Sunday 26 July 2015

Tangle Teezer Lovin'

Hands up if you suffer from tangled, knotty hair? (I'd be waving 3 arms in the air if I could). A simple brush or comb doesn't quite cut it for me or my frizzy hair, instead it seems to make the problem escalate even further. The amount of de-tangling and frizz-ease products I've used to tame my hair in the past never seem to work as effectively as I would like, but never fear fellow fizzy-hair-ers..TANGLE TEEZERS ARE THE WAY FORWARD! 
   

The idea of Tangle Teezers came about in 2005 and have since took the hair and beauty market by storm, after previously being rejected on Dragons Den (Big mistake). I've never thought to of purchased one before last week, I have literally no idea why as it's one of the most beneficial products I've ever owned, although the price probably put me off a little due to them being one of the highest priced brushes in the shop.
I purchased the lilac and pink 'Original' tangle Teezer although they have other colour varieties and types, including the 'Compact styler' perfect for handbag size and the brand new 'Blow styling' hairbrush. One of the pointers that sold this de-tangling brush to me is that it functions the same on both wet and dry hair, as normally I would use a comb though my damp hair as I find it guilds through easier, but a 2in1 is a massive bonus. Not to mention how smooth and easy a Tangle Teezer goes through my hair, it's truly effortless due to its varied bristles which most other brushes don't have. Tangle Teezers, you are my new found love.


What are your thoughts on Tangle Teezers
Any de-tangling product recommendations? 
Comment below.

With love, Soph x

Thursday 23 July 2015

Week trial with 'Doll White'



We are all for testing out new beauty products to boost our self-confidence a little so when we were contacted by Doll White how could we refuse? If you are unaware of the company Doll White, they sell teeth whitening strips that promote you are on your way to a brighter,whiter smile within weeks. Alexandra and I are both very conscious when it comes to taking good care of our teeth as we both have had braces, of which entailed a grueling daily routine, which still till this day have not grown out of. Any products that promote getting a whiter,cleaner smile,we are all over it!
We were sent the '14 day' whitening strips and split them between us both so we'd each have a week long trial. Although we doubted if we'd notice any sort of dramatic difference within such a short period of time,we have noticed a slight change to the colouring of our teeth. At first we were feeling rather skeptical with how well the whitening strips would work due to our teeth being fairly white already, although a few of our teeth appear to look a little discoloured and hoped this would help to even the colour out.

You simply apply the strips to your upper and lower teeth and leave for 30minutes before removing them and swilling your mouth out. However,it wasn't the most pleasant experience as when the strips were removed a thick jelly substance was left behind (not a pretty sight) causing us to clean our teeth again to get rid of the jelly and the disgusting taste. Although,having said that, our teeth are noticeably whiter and have been left feeling cleaner and more healthy within 7 days,so we can't really complain. No pain,no gain! (Results shown below). We would definitely recommend using this product if you want a quick fix, but would suggest you buy the sets that are for a longer term use if you want more noticeable results as we thought 7 days was not enough. Also, the strips are peroxide free and easy to use.


Alexandra
Sophie
Comment below any teeth whitening products you love/loath along 
with your thoughts or suggestions.

With love, Alexandra & Soph 
x




Tuesday 21 July 2015

Meet the bloggers: 20 facts about us

Sophie-Louise&Alexandra-Victoria


We've been around for a few weeks now and it'd be rude not to introduce ourselves properly. So here are 20 hand picked facts about us that took a while (hours) to condense. There was a lot to choose from!

1. We both met in year 7 during our first p.e lesson and have been friends ever since

2. Alexandra's biggest phobia is dogs (Parks are a massive no-go for me)

3. Alexandra has trained in karate from the age of 6 and still is to this date

4. Sophie is currently studying beauty therapy and won student of the year (whoop whoop check that out) and Alexandra is studying graphic design

5. We both have CRAZY curly hair,if you can help tame our manes please comment any recommendations below!

6. We both call each other chink 1 and 2 because we both have really smiley eyes (especially when we were both rocking the full fringe)..but if we are honest we can't remember how this started and yes we know its a little strange.

7. Soph got a detention back in year 9 that was uncalled for so we all stayed and held a protest against the teacher..it took 20 minutes before we were annoying him and he let her go, (we apologize Mr Shakespeare) we like debating A LOT

8. Alexandra and I handed in our year 11 art coursework minutes before the deadline, that's what you call cutting it fine..we have never been so anxious and ran so fast (and we never run..) 

