schnella

Live A Lilly Life

2012-02-13T19:55:00.002+13:00

My new planner arrived this morning and i absolutely loooove it!

I like to have something a bit different when it comes to stationery and

school/uni supplies. I mean could have just popped into Whitcoulls and bought

an ordinary black planner, but where's the fun in that?! I love the design on

this and having a cute planner just makes me want to stay organised :)

It goes from August 2011 until December 2012, but i plan on ripping out

the August-December 2011 bit. It comes with stickers too! How cute :)

Each month has a different design. I think May is my favourite.

I start university in a couple of weeks and i can't wait to start using this!

I haven't needed a planner over Summer, so that's why i've only just ordered it now.
I'm sort of excited to start university, but it's all quite scary! Oh, i was thinking of doing
a school organisation type post, so let me know if you'd like to see that :)

I got this from Glitzy Glam and it was US$15.95,

which isn't bad for a decent planner. They are crazy expensive here in NZ.
I had one of these planners last year too, but this print is definitely much cuter!

xoxo

New Makeup Brush Holders

2012-02-11T20:59:00.002+13:00

I've been eyeing up these cute makeup brush holders for a while. Today

i noticed they were on sale, down from $9 to $3, so of course

i just had to pick them up. They are just perfect for the French look i am

currently trying to achieve in my bedroom.

They are from Farmers :)

I've just popped a few of my brushes in there now to show you what it looks like.

I'm not sure whether to put all my brushes in there or not. I quite like the 'simple'

look with just having a few scattered about. So i might just use these for my most

used brushes and keep the rest in a drawer...

What do you guys think?

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend :)

xoxo

Bathroom Storage

2012-02-10T23:04:00.002+13:00

Hello lovelies :)

As i've mentioned a million and one times, i am a bit of an organised freak

and i'm always looking for new ways to store things.

My most recent storage idea is for all my most used bath & shower type items.

Everything else is just kept in drawers in the bathroom.

Section one- Lush stuff

Section two- Moisturisers

Section three- Fake tan, Bubble Bath...everything else really :)

Sorry the pictures aren't the best.

The camera was not being my friend today :(

How do you like to store your products?

The main reason i wanted to do a post today was to say

THANK YOU so much to you all!

I hit 1000 followers this morning and it honestly means the world.

xoxo

♫ When You Say My Name

such a cute, fun song :)

Just An Ordinary Day

2012-02-05T19:52:00.001+13:00

Evenin' all :)

Whilst emptying boxes of old stuff, i found these cute pj's.

I bought them when i was like 14 to go to a pyjama party. I know, super cool.

I got them from Primark. And awkwardly, they still fit...

Mum and i bought face masks :) such a rip off though, $4 each.

I think i'll just go to Lush in future. Much better for your skin and

not that much more expensive.

So disappointed in this season of Skins :( Am i the only one?

I just find the storylines really boring and don't like any of the people.

Maybe it's just cos it's not as crazy as the previous seasons. 3 & 4 were pretty intense.

That's just my opinion.

I am going to head to the Boots website now and make a few sneaky purchases.

Dad's in the UK right now so i can send the parcel to him to bring back for me :) Yay!

Expect a haul soon xoxo

♫ Dear God

A Girl's Life...

2012-02-02T19:38:00.001+13:00

Hello lovelies :)

My brother recently came home from a trip to Australia and he

brought me back some lovely gifts that i wanted to share with y'all.

Thank you so much to him. You're an awesome present buyer bro!

I absolutely love Daisy by Marc Jacobs. It's one of my favourite perfumes

as mentioned HERE. So receiving the hot pink limited edition one,

i was over the moon! It's so much cuter than the original bottle.

The Touring America Mini Collection by OPI

LOVE these. I don't have any shades like these,

so it's great to try something a little different rather than

sticking to the same old shades, which i am very guilty of doing.

Left to Right::

My Address is 'Hollywood' (my personal fave)

French Quarter for Your Thoughts

A-taupe the Space Needle

Honk If You Love OPI

♫ Lucy

love this band. this song is so sad but so beautiful.

Purr By Katy Perry :: Review

2012-01-26T19:05:00.004+13:00

Hello darlings!

I love Katy Perry. She's absolutely gorgeous, has amazing style and i really like her music too. So it's only natural that i wanted to try her perfume right? I'm usually not a huge fan of celebrity perfumes as i've never been that blown away by them, but i made an exception with this one and i'm actually really impressed. Not only is the bottle the most adorable thing, the scent is really lovely too.

I'm a sucker for cute packaging, and this is seriously one of the most adorable perfume bottles i've ever seen. I can see her coming out with a whole range of perfumes, all with different coloured cute kitty bottles :)

Since i'm hopeless at describing scents, here's what they say...

'This deliciously flirty accord opens with enchanting top notes of juicy sweet peach nectar freshened with dewy green bamboo and crunchy forbidden apple leading us down to a floral garden of white jasmine blossom, hot pink freesia and Bulgarian roses. All of this is then enveloped in exotic indulgent tones of vanilla orchid, warm white amber, creamy sandalwood and nuzzling skin musks.'
To be honest though, i don't know about you but that means nothing to me. So basically it's a gorgeous smell. It's not overpowering, great for the daytime and therefore perfect for the teenage/early twenties age. It's really light but the scent definitely lasts. The shower gel and shimmering body lotion that i got with it are pretty awesome too :) but i wouldn't say you needed them, the perfume itself is pretty amazingggg.

I find the price a little steep (at least in NZ), but i do think all perfumes are way too expensive. For what they are anyway. I wouldn't have gone out and bought this for myself (it was a Christmas present) despite the fact i did really want to try it. But that's just a personal choice. I would definitely recommend this and if you have a birthday coming up, it's something to think about adding to your wish list ;)

Have a fabulous evenin' all. I'm off to watch Boston Legal...pretty much addicted to that show atm.
xoxo

♫ Since i Met You
looooove this guy <3

All The Cute Things

2012-01-24T11:44:00.000+13:00

I picked up this cute iPod touch case when i was in America. I love it :)

It cost me around $10 US from a shop in China Town in San Francisco.

Some guy elsewhere tried to charge me $25 for the same case...was not impressed with him!

a few to follow:

alice point :: sparklyvodka :: alicia doll

Phwoar...am i the only one totally in love with One Direction? How adorable are they!

♫ One Thing

America Haul #1

2012-01-20T16:39:00.002+13:00

I picked up some lovely new things when i was in America :)

Everything is so bloomin' cheap compared to New Zealand.

Can i please live there?

I am in LOVE with these boots.

Slipper Booties! Super comfy and only five bucks.

Mac Studio Sculpt Foundation, Mineralize Skin Finish in Soft & Gentle,

Lipsticks in Creme D'Nude and Plink!, and Benefit Boi-ing Concealer.

I hope you're all well and for those in new zealand who received

their ncea results recently, i hope you got the grades you were hoping for :)

♫ keep your head up

Today's Outfit

2012-01-17T19:45:00.001+13:00

OOTD's and FOTD's are my favourite type of posts and so i've been thinking i should try and do more of them myself, but i'm yet to find a decent place in my house to take photos. I've tried so many times but it's just not happening for me! So yet again i have resorted to the bedroom mirror in order to show you guys my outfit.

Top & Ring- Forever 21
Black Skirt- Supre
Shoes- Number One Shoes
Nail Varnish- Sinful Colors Pinky Glitter over 24/7

Hope you all have a fabulous week xoxo

New Storage: My Favourite Jewellery

2012-01-16T17:15:00.000+13:00

Hello my lovelies :)

I'm back from America and although there are so many things i should be doing right now, (i've got a massive to do list), i wanted to show you one of the things i picked up while i was over there. I've really missed blogging as i was unable to do any while i was away (i really do apologise for that). I have plenty of hauls coming up considering i did go a bit crazy over there and bought lots of new things. I'm thinking of doing a post about my travels too, where i went, what i got up to etc, so do let me know if you'd like to see that, otherwise i'll just get right back into my usual blogging :) i received lots of lovely emails and comments while i was away, and i'm so so happy to welcome all my new followers. I know it's a bit late but i also wanted to say Happy New Year to you all. I'm super excited for 2012 and have lots planned for both my blog and life. Also look out for my blog receiving (yet another) makeover.

So anyways, now for the actual reason behind this post...

I have not been into Claire's in goodness knows how long. I think i must have been about 14 years old the last time i was in there. So when i was in America, i spotted a store and had to go in. I didn't think i'd actually buy anything, just have a browse but i spotted this cute little jewellery organiser and had to get it. There were only a few left and with one being in the shape of the letter 'S' for Shannon, i knew it was a sign! It's much too small to fit all my earrings on so i've just put my current favourites there for the moment. The same with the bracelets hanging below, i've just put on my most worn and my watches. The rest of my jewellery remains in the same way i mentioned in my previous storage post. This took me literally about 5 minutes to put together and i added the butterflies myself. I think it's really cute. The only thing that would make it better...if it was in pink!

