My make up storage box

I have had this storage box for years now. Up until recently it has been home to my nail kit (I did gel nails at college). When we moved house just over a month ago I decided to take all my unused nail stuff out and put my box to better use...

I can't remember the exact seller on Ebay but I have found someone that sells the exact same boxes with other designs too...

Ebay seller- td_importers

What do you store your make up in?

Holli x

BM Beauty mineral bronzer in Summer Warmth

I had a sample of this bronzer in my Glossybox a few months ago. I've never been a big fan of loose powders as I find them messy and hard to work with. However, as soon as I used this little pot of wonder I totally changed my mind and have used it until it was time to buy in full size.

For £8 you get 4g of product which doesn't seem much but believe me it is all you need. A little goes a long way.

I love how versatile this little pot of powder is. I use a small amount all over my face after I have applied my foundation, it gives a hint of colour and a gorgeous glow. I then use it underneath my blusher for an extra colour of warmth. You could also apply it to the eyelids, or even add a little to vaseline and use on the lips for a dash of shimmer.

Apologies for the rubbish camera work, my iPhone just wouldn't pick up the lovely glow to my skin. I can assure you it is 100% there though! Since wearing this bronzer so many people have commented on my skin. Even after my operation 3 weeks ago when my skin was dull, after applying this my friend commented how healthy my face looked.

What I also love about this BM Beauty bronzer is the face it is 100% pure minerals, so theres no nasties going onto your skin. Massive thumbs up from me, I hate the idea of my skin being caked in un-natural ingredients.

BM Beauty mineral bronzer in Summer Warmth is available for £8 on www.bmbeauty.com alongside lots of other lovely mineral products.

Have you tried anything from BM Beauty before?

Holli x

50 Shades of Grey, Who's your Ana and Christian?

I know I know, you are probably sick to death of hearing about the 50 Shades trilogy by EL James. But I love the books so much I HAVE to write a post on them.

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Everyone loves a bit of kinky f*ckery every now and again... don't they?

For those of you that don't know (where have you been the past few months?!) 50 Shades of Grey is the story of  'young literature student Anastasia Steele who interviews successful entrepreneur Christian Grey, she finds him very attractive and deeply intimidating. Convinced that their meeting went badly, she tries to put him out of her mind – until he turns up at the store where she works part-time, and invites her out.

Unworldly and innocent, Ana is shocked to find she wants this man. And, when he warns her to keep her distance, it only makes her want him more.'

There are two books to follow the first, 50 Shades Darker and 50 Shades Freed.

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Initially I didn't cave in to the 50 Shades obsession and to be honest I was irritated by all the posts on Twitter and Facebook. But, eventually my curiosity took over and I purchased the first book from Amazon. As soon as I began reading I was hooked. I've never really been a big reader but I just couldn't put it down. I found myself giving up my daily routine to read just a little bit more. At the end of each chapter I'd promise myself I would read no more but I couldn't help it! 

As soon as I had finished book one I was desperate to read the second, so I purchased both books together, again from Amazon.  The only negative criticism I have is the way EL James writes, her sex scenes and descriptions get soooo repetitive it really started to grate on me. If I hadn't become so hooked on the storyline I probably wouldn't have carried on reading!

What really struck me was how obsessed I found myself becoming over Ana and Christians relationship. Sometimes I actually convince myself they are real! Sad I know...

Which leads me onto my reason for this post.... Who do you think should play Ana, Christian and the other characters from the books?

Here are my choices...

Matt Bomer as Christian Grey

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Known from the American series White Collar and the recent movie Magic Mike.

Matt, to me, is THE Christian Grey. He is perfect in everyway. Alot of people have moaned that he is gay and therefore could not play a believable Christian. My answer to this is b*llocks! This man is what dreams are made of..ok!?

Alexis Bledel as Ana Steele

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Best known as Rory Gilmore in the Gilmore Girls and Beth Dawes in the tv series Mad Men.

With the girl next door look about her, striking blue eyes and angelic image, Alexis is the perfect lady to play love struck Ana. Everything about her screams Anastasia Steele to me.

Blake Lively as Kate Kavanagh

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Best know for her role as Serena in the tv series Gossip Girl.