9. Soph was a cross country runner in primary school but now struggles to walk for more than 10 minutes,unfit or what? (Alexandra wrote this!!!) urm rude...

10. Alexandra's favourite artist is Ariana Grande and she went to see her on her first world tour on June 9th called 'The Honeymoon Tour'

11. Sophie is the clumsiest person you'll ever meet.. A while ago, the girls went for a meal where Soph ended up knocking two glasses over our friend Joely and breaking a candle! Nice one.

12. Soph went through a phase of having bright red hair, we're talking neon. (biggest regret of my life)

13. Our favourite food is pizza..pepperoni for sure

14. Soph keeps up with the Kardashians more than her own life (SAD I KNOW)

15. Sophie has the BIGGEST phobia of spiders...(I literally end up in such a bad state,it's embarrassing!)

16. Alexandra's met Aaron and Gaz from Geordie Shore (BEST DAY EVER)

17. We've been to pineapple dance studios for a master class and told we were going to meet Louis Spence, (what a big fat lie that was!) but still had the most amazing day.

18. We wanted to start this blog a long time ago but had zero motivation, we also changed our blog name about 102934839028302 times..but now we're loving it!

19. Alexandra is obsessed with nail varnish and has over 80 different colours. 

20. We suffer from a serious case of zero self-confidence and we are in the process of writing a post all about the difficulties of growing up in the 21st century and the pressure it has on us to look good 24/7.


Comment below a crazy fact about you, and post your blog link as we love connecting with new bloggers!

with love, Alexandra and Soph x

Sunday 19 July 2015

Malin+Goetz



Introducing Malin+Goetz


Before I sampled any of our Malin+Goetz products I had a read of their 'Philosophy' page to find out more about the company and the variety of products they offer so I can give you a clearer insight of what they're all about. They are a family-owned-and-operated establishment founded in NYC,2004. One of the founders suffered from multiple skin conditions which led on to the companies ideas and aims. Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz have gone onto develop easy-to-use products aimed for people with problematic skin, whether this be dry, sensitive or eczema etc. Their advanced formulas blend trusted natural ingredients and knowledge of the industry to create the most wonderful products for the face, body and hair.

   




As a sensitive skin sufferer I find it difficult to find skin-care that completely suits my skin to a T. I sometimes find that even the self proclaimed 'for sensitive skin' products can even leave my skin feeling a little irritable and red. Ever since I started studying beauty therapy I have truly realised the full extent of how important it is to take care of your skin from a young age and have a set routine for morning and night. Due to a little OCD when it comes to testing new products on my face, I was a little apprehensive of changing my routine up a bit to fit my Malin+Goetz products in but I have given it a go regardless. 



The 'Lip Moisturiser'

I find taking care of your lips is of second importance to your facial routine as you're not going to be puckering up for anyone with crusty dry lips, am I right? For me one of my make-up must haves is a good lipstick, which I can not leave the house without. Although, most lipsticks can very quickly cause your lips to become dry and flaky, making it extra important to apply a lip balm/gloss before-hand. I usually opt for a stick balm rather than a petroleum jelly or more of a glossy lip moisturiser as I wear matte lipsticks and don't want to add much shine. Whereas I find this particular lip moisturiser has more of a lip-glossy appearance. Having said that, it does exactly what it says on the tin (well tube) and leaves my lips feeling nourished and moisturised without the need to keep applying it throughout the day constantly.
    


The 'Grapefruit Face Cleanser'

Cleansing my face when I wake up and before I go to bed is one of the most basic yet important parts of taking good care of your skin. Using a good cleanser removes all the grime, dirt and makeup off of your face which a make-up wipe or soap simply can not do. I use my cleanser instead of a soap to clean and freshen my face up, soaps are way too harsh and shouldn't be used of your face as they're usually doing more harm than good. Using this particular cleanser was a bit of a risk for me as it is proclaimed to be suitable for all skin types rather than targeting sensitive skin, which I wouldn't usually even think of purchasing. The fragrance was a beautiful scent and not too over-powering, which is always a good sign for us sensitive skin sufferers as I'm normally very paranoid with using highly perfumed products as they don't usually react well with my skin. After using this cleanser my face didn't react to the product whatsoever, (thank god as I'd of looked like a tomato) my face was left feeling extremely refreshed and clean, knowing all that grime is no longer hiding within my pores.






