Autumn Additions: The Black Ravens - Gothic Jewellery Review

Hey Bloggers!

Long time no speak. First off, let me start by saying you have permission to slap me on the wrist for the distinct lack of content lately. Since my last post, a tortoise could have crossed the finish line by now, haha! ;) The good news? After my recent hiatus, the time away has inspired me with lots of exciting new post ideas to share with you all in the coming months - so watch this space, guys and gals.

Now that we've caught up, let's get into the zone about today's post shall we? It's a doozy and involves reviewing some GORGEOUS Gothic jewellery which I've added to my #autumn collection. 

I've recently had the pleasure of getting acquainted with an emerging brand that has since become my go-to for all things goth, punk and alternative, and I'm particularly fond of their amazing accessories. 

Let's start by introducing their brand name - I mean how cool does The Black Ravens sound? Pretty damn cool by my reckoning. Whether you're looking for a few spooky additions ready for #Halloween or you're in need of some affordable fashion buys to darken up your Autumn/Winter '18 Edit, The Black Ravens are the holy grail of online alt. retailers.

So without further adieu, here are the jewellery pieces I'm raving about this season (see what I did there?)

Black Triangle Choker Necklace 

Somewhere between a necklace-choker hybrid, this statement edition would definitely be my 'desert island' necklace. If I could only bring one jewellery item with me, this would be the main attraction. Not only does it come with a striking gem-embellished design that guarantees to collect compliments day or night, it also has a strong black rope which serves as the chain. Since I've always been a fan of black coloured jewellery, this piece offers a comfortable fit, a look that's aesthetically pleasing for any occasion, AND a triangular pendant that's 100% unique. So in terms of statement accessories, The Black Ravens have ticked all the right boxes while appealing to my inner goth chic.

Rose Gold and Black Single Band Ring

Next on my autumnal list of must-haves is this two-tone men's ring. Let's just address the sheer frustration of shopping for anything fashion related when you're a curvy gal! The majority of today's high street accessory brands don't offer XL-sized rings, so this minimalist piece is definitely a conversation starter for me. Sure, this is technically a guy's ring, but with the elegant rose gold band, who can tell, right? I find there's bucket-loads more variety once you branch out into the unisex (or men's) departments. What I LOVE about this ring - apart from its alternative look - is the fact that it's crafted from an authentic + solid Tungsten metal that stays scratch-free and won't tarnish. Anyone who knows me will know I never leave home without a fistful of rings to show off, and this single band will forever be ranked among my fave middle finger rings. There's no stacking required either as it's attractive enough to rock without other rings to distract the eye. 

Rose Gold Plated + Diamond Skull Stud Earrings

Image Credit: The Black Ravens

Three is the magic number, and these adorable skull earrings make a glistening gift for Halloween or Christmas! If you're after a pair of studs that are A) Not too small and B) Have instant Gothic appeal while still remaining pretty, these rose gold gems belong in your collection. I'm not one to follow the crowd when it comes to style, but unless you've been living under a rock you'll have noticed rose gold is EVERYWHERE right now: On our Instagram feeds, on the street style blogger round-up, at this year's #FashionWeek, and of course - emerging in full force on the high street at every opportunity. Love it or hate it, I personally cannot get enough of everything rose gold, so naturally, these earrings offer a luxe finishing touch that's right up my street. They also make the perfect fuss-free choice for those windy 'out and about' days while hustling from A to B.  



So there you have it: 3 key pieces from The Black Ravens which I can personally vouch for in terms of unique Gothic design, quality craftsmanship and affordability. Check out their website for up and coming pieces, then go and bag an accessories haul for yourself - you won't be disappointed! 


Thanks for reading, lovelies. ^^

Until next time,

Dawn xx  
  

Evanesce Coconut Oil - Nature's Miracle Worker!

