Fave Five: July 2014

Nude Lips

The first of my favourites for this month isn't so much a product but more of a 'look' that I've loved wearing. If you've read my last Fave Five (click here if you haven't!), you'll know that I hav ealways been quite shy of wearing colour on my lips and am always trying reaching to just a boring lip balm over a lip stick. I must say I've made a lot of progress with this and have often sported my new Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter down the town or out with friends. Although I have been wearing colour on my lips a lot more often, it hasn't meant that every outfit or every occasion suits the limited lipsticks in my make-up collection. I recently retrieved a palette that I haven't really used at all yet which included this nude lip gloss above. I instantly feel in love as soon as a put it on. It also sent me back to my mid teens when all my friends and I were obsessed with lip gloss like this one because, of course, we weren't allowed to wear make-up. What I love the most about this is the subtle shine and shimmer it gives to your lips without adding a colour too intense. It's perfect for not only everyday but also much more dressy occasion when you have perhaps much more dark or dramatic eye make-up, something you don't want to lose behind a bright lipstick. Overall, I have been wearing this beautiful nude lip gloss so much over the last month, this specific one from a limited edition palette I received as a gift from Marks & Spencers so I do believe it isn't available any more! There are so many gorgeous nude lip glosses and lip sticks available for a range of prices from Boots or Superdrug however which I will definitely seek to discover once this has run out!

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay

Having read both The Hunger Games and Catching Fire last year, I couldn't wait to read the final conclusion to the trilogy - Mockingjay. With the reading I have been doing for my school courses, I had been too busy to start this until now. I'm only about half way through the book so far but I am really enjoying the storyline. I love Suzanne Collins' writing and the depth of description she portrays in each novel. The character of Katniss is also an aspect which encourages me to pick up the book each day and it's so interesting reading how the events unfold from her perspective. I can't wait to read further and discover how the book, and the events built in the previous books, end! 

NYC Nail Varnish in Midtown

Painting my nails is something I have very much missed since becoming so occupied with my studies. I find it so relaxing and love spending time choosing colours and creating cute little designs. I've recently been redesigning my nail varnish storage and sorting through the many nail polishes I own that are way past their expiration date! While my nail polishes were away as I created their new home, I borrowed this shimmery pink from my Mum. I instantly fell in love with the colour and knew this would most definitely be one of my favourite things to wear on my nails over the summer. Clothes wise, I wear alot of monochrome but also a lot of pink, so this colour could compliment nearly any outfit. This nail polish, by New York Color, is a stunning bright pink with shimmer running through it to give it a glossy and glamorous edge. I'm known to go bold with my nail colours so this colour was right up my street and steered away from the plain, block colours I have opted for recently. This exact shade is Midtown and as it was purchased a while ago I'm not sure it is still available. I must say however, that I am rather impressed by the brand NYC, as the quality is rather decent for the really cheap price at which these polishes can be purchased. If this colour isn't still available, I would definitely recommend exploring the NYC collection for similar colours or just others that scream summer like this one does (and for half the price of most other brands)!  

Nivea Moisturising After Sun Lotion

My skin is fair, very fair in fact, so sun burn is always something I seem to struggle with as the summer months begin and the sun starts to make an appearance. Therefore, I often seem to strongly rely on an 'after sun' to apply after I have spent long periods of time outside. I had been using this one by Nivea prior to my holiday and to that point, it has soothed and calmed the little sunburn I had attracted. When it came to my camping trip in mid-July, I was fairly confident that either I wouldn't need 'after sun', what with all the sun cream I would be a applying, or that Hannah would bring it instead. I was soon to find out she didn't bring any either. Yet, on the second day of our holiday, having gone kayaking at midday, our legs exposed by our shorts and soaked from the sea, we soon came to realise how sunburnt we had become on our legs. I must say this was probably the worst sunburn I have ever experienced, it literally felt like our legs were physically burning. We were quick to run to the local store and buy some of this, Nivea's Moisturising After Sun Lotion, to apply. I was so pleased at how quickly it seemed to cool the burning sensation and although we were still experiencing pain, it was a lot more bearable and the next morning, we could already notice how much of a difference the lotion had made at soothing and fading the burn. After the week or so of using the product, the burn had completely faded into a lovely tan without any peeling. This is quite an odd product to feature in my Fave Five but I had to give it a place after having saved us while on holiday and benefited my skin greatly since!

