Confessions Of A Beauty Blogger Tag

It's been a while since I last did a tag post but I was tagged by Claire at xclaireabella and I am just a little bit too excited by this (Also, thanks Claire for what you wrote about my blog, it means an awful lot to me that you think that about my blog). So without much further ado, here are my answers to the 'Confessions of a Beauty Blogger' tag.

1. How many hours a week do you spend planning/writing/uploading posts?

I am really bad for this, I wish I was more organised and had scheduled posts lined up and always kept on top of my writing but to be honest, that's just not me. I am a bit too slapdash with my posts and everything is very 'off the cuff'. When I started I had my journal and I planned my posts but slowly I felt like it wasn't personal enough, then I started to write without out thinking ahead, like I do now, where all I know is the product and if I like it or not, I do this because I wan't it to feel like a conversation between you and I. It's certainly a lot easier for me. Asides from that I do like to proofread my posts before uploading and even then I will end up missing something. 

2. Are you a spender or a saver?

Hand on heart, spender. I should be more careful with my money but I really never feel the need to unless I know I've got something big coming up, like a holiday. I never see the point in having money if you're not going to enjoy it, which is possibly why I find myself struggling to get by until my next payday with little or no money in my bank account. 

3. When is easiest to write your posts?

Early afternoon by far, I've been awake for a while, had a few coffees and something to eat and I just feel like, at that point, I can get on with the rest of my day. I do try my best to write frequently but given I do shift work I find it difficult to keep up with. If only I could earn money from home and not have a job to go to then you would be seeing regular posts from me. Alas, that will have to remain a dream for now. 

4. What makes writing posts comfortable for you?

There is nothing better for me than to be sat in my living room with a cup of coffee and trash TV on in the background. I would usually be lounging around like this anyway so I like to make to most of my time and actually get some work done. 

(Channelling Lorde)

5. What's your worst makeup/hair habit?

I'll split this into two because I have a few bad habits.

Hair - My worst habit is constantly having my hair tied up. Unfortunately this comes with the job that I do, I'm not allowed to have my hair down because of working with food. My hair seems to not like it if it's tied up too much and the ends break off and my hair just gets generally knotty because of this. If I was a bit less lazy then I would take my hair out of it's bobble and give a brush through every so often and also a deep condition but like I said, I'm lazy.

Makeup - I will admit that I have gotten better with this but my worst habit by far is my cleansing routine. It was non-existent up until a few weeks ago but not I have actually gotten into the routine of cleansing, exfoliating, toning and moisturising, go me!

6. What's one quote you wish the world would live by?

'It won't be easy, but it'll be worth it' 

I think it reminds us all that nothing in life ever comes easy, especially the things you want the most. You don't (unless you are extremely lucky) get everything you want just handed to you, some things you have to fight for but it will taste so sweet knowing how much effort you put in.

7. How long do you spend getting ready every day?

Oh dear, I'm a little ashamed of this one. If I have an early start at work I will spend about 30 mins to an hour getting ready but if I have a late start then I can take hours! It takes a lifetime to dry my hair so I tend to let it sit in a towel to soak up most of the moisture, then I go through my skincare routine which doesn't take too long but where the most time goes is into my makeup. I can spend about 2 hours doing my own makeup, which sounds crazy but I just drift off into a trance sometimes and just create whatever comes to mind. Then it only takes me 2 mins to put on some clothes and do my hair. 

(Channelling Lorde part deux)

8.  What are your favourite posts on your blog?

A while ago, long time readers will know, I posted a series of product comparison reviews called Beauty Smackdown whic I loved doing. The premise behind these were I would take 2 similar products (can be any combination of drugstore or high end) and I'd compare the two of them based on several categories which were specific to those products. I really want to get back into these especially because I have bigger and better ideas for them.

9. Who is a beauty blogger you think deserves more subscribers than they have?

I am so very flattered that Claire(xclairebella) mentioned me for this question. I honestly believe that Claire's blog needs more recognition. She has a fantastic fashion sense and her photos are beyond beautiful. She is such a nice person and was super friendly when we met at a blogging event last year. You defintely need to look at her blog if you haven't already seen it.

10. What's one thing you're excited about in this coming year?

Oh there are so many things but I'm really not sure. I've been discussing a lot of options this year with my boyfriend, Daniel, and we haven't decided on whether we are going to move out or go on holiday yet but either way, the most exciting thing will be one of those. 

11. What's your favourite blogging moment?

Hitting 400 followers has been a pretty big moment for me and I was super excited about that but I think one of the most exciting moments was when I held my first ever giveaway. I never thought that I would be able to get to the point where I could do that but the responses are amazing. P.S I will be holding another when I get to 500 followers.

12. How long does it take to prep a post?

On a good day I can get one done in about 2 hours. Some days I'm a bit lazy and It takes me a while to figure everything out, but I try haha!

(Obsessed with OITNB, my take on Morello)

13. Are you wearing jeans/skirt right now or are you wearing pyjama bottoms?

Well I'm writing at 12:47am so it'd comfy Batman pyjama bottoms for me.