Hope you are all well :) i will reply to all emails and comments as soon as possible. I just need a little while to get back into my regular routine and get through the huge list of bits and pieces i need to do. Ugh, returning to normal life is never much fun after weeks away!

xoxo

What I'm Taking Travelling.

2011-12-26T21:29:00.001+13:00

Firstly, i hope you all had a wonderful christmas!

So...i'm off to America these holidays and i am so so excited! I'm already all packed and ready to go. I'm a bit of an organized freak haha, i've been packing for weeks in advance! I hope to post a bit while i'm over there, but i just want to apologise in advance, my blogging won't be fantastic in the upcoming weeks. I thought i'd show you guys what i'm taking with me :) So this is my carry on bag which just has the essentials in. My phone and camera will be in this bag too.

Bag is from Cotton On. It was one of my christmas pressies.

- Makeup Brushes and Makeup (i'm not taking much makeup because i intend to buy lots while i'm over there!)

- I'm All Class Travel Wallet. This is where i keep my passport, money, tickets etc.

- Fluffy socks for the flight

- Book, Notebook and Pen

- Sunglasses and Glasses

- iPod, Cards etc

My suitcase. I am actually allowed two suitcases on the way back, so i've got a whole suitcase available to put things i buy in :)

And finally...the toiletries. Obviously my toothbrush, toothpaste and some other items still need to be put into this.

Pink Bag is from Glitzy Glam.

And that's pretty much it :)

If i don't post before i leave, i just want to wish you all a happy new year!

Thanks for reading my blog. I love you all <3

Shannon xx

Early Christmas Presents!

2011-12-23T18:53:00.000+13:00

Okay so i know it's still a couple of days until Christmas, but my boyfriend and i gave each other our Christmas presents today. It's only because we won't get another chance before Christmas Day, and also we're just a little impatient! I just wanted to share with you what i got. As i think i've mentioned before, the boyfriend is amazing at buying me presents. I sense his mother may help him a little haha, but that's alright. I am so so happy with what he got me. If you're reading this, which i highly doubt, thank you thank you!

Firstly the Viva La Juicy perfume from Juicy Couture which i have been wanting to buy for the longest time. I am so in love with this. It seems gorgeous and the bottle is adorable! I don't think i have never bought perfume for myself. I just can't justify the price when buying it for myself. That's why i think perfume makes a great gift because not many people do splurge on it for themselves :)

- Napoleon Perdis Flawless Foundation Brush & Midas Touch Foundation Brush

- Red Corvette Nail Polish

- Love Unleashed Lip Gloss Ring

- Samples of Skin Primer

- Mini lancome instant cleanser and eyeliner (from bf's mum)

His parents also bought me a pair of gorgeous Roberto Cavalli sunglasses (not pictured) which i love. So thank you very very much to them.

I can't believe it's Christmas time already! I am so excited, i absolutely love Christmas. It's my favourite time of year :) i am off to the USA on the 27th, but hopefully i will blog before then. I doubt i will do another post before Christmas though so...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I hope you have a fabulous day and Santa is lovely to you all ;)

Shannon xoxo

(p.s. Megan this post is for you!)

New Dior Foundation & Some Freebies

2011-12-18T13:19:00.001+13:00

I had my school leavers ball the other weekend (will maybe post pictures...but i dont really like any of them. i know, i'm such a fusspot!) and i got my makeup done at the dior counter. I was going to do it myself but sometimes its just nice to get someone else to do it for you. The makeup cost $80 which is rather steep for a one time thing. But if you purchased a product you got it for free, so naturally i picked something up. I got the Forever Foundation because i love trying new foundations, and that cost $91. Have you tried this? Let me know what you think. I've only used it a few times but so far, i love it :)

What i love about buying from more expensive brands, is that you always get free samples! And who doesn't love free stuff? This time i got two mini perfumes (not pictured), two foundation samples and a mini diorshow extase mascara. The lipgloss pictured was also free. I got that from my hairdresser which is a bit random- free lipgloss from a hairdresser? But hey, i wasn't complaining!

I just wanted to say a quick sorry for neglecting the blogging world a bit lately. With Christmas just around the corner things have been pretty hectic and blogging has had to take a backseat. But i'm still here and have lots of ideas for posts! It's just getting round to it.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Bedroom Envy

2011-12-14T19:35:00.001+13:00

I've never lived in a house which actually belonged to my family, we've always rented. So i've never really had complete freedom to do whatever i wanted to my bedroom. I've had to work with the furniture already in the house and being able to paint walls etc has been an issue. I can't wait until the day i buy my house...although i can sense that being quite a way in the future. I absolutely love interior design and am always looking at bedroom, kitchen and living room designs. So today i've just put together a few pictures of bedrooms which i think are so cute. I think i've mentioned this before but i have a folder on my computer where i put all the designs i like but these are some of my favourite pictures. I hope you like them as much as me :)

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Gorgeous Dresses- The Outnet

2011-12-07T17:56:00.000+13:00

I recently came across a website called The Outnet and i am in love with it. Let me know if you've purchased off there before :) it's probably a really famous site for all i know but i'd never heard of it before this week. They have so many gorgeous pieces from tons of different designers such as Alexandra McQueen, Marc Jacobs and Vivienne Westwood, and if i had *a lot* more money, i would seriously indulge in a fair few of these beauties. But until i've got a bit more cash in the bank, i will just have to drool over these...

Ruched Metallic Lace Dress

Sequined and Ruffled Tulle Dress

Feather-embellished Satin Bustier Dress

Bow-embellished Crepe Dress

I really recommend checking out the outnet, even if it's just to browse at all the designer dresses. But also you should go check out a site called Wanelo. It's how i discovered the outnet. It's an amazing site where you can 'find unique products and stores you've never heard of.'
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

*I was not sponsored to do this post. I've never been in contact with the outnet or wanelo. I genuinely just think they are awesome :)

Current OPI Faves

2011-12-06T14:37:00.002+13:00

I seem to post about nail varnish a fair bit. I think it's because it's something that's so simple to buy, so i have a lot of it. You see a colour you like and buy it. Simple. It's not like clothes that you have to try on and you don't have the whole 'it doesn't fit' drama. So today i thought i'd share my three favourite OPI polishes at the minute.

Mod About You, Coney Island Cotton Candy and Crown Me Already.

What's your favourite OPI nail polish? Do you love any of these?
I am thinking of wearing Crown Me Already on Saturday to my school leavers ball. My dress is turquoise with silvery sparkly bits, so i thought i'd add a bit of glitter nail polish in there :) i will do a post on that next week.
Until then, hope you are all having a lovely week!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

Don't forget to enter my giveaway here.

I've also added more items to my blog sale, which you can check out here. OPI and China Glaze nail polish.

A Thank You Giveaway :) CLOSED

2011-12-01T18:11:00.001+13:00

I've done a few sponsored giveaways in the past, thanks to Oasis Beauty, Furless and Sudocrem for those :) But for this giveaway, i've purchased these items myself and this is a just a small giveaway to say thank you so much to all my followers! I know some people wait for a certain follower milestone or something, but i was feeling generous and it can sort of be a thank you/christmas giveaway.

Essie Nail Polish in Knockout Pout

Barry M Dazzle Dust in 58 Candy

Ruby & Kit Purse from Equip

(please note: the purse was originally bought as a birthday present for a friend, not for this giveaway. talked about here. but instead of having it sitting round the house, i figured it would be cute to include in this giveaway, and i got a fair few comments from you guys saying it was super cute, well now one of you can own it!)

To Enter.

i know this bit is boring but please read.

- Must be a follower via gfc

- Leave ONE comment below with your gfc name and email address.

(You can leave your blog or twitter if you prefer)

Extra Entries.

You need to tell me in the SAME comment which of these applies to you, if any.

- If you are one of my original 860 followers, you automatically get +1 entry

- Tell me what your fave post of mine has been +1 entry

- Blogging or tweeting about this gets you +1 entry

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY.

giveaway will close on 13/12/11 at 12pm (NZDT)

winner will be picked at random.

And that's it!

Good luck, and again thank you so much to all my lovely followers. Every comment i get makes me smile :)

Shannon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

OPI Muppets Collection- Divine Swine

2011-11-20T14:28:00.001+13:00

When the OPI Muppets Collection was first released, i had to resist buying all the glitter polishes. I'm seriously obsessed with anything sparkly! I was more drawn to Divine Swine than the others and so that's the one i ordered. I bought the nail varnish from Candy Girl, a site which i've mentioned in a few previous posts. It was $23.35 including p&p. I really want them all :( but i am saving up my money at the minute, as i'm off to the USA in December and i am planning on buying a lot. Things are so much cheaper there compared to New Zealand, so i've got a rather long list of things i plan to buy :) Maybe in time i will get another one, Gone Gonzo is definitely at the top of my wishlist. I'm not too fussed on the neutral colours in the collection though.

