PRIMARK HAUL AUGUST

Hey everyone. I'm back with another post today of a PRIMARK haul. I haven't been shopping in what seems like forever. My last haul was in April I believe as I won a voucher. If only money really did grow on trees. Oh well enough rambling so here are my goodies.


BLACK CHUNKY LACE UP BROGUES £14.00

With A/W season winging it's way and me travelling to work by bus these are perfect to stop me hopefully slipping over in the rain and snow when running for my buses.


POCKET SHIRTS IN SHADES L-R (PURPLE, KHAKI, NAVY & WHITE) £8.00 EACH

Now these may not look too exciting, but trust me these are perfect for ladies like me who are shall we say well endowed on top and fear buttons popping on regular fit shirts. Primark bring these type of shirts back in time and time again and I will always by them. I usually wear a bodycon vest or top underneath as they are very see through. The sleeves can be rolled up or down. These ones are very long on me this time. Say about calf length at the longest point as they have a dipped hem so I could even put a bodycon dress underneath. I usually wear a size 10 in most items. These are very oversized so I bought them in a size 6 except the navy which is an 8 as there were no size 6 left in that shade.


GREY MID LENGTH CARDI £12.00

I already have this in black and love it. So simple and a great transition piece between seasons. Very 90's inspired too. I have this in a size 8. I have mine left open as a long cardi, but judge the size for yourself if you prefer it done up as above. This is calf length on me.


BLACK ID BRACELET CHAIN DETAIL FLATS £8.00

Sometimes i find that I am in between size 5 and 6 in Primark flats. These however fit me perfectly in a size 5 my usual size as are the lace up shoes too. These will mainly be for work, but will work with skinny jeans too.


GREY MARL (LEFT - FRONT VIEW) & BLACK (RIGHT - BACK VIEW) ZIP BACK JUMPERS £10.00 EACH

These are the perfect oversized, but not too oversized tops to pair with pretty much anything. They have a dipped hem at the back. The length is crutch/under the bum length. I think I will have to be careful with the zips on these though as they keep catching on the material. The quality of the material is great. Like something you would see in Zara. I bought these in size xs.


GREY MARL (LEFT) & BLACK (RIGHT) V NECK KNITS £5.00 EACH

As a cheaper alternative to the above zip tops you could go for these although the material is thinner and they look a bit less quality, but they are still soft and great for layering in A/W. They are v-neck front and back with a lower v at the front. I got these in a size 10 and now think I should have got sizes 8 or even 6. I can't be bothered to exchange them though for the price so I will tuck them into high waisted items instead.

I hope you have enjoyed this haul. let me know your Primark bargains in the comments below in case I missed something ;)



Love to you all



Vicky xx

BALANCE ME BB NATURAL PERFECTION SPF 25

Hi gorgeous people. It's Friday so let us take a moment to say hooray for the weekend. Okay so mad moment over I will now move on to my review.



Product information:

An anti-oxidant and super plumping BB cream to firm and smooth away imperfections, address uneven skin tone, provide skin with a flawless, luminous finish and protect against the visible signs of ageing thanks to the natural titanium dioxide-based sun filter. 

It works to prime, moisturise and protect with SPF and deeply hydrate. A lightweight super silky cream for even sensitive skin types to brighten and condition. 

Contains a signature blend of essential oils for intense hydration and 100% hyaluronic acid for super plumping and resurfacing of the skin. Natural oils are included to really nourish and enhance the skin. 

This product does not have a whitening effect just a warming mineral based tint for a beautiful glow and light coverage to highlight. Designed for a wide range of skin tones. Also contains redness reducing ingredients.

My thoughts:

Okay so let me start by saying that I do like this product and am still using it as my current everyday make-up base, but I am going to be honest and say that I don't feel all of the above happened for me.