The 'Vitamin E Face Moisturiser' 

I was very excited about trying out this moisturiser as I thoroughly enjoy comparing a new product to the loads of moisturisers I've tried previous to this one. Not only am I interested with how smooth my skin is left feeling after a moisturiser has been applied but for me it's also important knowing exactly what the product contains along-side with what benefits it will have upon my skin. Without doubt I apply a moisturiser after my cleanser and toner, this left my skin feeling as smooth as a babies bum and not leaving my skin to appear greasy or shiny. Firstly I must mention that not all moisturisers contain vitamin E although I'm happy to inform you this Malin+Goetz one does. WOOHOO! Scientific studies have shown that Vitamin E has very specific benefits to the skin;

  • Protects our skin from environmental pollution
  • Provides us with a protecting action against UV radiation (although can not be classed as a sunscreen)
  • Contains a powerful anti-inflammatory to help prevent signs of premature ageing 


We'd love to know what you think of our review, if you have tried any 'Malin+Goetz' products or simply if you have any suggestions or questions, please don't hesitate to leave a comment below.

With love Soph x 







Thursday 16 July 2015

All 'bout them white skinnies

 As summer is quickly approaching and the weather has been nice (well today is an exception) we thought a post about white jeans should be written. I was never a huge fan of white jeans purely because I was scared they would get dirty 2 seconds after purchasing them and whenever I saw them on other girls I didn't think they looked too great. But recently I thought I would try them to brighten up a few looks.

I purchased my white skinny jeans from new look for around £20 which isn't too bad but the jeans have a few pros and cons like anything, as nothing is perfect. I usually buy my jeans from topshop but thought I would test out some others for a change. They fit fairly well but I find they are slightly loose around my hips even though I stuck to my usual size, (This has played to an advantage as tops and oversized shirts or blouses can be tucked in and still feel comfortable). Also, it was a bit of a nightmare that they didn't have the length that I usually have from topshop, but I can live with it as I roll my jeans up slightly anyway. They aren't high waisted which makes a change from the style I usually go for and I liked them just as much. I was happy with them for the price, as the other jeans in my wardrobe cost a bit more.
{NewLook}

                       

                    





    Other high street alternatives: 


{MissGuided}



{TopShop}



{RiverIsland}



{MissGuided}




{ASOS}



Below we have created 3 outfits each to give you an insight on how we'd style our white jeans:

Alexandra


(I have the oversized shirt and the whole of look 2...love love love them!)


Look 1


Look 2

Look 3


What are your thoughts on our looks? Not keen on white jeans? Or let us know your summer staple.
 Leave us a comment below;





with love, Alexandra x

















Sunday 12 July 2015

Light a candle, feed a child

When we were asked by Bridgewater Candles if we wanted to review a couple of their scented products how could we possibly turn the offer down? We're lovers of candles and heavenly perfumed products so this was the perfect opportunity for us two bloggers to dig in. 

We got sent the 'Sweet Grace' sachet along with the 'Grace - Inspirations for life' scent sachet. As soon as we opened our package the beautiful scent filled the whole room with the most delightful smell, perfectly made for summer time. However, I would say this scent may be a little over powering for some people as it does give off a strong smell (more so in small confined spaces) although for us we absolutely love it. The sachets can be used in several different ways including placing in bins,cars and to be used with a simmering candle pot. Not to mention the price, cheap and most definitely cheerful. You can't go wrong!


Bridgewater Candles also offer a wide range of candle tins, car fresheners, diffusers, fragranced oils and scented wax bars. 

'Light a candle, Feed a child'



Although we love candles and scented sachets we was also drawn to this particular company as they not only deliver beautiful smelling products they also provide you with a promise:




We feel as if more companies should set their own charitable promises,as knowing that we're doing a good deed and giving a helping hand is such a wonderful feeling. After all, every little helps. 



Website-
Twitter-
Instagram-



Let me know your thoughts and favourite scents below.
With love, soph x

Thursday 9 July 2015

Urban Decay: yay or nay?

I have finally got my hands on an urban decay palette and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made! I'd been contemplating getting a naked palette or just buying a few high street alternatives for a long time, but I was in need of a new set of eyeshadows and thought I would treat myself. I decided upon the naked 2 palette as it had a variety of nice shades to my taste, I do aim to have them all eventually though, especially the new smoky one which is released soon, as the previews look amazing.



