♯dontjudgechallenge

Hey Guys, 

Today's post is for the guys and the girls and I want some interaction and thoughts about this as it's about something that has taken the social media by storm. For those of you who don't know what The "don't judge challenge" is it was originally intended for individuals to share their insecurities on social media whether it be showing what they look like without make up or parts of themselves they clarify as a 'flaw.' 

This is a topic area which is really close to me, if you have read my first ever post you will know I have never been fully confident about my own looks for various reasons, one of those being bullied from a young age. This is something I have slowly overcome with my age, and realised that everyone has insecurities. Make up has helped me grow my confidence and I am not ashamed to admit that I feel more confident when I am made up. Recently I have gained more confidence wearing less make up, and even not wearing any during certain occasions. 

The Don't Judge Challenge, just like any other social media craze, eventually turned into something nasty. People drawing  fake freckles and monobrows and then revealing themselves with a full face of make up shortly after. This to me is quite the opposite of don't judge, as they contrast going from 'ugly' to what they classify as 'beautiful.' 

Left: No make up (just good lighting)
Right: Give me confidence 

We see beauty in different ways in the media, the growth of 'plus size' models (some of whom are actually smaller than the average UK woman) as well as seeing more multi cultural models across media and in fashion. However, it seems no matter how much we argue that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes those sad people who will pick up on others insecurities and use it as a social media craze still exist. 

As a response to this challenge, Jan Bonito (who some of you will know as the guy who recreates himself using make up to morph into various celebrities) posted a video using ♯goodenoughchallenge showing himself removing all make up and that everyone has their own beauty. Blogger My Pale Skin also created an eye opening video showing all of the comments she received when she revealed herself without make-up, the video is titled 'You Look Disgusting'. If you have not seen this video yet (I posted it on my Facebook page this week) take five minutes of your time to watch it here  I promise you it is an eye opener to those who think beauty bloggers in particular are perfect, and don't have their own insecurities. 

On a day to day basis I see so many hurtful comments to bloggers and celebrity pages, particularly when they have chosen to share a part of themselves which may not have been easy for them to do. In the past I also worried about posting particular pictures, or even creating a youtube video as I felt it would bring back the same criticism as I received in the past years, however it is something I am now strongly considering as tutorials are something I regularly get asked about. 

What are your thoughts on the Don't Judge Challenge?

Nailed It

Happy Sunday Readers, 

I have had a chance this weekend to finally put together a blog post on something I get asked about regularly. Those of you who follow me on twitter, instagram, or know me personally will know my obsession for my nails. I have a wide collection of nail varnishes and for years I searched for the perfect formula which is reasonably priced, comes in a varied range of colours and dries at a fast pace. Today I will review my favourite budget, and mid range nail varnishes and give you my thoughts on them. 

Collection 2000 (now Collection Cosmetics) - Prices range from £1.99 

This is one of the brands I have picked up in suspicion of how low the prices are. The range of colours is great, as well as the drying time and finished look. However, they chip very easily- I guess you get what you pay for from this particular brand. 

Rimmel: Prices range from £2.99- £4.49

My collection originally started with Rimmel nail varnishes, but I admit I was let down on the 1 minute drying colours, which definitely take longer than a minute. I do however love the I <3 lasting finish range as it chips less easily than other rimmel nail varnishes, however it does take slightly longer to dry and the colour range is limited.

Barry M- Prices range from £1.99-£3.99 

This has to be my favourite budget nail colour, these can last up to a week and come in the largest range of colours and textures I have seen as a high street brand. I love how smooth and even the formula is and I can always find the shade I’m after. These come at the small price of £2.99 per bottle and are usually on 3 for 2 or 3 for £5 in both Boots or Superdrug.

Models Own Pro- £8 (2 for £8 at Boots at the time)

I came across these on offer, and I love the shades, finish and drying time. I do however find them really hard to come by and have had difficulty finding them ever since. I have also tried the models own range but I have to say I was not much of a fan, although they come in a fantastic range of colours. I have no link for this particular product at this time. 

OPI-£11 This is the nail range I have been most disappointed in, considering they specialise in nails and are selected for use in salons. I have had my nails done by OPI in a salon before and they have always come out lovely but when buying them myself I have been very disappointed. For £11.50 for a bottle I feel the colours are slightly opaque and watered down, I need 3 coats to make the most of the colour.

Orly-£5

I came across Orly in a salon and I was really attracted to the bright colour and application and decided to buy it to top up my nail colour, I did find however when used myself it chipped very easily which was slightly disappointing.

