Trends: Animal Print

Hi All!!

So August and our so called 'British Summer' is coming to an end and Autumn/Winter are on their way. I don't know about you but i'm already having a look around for key items that will be on trend and keep me snug right through until Spring.

I am delighted that Animal print is back on the runway as a must have in every fashionista's wardrobe. It's widley known that you either love or hate animal print; I however love love love it! My favourite print is Zebra out of all the choices.... faux of course. But it has to be said sometimes its rare that you can find animal print items that look good, borderline tacky but nice tacky if this makes any sense? I mean some prints that are around just don't look... right and I cannot be doing with that in my wardrobe!!!!

Anyways, here are just a few items/looks I like of the new trend. I could have posted far more images but you'll see more items in stores and online in no time....

I especially love the idea of mixing leopard print and red heels, I will definately be trying this!What are your thoughts?

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Minx Nails

Hi All!

Across the road from where I work in Birmingham there is the award winning nail salon Marco Benito who provide high quality in nail care & hair removal services. I have known and visited this salon a fair few times in the last 4/5 years specifically for eyebrow threading. Walking past there the other day I noticed in the window that they now specialise in Minx Nails which has been the latest craze in nail art. If Minx Nails is new to you then celebrities such as Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Rihanna and so much more are all rocking the latest designs.

I was so excited so see this as i've always wanted funky nail art like this. So as soon as I saw the sign and I knew this had to be my Birthday treat to myself; which is coming up in 4 weeks time (bummer!). Although I am confident that I will definately be treating myself to these; I am undecided on leopard print or polka dots? Hmmm! I had a look at the current foils Benito's has in stock and these too were at the top for me!

What do you think?

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Wishlist ♥

Hi All!!


I know we are still in Summer.. although it's not been much of one I am really liking this coat from River Island....

It looks so cosy, the only detail about it i'm not really into are the patterns on the stripes. If you go on the website or take a look instore as it's not too clear in this photo.

I may still invest in it though, amongt a couple of other winter coats. I'm really like A/W trends, watch out for a upcoming post about it soon.

Have you seen your winter coat yet?

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Spoiled Pretty Baby!!!!

On August 16, I gave birth to Westley Faville Baird. He weighed in at 7 lbs 3 oz and measured 19.75 inches. I am so in love with my son, I don't know what to do with myself. Couldn't wait to share some of his first pics - so without further ado...

Read more »

Four new heels for = £28

Hi All!!


I know what you're all thinking... Too good to be true.....right?

Snakeskin heels: Barratts = £3

Suede heels: Miss Selfridge = £15

Platform heels: Very.co.uk = FREE!

Shoeboots: Barrats = £10

Bargains Bargains Bargains!!

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

July's Haul

Hi All!

As you may already know I started my new job last month as a Recruitment Administrator. I knew that my first pay day would mean a few days of shopping and I took full advantage of my new salary. Here is what I bought.....

H&M

Bodycon Dresses £7.99 each

Topshop

Lace Bodysuit £12

Primark

Heels £10

Sunglasses & Geek Glasses £1/£1.50 each

River Island

Fringe Dress £12.75

(Also bought this is Orange)

Barratts

Feather Clutch £10

Shoeboots £10

As you have seen from previous 'Outfit of the Day/Night' posts I did purchase a few more items then these so I think its safe to say I went all out last month. I keep telling myself 'You deserve it' hehe!

So what have you all purchased in the past few weeks?

Doma-Nikki....x

Read more »

Outfit of the Day

Hi All!!

I bought a new maxi dress this week as a treat to myself for reaching targets at work! And wore it out for a few drinks in the week. I love the eagle detailing on it, what do you think.....

Dress: Topshop

Belt: Primark

Bag: Primark

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Applying Eye Make-Up Properly

Every woman needs to know how to properly apply eye make-up. You may think you really know how to do it properly, but learning the techniques of the trade, will increase your beauty, and fashion skills. People will be drawn to you, while you are sporting the perfect application of eye make-up. There are tricks and ways that women need to know, that can help, them enchant themselves, and their outlook.

Now when applying eye shadow, one should know how many colors they are going to be applying. Apply the primary color first, this is the color, you want to stand out the most, then apply it, to the entire eye lid. Next, apply the lighter color above it, and below the brow. The entire area should be covered in one movement.

Eyeliner is the next step, and it is available in both liquid and pencil form. First, you want to apply the eyeliner to the eyelid, and as close to the base of the eyelid as possible. Start at the inside corner, and work your way to the outside. This is difficult for some people, and shorter strokes, is an option, if you are also having difficulty. For a more dramatic look, you can apply the liner to the bottom of the eyelids as well, and do this in the opposite direction as the top.

Mascara is the final step to applying eye make-up, and to make your lashes look their best, use an eye lash curler. A lot of women, have a tendency to pump their applicator brush. This is a big no-no, for, that allows air to get inside the tube, and dries the mascara out. Turning the applicator a few times inside the tube before pulling it out, is a better resolution. Run the brush down the lashes, starting closest to the eye, then away from your face. Apply two coats, and allow to dry before applying anymore, this gives the impression, that your lashes are actually thicker than they really are. Use an eye lash comb on the lashes once you are finished applying the mascara. This will remove any clumps, and separate your lashes, giving them the fuller look.