Howdy Bloggers,

What's new in your world? After what feels like a lifetime away from my beloved blog (yep, freelancer life is all go!) I felt it was about time I got back in the saddle and focused on my own passion project. Sometimes it's good to just brew up a black coffee, pause for thought and let the words pour onto the page...

So today's post is about a fantastic new beauty product which I've had the pleasure of testing out for some time now. Just for the record, this isn't a sponsored/affiliate blog post, and any opinions about the product are entirely my own.

Introducing Evanesce Creme...

Type of Product: Organic antioxidant-rich coconut oil

Country of Origin: Thailand

Main Uses: As a day or night moisturiser for the face and body, hair conditioner, skin-nourishing massage oil, lip balm, antiseptic scar healer, tattoo care and makeup remover (to name a few.)

What do I Use Evanesce for? My bathroom cabinet has seen more moisturising tubs than a department store beauty counter, but that's because I care about what I put on my skin. A LOT. If trial and testing facial moisturisers has taught me anything throughout my 20's, it's that you should never scrimp on your skincare products. Trust me, it's worth investing in the right kind of moisturisers, and if you can find one product that does it all from a pure source, even better!

Why do I Love Evanesce Coconut Oil? Unlike other coconut oils, this one is organic and absorbs into the skin super-fast. There's nothing worse than waiting what feels like an ice age for your night skincare regime to dry. And what's nice about applying Evanesce creme at night is that you can let the oil get to work while you sleep. zzzzzz.

The Results: I've been using this oil for just over 5 months now, and still have half the jar left. For me, it's a natural miracle worker! I love that this product contains only one ingredient, yet it can be used for many different purposes. Multi-purpose beauty products are the way forward my friends. My skin is on the oily side, but feels dry at times too. This wonderful little pot of joy makes my face feel baby-soft straight away - no muss, no fuss. It works wonders on reducing redness and scarring and I always wake up with a smoother complexion than I had the night before. The trick is to really massage the oil into the main areas that are prone to dryness, redness or wrinkles.

Perks: Luxuriously chic black packaging, a far cry from supermarket-brand jars of coconut oil. This oil instantly starts to melt as you warm it between your fingertips, so you won't need to apply a large amount at once. Word of warning: When the weather is really hot and humid, you'll be likely to end up with a much softer (or even liquid) coconut oil. This is completely normal, and the product will revert back to its solid state once the temperature cools down.

Overall Verdict: 10/10.

To help you make the most of today's beauty buy recommendation, here's a handy list of tips that Evanesce published on their own website.

What's your go-to beauty product of choice? Comment me below. :)

Until next time... xx


Images courtesy of evanesce.co

Perfume Pick: Viktor & Rolf 'Flowerbomb'

Hi Lovelies!

Today's blog is short and sweet - fitting really since I don't plan on sugarcoating my love affair with Viktor & Rolf's 'Flowerbomb' fragrance. 

When I first discovered this iconic perfume a few years ago, Dutch duo Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren managed to sell its pretty package to me instantly - even before I got to sample its evocative floral scent. With a polished petal pink bottle, rose gold spritzer and signature V&R branding, Flowerbomb was the debut fragrance by this designer label to hit the headlines. Certainly a luxury item that belongs front and centre on any fashionista's dressing table.

Although I don't own Flowerbomb amongst my worldly possessions just yet, I'm always enticed by its evocative floral notes whenever I visit my favourite beauty counters. I've recently been soaking up some style-spiration from InStyle's latest party issue as well. While flicking through the magazine I spotted a glossy four page spread advertising the perfume, with a pull-out scented sample - just enough to whet any fragrance fan's appetite for floral bouquets.

Since Flowerbomb is a little on the pricey side (at £45 for a 30ml size) I may have to live off cheese and crackers if I plan on treating myself to this bottled beauty. One day, she will be mine... Oh yes! ;) 

Which luxurious scents are at the top of your 2016 festive gift list? I'm sure there's at least one bottle you'll be lusting over... hint, hint.

Oh Hi Autumn, It's Been a While...