I found no plumping, firming or smoothing effect. By this I mean my skin still very much showed through as the tint of this product is so light to me it is more of a hydrating primer and moisturiser. The coverage would be great for someone who has great skin and just wants a healthy glow as in a skin highlight not a tan glow. I had to use more concealer than usual as I have uneven skin and blemishes. Therefore I can not say that this product gives a flawless finish, but it is luminising.

It is super lightweight on the skin and easy to apply with fingers as I did. I like the SPF factor and the scent is amazing. Very cleansing and relaxing. I love inhaling it every time I apply it to my skin.

Because of the hydrating feel I would say it is conditioning and due to the glow it is brightening. I usually have some redness on my cheeks, but I wouldn't say it was reduced by this product. Therefore if you have really obvious blemishes this product really isn't for you unless you are going to use it solely as a primer.

So in conclusion I do enjoy using this product due to the priming, moisturising, hydrating, highlighting effects and the lightweight feel. Plus it's an easy product to apply every day. SPF is included so that's always a winner for me. The scent relaxes me and prepares me for the day.

The downside is that it didn't plump, firm or smooth my skin. It took more work with concealer for the coverage I like, but it does claim to be a highlighting tint product and not a medium/full coverage product. Although a flawless finish is also claimed.

Let me know if you have tried this product with your thoughts on how it works for you and your skin type in the comments below.

Also balance me are currently holding their 'Beauty Voyage' competition until the end of August. Whether you off on holiday adventures or on a stay-cation as I am this week they want pictures of your favourite balance me products on your travels. Simply tag with either #balancemeaway or #balancemehome depending where you are. Then share it on @balancemebeauty Twitter and Facebook. The best pics each week will win some balance me prizes.

Good luck to those who enter!

 This was a pr sample sent to me for promotion and review purposes, but all opinions of this product are my own.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

DHC AGE-DEFYING PREMIUM LIPSTICK GE COLLECTION

Hi there gorgeous people. Welcome to Beautiful Addictions where today I have lipstick reviews for you from one of my favourite brands DHC who are a cult Japanese brand. I have 3 of the 6 shades from this collection to show you.


SHADES L-R: PETAL PINK, FIRST BLUSH & RICH RASPBERRY

So how are these lipsticks age defying? Micronized pigments deflect light creating a plumping, 3D effect. Due to the moisturising, hydrating, conditioning and protecting ingredients lips are left in much better condition reducing vertical lines. These smooth, buttery, satin-finish lipsticks give full coverage with a hint of sheen.

Full shade range:

Petal Pink (PK102)
First Blush (RS105)
Rich Raspberry (RS107)
Velvety Red (RD109)
Rose Gold (BE111)
Bold Persimmon (OR112)
These lipsticks were very moisturising on the lips. At the start of applying my make-up I always add lip balm and apply make-up lip products last. 
These did add a lovely healthy sheen to my lips and were very wearable for every day, but the colour pay off wasn't that great. The most pigmented was the shade Rich Raspberry of these 3. I have tried them since without applying lip balm first and there is a better colour pay off, but mostly with the shade Rich Raspberry. 
If you do not feel that you need to apply lip balm first and are after wearable shades for every day then these would be great for you as they are very moisturising. The packaging is exquisite. So beautiful and expensive in appearance.
These are currently at a reduced price HERE!
These products were sent to me for free to review with an honest opinion that is my own.
Let me know your favourite shades in the comments below.

Love to you all

Vicky xx

BANK HOLIDAY DEALS & GIVEAWAY EXTENDED!

Hi lovelies and Happy Bank Holiday :) I have been scouring the Internet for fashion and beauty bargains that you should definitely check out! 

Plus I have extended the closing date for my Nivea giveaway to give more of you a chance to enter. It's FREE which is better than any sale!


FASHION SALES ↓ 







Plus there is also this beauty sale for vintage lovers!

BEAUTY SALE ↓ 



For the chance of a FREE product enter my giveaway below ↓ 




Love to you all



Vicky xx

I'M NOW ON FACEBOOK!