I also bought the original eyeshadow primer potion by urban decay (You actually get samples of the four primer potions in the box, so I am still using those for now). I decided to buy the full version of the original as it dries clear before you apply your shadows. If you are unsure, it would be a good idea to try them all and then buy your favourite. By using this, I have definitely seen a difference in the length of time that my eye make up stays in place for including my eyeliner. 





There are endless combinations of shadows, and I love the feel of the brush when applying colours. Within the palette, there is a mixture of nude shimmer and matte shades with incredibly sassy names including 'bootycall' and 'foxy'. The brush is double sided with one side being soft and fluffy to get in the crease of the eye and to blend, and a smaller brush to add shadow to the waterline and inner corner of the eye.


If you are on a budget, we have found some high street alternatives, they offer similar colours but it would be a good idea to buy an eyeshadow blending brush.



Maybelline 'The nudes' palette

MUA 'heaven and earth'




L'Oreal 'colour riche la palette nude'

Let me know your thoughts on your favourite naked palette, whether you have tried any of the high street brands or if you have any other suggestions. We always love hearing from you!

With love, Alexandra x

Tuesday 7 July 2015

Barry M nail varnishes

An essential for me is definitely nail varnishes and I always have my nails painted. After trying various brands of polish, I have found that my favourite is Barry M. I have a growing collection of their different varnishes, they are great and don't break the bank, I find that they give good coverage and last a long time. I also love their top coat which I use with almost every varnish. I will talk about the differences and my favourites in this post.




Firstly, the standard polishes that were the first in the brand. These are my least favourite from the collection, this is because I feel that these take longer to dry and do not have the colour choices I often want to choose from. Also, it gives the standard finish after applying a top coat, compared to some of the other variations of the polishes. These polishes retail at around £2.99 each. My rating; 6/10



The gelly nail polishes are one of my faves and I have a growing collection of this type. They give a nice shiny finish before the top coat has been applied and I like the variation in colour choice that is offered. I find that they dry fairly quickly, but still not as fast as some of the others. These polishes retail at around £3.99 each. My rating; 7/10




I love the appearance that the silk colours give when they have been applied. At first I thought that these would need a fair few layers to cover the nail completely but I was wrong and they give good coverage. I like that its a bit different but I would say that often the colours appear lighter when they have dried on the nails. These polishes retail at around £3.99 each. My Rating; 7/10




The aquarium nail polishes are a must have for a different look. They shine in the light in different colours and look great on. At first I thought the colour may not suit me as I am fair skinned and thought that the blues and greens would not look great but they were! It gives a different appearance to the other type of varnishes and I often find I don't apply a top coat when I wear this polish, it also dries fairly quickly too. The polishes retail at around £3.99 each. My rating; 8/10




Next on the list is the speedy quick dry which has recently been introduced to the range. As soon as I saw these I knew I had to try them! They are perfect for when you make that last minute decision to change your nail colour and when they say quick dry, they mean it! I like the packaging of the polish and I love the pastel colours that are available, I only have two so far but I love the mint green one. These polishes retail at around £3.99 each. My rating; 9/10



Finally, last but not least we have the newest addition to the Barry M collection which is of course the daylight curing range. I am in love with this type of polish and it does exactly as advertised. There is a small instruction label tied around the lid if you are unsure of how it works but I must say it compares with salon quality nail products. "Barry M’s new Sunset Daylight Curing Nail Paint and Topcoat deliver the look and resilience of pro salon gel nails without a UV lamp or the expense! All you need is a Sunset colour and the Sunset Topcoat – no need for a basecoat as the special formulation bonds to the nail like a gel in daylight but can still be removed with a regular remover."
You simply apply two coats of the colour and a coat of the top coat and you're good to go! You achieve salon quality nails that are dry within minutes and give a gorgeous glossy effect that is super silky. I love the colours and cannot wait to get my hands on more! The colours and top coat retail at around £4.99 each. My rating; 10/10 its the only option!



There are a few other options by Barry M that I still am yet to try such as the matte and glitter polishes but here is a picture of the growing collection I have at home...


Let me know your thoughts on your favourite polishes and whether you have tried any of those above.

with love, Alexandra x