What's in my make-up bag

I use Primark small make-up bags for everyday in my bag as they get dirty quickly so are cheap to replace. 

I bought this cream studded one for my holiday in April and have continued to use this since I returned. 

By now it's marked and grubby and will be replaced shortly. 

Inside the bag are my everyday essentials for on the move touch ups.

1. Pocket tissues 

2. Eye drops for itchy, tired eyes

3. Hand cream I shake hands with clients so soft hands are essential. Also as a personal shopper my hands suffer carrying wooden, plastic and metal hangers. Believe me they dirty and dry out your hands.

4. Vaseline for my lips and fly away eyebrows. I rarely wear lipgloss but always wear Vaseline. I prefer the original rather than the scented (why anybody would want a perfume like smells and taste in their mouths all day baffles me).

5. Tweezers - invest in a good pair to will do a better job than a cheap pair. Light to carry for on the go tweaks.

6. Small comb for smoothing ponytail, fixing your part and de-tangling the fringe.

7. Elastic hair ties. Your day may start with a perfect blow dry or tousled wanded mane but if you're anything like me, by afternoon that will probably be pulled back into a ponytail or piled on the top of your head in a top knot. Also useful for bad weather on the way to work. On the way home I usually pull my hair off my face and relax.

8. Kirby grips - at least one to pull fringe off your face whilst you're touching up your makeup. They come in handy so have a few at the bottom of your bag. 

At home I moisturise and prime then depending on my mood, skin and the weather I will either choose a BB cream, liquid foundation or mineral powder foundation. Bar the moisturiser, all products by No7 (available at Boots).

As I do my make-up before I leave the house I don't need to take all those with me.

9. No7 Instant Radiance Concealer to lighten the eye area and cover any blemishes.

10. No7 Mineral Perfection Loose Powder Foundation with brush for touch ups.

11. Seventeen Miracle Matte Pressed Powder to combat shine and includes a mirror for on the go touch ups.

12. Finishing touches. Black kohl eyeliner, smudgable as no brushes so use your finger. I line top and bottom to create a more defined eye. Cheap eyeliners are just as good as expensive I've found so no need to invest in my opinion.

13. Eye Bright by Benefit. Line the inner rim with this or just smudge in the inner corner for a brightening effect. 

14. Mini They're Real mascara by Benefit. I love this mascara it really lengthens the lashes. 

15. If I need a little more glam throughout the day I will use a coat of this H&M lipgloss it isn't too sticky and the colour is quite natural looking. 

If I was away for the night I would add face wipes, moisturiser and a toothbrush. 

Kitty x

Retail Therapy

I needed a little pick me up and as it is new season I had the perfect excuse for a little retail therapy!

I bought an Oasis floral dress in a gorgeous colour combination of powder blue, purple and cream. It's a sweet shape. It was on offer so I couldn't resist.

I have been on the hunt for a nice black leather jacket for years and didn't want to buy one until I found the perfect one. This Warehouse PU leatherette jacket is soft like real leather and looks like a Whistles style leather. It was on offer and I got a great deal. The middle panel detaches so you can wear the jacket a few ways. 

I plan to wear the dress and jacket together with my black ankle boots or knee high winter boots. 

I also picked up my new favourite mascara as that also was on offer today. For the same price as a single mascara, Benefit sell a double pack for the same price. You get 1x full size and 1x travel size mascara. It makes my eyelashes longer, isn't clumpy if you don't later it too much and curls them up slightly. I really like it and would recommend it. 

For under a hundred pounds (because of the offers and my personal discount) I managed to get a new daytime dress, a jacket I can wear this autumn and on winter nights out plus a mascara set. Successful shopping trip.

Kitty x

Today I wore . .

Today I wore a new denim shirt dress from M&S Limited Collection that I picked up for autumn in the summer sale. Always thinking ahead!

