Love From Maira

Maira | London A beauty and lifestyle blogger; let's escape into the world of pigments and shimmer or get deep into discussing important issues surrounding health and wellbeing. [email protected]

[lovefrommaira]

The secret to an amazing makeup look (besides a flawless base) is, I believe, a well put-together eye look, whether you opt for something more simple and natural or want to experiment with glitters and liner. With your eyes being the windows to your soul, they're usually a facial feature that engages the most attention. This is why I enjoy putting in a little extra time perfecting my brows, adding some definition with shadows and sometimes playing around with false lashes for some added drama. 

  I was kindly given the opportunity to try falseeyelashes.co.uk’s own brand of 3D mink lashes*, just recently launched. I opted for 002, which has more length at the centre, great for achieving a doll-eyed look and perfect for more hooded eyes. I also went for 003, which has a more tapered end and various lash lengths that lifts the eye and gives rounded eyes more balance. After over a month of putting them to the test, it’s safe to say they have become my new favourite, go-to lashes for their fit, quality, longevity and value for money! 

Fit

It’s difficult for me to find lashes that comfortably fit my eye shape with them being quite curved, if that makes any sense. In other words, lash bands tend to be too short for me and they oftentimes lift at the edges and are hard to apply evenly on the eyelids. However, I’ve not had this issue with these, and they’re very comfortable and lightweight!  

Quality

The lash band is the perfect thickness - I find that too thin a band can be flimsy and too thick a band stiff. They're flexible enough to fit the natural curve of your eyelid and easily bounces back to shape once they’ve been removed after a long day. The lash hairs are super soft to the touch and incredibly wispy, giving a less perfect but more textured and flirty appearance which I love. I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of these lashes - and even more so by just how long-wearing and durable they are! 

Longevity

I have worn these lashes each time for up to 12 hours, which is entirely new to me - I oftentimes have to top-up my lash glue at the inner corners after just 3 or 4 hours which can be frustrating. I have found that they can even withstand strong winds, as the weather in London recently has been diabolical! I couldn’t believe it - this can also be down to the glue used (Eyelene Lash Studio Lash Adhesive), which I much prefer over the more popular Duo lash adhesive.    

Value for money

For £9.99, these eyelashes are great value for money, considering the number of wears I have gotten out of them (six!) and I can get away with plenty more before having to repurchase. If we break down the price per wear, I’ve spent approximately £1.66 per 12-hour day, which is amazing, especially considering that they’ve not reached the end of their lifeline just yet, so that figure can only decrease! It is however, very important that you look after any pair of falsies to expect the most out of them, which includes gently cleaning them after every use, removing all the extra bits of glue and any mascara, and properly storing them. As previously mentioned, I’m also really impressed with the quality of them, having tried eyelashes at an even higher price-point, and I will say that I won’t be shopping around any time soon! 

Here, I’m wearing 003 - this picture was taken at the end of a 10-hour day! The range at the moment is quite small, and I would love to see some more options in future. I’m pleased with my choices, 002 being suitable for a more doll-eyed look and 003 great for lifting and elongating the eyes. 

  *these false eyelashes were gifted to me in exchange for an honest review. I have used falseeyelashes.co.uk in the past to purchase other branded lashes and received amazing and speedy customer service! 

  They also have a 10% off discount code, quote “LASH10” at checkout and all orders are shipped via 1st class delivery for free, perfect for if you’re in need of some lovely lashes in a hurry!

[lovefrommaira]

It can be so easy to hoard new releases that end up collecting dust, which is something I’ve definitely been guilty of but I’m now trying to tackle this by being smarter with my spending - that is, ensuring I use up products before purchasing anymore or looking at several reviews to decide whether a product would bring any value to my collection. After really investigating all the items on my beauty wish list, I narrowed down to a handful of new makeup that I wanted to try. These products have been at the forefront of my dressing table for a few months now, so I’ve been able to really get stuck in and share more than my initial thoughts on each product! 

❥ Anastasia Beverly Hills NORVINA Palette

The beauty community seemed divided on their first impressions of this palette - it was either the most magical thing they’ve ever seen, or it didn’t include as many purples as they had hoped. The NORVINA palette really is just another neutral palette, but with a pink and purple twist. Did I wish it had a darker matte purple? Yes. However, I’ve not been able to set it down since I first got it and I didn’t realise how much I wanted a palette like this until I had the chance to create all the beautiful and effortless looks that this palette had to offer. The ABH formula is a dream to work with, and I’m siding with the most magical thing I’ve ever seen. I’m able to use this palette for fairy-like day looks and sultry night looks. My take may have been different if I also owned the SOFT GLAM palette, which although beautiful, I’m glad I waited a little and opted for this release instead because I personally much prefer the way these shades work on my skin tone. 

❥ Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in ‘Very Victoria’

It’s a challenge finding a ‘nude’ lip for myself - something about my skin complexion and my natural lip colour, I just can’t ever seem to find the perfect nude lipstick and have stuck to either rosy terracotta tones like Jeffree Star’s ‘Gemini’ or a very muted red like Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Bond Girl’. This purchase was a bit of a risk and I was torn between the popular 'Pillow Talk' and the sophisticated 'Very Victoria' - conclusion: I now cannot live without it, and I’m almost halfway through the bullet!