Let me know if you've bought any polishes from the Muppets Collection, what's your favourite? :)

blog ♥: Fashion Fade

youtube ♥: MakeupObsessioNZ

If Only You Existed.

2011-11-15T22:45:00.001+13:00

I was browsing tumblr when i came across the cutest dress. I immediately thought, 'i need that in my life!' You know...as you do. So i clicked on the picture and it directed me to a site filled with adorable dresses. Then i realised, to my disappointment, that these dresses were not real. They had been created via photoshop by a lovely girl called Mela. First of all, Mela you are so talented and if you actually made and sold these, i'm pretty sure you would make a lot of money! I just had to share them on my blog. I love them ♥

click here to check out Mela's tumblr.

I've put together eight above which i absolutely adore and would totally purchase in a shop. Then four below which are more just for fun. I don't think i'd ever wear one of the ones below out but they are certainly cute to look at. The burn book one is my favourite! You can check out all Mela's designs here. She makes some crazy ones and some just cute ones, but they are all amazing. There are also some celebrity inspired ones, like JB and Taylor Swift.

The original dress is from One Teaspoon. You can buy it here.

Let me know what you think of these. I'm sure i'm not alone in loving them ...even if they don't really exist :(
Shannon xx

blog ♥: Yeah It's Shyy, My Silk Fairytale

youtube ♥: maddengirl15, voussontbeauetbelle

I Love Lush At Christmas Time

2011-11-12T14:27:00.002+13:00

I am so excited that Snow Fairy is back. After buying it last Christmas and becoming obsessed, it is one of my favourite Lush products. It smells absolutely gorgeous. It is very sweet and bubblegum like. I personally love it, so when the lovely lady at Lush showed me a new addition to the store, the Magic Wand Bubble Bar that smells very similar to Snow Fairy, i couldn't resist! I haven't tried it out yet so i hope it works okay. It is a re-usable bubble bar so you can 'swish this enchanted snow fairy scented wand around your bath again and again.' It apparently fills your bath with lots and lots of candy scented bubbles, perfect! And it even looks adorable :)

Check out this video about it. Cute!

Do you love Snow Fairy too?

Has anyone used the Magic Wand Bubble Bar?

recent blog ♥: Oh Chlo!, that's so Pheobe

Have a fabulous weekend

Shannon

Makeup and Jewellery Storage

2011-11-10T20:20:00.003+13:00

In my 'welcome to my room!' post, i mentioned i might do this post and a few of you were interested, so this is for you girlies. I just want to say my makeup collection is nothing compared to that of juicystar07 or some of you other girls out there. My drawers aren't piled with mac and i don't have a massive amount by any means, but i still feel the need to say i'm not bragging by doing this post. It's just fun and i love reading them myself :) I live in a rented house which already has furniture in it, so i've had to make do with the wooden vanity for now. If i had my way i would have a white one, something similar to Claire's one here. One day, one day.
Please Note: I have re-organised my makeup table since doing my room post, so that's why things look different here.

I'm not going to go through and show you what is in every single drawer of those little white things, cos that would be very tedious and it's really not that interesting. I just keep all my lipsticks and mascaras in them, and some blushers and eyeliners.
But i hoped you liked seeing a little bit of how i store my makeup and jewellery. I personally love these posts, so if you've done one then please do leave the link in the comments.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Wondercap Review

2011-11-07T21:21:00.000+13:00

I was recently sent some products by the lovely Gail from Wondercap. It's a New Zealand based company but she ships internationally and you can buy the products in some other countries :) If you don't have a flipping clue what a wondercap is, well...

'Wondercap is an inexpensive, simple and luxurious home hair treatment. Similar to a gelpack, you heat your Wondercap in the microwave, before placing on your condtioned hair. The heat from the cap opens up your hair cuticles allowed the conditioner to deeply nourish the inner hair shaft. After rinsing, the cuticles close up locking in the moisture.'

When i first used this, i didn't get results i wanted. I will put that out there straight away. But that's my own fault (explained further down). But on my second try...boy was i impressed, and i've loved it every single time i've used it since! The products i received were: A Wondercap, 200ml Guardian Angel Conditioning Treatment and the Microfibre Towel and Comb set. As well as the amazing results achieved while using these, i like the packaging too :)

Here are the five easy steps to get soft and silky hair...

(taken from the wondercap website)

1) Wash hair as normal and pat dry with microfibre towel

2) Comb through the conditioning treatment with wide tooth comb

3) Heat wondercap in microwave for about 2 minutes

4) Place the heated wondercap on head for 3-5 minutes (or longer for intensified results)

5) Rinse thoroughly. And viola! You have gorgeous hair.

One thing i will say that may seem incredibly obvious is actually follow the instructions! The first time i used it, i thought i'd be smart and heat the wondercap before i got in the shower. That way i could just pop out and put it on my head immediately instead of having to go to the kitchen in my towel. Well don't try and be smart like me. By the time i'd washed my hair and done all my other showery bit and bobs, the cap was cold. But being lazy i decided to just put it on my head anyways, hoping it was still warm enough to work. It wasn't. I realise that now after using it some more. Making it very hot, makes such a difference. I hear you say, that's the whole point of it...to be hot. Duh Shannon. No wonder it didn't work first time around!

Also, don't skimp on the conditioning treatment. When it says apply a 'generous amount,' actually do that.

A tip from Gail herself-

'Make sure you use the towel to soak all the moisture out of your hair before you apply the conditioning treatment.This is a step than many people miss out, especially if you are in the shower you tend to wash, rinse and condition. I am positive this is the missing step to beautiful hair. You absolutely must take as much dampness out before you condition otherwise the water is diluting your treatment.'

The wondercap definitely made my hair look healthier. It made it super soft and shiny. I just love running my fingers through my hair once i've used this! You do look a little silly while wearing the cap and it is quite inconvenient having to go to the kitchen in your towel, but it's absolutely worth it. If you have damaged hair, i'm convinced this will work wonders for you. And even if you don't, it will still give it that extra soft and silky feel. I personally haven't really got damaged hair and it's been wonderful for me, so i can only imagine how fantastic it could be if your hair maybe isn't so healthy. The results are amazing. The cap itself only costs around NZ$40 and will last you a long long time. It's definitely worth purchasing.

'Your hair will love you for using this'

You can buy it online here. And if you order between now and Christmas, you will automatically receive the Luxury Microfibre Towel and Comb combo set for FREE!

Please do let me know what you think of this!

Have you used it? Are you planning to purchase it? :)

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Disclaimer- i was sent all the products mentioned in this post for free. but i am not affiliated with this company, nor am i being paid for my review. this was 100% my own opinion. if i wasn't happy with the product i simply wouldn't post about it.

Bye Bye School...Forever!

2011-11-04T20:06:00.003+13:00

Today was effectively my last ever day of school! I still have to go in for exams, prize giving and final assembly, but i never have to attend school classes again. I'm a mix of emotions right now. In a way i am super happy as i have been wanted to leave school for the longest time. But on the other hand, it's quite scary thinking about what's next for me.

As you all know, on the last day of school you generally do something silly or different. In my school, we, the Year 13's walked around with sashes and tiaras on all day. We each had a 'Miss' something written on our sash, and i was 'Miss Pink.' It was really cute. We had a barbecue at our principals house for lunch and we each got a rose, before returning to school to find the Year 12's had decorated our common room based on the movie Mean Girls. The walls were covered in pictures of us and quotes from mean girls, as well as things the Year 12's had written about us, like the Burn Book (except nice things!). And there was also a pinata, lots of balloons and other cute decorations. There were other pranks going on around the school and it was just a fun last day.

Now i'm just dreading my exams. But once they are over, i will be free until March when i start university! It's going to be an amazing Summer.

I just thought i'd share this with you all :) if you've finished school, i'd love to hear what you did on your last days and how you felt about leaving.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

(note:the school years work differently here in new zealand. the school year starts in february and ends in november/december time, as opposed to starting in september and ending in june/july time like it does in the uk or usa etc. so i am effectively six months ahead of what i'd be if i was still living in northern ireland)

Love Me or Hate Me: Mac Myth

2011-11-03T22:12:00.002+13:00

I had been thinking about buying a mac lipstick in Myth for some time, but i was unsure as i'd heard some people say it was the worst lipstick they'd ever used and others saying it was the best. Mac lipsticks cost NZ$40 where i live, which is rather steep and i didn't want to buy it and then realise i hated it. And yes i do realise i could have gone to my mac counter and tried it out...but the girls at my mac counter, well i'm not so keen on them. I much prefer to go in, get what i want and leave asap. So when i saw Steph was having a blog sale and was selling this lipstick for only $27 including p&p (approximate conversion), i was like yes please! After much drama with payment, as paypal was acting up, i finally paid and several days ago, i received the lipstick :)

(the camera hasn't really captured the colour perfectly as it was kinda dark when i took these)

I am NW20 at mac and this lipstick suits me perfectly. I do understand why it just wouldn't work for certain people though. It definitely works better on my paler skin. When i'm a bit more tanned (fake of course!), it doesn't look as nice. But i think you'll find it's the same with most lipsticks, some shades just don't suit your skin tone. But i'm so happy with this and as you can see, i've used it quite a bit already.
Oh and just a note, my shopping ban is now over and i succeeded :) i didn't spend anything for two weeks! I'm quite proud of myself haha. And yes, i paid for this lipstick before i started my shopping ban.