Camping Holiday with Han

Finally, my favourite thing for the month of July was the holiday I spent with my best friend Hannah. We ventured to The New Forest for 4 days, to camp and explore the surroundings all by ourselves. It wasn't exactly the crazy clubbing experience most teenagers dream of when they finish their exams but I wouldn't have changed a single thing! It was the most fun I've had and we spent the whole trip being silly and laughing. I have written a whole blog post on my holiday: CLICK HERE to read it! Above is a collection of photos from the trip which I love! 

That's all for this month! I can't wait to see what things will be in my top 5 next month, so, until then!

- Becca x

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - RRP £7.99 

New York Color Nail Varnish in Midtown - RRP £1.79 (For the NYC Minute Nail Varnish Collection) 

Nivea Moisturising After Sun Lotion - RRP £10.00 (For 400ml)

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Camping Holiday in The New Forest

Between the 14th and 17th of July, my best friend Hannah and I travelled to the New Forest, a National Park located in southern England, where we were set to camp and explore. It was amazing experience to travel without our parents and families, doing everything on our own and escaping just us two. As I mentioned in my 'This Summer' blog post, we literally had nothing planned, the whole trip would be one big spontaneous idea each day, which I guess didn't really hit home until the night before as I tried to scrape together a bag full of necessities not sure what I might be lacking or not even need.  

DAY 1

We arrived at the campsite in the morning of the 14th. We'd chosen to stay next to the little village of Ashurst, where there were plenty of services in case we needed anything and was a mere 2 miles from Lyndhurst, deemed to be the 'capital' of the New Forest. The campsite was really nice, luckily we'd picked to visit out of peak season so it wasn't too crowded and the staff were very friendly and welcomed us onto the site. The New Forest is famous for its animals that roam freely through the National Park, especially the beautiful New Forest Ponies, many of which wandered happily through the campsite, as Hannah shows in the picture above. We pitched the tent before adventuring off for our first insight into the New Forest environment for a picnic. We came across a stunning woodland which featured not only the famous ponies but also deer and cattle, enjoying the summer weather just as much as we were. The afternoon was very relaxed as we continued on exploring further into the woods. We came across wonderful fields full of life, igniting our excitement to further explore the New Forest over the coming days. We headed back, enjoyed dinner at the local pub 'The Happy Cheese' before settling in for an early night in preparation for the following day.

DAY 2

The night before our second day, Hannah and I had picked up as many leaflets as we could carry to see what we could plan for the next day. After discovering a 'New Forest Tour Bus' with 3 different routes, we settled on seeing where that could take us and what we could do. We caught it early morning, travelling via the 'Green Route' stopping in Brockenhurst, Lymington and Beaulieu. When stopped off in Brockenhurst, we phoned through to a place where you could hire kayaks in Lymington to find out the prices. We then decided we should go for it, without having ever kayaked before or wearing any of the right clothing to do so. We arrived in Lymington and made our way to the quay, where we were set to kayak, or at least try to! After being suited up in our life jackets and mistaking 'dry bag' to be some sort of sophisticated jargon (but literally meaning a bag for our belongings) - the man who helped and served us was most probably awfully worried for us by this point -  we made our way to the water, filled with excitement and nerves. We were both surprised how easy kayaking was and after a little practice we became more and more confident and our two hour adventure began. I am so glad we chose to do kayaking. I must admit, I was nervous and knowing we had no knowledge or experience with kayaking, I was terrified we'd fall out or something, especially knowing our luck! It was so much fun though and I would really recommend it to anyone up for a laugh and adventure with their friends or family! After this, we were quite happy to relax by the river in Beaulieu Village. This was a nice conclusion to a packed day, along with a nice meal at 'The Forest Inn' after which we fell asleep, pretty worn out and sunburnt from all our activities!