Hey Guys,

So it's been a while since I last posted on here, but I'm not going to sugar-coat the fact that sometimes work and life have to take priority. By no means do I LOVE blogging any less, but as we get older, our lives begin to take on that bit more responsibility... who here can relate to this? I'm 27 now, who'd have thought it! ;)

Moving on to today's post, we've officially hit October which is my personal fave time of the year (YAY!) I'm sure I'm not alone when I express my adoration for the autumn season, right? It has all the cosiest things for us to indulge, from stylish sweaters to layer up on, autumnal coffee flavours for the senses to take in, crisp leaves that fall like a breathe of fresh air from the trees, not to mention an excuse to trek new country and go hiking. But let's not forget the main event which happens like clockwork on the 31^st... HALLOWEEN! ;) Me and my guy adore all things horror, so I'm sure the rest of this month is going to be a corker.

Trick or Treat?

Just to kick Autumn off to a beautific start, last week I treated myself to a gorgeous lipstick hue. I'm a sucker when it comes to Superdrug beauty discounts, so naturally, perfecting my pout is always the best excuse for me to freshen up my make-up kit while pinching a few purse strings at the same time.

Max Factor- Colour Elixir Lipstick in 'Mulberry': The Verdict

I've heard great reviews about Max Factor lippies, and have been on the hunt for a rustic shade that will serve to polish up my look for Autumn. In that spirit, today the spotlight is on Max Factor's Colour Elixir lipstick in 'Mulberry'...

Colour:

The focus for fall is all about warm lip tones. This shade is not too overpowering so you can wear it from day to night, and with or without lip liner (always a bonus if lipsticks don't bleed when worn without liner!) Think of a sultry, festive red with a slight metallic sheen... that's what this Mulberry tone is all about, and I LOVE it.

Any lip shade that contrasts with my natural pale skin tone is a winner for me as I just love the retro look. I would choose alabaster skin tones over tanned any day!

Application/Texture:

Glides on super slick and is very easy to apply, so no cakey textures here! You can feel this lipstick conditioning your pout, but it's not quite as creamy as some of my other products. I always prefer to apply a lip balm prior to wearing lip products of any kind anyway - I'm a tad O.C.D that way ;) It doesn't leave an undesirable outline after eating or drinking either, just fades naturally as you would expect from any lipstick.

Packaging:

Goldfinger would be proud of this one. The gold chrome outer case creates a luxurious experience with every use, and I like the fact that the vampy Mulberry shade can easily be identified at the base of this product, unlike other 'all black' lipstick cases.

Final Rating of Product:

Based on the above points, I would have to score this one at 9/10. This lipstick is only one point short of perfection in my eyes, and that's because true perfection is very hard to find. The shade goes with any autumn outfit, but I like to wear it with my New Look tartan shirt as it picks out the red tones nicely.

Which lip products have you been lusting over lately? :) Let me know what you're up to this October in the comments section below...

Hello Sunshine!

Now that we've officially hit summer 2015, it's only fitting that I share my favourite new eye make-up look with all of you lovely bloggers who adore beauty as much as I do. :)

We have a lot to be thankful for when it comes to the sunshine. Not only does summer allow us to make the most of enjoying being outdoors (with no umbrellas in sight), but it's also the ideal season to experiment with different make-up colour schemes. Take my sunshine-inspired eyes as a leading example...

#Hello Bright Eyes

The look I've chosen is super simple to achieve. Here are the products used to create my summertime eyes:

* The Body Shop Colour Crush Eye Shadow Pot in 'Sunshine Love'

Image Credit: MakeUpTemple.co.uk. This shade has a mustard yellow undertone as opposed to a neon glow. The pigment is so amazing and lasts all day, so no need to keep touching it up!

* The Body Shop Colour Crush Eye Shadow Pot in 'Sugar Glaze'

This highlighter shade is a godsend for me. It's not too heavy and has a gorgeous pearlescent sheen that works all year round. You can wear it on the brow bone as I have done, or dab into the corners of the eye for a wide-eyed look.

