Category Archives: Beauty

8.30.2016

Switch Off, De-Stress And Take A Deep Breath

I tend to go out of my way to ensure my blog is frivolous, at times superficial, but most importantly, far removed from the part of my life that I don’t share with anyone. For me, not talking about the troubles of day-to-day life is not because I want to convince everyone that I am invincible. I’ve just never felt it was appropriate. However, for this post I wanted to share with you a little bit about the last few months, so that you will understand why I was genuinely moved by the new campaign from Philosophy Skincare…

We don’t often take time out for ourselves. Because we are all so busy with work, relationships, commitments and the pace at which we move through our day. And as a result we often push ourselves to the limit. That is, until the imminent arrival of exhaustion, as well as the burning desire for nothing but a lounge or a bed. It’s then that you realise the stress you have put on your body and your health.

I can’t deny that I’ve spent the last six – twelve months, running from day-to-day. My soul drowning in a schedule that has spun its way in repetitive cycles around my life and bundled my existence into a heart-breaking seven day package; Working full time Monday to Friday and dedicating any free time to preparing content for my website, attending events, driving social media, writing blog posts as well as running my own fashion and lifestyle brand. Not only did I forget to take time out occasionally. I completely forgot to take care of myself.

When your stressed, there’s no denying that it takes a toll on your health and well-being. But it also takes a toll on your appearance. Tired and dull skin are just one of the consequences of not looking after yourself properly. And as a result for the last month or so, for the first time in a long time, my very busy schedule has caught up with me and my skin has been out of sorts. It has also started to lack that youthful radiance that we all wish for.

Then a few weeks ago I received a care package from Philosophy Skincare which asked me to try their new range, Take A Deep Breath. Consisting of two products; An oil-free gel cream that works to keep skin hydrated, energised and radiant. And an eye gel cream; that delivers oxygen to the eye area resulting in younger, more vibrant looking skin. The campaign also encourages you to take a moment to breath and see life more clearly. Not only looking after your skin, but also your health and well-being.

I’ve always loved to spend time by the ocean. Especially when I’ve lost my inner balance and my skin is suffering from irritations. From now on I want to make a conscious effort to take time out for myself at least once a week. So now it’s over to you. When will you make time to look after your own needs? Remember, the small changes we implement have the most empowering and long-term effects. And if you can only fit just a small amount of time aside for yourself, do it while looking after your skin too with Philosophy’s Take A Deep Breath. Available to purchase here.

Photos are not my own. Source Philosophy Skincare.

8.21.2016

A Floral Fragrance For Spring

In my teens and my early twenties I only ever wore one fragrance. Then when I moved to Sydney eight years ago I began working at Estee Lauder in their PR department. Specifically working on their portfolio of designer fragrances. I went from owning just one fragrance, to many. And soon had a collection big enough to switch up my scent every day of the week. Since then I have always had an extensive range to choose from. Until now. When all at once, every bottle seemed to come to an end at the same time.

I am such a creature of habit, so I thought I would purchase something a little different this time. This weekend I paid a visit to Mecca at The Intersection in Paddington. They have an amazing range, including unique personal and home fragrances which you can’t find in any of the major department stores. I always see Gypsy Water from Byredo on Instagram, so I was almost certain I would love it. But after finally having a chance to smell it, I decided it wasn’t quite the right scent for me.

The girls at Mecca helped me go through the entire Byredo range, without actually having to smell everything! And quite quickly narrowed my selection down to just a handful of options which would suit my fragrance style. I fell in love with Inflorescence, which is a fragrance especially created to celebrate the beginning of Spring. That too seemed fitting! I also picked up two new Byredo candles for my home, which are just as beautiful as the personal fragrance range.

It’s always nice to switch up your fragrance depending on your day, mood or the weather! So I also wanted to purchase a second. I’ve had Chloe’s original EDT on my wish list for so long. So it was a very simple decision. Centred around the classically beautiful rose, Chloe offers a vibrant, modern take on the traditional flower. Mecca don’t sell this fragrance in-store but you can buy it through their website here.

Find out a little more about each scent below….

Byredo Loose Lips Candle. A beautifully feminine and fruity scent, inspired Byredo founder Ben Gorham’s childhood memories of his mother’s lipsticks. A fusion of rose petals, Morello cherries, orris root and delicate notes of violets. Once used to fragrance lipsticks, this velvety candle adds a woman’s touch to any room.

Byrdeo Loveless Candle. A deep and mysterious scented candle, captured in a effortlessly cool, gloss-black vessel with a contemporary edge. Adoxal and mandarin notes are released upon lighting, offering an air of freshness to an otherwise moody and exotic scent. Notes of petitgrain, wild tuberose, papyrus and black cedarwood linger.

Byredo Inflorescenc Eau de Parfum. Celebrating the onset of spring, this captivating scent is a stroll through overgrown flourishing flowers and captures the essence of bright blooms as they reach their peak. A heady blend of pink freesia, lily of the valley and fresh jasmine make for an alluring, joyous aroma.