Please do let me know your experiences with this lipstick, whether you love it or hate it! I'd love to hear your opinions. I will do a proper review of this at some point. And i know i've said that about so many things, i will get round to them. I just don't find reviews as interesting to write about so getting some enthusiasm to write them is hard.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Can i Please Have These Cuties?

2011-10-28T17:30:00.006+13:00

If you know me, you'll know that i love anything cute, so i just put together a little collection of some adorable bits and pieces that i want! I especially love the slipper boots :)

click on the numbers to go to the site where i found these lovelies.
1. slipper boots

2. pj shorts

3. lace cropped bustier

4. laptop case

5. makeup bag

6. earrings

i hope you all have great weekends! i will be snuggled up in bed watching movies and sleeping. doctors orders :)

let me know if you'd like to see more posts like this, where i just put together a bunch of random items that i would love to own.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

{pictures in this post are not mine, but i did put them all together using photoshop}

What i'm Loving Lately

2011-10-27T14:05:00.009+13:00

Seen as i've been feeling extremely sniffly and under the weather lately, i thought i'd do a simple post today. One that doesn't involve me having to venture out of the mountains of blankets i'm hiding under in my bed in order to take photos.
(NOT my bed!) photo credit- tumblr.

Listening to songs i used to love as a kid.

Talking to old friends. Looking through old photos.

The fact Christmas is getting closer and closer!

Finding other New Zealanders on blogger and youtube.

Staying in my pj's and doing nothing all day.

Chocolate covered strawberries. Yummy!

THE bag that every blogger/youtuber seems to have.

Nude lipstick. Comfy slipper boots. Bright nail varnish.

That i've got almost 800 followers on my blog :)

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

And for anyone that is interested, my shopping ban is going really well. I haven't spent a penny in a week! Yay :) ...it's possibly because i've been in my bed for the past week, but hey, i still like to think i avoided the temptation of online shopping too! After reading numerous blogs, it seems that so many people are sick at the minute :( so get well soon to anyone that has the sniffles too!

Comfy Clothes, FAQ & Shopping Ban

2011-10-20T19:41:00.001+13:00

Hiya lovelies :)

I am back at school after my two week break. Being in school means i can't really do ootd posts since i have to wear a uniform and as soon as i get home from school i change into my comfy clothes. I cannot wait till university next year, if only for the fact i get to wear my own clothes! So here's a wee picture of me in my comfy clothes as a kind of ootd...

Sweatpants- Abercrombie & Fitch

Hoodie- Victoria's Secret

Fluffy Socks- Primark

Singlet- Cotton On

Just to let you all know, i have added a FAQ questions to my blog. There are quite a few questions on there, so if you are interested in learning about my boyfriend, my friends, what camera i use, why i started a blog, why i moved to new zealand and more, you can check it out here.

Shopping Ban.

After i have paid for the lipstick i am about to buy from a lovely blogger, i've decided i'm going on a shopping ban for two weeks. I need to stop spending money. I'm sure a lot of you who know me will be sniggering right now, thinking how the heck is she not going to buy anything for two weeks, and others of you will be thinking, what...two weeks? That's like nothing! Regardless, this is my aim.

I got this idea after seeing a few of the lovely girls i follow doing their own shopping bans.

This is going to be tricky for me. But i will try my best and if i succeed, i will not only have the satisfaction of sticking to something, i'll also have a bit more cash in the bank. I will post updates on how i get on, but these posts will really be for me so i can see how i'm getting on :) but if you are interested then feel free to read the posts, and also if you are currently on a shopping ban, let me know!

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

Welcome To My Room!

2011-10-17T18:33:00.005+13:00

In my recent posts, a few of you have commented on my bedroom. And in my last post, i had someone ask for a room tour. I actually did one of these when i first started my blog, but my room has changed a lot since then, and i've actually deleted that post now anyways. So i thought it would be a cute idea to do one again :) it's not my whole room...it's more just snippets of various parts of my room. But hopefully you'll like it and get the idea of what my room is like.

And i kind of have to say this, but i'm not bragging or showing off my stuff blah blah. To be honest, there's nothing to even brag about. But yeah, i just feel the need to say that. And if you are going to be mean, then just click the wee 'x' in the corner of your screen please :)

I'm the kind of person who tidies their bedroom for fun. Yeah i know, a bit dorky. But i love looking for new ways i can store my stuff.

If you guys would like to see something in more detail then just say so in the comments. I was thinking of doing a 'how i store my makeup' post, so if you'd like to see that then let me know. Maybe a wardrobe tour too?

Well anyways, i hope you all have fabulous weeks :)

Oh and if you've shown your bedroom on your blog, please leave the link. I'm super nosey and i'd love to check it out!

Also, i've just started using twitter. I've had it for ages but i am finally getting round to using it properly. So if you fancy hearing about my pointless thoughts and what i'm getting up to, you can follow me here.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

Hair- Products And Routine

2011-10-15T18:14:00.005+13:00

People often ask me questions about my hair. So i thought i'd do a kind of 'frequently asked hair questions' post today, as well as my everyday hair routine. I don't do anything particularly special with my hair but hopefully it will answer any questions people have asked me.

So here's what my hair looks like today:

First of all, my must have hair products are...

hairdryer- remington

straighteners- ghd

Washing my hair...

- I use TRESemme Healthy Volume Shampoo and Conditioner :)

- When i was younger, i used to think the whole 'rinse then repeat' thing with shampoo was stupid, but it seriously makes a big difference. So i do that, and then i apply a tiny bit of conditioner to my ends and leave it for about 3 minutes. I know some people don't use conditioner but i really recommend that you do. Personally if i don't use it, my hair just feels really dry.

- After conditioning, i squeeze my hair to get rid of the water. And then i apply a nourishing care cream which my hairdresser gave me. I don't know what the actual name of it is, but it's pictured below (the orange one).

- Every couple of weeks, i use the silver shampoo from L'Oreal to keep my highlights looking nice and prevent my hair from going yellowy.

- After washing my hair, i towel dry my hair.

If i want my hair to have the wavy effect to it (like in the picture above), i use...

Toni&Guy Heat Defence Spray

and Toni&Guy Beach Curl Spray. With the beach one, i spray it and then scrunch my hair and just work it through it. It's supposed to give you a 'dishevelled' look.

- After i apply these, i put my hair in four plaits. Yes four. Not really tight ones though otherwise it will just look frizzy. The plaits...well it looks absolutely ridiculous and the very few people who have seen me looking like this will agree with me. But i like the end look so i guess its worth it.

- The only reason i have four plaits is because my hair is so thick. So i have two top plaits and two bottom plaits...i hope that makes sense. But if you have thin hair, then two plaits would be enough.

- Once i've plaited my hair, if i'm going straight to bed, then i don't do anything to it. I just sleep with my hair wet in the plaits and in the morning it'll be dry. But if i'm doing this in the morning then i just get my hairdryer and dry my hair whilst in the plaits.

- Once my hairs dry, i take out the plaits. Apply some more of the beach curl spray and then some hairspray. I use a TRESemme one which has 'extra hold.'

BUT. If i want straight hair, it's a bit different...

I wash my hair in the same way obviously. But afterwards i apply some different products.

- I use the L'Oreal heat protective spray as opposed to the Toni&Guy one as it makes my hair shinier. And when my hairs straight, i just feel it needs that extra shine. I dunno why.

- I then blowdry my hair like everyone else. Nothing special there. Afterwards, i wait like 10 minutes before straightening my hair. And once it's all straight, i use the kms california flatout anti-humidity spray. It just keeps it straight for the day :)

And that's it, the two ways i do my hair! I rarely curl my hair because i just can't to be perfectly honest. I have to get my hairdresser to do it.

Answers to FAQ's

- I'm a natural blonde but yes i do have highlights.

- No i don't wear extensions.

- I have been growing my hair since i was 14. I just get a trim every few months.

- I hardly ever straighten my hair. I usually just sleep with my hair in the plaits. It also means that i don't use much heat on my hair.

- I wash my hair every other day.

I am not telling any of you that you should use these products. They are simply the ones i use at the moment and i am happy with how they work for me. I'm sure there are much better products out there which would work wonders for my hair, so let me know if you use something that you think would work for me.

I'd love to hear your recommendations :)

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Ahoy There!

2011-10-13T19:42:00.001+13:00

Today was quite a lazy day.

- I got up at 9am and went to have coffee with my grandfather and mum.

- Then i popped to my boyfriend's house and we chilled for a few hours.