* Rimmel Soft Kohl Jajal 'White' Eyeliner

As far as pure white liners go, this one is perfection! I have been using Rimmel's white kohl for as long as I can remember and it always freshens up my waterline with every eye make-up look I go for. It's one of those staple beauty buys that every gal needs to have in her make-up bag, and it's so affordable. 

* Bourjois Metallise Metallic Eyeliner in 'Vert Pepite' 

For a look that will have onlookers 'green with envy', build up the intensity of this beautiful metallic liner on your lower lash line. I think the green compliments the sunshine yellow shadow well, and it's a nice contrast.

Note: All images were not taken by me, except the first image marked #

Blueberry Colour Pop

Hey lovelies,

How are you all enjoying spring so far? Looking forward to summer? :) I love springtime as a season second to autumn, not just for the warmer weather, but because it's an excuse to give my beauty cabinet a good old spring clean! (Pun intended)

Now when it comes to nail polishes, I'm usually a fan of darker, more gothic hues. There's something about black, purple metallic and statement red shades that I just love! I think it's because pale skin pairs so well with deeper colours. But last week while shopping for make-up, I threw my usual nail polish rules out the window and bought this fresh sky blue bottle on impulse. 

I've never tried out any Models Own beauty products before, so I'm always a little bit skeptical as to the quality I'm going to get with some high street brands. But after manicuring my nails with this gorgeous 'Blueberry Muffin' shade, I was pleasantly surprised and will definitely be buying more of these nail polishes in the future!

You have to apply at least 2 coats in order to get that bold pop of colour, but the product itself doesn't streak or leave a 'lumpy' texture unlike certain other nail products, so that's always a bonus. The only thing that did confuse me was the fact this polish is supposed to be scented. Unfortunately, I think this is more of a marketing gimmick than an actual blueberry-scented nail polish.

Has anybody else tried nail polishes from the new Models Own #fruitpastel collection - what are your thoughts?

Here are a couple of images for today's spring inspired nails...

Brand: Models Own - Shade: Blueberry Muffin - Candle: Souvenir from a previous fashion event 

Cool comic effect created by moi ;)

The full 'scented' collection - next on my list is Banana Split!

Gotta include Lita Ford's 'Blueberry' as it's one of my fave glam rock classics! \m/

Note: First 2 images taken by Myself (Dawn)

Monochrome Bliss

When it comes to shopping for my love of monochrome, it's safe to say that all logic goes out of the window financially! There's an element to this classic pairing of black and white that just takes my breath away, and it's such a versatile trend. Monochrome is a fashionable look that can be worked all year round, making it stylish to wear in summer AND winter. 

So I've recently been hitting the sales in River Island in search of some wardrobe updates, and I just couldn't resist these chunky black and white ankle boots! Not only were they a bargain on their original price, but they are also incredibly comfortable to wear if you're looking for footwear with some height, but don't want anything that's too elevated. These boots are fantastic to wear in all weather conditions too - I have been wearing mine with footie socks in the hot weather (note the breathable hole in the side of the boot's design), as well as wearing them in the rain (my birthday jaunt around the Lake District yesterday was living proof of this.)

Finally, let's not overlook the sheer attitude these boots add to an outfit! Their striking thick white sole contrasted with a black leather upper, buckle to the sides and zipper to the back scream, 'don't mess with me!' By far the best footwear purchase I've bought this season. 

If you want to read some more of my thoughts on the monochrome trend for summer, and maybe even pick up some styling tips in the process, feel free to have a browse of my article over on Le Reve's blog - you never know, you might just learn a trick or two. 

Thanks for reading! :)

Note: All images taken by Myself (Dawn)

Purple Rain...

Hey Bloggers!

Long time no see ;) Hope you've all been keeping as busy as I have lately? This morning's post is inspired by two things: 1. One of the new season's most uplifting shades, Purple. 2. The legend that is of course, Prince.