❥ Too Faced Just Peachy Mattes Palette

Too Faced really love their Peach collection and I’m not too mad at it. My Sweet Peach palette is well loved - the colours in that palette are really easy to work with and complement my brown eyes, the shade ‘bellini‘ being one of my favourites. I had the same expectations for the Just Peachy palette, and wasn’t disappointed. My one gripe with the Sweet Peach palette is how some of the matte shades can blend into oblivion and require quite some work to reach the opacity that I’m looking for. However, the Just Peachy Mattes offers higher quality matte shades that I enjoy using solo or in combination with the original peach palette. 

❥  Too Faced Peach Perfect Comfort Matte Foundation

I was a big fan of the Born This Way foundation, however I was disappointed by the shade range which meant that I could not truly enjoy it (before Jackie Aina collaborated with Too Faced to release more shades). As a result, I decided to give the Peach Perfect Comfort Matte a go - it’s a beautiful and buildable foundation and I absolutely love the ‘comfort matte’ finish, which brings this foundation quite close to my ultimate favourite, Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte. However, I’m not the biggest fan of the peach and sweet fig scent which is quite overpowering in my opinion. Nonetheless, I love how this foundation makes my skin look, so the scent is not a deal-breaker by any means and I do see myself repurchasing this in future. 

❥ Too Faced Peach Perfect Loose Setting Powder

My collection was in need of a loose setting powder - I’ve not tried the cult favourite Laura Mercier and I could not justify spending so much on a setting powder. The Peach Perfect powder hurts the bank a little less, and is exactly what I was looking for. I use this to set my under-eyes and t-zone, which leaves my skin looking super soft and bright, and has ensured that my foundation and concealer stays looking flawless throughout the day. 

❥ Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Concealer

My most favourite concealer used to be Bare Mineral’s Complete Coverage concealer, however, whilst I absolutely loved the serum formula, I wasn’t entirely happy with the shade range (only 6 shades!), nor was I pleased with the leaky packaging. I wanted to try out Tarte's Shape Tape, but it’s not the most accessible brand for me. Too Faced released a new multi-use sculpting concealer which rivalled Tarte’s, and I was sold. This concealer boasts full coverage whilst leaving the skin looking beautiful and healthy…what fine lines? what dry patches?

  ❥ Jeffree Star Velour Liquid Lipsticks in Thick as Thieves and Allegedly 

The formula of Jeffree Star’s liquid lipsticks are hands down my favourite - for me, they generally last up to 10 hours with little to no retouching (unless I eat something greasy!), are very pigmented, comfortable, and offer the most gorgeous shades I have ever seen. 'Thick as Thieves' (left) comes off as a darker ‘Gemini' on me, which I love, and ‘Allegedly’ (right) comes off as quite orange, which wasn’t what I expected and I’m not sure how I feel about it yet. The formula is consistent with the others that I’ve tried (‘Gemini', ‘Androgyny', ‘Wifey', ‘Calabasas', and 'I’m Shook’) and I hope to add some more to my collection. 

I’ve been eyeing some new holiday releases, and would love to try the Fenty Beauty Stunna lip paint, but until then, I’ll be continuing to enjoy these fab finds.

  Are you an impulse-buyer or do you like to hunt the internet for reviews before making your beauty purchases? 

[lovefrommaira]

“Darlings…” - Charlotte Tilbury products have always been towards the top of my beauty wish list. Everything is enticing, from the beautifully textured rose gold packaging and to how drop-dead-gorgeous and confident all of Charlotte’s models look - I was definitely sold. 

I decided to treat myself to the Matte Revolution lipsticks, particularly the shades ‘Bond Girl’ and ‘Walk of Shame’ - both so unique, and have quickly made it to my favourite lipsticks to wear when I want a more sophisticated look.   

The Packaging

You can’t go wrong with packaging like this, I’ll let the photos do the talking! 

The Shades

Bond Girl - “gorgeously chic natural berry shade, inspired by the Bond girls from Hall Berry to Barbara Bach to Olga Kurylenko” 

Bond Girl has to be my absolute favourite. I cannot describe how amazing this colour makes me feel - it’s a very unique shade unlike anything I have seen before, and it looks very different on different people. On me, it pulls a very muted red, giving that old hollywood, ‘vintage’ look. 

  Walk of Shame - “berry rose tinted shade, inspired by the timeless beauties of Christina Hendricks and Margot Robbie” 

Another gorgeous colour, resembling Bond Girl but slightly more richer and more of a statement. 

  The Formula

Charlotte Tilbury claims that these lipsticks, although matte, are hydrating - “cashmere-soft” and I am pleased to say that it does live up to that. I would describe these lipsticks to have a kind of “soft focus” finish, which gives off a very classy and youthful look. The bullet is also the perfect shape for a precise application. As far as lipsticks go, they are relatively long-wearing, where I would need to re-apply just once in the day - twice if I’ve eaten anything particularly greasy. They re-apply in a way that it looks as perfect as the initial application, which is amazing and a huge plus for me. Once worn off, the lipstick leaves behind a pretty even and light stain. 

  The Truth

At £24 a pop, are these lipsticks worth it? I’m tempted to purchase one or two more of these lipsticks in the future as a little treat. I’m always receiving compliments when I wear these shades, especially against my medium skin-tone. The formula is beautiful; matte but smooth and effortless, and I love them more for how these particular shades make me feel when I’m wearing them - confidence is priceless, right? However, they are in no way a "must-have”. I’d say that if you’re a makeup enthusiast and want to try out the brand, these lipsticks are a good starting point. These also make for a lovely luxurious gift, if that’s what you’re looking for. And if you’ve been on the hunt for a matte lipstick that isn’t drying in the slightest, then this may be the one for you. 