14. What are you most proud of in your life? 

Travelling half way across the world with my boyfriend and not getting lost once haha. I feel like I am slowly becoming a fully functioning adult and I'm proud at the fact that I'm not dependant on my parents and I can quite happily manage with it just being me and him. Now all I need is my own place and a serious job.

So those were all the questions for this tag, I really hope you enjoyed my answers and I would like to tag Catherine (bigbookssmallgirl) and I generally tag all my readers to give this one a go, I would love to read your posts so link them in the comments :)

Speak soon

Roo xx

You Can Only Pick One Beauty Tag

This tag was created by Rebecca-Louise Viner (Autumn Leaves) and when I saw it I instantly knew I wanted to do this tag. You should go and check out her original post here too and her other posts because they are seriously amazing. Let's start the tag!

Low end brand: Revlon. Took me a little time to think about this and I know there are plenty others that I could have said but honestly I think Revlon is great across the board. I particularly love their primers, powders and lipsticks.
High end brand: Urban Decay. Again, took me a while to choose but I am a huge UD fan. If you haven't tried their stuff then you are seriously missing out.

Primer: Becca Resurfacing Primer, for me this just does it all - It smooths, blurs pores, makes my skin look matte and keeps my make up in place. You can read my review here

Foundation/BB Cream/Tinted Moisturiser: Hands down Chanel Perfection Lumiere. I don't have to think about it, I just knew. This gives me all the coverage I need and has such a lovely finish. It has also just occurred to me that I have never done a post on this, so i really should.

Concealer: Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer. If there was ever a time to be hesitant about buying a high-end product it would be now. This is my ultimate concealer and I panic at the thought of buying an expensive one to find out that it just isn't as good. 

Bronzer: Elf St Lucia Bronzer. I actually only have 1 bronzer, as a pale girl I don't really go out of my way to get them but this one isn't orangey which is ideal. 

Blush:  Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Diffused Heat. This is a great shade for all, it is a little intense so a light hand is needed but it just gives you that pinched look. 

Powder: Maybelline Matte Maker Powder, I had been using other but when I ran out and needed an inexpensive option this came to my rescue. It does a great job at keeping oil and shine away.

Setting spray: Urban Decay De-Slick. I originally bought this because I saw Missglamorazzi on YouTube talk about it and it honestly does what I need it to. Unfortunately I ran out and haven't had the money to purchase a new one but I can only really compare it to hairspray for your face (without a horrible feeling).

Eyebrow product: Benefit Gimmebrow in Light. I dived for this product and surprisingly not very hesitant. I had issues with previous brow gels in the past but this just does everything I need it to, I can define my brows and also fill them in. 

Eyeshadow/Palette: Urban Decay Naked 2, I love all the Naked palettes but the main reason for choosing this is the fact it has a good highlight, a light matte colour, a matte taupe and a matte black. The amount of looks you can make from this palette alone are phenomenal.

Eyeliner: Collection 24Hr Extreme Liner, again a really inexpensive liner but absolutely does it's job. I have tried higher end liquid liners but none have made even a mark on what this does. 

Mascara: Lancome Hypnose Star. Best. Mascara. Ever.

Lipstick/lipgloss/lip balm: Recently I have been loving the cocoa butter lip balm from Palmers. Oh how I do love a good lip balm.
Nail polish: Nails Inc Baker Street - It is the most perfect cobalt blue I have ever seen!

Beauty tool: Real Techniques Exert Face Brush - it applies my foundation so immaculately! 

I hope you like this tag and I tag everyone because I love to see your thoughts, so leave your link below :)

Speak soon

Roo xx

Liebster Award :)

So I was nominated by Becky from Becky's Trinket Box and I figuratively died when I saw this, I'm so excited :)

So lets jump in with the questions :) 

1. What is one thing you couldn't live without?

Hmmm, if this is beauty related then I would probably say face moisturiser. I could have chosen make up but I think of it as if I couldn't have anything else then what is the one thing I would have. At least my skin will look well taken care of. If this is meant as everything and anything then it would be Daniel, (the other half to my quirky self, soppy I know.) He has always been there for me through the crap and the good stuff, he's always made me a better person who takes care of myself and pushes me to do things that I would only dream of. He is everything to me. Sorry for the vom-fest. 

2. Do you prefer summer or winter?

Errrmmm, Summer in winter and winter in summer. Haha I like not feeling cold in summer and the promises of fake tan and bikinis until I get there and it's too hot. But I also like the cosy thoughts of jumpers, blanket, eggnog lattes and the warmth of the fireplace but it's always too cold. I would probably say Winter because there is at least Christmas and plenty of sales!

3. What's your dream job?

Make Up Artist, hands down. I would love to work backstage at a fashion show doing the make up, it's a total dream of mine. I will be starting beauty therapy in September so I like to think I am a step closer :)

4. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

New York! I'm going there in August (If you didn't know :P) but I like to think that in the future I'll be living in the city as a high-flyer and all that jazz haha!