It is fitted on the top and shows off the waist then flares out at the skirt. It's feminine shape in a practical fabric. It came with a woven tan waist belt but today I wore it with my favourite tan Ted Baker waist belt instead. I prefer to use my own belts to put my own stamp on a new outfit. 

I wore black Topshop leggings as the weather was changeable and windy. 

I dug out my tan knee high boots which have been stored away this summer. They are completely worn in and battered but I love them like that! They need reheeling for the new season so that is on my to do list. I bought them during my Uni days from Barratt's kids range and have worn them to death. 

My Aztec print jacket is from Dorothy Perkins and is a great piece to wear this autumn. Statement jackets like this one add personality to an outfit. 

I needed my large shopper bag today to carry all my eBay sales to the post office. It is from Accessorise summer collection. I love it. 

Hair: I straightened my hair for a change and wore it down long with a centre parting. 

Make-up: No7 mineral powder foundation, concealer and Benefit They're Real mascara. 

Nails: ruby red short manicure. Essie nail varnish chips so easily, not impressed!

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing . .

My beloved Ted Baker tunic. It's one of my favourite pieces I own. It is sheer so I wear it over a black cami and leggings or skinnies. 

It's green with multi-coloured print on. It comes with a matching thin sash which I sometimes replace for a waist belt (coloured, tan or black).

I wear it a lot. It's so comfortable but looks stylish. When I wear a lot of bright colours I feel better, brighter, happier. More positive. 

I have a watch with a blue strap and gold face that goes so well with my tunic. Sometimes I wear a long pendant, other times a statement necklace or just a chunky gold one. Some days I pile on the bangles or friendship bracelets up my wrist.

This lovely tunic has served me well over the years. It's been to Ibiza and Gran Canaria with me if not more. 

Yesterday I wore it with leggings and a pair of green flip flops that I picked up on my travels up the East Coast of Australia in a little surf town called Noosa. They had every colour there I was torn between the hot pink, green and orange but I had to go with my favourite green.

My friendship bracelet in shot was a birthday gift brought home this summer from Ibiza. 

I always buy basic leggings from Topshop. 

Kitty x

What to wear for a spa break

This summer I visited a couple of spas and thought What to pack for..would be a great post topic. 

The latest package I used included all day in the spa, pool and use of the gym. A meal in the restaurant, a night in the hotel and breakfast the following day. 

Below are my tips for packing for the occasion.

Spa day:

If you are planning on making full use of the facilities, I recommend going in gym gear or lounge wear. 

To get it out of the way I'd start with your workout. Then swap your workout clothes for a bikini or swim suit ready for your spa treatments and then head down to the pool. 

If you are skipping the gym and going straight to relaxation then go in lounge wear, although robes are provided of course.

Included in the package was a Back, Neck and Shoulder massage. It was short but satisfying. I recommend enjoying your treatments before using the pool so you're not uncomfortable in a wet costume.

After your treatments why not head into the in spa cafe and have a light lunch. You could use the complimentary robe or take a sundress or kaftan with you. 

Both pool areas I visited this summer had comfortable sun loungers poolside so you could read whilst letting your lunch go down. Complimentary newspapers are provided however, for the second spa break I remembered to take a book. You may prefer to have a nap as it is a warm and relaxing environment.

 

Next I suggest a short spurt in the steam room and sauna for your skin and muscles. To cool off take a dip in the pool and if your workout wasn't enough, do a few lengths. Finish off with a jacuzzi. 

For your evening meal the dress code is usually smart with the guys expected to wear trousers. For both meals I wore a dress and heels but I think pretty flat jewelled sandals billowy high waisted trousers and a silk tee would of been fine also. Hair and makeup should be pretty but subtle.

Pack nightwear and underwear. Don't forget your toiletries and makeup. Hair dryers are provided but you might want to take straighteners or a wand. 

For breakfast and checking out the next day, depending on the weather something smart causal like skinnies and a blazer with sandals or Converse. A tshirt and statement necklace will finish off the outfit. 