For those who are wondering how the 2 link together and who may not be huge Prince fans, it was actually revealed at last week's BRIT Awards that he would be performing a 'secret' gig in Manchester. I was so gutted that I couldn't go! But needless to say, his classic hit 'Purple Rain' along with my new American Apparel 'Violet Panache' Nail Polish are making up for that fact whilst keeping me inspired.

I always get super excited when the new season's fashion and beauty colours arrive. In this case I'm all about purple tones at the moment. Not only are darker hues a sultry alternative to black, but if worn in pastel, this is about as Spring-friendly as it gets. Take my American Apparel Nail Polish for example. This is a rich, metallic shade with subtle hints of glitter thrown in for good measure. So if you don't have time for nail art, this is a great alternative as you're getting colour, gloss and glitter all from one polish. :) Take a look at the colour below and let me know your thoughts? Also, what are your must-have colours for Spring 2014?

Midi Rings: Accessorize, Nail Polish: American Apparel Metallic Polish in 'Violet Panache'.

Note: All images taken by Myself (Dawn)

Best Beauty Products for Summer!

Hey Bloggers,

I hope you're all enjoying a wonderful summer so far? For those who have been lucky enough to head out on vacation, summer is of course the best time to indulge in some quality holiday time. For those who haven't had a holiday, (including myself) well, there's always the winter break. ;) It is my birthday tomorrow though so I can pretend for one day I guess, haha!

Thinking about summer essentials then, what do you like to include in your daily beauty regime? Do you have one or two items that you simply can't leave the house without? When it comes to choosing the best beauty products for my own skin type, my skin is extremely fair so I have to be extra careful in the blazing heat.

I love nothing more than to allow my skin to breathe and although this can prove to be difficult when temperatures are unbearable, one of the most effective ways I do this is to NOT wear any foundation as foundation can sometimes feel a little clammy. Instead, I go for subtle beauty enhancements that are ideal for summer weather. 

Here's what beauty products I'm loving at the moment...

For Lips and Eyes

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Sometimes, lipstick can feel too heavy during summer months so I like to still have a bright pop of colour on my lips, but the added gloss also works very well and catches in the light. :) These Maybelline glosses glide on beautifully and are incredibly addictive to buy in every colour!

For Coverage and Highlighting

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YSL always package their beauty products in luxury packaging, so naturally the gold box was enough to sell 'Touche Eclat' to me, haha! ;) I've also used a Dior radiance booster product in the past, but after my sister recommended using YSL, I've never looked back! I'd say this concealer works better as a highlighter and I tend to combine both this and my Benefit concealer together for optimum coverage.

*

This Benefit concealer, although yes it's on the expensive side, it does deliver fantastic results. If you're looking for great quality coverage on dark circles and blemishes, this concealer has industrial strength meaning it is slightly stronger than regular concealers. Whenever my skin is looking red, I like to dab some of this product on and it gives my skin a boost straight away!

For Blush

I originally bought this product as an 'impulse buy' but it hasn't let me down since! You only need the tiniest amount and you can use this lightweight cream on cheeks, or wherever you need some instant radiance. I find it blends really well over the top of my Bourjois blush and gives me a dewy, rosy glow.

For Sun Protection

This sun cream is so convenient to just pop into your handbag, it absorbs really quickly AND it's the least greasy sun cream I've ever bought! Overall, definitely worth £5.50 in price. :)

Note: All images marked with * taken by Myself (Dawn)

Pick-Me-Up...

Hey bloggers! Just a quick post today as I'm under the weather but also don't want to fall behind on my blog updates! After all, I enjoy creating them too much :)

I always find that coffee of any variety perks me up and makes me cheery again, so here is my latest fix for when I cannot get to the coffee outlets... Low Fat Starbucks Vanilla flavoured Frappuccino. Best served iced-cold, straight from the fridge! I never used to be a big fan of cold coffee drinks, but this one has a smooth blend of arabica coffee beans and vanilla extract which tastes so rich.