5. What's your favourite childhood memory?

Errrrrr, not sure. I always did enjoy when me and Catherine (A Small Girl in a Big Ol' World) used to hang out when we were younger (primary school besties!). It was always the most amazing time and we had such fun writing in books and talking about evveerrryyything!

6. What are you looking forward to in the next few months?

Oooh I dunno :/ Perhaps NEW YORK BABY!

7. What is your one film that you could watch again and again?

Too many to choose probably The Avengers.

8. Who is your biggest inspiration?

Daniel again! refer to above (He's amazing :D)

9. If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?

Probably Katniss Everdeen. She's cool and can totally take care of herself. Though I might say Black Widow because of the same reasons. 

10. What's your favourite thing to snack on?

Everything, you will commonly find me stuffing my face with something or another. Pizza, chocolate, crisps and general junk food. I am no health nut or a gym bunny. 

11. If you had one day to live, what would you do?

Sky dive, bungee jump, base jump and all the things that I am scared might kill me. I'm going to die anyway so might as well get to experience them. 

This was a super fun tag to do and I am going to nominate Catherine (A Small Girl in a Big Ol' World) and Belle (Mascara & Maltesers) 

My questions to you are:

1. Why did you start your blog?

2. Your stranded on a desert island, what 3 items do you have with you?

3. Who is your favourite Blogger/ Youtuber?

4. If you had to give 14 year old you one bit of advice, what would it be? 

5. What are you most thankful for?

6. What is one thing that you want to do that scares you?

7. Continuing from Q6, Is there anything beauty-wise that you want to try but are a little scared to?

8. What is your favourite piece of jewellery? 

9. Bit basic but favourite food?

10. Finally, I think that everyone should like themselves, so what do you like about yourself? :)

So I hope you enjoyed this post and come back tomorrow for The Drugstore Edit :)

Speak Soon 

Roo xx

10 Beauty Mistakes I Used To Make Tag!

This was a tag I saw by Belle from Maltesers and Mascara and she tagged everyone so I thought I would give it a go. Here is her post for reference: http://mascara-and-maltesers.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/10-beauty-mistakes-i-used-to-make.html

Here we go!:

1. Bad skincare
Well lets be honest, no skincare. Only recently (the past 2 years) I have actually started taking care of my skin. I never understood the importance of skincare until I really got into makeup and to be honest have left my skin in a bit of a state and wish that I had taken care of it sooner!

2. Panda eyes
I too, like most, went through I bit of a goth/emo stage and this involved applying loads of eyeliner all the way around my eye, and if I was feeling arty I wing the outside and the inside, I feel like I should try and recreate this look for some reason!

3. Pink eyeliner
Oh yes! I think this was actually a lip liner but I used to double line my under eyes with black and pink and I thought I was so arty and cool and I was actually going for the tired almost dead look. I would never in a million years dream of doing this again unless it was part of costume makeup.

4. Foundation that was too dark
I never intended this but as I could only afford drugstore makeup I didn't have a lot of choice and to be honest the colour selection, especially if you are stupidly pale, is rubbish. I used to use Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid which has such an orangey tone to it and I have tried other brands too with no avail. So having a better income has really helped and also finding out how you should colour match foundation because I never knew there was such a thing as cool/neutral/warm undertones!

5. Applying foundation when my skin wasn't ready
I didn't use a primer (I had never heard of such a thing!), I didn't moisurise ad I used to just apply the foundation with my hands right onto my bare skin and I had horribly dry flaky skin and it used to cling to every bit and show it up like mad!

6. Applying eyeliner only to the waterline
I don't mind this if it's balanced on top but on days where I didn't use the panda eye approach I used to put on some mascara and and line my bottom waterline and it just looks so heavy and really makes your eyes look droopy.

7. No Blush/Bronzer
I never used either of these because I didn't know that they were important. I didn't think blush was that necessary and being only exposed to those who over apply it then I was certainly put off, same goes for bronzer but being as pale as I am I thought it would just look ridiculous and didn't realise that you could do so much and add so much dimension with both. So I used to walk around with flat colour foundation, yuck.

8. Foundation lips
I think I feel most embarrassed about this one. But I think it's a phase that everyone goes through and you end up looking like you have no lips.

9. Makeup for days
Another part of me not taking care of my skin was that I was a serial offender for not taking off my makeup at the end of the day, I didn't see a point if it was still hanging around. I used to just neaten it up and carry on. I seriously wish I hadn't because it's so bad and probably caused a lot of breakouts.

10. Tide lines
Most of my makeup mishaps are to do with foundation and this is an absolute no no and a total sin! Considering I was using foundation that was too dark, I never blended it down my neck so it came to an end on my jaw and you would have seen it from a mile off!


I hope you enjoyed this and I'd love to know your makeup mistakes so I am tagging everyone, especially Catherine at bigbookssmallgirl.blogspot.co.uk

- Roo xx