Lipstick

Anyone who knows me, knows I very rarely go out for the evening without anything on my lips. Even if I’m going for the dramatic eye effect (which every make-up girl worth her salt knows is THE reason to not overdo the lips) I like to have a nude lip-finish to compliment the look (my personal favourite is Bobbi Brown’s Rich Lip Color SPF 12 - £18.00, ‘Bare Pink’ shade  - for a creamy and intense finish).

Lately, I’ve been holding true to the classic red lipstick (I find the cheap and cheerful Collection 2000 Lasting Colour Lipstick - £2.99, ‘Cherry Bomb’ shade usually does the trick) for a classic pout with clout. But, being a lady eager for change, I’ve recently fancied something new. Over the summer months, I was wearing coral, dark pink and orange lip colour like it was going out of style, but of late I’ve been wondering - what is THE shade for this spring period?

Photo: www.alittleobsessed.co.uk

The answer ladies, is matte Hot Pink. With this statement colour flooding the catwalks this season, it only seems natural to plaster it all over our lips too. It’s a colour that suits everyone; from a porcelain-toned Mademoiselle, to a bronzed or dark-skinned beauty – it looks amazing. In my opinion it’s a colour best worn with darker clothes and accessories, and preferably other pink-coloured items for maximum impact.

After reading a selection of this month’s fashion mags, I was so excited by this daring lip colour that I decided to try it. I chose NARS Pure Matte Lipstick - £18.50, ‘Carthage’ shade, which has a brilliant quality finish. It’s smooth, easy to apply and long lasting, leaving your lips moisturised for hours.

I would recommend this lipstick to any regular lippy-wearer, who enjoys possessing an eye-catching yet classic pout!     

Moisturisers

As I sit here, typing away whilst partially watching ITV’s ‘May The Best House Win’ (a definite day-time favourite of mine) I can’t help but notice how dry my hands feel. Before I know it I’ve already sort out the nearest tube or tub of moisturiser and plastered my mitts with lashings of silky cream. It’s totally instinctive, much like the way my lips are never without a glossy shine – I DON’T DO DRY!

For me, having dry looking skin, lips or hair just isn’t on. It doesn’t take much to take care of your body, and to see obvious signs of dehydration or neglect is simply unsightly. Anyone who has seen my bedroom (a very select few, naturally) knows that my cosmetics ‘section’ is no section at all, and tends to take up a large portion of my space.

As you can see, during a sporadic decorating weekend, I decided to make my very own dressing table. This provided me with enough room to store as many beauty products as possible, and not have to worry about draw space. Now, if you were to rummage around you would be sure to find copious amounts of moisturiser. Whether it’s hand creams, foot soufflés or body butters, I have them all.

  

The beauty product EVERYONE should have at their disposal is Johnson’ Baby Oil Gel - £2.85. It relieves dry patches quickly, smells nice and leaves skin ‘baby soft’, especially when used straight after showering. It’s a product that can be used not only for moisturizing, but also for removing make-up and easing the irritation of eczema.

Another necessity is a nourishing hand cream. I recently opted for Burt’s Bees Hand Salve - £9.99. Although a little on the pricey side, this tinned item fits perfectly into any handbag and offers not only an intensive treat for your hands, but is 100% natural to boot. I also swear by Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm - £3.69, which offers a very similar relief to your chapped and dry lips.

Now, no girl’s cosmetic collection is complete without The Body Shop’s Body Butter - £12.50. Famous for it’s silky-soft finish and irresistible scent, this moisturiser is quickly absorbed and leaves skin looking and feeling like a million dollars.                     

And finally, for those who are looking for a truly intense moisturizing experience and aren’t afraid to spend those pennies, I give you… Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant. I was first introduced to this product during a trip to New York a few years ago. A lady working behind a make-up counter in Macy’s swore by it, and now, so do I. Described by some as the “eighth wonder of the world” (… eaaasy on) this item soothes even the driest skin, and offers reliable protection against the coldest of weather. It’s versatile; not only used as a hydrating moisturizer, but also a lip protectant and an aid for applying eye make-up. Coming in at a steep £25.00 it’s undeniably expensive, although in my opinion well worth the money as it’s an essential I rarely leave home without.  I’d recommend this product to ladies looking for a luxury item, which can be used in a variety of ways.

  

Concealer

There’s one thing I won’t ever leave the house without. Whether I’m nipping to the shop after a heavy night, or going for a session at the gym, I always have it on. It rescues even the most tired looking face and minimizes the impact of any unwanted spot or blemish; it is of course, CONCEALER.


