tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78609210264315487182024-03-14T05:37:16.961-07:00Lifestyle, Fashion & Make-upAnonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-86455925466569042952013-06-18T03:22:00.003-07:002013-06-18T03:22:23.246-07:00My Favourite Movie Picks<span style="font-family: inherit;">There comes a time in one's life when they get exhausted of being asked to recommend good movies & not being able to come up with appropriate suggestions right on the spot. So here I have listed some of my top favourites, in accordance with my top 3 genres of choice. I have not included Fantasy/Sci-Fi as a genre, as the list would be interminable (and I would do a horrible job at trying to stay unbiased)...</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <u>Thriller/Suspense</u>:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">a)Perfume - an appropriate rendition of the novel</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">b) The Prestige - a Hugh Jackman favourite of mine</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">c) Shutter Island - Leonardo DiCaprio nails it</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">d) Possession - contains Drama-esque motifs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">e) The Lake House - elements of Drama & Fantasy, but keeps one on their toes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">f) The Ghost (also known as 'The Ghost Writer) - Ewan McGregor is simply outstanding</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. <u>Horror/Fantasy</u> (please, keep in mind this is my favourite genre):</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">a) The Unborn - concentration camps' horror in modern Days</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">b) Dead Silence - marionettes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">c) Pan's Labyrinth - set in the past, foreign</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">d) Hills Have Eyes - a classic of the early 2000's</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">e) Lady in the Water - purely Fantasy, but falls into a niche of its own almost</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">f) Angel-A - Fantasy, French-drama</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">g) Silence of the Lambs (or any of the Hannibal Lecter ones) - a true classic</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">h) It - Stephen King, 'nuff said</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <u>Homoerotic Subtext</u> (keeping it clean, of course):</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">a) Milk - Sean Penn & James Franco - brilliant</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">b) Weekend - British, very contemporary</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">c) The Mulligans </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">d) My Own Private Idaho - yet another 'late-bloomer' story, but very well-chosen cast, in my view</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">e) Shelter - very realistic, I would say</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">f) Brokeback Mountain - on a light note, even narrow-minded heterosexual men watch & re-watch this one - that has got to mean something, right? </span></div>
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Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-34726246989863419032013-04-07T08:09:00.002-07:002013-04-07T08:09:53.019-07:00Airplane Skincare Routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPVgHpWqhxE5JoNwd6iplO6tstKdFnSwi4YmYHf0lT3g5H_1jBYnt3D_Awm0E3U9TBDOyjsKYaV7zJlzEOTI2EEfo9p5L6gGL8eAanBifHO80AKlnyHFvtSm9wZGdzs8FG4RLTz1HZ8E/s1600/Desktop-Airplane-sky-flying-desktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPVgHpWqhxE5JoNwd6iplO6tstKdFnSwi4YmYHf0lT3g5H_1jBYnt3D_Awm0E3U9TBDOyjsKYaV7zJlzEOTI2EEfo9p5L6gGL8eAanBifHO80AKlnyHFvtSm9wZGdzs8FG4RLTz1HZ8E/s320/Desktop-Airplane-sky-flying-desktop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am going to the US in the Summer and, staying true to myself, I have already started thinking about my on-board skincare essentials. Since it is going to be a relatively long flight (roughly around 6 hours), I am planning on having a mini facial up in the air. I consider myself a bad flier, as I am generally nervous throughout flights and tend to feel rather dizzy and poorly, so I think taking my mind off the flight and onto a hobby/interest of mine - skincare, would prove to be somewhat relaxing.<br />
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First of all, I would like to share some interesting facts about airplanes and skin.<br />
Normally, our skin requires an average of 40% air humidity to stay healthy. When it comes to airplanes, the air inside is being constantly filtered, which dries it down to about 8% humidity.<br />
Also, it very germ-packed, because of the same reasons.<br />
Whenever I fly my skin visibly dries out around my eyes, mouth and cheeks; I get multiple breakouts all around my face, which is untypical of my skin, as if I break out, it would be around the jawline/lower cheek area or around my eyebrows, as I do suffer the occasional ingrown hair.<br />
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Long & unnecessary intros aside, here is what I would do on a long-haul flight:<br />
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1. I would board the plane with absolutely<b> no makeup on</b>, just my daily moisturiser.<br />
2. I would pack either <b>antibacterial wipes or hand sanitiser</b>, 16 fl Oz or less with respect to the latter, as otherwise, it will be confiscated by airline authorities (<b><i>always check your airline's requirements & restrictions for on-board fluids/gels before packing!</i></b>)<br />
3. I would carry with me a bottle of 3.38 fl Oz (100 ml) of <b>facial toner</b>, alcohol-free, as alcohol dries out skin.<br />
4. Along with the toner, I would have packed 5-6 <b>round cotton pads</b> for application/removal of products.<br />
5. Then I would apply a moderate amount of my evening <b>moisturiser</b>, as I would like for my skin to retain as much moisture, as possible.<br />
6. I would normally carry a few <b>hair pins</b>, so I would be able to pin my hair up, so I would be more comfortable whilst flying.<br />
7. If my evening moisturiser is too thick for my lips, I would also pack with me any<b> lip balm</b> of choice.<br />
8. I would carry with me a small plastic container (1.69 fl Oz/50 ml) of my <b>hand cream</b> and a pair of <b>moisture-retaining gloves</b>, so I could avoid having items slipping off my hands.<br />
9. An absolute must-have is deodorant and since pressurised containers, such as typical pulveriser-spray deodorants, would be under heavy restrictions, I would normally opt for a <b>stick deodorant</b>.<br />
10. I would also carry <b>dental floss & breath strips</b>, as they are more convenient than chewing gum and still help me with my dizziness up in the air.<br />
11. Finally, and this is optional, I would take with me my <b>SPF</b> (4 fl Oz/118 ml), provided I would be exposed to direct sun light once I'm off the plane. I could also pack this in my regular luggage, as I can always take it out ad apply it at the airport, once I have landed & claimed my luggage.<br />
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I hope this was helpful!Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-45600951289252213592013-04-05T05:37:00.003-07:002013-04-05T05:38:38.737-07:00Product Review: Boots Botanics Facial Oil<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosHfGTgDrasWHXWXScCyvsoQA8h3UMSfHAkzgrk2n02xKywo6fnafIvaTE404UqiTs4PYEssCJ74Abqd7NcQfdhHw50gw8xLEsHGrSa8tAL8EnxaoejoWcC5XEd_JiScRb2jfCPV9lNo/s1600/500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiosHfGTgDrasWHXWXScCyvsoQA8h3UMSfHAkzgrk2n02xKywo6fnafIvaTE404UqiTs4PYEssCJ74Abqd7NcQfdhHw50gw8xLEsHGrSa8tAL8EnxaoejoWcC5XEd_JiScRb2jfCPV9lNo/s320/500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><br />This is going to be a product review of the <b><i>Boots Botanics Facial Oil</i></b>.<br /><i><br />For the benefits of this review, keep in mind my skin type is normal-to-dry (normal T-zone, dry cheeks and chin).</i><br /><b><br />Product's Claims</b> (taken from the company's website - <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Botanics-100-Organic-Facial-Oil-25ml_1262011/">click</a>!):</span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></i><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This aromatic oil melts into lacklustre skin to lock in</i><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-style: italic;"> </b><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>moisture</u> for 8 hours while <u>softening</u>, <u>conditioning</u> and helping to <u>restore its natural glow</u>.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Use regularly to boost the performance of your daily skincare regime.</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Rosehip is nature's nourishing gem. The seeds are a rich source essential Omega oils, which help to improve suppleness and keep all skin types beautifully <u>soft</u> and <u>healthy looking</u>.</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Our beauty scientists use active plant extracts approved by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, to bring you beautiful skincare that's proven to work.</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>We've taken steps to reduce our impact on the planet at every stage in this product's journey.</i></span></div>