Hi everyone. I hope you are all enjoying the bank holiday weekend. Today I have joined Facebook and would love to see you there :)



Check out my Facebook page HERE!

Also don't forget to enter my Nivea giveaway below by 5pm today for skincare you can use to protect your skin all year ↓ 




Love to you all



Vicky xx


GLOSSYBOX BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Hey lovelies. I have been subscribed to GlossyBox for the past 3 years and thoroughly enjoyed receiving a present in the post to myself every month. So here is my first impression of this month's products.




This has a lightweight cream formula with a gloss finish for a beautiful velvety shine. It can be applied to the cheekbones, browbones, lips, cupids bow or other parts of the skin.

This is a yellow based champagne highlight which I think will be a great staple in my make-up bag. The lid is usually white with the Kryolan logo. This product also comes in 6 other shades.


A softening, nourishing and pampering hand cream.

This has such a pretty design of packaging. I don't want to break the seal on this yet as I have other hand creams open, but I can tell you that it also comes in scents of Mango & Mandarin as well as Vanilla Pistachio.


This is a very neutral pink shade wearable for every day with any outfit at any time of year.


A product to smooth out the hair leaving it supple with added sunscreen protection. Super moisturising for a silky finish adding strength and shine making hair more manageable and lustrous. A weekly thirst quencher to beat dryness. To be used before shampoo. Suitable for all hair textures.

I have previously reviewed this product. Check out that post HERE! I already received this product in my November 2011 GlossyBox and although I do love it GlossyBox is for discovering new products and not having them repeated.


This floral, musky, soft, sensual fragrance is described as capturing the essence of love.

Top note: Bergamot, Rosebud, Neroli.
Heart note: Tuberose, gardenia, jasmin petals
Dry down note: Warm cedar, sandalwood, musks

It is definitely a soft scent perhaps more for daytime. It's very subtle and I think would suit all ages.


A revitalising, hydrating, gentle milk cream to help remove make-up and dirt for radiant, refreshed and softer skin. Apply to dry skin am and pm and gently massage. Rinse well and remove with a cotton pad.

I am currently using another cleanser, but I will try this one out and review it for you.

Let me know in the comments below your favourites in this months box if you are subscribed.

For more information on GlossyBox UK click HERE and for the US GlossyBox click HERE.

Also don't forget to enter my NIVEA giveaway below ↓ 


Love to you all



Vicky xx

WIN £400 WORTH OF AX PARIS & BARRY M

Hi everyone and Happy Friday. I have a fantastic competition to tell you about so keep on reading!


Fancy winning a £200 e-voucher from fashion brand AXPARIS.COM as well as £200 worth of BARRY M summer essentials? I thought so :)

Simply fill out this simple form which is so quick and easy, LINK! Please check the T&C's before you submit your form!

The closing date is Monday the 1st of September! 

Also don't forget to enter my NIVEA competition for a free product in the link below ↓ 


Love to you all



Vicky xx

GIVEAWAY: NIVEA SUN PROTECT & BRONZE FACE

Hi everyone. Are you having a fab week so far? I do hope so. Today I have a fantastic giveaway that I am sure a lot of you will want to enter to make the most of your holidays and moments in the sun.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!!!!


Skincare and most of all sun protection is so important for all of us. Not only for health reasons, but in slowing down the ageing process. Nivea have within their sun range this fantastic Protect & Bronze Face cream in factors 30 & 50.

To find out more about this product check out my post on NIVEA'S ULTIMATE SUMMER SURVIVAL BEAUTY KIT. Also I have a post on the NIVEA SUN RANGE which I am a massive fan of by the way. It's the best sun protection I have ever used. I am very pale and I don't burn when protected by it :)

10 lucky followers will win a Nivea Sun Protect & Bronze Face cream each.

T&C's:

UK entrants only!

You must be over 18 or have your parents/guardians permission to enter!

There will be 10 winners winning one product each.

Comment below why you think you deserve to win with your full name and Twitter username.