  What are your thoughts?

You may also enjoy: ► Flawless Face with Dior ► Fenty Beauty ► Anastasia Beverly Hills X Nicole Guerriero

[lovefrommaira]

I’d find myself sketching up a pretty good picture during my sixth form classes and university lectures, but that’s as far as I went. I started to miss experimenting more and creating final pieces so after I graduated, I took a trip to Hobbycraft and some local stores to purchase sketchbooks, pencils, blending sticks, watercolour paint, erasers and kneadable erasers…the whole “let’s get back to business” set. 

I was, of course, out of practice so I began re-learning how to feel in control and going over some basic techniques. YouTube has been my best friend - I would draw whilst watching videos with voiceovers of others drawing and that would help me feel more comfortable. Music, too. 

  I’m not particularly drawing to impress, and I feel a little shy sharing my measly sketchbook here, but I want to document any progress I make back to where I feel truly comfortable again. I’m simply drawing for fun, and it’s a really therapeutic experience for me. My favourite thing to draw has always been animals; I just love depicting the details in the eyes, fur, feathers. 

  I’m excited to continue on with my journey, filling up my sketchbooks and improving my skill as well as just enjoying the process of turning nothing into something. One piece of advice from many artists which I have found so useful to think back to during my daily work is not to be so hard on yourself and to treat a sketchbook as just that - a sketchbook. It can be difficult not to get a little frustrated over all that might look clumsy, silly, or lopsided, but it is all a part of your progress. And with art, it’s all about progress. 

Do you have a hobby that you’ve had to take a break from?

[lovefrommaira]

One of the major issues concerning endometriosis is that it takes an average of 7.5 years for a woman to receive diagnosis, despite actively seeking medical advice from doctors and that is unacceptable. It unfortunately took 7 years for myself to be diagnosed; many doctors would refuse to refer me to have scans and tests, telling me that “it’s just period pain”. As a result of this neglect, I was found to have severe endometriosis with my organs sticking together, resulting in further pain and symptoms that were present far beyond menstruation. I finally underwent a surgery at 20, and whilst I thought I was on my way to live a more ‘normal’ life, my chronic pain was back with a vengeance very soon after I recovered from surgery. This has also had an impact on my mental health, studies, and work; more recently being forced to leave a new job, and struggling to find a job ever since. 

  I want to talk about the discrimination that I experienced at the workplace which undoubtedly frustrated me to no end…it shouldn’t be this way. The way it made me feel after years of doctors, teachers and peers telling me I look fine, or that I’m just weak…there’s no excuse. I even had my accomplishments questioned by a doctor who received my CV for a job vacancy - “you’re achieving A’s, so how bad is it?” - curiosity, I suppose, but it sounded more like suspicion and I could not understand it... 

...There was a determination and zest in me during my teenage years. I missed a lot of school, and nobody could understand why, but I loved learning and I made sure to catch up and attempt to do some extra work from my bed. I worked hard. This is why I achieved A’s. I didn’t achieve my grades easily. I wish I could have answered in this way - instead, I was speechless, and I walked out of the office, losing that determination and zest I once had. And these qualities were tested and beaten away through my time in employment with each bit of ignorance causing me to lose hope in my future success. 

  “You look fine to me”…I wish I could have answered that I have good days and bad days, and you wouldn’t recognise me on my bad days. Today might be a good day. Or I might hide in the ladies’ crouched and crying for a while and when I’m back out, I’ll look fine to you. 

“Aren’t you taking your painkillers?”…I wish I could have answered that my painkillers do not magically and completely rid me of pain. I am doing everything I can to manage my symptoms.

“But you had surgery, you’re treated?”…I wish I could have answered that there is currently no cure for endometriosis; I have had one operation, and I have recently been told that I will need another. It’s a long-term and chronic illness for many of us. 

  “You’re just looking for sympathy, there’s nothing wrong with you”…I wish I could have answered that there’s more to people than meets the eye. Be more open and sensitive. This was said to me by a former colleague who found out that I was leaving my job due to health reasons; yes, I’m leaving my job because sympathy pays my bills. 

“Are you sure you’re not just starting your period?”…I wish I could have answered that this pain that I am feeling is not unusual for me to feel outside of my period. I can be surprised with it at any time, any day, without warning, or sometimes be stuck with it consistently for days. I will know if I am starting my period, and I sure hope I’m not seeing as part of my treatment is that my periods have been paused. 

Well that was cathartic. 

  I cannot stress enough how important it is that we continue to raise awareness about endometriosis - according to Endometriosis-UK, around 1.5 million women in the UK are currently living with the condition, therefore there is no reason why people should not be educated about it and learn ways in which they can support those affected. Due to personal experience, I’m especially concerned with the number of teachers and employers who either have no knowledge about endometriosis or hold the belief that it affects every woman in the same way. I’m also appalled by the number of doctors I have encountered that have a very narrow-minded approach to the condition. I want to see this change. Let’s break the taboo surrounding womens’ health that still exists today. Let’s talk, share, be open and persistent. Thank you for reading!

