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MONTHLY FAVOURITES

AUGUST 2019 FAVOURITES

Hey Everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well! I’m still stunned that summer is almost over. It feels like it took forever to get here and now it’s already coming to an end! Since moving back home, I’ve been working hard on lots of new content for my blog and for instagram – don’t forget to follow me over there too! You can find all my social media linked at the end of every blog post. I’m back with another favourites post for you and I’ve included a real variety of things this month – makeup, clothes, skincare, a game (I know) and a TV series. Let’s take a look at what I’ve included, shall we?

*This post contains affiliate links and gifted items


Reflex Light Palette – Pixi

I’ve already written about this palette here, so I won’t go into too much detail. This palette is amazing! At first I wasn’t sure about an entire palette of just shimmer shades, and then I swatched them. These are potentially the most pigmented shimmers I’ve ever used. This is the kind of product that makes you do a double take when you use it. Also, when I wear any of the shades, people always ask me what I’ve got on my eyes so I can’t be the only one that’s mindblown by them. I cannot recommend this palette enough.


CYCLING-STYLE SHORTS

I honestly never thought I would jump on the whole cycling shorts bandwagon but here I am. In fact I’ve leapt and I am now fully on board and here’s why. I’m a baggy t-shirt kind of girl and these shorts go perfectly with anything oversized, longline or baggy. They’re so comfy and given that they’re also black, they go with just about everything. I’ve paired them with crop tops too and they actually look really cute! On a more nerdy note, they’re actually really practical (don’t laugh at me). When my boyfriend and I went to Paris during that ungodly heatwave in July, I literally wore cycling shorts every day. I even wore them to Disneyland because I knew they would be the comfiest option plus they kept me cool! I highly recommend grabbing a pair if you’re unsure. These were ยฃ1.50 in Primark!

P.S. I’ve written an entire post about this entire outfit as part of my new “Updating My Wardrobe” series here!


Tea Tree Skin Clearing Clay Mask – The Body Shop

Since going on holiday, my skin has improved a lot and I feel a lot more confident without makeup. However, this doesn’t mean that I’m not still battling with the occasional blemish. The trouble with a lot of anti-blemish skincare is that it can be quite drying and during the summer, that is not something that my skin needs. This tea tree mask is amazing at targeting spots whilst also not drying my skin out – the perfect combination! It stops my spots getting angry or irritated and usually they’re gone the next day.


Bye-Bye Miss American Dry Moisturiser – Anatomicals

I’ve spent a lot of time in the sun this summer, particularly when I went to Paris during their record breaking heatwave (it reached the mid 40s) and then again in Spain where of course, it was also very scorchio (The Fast Show should have taught you that reference). Since arriving back in the UK, I’m doing my best to keep my skin hydrated and moisturised at all times as firstly, I need this tan for as long as possible and secondly, it definitely needs some TLC after catching all of those rays. This moisturiser from Anatomicals is one of my absolute favourite body care products. It smells of cherries (one of my favourite scents) but it also sinks in really quickly without leaving me feeling sticky for the rest of the day. You also get a lot (200ml) in one tube so it lasts such a long time!



Disney Magic Kingdoms

Yes I might be 21 and sharing a game in my monthly favourites but I’m okay with that! I went to Disneyland last month with my boyfriend and once we’d come home, it felt like I’d just dreamt it all and none of it had actually happened. In an attempt to stop the withdrawal symptoms, I downloaded the Disney Magic Kingdoms game and have been totally addicted ever since. When I say “addicted” I mean I spend hours on it! Basically the aim is to create your own little park by unlocking characters and completing quests. It’s surprisingly entertaining!


Naturally Radiant Hot Cloth Cleanser – Superdrug

I’ve already written a blog post on this skincare range (check it out here) so I’ll keep it short and sweet. This is one of the best cleansers I own. It smells like a spa day, it feels soft and gentle and it takes my makeup off in seconds. I don’t use makeup wipes because they just made my skin worse and they’re also terrible for the environment as they’re not biodegradable. I switched to using cleansers and it’s been a total game changer. My skin barely has any breakouts anymore and it looks so much better than it did before I started using this product. I’ve been using it a lot this summer as it’s so hydrating and literally leaves my skin glowing. I love it!


13 Reasons Why – Season 3

I know this is a controversial series. Some say it’s too triggering and some say it needs to be seen and heard. I actually agree with the latter. Personally, there’s a lot in this series that I can relate to and that makes some scenes quite difficult to view but I think I would rather see a TV series exploring these issues than ignoring them. The series always has trigger warnings and they’ve even created a website where viewers can find local resources and helplines. They even have a mini series called “Beyond The Reasons” which allows the cast and the team behind the series to explain why they made certain creative decisions as well as discussing their own feelings on the themes explored within the show. I’m really enjoying it and I think they’ve made a lot of effort to keep a very important conversation going, as well as remaining sensitive and responsible with their content.