*Disclaimer* The animals we petted and took pictures with in the New Forest, we approached with caution and as soon as we saw they were comfortable, went on to pet them. They did not react negatively or appear unhappy when we did so. We didn't do this for every animal we came across and are well aware that some of the animals in the New Forest aren't as comfortable with human interaction as others. Also, although it looks like it in the picture above, I assure you I was not feeding the donkey!

DAY 3

On our third day, we decided to hire bikes locally in Ashurst, something we were certain we wanted to do from first planning the holiday. We cycled the two mile trip to Lyndhurst, the unofficial 'capital' of the New Forest, and upon arrival, were eager to explore the town and environment around. We first greeted a few animals that relaxed by the gates, who gave us a warm welcome into the surrounding land, filled with nature and beauty as far as the eye could see. Shortly after, we made our way down the high street. Lyndhurst boasts lots of cute and quirky shops, as well as a large variety of cafés selling delicious 'New Forest Ice Cream', an absolute must when you visit of course! After enjoying a short exploration of the local shops, a peaceful lunch in the solitude of the open countryside and befriending a couple of adorable donkeys, we headed off for what would be the longest bike ride I've ever experienced. We'd bought a cycle map in the morning and chose a route near Lyndhurst, but also with lots of different options for where to go. We cycled along the path through the woods, our eyes constantly scanning the surroundings for any wildlife. It was so peaceful to cycle through this part of the New Forest, away from the roads and busy tourist spots to simply enjoy the area and beauty within it. We caught sight of buzzards and deer on our adventure while having fun cycling up and down hills - although we are guilty of walking up most of the hills, especially towards the end! - and along the paths under the summer sun. Four hours later, at about 9pm, we finally made it back to Ashurst to return our bikes and placed a rather large order at the local Fish and Chips shop, hungry and thoroughly worn out from our trip in and around Lyndhurst.

DAY 4

We woke bright and early on our final day to give us enough time to put the tent down, pack all our things away as well as get ready for the day we still had planned. Once we'd cleared everything, we said our final goodbyes to the campsite, that had treated us well for the past couple nights, and the ponies, that had kept us company - one even poked their head into our tent that morning! We planned to visit 'Longdown Activity Farm' for the day, where you have the chance to feed and hold lots of different farm animals. The farm was quite small but there was so much to do. We got to see so many cute animals that were roaming around in the lush weather. It was quite funny how we were seemingly the oldest people there that didn't have children! It was such a fun experience though; I love animals and it was so nice to just spend a day watching all the cute pigs, little ducklings and adorable donkeys happy and doing what they do best. We also saw the smallest and sweetest baby guinea pigs, something I've never seen before, running around in their little pen - trust me, it was far more exciting than it sounds. All in all, the day was much more relaxed and not as jam-packed as the rest, which was definitely for the best as we were quite worn out by this point. We still had a lot of fun at the farm, feeding the animals, bouncing on the trampolines and just acting like big kids for the day! We the made our final trip to the local pub for a refreshing cold drink to cool us down before making our way back home, having had one of the best times ever. 

This little holiday was one I won't forget. If I had to choose one word to sum it up, it would be hilarious! I had so much fun with my best friend and it was a great experience to not only have the chance to choose whatever we wanted to do but also decide it all spontaneously! I really hope I get the opportunity to do something like this again and would recommend each and every thing we did to anyone wanting to get away and explore the New Forest!  

- Becca x

♡

25 Things To Do This Summer | #4 Summer Bike Ride

Edited using Pixlr-o-matic

I used to love riding my bike but, since falling off several years ago, I was too scared to pick up a bike and go cycling again. I didn't even have a bike to encourage me to face my fear and do the activity that I used to love so much. When my friends invited me out on cycle rides, my excuses merely related to my lack of owning a bike than my lack of confidence. A friend of my Nana's had given her a bike that she bought but just hadn't used, asking her to give it a new home. With a positive frame of mind, the bike soon became mine and I was excited to take it out for a ride once exams had finished and summer had begun.