- I did some revision when i got home.

- Going to spend the evening replying to emails, reading blogs and looking at online shops.

This is what i wore for the day....

Sorry my OOTD's are pretty...well crap. I'm trying, but let's face it, my outfit posts are never going to be at LLYMLRS level! But you guys get the idea :)

Top- Temt

Black Jacket- Dotti

Skirt and Black Tights- Cotton On

Ugg Boots- Priceless Shoes or somewhere like that (UK)

Bracelets- Bf's mum

Necklace- Thomas Sabo
Each of my nails is painted a different shade of pink.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

This Or That Makeup Tag...

2011-10-06T22:42:00.001+13:00

Thank you so much to the gorgeous Melanie from Beauty and Bows who tagged me to do this :) I really enjoyed reading her answers to this little tag and i'm looking forward to doing it myself. It's quite long though so i will try and keep my answers short.
photo credit- tumblr

Makeup:

Blush or Bronzer? I don't wear blush everyday, so bronzer. It's a must have for me.

Lipgloss or Lipstick? Oh that's tricky, i love both! But i'll go with lipgloss.

Eyeliner or Mascara? Mascara, definitely. There's no way i could live without this.

Foundation or Concealer? Foundation.

Neutral or Coloured Eyeshadow? I prefer neutral on myself.

Pressed or Loose Eyeshadow? Pressed. As Melanie said in her answers, loose pigments can be so messy!

Brushes or Sponges? Brushes. I hate using sponges, i don't really have a reason why, i just do.

Nails:

Long or Short? Long.

Acrylic or Natural? I'd like to say natural, but i just prefer the acrylic look.

Brights or Darks? Brights :)

Flower or no Flower? Sure if it looks cute.

Body:

Perfume or Body Splash? Perfume, i love body splash too though.

Lotion or Body Butter? Lotion, but again i love body butters.

Body Wash or Soap? Body Wash every time :) so much more fun than just a bar of soap! Although Lush soap is lovely.

Fashion:

Jeans or Sweat Pants? Sweatpants. I rarely wear jeans- they look horrible on me.

Long Sleeve or Short? Long, but only because i don't like my arms :)

Dresses or Skirts? I only wear dresses at night to parties etc. But i often wear skirts.

Stripes or Plaid? Stripes.

Flip Flops or Sandals? I never wear either of them, but i guess flip flops.

Scarves or Hats? Scarves.

Studs or Dangly Earrings? Studs.

Cowboy Boots or Riding Boots? Cowboy boots, but again, i don't wear either.

Jacket or Hoodie? Hoodie.

Hair:

Curly or Straight? Can't decide, depends how i feel on a particular day. I think curly atm though.

Bun or Ponytail? Ponytail.

Bobby Pins or Butterfly Clips? Bobby pins, although i'm always losing mine.

Hair Spray or Gel? Hairspray.

Long or Short? Long. I love having long hair, i don't think i could go short again.

Light or Dark? Blonde. I've never had another colour hair though, so i dunno, i could love dark hair...

Side-swept Bangs or Full Bangs? Side-swept. I had a full fringe when i was younger, but i couldn't pull that look off now!

Up or Down? Down. I have to have my hair up for school and i hate it.

Random:

Rain or Shine? I love listening to the rain outside when i'm all cosy in my house, but if i have to go somewhere, then shine.

Summer or Winter? Winter. I know that's weird, but i love it.

Fall or Spring? Fall.

Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate :)

I tag....

bellissima

catfights and broken heels

lalalucy1000

lucyy writes.

sophie isobel

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

New Lipstick Love- Mac Hue

2011-10-02T20:04:00.002+13:00

I've read so many reviews about Mac's lipstick, Hue and everyone seems to love it, so i finally gave in and purchased it myself. I had also been reading Rachel from Glimmer and Glow's blog post on Hue before i went shopping, and so i think that's partly what influenced me to go for this shade. So thank you Rachel! :) Now i can totally understand why everyone's always raving about it! I've had it for like two days and it's already my new favourite lipstick. It's such a gorgeous colour.
To be honest though, my camera hasn't done a great job of capturing the colour. But i'm sure most of you are well aware of what it looks like :)

What's your favourite Mac lipstick?

Have you tried Hue?

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Cute Purses

2011-09-30T11:19:00.002+13:00

I bought these two cute little purses a while ago, originally as birthday presents for friends, but i wasn't sure of their addresses and by the time i got round to contacting them it was too late. I'm not sure whether to keep them or save them for something else...I was thinking of doing a giveaway on my blog soon anyways, so maybe i could give them away then :) i will have so think about it.

But aren't they so cute?

They were on sale so i think i got them for $10 each, from Equip.

Handbag Beauty Awards 2011

If you lovely girls think my blog deserves it, i would be super duper happy if you'd nominate me :) thank you xoxo

Just click here to go to the nomination page.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

*this is a scheduled post

Thoughts For Tonight

2011-09-25T22:05:00.002+13:00

photo credit- tumblr

Dance. Sing. Be silly.
Say thank you.
Make mistakes.
It's okay to feel insecure.

Stop worrying so much about the future.

Things aren't as bad as they seem.
Life is nothing like the movies.

There's always someone better than you...

But there's always someone worse too.

Enjoy being young.
Be happy.
Be you.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

Shopping On A Sunday

2011-09-18T16:13:00.001+12:00

I picked up a few things today...

Since the men in my family have headed off to watch the rugby, mum and i thought we'd have a girly shopping day.

Creamy Candy Bubble Bar

Rimmel Bronzing Powder

Bikini- Cotton On

Striped Jumper, True Love Top and Jeggings- Valley Girl

I feel with jeggings, you either love them or hate them. I've never owned a pair before so i thought i'd try them out. They were only NZ $13 so if i decide i'm not a fan, it's not a big deal :)

My boyfriend's mum actually gave me the two cosmetic bags and clairins products above. Her beautician gave them to her, and she passed them on to me, how sweet! :)

I hope you all have had lovely weekends!

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Shannon

Thoughts For Today

2011-09-16T14:55:00.004+12:00

♥

photo credit- tumblr

Be nice.
Smile. Laugh. Cry.

Stop worrying about what they think.

Remember the compliments, forget the insults.

Say i love you. Often.

Don't be ashamed of how you feel.

Spend time with your family.

It's okay to say no.

The 'cool' kids won't be cool forever.

Just because she's pretty, doesn't mean you aren't.

Things will always get better.

Don't waste time with jealousy.

Regret nothing.
Do what you want.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Shannon

Inspiration Books

2011-09-13T18:00:00.003+12:00

I used to have a huge box filled with pages from magazines. I would rip out pages of clothes i liked or wanted to buy, makeup looks i wanted to try and hairstyles i loved. But the problem was, i'd take them out, throw them in a little pink box and never look at them again. So my 'inspiration box' as i liked to call it, wasn't really any use. One day, i thought, why don't you just stick the things you cut out into little books. It the simplest, yet most effective idea and can't believe i didn't think of it sooner. Now i just pick up my little book and have a flick now and again. If i see a makeup look i like, i can try it that day, easy :) it's not a very original idea and i'm sure a bajillion other people in the world do this, but hey, i thought i'd share it with you anyways.

I have currently made two books. One is for makeup, fashion and beauty ideas, and the other is for interior inspiration. I am absolutely in love with decorating and interior design has always interested me.
So here's my 'inspiration' books. The one on the bottom is the inside of the interior one, and on top is the front cover of the makeup and fashion one.

How to make your own book...

all you need:

Heaps of magazines (as you can tell, Cosmopolitan is my favourite)

A book which you can cover in pictures

Scissors and Glue

Cut out the pictures you want and make a cute front cover, then you are ready to add inspiration on the inside pages :)

Let me know how you store inspiration and ideas from magazines :) do you just mark the pages or throw pages in a box? Or do you do what i do?

xxx

Cheers To The Freakin' Weekend...

2011-09-11T20:40:00.001+12:00

I went to WoW (World of Wearable Arts Show) on Friday night with my friend Sophie and our mums. If you aren't from NZ, then i doubt you'll know what this is. But if you click here, you can visit the WoW website and it'll tell you all about it. You can also see some of the fabulous costumes here. Unfortunately cameras are banned during the actual show so i couldn't take my own pictures :(

But here's my outfit of the night...

Leggings- French Connection

Animal Print Top- Supre

Black Singlet- Victoria's Secret

Leather Jacket- Wild Pair

Black Cardigan- Logo

Black Wedge Boots- somewhere in the UK, can't remember where

Bag- Paddy's Market in Sydney

Hair bow- Equip

On Saturday :)

Shopping with mum

Brunch with my parents and Gramps who is visiting from Wales

Statistics Revision with my boyfriend

Dinner and a movie with my boyfriend and his parents :)

Here's what i bought on my shopping trip...

Bloom Eyeshadow in Butterfly

I will do a review of this soon.

(The mini mascara and face cream were free samples.)