For me, coffee is the one drink I can't live without. What do you drink when you're under the weather? 

Note: Image is my own

MAC Cosmetics new product alert!

Hey bloggers! Just a short and sweet little post for you today - As some of you may have already guessed, I'm a huge make-up fan and in particular, have a love for eye shadows.

I'm sure many of you fashion-conscious individuals are constantly on the look out for a fresh beauty update, but look no further because MAC cosmetics have launched a brand new eye shadow range, especially for summer.

With gorgeous shades a-plenty to choose from, there is a colour to meet every spectrum. 

The eye shadow range is called 'Electric Cool', and has been designed around a theme of electric hues that vary from greens, purples and blues, up to charcoal for those who prefer a smokier look. What's great is that every single shade has a summer-perfect shimmer to take you from the beach to the bar.

As with all MAC shadows, their latest collection is highly pigmented, applies with ease and blends to give excellent coverage - three factors which every girl looks for when shopping for a decent eye shadow, I'm sure?

Find this dazzling 'Electric Cool' Limited Edition collection in stores and online from August 2nd up until September 13th and grab yourself a new addition for your beauty bag. My personal favourite shade has to be the 'Infraviolet' for its rich purple tone and flecks of pearlised blue.

Bloggers, let me know if you decide to buy and which colours you like the most?

Note: Original image courtesy of Trendstop.com

Sugar Rush!

Yesterday I went nail polish shopping, specifically looking for on-trend candy colours. 

Superdrug has and always will be my ‘go to’ store for quick-fix beauty products, as they stock just about every high street brand you can think of.

When I got home I couldn’t wait to try out the colours I had bought, like a little girl opening Christmas presents haha!

So lately I have been inspired by Henry Holland’s latest catwalk collection and I wanted to paint a subtle ‘blended’ look onto my nails to pay tribute to his use of sorbet colours.

These are the products I used to achieve this:

Rimmel ‘60 Seconds’ nail polish in

‘Instyle Coral’ priced at £3.69

Rimmel ‘Lasting Finish’ nail polish in ‘Strawberry Fizz’ priced at £2.49

I have to say though, the cheaper polish turned out to be the better quality and was easier to apply despite the coral polish having a ‘flat brush’.

What do you think of two-toning?

Note: Only collage images are taken by Myself (Dawn)

Beauty Product Review: Dior 'Skin Flash Radiance Booster Pen'

Radiance Booster pen with samples of other Dior products, which I am yet to try!

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Heya! How are you all this morn? My latest post looks at reviewing a new beauty product which I purchased just last week and could not wait to try out! 

Whilst shopping for a concealer pen, I wandered into Debenhams as I knew I wanted something with exceptional quality, therefore this would not be my usual high street beauty buy.

Walking into a department store for me is like walking into a candy store, there are so many yummy products to choose from. With this is mind, it's always handy to have a second opinion so that you don't end up buying the whole store! Cue Dior beauty consultant, Christine. 

Not only was Christine incredibly helpful in providing me with expert skincare tips, but she also persuaded me to try on Dior's 'Skin Flash Radiance booster pen' which I was very impressed with. With a complexion boosting, light-weight texture; after applying the product my skin instantly looked and felt fresher, more radiant and hydrated. The shade I chose was 'Rose glow' as I naturally have a pinker tone to my complexion, but there were many different shades for all skin types. 

If you are looking for a product that will cover blemishes, then this pen probably is not the best for that, but it is ideal for reducing fatigue, smoothing out lines and illuminating the face which is what I wanted. What's great is that you can wear this either on bare skin, over or under foundation and you will see the benefits however you wear it. Encased within a sleek, black velvet sleeve to add that little touch of Dior glamour and priced at £26, this is a quality beauty investment that will give you great results in an instant. 

Note: All images taken by Myself (Dawn) except images with * (captioned underneath).