[lovefrommaira]

I’ve never been much of a fan of watches; I just didn’t see them as part of my style, and oftentimes thought they looked odd on my wrist. All of that changed when I was gifted an Olivia Burton watch by my best friend on my 21st birthday - she told me that she knew it was a bit of a ‘risk’, but the watch screamed me, and she couldn’t be more right. 

Olivia Burton watches embody fairytale fashion meets subtle luxe with intricate nature-inspired designs and ornate details. 

The rich red rose floral design contrasting with the black dial and straps makes this a unique statement piece. I’m not sure that this specific design is still available to purchase, however, there are many similar and equally gorgeous watches to choose from... 

…which means that I couldn’t help but to treat myself to another watch from Olivia Burton for my 22nd birthday - I think this is the start of something beautifully dangerous! 

  This lace detail black dial and rose gold mesh watch is such an interesting yet surprisingly versatile piece. I also love its petite design, although that does not take away from how striking this piece is. I love pairing this with a rose gold bow cuff from Ted Baker when I’m feeling a little extra. 

It’s safe to say that Olivia Burton has a comfortable spot in my jewellery box. Do you have a favourite accessory brand?

[lovefrommaira]

As someone who drinks 2L of water a day and still suffers from difficult dry skin (especially during the colder months!), it can be a tedious task finding the right skincare products to defeat the frustrating flakes and to reveal healthier looking, glowing skin. After trying out various products, I found that it’s layering my favourite moisturisers that has made a tremendous difference in the overall health and appearance of my skin. It may not be ideal for most people to add several more steps to their skincare routine, but I just haven’t found the one moisturiser for me - with so many different moisturisers on the market, why not combine the benefits of some of my favourites? 

1. Mario Badescu Facial Sprays

A deliciously easy way to add all the goodness from botanicals, I like to use Mario Badescu facial sprays to wake up the skin (or more accurate, wake up myself). You can find a more in-depth review of these skincare must-haves here.

  2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo(+) 

I’ve tried many acne treatments and noticed that a majority are geared towards the oily skin type. Some of these treatments can be very drying and recommended to be paired with a good moisturiser; whilst this has been found to be highly effective for a lot of people, many of these types of treatments are far too harsh for my dry/sensitive skin type and have even left me with temporary burns and scarring. The Effaclar Duo(+) is a wonderful product; an anti-blemish/spot treatment that is also very lightweight and hydrating. This cream has significantly improved the texture of my t-zone, especially when used religiously in combination with the Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Pads (another skincare staple!). 

  3. The Body Shop Hemp Heavy-Duty Face Protector

This has been an absolute saviour during the past months. This ‘face protector’ does exactly as the name suggests, moisturising the skin and leaving it protected from harsh weather conditions. It also really works to diminish flaky skin and relieve redness, revealing more radiant and supple skin. 

  4. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream 

This is an intensely hydrating yet lightweight and easily-absorbed moisturiser that has water retaining ingredients. It leaves my skin silky smooth, and I feel that it really locks in all the goodness from the other moisturisers, ensuring that I have that 'fresh faced' look long into the day. 

  If I’m going to be spending the day outside, I also ensure I wear the Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Defense SPF 50 - the final step to ensure maximum benefits. As a general rule of thumb, if you’re wanting to layer your skincare/moisturisers, it’s best to start with the most lightweight product first and also ensure that any targeted skincare products have top priority. If you like to include oils in your routine, you may want to layer this on top of water-based products rather than as a first step, or else you risk blocking the skin’s ability to absorb. 

What are your thoughts on layering skincare/moisturisers?

You may also enjoy: ► Mario Badescu Facial Sprays ► Bedside Beauty Essentials ► Kiehl's Ultra Facial Duo

[lovefrommaira]

Facial sprays are a quick and easy way to give your skin a little TLC, no matter what time of day it is. If you’ve seen my “bedside beauty essentials” post, you’ll know that I like to create my own simple concoction of rosewater and glycerin which has done wonders for my skin and is a relatively inexpensive skincare gem to add to your routine. However, if you’re just not a DIY person, Mario Badescu offer facial sprays which are packed with even more deliciously beneficial ingredients including aloe leaf juice, cucumber water, and other leaf/fruit extracts. 

Facial Spray with Aloe Cucumber and Green Tea This mixture of botanicals has really helped to achieve more healthy looking and radiant skin, and I like to spray this before or after layering my moisturisers (a post on that soon!) - that may sound like over-kill to some but when your skin is borderline reptilian, you can never be too safe! I have to say that this one is my favourite because it’s quickly absorbed by the skin.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater This one smells amazing and I think I can attribute that to the rosewater - however, it is a little on the sticky side if you get too spray-happy and a lot heavier, therefore one spritz is more than enough for me. Nonetheless, this one is great for dry skin and I like to use this one before bed. 

  I think my favourite thing about facial sprays is the multi-purpose aspect of it:  ✿ Hydrates the skin ✿ Adds radiance to tired, dull or stressed skin ✿ Can be used to prep and prime the skin ✿ Refreshing and cooling boost throughout the day, especially during the hot summer months ✿ Use to achieve a dewy finish to makeup ✿ Instantly fixes cakey foundation and helps to blend before setting spray ✿ Intensifies eyeshadow pigments  All whilst looking after your skin’s moisture levels, defeating active acne, and combatting redness! 

What do you think of facial sprays - a useful invention or a useless fad?

[lovefrommaira]

Today we're talking about loving your body, and self-acceptance. Grab a cuppa because this one is a little lengthy!