<ul style="background-color: white; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Formulated <u>without parabens</u>.</i></span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>People tested.</i></span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Please recycle where possible.</i></span></li>
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I've been testing this product for roughly a week and I would say I have built an overall opinion of what it does and how it performs on<b> </b>my skin (which does NOT mean it would have the same effect on anybody else's, of course). I am applying a layer of average thickness onto my face every evening. I have NOT been doing so in the morning, as this product would have to be allowed to sink in, prior to further makeup application. Rough absorption speed: 20-30 minutes.</div>
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<b>My Experience</b>:<br />
<i><b><br />Pros: </b></i>My skin feels <u>more moisturised</u>, but not significantly softer. However, it has not made my rougher.<br />
It have experienced <u>no break-outs</u>.<br />
It is very affordable: £9.99, but I got it £5 off, as there was/is a discount on the<b><i> Boots Botanics</i></b> range.<br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Cons: </i>It is a <u>glass container</u>, which doesn't make it ideal for travelling.<br />
The dispenser is a pipette , which is <u>not among the most precise pipettes</u> I've encountered and I work with pipettes in my academic facility's laboratory on a weekly basis.<br />
I've experienced minor <u>emphasis on a dry patch</u> of skin on my chin. I would ascribe this to the fact that this product is meant to be used in conjunction with your evening moisturiser and for the purposes of this review, I've been using it on its own, as I wanted to acquire accurate, unbiased and fair results.<br />
It has a <u>very distinctive smell</u>, which resembles rose oil and other herbal scents (I am placing this in the 'cons' category, as some people would not be able to tolerate the smell, regardless of the fact that it dissipates within 20-30 min.)<br />
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<b>Overall Opinion:</b><br />
I am pleased with the results on my normal-to-dry skin. I <u>wouldn't recommend this product to anybody with dry to very dry skin</u>, unless used in conjunction with a heavier evening moisturiser. I <u>would recommend it to people with normal to oily skin</u> (remember: oily skin needs moisture, as well!) As an addition to your skincare routine, it works well. I <u>will continue repurchasing</u> this, once it runs out, but I will be on the look-out for future discounts, as I am not willing to pay £9.99 for this product. I would say it's an appropriate inaugurating step into oils, if you are scared of using oils on your face because of possible break-outs. It claims to be 100% organic, which I can neither test, no vouch for. <u>I would give it 8/10 as an overall grade</u>. </div>
Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-43600846714409061642013-03-05T14:57:00.004-08:002013-03-05T14:58:14.909-08:00Wishlist: March 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6QBB8KphFQEzJsY29D2BGmsh55iXn3wUiu4b8buzLBV7MQestp0yJpspbz0mIIJ0Cl5QfWF2y7t4kYVZEAfhhlSU5j5E9bdQiw3FtLrDi8-wfug9FLJm162CjkvbAtq8RAPUHuxJfxk/s1600/Spitfire+Clubmaster+Sunglasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6QBB8KphFQEzJsY29D2BGmsh55iXn3wUiu4b8buzLBV7MQestp0yJpspbz0mIIJ0Cl5QfWF2y7t4kYVZEAfhhlSU5j5E9bdQiw3FtLrDi8-wfug9FLJm162CjkvbAtq8RAPUHuxJfxk/s400/Spitfire+Clubmaster+Sunglasses.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is going to be a very short post about the 3 items I desire currently.<br />
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1. <b><i>Google Nexus 10 Tablet (32GB)</i></b>: I have wanted a tablet for a long time, but I simply can't justify a purchase of this extent, as it is not a necessity. I am not in a position where I can invest in something of this level, I'm afraid. However, having read a lot of Technology-oriented blogs and watched numerous reviews and comparisons between the Nexus 10 and other similar products, I have come to the realisation that I really want it, but will 99.99% not purchase.<br />
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2. <b><i>Spitfire Clubmaster Sunglasses</i></b>: I bear great appreciation for sunglasses and I do love my Tortoise Shell Wayfarers, but the thick faux wooden frame appeals to me so much!<br />
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3. <b><i>Reclaimed Vintage Round Glasses</i></b>: Ever since the hype over the 'Ozzy Specs' hit the world, I've wanted to own a pair. Unfortunately, they do not suit my face shape at all. However, this model also offers the rounded motif, but extends the lenses and leaves a smaller gap inbetween.Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-68633055696705646972013-02-28T12:01:00.005-08:002013-02-28T12:01:37.929-08:00The Questions Tag<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Questions:</span><br /><br /><b>1. Do you have any nicknames, given to you by your family? </b><br /><i>Yes, when I was very little, my parents and close relatives kept calling me Chichi, which I wasn't particularly fond of.</i><br /><br /><b>2. Do you have any weird habits? </b><br /><i>I bet I do! Quite a few in fact. When I get up in the morning, the very first thing I do is make the bed. And that's saying something, considering all I really want to do is make myself a coffee.<br />Whenever I go to a grocery store that sells fruit, I spend at least 10 minutes at their fruit aisle.</i><br /><b>3. Do you have any weird phobias?</b><br /><i>I think my phobias a pretty standard, but still - flying on a plane, heights, elevators, walking on glass/see-through floors if I'm really far away from the floor below... I believe that's all.</i></div>
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<b>4. What's a song you secretly love to blast when alone? </b><br /><i>Nicole Scherzinger feat. TI - Whatever you like.</i><br /><br /><b>5. Biggest pet peeves?</b><br /><i>Stupidity, rudeness and a messy kitchen/dirty dishes. Oh, and unblended foundation.</i><br /><br /><b>6. Which side of the bed do you sleep on?</b><br /><i>My partner is always to my right.</i><br /><br /><b>7. Did you have any stuffed animals as a child? What were their names? </b><br /><i>I had one yellow lion, but I never played with it or anything. It was hanging from a nail in the wall and it didn't have a name.</i><br /><br /><b>8. What's the drink you always order at Starbucks?</b><br /><i>A Venti Americano.</i><br /><br /><b>9. Which way do you face in the shower?</b><br /><i>The shower head is behind my back.</i><br /><br /><b>10. Do you have any weird body skills?</b><br /><i>No.</i><br /><br /><b>11. What's your favourite comfort food? Food that's bad for you, but you would eat it anyway?</b><br /><i>I don't find comfort in food at all, to be honest. To me food is something your body needs to carry on with its natural bodily processes, and while taste is enjoyable, if something doesn't have a taste or tastes bad, I would probably still eat it. However, I do have a bad habit when it comes to food - I can easily overeat with fruit - 10 plums, 2 apples, 4 nectarines and 2-3 pears, for example would be an entire meal for me. Now this may sound "healthy", but I end up curled up on the floor, having bad stomach cramps.</i><br /><b>12. What are some of your favourite things to eat?</b><br /><i>I will try to keep the list as short as possible... Figs, mangoes, blueberries, prawns, mussels, eggs (boiled only), muesli and any extremely spicy dishes.</i></div>
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<b>13. What are your least favourite things to eat?</b><br /><i>I dislike most sweet things, but generally speaking chocolate, sweets, etc. This is a weird one - oil and olive oil as dressings. I am also not a fan of "baked goods", such as doughnuts, croissants, bread in general, cupcakes/muffins (I don't really know what the difference is between the two...). While I enjoy raw nuts, I dislike baked ones. </i><br /><br /><b>14. Favourite non-alcoholic drink?</b><br /><i>Peach Barley Squash with water. I think I may be a tiny bit addicted. </i><br /><br /><b>15. Favourite alcoholic drink?</b><br /><i>Vodka tonic.</i><br /><br /><b>16. What is my dream destination for a trip?</b><br /><i>I am a bit weird when it comes to "trips", as I love travelling and seeing new places, but my "dream destinations" are on the opposite ends of the spectrum. My top choices would be New York, Milan, Venice, Rome. Also, I would love to go to some remote places, like a small village in a snowy mountain range or a villa near a lake. </i><br /><br /><b>17. Dream job?</b><br /><i>Something in the medicinal research area. </i><br /><br /><b>18. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?</b><br /><i>Being happily married, living in a house with my husband and our cat and dog, being successful at what I do, travelling to different places across the planet. That's exactly where I want to be in 10 years time. </i></div>
Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-47804772867960504292013-02-13T14:52:00.002-08:002013-02-13T15:01:41.172-08:00My Skincare Routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />My skincare routine is divided in 4 parts - <b><i>Mornings, Makeup Removal, Evenings, Treatments</i></b><br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Mornings: </i>I wash my face with <b><i>La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel</i></b> for Oily Sensitive Skin. Followed by patting my face dry and applying my daily moisturiser <i style="font-weight: bold;">Vichy Normaderm</i>. Then I put on my <i style="font-weight: bold;">Paula's Choice Sun Care Weightless Finish Sunscreen Spray SPF 30</i>.<br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Makeup Removal: </i>I massage <b><i>Vichy Purete Thermale 3 in 1</i></b> makeup remover onto my skin for about 5-7 minutes to break down my daily makeup and remove it with a porous facial sponge. I then follow with a gentle exfoliator <b><i>Garnier Pure 3 in 1</i></b>.<br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Evenings: </i>I gently massage my <b><i>Vichy Aqualia Antiox Serum</i></b> onto my skin. Once it has soaked in, I reach for my <b><i>Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich 48-hour Hydration Cream</i></b> all over my face. For my eye area I employ my <b><i>Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Concentrate</i></b>, which completes my daily skin care procedures.<br />
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<b><i>Treatments:</i></b> About once or twice a week I use<b><i> Mudd peel-off mask</i></b> for deeper cleansing of my skin. I do get the occasional spot here and there, which is usually around the chin area, so to treat it locally I use <b><i>Quinoderm 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Gel</i></b> before I go to bed.<br />
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The majority of the products mentioned in this article have been reviewed in more depth in previous posts (<a href="http://insidiousme.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/monthly-favourites-why-ive-mia-for-few.html"><i>CLICK</i></a> & <a href="http://insidiousme.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/january-favourites.html"><i>CLICK</i></a>).<br />
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I hope you found this article helpful!<br />
<b><i>A~</i></b>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-70562460777213671072012-10-13T07:07:00.004-07:002012-10-13T07:24:14.486-07:00Monthly Favourites & Why I've been M.I.A. for a Few Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The first product I'd like to mention is <b><i>Got2be's 2 Sexy Collagen Mousse</i></b>. It comes off as a foam, much like shaving foam, and has a pleasant raspberry smell to it. I apply this to towel-dry hair after a shower, followed by drying my hair with a diffusing hairdryer. It gives my hair plenty of volume and body and the fruity smell lingers throughout the entire day. I got mine from Boots, but I believe Superdrug have it, as well.</div>
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Next up is <b><i>Paula's Choice Weightless Finish Sunscreen Spray SPF30</i></b>. I had heard/read a lot of positive reviews of this product prior to purchasing it. It takes me about 3-5 pumps to cover my entire face. It comes off as a transparent, oily liquid, which dries to a matte finish in about 5 minutes. It doesn't have any effect on the longevity of my makeup staying power (which for future reference is about 7-8 hours without having to blot a shine nose). Sunscreens have always been tricky with my skin, as it is very sensitive and most sunscreens do break me out almost immediately (curse you, Titanium Oxide/Zinc Oxide!) However, I haven't been experiencing any breakouts with this product and I have been using it for about a fortnight now. The drawback to this product is probably the price, especially having in mind that the bottle is just 118ml (4 fl. oz.) I bought it for about 19 pounds from their website and this was PP included.</div>
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The next product has a funny story behind it, actually. I am talking about <b><i>Quinoderm</i></b>I had been using Panoxyl (10% Benzoyl Peroxide) to combat any breakouts and it had been working fantastically. However, at one point Stiefel (the manufacturer of this cream) pulled it off the market and I was freaking out. A few days later when I went to Boots Pharmacy and asked whether they had anything Benzoyl Peroxide-based, they suggested I tried Quinoderm (10% Benzoyl Peroxide, 0.5% Potassium Sulphate) and I was reborn. It works miracles! If I have a whitehead, a subsurface pimple or even a blackhead - it's gone within a few hours (I usually apply it night time, prior to moisturisers & serums).</div>
<b><i>WARNING</i></b>: Benzoyl Peroxide BLEACHES. Pillow cases, hair, beard... It will bleach everything on its way, but it's worth it!<br />
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As you can probably tell from the picture, I've incorporated a lot of skincare products into my routine, as I found that as Autumn was slowly approaching (and now that it's here), my skin has been experiencing its seasonal dryness here and there - primarily on my chin, corners of my mouth & lower cheeks region. I have been a fan of Vichy's skincare line for years now and I opted for<b><i> Vichy Aqualia Antiox Serum</i></b>. It is a serum (d'uh...) which I apply after I cleanse my face before bed. I use 2-3 squirts of the pipette to cover my entire face. It usually takes about 10 minutes for it to sink in and prepare my face for a heavy duty moisturiser, like the next product - <b><i>Vichy Aqualia Thermal 48-hour Hydration Cream</i></b>. When they say "48-hour hydration", they MEAN it. I apply this at about 11pm at night and wake up at 5:30am to find a heavy-duty residue left on my face. It is very moisturising, but for those of us who are experiencing dry skin... Let's face it - we need it. I take about a pea-sized amount and cover my entire face, concentrating on any fine lines (which in my case is basically my nostril-cheek lines). Vichy had a promotion going in September (3 for 2), so I also got <b><i>Vichy Aqualia Thermal Eye Roll-On</i></b>. I don't suffer from undereye bags, but I do have dark circles. Whether I have witness them diminishing... No, I haven't. But I am willing to give this product the benefit of the doubt and continue using it until I'm out. </div>
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Now onto more beauty-related favourites...</div>
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I suppose it comes as no surprise to anybody that the cologne I've been using over the past 2 years is <b><i>Clinique Happy</i></b>. I love how fresh and clean it makes me smell. It is very light for a cologne, but it does last all day long. You can find it at any Clinique counter and ask for a sample/tester bottle or a spritz sheet. </div>
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Once again making it into my "Favourites" is <i><b>Yves Saint Laurent Eyebrow Pencil in #3</b></i>. Like I've said before - it is the perfect eyebrow colour of ashy blonds & light brunettes like myself. Remember the rule of thumb - always go for either 2 shades lighter (for brunettes) or 2 shades darker (for blondes), when it comes to eyebrow shading. This eyebrow pencil is, like most others, very waxy, which helps it stay put for good 12-14 hours. It has a brush on the other side, which makes it a perfect addition to your "On the Go Beauty Bag". </div>
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This next product is something I never expected to like, as I have never been much of a fan of Rimmel London. However, their pressed powders have utterly impressed me. I have tried their Stay Matte collection, but the product I enjoy using the most is their <b><i>Clear Complexion Clarifying Powder in Transparent</i></b>. It sets my makeup, doesn't look cakey even if I blot throughout the day. All in all, it is a very good powder for the price. I got mine from Superdrug for 5 pounds, but I believe you can find it for 4 pounds, as well. </div>
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And the last product is something everybody raves about, everybody loves it and with a reason. This is my 4th bottle of <b><i>M.A.C. Fix+</i></b>. I spray about 3-4 pumps of this on my face and it gets rid of the powdery effect I may end up having after setting my foundation. I also use it to freshen up throughout the day if my face is feeling a bit dull or dry. Brilliant product.</div>
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With regards to why I was gone for a good few months... I had a bit of a turbulent Summer. I am not going to be getting into details, as they are all personal matters and this is a public blog, so I would appreciate it if you would respect my decision. However, I will be posting more articles soon, some of which would be dedicated to my <i><b>Non-Beauty Favourites, College/University Topics, Games</b></i> (Yes, you heard me right - GAMES!) etc.</div>