Chloe Signature Eau de Parfum. Composed of pink peony, freesia, lychee, magnolia, lily of the valley, rose, cedarwood, amber and honey. This seductive scent is both comforting and intriguing. Encased in a beautiful bottle with real silver plating, and finished with a hand-tied ribbon. This fragrance will look beautiful placed any dressing table.

Photos are not my own. Source Mecca.

7.14.2016

My Alpha-H Skincare Essentials

Skincare has always been important to me, however it literally took years to find the right products that worked specifically with my skin. I went through some stages where products would work and then just weeks later loose their magic. Even resulting in dry skin, un-even skin tone, allergic reactions and breakouts. I actually believed that my skin was just always going to be a bit of mess.

That was until I was recommended the Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser. My skin improved from the first application and unlike other products I had tried in the past, it continued to have a magical effect weeks and months later. That was 4 years ago and I’ve used it every day, twice a day since then. I’ve also added a handful of other Alpha- H products to my daily routine.

There’s no denying that every girl wants beautiful skin, which is why I wanted to share this story. As well tell you the products which have worked for me. They’ve changed my skin for the better and if you haven’t yet found your own perfect skincare routine, I hope that they’ll have the same result for you…

Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser with Aloe Vera. This is a creamy three-in-one cleanser which is rich in Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. It completely removes all of your face and eye make-up whilst helping to correct the skin’s natural pH balance.

Alpha-H Instant Facial. This is a multi-purpose facial spray that helps to reinvigorate the complexion by refining the size of your pores, removing dead cell build-up and softening wrinkles. It also leaves the skin feeling fresher, smoother and firmer.

Alpha-H Liquid Gold. If you only try one product, try Liquid Gold. A skin resurfacing treatment formulated with a low pH delivery system to effectively diminish wrinkles, pigmentation and sun damage.

Alpha-H Liquid Gold Intensive Night Repair Serum. This is a high performance night time anti-wrinkle serum designed for both pre- and post-menopausal skin. Formulated with a combination of powerful age fighting ingredients, it works to visibly plump, firm and sculpt your complexion.

Alpha-H Liquid Laser Concentrate. This is a new addition to my skincare routine, which works to hydrates and firm mature skin. The serum has a light gel texture and is formulated with a low-pH delivery system to minimise signs of ageing. It will also make your skin glow!

Photos are not my own. Source Alpha-H.

6.16.2016

Bobbi Brown Beach Nudes

As winter weather well and truly begins to set in, there is no easier way to hold onto that remaining summer glow and add warmth, tone and life back into your face than with a natural dusting of bronzer. Luckily this month sees the launch of Bobbi Brown Beach Nudes. A collection of three essential make-up items for creating a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow all year-round, in just a few steps.

Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder. If your anything like me, your skin gets a shade or two lighter in the colder months. For this reason a bronzing powder is the perfect option. I love the new Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder. A soft matte, silky-smooth bronzer which combines two-tones of red and brown to create a shade that you would find in a natural tan. Instantly warming the skin with a natural looking colour.

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Colour. This super lightweight formula glides on smoothly and evenly, delivering a sheer and slightly glossy finish that’s wearable everyday. Formulated with Shea Butter, Murumuru Butter and Apricot Kernel Oils, the subtle colour once applied not only helps warm your completion, but also rejuvenates, nourishes and prevents awful winter chapping.

Bobbi Brown Sunkissed Eye Palette. Nothing kills the illusion of a summer glow like tired eyes. The good news is you’ll find the perfect combination of bronzy nudes, soft pinks and gold shades all in the one eye palette. Each perfect for for brightening eyes. To create a subtle summer glow, simply apply colour to the inner corners of your eye and swept across your eyelids. If you have particularly dark or red eyelids, even out the tone with an application of the Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Corrector or Concealer prior to applying shadow.

If you want to achieve dewy, healthy-looking complexion you also can’t go past my favourite Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick; And to complete your look apply a coat of the new Eye Opening Mascara to perfectly thicken, curl and lift your lashes. To purchase any products mentioned in this post as well as the new Bobbi Brown Beach Nudes collection, visit the Bobbi Brown website here.

Photos are not my own. Source Bobbi Brown.

5.30.2016

Bec And Bridge MBFWA

Channelling a mood of luxe free spirited bohemia, the Bec And Bridge MBFWA runway show was another one of my favourite collections presented at this years Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia. Inspired by a recent trip to India, designers Becky and Bridget explored the visual explosion of culture, colour and chaos. Designing a resort collection which celebrates the spirit of an Indian summer.

Relaxed two-piece separates, one shouldered styles and free flowing dresses were key. Featuring unique details; Including raw hand-woven cottons, glowing embellishments and cascading trails of fabric, hanging from sleeves, ties and skirts. The continuity of fabric, delicate cut outs and textured embroidery created a stunning consistency and a resort mood of effortless styling. All brought to life in a perfect palette of gold, white, black and soft pink…

If you plan to escape our chilly Sydney weather for sunnier days overseas you will want to pick up at least one of six pieces already available to purchase from the collection via the Bec and Bridge website here. The rest of the collection will be available later in the year just in time for our Australian summer.

Photos are not my own. Source Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia. Bec And Bridge MBFWA Getty.

My Blonde Closet

An Australian Fashion & Lifestyle Journal By Gemma-Louise May