My best friend loves going out on cycle rides and phoned me up a few days ago, asking if I wanted to join her. No excuses now, I thought. I accepted, not only because I was excited to ride a bike again but also to tick the first thing off my 25 Things To Do This Summer list. We set out one afternoon, unsure of what we would uncover on this little adventure.

We cycle down a local cycle track, continued through a housing estate and onto another cycle track. We then faced an overgrown footpath that seemed to take hours to navigate. The nettles hung over the path and, as Hannah cycled on ahead, I could barely see her through all the green leaves that hindered our cycling. Although slightly scary and overwhelming, particularly for me having just reclaimed my confidence on a bike, the end result was worth it. We discovered a little field, littered with sheep and a beautiful river. It was so peaceful to sit there and watch the animals, the soothing sound of the running water a perfect accompaniment for the scenery.

It was so nice to spend a day trying something new. Although I started shaky, I never realised how much I had missed cycle rides and just going on an adventure to see where you end up. Today, we're so focused around technology, sitting on our laptops and smartphones, oblivious to the simple activities with which we can still have a great time. If I've learnt anything from this little outing it's that, although it's easy to stay in your own comfort zone and stick to the things you know you enjoy, taking up an old hobby might surprise you and open up a new window of experiences, even if it's just for a day.

So, when's the last time you did something for the first time?

- Becca x

♡

Fave Five: May & June 2014

Due to revision and exams, I didn't have enough (or enough to talk about) for a Fave Five at the end of May. So, this post will be featuring five things I've enjoyed over the past two months, rather than just one. So, here we go!

My first favourite is something I have been addicted to over the last couple of months. It is a website and app called The Hunt. I first heard about it through watching one of Tyler Oakley's videos and the concept immediately appealed to me. For those who aren't familiar with The Hunt, it is an easy way to find clothes, make-up or other items that you've seen someone wear or you've seen in a Youtube video, for example, but aren't sure where you would be able to purchase the product yourself. The online community help you find the products you're hunting for and likewise, you can help them! I am constantly taking pictures of the TV or of my favourite Youtubers when I see an outfit I love and this site has helped me to find and discover so many items exactly the same or similar to those I am hunting for! I have really enjoyed how quick and easy it is to upload a picture as well as the freedom given to all the members to help one another. I must say I've contributed to more hunts than I have actually started but that's what makes this website so great, the fact you can help others too! I would truly encourage anyone who loves fashion, shopping and styling to give The Hunt a try through either the website or the free app from the App Store!
Click here to give my profile on The Hunt a look and feel free to follow to see my future hunts! 

Superdrug Tea Tree Cleanser and Toner

This next product was a gift I received from my lovely friend Katie. We had both been discussing what different beauty and skincare products we really wanted to try and start using and, after mentioning how I would be very interested in experimenting with a facial toner, Katie gave this to me to see what it was like. On first opening the lid of the product, I could smell just how strong it was and I should admit that to start, I was a little scared to use a product that seemed so strong on my skin which is fairly sensitive. This being said, I am now, and have been for the last couple of weeks, using this cleanser and toner 3 or 4 times a week without fail. My skin felt so soft, smooth and clean after using this for the first time and I was blown away by the exceptional results that appeared almost straight away! This product does everything it says it will and it was incredible to see just how much make-up and dirt isn't actually removed when you take it all off at night. I also found this Superdrug Tea Tree Cleanser and Toner to help reduce redness, blemishes and possibly scarring from spots. My skin was beginning to pay the price for the increased temperature and humidity levels that the summer time welcomes as I was experiencing a few more spots than I was used to. I believe using this, however, really helped to make my skin feel fresh and completely cleansed and I am so glad I started using it. What's more, it isn't at all expensive and, in my opinion, worth every penny! I do wish I had started using a facial toner earlier than I did and would recommend that it is incorporated into your skincare routines because the benefits are incredible! I would suggest, however, that those of you with very sensitive skin to opt for a product not so intense and strong such as the Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner, of which I am also a fan!