This should all be packed in a leather overnight bag - invest in a good one if you travel for short breaks a lot. It will last you years. 

Kitty x

Today I'm Wearing

Day 2 - second day of the launch event for A/W 2013 collections 

I wore the below maxi dress, it was flattering and comfortable. It is very long in length so I had to wear heels. Normally I prefer a jewelled flat sandal with a maxi dress and not a heel. I would advice altering the length to just above the floor whilst wearing flats. If you must wear heels, even though they won't show much, wear wedges as skinny heels may  rip the bottom of the dress. A long pendant necklace is perfect for this dress. It is Grecian style so gold costume jewellery would work very well. If you're wearing your hair up, you could do a short dangle earring. Cocktail rings and cuff bracelets are statement pieces. 1 per outfit, don't overdo it! Less is more.

Day 3 - final day of the launch weekend. 

Today I wore a beautiful green skater dress by Ted Baker with my own statement necklace from Topshop and my Dune nude shoes. It was a heavy unusual fabric. It was very comfortable and I got lot of compliments.  

Below are two styles of statement necklaces available from johnlewis.com

Kitty x

Launch event for A/W 13 collections

Yesterday was the first day of a weekend event I was working to launch the new season collections. 

I chose to wear a bold blue blazer with a contrasting green shirt which looked striking together and were colours that suit me. 

I accessorised that with a statement necklace that I picked up in Topshop last year which I have had so much wear out of already as it has so many colours in it goes with a lot. Here is a statement necklace that I saw online that would be very versatile.

I dressed the outfit down with blue skinnies by Lee. Perfect fit and for petite height like myself they are one brand that stock a short leg 31inches (most brands do regular 32 and long 34) Lee's long leg is 33.

I wore my own Dune sale sandals I a nude shade. 

I felt stylish but professional and received many comments on the colours and fit of my outfit throughout the day. 

Today is day 2 of the event. Looking forward to wearing another fab outfit. 

Enjoy your day, 

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing . .

Aztec print jacket from Dorothy Perkins. A statement jacket looks really striking when worn with basics.

Mid wash blue skinnies from Dorothy Perkins. Mine are soft and stretchy, so comfortable and don't lose their shape. 

White scoop neck 3/4 sleeved fitted tee from M&S. 

Jewelled flat sandals from Dune. I like embellishment and these sandals are just beautiful. 

Nude bag by KG by Kurt Geiger. A fab birthday present.

Assorted bracelets, also birthday presents. Turquoise, chocolate and hold bracelet from Ibiza.

Gold statement necklace and gold heart studs. 

Kitty x

Illustrator Emma Jane Sowerby

My sister Emma is a freelance illustrator based in Uxbridge, West London. 

Last year she designed a range of kitchen linens for John Lewis and they've just arrived in stores. 

If you like country cottages and rustic styles you'll love Emma's designs. 

Visit her Twitter page here @emmajanesowerby

Visit her Blogger here http://emma-janesowerby.blogspot.co.uk/

Visit her website here 

http://emma-janesowerby.com

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing

Warehouse floral playsuit £42

Grey Converse £43

Warehouse denim jacket £45 now in sale

Black opaque tights from Topshop £8 120 denier (the darker the better)

My trusty summer shopper from Accessorize £28

Other accessories - black onyx large square stud earrings and a polka dot umbrella.

Hair and makeup - wanded ponytail, kohl lined eyes, bronzed cheeks and a shiney lip. Loving Benefit's They're Real mascara at the moment. Best selling mascara I believe. Try it. 

Sunday is a good day to shop, it's quieter than a Saturday. Feels more leisurely than frantic. If shopping in Liverpool on a Sunday, start with a big breakfast at Moose on Dale Street (I recommend The Grande Bouche) followed by relaxing half hour reading the Sunday supplements. Then head down to Bold St, Church St or Liverpool One. Take your time looking and trying on. Go with no ideas in mind and buy the first thing you like. Pick up a refreshing cold drink from Starbucks and head home for a late afternoon film on the couch. Perfect. 