Young girls and women everywhere struggle with body image and general appearance, and it’s interesting to see that whilst we share similar stories in pursuing self-love, we do not share the same body type or facial features. I appreciate that our male counterparts can also find the teenage years and beyond a difficult time in this way too, so don’t worry, I see you! 

It’s upsetting how so many of us can find it a challenge to marvel at someone else’s beauty, without downplaying our own. There is definitely no official guide of what is beautiful - beauty comes in all shapes, colours, and sizes, and is subjective; “…in the eyes of the beholder”. We also see this in the media, where although a certain trait or body type is celebrated, the standards are constantly changing (think slim-curvy, tweezed brows-natural brows) therefore we should not pay them as much attention as we may do but celebrate our diversity.

How can we achieve a more positive outlook on body image and external appearance?

First, I would make note that with all the pressures of today, it is not unusual to struggle with body image. You’re not the only one, and sometimes that can be comforting, but that does not take away from how important your own situation is.

Next, I think it’s important to highlight that there's only one you. We can do our very best to improve the way we look, but we can never become somebody else. Therefore, accept you for you. With that being said, accepting yourself doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to adore every single thing about yourself. I think some people fall victim to the misconception that if you ‘change’ something about yourself, you were unhappy with yourself and that’s not necessarily true. For example, I accept that I have some acne scarring although I’m not fond of them, however, I have the option to try reduce the appearance of these scars if I wish. If this does not work for me, that is okay, life goes on. I think It’s okay to have an ideal image for yourself. Another example is, my natural hair colour is very dark, and I have no problems with that. However, I tend to get it dyed to add some dimension and lighter colours. Despite this, I have showcased my natural colour too, feeling no less beautiful. The key here is, being okay with the way you already are, being allowed to have a preference, and doing things for yourself.

I bring myself to always try to see the positives. This is not easy, and this may have you sounding a little ‘cuckoo’ sometimes, but it helps a lot of people when they push themselves to see their perceived flaws from a different light. Scarring and stretch marks, for example, are just markings of your journey and experiences here on Earth. They can mark child birth, healthy weight gain, surgery success, a silly childhood moment. Some others may have a more traumatic backstory, and you have survived it.

I find that my friends or family have liked something about me that I did not see beauty in, and in the same way, I love certain features or things about people that they are surprised to hear.

All in all, there is something that you must remind yourself: our bodies are more than just the external. It is easy to forget this, as we are constantly exposed to our features and physique at every shop window and mirror we pass by. Our internal body does so much, every single moment, of every single day, to keep us alive in its complex ways. The least we could do is look after it, pamper it, and be thankful for it. It definitely does not deserve such harsh criticism. It’s also important to note that your mind is a powerful contributor to your beauty.

In the end, I have good days, and I have bad days. I guess a big reason for wanting to post this piece, lies in my own need to be reminded of the bigger picture every once in a while. This post was something I had saved on my laptop and read to myself several times now; it made me feel better when I was having one of those bad days, so maybe it can make someone else feel better too. If you have been struggling with loving your body, I hope this helps you in some way, and I wish you all the best in your journey to discovering self-love, acceptance, and confidence. :)

You may also enjoy: ♡ Relieving stress ♡ Mental health ♡ Pathways to Happiness

[lovefrommaira]

A beauty from Barbados, Rihanna has taken the world by storm with the release of her cosmetics line, Fenty Beauty. I was really excited to visit Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge to browse the line, and hopefully go home with some goodies.

I arrived at Harvey Nichols just before opening time and waited in the queue for an hour before I could explore the Fenty Beauty counter - definitely wasn’t expecting that as it was long after the initial release. However, It was overall a very pleasant experience - I was with my mother and sister, and we were provided with a personalised service; I’m not sure if it’s always like this, but I thoroughly enjoyed it despite usually preferring to be left to explore by myself. The girls were so much fun, very patient, and clearly knew their stuff! It was definitely different from the service I received from some other high-end brands, so this was refreshing to see and left me with a positive lasting impression.

Now, the products. The packaging is sleek, minimal and stylish, with a luxurious weight to it and I think that everything is fairly priced given the quality. 

Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation (£26) With an initial release of 40 foundation shades, many people including myself were confident that they may finally find their perfect match, especially as Rihanna paid close attention to the issue of undertones. Of course, some other brands offer a vast range of foundation shades, however in my personal experience, many have left me with an ashy or even orange finish. I was also thrilled to see that people with richer and darker complexions had more colour choices, because let’s be honest, two or three ‘dark’ colours is just not diverse enough (can I also emphasise initial release!). I watched many YouTubers warning that the foundation may oxidise, and the lovely ladies at Fenty Beauty were also aware of this so we tried out some shades and waited for them to set and see what they looked like in natural lighting. I opted for 290 and it’s safe to say that it is a perfect match. As someone with dry and sensitive skin, I usually favour more dewy foundations however I was pleasantly surprised with the way this foundation sits on my skin. It is definitely a matte finish, though I would describe it as a natural matte as opposed to a completely one-dimensional cakey type of matte. This foundation looks phenomenal whether I apply it with a makeup brush or damp beauty blender, and it is the kind of foundation that sets itself so I can skip using powder. It lasts absolutely all day - I’m talking 13 hours of coverage, with limited shine and no lines/caking/gathering. On some days, the foundation can be a little drying, especially with my skin type during the winter months, so I like to mix it with more hydrating foundations. 