Lace Frill Socks

 This next Fave Five item is rather different but nonetheless something I have loved as we roll into the summery weather. I picked up this pair of frilly lace socks (as well as a pair in white) from Primark a while ago. I thought they looked really cute and reminded me of my childhood when I used to wear my little frilly socks to Primary School. For the many months that followed this purchase I never wore the socks at all. I guess I was just not sure what to pair them with. However recently, teamed with a pair of hightops, these socks have been some of my favourite things to wear to make me feel really cute and summery. I have loved wearing these with the hightops with just the little frill peeking out over the top but believe they would look just as adorable with a pair of brogues or boots and I am excited to try different fashion combinations this summer. I have also received lots of compliments from friends, asking where I bought my little socks. Although I picked mine up, rather cheaply I must add, from Primark, I am sure they are available from a variety of other highstreet shops including New Look and Topshop and are available in all different colours too!

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake

I have seen a lot of praise for these little lip butters from Revlon and had intended on buying at least one when I had the time to venture into Boots. So, once my exams were finished, I picked up this Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in the colour Strawberry Shortcake which is a cute pink colour. One of the things I love about these lip butters is the wide choice of colours they have available which in turn, encouraged me to spend about 30 mins deciding which colour to get. I never tend to wear any colour on my lips and am quite happy with just lip balm to make sure my lips stay hydrated. Yet, I really want to start wearing lipsticks and lip glosses that give my lips some colour and appear to dress me up a bit more. I wear a lot of pink as well as a lot of monochrome so I thought this colour was perfect. What's more, it's not too vibrant or shocking for my first proper taste of lipstick and could easily be worn on a daily basis, which I love. This pretty light pink colour also compliments my very fair skin complexion and applies really well onto my lips. These soft lip butters are beautiful and I would recommend them to anyone who wants a pretty lip colour without the strong intensity of a lipstick, something I was very scared about! Knowing I'd never really worn lipstick, I was scared that something like this wouldn't suit me and might be a waste of money but I was really pleasantly surprised and have worn this product almost every time I've gone out since I bought it, even if it's just down town!

Sandals from BHS

I am absolutely in LOVE with this final item of Fave Five. I have never really owned a pair of sandals which, as shocking as it sounds, just makes this purchase even more exciting. I knew that this summer would be a special one and I would be going out and doing a lot more things with my friends, so why not look the part too? When looking for a pair of sandals, I was in the position of knowing exactly what I wanted and not prepared to settle for something that didn't meet those requirements. I visited a lot of shops on many different shopping trips and found a few pairs, but nothing that caught my eye like these did in BHS. The colour is a soft tan and the little gold details make these sandals look really pretty. The colour is also something that could be teamed with almost any outfit. I really love that the buckles fasten above the ankle and the shape fits my small and narrow feet! Overall, I just love these sandals and I really don't think I can say any more to tell you that! I'm so glad I found this pair and can't wait to wear them this summer.

Hope you've enjoyed reading about my favourites for the past 2 months. The theme was very summery and hopefully you'll be inspired to try some of the things I've mentioned and will love them too! See you soon!

-Becca x

The Hunt - https://www.thehunt.com/
Superdrug Tea Tree Cleanser and Toner - RRP £3.29 (for 200ml)
Simple Kind to Skin Soothing Facial Toner - RRP £2.99 (for 200ml)
Frilly Lace Socks - £1.50 (for 1 pair) from Primark
Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake - RRP £7.99
Tan Sandals - RRP £20 from BHS

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This Summer

Summer boasts itself as one of the best times of the year for almost anybody. And why not? The beautiful weather, the time spent with family and friends having picnics or down the beach, the ice cream, the barbecues. Above all, however, it's a break. Of course not everyone will experience the weeks free from education children do, we do all get a bit of freedom. An escape from the day-to-day life that almost consumes our ability to experience the little wonders of the world. Whether you've got the whole 6 weeks of summer to enjoy, a week holiday away with your family or simply a chance to sit in the park on your lunch break, summer brings new opportunities each year and a new chance to be free. Above all, that's why I love it.