Follow my blog via BLOGLOVIN' (I will check)!

The closing date to enter will be 5pm on Sunday 24th of August! Thursday 28th of August!

Winners will be notified on Twitter shortly after the closing date/time and asked to email their address details on to me so that I can ask Nivea to send out all prizes.

If you do not respond by 5pm Saturday 30th of August another winner will be selected.

Good luck to all those who enter!

Previous entrants will still be included in this competition. 



Love to you all



Vicky xx

H&M WISHLIST

Hi all and welcome. I have been doing a little virtual shopping online and found some great fashion finds at H&M so here are my wish list items.











Have you picked up any great H&M purchases recently or any sale bargains with the change of fashion season. Let me know in the comments below.

Images not my own.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

TIMELESS TRUTH Q10 CAVIAR NOURISHING MASK (ELASTICITY)

Hi everyone and Happy Sunday. Yesterday I tried out another TIMELESS TRUTH beauty mask that was sent to me for review.



From the TIMELESS TRUTH luxury range this anti-ageing, revitalising beauty mask contains Co-Enzyme Q10 which helps promote skin cell turnover, reducing the visible signs of ageing giving skin a radiant glow and preserving the skin's elasticity. Ideal for sun/weather damaged and ageing skin. A brightening and moisturising product that prevents wrinkles and smoothes out fine lines.

I kept my beauty mask in the fridge for a really refreshing pick me up. After cleansing I removed the mask from this sachet. There was no outer layer to peel off before applying this mask. I pressed the mask onto my face hooking the side loops around my ears. At the bottom of the mask there is a section to pull up the chin from underneath and the ends of this section also hook over the ears. This mask by far has been the best fit. It was very comfortable to wear and stayed pressed against the face without feeling tight just secure. I left the mask on for 20mins. It is recommended to use it for 15-20 mins 3/4 times a week for optimal results. I then massaged in the essence remaining on my skin and followed on with my usual skincare. 

I thought I would feel ridiculous wearing this mask because of the ear parts, but I really felt pampered and enjoyed using it. This is my favourite beauty mask out of the four I have tried from this range. The results were for me a nourished and hydrated feeling. My skin felt smooth, supple and soft and very much brightened. I love the innovative design of this mask and give it a Q10 out of 10!

To view my previous TIMELESS TRUTH beauty mask reviews click this link!

Have you ever tried a beauty mask that fits this way? If yes, let me know which brand and your thoughts on the design.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

EUCERIN DERMATOCLEAN 3 IN 1 MICELLAR CLEANSING FLUID & EYE MAKE-UP REMOVER

Hi once again today beauties. I have been enjoying testing out a couple more skincare products recently which I want to share with you.


EUCERIN DERMATOCLEAN 3 IN 1 MICELLAR CLEANSING FLUID

Eucerin DermatoCLEAN Micellar Cleansing Fluid is an effective yet gentle 3 in 1 cleanser, toner and eye make-up remover. PH balanced for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it actively helps maintain skin’s moisture levels whilst sweeping away any oil, debris or make-up leaving skin purely cleansed and hydrated, allowing skin to breathe. Skin is left prepped for moisturiser or make-up.

This product was fantastic to use. With a cotton pad I swept the product around my face and neck to remove oils and dirt and if I had worn it make-up. It felt pure and clean on the skin like water without any residue. It was good at removing mascara too although waterproof mascara needed a little more help.

EUCERIN DERMATOCLEAN EYE MAKE-UP REMOVER

Eucerin DermatoCLEAN Eye Make-Up Remover removes even stubborn waterproof eye make-up helping provide a clean slate for your skin to breathe. Effective without being harsh or drying on the sensitive eye area, it is also suitable for contact lens wearers.

This did work very well at completely removing waterproof mascara without being harsh.

I would totally recommend both of these products. I love the convenience of the Micellar Cleansing Fluid as I don't usually wear waterproof mascara and it's a cleanser as well as a toner so no need for separate products.