Overall, I’m very happy with the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear foundation, and can definitely see myself repurchasing this as soon as I’m all out. 

Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter: Trophy Wife (£26)

This was a last-minute purchase - literally, I asked the lovely lady serving me to throw that in the bag just before she took payment. Now, when I saw this online, I wasn’t too keen on it and I thought “I would never wear this”. It was too yellow-gold, glittery, pigmented. Everyone working at Fenty Beauty, of all different skin tones, flaunted Trophy Wife in some way...as an eyeshadow, inner corner/browbone highlight, dusted on their lips, or popped on their cheekbones and it looked gorgeous, quickly changing my mind to “I can make this work!”. I think the trick for me with this is a little goes a long way and this has now easily become one of my favourite things because it is more versatile and wearable than I assumed. I honestly cannot wait for Summer to just douse myself in this.  

Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter: Mean Money Hu$tla Baby (£26) A more subtle yet equally beautiful highlighter, this duo was too beautiful not to take home - I mean, look at it! I think it’s a must-have for someone who is looking to treat themselves to a more high-end highlighter, especially if they currently do not have many options in their collection. 

Pictures don’t do these justice - I mean the way they catch the light is just beautiful! Overall, I was very impressed with the makeup range from Fenty Beauty, and I’m now eyeing the new Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipsticks and Stunna Lip Paint!

[lovefrommaira]

After an unplanned blogging break, I’m back with fresh new ideas and a drive to make the most out of my blog this year, to evolve it into something more, and to make it mine. 

  Now, let me explain myself. My blog is mine, but at some point I began to lack the motivation to write and publish. After some consideration, I realised that as a beauty blogger who likes to review products, I felt a constant pressure to stay on top of what was considered relevant and so it took the joy out of the testing and editing phases. Although I love sharing my thoughts on new releases, I felt rushed, overwhelmed, and that decreased the quality of my writing where it just became repetitive. One thing in particular that really affected my drive was that by the time I managed to save some money to treat myself to some products from Fenty Beauty, I was really excited to write a post about it but the blogosphere and youtube seemed 'over-saturated', some people even expressing their annoyance at the million reviews that plagued their screens. 

  I’ve now learnt that whilst there may be many of us writing about similar things, we’re still unique individuals with our own unique voice and perspectives and that’s something to be respected. So I’m still going to publish my Fenty Beauty post many months after the release, ha. 

Another issue I was facing was the desire to write about more than skincare and cosmetics; I wanted to write about anything and everything but I was afraid that straying from a ‘niche’ would have a negative impact on my blog. Once again, my blog was mine, but I wasn’t really owning it and doing what I really wanted to do with it. I decided to take the plunge and slowly started to introduce non-beauty posts: "endometriosis: my story” and “reverse bucket list”, which were to my surprise, really popular posts and ones that I really enjoyed writing. 

  I now realise that my blog is my little corner of the web, and I can do what I want with it because at the end of the day, it’s a hobby to me and I should enjoy it! Of course, having an audience is important because who doesn’t want to know that their work is having an impact/is appreciated? But I want my audience to be people who genuinely love my blog for what it is. 

I hope 2018 will be a better year for me and for my blog. I’m excited to write more, improve my photography, and share more. 

  Until next time,

[lovefrommaira]

I’ve been thoroughly enjoying this palette, and by the looks of it, I’m not alone. As a result, I’ll keep this one short and sweet. 

I love the whole concept of this eyeshadow palette - modern renaissance. When I look at this beauty, I think of the likes of Raphaello and burnt oranges, Da Vinci and neutrals, with the modern twist of romantic pinks and stunning shimmers. 

When I went to swatch Primavera, as I was so drawn to it, I couldn’t help but to let out a scream; it was so smooth, so buttery, I was tempted to sink my finger into the entire pan but I was not about to star in a tragedy. That’s when I knew, this is going to be my favourite palette ever. And let me tell you, pictures don’t do it justice. 

I’m somewhat of a beginner when it comes to eyeshadows, but very quickly, I grew bored of the neutrals and golds. This palette was a little intimidating, especially with a shade like ‘Love Letter’, but I was excited to get my hands on it and get to work, like a true Renaissance artist. 

  The shades are a lot easier to work with than I assumed, seamlessly blending unlike any other eyeshadow I’ve used and making this beginner look like a pro. It seems difficult to find mattes that aren’t patchy and shimmers that aren’t chunky, but Anastasia Beverly Hills seem to have created a perfect palette that I’d recommend to everyone; the colours look gorgeous on people of various skin tones and can be used to create subtle daily looks or more dramatic pieces of art. 

One thing I will say is that the eyeshadows are on the powdery side, being so full of pigment. This does not bother me, seeing how well the eyeshadows blend and last on the eyelids, so I’m happy to dust away any fallout, especially as it is not so excessive. You only really need a small amount of product, so I see this palette lasting a very long time regardless. 

It initially hurt to part with £41 but I honestly have no regrets because it has quickly become a firm favourite, I highly recommend this beautiful palette! Have you tried the Modern Renaissance palette? What are your thoughts?