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As always, thank you for reading and I hope you found this article helpful. </div>
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<b><i>A~</i></b></div>
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<br />Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-35624619459762541142012-06-07T06:08:00.000-07:002012-06-07T06:08:02.549-07:00Relationships & Breakups<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, there. I do realise that the primary focus of this blog is fashion & makeup, however, it is one of my main mediums for self-expression. Having said that, I'd like to focus on a topic that is probably not easy for many of us to talk about, especially people who have been through tough breakups, divorces etc.<br />
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I guess the best way to start is by describing my latest experience (without getting into too much detail, as it is still quite recent and I wouldn't want to disclose too much about it). My ex-boyfriend and I were together, in a committed relationship for roughly 8 months, which ended a little while ago on mutual agreement. Like any other relationship, we had our own difficulties, which could be recapitulated by: long distance, differences in character, improper communication. Despite our differences, we managed to stay together for 8 months and this was possible due to mutual love & support. Now, the question that would probably spring into your heads is whether we could have made it work, regardless of your differences. Well, to be honest, one would think that having in mind the fact that we are no longer together, neither of us thought we could. Having been through a period of sadness & regret, I can tell you now, if you have something to say to your ex partners, DO IT. Do it because they deserve to know how you feel. They don't deserve to be oblivious of your feelings & emotions. As selfish as this may sound and as many complications this may give birth to, I would always prefer to express my true feelings. To the people that know me outside the virtual space, this may sound ludicrous, especially coming from a person who used to say that one's emotions shouldn't get the better of them & that expressing emotions is a weakness. However, I have to admit, I was wrong. Yes, expressing your true feelings may leave you without a "protective barrier" and you may only end up getting hurt even more, but... Like that old song goes "love is a battle field". In other words, you owe it to yourself to fight for what you want. Of course, it is not always as simplistic as it sounds right now. Often times one may be confused about what they want. What I suggest is, draw a list of pros & cons and evaluate the situation. Hah, this reminds me of Miranda's way of handling things in the Sex & the City movie, when Steve cheated on her. They were both hurt, but they both wanted to be together again. Like her, I tried drawing the same list of pros & cons and... I am not going to reveal too much about it, but I am absolutely positive that it helped me a lot.<br />
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Another aspect of breakups I'd like to mention is time. People say time heals all wounds and, to a certain extent, I would have to agree. I believe many people would back me up on this, as in time one grows stronger, wiser, more independent, thus allowing them to view the circumstances more clearly. However, there is always the question of whether time would make you grow apart to a degree where you are no longer those two people who used to share a relationship together. Well, I can't give you the answer to this one, as it is unique to every individual. If I had to speak of my most recent personal experience, I would have to say that... Yes, I would hate to waste time, growing apart, socialising with other people, getting in new relationships. But... A part of me knows that giving each other time to be apart may be what we need in order to become better people and maybe meet one day and fall in love again. This is one of the beauties of life - its unpredictability. You never know when you may run into an ex-partner and feel the sparks again. Of course, if the ultiamte goal of all this is to get back together, there would always be the fear that growing apart would lead to becoming so different that entering a relationship with the same person is an impossibility. I reliase I am not being very helpful, as I am not giving you proper advice here, but you have to find the answers to whether trying to get back together shortly after the breakup or giving it time is the better alternative yourselves.<br />
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With regards to getting back together after a breakup, one should always keep into account the reasons for the breakup in the first place. If the reason was differences in character, and changes in your characters may be either impossible or undesirable, then maybe getting back togetherr is not the best option? However, it all depends on how committed you are to each other. I believe that if both parties work together for the overall benefit of the relationship, then certain changes are not to be underestimated. Yes, you may think that there is someone out there who would appreciate and cherish you for what you truly are and maybe you are right. But if you are positive that you don't want to be with anybody else, then I suppose your best bet is to have a serious conversation about the things each of you is willing to change and maybe try to work out how an eventual reconcilement would affect you as individuals and as part of an entity (relationship).<br />
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One more aspect of a breakup I would like to mention here is staying friends after the breakup. Many of us grow accustomed to the other person's presence in our lives & upon breaking up, we feel as if we've lost a big part of our essence, as we are no longer able to have even the simplest of conversations with them. In such situations, many ex-couples resort to trying to stay friends or close acquaintances. Yes, it does have its benefits, such as not having to leave the person in your past and completely detaching yourselves from them, which may aid the healing process, but let's face it... It is very difficult, at least at first, to view the person you have been sharing hopes, dreams, a bed with, in a different light. If you manage to eventually become good friends, other difficulties may arise. Difficulties, such as having to see them happy with another man/woman, or seeing them being truly happy on their own, without you. However, you should always try to remember the love you once had/still have for these people and that their happiness is something you should also be happy about. Yes, this may mean that you weren't the perfect match for them, yes it may also mean that you weren't capable of making them as happy as they are now/will be in the future. But if you truly love/loved them, try to distance yourself from feelings of anxiety & jealosy and try to see the bigger picture, which is that they are happy without you and this is no reason to get down on yourselves, because many people are not ideal for each other and splitting up is the best thing they can do, in order to preserve themselves as individuals & try to find happiness elsewhere.<br />
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I believe in the strength of a relationship, with all its benefits & shortcomings. In my opinion, the basics of a proper relationship are:<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"> love, passion, appreciation, commitment, compromise, devotion, (mutual) support, understanding, patience</span></i></b>. If you think your relationship had the majority/all of the aforementioned, then I would say <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>fight for it</i></b></span>, because finding someone with whom you were able to share all that is a true rarity.<br />
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I hope you found this article helpful!<br /><i><b>A~</b></i>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-44099823545062963602012-05-12T09:23:00.000-07:002012-05-12T09:26:15.797-07:00Why I should be the next Whatstrend Blogger?Hello, lovelies! It is a brilliant day in London: sunny with a slight breeze, puffy clouds in the sky... Absolutely marvellous. I find that the weather is quite an inspirational force to me.<br />