These products are suitable for all skin types, but sensitive skins should definitely try these products out. They are free of fragrance, alcohol, and anionic surfactants.

CLEANSING TIPS!
1. KEEP IT SIMPLE
Gentle is best. Although it may feel good to scrub your skin until it shines, keep in mind that the oils you’re scrubbing off are part of what keeps your skin healthy. While it’s true that exfoliating dead skin cells is important, they also form the barrier between your dermis (the under part of your skin) and the outside world. Plus sebum, the oil your skin produces, guards against skin cells’ dehydration, so try to exfoliate no more than 1-2 times per week.
2. MAKE IT A RITUAL
It's so important to remove make-up and cleanse your skin after a long day. To ensure you always do it, make a ritual of removing your make-up each night. When you are really tired or simply don’t have time, Eucerin DermatoCLEAN 3 in 1 Micellar Cleansing Fluid will make the job quicker and easier for you.
3. SWEEP IT AWAY
When using cotton pads to cleanse the face, sweep in small circular motions upwards and outwards to increase circulation and leave your skin looking radiant. Apply a small amount of Eucerin DermatoCLEAN Micellar 3 in 1 Cleansing Fluid and gently sweep over the skin from the centre of your face towards the hairline. Remember don’t rub too hard.
4. LET IT BREATHE
Even after a big night out, don’t forget to remove your make-up, your skin will thank you for it the next day! Although it’s tempting to fall straight into bed, the Eucerin DermatoCLEAN Eye Make-Up Remover makes it quick, easy and effective to take away all remnants of your eye make-up leaving it fresh for the next day.
Eucerin products are available at Boots.
These products were sent to me for review purposes.
What are your favourite Eucerin products? Let me know with reasons why in the comments below.

Love to you all

Vicky xx

POND'S INSTITUTE NATURAL BEAUTY & NOURISHING ANTI-WRINKLE CREAMS

Hi lovelies. I hope you are well and looking forward to the bank holiday weekend coming up next week. Today I have two face creams which were sent to me to review for you.


POND'S INSTITUTE NATURAL BEAUTY N CREAM

Although this product can be used on all skin types it is designed for young skin. This nourishing day cream has ingredients such as green tea to protect against ageing, glycerin to maintain the skin's water levels, fatty acids to strengthen the skin barrier and vitamin B3 to improve skin tone reducing fine lines, redness and discolouration.

I love the scent of this cream which is very refreshing and a perfect wake me up product. It's very lightweight and sinks into the skin easily.


Designed for dry and mature skin which ages faster causing fine lines and wrinkles to develop earlier. Providing deep care and nourishment, improving skin texture, giving a smooth, supple, healthy and illuminated complexion. With built in SPF 15 UV protection increasing the skin's barrier to sun exposure. Enriched with white tea extract and vitamin B3 skin is left flawlessly hydrated and soft.

This cream had a slightly thicker consistency, but it still blended into the skin with ease. 

I used both of these creams day and night and under make-up. They both worked well on my skin leaving it soft, supple and hydrated.

Pond's Institute products are available to purchase at Boots, Superdrug and Sainsbury's.

Let me know your favourite Pond's Institute products with reasons why in the comments below.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

ARK CLOTHING SALE WISH LIST

Hey sweets. I have been out today for a pub lunch. I had a burger and chips which wasn't awesome, but the brownie was lush. We managed to miss the rain going there and coming back which was ace. I hope your Sunday is going well :) Feeling rather lazy after all that food I decided to browse some websites and came across the ARK CLOTHING SALE.

There are some amazing finds on there and you can grab an extra 10% off with code 'SUPER10'.

Here are my faves!







Let me know your ARK CLOTHING SALE picks in the comments below.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

TIMELESS TRUTH ORGANIC SILK FIBRE ELIXIR MASK

Hi sweeties. The rain has stopped and now we finally have some sunshine to enjoy again. I felt like a pamper today so I tried out another face mask from the TIMELESS TRUTH range.