You may also enjoy: ► Anastasia Beverly Hills X Nicole Guerriero Glow Kit ► Morphe Bronzed Mocha Palette ► Too Faced Sweet Peach Palette

[lovefrommaira]

It can be a challenge finding the perfect products to create that beautiful canvas for your makeup. My main concerns are finding a foundation that works well with my dry skin, and has the ability to cover redness and hyper-pigmentation, as well as lasting throughout the day, and of course, ensuring that it is available in my shade. That sounds like a lot of boxes to tick, but I’m certain that I’ve found my flawless face, thanks to Dior. 

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the gorgeous packaging!

The DIORSKIN FOREVER foundation provides a luminous matte finish, ensuring that your skin looks radiant and healthy whilst securing a light to medium coverage throughout the day. At first, I wasn’t so sure about the coverage of this foundation, but quickly realised that this layers wonderfully. I do prefer to use a beauty blender when I apply foundations, however, when I’m having a particularly bad breakout, I like to go in with a small brush and stipple on another layer where I need it. This allows my skin to look as natural as possible, with extra coverage only where I need it. 

  Giiiirl let me tell you, I’ve received so many compliments since I started using this foundation!

I usually shy away from matte foundations, because I’ve had negative experiences in the past with patchiness and emphasising dry areas. However, I am pleased to say that I don’t have to worry about that with this foundation; it is very forgiving, and lasts a typical 10-hour day, with minimal shine. It also ensures that the rest of my makeup stays in place. 

To add a little more luminosity, a kind of ‘lit from within’ look, I like to use the DIORSKIN NUDE AIR LUMINISER powder in 001. This highlighter is very different from any other I own in that it is not glittery but consists of a very finely milled pigment that is amazing for those with textured or ageing skin. It can be used as a light touch of radiance, or layered for a more striking highlight that still has an imperceptible beginning and end. 

This duo will leave you with beautifully photogenic skin that will also look great in your day-to-day life,  meaning it is very versatile and ideal for the workplace or a wedding. 

Do you have a makeup splurge that you’d recommend in a heartbeat?

You may also enjoy: ► High End Makeup Haul ► Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

[lovefrommaira]

We spend a lot of time talking about our dreams, thinking about all the things that we want to achieve and experience in life. I recently came across the idea of a reverse bucket list on a few blogs. This is where you celebrate everything that you have conquered thus far and I thought this was a wonderful idea - it really puts everything into perspective. 

I’ve compiled a little list of some of the things I have had the pleasure of experiencing. It’s not until you actually note all of this down do you realise how blessed you truly are! 

♡ I have gained a university degree in something I have loved studying (BSc Psychology), overcoming many obstacles along the way.

You have to get at least one hat throwing shot.

♡ I’ve experienced an amazing encounter with dolphins, my favourite animal since the age of five.

♡ I visited Dubai and stayed at the beautiful Atlantis hotel - twice!

♡ I took a ride in a helicopter, touring the breathtakingly beautiful Palm Jumeirah from above.

♡ I’ve watched the sunset from the beach, and it was the most calming experience.

Some snaps from my holiday in 2013.

♡ When we moved houses, I had the opportunity to design my room however I wanted and slowly made it happen.

It’s my favourite place to be. ♡ I’ve thrown a mini surprise birthday for my mum...something I’ve always wanted to do and her reaction makes me want to do it again, and again, and again.

♡ I have had the opportunity to see so many live theatre performances, it’s something I hope to be able to do for years to come. 

I wouldn’t have been able to have these experiences without the generosity of my school. ♡ I’ve expanded my mini library of books to over 200 - you can never read too much!

Can you guess my favourite genre? I hope you enjoyed getting to know me a little better! Do we share anything on your reverse or future-oriented bucket lists?

[lovefrommaira]

Gemini - “a terra-cotta warm-toned nude” This has become my go-to nude lip. I think it complements my skin tone really well and pulls together virtually any makeup look. 

The scent of this one smells familiar. I wasn’t expecting it to be quite so strong but it’s not unpleasant by any means…a little like bubblegum, I think? The liquid lipstick is insanely pigmented and also a lightweight formula, so I don’t need to dip for more product - it’s easy to disperse across the lips and get an even finish. 

The applicator is quite interesting. It’s very soft and fills the natural curve of my lips. I know some people don’t like how fluffy it is as it can be difficult to get a precise line, but I personally do not have this issue. 

One problem I have had with the shade Gemini is that it has leaked a little, as pictured. I’m not sure why that is, because I store these liquid lipsticks upright and make sure to close the lid properly. The packaging is great, because of the chunky lid which means that you get a good grip (and not accidentally have the wand flying out of your hand…maybe that’s happened to me, maybe not, moving on…), and also has a ‘lock’ mechanism, where you can feel when the lid has completely closed. 

Pictured above are the shades (in order): Gemini, Androgyny and I’m Shook. You can see it’s a very thin liquidy formula.

Androgyny - “a sultry plum mauve” I love a good mauve, and this one looks gorgeous and I can see it looking especially stunning on people with deeper skin tones. 

Surprisingly, these liquid lipsticks do not dry out my lips at all. That being said, I do like to exfoliate and moisturise my lips regularly, so I’m not sure how forgiving these really are. I have also tried to layer this to see what happens, and it’s safe to say that you can get away with doing so, although I’m not sure you’d need to. 

If you’re put off by artificial fragrance in cosmetics, you’ll be happy to know that for whatever reason, Androgyny does not have any particular scent to it. 