Happy Sunday!

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing . .

I've gone and bought a piece for my Autumn wardrobe! 9th August and I couldn't resist any longer. Broke the seal or whatever they say. 

I suit autumnal shades best such as teal and burnt orange, sage green and raspberry. So this coming season is obviously ideal for me.

I love autumn clothing the most anyway as I've said before. Tan leather. Black leather. Layers. Wool coats. Skirts, tights and boots. Brogues. Classic mac. Satchels. Oh I get shivers. 

Yesterday I tried on a printed autumnal coloured dress in a boho style from Mango and a raspberry fitted Oasis dress but decided on printed smock top in autumnal colours from the Weekend Collection at John Lewis.  I chose this because I can wear it tucked into a skirt as I did for work today, also under a pinafore dress or loose over skinny jeans. Another great look is loosely tucked into boot cut or flared denim worn with wedges. 

After I finished working I changed into skinny jeans and sandals and the look changed completely. I love buying versatile pieces that I can style different ways each time I wear it. I more than get my money's worth. 

Wonder what my next piece will be. . Unusually I haven't my eye on my next purchase. 

I believe there's another heatwave on it's way though so I might be able to give my straw hat another whirl yet. 

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing . .

Today I'm wearing: 

A Mango ornate print tunic (£19.99) in blues and greens which I have accessorised with a chunky black waist belt with gold studs and a large buckle that I picked up in a market in London.

Black leggings (calf length) I always buy my leggings from Topshop after trying a few different brands I haven't found better, £12.

My black sandals are this season from KG by Kurt Geiger a bargain at £40. Simple t-bar and ankle strap easy to wear, comfortable and versatile. Wore them on holiday with my playsuits and tunics.

My toenails are painted in an Essie polish by the boys in Nail Express opposite Debenhams in Liverpool One £8.

I bought my bag to use on the beach on my holiday earlier this year but I love it so now use it all the time. It is from Accessorize and cost £28.

My make-up bag is from Primark I love the cream and gold stud combination. Approx £4.

Out of shot, gold ring and stud earrings and black wayfarer sunglasses.

Kitty x

Today I'm wearing . .

According to my weather app, today is sunshine and white clouds so bravely (or foolishly) I've opted for a summer look.

Top to toe..

Somerset by Alice Temperley white broderie anglaise top, £69. It is the sweetest little top. Little sleeves at the perfect just above elbow length. Fitted on the bust and with a panel around the waist it defines the smallest area that us hourglasses want to highlight. (If you're not an hourglass then this can help you fake it.) From the waist, the top flares out to hide any tummy you might have from your summer holiday (bloody all inclusive!) The holes on the broderie anglaise fabric give a hint of stomach too, a very subtle peak. (Saying that, a breeze earlier bared my belly button to the city of Liverpool. It hasn't seen the light of day since my holiday earlier this year but at least it wasn't pasty white.)

Weekend Collection by John Lewis green ankle length jeans, £55. If anybody has been watching the swimming this last week you will of seen Gaby Logan and Mark Foster have been wearing coloured trousers and chinos. I think they have been styled so well, really love the smart casual, modern approach to styling they've gone for. So my coloured jeans were ironed last night thanks to them. 

Dune jewelled summer sandals in blonde leather with multi coloured jewels, £65. My favourite footwear this season. Delicate, pretty, comfortable, stylish - perfect! 

All currently available at John Lewis Liverpool One or online. 

Kitty x

Topshop shoes

How gorgeous are these?! 

These are the Ratchet block heel strappy shoe from Topshop in nude. They're new season and £50.00.

Unless you are size 7+ they are out of stock online currently. Head into store though you might be in luck. 

For Topshop shoes and shoes in general,£50 is my limit (most of the time!). Especially heels as I don't get a lot of wear out of them. Once I blew double that on the sexiest pair of shoe boots ever but I've worn them to death. They are one of the best purchases I've made. 