The cast are incredible, given that most of them are young adults playing extremely intense roles. When they’re being interviewed, you can see just how invested they are in their roles. Some of them deliver such powerful and convincing performances that, as a viewer, I often wonder if they have actually been through something similar to their character. It’s just a very real and gritty series that I think lots of people needed. I’m just so impressed with the whole thing.


What have your favourite things been this month? I’d love to hear about them so let me know in the comments! Iโ€™ve put links to all of my social media down below and Iโ€™d love it if you would come and say hi!

N xxxx

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BEAUTY BIRCHBOX

BIRCHBOX AUGUST 2019: SUMMER LOVIN’ – REVIEW

Hey Everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well! I’m currently enjoying my last day in Spain before coming back home and I know the holiday blues are waiting for me back at Gatwick. However, as much as I’ve had the nicest time relaxing, I’m also ready to get back to work and start blogging! Speaking of which, today I have a lovely new Birchbox review for you. Before I begin, Iโ€™ve included some information about what Birchbox actually is, how much is costs and all that jazz below! If you already know all of this, feel free to carry on scrolling. 

About Birchbox โ€“

Birchbox is a UK beauty subscription service that sends beauty boxes to their subscribers containing 5 goodies every month. You donโ€™t have to worry about lifelong commitments or contracts. In fact, you can cancel anytime with a monthly subscription โ€“ no fuss whatsoever! The monthly subscription costs only ยฃ10 per month plus ยฃ2.95 P&P! You can edit your beauty profile on their site to ensure you get sent products that are suitable for your skin/hair type and personal preferences. Birchbox is great for discovering new brands and products. I have been subscribed to Birchbox for years and I still look forward to receiving their boxes every month. Iโ€™ve gone on to buy lots of the things Iโ€™ve been sent because I have loved them so much. Every box you receive is beautifully packaged, some months are designed and inspired by artists and companies. I use some of the boxes to store makeup in too!

Get your Birchbox now! (affiliate link)


This month’s box is about all things summer; the warmth, the longer days and the contagious breezy cheeriness that comes with it. They couldn’t have picked a better design for this box, it really captures the vibrance of the season. It also gives me some strong Camden Market vibes, I love it! I’m glad we’ve gone back to the usual drawer design as I was not a fan of last month’s… I tend to find that summer beauty boxes can be quite hit and miss. For example, sometimes you can be sent something like fake tan (I don’t use it) or a garish shade of nail varnish that you’d rather burn than use. However, I thought I’d still give it a go so let’s see what’s inside shall we? RRPs correspond to full-size items at birchbox.co.uk/shop.


ModelCo – Mermaid Glow Highlighter (Full Size) – RRP ยฃ10

We’ve received a few ModelCo products and I’ve loved them all so far. I’m aware that they’re also becoming a bigger and better brand by the minute, frequently collaborating with supermodels and fashion icons such as Hailey Baldwin and Karl Lagerfeld. I did have high hopes for this product when I opened up my August box however, I’m not sure if it lives up to those expectations. I’m all for colourful makeup, but I’m just not feeling a rainbow highlighter. I would have preferred a single colour rather than this bold combination. In the swatches, you can see how it has a very cool undertone to it and I just think it looks really strange on the cheekbones. I don’t fancy looking a sickly shade of green all day nor do I want to look freezing cold and blue.


NUXE – Detoxifying and Glow Mask – RRP ยฃ19.50

I absolutely love NUXE as a brand. I’ve been using their skincare for years and I’m yet to be disappointed by anything. These guys create eco-friendly jars for their products to reduce their impact on the environment which spares almost 1,500 trees per year! We need more brands doing things like this please! I have a bit of a thing for face masks too – I’ve actually written a post called “5 Face Masks You Need in Your Life” so check that out if you’re mask obsessed like me! This Detoxifying and Glow mask from NUXE promises to purify and illuminate the skin. It features an interesting combination of rose and charcoal. I like to apply this when my skin is looking dull and lifeless to give it the boost that it needs. It leaves my skin looking smoother and brighter. It’s a yes from me!


Balance Me – Hyaluronic Plumping Mist – RRP ยฃ18

Balance Me are one of my favourite brands to use when I really want to treat myself – especially my skin! I didn’t even know this product existed in their range so I was really pleased to find it in my August Birchbox! This mist contains hyaluronic acid, which is known for its hydrating and reviving properties. It can be used under or over makeup (love that), leaving your skin looking brighter and healthier. I’ve definitely noticed a difference in how my skin looks, it’s plumper and so much more hydrated! I’ve been giving myself a spritz on holiday and it’s helped to cool my skin down and soothe it after days spent in the sun.