I’m Shook - “a beautiful medium-toned burnt coral” This shade looks slightly different on different people; I think, it’s quite a unique coral shade and am so happy because this makes me feel like a queen. This one smells a little like nothing, but also a little like chemicals, though it’s not very noticeable unless you’re searching for a scent like I am for this review, haha. The staying power is incredible, where I’ve gone a full 10 hour day still looking cute.   

Pictured above: Gemini, Androgyny and I’m Shook when dried down.

Overall, I absolutely love the formula of these liquid lipsticks; it’s quite possibly my favourite out of what I have in my little collection. At £16, I think it’s reasonably priced when compared to other products in the market, but of course it’s also relative to how much you could personally spend on makeup. The fact that these are also cruelty-free makes me happy. I know some people have described the packaging is ‘childish’, but honestly I think it’s fun; it’s just makeup!

Have you tried Jeffree Star’s velour liquid lipsticks, and what are your thoughts? Tell me your favourite shade!

You may also enjoy: ► Mouthy By Megan Lip Kit ► NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams ► Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipsticks

[lovefrommaira]

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but bedtime is the most important time of the day for your skin and body to renew itself. There are a few beauty bits that I like to keep nearby, and they have made a world of difference to how I feel the next morning.   

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate This stuff is magic in a bottle. I apply two to three drops to my face, giving myself a little massage to increase blood circulation. This little gem is packed with beneficial ingredients such as evening primrose and lavender essential oil. It’s a lightweight facial oil that aims to repair, replenish, and radiate. I always wake up to fresh, bouncy, healthy-looking skin that gives me that confidence boost in leaving the house without any makeup. 

Rosewater and Glycerin Facial Spray I like to mix rosewater with some glycerin in a spray bottle to create my very own multipurpose facial spray. I use this to prep and prime my skin for foundation, to help blend my makeup before using a setting spray, and to refresh my skin. The rosewater helps with acne and redness, whilst the glycerin helps to maintain the skin’s moisture levels, which has done wonders for my dry skin. 

Burt’s Bees Honey Lip Balm I cannot go to sleep without applying a generous layer of lip balm, especially as I’m always wearing liquid lipsticks which can dry out the lips in the long-term. I used to be prone to suffering from cracked lips during the colder months, but since religiously applying lip balm every night in addition to the mornings, I haven’t had that problem. 

The Body Shop’s Almond Hand and Nail Cream Your hands go through so much during the day, and it’s easy to neglect them. I particularly like the hand creams from The Body Shop, especially the hemp for hands that are in desperate need for help, and the argan oil because well, I like argan oil. The almond one is just as good, and I also like to use it anywhere else that may need some extra love. 

Happiness Journal “This is not a beauty item” I hear you cry. Oh but on the contrary, beauty starts from within and it’s really important for psychological wellbeing to give some time to being mindful and to express gratitude. I like to keep a ‘happiness journal’, where I record a pleasant moment that I would like to remember, no matter how big or small that event may be. Some days, I don’t have anything significant to record, and other days I may have about five different things I want to highlight. 

Those are the most important things on my bedside table, besides a good novel and a photo frame with my role model (my mum, who I’ve strategically covered here for her privacy, haha). What are some of your bedside beauty essentials? 

[lovefrommaira]

Another day, another beauty collaboration. Anastasia Beverly Hills have released yet another glow kit, this time with Nicole Guerriero, and it looks b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l. 

This is my first glow kit from ABH; although the others are just as pretty, I couldn’t justify spending £40 on shades that were in my opinion, very similar. However, this glow kit showcases six highlighters of various shades, and I thought “I have to have it!”: 

♡ Kitty Kat - Baby pink with platinum glitter ♡ Forever Young - rosy taupe with silver glitter ♡ Daydream - peachy coral with gold glitter ♡ Forever Lit - platinum with a bluey lavender reflect ♡ Glo Getter - champagne gold with rose gold reflect ♡ 143 - deep rose gold with bronze reflect 

The packaging is so cute, pictures don’t do it justice at all. it’s a baby pink covered in tiny flecks of iridescent glitter, yet is smooth and slightly plush to the touch. It feels expensive for what is essentially just cardboard packaging. Although the highlighters swatch so pigmented, it is more buildable from moderate to extraterrestrial, depending on how you like your highlight. However, this is not a finely milled highlighter by any means; there are noticeable glitters, with some shades (Daydream and Forever Lit) having more glitter fallout than others, but this can be quickly cleaned up with a clean makeup brush. For this reason, I wouldn't recommend this highlight for people with particularly textured or mature skin, or for anyone who simply doesn't like glitter; it can emphasise problem areas if you're not careful. Quick tip: I like to spray my face with a mix of rosewater and glycerin to help the highlighter blend into the skin where there are no harsh lines and it helps make the glitter less noticeable but the pigment itself pop. It’s so hard to pick a favourite out of this palette, but I have been using Forever Young a lot. I particularly enjoy how versatile this palette is, and that you can create custom shades by mixing some together. Forever Lit is far too light for me, but I like dusting this lightly on top of Daydream or the more golden shades. Not only are these gorgeous highlighters, but I love popping them on the eyelids and inner corners too as though they are eyeshadows. These last pretty much all day, so you don't have to worry about losing your glow halfway through the day. 

I’m so happy with this palette. Not that I needed anymore highlighters, but I will definitely get a lot of uses out of this one. 

  I purchased this glow kit for £39 from the UK ABH website; it’s limited edition so get your hands on it while you can!