Now that your eye make-up is completely applied, you will have a fresh, attractive look, that is certain to get you all the attention you deserve.

Read more »

Cosmopolitan Magazine Giveaway

Hi All!

If you didn't know already Company magazine is giving out free double ended mascara and Radox scrub in this months issue for just £2......

I've got mine :o)

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Outfit of the Night & Haul... again!!

Hi All!!

So a girls night out calls for a new outfit right......

Jacket: Playboy

Dress: River Island £12.75

Boots: Barratts £10

(I will get better photos asap.. have a haul post coming up soon)

And here is a pic of my and the girlies....

Hope you liked!
Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Outift of the Night & Haul

Hi All!!


The other weekend was my boyfriends best mate, Daryls 21st birthday night outing and also Richard's kickboxing annual night out... I know i'm quite behind with this post... but I just thought i'd show you what I wore....

Whole outfit was bought in the sales at bargain prices

Top: River Island £6

Skirt: River Island £15

Heels: Faith £25


Close up of the heels:

I adore this skirt so much and for to get it in the sale for so cheap when it originally cost £50 is a wicked bargain. As you can see I was mixing up the gold with a lil bit of hippy....

Hmmm.. well not quite! I don't know why but I always pull that same face after a few drinks... can you say fish lips lol! Followed by a group photo.....

Holly (Daryls gf), Daryl (birthday boy), Lew, Richard, Me & Kris

Hope you liked!
Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Never say never...

Hi All!!!

Do you remember the post I made about these....

Rule number one: NEVER rush about in them, especially on staircases

Yes thats right folks, I fell down the stairs in them!! How silly do I feel haha!! I'm perfectly fine and so are my heels; just have a few bruises on my legs but nothing a bit of MAC concealer won't fix.

I just thought i'd make a quick post about this funny scenario. Don't get me wrong i'm still in love with the beauts, and they're so comfy. But I will never wear them running down the stairs again!!

Doma-Nikki...x

Read more »

Makeup Mondays With Mario: Skin Care Superstars!

Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is answering your burning beauty questions!!! Every Monday, he will answer a beauty/skin care question as part of a weekly column on Spoiled Pretty, Makeup Mondays with Mario.

Mario,

This is so exciting being able to ask you a question. I am a regular visitor to your blog and have learned so much about makeup from you. But my question isn't about makeup. It's about skincare. I'd love to know what your favorite skincare products (cleanser, moisturizer, scrub, makeup remover and lip balm) are and why.

Thanks and keep up the awesome work,
Jessica

Hi Jessica,

I have tons of favorites when it comes to skincare products. For cleansing, I love La Mer The Cleansing Foam; it feels amazing, smells good and spreads nicely. A less expensive and comparable cleanser (and one of my all time faves) is Olay Deep Cleansing Face Wash with Witch Hazel. A great, basic and cheap scrub is St. Ives Apricot Scrub. I try not to exfoliate every day though - it can be too harsh on your skin. Once or twice a week I use DDF's Glycolic 5% Exfoliating Wash. To remove your makeup, I recommend Josie Maran's Bear Naked Wipes. I love everything about them and I'm sure you will too. Wipe away makeup and then follow with your normal skincare routine.

When it comes to moisturizing, I tend to use products that are not too thick or oily. I love La Mer The Moisturizing Lotion. It comes in a pump and is more lightweight than the popular creme. Cetaphil is still a favorite of mine also and works well on a lot of skin types. Sara Happ's The Lip Slip is a very nice lip balm and you should try out her lip exfoliators that come in lots of great flavors. I also love MAC's Tinted Lip Conditioner w/ SPF 15. I saved the best for last - The Eye Balm by La Mer. It's a new eye cream and it's the creme de la creme! I use it like three times a day and I LOVE IT!

Thanks for visiting Makeup Mondays with Mario!

xo,
Mario

Got a question for Mario? Email your makeup and skin care queries to spoiledprettyquestions@gmail.com, and check back next Monday to read Mario's expert advice!

Read more »

L'Oreal Infallible Stars Never Fail Lipcolour Giveaway!!!

L’Oréal Paris celebrity spokespeople inspire women everyday to embrace quality, sophistication and, most importantly, to remember that they are worth it. To celebrate these leading ladies and the product that redefined long-wear lipcolor, L’Oréal Paris launches Infallible Stars Never Fail Lipcolour, a new star-studded shade collection of Infallible Never Fail Lipcolour compacts personally selected by Beyoncé, Andie MacDowell, Diane Keaton, Eva Longoria Parker, Kate del Castillo and Linda Evangelista. This diverse group of women represents a range of ages, ethnicities and styles, ensuring all women can find a colour that makes them look and feel infallible.