My love affair with this particular product began at the tender age of 14. After suffering with the inconvenience of dark circles my whole life (with the only advice offered my way being to “sleep more darling”), the possibility of a short-term fix seemed rather appealing to say the least. The first morning I surrounded my eyes with concealer I was hooked. Brightening up the area and evening out my skin tone, it’s something I apply everyday and continuously search for the next best product.

My concealer collection would beat that of even the most make-up-driven shopper. Spots, dark circles, blemishes, veins, whatever… I’ve got them covered!

I must start with the product I’ve been using the longest. Benefit ‘Boi-ing’ - £16.50 was my first piece of ‘grown-up’ make-up and I’m still a faithful user. Especially effective on dark circles, this product doesn’t crease and is available in three shades to suit any skin tone. It can be used as a base before foundation, but also to touch up problematic areas (e.g. around the nose).

If you’re looking for something heavier then this, I would also recommend from Benefit, Erase Paste - £19.50. One of the thickest concealers I own, it totally covers any imperfections or discolourations you might have with one simple sweep. It also comes in an array of shades, and is teamed with a little spatula for easy application.

For everyday use, I like a product that leaves an illuminated yet subtle finish. L’Oreal Paris True Match Tou Magi Conceal - £8.19 is a favourite of mine, and a definite purse-pleaser. Improving the appearance of blemishes and fine lines, it leaves your skin looking smooth and flawless without feeling too thick. With its brush applicator, it helps to achieve a precise finish and lasts throughout the day. Simply radiant.

Although I’m a fan of all the concealers above, I can’t deny that I’ve left my favourite for last. Any passionate make-up wearer will most certainly have heard of Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat - £20.82 (on sale NOW at www.debenhams.com), and trust me, it’s every bit as luxurious as they say. Now available in seven different shades, it offers a weightless feel as well an effortlessly smooth look. Admittedly a little on the pricey side, it can be used before, mixed in with, or after foundation, and really is a versatile product that does exactly what is says on the tin. Whether you prefer either a made-up, or a more natural-looking face, this product is a must-have for any lady looking for that healthy and highlighting glow, whilst on the go.   

"Help! I'm a Cosmetic-oholic!"

As an avid current affairs junky and a self-confessed worrywart I’m fully aware of the shocking state of our economy. However, while most seem to be smartly saving those extra pennies and cutting back on ‘unnecessary expenses’, I’m finding this increasingly difficult to do. Throughout any difficult period – whether it’s a bad break-up, boredom or being broke-as-a-joke – treating myself to something naughty seems to be the only remedy that gets me back on my feet.

So here it is - I'm a 'Cosmetic-oholic'! Hair products, facial treatments, moisturisers and makeup... I want it all. I'll try anything, especially if it's offering a quick fix to a long-standing problem. My beauty articles will explore any item/s I've purchased and an overall opinion on the product.

What is it about GREY?

Photo by AdirondackUK @ Flickr

"Form an orderly queue ladies."

The words uttered by many a modest sales assistant as droves of women line-up at the till with their sort-after purchases. They are all eager to get home and find out what all of the fuss and hype is about. Is it a miracle elixir they possess; a feminine-phenomenon promising its user a glowing complexion and total product satisfaction? In some senses, yes. This isn't however, a new beauty serum that would rival the hysteria caused by Boots' Protect and Perfect serum. No, this product is in a completely different league. An astounding 40 million copies have been sold worldwide... the item is '50 Shades of Grey' and the magical ingredient; Christian Grey.

I will admit it; I have the book. I'm reading the book and I like the book… but why? What is it about this particular paperback that has caused women of all ages, backgrounds and regions to settle down with a glass of wine, next to their partners and give in to the persuasions of Mr Grey?

I first heard about the book whilst walking home after a strenuous day in the office. Amid a casual conversation with my boyfriend, he aimlessly started to discuss a book that “everyone had been talking about”. Now that particular working week had been a taxing one; I had an usual amount of deadlines and was spending the rest of my free time at the gym, thus not keeping as up-to-date with the outside world as much as I would have liked to. I asked him the title of this ‘infamous’ book, to which he replied, “50 Shades of something…” As a keen reader, I refused to believe that a book everyone was talking about was something I hadn’t heard of. I told myself that it must be a Harry Potter-type novel; something probably quite gripping but nothing that would interest me, let alone something I would actually read.