In the book,  Ana's best friend Kate is a typical blonde beauty that attracts all the men. Blake Lively fits this role perfectly. She is so attractive it evokes an ugly streak of jealousy from deep inside me to the point where I actually really dislike her. Ha!

Jason Statham as Taylor

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Best known for his role as Frank Martin in the Transporter and Lee Christmas in The Expendables.

Taylor is Christians body guard so who better to take that role than hunky hard man Jason Statham. Just look at that stubble, those mean dirty eyes... mmmm...

Jay Hernandez as Jose Rodriquez 

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Starred in the movies Crazy/Beautiful, Quarantine and Hostel.

Jose Rodriquez is Ana's best male friend, a photographer who is helplessly in love with her. He is handsome, charming and fits the books description  perfectly. 

Cillian Murphy as Jack Hyde

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Starred in Movies such as 28 Days Later, Batman Begins and Inception.

Jack Hyde is a perverted sex pest, otherwise known as Ana's boss. Without giving too much away, he is as a$$! Cillian Murphy isn't a particulary well known actor but I think he would play the slimeball well, not that I think he is one of course.

Zooey Deschanel as Layla

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Played Jovie in the movie Elf, Kat in the tv series Weeds and more recently Jess in the tv series New Girl.

Like Ana, Layla is pale skinned with dark hair. I think Zooey is a great choice to play the crazy ex-sub of Christians. There's something about Zooey Deschenels' eyes that really gets to me, there seems to be so much behind them, although I'm not sure what. I think this is what would make her the best Layla.

Unfortunately I haven't got an actress in mind to play Mrs Robinson (Elena). I know alot of fans want Sharon Stone or Kim Catrall but I'm just not sure. 

I haven't included other characters from the story such as Christian and Ana's parents so if you have anyone in mind leave a comment.

I really hope this film is out next year, I cannot bloomin' wait! I'm going to be so disappointed if the actors chosen don't fit whats in my head but I guess that's what happens when you read books before the movies are out!

Holli x

Daisy Street Shoes

I am a self confessed shoe-aholic. I fully believe a girl can never have enough shoes. A website I always look to when I am in need of my shoe-fix is Daisy Street Shoes. They are always bang on trend and their prices are very reasonable. Here are my favourites...

All from www.daisystreet.co.uk

Holli x

Ootd

I bought this top from Miss Selfridge last week, I fell in love with the cut and metallic thread, its so pretty.
I'm also wearing my Miss Guided 'disco pants' which I bloody love! They are so so comfy.

Necklace- Burtons Menswear
Rings (left to right)- silver ring from a market in Spain, wishbone knuckle ring bohemiancollective.co.uk, black rose ring from Claires Accesories, plain silver ring unknown (gift).

Holli x

Rimmel Fix and Perfect Primer

I'd never used a primer before I became interested in blogs. The first and only one I have used was the MUA one. Since then I have never applied my make up without using my primer first. Last week I decided to try a differet brand. Whilst in Boots I picked up this one by Rimmel as it was on offer for £4.99. According to the tube it has 5 in 1 results, it smoothes, resurfaces, brightens, mattifies and protects. After using it a good 4 or 5 times I'd say it does 4 out of the 5 claims. The only thing it didn't seem to do was brighten my skin, although I'm not fussed because I don't particulary need a primer to do that. I wear it mainly to create a smooth surface for foundation application, and also to keep my makeup in place throughout the day. I am very pleased with my purchase and much prefer it to MUA's primer. It gives better results and smells really nice, quite floral. My make up stayed put all day, from 8:30am until around 4pm, plus I had been travelling to and around London for 7 hours in the blistering heat! Big thumbs up to Rimmels Fix and Perfect Primer!

Holli x

Asos metallic playsuit

I ordered this playsuit for a family party last night. I was a little worried it may be too short and show too much ass (I'm a firm believer in the 'boobs out, legs covered / boobs covered, legs out' rule). However, after trying it on I was pleased, my butt cheeks were covered :-)

Holli x

ASOS metallic playsuit with V front, £38.00

My absence

To say I have been M.I.A lately is an understatement! I haven't blogged in what feels like forever. I have excuses though, we have moved house, spent ages decoration and last wednesday I had my long awaited operation. All went well and I am recovering at home with the help of my mum, sister and husband. I am very swollen and sore and very fed up to be honest. I hate sitting around doing nothing, it's driving me insane. Hopefully I will be okay for next Sunday as I am off to Twickenham to see Lady GaGa! I am unbelievably excited.
We still haven't got our computer set up at the new house but as soon as it is (and i'm fully recovered) i shall be back to blogging more regularly. Until then I shall leave you with a lovely pic of my neck... Nice.