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Anyway, being a "weather man" is not the reason for this blog post today. The true reason is that <a href="http://www.whatstrend.com/"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Whatstrend</span></a> have announced that one of their members of staff is resigning and there is a spot available for the potential "New Whatstrend Blogger" (<a href="http://www.comeovertothedarksidewehavecandy.com/2012/05/the-search-for-the-next-whatstrend-blogger.html"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">click</span></a> for more information). Naturally, being a true-blue fashion addict, I couldn't resist but to try my luck & see where I stand in the eyes of professional bloggers, as a blogger myself. I only see it appropriate to tell you a few things about myself, as a fashion-addicted blogger & why I reckon I would be a worthy complement to your team. I am originally from Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Currently, I reside in London, UK. One of the things that amazes me about this city is the varity it has to offer on many different levels. When it comes to my personal style, I tend to be quite versatile. I enjoy incorporating pieces of different styles, thus creating an amalgamation of peculiarity & reminiscence. To me, fashion is one of the most elegant ways to channel one's personality & turning it from a characteristic into a statement. I am addicted to certain fashion trends, which are described by, but not limited to... decay, nostalgia, aztec, transgression, vintage. Some of my favourite fashion pieces include: loose, oversized sweaters/jumpers, skinny jeans, free-flowing cardigans, nature-inspired jewellery, braces, big bags.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Reasons why I should be the next <a href="http://www.whatstrend.com/"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Whatstrend</span></a> Blogger</i></span></div>
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First of all, I am always on the lookout for inspiration. I find it in nature, in high-end fashion, street-style, urbanesque motifs, architecture, historical sites, various cultures & many other sources of personal englightenment. </div>
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I believe in diversity in fashion & styling. Like many other things in life, without diversity, one can't simply appreciate the individuality & uniqueness of an outfit or a fashion piece. Following the same line of thought, I want to say that the diversity, offered to us by <a href="http://www.whatstrend.com/"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Whatstrend</span></a> is truly immense. I visit your blog on a daily basis, which is no surprise, as your site is marked as the second most visited Website by my browser, both on my laptop & on my phone (second only to Google.co.uk). However, I also believe that what you guys are often missing is the male perspective of fashion & style. I really dislike the fact that the majority of fashion blogs out there are primarily focused on female trends, fashion & style. Men deserve a place in the spotlight, as well. Lookbook & Chictopia are one of the very few sites that have utterly broken the boundaries between male & female fashion territory and that is something I utterly value. </div>
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I would also like to add that I blog about a variety of aspects of life. As you can clearly see, my blog is about Lifestyle, Fashion & Make-up. I understand that not being a strictly fashion-related blogger may come across as a drawback to my application, but like I said, style is a word that, to me, means diversity. I do believe my blog offers a solid diversity of topics, themes & concepts and I hope you keep me in consideration when it comes to choosing your next <a href="http://www.whatstrend.com/"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Whatstrend</span></a> blogger. I wish the best of luck to all participants and as for you, members of <a href="http://www.whatstrend.com/"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Whatstrend</span></a>, keep up the good work. You really are a brilliant group of people. </div>
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<i>A~</i></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-49816137593469179092012-05-11T11:01:00.002-07:002012-05-11T11:01:43.594-07:00OOTD: Spanish Sahara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrRjzm3O_ncHHocq3KFdrumId1GfFKaBMCu8OOvZJnl5emPwWQgyelxlcUG-MuRzbWamuMqWSX6PkF84QFeZw1XZuNylLlwvC7onZXFLMN8XZyoAf923jljYLn8i5iy_PkjC3b9Y749s/s1600/OOTD+11.05.2012+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrRjzm3O_ncHHocq3KFdrumId1GfFKaBMCu8OOvZJnl5emPwWQgyelxlcUG-MuRzbWamuMqWSX6PkF84QFeZw1XZuNylLlwvC7onZXFLMN8XZyoAf923jljYLn8i5iy_PkjC3b9Y749s/s320/OOTD+11.05.2012+018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hello there! It has been a while since my last OOTD post, as the weather has been so unpredictable, here in the UK. However, due to the brilliant forecast for today, I decided to give myself a reason to be cheerful & rocked out a Spring/Summer outfit. <div>
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Hat: Bershka<br />Cardigan: Charity Shop, Norwich</div>
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T-shirt: Pull & Bear outlet center</div>
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Denim Shorts: DIY jeans (cut, bleached, shredded, aged)<br />Shoes: Adio<br />Bag: Zara (men's 2010)<br />Jewellery: Camden, ASOS, random shop in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria</div>
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<i>A ~</i></div>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-86910807099552973542012-05-06T11:37:00.001-07:002012-05-06T11:37:21.844-07:00Trying to quit smoking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is going to be a rather unusual post on this blog, but I decided to drop down a few words, as I may find reading them in the future helpful & inspiring.<br /><br />I am a smoker and I smoke roughly a pack to a pack & a half a day, which, by man, is considered quite a lot. In this blog post I will try to establish, for myself & others, the benefits & drawbacks of smoking, based entirely on my opinion, so you are more than welcome to judge & criticise. I suppose, being human, it is always easier to find the negative sides of things with more of an ease, so I shall begin with that...<br />
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<i><u>Negatives of Smoking:</u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i><br />
1. May cause <i>Emphysema</i>, which is a disease characterised by shortness of breath, wheezing & increased breathing rate. The way this is caused is by inflamation of the lung tissue, causing phagocytes to appear in the area. They release an enzyme which destroys elastin, which helps alveoli expand & recoil during respiration. Loss of elastin means that alveoli can't expel all the air out of the lungs, so there is trapped air in the the thorax. In other words, with regards to Fick's Law of Rate of Diffusion, this would mean increased distance pathway & decreased concentration gradient, hence lower speed of diffusion, causing respiration to longer be a passive process, it has become voluntary & people with emphysema force themselves to breathe. Indeed, it doesn't sound like a positive outcome, does it..? No.<br />
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2. Prolonged exposure to tobacco fumes or polluted air may cause<i> fibrosis</i> & <i>lung cancer</i>, which we are all familiar with, thanks to the studies in the 90s about asbestos in wall paint causing cancer. Again, another serious drawback.<br />
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3. Destroys skin elasticity & causes <i>premature aging</i> of the epidermis. Yup, all those dark spots, red patches, blotches of discoloured skin we see on old smokers, it's all due to smoking & tobacco fumes.<br />
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4. <i>Discolours your nails</i>, causing them to be yellow-tinted.<br />
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5. You "smoking hand" <i>smells</i> well... If I have to be honest, I like the way it smells, but this may be due to prolonged exposure to smoking. I do remember not being particularly drawn to the smell when I was 5-6 years old.<br />
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6. Overall <i>bad smell</i>. I never understood that point. Every non-smoker always tells me "you've been smoking, you reek!" I suppose I will have to take it for granted, as I never sense the smell myself.<br />
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7. Having a last cigarette before bed & lighting a cigarette first thing in the morning contribute a lot to a <i>bad morning breath</i>. My boyfriend once told me I could melt concrete with it. As for overall bad breath throughout the day... I can't really give you my input, as I always carry breath spray & chewing gum on me, so I am prepared.<br />
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8. Decreases the rate of circulation in blood vessels. This may cause symptoms such as initial stages of hypothermia (<i>cold limbs</i>), dry skin on your limbs, discolouration of the skin (fingers & finger nails may become slightly blue-tinted, due to increased concentration of deoxygenated blood in your veins & decreased concentration of oxygenated blood in your arteries), <i>desensitised areas of the body</i> (decreased sensitivity of fingers, toes etc).<br />
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9.<i> Hair loss</i>. Some researches suggest that smoking causes hair loss. I have looked into it and I do see a positive correlation. However, having done courses in biological statisctics, I am inclined to say that correlation does not prove causation. There could have been other factors influencing the research results, such as genetic predisposition to hair loss, increased stress levels, high exposure to radiation, taking of drugs such as Adriamycin, Adrucil, Bleomycin etc (usually prescribed to patients in Chemotherapy), as they inhibit cell division, thus reducing the numbers of proteins being synthesised, hence hair loss.<br />