This mask aims to improve the quality of the skin's collagen and elasticity fibres while moisturising and plumping the skin. With a cloth made of natural silk fibre this mask will leave the skin clean and fresh while also having a whitening effect to remove age spots and freckles. Suitable for all skin types.

Before I used this mask I left it in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. After cleansing I opened the sachet above and removed the white plastic backing from the mask. There were two layers of mask remaining which to me looked very similar in texture and colour. I applied the actual mask layer against my face and peeled of the blue plastic film. This was a little awkward at first because I found the textures to be very similar, but once they parted the outer layer came away easily. I adjusted the mask to fit perfectly around my face. It did fit really well and stayed in place throughout the treatment. It felt refreshing on my skin. It's meant to be left on for 15-20 mins 3 or 4 times a week. I only have this one which I left on for 20 mins. I removed the cloth mask and massaged in the residue as well as the remaining product in the pack, following on with my moisturiser.

 My skin does look a little more even than before using the mask, but I think more treatments would be needed as advised for a more noticeable whitening effect. It was refreshing, but this could also be because it had been in the fridge.

I will be reviewing the last mask from this range that I have been sent to try hopefully next week. For my previous TIMELESS TRUTH mask reviews see this link!

Let me know which of the face masks I have reviewed from this range appeals to you the most in the comments below.



Love to you all



Vicky xx

NIVEA'S ULTIMATE SUMMER SURVIVAL BEAUTY KIT

Hi lovelies. I'm back after a wee break from my full time job and blogging. I am back now fully refreshed and able to write posts with enthusiasm.

Nivea have put together an 'Ultimate Summer Survival Beauty Kit' which I have been trying products from over the lasts few weeks and want to share with you now.


So lets talk products ...........


This water resistant product has been formulated specially for the face containing natural plant extract to help activate the skin's natural tanning process so that even pale people like myself can gain a healthy glow while still being protected. This has a very lightweight, non-greasy formula perfect for hot summer days and nights.


Designed to provide intensive moisture for up to 12 hours. The scent of this lip butter is amazing. It's like candy for the lips without the calories, ha ha. By nature I am not a massive fan of lip butters in tins as I prefer to use a stick, but I have to admit that my lips have not peeled or chapped once since using this product. They feel so smooth and nourished. Raspberry Rose gives a very subtle, yet flattering shade to the lips. A baby pink milky tone that is great for every day wear. I tried it yesterday under a nude/concealer shade lipstick that I usually find hard to wear and it made it look fabulous. There was no obvious creases or patchiness and it didn't look unnatural on me like those shades tend to do.


In summer I think we all tend to be a little more active and just want to get outside as quickly as possible to enjoy the summer sun. These wipes are great to refresh the skin while removing dirt and make-up. The mesh design removes a little more product and dirt I feel than regular face wipes. They have a lovely scent too. I have also reviewed Nivea face wipes from this range for other skin types which you can see here!


Oh my gosh this I am a big fan of. It has a quick dry formula and contains kaolin mineral powder. The scent and feel of this product on the skin is amazing. This left no powder residue on my clothes or skin. I love the click and twist design. The scent instantly makes me feel relaxed somehow too.


This water resistant product quickly absorbs into the skin leaving no sticky residue. Perfect for spritzing on the go when enjoying your summer festivities. I have reviewed many products from the Nivea Sun Range here!

I am a massive fan of the Nivea Sun Range as I burn so easily even when using some sun protection products. That has not happened since I have been using Nivea's sun protection products. The Nivea Sun Range is not only essential for someone very pale like me who burns very easily, but I would recommend it to all skin types. It's now my go to sun protection which I am now sharing with my boyfriend and his brother, ha ha :)

I would definitely purchase all of these products in the future as they are definite beauty staples!

Thanks to Porter Novelli for sending me over these samples :)

What are your Nivea summer essentials? Let me know with reasons why in the comments below.



Love to you all



Vicky xx
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