On Sunday :)

Revision as i have mock exams starting tomorrow. Wish me luck, I'm going to need it!

It's the Rugby world cup here in NZ at the minute and Wales are playing South Africa tonight, so considering my parents are Welsh, i popped to town in my red rugby shirt to join all the Welsh supporters in the pub. Unfortunately i didn't get to watch the actual game, so it's currently 8.30pm and i'm sitting on my bed writing this.

I hope you all had fabulous weekends!

I love you all <3 xx

Shannon

Let's Dance

2011-09-04T18:21:00.004+12:00

Yesterday it was my school dance so i thought i'd share what i wore and a little bit about the night. First of, i'd like to apologise because the majority of photos i got were completely useless. I'm not photogenic. I also seem to have a problem at getting any good photos at school balls, it's been the same every year, all the photos have been hopeless. All the photos with my face looked ew, so i'm not posting any of those. But you can see my shoes, dress and hair :) My makeup was pretty neutral anyways- just the basics. Nothing fancy.

I know the picture on the left looks a little weird, i was trying to fix the button on my boyfriend's suit! But as odd as it is, i thought it showed my hair well.

Below are the shoes i wore and the detail on the dress :)

My boyfriend did the sweetest thing! He asked me if i wanted a corsage, but i told him no it was okay because they are so expensive and fall apart really easily. So instead, he surprised me with these gorgeous flowers!

The night was actually really fun. The theme was Moulin Rouge, and despite the fact it was held in the school canteen, they did a great job of decorating. Everyone looked so gorgeous! It's always really cool to see the people you usually see in school uniform everyday, all dolled up and pretty :) i've got another ball coming up at the end of the year- The Leavers Ball. Let's hope maybe for once i can get some decent pictures at that one.

dress and fluffy jacket- boutique store in Sydney

shoes- boutique store in Auckland

Shannon

A Peek In My Makeup Bag: August

2011-09-02T18:09:00.005+12:00

I change what it's in my make-up bag all the time, but for the whole month of August i pretty much used the same products. To be honest i've been a bit unadventurous with my makeup recently.

Oh also, i am in desperate need of a new foundation, i'm running very low! So i'd love it if you left your favourite foundation (doesn't matter what brand) in the comments so i can check it out.

*please note, this isn't all the makeup i've been using. i keep my concealer and bronzer in my ordinary bag, and will sometimes switch up my lipsticks and lipgloss.

I've had this makeup bag for about a year now, and it is absolutely filthy as you can kind of see in the picture! It's from Peter Alexander, an Australian/New Zealand shop which sells the cutest pj's! Click here to check it out.

left to right: sigma blending brush E25, australis foundation brush and dior blush brush.

I really need to give these a wash. I'm really terrible when it comes to washing makeup brushes.

Bourjois Blush in 48 Cendre de Rose Brune and Revlon Lipstick in 003 Mauve it Over

The other items in my makeup bag are:
lancome teint idole ultra foundation, stila eye shadow trio in bronze glow, sexy mother pucker extreme plump lipgloss, 2true lipgloss in 6, furless eye pencil sharpener, 2true liquid eye liner and maybelline eye pencil in black.

Have a fabulous weekend everyone :)

I actually have my school ball/dance tomorrow night which is really exciting, so hopefully i will have some pictures up of my dress etc shortly. Until then, i love you guys. Seriously, to every one of my followers, thank you <3

Shannon xx

DIY- Simple Crop Top

2011-08-23T18:26:00.004+12:00

On the weekend, in between doing homework, shopping and hanging out with the boyfriend, i attempted to make my own crop top. I've seen so many of these DIY projects, i really wanted to give one a try myself. Now i am possibly the most uncreative person ever...i even failed Art in Year 10. So please no sniggering at my creative attempts :)

So here's what it looked like originally. It was a dress and cost me about NZ$10 i think. I'd had it for two years and never worn it so figured it wouldn't matter if i ruined it.

I just chopped the length off and then tied a little knot on the side. I also made the back much lower but you can't see that in the pictures.

This was really simple to do. And coming from me...well that just shows how easy it is. I am going to attempt some more of these DIY projects in the near future. Okay so something like this isn't exactly going to score me a place on Project Runway, but hey, for a first attempt, i don't think it turned out all that bad. And i've turned something i never wore into something perfect for the upcoming NZ Summer :)

Have you tried any DIY projects lately? Leave the link, i'd love to check it out. Maybe it'll give me some inspiration to try something a bit more daring out next time!

Love Shannon

Victoria's Secret Fragrances

2011-08-22T19:08:00.002+12:00

I am currently loving the Victoria's Secret Fragrances :)

Okay...so i've only actually got three at the minute, but i love them all, and am planning to buy a whole bunch more when i'm in America over Christmas.

My dad bought me two of these when he was in the USA, and i bought one myself at Sydney airport. The one on the left is my fave :)

Incredible by Victoria's Secret, VS Bombshell Summer Body Mist and Shine Pink.

I find VS postage and packaging a tad expensive, especially if you live outside the USA. But it is worth it, because they have the cutest stuff, and the most amazing smelling fragrances.

What's your favourite fragrance from VS? Let me know in the comments :)

Check out the website here.

Love Shannon

xoxo

Sunshine Award :)

2011-08-19T22:43:00.000+12:00

Taking a break from my Stats coursework (yes, its a Friday night and i'm doing coursework), i thought i'd do the wee tag i received from Kathy over at Make-up is a girls best friend. Go check out her blog. She is a gorgeous beauty blogger from Ireland.

It's called the Sunshine Award.

To accept the award, i have to answer 9 questions and then tag a few other bloggers :)

1) Favourite Colour: Pink

2) Favourite Animal: Giraffe. I think this is possibly because they are so tall and i'm so short, they fascinate me :)

3) Favourite Number(s): 11 and 13

4) What perfume i am using right now: Vera Wang Princess. Been using this for ages and i love it!

5) Something you always wear that identifies you: Um..i quite often have a bow in my hair? And i always wear the same watch and bracelet, but i don't know if that really counts...

6) What's your passion: Beauty and fashion. I also quite like photography.

7) What was the last eye shadow you used: The Stila one i posted about here.

8) Favourite Day of the Week: Saturday

9) Are your nails painted right now: Yes :) in just a nude colour though, seen as i had school today.

I tag...

Sweet as Pie

Kathy Kins

Beauty and Bows

Beauty Is Only Skin Deep

Have a great weekend :) xoxo

Shannon

I Buy Too Much.

2011-08-17T19:36:00.003+12:00

My recent posts have been very much about my own life, with a few posts about trips i've been on and my birthday etc. And i know these kind of posts interest some people, but not everyone. So i thought i'd mix it up a little today and i've just got a haul to show you guys. These are purchases i've made (and some are actually birthday presents) over the recent weeks. I buy way too much.

Mac Lipstick in Saint Germain

China Glaze Nail Varnish in Bahamian Escape

Lots of love,

Shannon xoxo

Happy Birthday To Me :)

2011-08-09T21:15:00.001+12:00

Hi lovelies :)

As some of you may know, it was my birthday on August 4th. It was my 18th and to be totally honest, i was dreading it. Sounds a bit weird right? Most people love birthdays, don't they? I guess i just don't wanna get older. I loved being a kid. There's too much stressful stuff going on these days. But anyways, on a more positive note, although i really wasn't looking forward to it, i did end up having a fabulous day...even if i was in school. When i lived in the UK, my birthday was always in the middle of the Summer holidays so having it at school for the past 3 years, feels a bit odd.

I had to wake up at 7am on my birthday (much to my delight) and opened my presents with my family :) then i headed off to school where i was greeted with four gorgeous bunches of flowers and some cute little cupcakes. After school, my boyfriend came over, and then i went out to dinner with him and my family. It was a really lovely day. And the best thing? My parents gave me the ultimate present when they told me we were going to Sydney for the weekend! But more on that in my next post...

So despite the dread i had for my birthday, it turned out to be a pretty cool day. Today i will just show you some pictures from my actual birthday and i will post my pictures from Sydney in a few days. Enjoy <3

The flowers in my room. It was tricky finding matching vases so i've got a bit of a mixture going on there. Thank you to Megan, Hettie and Anna :) and also Emma, my mum stole your flowers to put in the living room.

Previous two pictures are the presents from my boyfriend :) lots of l'occitane goodies and two new charms for my thomas sabo bracelet.

One of the presents from my brother :) i really needed a new hair dryer, and how cute is that one!? It's from Remington, not sure the make or anything but it's pretty hard to miss if you see it in the shop.

Pink cardigan- Abercrombie & Fitch

Black dress- Jane Norman

Bag- Next

Will post my pictures from Sydney soon. Till then, stay beautiful :) xoxo

Shannon

Sudocrem Giveaway Winners

2011-08-08T17:08:00.002+12:00

This is just going to be a super quick post, telling you the winners of my little giveaway sponsored by Sudocrem. I wrote out the names of all the girls that entered, and then used Random.org to select two winners :)

Congratulations to the winners!