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10. Reduced circulation & decreased sensitivity (see point 8) may mean that we men may suffer from inability to ejaculate during sex, reduced firmness when sexually aroused, and in the long run - <i>impotency</i>.<br />
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11. <i>Social awkwardness</i>: You have to agree with me, it is not always adequate to be sitting around the table with your friend and all of a sudden, you inform everybody that you are going to walk away for a few minutes to have a cigarette. The social awkwardness is obviously reduced, when you are not the only smoker in the group, but for the sake of this argument, let's assume it's a worst-case scenario.<br />
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<i><u>Positives of Smoking:</u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i><br />
1. You always <i>meet new people</i> at a party when you walk out to have a cigarette. Of course, that doesn't justify smoking, otherwise, following the same train of thought, it would be okay to do illegal substances, simply because others do it & you may want to make friends.<br />
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2. A meal simply doesn't feel finished without a cigarette afterwards. A cigarette <i>takes away the feeling of bloatedness</i> and fatigue one may feel after a heavy meal.<br />
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3. <i>The morning coffee</i>'s best friend? Cream? No. A cigarette, of course. Those two go hand in hand, just try to deny it!<br />
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4. There is a great controversy about the emotional effect cigarettes have on us. Most smokers would agree that when in a stressful situation, lighting a cigarette calms them down. However, scientificly speaking, tobacco & nicotine excite one's organism. I always take the scientific approach when tackling an issue, but that would mean there is another explanation for the <i>emotional relief</i> we feel when/after having a cigarette. I suppose we make a subconscious link between the two and calm ourselves down automatically when smoking.<br />
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5. A <i>cigarette after sex</i>? Yes, please! However, you would have to make that extra trip to the bathroom to brush your teeth AGAIN, if you would like to cuddle & kiss afterwards, provided your partner does not enjoy cigarette smell.<br />
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Well, there you have it. That's everything I could come up with and I am proud to say I did not light a single cigarette while writing this, as I usually do when being in a creative mood.<br />
I have to say, having a 2:1 ration in favour of Cons of Smoking does make one realise all the drawbacks of smoking. Wish me luck in my attempt to stop smoking and I will try to keep you updated along the way.<br />
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<i>A~</i>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-69351423645630036452012-05-04T14:17:00.000-07:002012-05-04T14:17:02.421-07:0020th Birthday: Yay or Nay?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello there! So it was my 20th Birthday a few days ago and I wasn't planning on celebrating it, but my boyfriend surprised me with a birthday dinner & drinks and really sweet gifts. SO sweet, I just couldn't help myself, but to share with you what I received for my Birthday.<br />
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I received a Happy Tree Friends box set (season 1), as my boyfriend knows just how much I enjoy those little munchkins! Flaky & Flippy are my favourites, by the way!<br />
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I also received a Happy Tree Friends (Gory Mole) Memory Stick, which totally rocks, if I may add!<br /><br />Another thing is, he hired a professional photographer and had them take couply pictures of us & gave me the CD with all the pictures. They look really good.<br /><br />Overall, it was a sweet birthday, mainly because I got the chance to spend it with a person I love & cherish.<br />
Thank you, baby!<br />
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<i>P.S. I am 20... Still processing the thought...</i><br /><i><br /></i><br />
<i>A~</i>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-82390430345975288632012-04-30T12:19:00.001-07:002012-04-30T12:23:07.275-07:00Tag: 7 Deadly Sins of BeautyI decided to do the <i>7 Deadly Sins of Beauty</i> tag that has been going around for some time now. So here we go:<br />
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<b><i>Greed:</i></b> What is your most inexpensive & most expensive beauty item?<br />
-My E.l.f. blending brush (1.50 pounds)<br />
-My PMD Personal Micro Dermoabrasion kit (120 pounds)<br />
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<b><i>Wrath</i></b>: What beauty product do you have a love/hate relationship with?<br />
-That would have to be Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation, as sometimes when I would like full coverage & no transferring, I would use it & the results would meet my expectation, but my skin the next day is absolutely horrible.<br />
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<b><i>Gluttony</i></b>: What is the most delicious beauty item you own?<br />
-The bodyshop lip butters in Watermelon, Strawberry, Coconut, Black Currant... I always lick my lips so much when I have them on.<br />
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<b><i>Sloth</i></b>: What beauty items do you neglect because of laziness?<br />
-Hand down, Primers. To be honest, I generally dislike primers, because the majority of them are silicone-based & yes, my make-up does go on very smoothly, but it rubs off in a mere touch (generally!)<br />
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<b><i>Vanity</i></b>: What beauty items give you the most self-confidence?<br />
-Foundation or eyebrow pencil/shadow<br />
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<b><i>Envy</i></b>: What beauty items, belonging to other people, would you like to own yourself?<br />
-Chanel VitaLumiére Aqua liquid foundation, MakeUp Forever Sheer Matte or Sheer Glow liquid foundation, M.A.C. Face & Body foundation (in 00 the pure white foundation, so I could make all my other foundations lighter, as they are never light enough!), the Hakuhodo Flat top Brush.<br />
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<b><i>Lust</i></b>: What qualities in the opposite sex do you find most attractive?<br />
-I can't answer that, as I am not interested in the opposite sex. However, with regards to the same sex, hands down, intelligence & sense of humour.<br />
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<i>~A</i></div>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-16013734301272816762012-04-20T09:59:00.003-07:002012-04-20T09:59:55.599-07:00Wishlist: April 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukVxXLEMBwrFJ00tBsH85R73Gn2aLMlczNvYQeKu2sIl8GlUpD8gGDafn82m-icORuQ9-uweBylTa4a1Bq98HUMiblQwA17MVkAm3z6ybi3olxAz1jjuKzZxTKCirt8S06el4ycHrS7o/s1600/wishlist+April.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukVxXLEMBwrFJ00tBsH85R73Gn2aLMlczNvYQeKu2sIl8GlUpD8gGDafn82m-icORuQ9-uweBylTa4a1Bq98HUMiblQwA17MVkAm3z6ybi3olxAz1jjuKzZxTKCirt8S06el4ycHrS7o/s320/wishlist+April.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is pretty much my new wishlist for APril 2012. It's rather limited with regards to number of items, but in all honesty, I've been browsing loads of shops lately and nothing seems to appeal to me in any way. Weird...<br />
Anyhow, as for my current wishlist:<br />1. Acid washed denim jacket, <i>ASOS</i><br />2. Aged Grey/Beige Denim Jacket, <i>ASOS</i><br />3. "Onyx" & steel ring, <i>ASOS</i><br />4. Turquoise & vintage gold ring, <i>ASOS</i><br /><br /><i>A~</i>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-6022826933506012582012-02-04T12:16:00.000-08:002012-02-04T12:25:33.424-08:00Wishlist: February 2012<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigZ61G8FW01kW3RNw8JQcrdqaD5PHk1dXW5xdlPykKiIi4lGEMpO5ntB4qyjrh8G915ON3biJ448n7AdSCjBFAFYizCnTkL0Kq_MF-yWaqlupLUoVC-VlMlJ7nktgANqEfjzYbk0kTKU/s1600/image1xl+%25283%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigZ61G8FW01kW3RNw8JQcrdqaD5PHk1dXW5xdlPykKiIi4lGEMpO5ntB4qyjrh8G915ON3biJ448n7AdSCjBFAFYizCnTkL0Kq_MF-yWaqlupLUoVC-VlMlJ7nktgANqEfjzYbk0kTKU/s400/image1xl+%25283%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705377639797553682" /></a><br />I haven't been doing a lot of clothing-related shopping over the past months and surprisingly enough, I don't see many items I'd like to purchase. However, there are some exceptions, present in the visual I've provided. For more information about each and every individual item, carry on reading...<br /><div><br /></div><div>1. Snooded top with gloved sleeves, ASOS</div><div>2. Retro, dual buckled satchel, ASOS</div><div>3. Vivienne Westwood skeletal pendant, ASOS</div><div>4. Spinal Ear Cuff, Topman</div><div>5. Feather pendant, ASOS</div><div>6. Semi-formal grey vest, Topman</div><div>7. Wrap-around leather watch, ASOS</div><div>8. Burgundy red, retro blazer, Topman</div><div>9. Loose, seethrough knitted top, ASOS</div><div>10. Burgundy red denim shorts, Topman</div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly enough, my birthday is not really in the "near future", but if you are planning on buying me a present for whatever reason ;) , this post may prove to be helpful.