Leather winter boots on the other hand need money spent on them. I wear them a lot and for a few years so more than get my money's worth. 

Anyway, back to these beauties. Perfect for this transitional period before we're quite ready for full Autumn trends. 

Wear now with tailored shorts, a grey tee and a statement necklace. 

Wear in Autumn with a leather skirt and chunky knitwear. 

Kitty x

After 1 day of rain I am already thinking of Autumn/Winter clothes

Yesterday was pretty miserable weather wise. I quite enjoyed a day on the couch though with a DVD and bag of sweet & salted popcorn for a change. 

My sister bought me the August Vogue for my birthday and I have yet to open it as it's been so summery and the August editions heavily focus on looking ahead to next season. I wasn't ready, until now.

Can't wait to get home tonight and spend a good hour alone with those fashion pages. 

For me, Autumn is my favourite season style wise. We get to wear a gorgeous wool winter coat and delicious leather boots. 

Before I feast my eyes on the upcoming trends tonight I will share with you my must have staple pieces for the next season. 

1. Classic mac - neutral colour (beige, navy etc) for autumn showers.

2. Opaque tights - smart but practical.

3. Leather brogues - so sweet.

4. Wool winter coat - I bought mine lazy year so will get another year or 2 out of it.

5. Leather boots - ankle or knee high never mid-calf.

6. Leather bag - classic, slouch of satchel it's personal preference. 

7. Good quality umbrella.

8. Sheer blouse - layer under dresses.

9. Tunics - with opaque tights and brogues.

10. Leather jacket - black to add that rock edge to any look. 

Personally my favourite fashion looks for this season include:

Leather - it might just be the accessories, or leather panels on a dress or buckles on a skirt but I love it. 

Tartan - my favourite print to bring out this time every year.

Fur - just a touch like a collar on a coat or a trim on your ankle boots. 

The above staple pieces will begin to arrive in stores this month. 

Happy shopping! 

Kitty x

Enrapture: Encode Totem Styler reviewed

My boyfriend bought me the Enrapture Encode Totem Styler for my birthday this month as I had been wanting a wand (everytime I say wand I think of Harry Potter, biggest fan).

I hadn't heard of the brand and was just going to try a low priced version first to see how effective a wand was and how hard it was not to burn myself or singe my hair (have you seen that YouTube clip? Traumatized!)

The packaging quickly established these were no £20 job! Gorgeous, stylish packaging immediately filled me with confidence that they were a good brand.  I like packaging having come from a design background.

The styler comes with it's own heat resistant pouch, perfect if you are off on a weekend away can store them safely.  The styler has a stand that flicks down to keep the hot wand directly off the surface.  Also included is a book with styling tips.  These added extras demonstrate the quality I think.  These are useful features that make the styler easier to use.  The website has tutorial clips too, to show you how to use the wand to create different styles including Boho waves and neat curls.  Again, another plus in my eyes.

I like a natural boho/beach babe wave to my hair.  My hair is naturally wavy but to create more defined waves and curls I have always used my straighteners to twist the hair.  I was worried about the heat on my hair damaging it as the styler is very hot but a few seconds on a chunk of hair is enough to create a defined curl.  You can then run your fingers through or brush them out slightly depending on individual taste.

I think they are very easy to use and the results look really effective.  I have long hair so for me it takes probably 30mins to curl the whole head root to tip, but some of my friends leave the top section smooth and just wand the lower section of their hair so that would obviously take less time.

I rarely use product on my hair as I dislike the feel of anything in my hair particularly sticky or dry products. Sometimes I will spritz some hairspray on after using the wand, however mostly I will leave the curls to slowly loosen and unravel for a more natural look.

If I wash my hair every other day or every two days I will use the styler 2-3 times a week so I feel this won't do too much damage especially considering the few seconds I hold the styler on each hair section.

I would definitely recommend this product to anybody wanting to try a wand, it is easy to use and gives great results. 

5/5

Kitty x