Jessica-May xo

Jasmine1485

I've already emailed them and once they reply, i will post their little tubes of Sudocrem :)

Don't worry if you didn't win this time, i will have heaps more giveaways in the future.

Have a great week

xoxo

Shannon

What's In My Bag...

2011-07-31T13:53:00.003+12:00

I did this tag when i first started my blog, but i am a bit of a perfectionist and if something isn't perfect i get rid of it, so i deleted it. So here i am, doing it again. I personally love these posts, probably because i'm just so nosey and love seeing what other people carry around.

I'm not the kind of person that has one bag that they just take everywhere. Everyday i will just take the contents of one bag and put it in the one i'll be using that day. I have three main bags and i just alternate between them depending on what matches my outfit best.

Here's my favourite bag at the minute and the one i've been using most often:

My boyfriend's mum gave me the bag. She has a huge bag obsession and gave me a few bags she didn't use or want anymore :)

What's in the bag:

my planner

purse

sudocrem

revlon bronzing powder & benefit boi-ing concealer

carmex lip balm

mini diorshow mascara

mini ted baker perfume

hairbrush & compact mirror

the body shop soft hands kind heart hand cream

sunglasses

my ipod & phone (i <3 my ipod case)

lipstick holder- currently in there is viva glam gaga 2 from mac

furless brushes set- it's the one i talked about here

nail file

These are the two other bags i use regularly.

Zebra Print bag was bought for £25 in a wee shop in Neath, Wales

Black Bag was bought in a market in Sydney (can't remember the price sorry). It's falling apart but i still love it.

And that's it :)

If you've done this tag, leave the link. I'd love to check it out.

Hope you are all having a lovely weekend xoxo

Don't forget to enter my giveaway here!

Sudocrem- Skin Care Cream & Giveaway *closed

2011-07-26T11:56:00.005+12:00

I was recently sent three tubes of Sudocrem skin care cream. I have kept one for myself and will be giving away the others to two of my lovely followers. I will tell you how to enter at the end of this post.

Now before anyone has a little giggle as they remember their mother used to apply this to their bottom as a baby, i would just like to point out that this has no mention of the buttocks anywhere on the product. Yes, Sudocrem is famously known as a nappy rash cream but they also have a skin care cream which protects against irritants and helps to remove blemishes. It is clinically proven to help care for delicate skin.

Cheryl Cole swears by this product saying that 'sometimes i use Sudocrem- it really works!' It is fast developing a strong celebrity following with Kimberley Walsh also using it. I say, if it's good enough for celebrities, i think it's good enough for me! :)

To be honest, not to blow my own trumpet or anything...but i'd say i have fairly good skin. The only problem i seem to have is dry skin on my nose and the occasionally spot on my forehead. I've probably jinxed myself now and am going to wake up with a hundred spots tomorrow. Oh well. At least i'll have Sudocrem ;) it has already worked wonders and cleared up the dry skin on my nose. You can use it to soften your knees and elbows too. It's not just for blemishes on the face.

You can find out more about it here.

A little goes a long long way with this. It's very thick and so a little tube will last a long time, as you only need to apply a tiny amount every time. This is definitely something every girl should have tucked away in her bag. Amanda Holden has said it's her 'beauty bargain for killing spots.'

I got sent the little tubes which are perfect and fit into your handbag easily so you can carry it with you wherever you go. Talking of handbags, the Sudocrem Facebook page has an app called Bagology which is tons of fun! All you have to do is like the fb page, select which bag you usually use and it tells you what the bag reveals about you.

Giveaway!

i have two tubes of Sudocrem skin care cream to give away. i will also include a little extra surprise pressie for the winners :)

To Enter:

Follow this blog and leave a comment below with your email address.

Don't just say 'enter me' though, leave something interesting, even if you just feel like telling me the name of your dog.

Extra Entries: (please only leave one comment stating everything you've done)

- Like Sudocrem on Facebook by clicking here. +2 entries.

- Try out the Bagology App on their fb page and leave what bag you selected in the comments below. +2 entries.

Giveaway Open Internationally
Ends 6th August 2011 at 6pm (NZ time)

I will select a winner using Random.org or by putting the names in a hat.

Sudocrem is currently only available in the UK as far as i know and a small tube usually costs around £2. I would strongly recommend this cream to anyone looking to improve their skin.

Disclaimer- I was sent three Sudocrem skin care tubes for free. But i am not affiliated with Sudocrem and was not paid to do this post.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

Trip To Taupo

2011-07-20T20:20:00.002+12:00

As some of you may know, i went away for a long weekend with my boyfriend and parents on Friday. We went to Taupo (a small town in New Zealand). Nowhere fancy. It was just nice to get away for a few days since i'm off school for a few weeks.

I thought i'd just share some pictures of the trip with you today. Hope you like them :) xoxo

Review: Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara

2011-07-14T21:38:00.003+12:00

I know this post won't be everyone's cup of tea, after all, when i did the poll, the thing you guys didn't want to least of was reviews. But this was requested a few times so this post is for those lovely people. If you interested in what i thought of the Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara, keep reading. If not, skip to the bottom of this post just to check out my cute new friend, Spike :)

So lets get started with the review. The vibrating wand? I didn't like it AT ALL. And it's basically the point of the mascara, so that kind of made me feel like it was a waste of money. It's a fair bit more expensive than the regular Maybelline mascaras, and i didn't feel it was worth those extra dollars. The wand didn't seem to make any difference. In fact, i found my lashes looked much thicker and longer when i used it without the vibrationess. (...couldn't think of a better word.) Although the vibrations do help separate your lashes, you can do the same thing just by wiggling the wand as normal. The wand is really just one of those things that makes everyone want this particularly mascara but i can tell you now, it's not worth it. The mascara itself is really good. The formula gives you great volume and length. But i feel you can achieve the same result with most of the other Maybelline mascaras, and for a cheaper price. I don't want to totally put you off this mascara because it will work differently for different people. This is just my honest opinion.
I personally wouldn't repurchase this, and i'd give it 3 out of 5 stars.

Recently, i have been wearing Maybelline Falsies and Stiletto Lash together. I'd really recommend that combination. I remember when my friend's exchange student was here, she thought it was bizarre that i'd wear two different mascaras at the same time. But i figured lots of people do that? It gives you a much better result than if you only use one.

Let me know what you thought of this mascara, if you've used it. Did it work better for you? Or did you feel the same way as i did?

Totally unrelated to anything, i want to show you my cute little tiger, Spike. We had a non-uniform day at school to raise money for our environmental committee, and they were also selling cute animal keyrings and t-shirts to raise money for the WWF. And i bought this cutie :) i thought maybe some of you who weren't so interested in my review might like to meet him ;) ain't he gorgeous?

I am heading off for a wee holiday with my boyfriend and parents this weekend :) i will have some photos of that when i come back.

Love Shannon xx

eBay Nail Varnish

2011-07-11T20:25:00.003+12:00

Hey girlies :)

I know i have been lacking with the blog posts recently. I did actually do one the other day but the extremely poor quality of the photos...well i just had to delete it. I'm such a perfectionist. If things aren't totally perfect, i just can't deal with it.

But anyways. I got two new nail varnishes recently. I bought them off eBay for US $5 each. They seem to be genuine, i can't see any differences between them and my other OPIs, and the quality of the varnish is really good. I know you always have to be careful with eBay, but if they are fake, they are bloody good fakes! The one thing i noticed is that the bottles were a little scratched, but to be honest, that's probably because the parcel was sitting halfway down our driveway when i found it. Thanks wind. (Yeah...i live in a windy place, so we often find our letters and parcels trying to escape.)

So the shades i got were:
Let Them Eat Rice Cake from the Japanese Collection released in 2005

Glow Up Already from the Burlesque Collection released in 2010

You may be wondering, why on earth would i want to buy older OPI shades when they have tons of gorgeous shades out now? And the answer is, i've no clue. It was just one of those urges, when you feel the need to buy something. I'm glad i did though, they are stunning colours.

Let Them Eat Rice Cake is a gorgeous pale pink. I've been wearing it to school recently as it's subtle enough that i won't get into trouble. It only takes two coats to get a good shade and works great with my skin tone.

Do any of you own these nail varnishes? What is your favourite OPI shade?

Love Shannon xx

A Few Award Tags :)

2011-06-29T17:13:00.003+12:00

I know some people hate these posts, and don't really give a toss about the person behind the blog, but i personally like them and am hoping some of my wonderful readers will too. I also felt i had to do some form of blog post after getting a stern word from my friend yesterday at school :P As much as she loves the animal print bow in the last post, she wants something new.

I have received three amazing blog awards recently, all from the gorgeous Melanie at Beauty and Bows. She gave me one a few weeks ago which i never got round to doing, and two just the other day. I seriously recommend you check out her blog. It's so cute and her posts are always really interesting.