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>A~</i></div>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-88319044188210116892012-01-23T10:34:00.000-08:002012-01-23T11:13:14.200-08:00January Favourites!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0_mnO_1nDR3sBzNHJF0hbKd46ubpseRnM35Uqh6dECvMvRWcmSJloZ04L2_8oAHBTXZ7jSXzz_RbR0VBzg_ZYf_hJtWRTMTorRO04Vrch6jQ0bbOYHCWc8swbD9R8G8-fa52m0cofiU/s1600/January+favourites+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0_mnO_1nDR3sBzNHJF0hbKd46ubpseRnM35Uqh6dECvMvRWcmSJloZ04L2_8oAHBTXZ7jSXzz_RbR0VBzg_ZYf_hJtWRTMTorRO04Vrch6jQ0bbOYHCWc8swbD9R8G8-fa52m0cofiU/s400/January+favourites+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700907565487676114" /></a><br />It's time for my monthly favourites and this time I've gathered a nice collection of goodies, both drugstore and high-end products. <br /><br />1. <span style="font-style:italic;">Skincode</span> Essentials: Daily Defense & Recovery Cream, SPF 30. I love this product. It doesn't break me out, provides a smooth surface for my following make-up application, moisturises well & provides a decent UVA/UVB protection.<br /><br />2. <span style="font-style:italic;">Essence</span> Quattro eyeshadow quad: This quad is called "To Die For" and it lives up to its name. They are long-lasting, non-creasing, amazing colour pay-off. You can pretty much see which two shades I've been literally abusing. Top left (Brulee) & Bottom Right (Mocca). I use "Brulee" as an inner corner & browbone highlight; and I use "Mocca" to do an inverted crease look (I may shoot a video on the look and upload it).<br /><br />3. <span style="font-style:italic;">Lush Colour</span> Supplement in Jackie Oates: I was quite hesitant to try this "foundation" out, but I decided to give it a go around Christmas time. I can sincerely say that I love it to bits. It doesn't break me out, provides medium coverage, but it is buildable, so I tend to double it as a concealer if I do need to cover up a blemish. The downsides to this product are: Contains some parabens, but surprisingly enough, I haven't noticed a negative impact on my skin. I did consult with the salesman & they informed me that the amount of parabens inside the jar was less than 2%, which is decent enough, I suppose. Another thing is that the colour range isn't brilliant either. As far as I can recall, they come in: Jackie Oates (very light, yellow-based), Light Yellow (more on the neutral side if you ask me), Dark Yellow, Light Pink, Dark Pink. I am a 90% match of the Jackie Oates shade, so I mix a little bit of my Vichy Aera Teint in it. <br />A really impressive thing about this "Colour Supplement" is that it is designed to be a multipurpose product. It says on the label that one can mix a bit of the product with their daily moisturizer to create a light-coverage foundation, but when I tried it, it looked more like a tinted moisturiser, as opposed to foundation... And I DO need my coverage! <br /><br />4. <span style="font-style:italic;">Yves Saint Laurent</span> (YSL)Eyebrow Pencil in the Shade 3: This is a rather recent purchase. The colour is exactly what I was looking for. It is brown with ashy-to-grey undertones. Really good for light brunettes with cool undertones like myself. It is dual-tipped. One tip is the pencil, which is wax-based, so you don't have to set it after application, and the other tip is a eyebrow brush. Costs 19 pounds in Boots.<br /><br />5.<span style="font-style:italic;"> Mudd</span> Peel-off Mask: I had been looking for a good peel-off mask for ages, prior to discovering this one. They are very affordable (a pack that would last you up to 5 applications is about 2 quid) and excellent for that "twice a week pampering" we all enjoy so much.<br /><br />6. <span style="font-style:italic;">V05</span> Extreme Style Matte Clay: I have been styling my hair recently (may upload a picture soon, or a tutorial on my hairstyle) and we all know how positively repulsive it looks when one has oily tressed of hair, running randomly across their scalp. Well, that is the look of non-matte styling products. I was purposely looking for a product with a good hold and matte finish and I am quite happy with my finding. I did order the Hairbond Moulder (<a href="http://www.theclubhaus.co.uk/style/hairbond-moulder.htm">click!</a>), as I've been reading a lot of amazing reviews on it, but until then, it's V05 for me.<br /><br />7. <span style="font-style:italic;">Garnier</span> Simply Essentials 2 in 1 eye make-up remover: I would never use this on my skin, but it really does remove even waterproof make-up from eyebrows and eyelids, which is basically what I use it for. I am happy with its performance and it is quite affordable (about 2-3 quid).<br /><br />8. <span style="font-style:italic;">King of Shaves</span> Alphagel Shave Gel: HOLY GRAIL! *OOHHHH* This is the only shaving gel that doesn't leave my skin in patches of flaky bits and also, it doesn't break me out, AT ALL! And my skin is extremely sensitive to shaving. <br /><br />9. <span style="font-style:italic;">Wilkinson Sword</span> Hydro 5: The BEST razor I've used in my life. 5 blades, extremely smooth shave, super moisturising aloe vera strip. I don't think I am ever replacing this product. <br />p.s. Thanks, baby, for opening my eyes about this product! xx<br /><br />I hope you found this helpful!<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">A~</span>Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-14653198868288147902011-12-20T11:33:00.000-08:002011-12-20T11:38:55.040-08:00OOTD: Your convictions will be your demise<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqtR3btUo7NZkNbLeltaG9KDeUGWZXO_WNEiIUHaspDn3ATaJ-fS54JlUcXEwv3-1-EjnryO9NnsMSl_Bl57lapVFOqA8O03LxGn5GGnwxCcHJeW0n5U2rXuC5pq-G1uRGIv5syBRwRk/s1600/bring+them+down.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqtR3btUo7NZkNbLeltaG9KDeUGWZXO_WNEiIUHaspDn3ATaJ-fS54JlUcXEwv3-1-EjnryO9NnsMSl_Bl57lapVFOqA8O03LxGn5GGnwxCcHJeW0n5U2rXuC5pq-G1uRGIv5syBRwRk/s400/bring+them+down.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688296686712133874" /></a><br /><br />Beanie: River Island<br />T-shirt: Esprit<br />Blazer: Mexx<br />Jeans: Topman<br />Shoes: Converse<br />Bag: no name<br />Ring: Camden Market<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-90021374912896992832011-12-19T15:15:00.000-08:002011-12-19T15:17:41.356-08:00OOTD: The clothes you left that lie on the floor, they smell just like you...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxQgWW48jH3H061gpZsp22aUoRpIl1ezmkFk5qtXleieVnTaEJWd4m_lFBSO9Opjp1Ag3rvTR5J0xWEtPD5UYQ4tdr3C2cuNCSdNrh7mQWE930d4G-moCnQUfCUu_nU59e1uKBsn1CRU/s1600/Dr+In+the+House.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 283px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisxQgWW48jH3H061gpZsp22aUoRpIl1ezmkFk5qtXleieVnTaEJWd4m_lFBSO9Opjp1Ag3rvTR5J0xWEtPD5UYQ4tdr3C2cuNCSdNrh7mQWE930d4G-moCnQUfCUu_nU59e1uKBsn1CRU/s400/Dr+In+the+House.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687982161123028066" /></a><br /><br />Bowtie: Primark<br />Shirt: T. Hilfiger<br />Blazer: Zara<br />Belt: Custom made<br />Trousers: United Colours of Benetton<br />Shoes: Custom made<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-63414478656685697242011-12-19T15:09:00.001-08:002011-12-19T15:12:01.200-08:00OOTD: We never had a chance...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpH-FMUvg3mTljweshKdqVCTGKrxSb4v_TxoQCo4_6NvWosS676zVSFc_i5JqGhDhdPBFBDWfJaIYhLSLKZmdk7RqrHNYgV9Ys5U0q9z2hJPbJsprKCVYNr9AbFzlbgI4KBlqFEkgRzk/s1600/accessorize+with+animal+rings.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 352px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpH-FMUvg3mTljweshKdqVCTGKrxSb4v_TxoQCo4_6NvWosS676zVSFc_i5JqGhDhdPBFBDWfJaIYhLSLKZmdk7RqrHNYgV9Ys5U0q9z2hJPbJsprKCVYNr9AbFzlbgI4KBlqFEkgRzk/s400/accessorize+with+animal+rings.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687980690980956930" /></a><br /><br />Bowtie: Primark<br />Shirt: United Colours of Benetton<br />Mustard Skinny Jeans: Topman<br />Rings: no name<br />Murse: Vintage<br />Shoes: Adio<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-25889191268386975652011-12-19T15:04:00.000-08:002011-12-19T15:09:06.470-08:00OOTD: Would it make you feel better to watch me while I bleed..?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2VaxVIsHX6exTebpwB1IJWhIYI7bYJoyw2wB_wP9mTzdof7n7OhuZvxiu_cmtyGuMgYYGaMMM3PqOOXHbCxU1gl4wfr-p9UelnyB6T-fzEmTbr4v0UEzpA1clxhcO1wHN2qeJNj_X6o/s1600/mixed+tape+much.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2VaxVIsHX6exTebpwB1IJWhIYI7bYJoyw2wB_wP9mTzdof7n7OhuZvxiu_cmtyGuMgYYGaMMM3PqOOXHbCxU1gl4wfr-p9UelnyB6T-fzEmTbr4v0UEzpA1clxhcO1wHN2qeJNj_X6o/s400/mixed+tape+much.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687980046628018994" /></a><br /><br />Snood: Accessorize<br />Blazer: Zara<br />T-shirt: Lotus<br />Black Skinny Jeans: Topman<br />Grey Converse: Converse<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-53891615333201999652011-12-19T14:59:00.000-08:002011-12-19T15:03:49.302-08:00OOTD: Your James Dean eyes & my cigarette stained lies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCYQP0r9XZlUuZs9TWGI9Fnag8K64RXcoodgFw3aFEXfGBZzlq1y4xO8BTlpnx78U2F2bK-hmwBjeEr25kwxTkPm1xPMiWU9Tr2yEIIPnTJe7W3sSny5H2hvy906dulo99B-krCTgizc/s1600/smoking+kills.