China Glaze- £4.95- £6
 For bright colours this is the go to brand, great range of bright and neon colours, good application however a slightly longer drying time I found. This particular brand is great when looking for summer nail shades.

Essie- £8
On to what I believe is the royal treatment for nails, if you know me you will know I swear by essie. My collection has grown immensely over the past year and until proved otherwise I will continue to buy these as my first option. The finish of these is glossy and very professional, drying time is quick and a great range of colours. What I love about essie is that nails look salon fresh even without the use of a top coat and can last a week if you’re not prone to washing up a lot (unlike me). I cannot praise essie enough, I believe there’s only one or two shades I am not 100% satisfied with however there are always new colours released to update your nails as well as your wardrobe over the seasons. At £8 a bottle although not cheap, definitely worth the amount.

To Top It Off - Seche Vite Topcoat £5-8 

My favourite top coat so far is by Seche Vite, which I came across on Amazon. The formula dries quickly and gives a salon finish shine and it is such a bargain. The only downside is its only available online in the UK. 

For this particular review I felt I should add I have never invested in very high end nail colours, such as dior or chanel. The reason for this is I believe in sticking to brands which specialise in particular products, and for nails I have always felt the above brands do this best.

My nails always need to be immaculate as I believe anybody who takes care of their hands and nails (including males) reflect they are looking after the rest of themselves. I also think painting my nails helps me to reflect my mood.

Do you change a part of your look to reflect your mood? 

K xx 

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others. 

Koko's Christmas Giftlist

Happy Wednesday Folks, 

Its the time of year where the last minute panic of Christmas presents takes place (especially for the males) so I decided to put together a suggested gift list for all the lovely ladies who love make up and beauty. Boys I hope your reading... I have saved you hours of time and effort! 

I have broken down my top picks into categories to fit every girls taste and every gift givers budget.

Something Special (£50-£200)

For that special person, the sister who always goes the extra mile  for you, the girlfriend you want to spoil, or just to say thanks to your mum for everything she does.  

Source:
http://www.ghdhair.com/hair-straighteners/
ghd-rose-gold-deluxe-set

GHD Rose Gold Deluxe Set 

£195.00

This was on my wish list this year, thanks to my lovely mum I was able to get it as a slightly early Christmas Present. This gift would make any girly girl ridiculously happy on Christmas day. 

GHD is the most well known hair appliance brand, and this range oozes beauty. It comes with both the GHD V hair straightener in rose gold; which straightens, curls and flicks hair and the the black and rose gold GHD Air hairdryer. I have tried this hairdryer before, the results are so amazing you will never want to go back to any old hairdryer, it reduces the time needed to straighten and smoothes hair like a dream. 

Source:
http://www.beautybay.com/accessories/
zoeva/rosegoldenbrushset/

Zoeva Rose Golden Luxury Gift Set

£56.95

Not only are Zoeva brushes great quality for any make up fanatic, rose gold is SO in right now (can't you tell I just love the trend). The recipient will instantly fall in love with this, even if it was not on their list. This beautiful set includes the following brushes : 

106 Powder Brush

102 Silk Finish Brush

110 Face Shape Brush

127 Luxe Sheer Cheek Brush

142 Concealer Buffer

227 Soft Definer

231 Petite Crease Brush

317 Wing Liner Brush

Source:
http://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/
the-bombshell-gift-box.html

Charlotte Tilbury 'The Bombshell '

£145.00 

For every females inner glamour girl this set is a must have, it is perfect for a festive season party look. 

Charlotte Tilbury is the queen of high end make up products and gets it right every time. Out of all the sets she has released, this one is my favourite because the products create a classic look. Every girl should master this trend to get heads turning on a night out. 

The set includes the following products: 

Colour Chameleon - Amber Haze (Eyeshadow Pencil) 
The Feline Flick - Panther (Eye Liner) 
Full Fat Lashes – Glossy Black (Mascara) 
Cheek to Chic – Sex On Fire (Blusher) 
Lip Cheat – Kiss ‘N’ Tell (Lip Liner) 
K.I.S.S.I.N.G – So Marilyn (Lipstick) 
Lip Lustre – Red Vixen (Lip Gloss) 
Complimentary Make Up Bag & Gift Box

Source:
http://www.selfridges.com/en/yves-saint-laurent-limited-
edition-la-laque-nail-varnish-24-
piece-collection_456-84033258-TGB23159/

YSL La Laque Collections

These nail colour sets are exclusive to Selfridges, I have found myself gazing at them in absolute awe. Then again my justification for spending £405.00 on nail products is limited, however the La laque nail varnish trio is a lovely and more affordable treat and a great gift for a girl who loves to have her nails done. 

