re-printing of Christian Dior's original 1954 'dictionary of fashion', this is a great handbag or coffee table book. Fun to flick through, with some useful and some outdated tips and tricks on how to dress well, this book perfect for any fashionista.

Compacts and Cosmetics, Beauty from Victorian Times to the Present Day (Madeleine Marsh):

From fashion to beauty, Madeleine Marsh's 'Compacts and Cosmetics' is a great guide to the history and evolution of beauty, makeup brands and vintage makeup collecting.

Check out my Title Tuesday post dedicated to Compacts and Cosmetics:

http://cupcakesandcosmeticsbyclare.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/back-to-bloggin-title-tuesday-compacts.html

Fashionista, A Century of Style Icons (Simone Werle):

Beautifully combining neat biographies and classic imagery, this book charts the classic fashionistas and starlets of the 20th century. All the great are there, Marilyn Monroe (of course!), Audrey Hepburn, alongside guides to the unique styles of more recent heroines such as Agness Deyn and Gwen Stefani.

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: What's In My Beauty Closet/Room Tour

Here are some snapshots from my room as it is now. Needless to say I have some work to do on my beauty closet and makeup and wardrobe organisation, but bare with me! Having moved out of my uni house, my hair and beauty stuff, clothes and books are now in one place for the first time in three years, and I feel like applying to be on 'I'm A Hoarder: Get Me Out of Here'. I am however a bit of an organisation freak and take tips from YouTuber Alejandra Costello, so this is a welcomed challenge. Watch This Space!

Happy Monday!

Carpe Diem xx

Makeup Monday: Happy Birthday Marilyn Monroe

To mark what would have been Norma Jeane Mortenson's 87th birthday (Saturday 1st June), this week's makeup Monday is dedicated to the Monroe beauty look.

Some of Marilyn's trademark beauty tricks included:

1) Use single false lashes on your outer lashes to accentuate their length and create a feline shape

2) Wash your face several times a day and moisturise regularly to maintain a dewy glow

3) Use white eyeliner on the inner lid to create a wide-eyed look

4) Use dark black eyeliner on the outer bottom eyelids to create the effect of a shadow from heavy lashes

I don't profess to look like Marilyn, she was doubtless a naturally beautiful woman, but I believe anyone can channel 1950s feminine chic. To achieve this look I used:

MaxFactor False Lash Effect Mascara

Vaseline Rosy Lips

Maybelline Effect Kajal Liner in Black

Revlon Really Red Lipstick

"I'm very definitely a woman and I enjoy it"

Carpe Diem xx

Where Have I Been?

There are many excuses I could try to give for not blogging regularly over the last 6 months or so, but the truth is there isn't one! I have just been preoccupied with a number of things; moving house, finishing my dissertation, completing coursework deadlines, and now I am studying for my degree finals.

Part of the reason I have not blogged much here is that my makeup routine is currently very paired down. With a busy study schedule, and quite a lot of stress, I have been focussing on a paired down, simple skincare routine to help me through the cold UK winter!

Some of the skincare products that I have been loving are:

La Roche-Posay Rosaliac Anti-Redness Moisturiser

Boots Time Delay Anti-Puffing Eye Roll-On

Boots Time Delay Replenishing Eye Cream

Boots Tea Tree Oil and Witch Hazel Anti-Blemish Stick 

Please bare with me over the next month or so. Watch out for lots more posts and exciting things to come!

Carpe diem xx

August Favourites: The Body Shop, John Frieda, and Organisation....

Technology: My new Sony Xperia Tipo! I finally replaced my old Sony Ericsson with a smart phone, after 4 years!

Reading: I got 'Girl With a Pearl Earring' (Tracy Chevalier) from the library, and am really enjoying it. It's classic historical fiction set in the 17th Century Dutch home of painter Vermeer.  

Skincare: I've been testing different moisturisers for dry/sensitive skin and really like this Vitamin E Moisture Lotion (SPF 15) by The Body Shop. It's a nice light moisture layer for the summer.

Haircare: Before blow-drying my hair I've been using John Frieda Frizz-Ease Heat Defeat protective styling spray. It leaves a nice glossy shine.

Homeware: I bought a 3-set of white wicker organiser baskets for my room and really like them. £20 from TVC.

Clothes: I've been loving the lace-trim jersey tank tops that I found in H&M for £7.99. I got one of navy blue and one in black. Abercrombie look for less!

Carpe diem xx