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCYQP0r9XZlUuZs9TWGI9Fnag8K64RXcoodgFw3aFEXfGBZzlq1y4xO8BTlpnx78U2F2bK-hmwBjeEr25kwxTkPm1xPMiWU9Tr2yEIIPnTJe7W3sSny5H2hvy906dulo99B-krCTgizc/s400/smoking+kills.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687978396256011346" /></a><br /><br />Beanie: River Island<br />Distressed Cardigan: H&M<br />T-shirt: Lotus<br />Crimson Skinny Jeans: Topman<br />Grey Converse: Converse<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-50846521232229296862011-12-19T14:54:00.000-08:002011-12-19T14:58:08.363-08:00OOTD: You don't have to make a sound, I've got what you need.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-DYLXsgjIl8hlGrPHDVvm4rP80QOzfT_EaRkBmOBSwgevs_rjV7vPiSpbXVfGgFD9M8sPKSS6P5IOV6HCOMUmAjEhV7oe1Vgj6ShkHm-tSJpsGhotA3nBH6Smw2w8QPjo7_-eHl2UrU/s1600/meant+to+be.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 312px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-DYLXsgjIl8hlGrPHDVvm4rP80QOzfT_EaRkBmOBSwgevs_rjV7vPiSpbXVfGgFD9M8sPKSS6P5IOV6HCOMUmAjEhV7oe1Vgj6ShkHm-tSJpsGhotA3nBH6Smw2w8QPjo7_-eHl2UrU/s400/meant+to+be.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687976917948387298" /></a><br /><br />Blazer: Sisley<br />T-shirt: no name<br />Rings: Topman<br />Shoes: Ethnies<br />Jeans: Skinnies, by Topman<br />Bag: Gianfranco Ferre<br />Suspenders: no name<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-11188901837906075942011-12-19T14:45:00.000-08:002011-12-19T14:47:07.393-08:00OOTD: They identified him by the circumcision that I gave him.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMqSKrEKWOP_SzJMCsGYEyTa-raDkHcGUoeAXqA-Q9VCb9Ex_YTAA8sHgQ6SL2PXykyjJu9jmwth_ESI2tGygDLsTnGFKvIp1edwVdPtx5g-nuG-XNDAn5-Vcp9sPgXOuM7-Ctf8Khu0/s1600/city+kid.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMqSKrEKWOP_SzJMCsGYEyTa-raDkHcGUoeAXqA-Q9VCb9Ex_YTAA8sHgQ6SL2PXykyjJu9jmwth_ESI2tGygDLsTnGFKvIp1edwVdPtx5g-nuG-XNDAn5-Vcp9sPgXOuM7-Ctf8Khu0/s400/city+kid.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687974714788683554" /></a><br />I've totally been slacking on OOTDs, which I apologize for, but surely will be making up for in the near future!<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-20569588969078362312011-12-19T14:36:00.000-08:002011-12-19T14:45:05.150-08:00Wishlist: In the DISTANT future<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAOUSnYqizb6B-vJmYzix1xH3b40SSepphD7sJUa5RnOfFOQ0l14_4WM3MZt2DW-o-kypoFflKf8ICVqESX4PnJl3FTyjCDi8KaHe8W4thjMxoWOBeZ7oqKjWJeZfMk53lrdkpoHrAkY/s1600/l4_white_open_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAOUSnYqizb6B-vJmYzix1xH3b40SSepphD7sJUa5RnOfFOQ0l14_4WM3MZt2DW-o-kypoFflKf8ICVqESX4PnJl3FTyjCDi8KaHe8W4thjMxoWOBeZ7oqKjWJeZfMk53lrdkpoHrAkY/s400/l4_white_open_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687974070884869314" /></a><br />I just found out that Glamcor (<a href="http://glamcor.com/professional/mobile-studio/illumination-makeup-studio-l4.html">click!</a>) sell this amazing Make-up Station and I just fell in love with it.<br /><br />IMPORTANT: Sex Monkey, do NOT read this! xxx<br /><br />The reason why it differs from other make-up stations we see on "behind the scenes" of fashion events, runways etc, is that it comes with extremely birght lighting, electrical plugs for all sorts of appliances, huge compartments and, interestingly enough, speakers! In other words, you can sotre everything you need, beauty-wise, and listen to music from your phone (any phone with a standart 3.5mm jack), mp3-player (3.5mm jack) etc. They come in 3 different colours: black, carbon grey & white.<br /><br />Seriously, when I start making money on my own, have the chance to save up and if they haven't come up with even better make-up studios (hard to imagine it possible, but still...), this is definitely getting on my "To Buy" list. <br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860921026431548718.post-30399736277714191182011-12-18T16:37:00.000-08:002011-12-18T17:17:08.845-08:00December Favourites!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VmJI2V4hJlNiH3UeTAtgbB_-as13XUmw7IFabXpK43Mfb1ivAtdIA3nzf7s9tO5rDeb77qkdUfgxcuILunzwPRqT4IYeFzm0Mj_VQM8wKJQ2kgRnUo1U5Y0xOTYXS1Nlz47SvMMlzLk/s1600/december+favourites+2011+002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VmJI2V4hJlNiH3UeTAtgbB_-as13XUmw7IFabXpK43Mfb1ivAtdIA3nzf7s9tO5rDeb77qkdUfgxcuILunzwPRqT4IYeFzm0Mj_VQM8wKJQ2kgRnUo1U5Y0xOTYXS1Nlz47SvMMlzLk/s400/december+favourites+2011+002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687633310283723922" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSE0ciOxcvNmGTSknHaDZXHzUTOBttTcKFu0zH2wShMzyrD7mXS24zdj-AtDxwZzLZ8nNge9CRwV-E51qJFgUzCeavafSVuFf9ugw1p0fwag1uues5_Zq7qLAtm6xdKv5r0V4JDBbsuM/s1600/december+favourites+2011+005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYSE0ciOxcvNmGTSknHaDZXHzUTOBttTcKFu0zH2wShMzyrD7mXS24zdj-AtDxwZzLZ8nNge9CRwV-E51qJFgUzCeavafSVuFf9ugw1p0fwag1uues5_Zq7qLAtm6xdKv5r0V4JDBbsuM/s400/december+favourites+2011+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687633257358673474" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbh8UHimKRjhoGQGCmbmX6TO1r-WCgSyJgFlCtm5luuMai9JESdY11waa5go26JIueMeljgKl3hJMSVwYDVsj2cBTPlhyRUeBWJagmCW8vf9IsUSDnyHPN-rsMGkpos97kIDovo55ELOI/s1600/december+favourites+2011+006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbh8UHimKRjhoGQGCmbmX6TO1r-WCgSyJgFlCtm5luuMai9JESdY11waa5go26JIueMeljgKl3hJMSVwYDVsj2cBTPlhyRUeBWJagmCW8vf9IsUSDnyHPN-rsMGkpos97kIDovo55ELOI/s400/december+favourites+2011+006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687633202956964690" /></a><br />It almost the end of December now & I DO realize it's not january, yet, but I wanted to share with you guys the products I've been reaching for the most throughout the month of December. Some are old, some are new, you'll see.<br /><br />I've divided this article in 3 parts: Skin care & Make-up, Hair care, Miscellaneous.<br /><br />1. Skin Care & Make-up:<br />- As the weather is getting colder, the wind & humidity levels have their impact on the skin. This is the reason why I switched from my Garnier Mattifying Moisturizer, to my Skincode Essentials Daily Defense & Recovery cream, SPF30. It does not leave a white cast in photographs, sinks in within 1-2min and doesn't feel oily on the skin.<br />- Due to changes in the weather, my skin has started to dry out at certain places. My cheeks, chin & around my lips are starting to get flaky, so I need a moisturizing substance that I can apply throughout the day, over my make-up. I use the Simle Moisture Boost Hydro Mist. It does have a particular smell to it, but it's definitely a smell of cleanliness & purity.<br />- As Autumn is slowly moving towards Winter, I need a foundation that offers full coverage and zero transfer. The only foundation that does all this and competes with YSL Teint Resist, is Revlon ColorStay for Combination/Oily skin (I wear the shade 150 Buff).<br />- I don't have particularly oily eyelids, but if I wear eyeshadow for more than 16 hours, it tends to smudge and crease. I find that ELF's Eyelid Primer prolongs that wear of my eye make-up, and also, makes the colours more vibrant.<br />- I was wuite suprised to find out that ELF's Matte Eyeshadows in jars are actually ones of superb quality. They are not messy, blend perfectly, stay matte and have moderate pigmentation. I have ELF Studio Matte Eyeshadows in Nude & Chestnut. Lovely for the lid & the crease.<br />- You already know about this product, but honestly, it has been my Holy Grail touch-up throughout the day product ALL December. It is the ELF Tone Correcting Concealer. I love creamy texture, the medium coverage & the orange/tangerine fragrance.<br />- Naturally, I can't go anywhere without my setting powder, which is none other than Maybelline Dream Matte Powder. I LOVE this powder, as it keeps me matte for 10-12 hours. I tend to wear my make-up on a daily basis for 12-16 hours and I need to touch up around my T-zone after about 10-12 hours. <br /><br />2. Hair Care:<br />My hair started suffering severe breaking and split ends at the end ond of November, so I knew I had to do something. I went out and bouth 2 products by Lee Stafford, thw Arganoil series and OMG, they are sublime!<br />-Deep Nourishing Treatment: I apply this in the shower, after Shampoo & Conditioner, let it sink in for about 5-7minutes and then I wash it off. Amazing results, just after the first wash. It was kind of pricy, though. I believe I paid about 14 pounds for it.<br />- Nourishing Miracle Oil: This truly is miraculous! The tips of my hairs have never felt to stirdy (in a good way!) and so beautifully shiny, without looking oily. I love this product. I apply it after I have finished heat-styling my hair (blow drier/flat iron).<br /><br />3. Miscellaneous:<br />- Breath Spray in peppermint coolness. Sometimes the situation does not allow for gum chewing (manners, please!), so this comes in handy.<br />- Lynx mini spray deodorant, perfect size for your make-up bag!<br /><br />A~Anonymous A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/11510720995593831261noreply@blogger.com0