La Laque Couture

£405.00 

24 shades to compliment any girls wardrobe all year around.

Source: http://www.selfridges.com/en/
yves-saint-laurent-la-laque-nail-varnish-trio
_456-84033258-TGB23160/

La Laque Nail Varnish Trio

£55.00 

The set includes three festive colours; white, glitter gold and reflective bronze in the following shades:

Blanc Symbolist

Bronze Aztec 

Feuille D'Or

Just Because... (£50-£70)

These are great smaller gift ideas or to add as part of a bigger gift. 

Source:
http://www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com/
product/2325/
32022/Makeup/
Cheeks/Shimmer-Brick/
Shimmer-Brick-Compact--Copper-Diamond/
FH14/index.tmpl#i.1ar0my2wc3dywy

Bobbi Brown Copper Diamond Shimmer Brick

£35.00 

If you know the Bobbi Brown collections well you will know the shimmer brick is one of the most amazing and essential additions to any girls make up bag, so what better over the festive season than this new copper diamond shimmer brick?  This is a great highlighting product, and Bobbi's shimmer bricks are always a people pleaser, you just can't go wrong! 

Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette

£45.00 

This is a great gift for any girl; whether she likes subtle and natural every day make up, or is just a make up junkie. The most amazing part of this unique palette is that it actually smells like chocolate- make up AND chocolate you say? What more could a girl want?!

I am aware Too Faced is releasing its new Semi Sweet Chocolate palette on the 15th December, however I am not sure if this launch will be exclusive to Sephora, or also be available within the UK. 

Source:
http://www.theperfumebaseline.com/
female-perfume/black-orchid-tom-ford/

Tom Ford- Black Orchid

Price begins at £46.50 for 30ml

I first came across this amazing fragrance from my manager, once she shared the secret with me I HAD to try it at the airport on my way back from holiday. Although it doesn't come cheap, I will guarantee the scent of this is worth every penny spent. 

The scent is a combination of luxury florals and fruits, and is so beautifully distinctive it will get people talking as you walk past. 

Stocking Fillers and Secret Santa (£15-£40)

Beauty essentials any girl would love to receive...

Source:
http://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/
anastasia-beverly-hills-dipbrow-pomade.html

Anastasia Dipbrow Promade

£15.00 

This is the revolution in eyebrow products. Since I have got my hands on this I will never turn back, and neither will any blogger you come across. This is the best eyebrow product on the market, no matter what your eyebrow shape or shade. 

Source:
http://www.beautyblender.co.uk/
product/beautyblender_classic/

The Beauty Blender

£16.00 

I shamefully only just received my first beauty blender, and all I can say is I can't believe it took me this long. 

The beauty blender is a sponge like tool which blends foundation and concealer effortlessly for a flawless finish. 

If you girls don't have one of these in your make up bag, please send a hint to get one for Christmas- I promise you won't regret it! 

Source:
http://www.selfridges.com/
en/tom-ford-lip-color_450-3001058-LIPCOLOR/

Tom Ford lipstick

£37.00 

There has been a big trend on Tom Ford lipsticks, I did not quite understand it until I tried one for myself. Oh gosh, I want them all! 

These are slightly on the expensive side for a lippie, but make amazing gifts to treat someone special. I recommend a shade which can be worn both day and night to get the most wear and money out of the product, I opted for 'Casablanca.' 

Source: http://www.boots.com/en/
Essie-Winter-Baby-Its-Cold-Outside-Quad-Box_1636143/

Essie Baby its Cold Outside Quad

£24.99 

I love loVE LOVE Essie nail varnishes. Anyone who knows me well knows my obsession for nail colour. These polishes are great value for the price they come at and are available in a massive variety of colours. I find they stay on well with a good top coat (I use Seche Vite). 

Each season a gift set is available, this winter the set includes: 

Mademoiselle : the most classic grown up pink 

Chinchilly: sleek granite grey

Toggle to the top : sparkling crushed garnet red

Belugaria : highly textured matte black

So those are my top recommendations guys and girls... 

Are you are struggling with beauty related gift ideas?

I am always here to help and give me opinions so leave a message and I will try my best to advise you, in the mean time happy holidays... 

K xx

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others. 

Pucker Up!