A few days had gone by, when I received a mystery Amazon parcel through the post. Puzzled as I hadn’t purchased anything from the site in weeks, I eagerly opened the package to see a dark coloured book cover, entitled '50 Shades of Grey – by E L James’. Chris (my boyfriend) had bought it for me (brave move!) and I knew at that point my curiosity would get the better of me and that I’d have to read it.

So, what is the book’s attraction? I'm about half way through and so far I have witnessed the hazardous traits of wonderment, desire and hope in the form of Ana Steele; the character central to the book and the storyteller of this erotic novel. But it's her perception of Christian Grey - the powerful, sexy and conceivably dangerous protagonist who captivates the young woman - which is really engaging. It's him that keeps my fingers turning the pages and him that fuels my, and each reader's fantasy of the ideal man...

Anonymous Female Friend 1: "Having been sucked into the world of ‘Fifty Shades’, I found myself instantly addicted to Grey. He's clearly a haunted man and I wanted to understand why this sexy character was the way he was. I wholeheartedly admit it; I felt the ‘Grey effect’."

Anonymous Female Friend 2: “For me, it was the way Ana acted around Christian that really got me interested. I think a lot of women can relate to that feeling of immeasurable attraction towards a man – even though many wouldn't want to admit it! It’s the power he has over Ana that makes the book so addictive; you don’t know what road he’s going to take her down… her naivety towards him is both frustrating and understandable.”

And the other halves... what's their critical analysis? Essential in gaining a greater scope of understanding about Mr Grey and his dazzling perception, I spoke to the opposite sex about the book, their girlfriends/wives reading the book, and the whole world who seem to be reading - the book.

The general opinion is that Christian Grey is putting all men to shame. His smooth persona, slick acts of confidence and 'gorgeous appearance' - manufactured by desirous woman the world over - catapults him to a level of 'charming' matched only by the likes of Clooney and Grant (both similar to a Chanel suit; classic and always in style).

Anonymous Male Friend: "Grey has an aloof demeanour; he doesn't appear to want to deal with his problems, he just represses them. Throughout the book, Grey's character shifts between his friendly, flirty attitude and his more reserved one. 

"Does he represent the 'ideal man' at present? Perhaps. Is he realistic? Certainly not. Do I feel inferior or threatened by the character's obvious appeal? No! He's like marmite in my opinion; a very acquired taste. I like to take the safer route when romancing a girl."

Admittedly, the book's sexual descriptions play an important role in its extraordinary success. The adult film business (a multi-million pound industry) is targeted predominately towards men and, if the age-old saying that "men get turned on by what they see, whilst women get turned on by what they hear" is anything to go by, those in charge are clearly onto a good thing. This phrase also suggests that women find what they hear - or read - pleasing, and so surely a book of this description and magnitude has been a long-time coming. 

Why do I think the book is so popular? Because to me, it is a 'how to' book in disguise. From a man's perspective, it explains how to romantically entice a woman and make her feel admired, loved and primarily, wanted. For ladies, it explores wanting someone unobtainable... and actually being able to have them. It is laid out on a plate; how good a man should make you feel and precisely how he should do it. Christian Grey is the optimum woman's fantasy, and within reach, with the simple turn of a page.

"Sometimes I wonder if there's something wrong with me.

"Perhaps I've spent too long in the company of my literary romantic heroes, and consequently my ideals and expectations are far too high." 

E. L James, 50 Shades of Grey

Ms. Etta

On 20th January 2012, American songstress Etta James (born Jamesetta Hawkins) lost her battle with Leukemia.  She leaves behind her an eclectic musical legacy - ranging from soul, rhythm and blues, jazz and rock and roll - and was undoubtably one of the world's most emotive singers.

Etta James 25/01/38 - 20/01/12

Known by some as 'Miss Peaches: The Matriarch of R'n'B', she was said to bridge the gap between rock and roll and rhythm and blues, as her style changed over the span of her career. Winning six Grammys and seventeen Blues Music Awards, her undeniably passionate lyrics and contralto voice is what placed her in a league of her own.

I was first introduced to Etta's music by my dad.

With an enviable music collection, he's always the man to go to for a CD or two. On reaching my teenage years, dad was keen for me to listen to a variety of music; new and old. I took a particular interest in the old girl groups - Diana Ross and the Supremes, Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells - as well as the female soul singers. Billie Holiday (the most talented and tragic of them all) was the most intriguing - her blog post is already in the pipeline! - but Etta James was close second. After hearing 'I'd Rather Go Blind' from the album Tell Mama (1968), I fell in love with the vocals and her ability to pour so much pain into one song.