Anatomicals – Scrub Tropicana Coconut Body Scrub – RRP ยฃ1.50 (Full Size)

I’ve always had a bit of an obsession with Anatomicals. I’ve actually featured them in quite a few posts, most recently in my August Favourites! I love their packaging, I love their witty sense of humour and I love the scents of their products. This Coconut scrub is gentle but also effective in exfoliating and removing dead skin. It’s also really hydrating! My skin felt so soft and smooth after I used this for the first time, I will absolutely be purchasing this once I’ve run out!


Spectrum Collections – Marble Small Fan Brush MA10 (Full Size) – RRP ยฃ4.99

Firstly, I love Spectrum Collections, their brushes are pretty, fabulous and affordable. Now, I appreciate that our boxes are quite small and there are limits as to what will and won’t fit inside. There’s nothing wrong with the brush, it’s just I prefer normal sizes. Even on holiday, I’ve brought my normal makeup brushes with me and ironically left the “travel-friendly” ones back at home. Maybe I’m just being ultra-fussy but I’m just not a fan (pun unintended). Either way, the brush is still high quality and very pretty to look at. It’s great for applying highlighter precisely as it doesn’t pick up too much product. Yes, I would’ve preferred a bigger product but I can’t actually fault the brush itself!


Overall, I’m happy with the August box! I definitely would change the highlighter if possible and I would have gone for a larger makeup brush but when it comes to a subscription box – you never know what you’re going to get! I’m always prepared to receive something that I’m not a huge fan of. I do, however, love everything else! The skincare pieces are definitely the strongest products this month, especially when NUXE and Balance Me are involved! I know I will get lots of use out of these products and I will definitely be repurchasing some of them too. I was also impressed that we received 3 full size products this month! The value of the products inside the box, altogether comes to ยฃ53.99. We received a lot of budget-friendly things this month which explains why the total value is lower than usual. Are you subscribed to Birchbox or any other beaut boxes? Let me know in the comments. 


Want to try Birchbox for yourself? Click here and use my referral link to get ยฃ5 off your first box! Also, get a FREE full-size dusky pink Ofra Liquid Lipstick (worth ยฃ16!) with your box. Use code LAGUNA.

N xxxx

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BEAUTY BIRCHBOX

BIRCHBOX AUGUST 2018: ETSY โ€“ REVIEW

Hey Everyone,

Of course, I’m back with another Birchbox review! I really love writing these posts as it gives me a chance to zone out and talk about beauty products which is my favourite thing to do! I’ve been subscribed to Birchbox for such a long time that opening and reviewing their boxes is just part of my routine now! Are any of you subscribed to a beauty box? As usual, I’ve included lots of information below about what Birchbox offers etc. but if you’re just here for the review, keep scrolling!

Birchboxย isย a UK beauty subscription service that sends beauty boxes to their subscribers containing 5 goodies every month. You donโ€™t have to worry about lifelong commitments or any contracts, you can cancel anytimeย with a monthly subscription โ€“ no fuss whatsoever! The monthly subscription costs only ยฃ10 per month! You can edit your beauty profile on their site in order to ensure you get sent products that are suitable for your skin/hair type and personal preferences. Birchbox is so great for discovering new brands and products. I have been subscribed to Birchbox for over a year now and I look forward to receiving their boxes every month.ย Iโ€™ve gone on to buy lots of the things Iโ€™ve received because I have loved them so much. Every box you receive is beautifully packaged, some months are designed and inspired by artists and companies. I use some of the older boxes to store makeup in too as the designs are too pretty to throw away!


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This month’s box is in collaboration with Etsy, the wonderful online marketplace for the creative community. I absolutely love buying my art supplies from Etsy, there’s such a vast range of things available and there’s something for every occasion! If you haven’t checked them out before, you’re missing out! Birchbox decided to feature ten Etsy sellers to create a selection of box designs for subscribers to receive. One of my favourite aspects of the makeup world is the packaging and I love when brands push the limits and create beautiful looking products. The box that I received was created by The Lovely Drawer (@thelovelydrawer) and it featuresย a beautiful eye-catching pattern. I love the combination of colours, it’s definitely a keeper!