The 'rules' of an award is basically to link back to the person who gave you it and then tell 7 facts about yourself. I am not going to bore you with 21 facts about myself, so i'll stick to 7 despite the three awards.

Fact 1) Giraffes are my favourite animal.

Fact 2) I cannot be late. Ever. I'd rather just not go somewhere than be late.

Fact 3) I don't like having my picture taken.

Fact 4) I've become quite the fan of Call Of Duty lately. Blame the boyfriend.

Fact 5) I hate being in a busy place with lots and lots of people. I get frantic. Just ask my mother.

Fact 6) I re-arrange my bedroom all the time. I actually love making it really messy and then tidying it up and re-arranging the furniture. Kinda odd?

Fact 7) I love interior design. I am always googling kitchen or living room designs, or houses. I have a folder on my computer called 'interior inspiration.'

And that's just a little peek into my life :)

I'm sure your life is just complete now that you know these pointless facts about me.

I am supposed to tag 7 people now, but because there are three tags, i am just going to say, if you wanna do any of these tags, then do them! It's a lot of fun :) so i tag all of my readers.

Have a great week xx

A Few Bits And Pieces

2011-06-15T17:09:00.002+12:00

I have been spending a lot of money lately. I just can't seem to stop! But i guess, it's good for you guys reading my blog, as it means lots of new posts :) but it's not so good for me, or my purse.

Here's a few bits and pieces i've picked up in the last few weeks:

Four Mascaras, all Maybelline- Lash Stiletto Volumptuous, the One by One, the Colossal Volum' Express Diamonds and Pulse Perfection

Extreme Plump Lipgloss from Soap & Glory

Two nail varnishes- Maybelline Express Finish in 640 Classic Black and Rubi Shoes in Taupe

Two Barry M lipsticks

Benefit Boi-ing Concealer

I got these two mascaras from NZSale. (The other two pictured in the first photo i ordered online from Boots). NZSale is really good if you are looking to save some cash. They sell everything from clothes, shoes and beauty products to toys and things for your house. The only bad thing about it, is that delivery takes ages. For two mascaras, and a blusher and lipstick for my mum, it took a month.

The Rubi Shoes nail varnish cost me NZ$1.50, originally it's $5. But still, its an amazing price and it's actually a good nail varnish. I love this particularly colour. I don't have any other browns. The Maybelline nail varnish is pretty standard, but i needed a new black one and it wasn't too expensive. I also got it from NZSale.

Barry M lipsticks in 52 (left) and 100 (right).

These are not the colours i would usually buy at all. I'm normally a nude lipstick kind of person, but i guess i was feeling a little daring the day i purchased these...

Well i hope you liked this little haul :)

If you'd like a review of anything, just ask and i will try my best.

Pretty Little Liars

2011-06-14T20:57:00.003+12:00

Hello lovelies:)

Recently i've become obsessed with the TV series, Pretty Little Liars. The characters are all gorgeous and i actually find the storyline really interesting. The four main girls, Hanna, Aria, Spencer and Emily...well, i basically have style crushes on all of them. I love their outfits, both in the show and real life. I have to say Hanna is my favourite though. So i thought i'd just share a few pictures of them with you :) Let me know what you think of them and the show.

Left to right: Ashley Benson - Hanna, Lucy Hale- Aria, Troian Bellisario- Spencer and Shay Mitchell- Emily

*All these pictures were taken from tumblr. Click here to go to my tumblr page.

Who are your style crushes these days? :)

Giveaway Winner!

2011-06-07T22:19:00.001+12:00

Hi guys, this post is going to be super quick just telling you the winner of my Oasis Beauty Goodies Giveaway.

I put the names of those who entered in a wee box, and if you did other things like tweet or were a follower etc, i put your name in more times. I then selected a name at random. I was intending to take pictures, just to prove i did it cos i know how some people get about these things. But i then remembered my father has taken a little trip to Australia...along with the camera! So i'm sorry :( i mean, i could have used a random number generator but i really don't like those, and i didn't want to wait a week to announce the winner.

So i've just gone ahead with this post anyways.

The lucky winner of the At Home Facial Pack is:

Jessica Beautician

She also has a youtube channel here.

Congratulations to her! I have emailed her to inform her :)

I'm sorry to those who didn't win, but i'm sure i will be having another giveaway really soon!

Nails Inc. Haul

2011-06-06T23:26:00.004+12:00

Living in New Zealand, i am often denied of many beauty products that i really want. Nails inc. nail varnish being one of them. I've seen tons of blog posts about this nail varnish and i really wanted to try it myself.

Now without any hints from me, my dad bought me 5 nails inc. nail varnishes when he was in the UK. I swear he must be psychic..

I absolutely love all the colours he picked as well. For a dad, he's pretty good with this sort of stuff! I find the nail varnishes are really good quality, they look beautiful on and you really only need one coat to get good coverage.

From left to right:

union street, hyde park gate, manchester square, connaught square, hoxton

My favourtie is the green one, hyde park gate. It is stunning! And i don't have any other shade like it in my collection. Connaught square is a very close second though :)

Because my dad spent over a certain amount of money, i got a free kensington hand cream which i love. It smells divine and the bottle is really cute!

Which is your favourite shade? And what is your opinion of nails inc?

Rings Rings Rings

2011-06-04T15:28:00.002+12:00

I have been buying quite a bit recently, and my dad just got back from his trip to America and the UK, so i've got quite a few presents too. So expect quite a few hauls coming up :) As happy as i am to have lots of new stuff, i do feel slightly bad at the amount of money that's been spent. That is why i am going to begin selling a lot of my old stuff on eBay and trade me, as well as starting a 'blog sale' part to my blog. But i will tell you more about that once it's set up. I'm not hoping to make heaps of money obviously, but i would like to start saving some for the future.

The other day mum and i went on a wee shopping trip and i bought 4 new rings. I love them all, and were only NZ$5 each. I also bought a pack of 6 stud earrings for $5. I bought them all from a shop called Equip.

Here are the rings:

This is my favourite ^^ :)

Sorry there is no close up picture of the last one but i could not for the life of me get a decent one! It is really pretty too. I have to use it as a thumb ring though as it doesn't fit any of my other fingers.

Hope you like them!

Have a great weekend <3

Getting Creative

2011-06-01T21:57:00.004+12:00

When i first started this blog, i did a few creative posts, for example how to make a lipstick holder. I kind of regret deleting those posts now. If you hadn't already noticed, i have deleted a lot of my older posts, simply because i didn't like them. The pictures for one were terrible and to be honest, i think i sounded like a bit of a weirdo. Maybe i still do...

Anyway, having not done anything slightly creative for quite some time, i decided to make a little collage on one of my walls. After moving countries about 2 and a half years ago, i haven't really had many memories around me, all my old photos and letters were shoved in a box. Now, all my memories are up on my wall :)

The collage is filled with drawings people i have made for me, pictures i love, letters and cards from friends and family and more. Now i know some may think it's a little sad to have your past spread over a wall, but i think you should never forget your past. Memories are important. Nobody can ever take those from you :) I've filled it with things from the present too, for example, cards from my boyfriend and songs he's written for me. I intend to add to it in the future too.

I'm really happy with the end result and thought i'd share it with you :)

I hope everyone is having a wonderful week :)

schnella

Live A Lilly Life

New Makeup Brush Holders

Bathroom Storage

Just An Ordinary Day

A Girl's Life...

Purr By Katy Perry :: Review

All The Cute Things

America Haul #1

Today's Outfit

New Storage: My Favourite Jewellery

What I'm Taking Travelling.

Early Christmas Presents!

New Dior Foundation & Some Freebies

Bedroom Envy

Gorgeous Dresses- The Outnet

Current OPI Faves

A Thank You Giveaway :) *CLOSED*

OPI Muppets Collection- Divine Swine

If Only You Existed.

I Love Lush At Christmas Time

Makeup and Jewellery Storage

Wondercap Review

Bye Bye School...Forever!

Love Me or Hate Me: Mac Myth

Can i Please Have These Cuties?

What i'm Loving Lately

Comfy Clothes, FAQ & Shopping Ban

Welcome To My Room!

Hair- Products And Routine

Ahoy There!

This Or That Makeup Tag...

New Lipstick Love- Mac Hue

Cute Purses

Thoughts For Tonight

Shopping On A Sunday

Thoughts For Today

Inspiration Books

Cheers To The Freakin' Weekend...

Let's Dance

A Peek In My Makeup Bag: August

DIY- Simple Crop Top

Victoria's Secret Fragrances

Sunshine Award :)

I Buy Too Much.

Happy Birthday To Me :)

Sudocrem Giveaway Winners

What's In My Bag...

Sudocrem- Skin Care Cream & Giveaway *closed

Trip To Taupo

Review: Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara

eBay Nail Varnish

A Few Award Tags :)

A Few Bits And Pieces

Pretty Little Liars

Giveaway Winner!

Nails Inc. Haul

Rings Rings Rings

Getting Creative

A Thank You Giveaway :) CLOSED