But I find myself in a different and rather odd position this year. It's mid-June and my summer has already begun thanks to the conclusion of my exams and those of my friends. Yet this year, for the first time since aged about 4, I have no school to look forward to or to draw my summer to a close in September. I have no uniformity to follow in my life. No structure. So, this summer is much different to any before and I plan to make it one I'll never forget.

This summer my friends and I will spend together before setting off to not only different parts of the country for University, but even different parts of the world on gap year experiences. I know this won't be a 'goodbye' to all my friends when summer is over, but I may well be for some, or at least until the next summer rolls around when I, myself, will be starting preparations for heading to Uni after a year break. So, with our last taste of freedom from education, this summer I'll be making unforgettable memories with friends. Whether it's partying, clubbing or pubbing or even just sitting in the park or down the beach, enjoying each others company, I can't wait to spend it with all the friends I love and am so grateful to have them.

Another first for me this summer will be my holiday which, for the first time won't be with my family, but with my best friend. While all the other British teenagers (including many of my friends) jet off to Greece or Ibiza, my best friend and I will be lying in the comfort of our tent, camping for a few days, and I'm so excited! Apart from our camp-site, nothing is really planned which is even more exciting. Being spontaneous is one of the best things to do and something I really can't wait to do more of over the coming months.  

Finally, this summer I want to break out of old habits and move away from my comfort zone. It's so easy to stick to what you know and never step away from this because you're happy that way. Of course I'm happy in my little comfort zone but I have no idea what I'm missing because I'm not out there experiencing it. There's a little quote that I'm going to try and employ in my life and everything I do a bit more now: "When's the last time you did something for the first time?" As cliché as it sounds, I have changed so much since last summer, my confidence constantly growing. So, I'm not going to hold myself back this year. I don't want my shy and reserved nature to hold me back, because this summer will be different so, why not?

All-in-all, I hope the warm weather and freedom this summer brings sparks new opportunities and I can't wait for them all to begin. I also just want to add that Alfie's (PointlessBlog) Video has inspired me to note down 25 things I want to do this summer and not only share them in my own little notebook, but also here on Beccaful digitally. Now, I haven't decided if all my 25 things will be shared on here, but some of the most fun and best activities will be!

I hope you're looking forward to this summer as much as I am. It's easy to sit inside and enjoy your break watching Youtube videos or chatting on Facebook but I encourage each and every one of you that reads this to go out and try something new. Whether it's on your own or with all your friends, like I said, you never know what you're missing out on until you try it! Hope you all have a wonderful and well-deserved summer break!

- Becca x

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Fave Five: April 2014

'Fave Five' is a new series of blog posts which I will be starting on Beccaful. Hopefully I will be able to update this as a little extra each month with my favourite five products, foods, films, songs - anything! - of the month. So, without further ado, here we go with the month of April. Enjoy!

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer 

This concealer was probably one of the most talked about for it's amazing coverage and exceptional price and so, I was eager to purchase it when I first started wearing concealer last year. Although I didn't 'discover' this concealer this month, it was one of the products I repurchased and I was quick to remember why I loved it. As a person who doesn't wear foundation, I have high expectations of concealer to banish the dark circles under my eyes that I am, admittedly, self-concious about, as well as any blemishes without the need for an excessive amount of product. What I have found with this concealer is a little goes a long way and it is so easily blend-able. It would personally say this product is more suitable for dark circles and redness over use for blemishes and spots but I don't tend to suffer too greatly with spots and so think this is perfectly suited to me. What's more, with my very pale complexion, I am often fearful of skin products appearing too dark or 'orange' for my fair skin tone. Yet, using this product in it's lightest tone, No.1 Fair, it blends easily into my skin, masking my insecurities without the drawing attention to the wearing of concealer. I would also support its bold statements of being 'long lasting' and have found it particularly durable as I have started going on nights out a lot more often. I could probably write an entire essay on this concealer but I'll leave here: Collection's Lasting Perfection Concealer is possibly the best on the high-street and I would encourage anyone in need of a new concealer to purchase this one!