Infallible Stars Never Fail Lipcolour offers rich, vibrant color, a long-lasting, comfortable finish. The innovative packaging holds two formulas together – the liquid basecoat and the balm topcoat – in a single compact that’s a modern work of art. Though small enough to fit in the tiniest of evening bags, Infallible Lip’s packaging doesn’t compromise on convenience for size. It features a built-in mirror, which makes it possible to apply the lipcolour even on-the-go, a real benefit for transfer-proof lipstick that requires careful application.

6 Celebrity Shades – 16 Hours of Fresh, Comfortable Color

Beyoncé (Beyoncé's Red)
International performer Beyoncé chose a dazzling Red reflective of her vibrant career as singer, songwriter, producer, visionary stage talent and actress. With this shade, she dares women to embrace self expression.

Andie MacDowell (Andie's Rose)
Actress Andie MacDowell embodies the “Because You’re Worth It” spirit with her vivid, feminine Berry lipcolour that brings out the confidence of any woman at every age.

Diane Keaton (Diane's Tuberose)
Acclaimed actress and Hollywood icon Diane Keaton opted for a sophisticated Tuberose shade that brightens her skintone and invites every woman to achieve the luminous, healthy glow she deserves.

Eva Longoria Parker (Eva's Caramel)
Known for her sizzling looks on and off the screen, Eva Longoria Parker chose a rich Caramel that complements her beautiful, coppery skin tone. With this colour, she invites all women to indulge their sultry side.

Kate del Castillo (Kate's Plum)
Kate del Castillo, one of Mexico’s most acclaimed actresses and a new addition to the L’Oréal Paris family now starring in the U.S., opted for her first product collaboration to be a sensual Plum to showcase her signature pout – and all others – with instant glamour.

Linda Evangelista (Linda's Beige)
World renowned supermodel Linda Evangelista knows what's in vogue – a sophisticated Beige lip. This fashion-forward shade brings instant elegance to any look.

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Stars Never Fail Lipcolour Compact Collection is available at chain drug, food and mass market retailers for $11.99 each. But this week, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with L'Oreal Paris and FIVE lucky winners will receive all six celeb-inspired shades!

Enter to win by leaving a message in the comments section. Make sure to leave your email or another way for me to get in touch, just in case you get lucky!

Contest is open to U.S. residents. The giveaway ends at noon (EST) on Sunday, August 15, 2010. Good luck!

Read more »

MAC Haute & Naughty Lash

As much as I adore MAC Cosmetics (y'all know I do), I’ve always been a little meh about their mascaras. So when the company sent me a sample of their new Haute & Naughty Lash, the package actually sat around for weeks before I tried it.

When I finally got around to reviewing it, I wanted to smack myself upside the head for waiting so long – and for doubting the makeup masterminds at MAC.

Haute &Naughty Lash lets your lashes lead a double life, thanks to a two-in-one dual wiper system. For natural, genetically blessed look, use the wand with the pink end. For doe-eyed, dramatic fringe, use the wand with the pink and disco purple end. The hydrating formula prevents flaking and comes off easily with eye makeup remover.

Peep these photos and see for yourself how Haute & Naughty transformed my lashes from blah to bladow!

Before: nekkid lashes looking a bit bald

After: Haute & Naughty lashes

Haute & Naughty Lash is currently available at nordstrom.com and maccosmetics.com. In September 2010, it will be sold at all MAC stores and counters. MAC products have a way of selling out, so if I were you, I’d get this mascara while it’s haute!

Read more »

Cheap and Chic: Trina Makeup Bags

Just because I'm having a boy doesn't mean I've become any less of a girly girl. Just check out this piece of pretty I've packed in my hospital bag.

The Barbados Essential Clutch by Trina is the perfect size to stash your beauty essentials in. Chic and streamlined, this bag does double duty as a makeup case and as a versatile clutch. And since it retails for just $35, you can afford to fill 'er up.

Trina makeup bags are available at Nordstrom.

Read more »

Winner of the Lancôme Définicils Precious Cells Mascara Giveaway

Hi, y'all. So sorry I'm weeks late announcing the winner of the Lancôme Définicils Precious Cells Giveaway.

Congrats to Liya S. She will receive the first mascara from Lancôme to regenerate the condition of lashes, all while delivering definition with lash by lash fullness.

Many thanks to Lancôme for spoiling Liya and sponsoring this contest. Stay tuned for the next giveaway!

Read more »

Get Chelsea Clinton's Wedding Hair!

The biggest celebrity wedding this summer happened this past weekend, former first daughter Chelsea Clinton, married Mark Mezvinsky in scenic Rhinebeck, N.Y. The bride was tressed in a feminine French twist for her outdoor nuptials. Now women everywhere can get Chelsea’s gorgeous wedding 'do at just a fraction of the price with Goody Simple Styles Modern Updo Pin ($6.49)!

Follow these three easy-to-follow instructions for achieving a professionally perfect updo every time:

Step #1: Twist your hair into a bun, tuck your ends; insert modern updo pin up through base of bun

Step #2: Lift pin upwards to create your modern updo

Step #3: Press pin downwards to secure your style (the updo pin says hidden in your hair)

The Goody Simple Styles collection is available at Target, Walgreens, Walmart and Duane Reade stores nationwide.

Read more »