Hey Guys, 

Those of you following my Facebook page, twitter or Instagram will know I recently went to the IMATS in London. It was obviously heaven on earth for me- the make up, and discounted prices, I will definitely be making another trip in store next year! The talking point at the IMATS was the huge queue going through the whole venue. But what were hundreds of make up enthusiasts queueing for? Was it worth the hour and a half wait...?

The queue was for NYX and in my opinion it was definitely worth the wait, the brand always does great products with a professional finish and this post will show you exactly what I mean.

I first discovered NYX least year at the pro beauty exhibition and I have been addicted ever since. My favourite brow palette was my first ever purchase, and I now double it up as a smokey eye shadow kit for an everyday look. At £9 (IMATS price- £13.50 online)it was a bargain. 

My new addition this time around are the lip creams. The finish and feel of these is better than anything similar that I have tried so far, both drugstore and high end make up brands. I bought four shades in two completely different finishes to test and I will definitely be adding to this.. 

The shades I bought are: 

Spice Xtreme Lip Cream (bright red- shine finish)

Candy Land Xtreme Lip Cream (baby pink- shine finish)

Buttery Nude Xtreme Lip Cream (peachy/nude- shine finish)

Milan Milan Soft Matte Lip Cream (baby pink- matte finish)

These ranged from about £3.50-£5.5-0 at IMATS and are available online for £5.50 (matte lip cream) and £7.50 (extreme lip cream). 

Top- Milan Milan
Middle- Spice
Bottom-Buttery Nude

My favourite is the nude, as I have found it difficult to find a nude which I feel suits me, this is perfect especially paired with NYX lipstick in Indian Pink (oh how well that fits!). My only regret is I didnt buy more shades in a matte finish, as at the time I was in a debate about whether I would like them. I actually love the Milan Milan I purchased in matte, and I think I will venture into more matte shades following on from my experience.

They feel really good and comfortable on my lips, and not sticky or drying which I find some super shiny or matte finishes can do. I can get away with wearing them for about 4-5 hours before needing to reapply which is amazing. 

All in all my favourite purchase of the day and I look forward to adding to my NYX collection, this really is a pro brand at a budget price! 

What are your favourite NYX products? 

K xx

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others. 

Who Run's The World?

Hey Guys, 

Its been a hectic few weeks in both work and play, but I wanted to write a blog post about some of the things I have been involved with recently. 

A few weeks ago I worked with two very inspirational women, and the brains, beauty and banter behind successful UK lifestyle blog Breathe Happiness. Hayley is the success behind online store Southwood Stores, the UK’s only stockist of american casual clothing brand Hello Apparel and  Shaneen is the eyes behind the lens of Rosewarne Cox Photography. 

Photography by Rosewarne Cox Photography for
Breathe Happiness

We worked together with two models to shoot for Hello Apparel to be featured online at Southwood Studios. This was honestly one of the most relaxing and fun atmospheres I have had the joys of working in. I love meeting like minded individuals, and both these ladies inspired me to keep working hard at what I do and love so much, as well as sticking to my love or hate honest nature in the process. 

I can’t wait to share images from the shoot, but for now you will have to deal with a few sneak peaks and behind the scenes until the final pics can be released! Take a look at the Breath Happiness blogpost featuring the shoot here. 

Photography by Josh Daniels
Make up by me 

The second event I took part in last week was working backstage with Make Up Artists Jay Gill and Urvashi Patel from The Beauty Fix. The show presented the talents of Bedfordshire College students and the results were beyond drawdropping. There was also a soft launch of upcoming designers Kian-E and Aywa. The bubbly and beautiful models were supplied by The Model's Portal (TMP) and it was a pleasure working with them. 

One of my favourite outfits
at the show.
Photography by Josh Daniels
Make Up by Me

Now in the past I had a bad experience of a show in a similar industry (as some of you know from a past post), so I have been sceptical of heading in the same direction again. However, I have worked with Aneesa (organiser of the show, director of Kian-e and tutor at Bedfordshire College) in the past. I can honestly say her hard work, dedication and personable nature shined through the whole event from start to finish with seamless results. I will Aneesa and all of the future designers all the best as they continue their journey- these guys will go far! 

I think these past few weeks have showed me that if you do have a passion for something creative, as hard as it may seem to lift off the ground you should go for it and eventually the hard work will pay off. In a world and culture where I have seen women holding back from what they want to do, it felt liberating to meet so many successful women on the same path as me. 

Do you have a creative side you would like to share? 

K xx

Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others.