I listened for hours; totally tuned in to the raw emotions in each lyric. At that point I was unaware of her turbulent private life, and a drug addiction that consumed many years of her career.

'A Sunday Kind of Love', 'Anything to Say Your Mine', and 'In My Diary' are among a few of my favourite songs. The level of honesty, feeling and heartbreak in the lyrics is largely unmatched by today's music industry, and is why her music is so attractive, to so many.

"Cadillac Records" Photo by dreamsjung @ Flikr

"Cadillac Records" (2008) - starring Adrien Brody - documents Chess Records, and the time artists spent with the record label. Etta, played by Beyonce Knowles, is a character central to the film. Many of the singer's personal issues are addressed in the movie; in particular her heroin and alcohol addictions, and the rocky relationship she has with her absent white father. Knowles' character successfully portrays Etta's talent and turmoil as a soul singer in the 1940s-60s, alongside many strong performances of her classic songs, including the timeless 'At Last'.  

Relatively overlooked throughout her career, Etta James was never guilty of producing a record lacking in emotion. Influential to artists such as Janis Joplin, Diana Ross, Christina Aguilera and more recently Adele (she also features on Flo-rida's 'Good Feeling' - 2011) , her talent is one of inspiration and strength. A truly gutsy performer, she's a woman not easily forgotten.

"What a lady Etta James was. 

She was the ultimate original. 

Her voice was breath taking and her songs are reflections

 we all recognise in some way or another. 

Its an honour every time I hear her voice. 

I saw her at BB Kings in New York a few years ago,

 and it was something I will remember forever. Thank you to Etta James. 

And i send all my love to her family and friends xxxx" - Adele

 

Ms. Bette

Photo by GasBombGirl @ Flikr

A striking photograph that captures an equally striking actress.

Growing up, I was always eager to sit in on films watched by my parents. Complicated story-lines and adult plots didn't phase me. All that mattered was that I was with 'grown ups' and staying awake as long as possible. Bette Davis was a regular on my modest television screen at home, and even though I rarely followed the film's narrative, I could see even back then that this lady was a big deal.

Two Christmas's ago, my dad decided it would be nice for us all to pick three of our favourite films, and watch them together over the holiday period. I chose Gladiator, The Sixth Sense and The Shawshank Redemption; the ultimate selection. One of my mum's choices was 'What Ever Happened To Baby Jane?', a Davis classic. After recognizing the cover and reading the blurb, I was immediately excited. It was the first time I truly appreciated a Bette Davis film, and what a film to start with!

Photo by federico novaro @ Flikr

Ruth Elizabeth "Bette" Davis, (born in Lowell, Massachusetts) an American actress who was renowned for her unsympathetic characters, captured the raw behaviour of women in romantic predicaments like no other. Teamed with a pair of distinctive eyes and her signature cigarette in tow, she oozed Hollywood glamour and guile. Her critically acclaimed performances left audiences in awe, and gave her the reputation for having an enviably intense acting style.
With a rather impressive filmography behind her, she often excelled in roles of manipulators, whilst other actresses may have opted for something more compassionate.
Her behaviour on-screen often mirrored that of off-screen as she famously had disputes with directors and co-stars. This was apparent during the filming of 'Whatever Happened To Baby Jane' (1962), where she starred opposite Joan Crawford. The pair where both aware of the significant effect the film would have on their separate careers, and due to public comments against each other after filming, a life-long feud was created between the women.

However, scandals and dirty linen aside, it was her combative perfection as an actress that makes her one of America's most celebrated leading ladies. For me, her skills are most poignant in the 1944 drama film, 'Mr Skeffington.'

Davis plays 'Fanny Trellis', a striking beauty with many suitors. A wealthy socialite, she goes on to Marry 'Job Skeffington' for financial security rather then love. Unfazed by her vows, she carries on playing with men's emotions until one day she is diagnosed with Diphtheria, and left looking aged and undesirable. The morals of the film are simple, and yet even though you recognize the shallow behaviour of Davis's character, you can't help but credit her for acting the role with such conviction.

Winning the Academy Award for Best Actress twice, marrying four times, and starring in countless films over her lifetime, an actress of her magnitude and guts is hard to come by. Her devotion to film is unquestionable, and separates her from many other classic American actresses.

Photo by NMCIL ortiz domney @ Flikr

  "Until you're known in my profession as a monster, you are not a star.

"I've never fought for anything in a treacherous way. 

I've never fought for anything but the good of the film." 

- Bette Davis (1908-1989)