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Dirty Little Secret – Eye Shadow Crayon – Fetchย (full size) – RRP ยฃ10.50ย 

I’ve actually tried out one of the Dirty Little Secret Lipsticks before and I really liked it so I recognised that polkadot pattern on the packaging straight away! I love cream shadows so a crayon is right up my street. I chose the shade “Fetch”ย as I tend to wear pinky-champagne style shimmer shades most of the time as I find them to be the most flattering on me! The great thing about crayon shadows is how easy they are to apply – one swipe and you’re good to go. I find that the creamier the product, the easier it is to blend, especially compared to powders, which comes in handy on those super busy mornings.ย My dad’s always referred to my makeup as “slap” (he has a way with words, right?) and for once it’s true, you could probably slap this crayon on and you’d come off looking great. I love that this product is multi-purpose as I’ve been using it as a highlighter too! It lasts ages and doesn’t crease whatsoever (one of my pet peeves).


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CLฤ’ Cosmetics – Melting Lip Powder – Red Cherry (sample) – RRP ยฃ15

I’m all for original thinking and innovative ideas but this just seems a bit unnecessary to me. I put powder on my eyes, on my cheeks, on my brows but on my lips?! It’s a no from me. I just can’t see why I would opt for this when I could easily go for my usual lipstick formula that I know isn’t messy. The idea behind this product is that it melts from a powder into a matte lip tint. It’s waterproof, smudge-proof and it’s full of Vitamin E to keep your lips hydrated. It sounded great to me until I swatched it. The powder clumped up into little balls making it not only difficult to blend out but difficult to imagine on my lips. Don’t get me wrong, I am open minded about every product that I try, so I went into this hoping for the best, however it just didn’t work for me.ย It looked patchy and lumpy! After that experience, I certainly wouldn’t pay ยฃ15 for it.


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Dr. Botanicals – Pomegranate Superfood (full size) – RRP ยฃ14.90

Most of us have seen some of the Dr Botanicals products floating around our Instagram feeds. If you haven’t heard of them, they’re a fantastic skincare brand that sell some of my favourite face masks! Whenever I’m trying to tackle spots and blemishes, I usually use a drying treatment which leaves my skin feeling like the Sahara desert – you can’t win can you? I use this mask whenever my skin needs a moisture boost and it works so well for me. It’s actually an overnight mask, so you can apply it before bed and whilst you sleep, it gets to work! I love the idea that there is minimal effort required. Sometimes when I apply a face mask, I’m already dreading the lengthy washing-off process, but this mask doesn’t require any effort until you wake up and even then it’s so quick and easy to remove. In fact, my skin usually absorbs every last drop so I rarely have anything to scrub off anyway! It’s so hydrating and refreshing, my skin completely transforms overnight. If I need my makeup to go particularly well, I always use this the night before as it prepares my skin perfectly! 10/10 would recommend!


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Luseta Beauty – Keratin Smooth Conditioner (sample) – RRP ยฃ19

I’m awful with heat protection for my hair. I straighten my hair a lot and I occasionally remember to spray some protectant however it’s just so easy forget! I love that this nourishing conditioner can easily become part of my haircare routine. It repairs and strengthens damaged hair and it only takes a couple of minutes for it to get to work! I use this straight after shampooing my hair and I leave it to sit for a while before rinsing it off. My hair feels so soft and silky afterwards – I love it! I’m definitely going to invest in the full sized version of this product.


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Rituals – Happy Buddha Foaming Shower Gel – RRP ยฃ8.50

I’ve heard so much about Rituals however I had never tried any of their products until I received this one! I love foaming products for the shower as it just makes life so much easier and it leaves my skin feeling so squeaky clean and soft. This shower gel is fragranced with sweet orange and cedar wood which smells SO GOOD! It takes minimal effort for the gel to transform into a foam so don’t worry about standing there and trying to work it into a lather for ages. I will probably be purchasing the full sized version of this product too! I can see myself using this every day, as I love the scent and the way it makes my skin feel.


I really liked this box! I think it was great value for money and I will use most of the products on a regular basis. Yes, the lip powder isn’t for me, however when I subscribed to Birchbox, I knew I wouldn’t always receive products that I loved! If it was a whole box of products that I disliked, I’d be less lenient but one or two every now and again is fine with me. The products inside the August box, together, are worth a whopping ยฃ67.90 and considering that the subscription costs ยฃ10 plus ยฃ2.95 P&P per month, that’s such good value. I never feel like Birchbox are being stingy when it comes to products, which is why I’m still subscribed years later! Are you subscribed to any beauty boxes? Which is your favourite?

N xxxx

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CLICK HERE TO READ LAST MONTH’S REVIEW!

Want to try Birchbox for yourself? Click here and use my referral link to get ยฃ5 off your first box!ย 

*RRPs correspond to full-size items at birchbox.co.uk/shop