Holli x

I'm still here!

Holy moly, I haven't done a blog post in ages! Things have been rather hectic. There's been a few personal problems we've had to deal with then Mr.A's time in the Army ended so we've been house hunting. We managed to find a lovely house in our hometown and have been VERY busy decorating. It still isn't finished, the carpets upstairs need laying. My neck operation was booked for August 1st then changed to the 29th, i'm still screwing over it and getting myself worked up over the risks :-( To be honest my blogging mojo has disappeared a little over the past few months, theres been so much going on. Things are starting to settle now though so hopefully when we are all moved into our new place I shall return fully!

Holli x

Topshop peplum top

I want this top in every colour! It is so comfy and flattering and at only £16 its a definite bargain.
(Yes I am fully aware there is a small bench next to me... We are at my mums and the kids like to sit on it to watch tv lol)

Holli x

River Island sale purchases

I got up extra early to grab some bargains from River Island today. I was a little disappointed though, there wasn't anything particularly amazing. I did come home with two lovely things though...
Dress reduced from £40 to £15.
Jumper reduced from £32 to £15.

Holli x

My new onesie and Topshop dress

I've wanted a light weight onesie for ages and had spotted one in Topshop, but at £34 I just couldn't justify spending that much on 'lounge wear'. When I came across this leopard print one in New Look for only £15 I jumped for joy.
I also bought this coral dress from Topshop for £34. I'd seen these style dresses on In Love With Fashion .com and liked the petrol coloured one. I didn't order one though as I wasn't sure if the style would suit me. When I saw this dress I had to try it on and it looked bloody lovely! Will do an outfit post featuring it at the end of the week. I also bought a maroon coloured peplum top from Topshop but it looks naff photographed on the hanger. Will show you when I get round to wearing it.

Holli x

Topshop cross print dress

I bought this dress a few weeks ago when we had a few days of hot weather. I wore it with a bright coral bandeau top and bikini bottoms. I love the different straps, makes it more interesting. Yesterday I paired it with a black vest top underneath and leggings for a shopping trip to the metro centre. Will post what I bought later :-)

Cross print dress £18 Topshop

Holli x

Me Me Me cosmetics absolute bargain!

Groupon.co.uk have an amazing deal on at the moment- £45 to spend on mememecosmetics.co.uk for just £18.
All you have to do is buy the Groupon offer, wait for your code to be emailed to you, then spend away! I am very tempted.

Shoulder cut out top

I saw this top in New Look awhile back but they didnt have black in stock. So i went on the hunt and found the exact same top in black on the Debenhams website for £12 and now its in the sale for £8.40, bargain!
Sorry for not posting a full length photo, incase you're wondering the top comes to just below my bottom (my favourite length!)

Red Herring cut out shoulder top available here- http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10001_10001_103020662460_-1?breadcrumb=Home%7EtxtShoulder+cut+out+top

Holli x

OOTD pink blazer

Going for a more sophisicated look today.
Blouse- Primark last year
Blazer- H&M
Wet look leggings- Next
Heeled Chelsea boots- Ebay
Necklace- River Island

Holli x

Something a little different

If you follow me on Instagram you will have seen a photo of my hair already. I decided to have some subtle highlights put in. I'd never had them before and was a little worried I might turn out looking like a skunk but my hairdresser assured me I'd be fine. After 2 hours i came out with this...
What do you think?

Holli x

OOTD

Heres what i wore this miserable, dull, wet Sunday!
Floaty top- John Zack last year
Black vest top- New Look
Leggings- River Island ages ago
Heeled Chelsea boots-
Necklace- River Island

Sorry for the lack of posts, Ive been having some personal issues lately and lost my blogging mojo. Hope i get it back soon.

Holli x