Hollister Tidelands Beach Body Mist

This is the first of two products featured in this post that I purchased in New York. I was torn on buying this body mist but I am so glad I did. I should probably admit that I am not very adventurous fragrance-wise. I don't tend to wear perfume and feel much happier applying a body mist in the morning. This scent is so fresh and beautiful. It's not overly floral or heavy - it's light but lasts without coming across too overpowering. There were so many to chose from but I'm so glad I picked this. Compared to the others, which came across quite sweet, I absolutely adored the pretty and flowery scent of Tidelands Beach. I also love how long it lasts - only a few sprays and you're set; it hardly looks like I've used it and I've had it 2 months! On top of this, the bottle is really nice and big so it will last me a long time. All in all, although it's not as powerful as a perfume, this beautiful scent from Hollister is definitely perfect for this summer and has got me so many compliments from friends. I love it!

EOS Strawberry Sorbet Lip Balm

This is the second product I have featured that I purchased while in America. I was drawn to buying this product not only because I needed a new lip balm but also the ease of its application. I love the packaging of this product and the twist it puts on ordinary lip balm. The ball-like shape makes the product so easy to apply to your lips and, as for the product itself, smooth and non-sticky are perfect adjectives. The concept differs from competing lip balms such as Vaseline, with the requirement to use your finger to apply the product from a pot to your lips omitted - something I personally love. With a choice of other 'flavours' including Sweet Mint and Lemon Drop, Strawberry Sorbet appeared an obvious choice to me - admittedly also for the pretty pink colour of the packaging. For me, the flavour is sweet and delicious and a bonus on top of the other advantages of this product, but it could be considered a flavour you either love or hate (I have friends on both sides of the fence). The only disappointing aspect is the fact this American product is more expensive to purchase here in the UK compared to the prices available in America! This being said, I would definitely love to repurchase this product which has been a life saver for my lips this month. 

Real Techniques Powder Brush

After using the same powder brush since I started using make-up, I thought it was time to treat myself to a new one and so purchased the Real Techniques Powder Brush. I'd seen a lot of praise not only for this brush but also for Real Techniques as a brand and was excited to be apart of the hype. I am very pleased with this brush, it feels so soft on the skin and powder is applied evenly without looking 'cakey' or thick. It feels luxurious on your skin and is amazing quality for the price it can be purchased. This brush does everything it says on the tin and the quality guarantees its durability and use day-after-day. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a new powder brush!  

Cadbury Creme Egg

Finally, I felt this April edition of Fave Five would be incomplete without acknowledging Easter and so, the final item to make the cut is Cadbury's Creme Eggs! When these little eggs start to fill supermarket shelves, it's clear Easter is on its way and absolutely love them! Sweet, sticky and sickly, they bring back memories of Easter Egg hunts and will always be my favourite treats at Easter time. Yum!

That's all the items featured this month! I hope you enjoyed reading about what I've been loving and the reasons that you should try them too! I'm really excited to start this series and share with you what my favourites will be during the month of May.

- Becca x

Collection Lasting Perfection Ultimate Wear Concealer - RRP £4.19
Hollister Tidelands Beach Body Mist - RRP $6 (Purchased in Hollister in America) / £12 (For
250ml)
EOS Strawberry Sorbet Lip Balm - RRP $4.59 (Purchased in American CVS) / £5.99 (Available online)
Real Techniques Powder Brush - RRP £12.99 

♡

Review: Simple Light Moisturiser

I must have been about 13 years old when I starting using my very first moisturiser. It wasn't even because my friends at school encouraged me but simply because I loved watching my Mum pamper herself with her moisturiser each night. The Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser was the first I ever invested in so, I was keen to revisit it after receiving this little bottle in a set for Christmas. 

The moisturiser I had previously been using was the one that my Mum also used for herself - Ponds Hydro Nourishing Cream. I'd tried different brands including Olay and Nivea but the Ponds moisturiser was thick, creamy and really made my skin feel soft. It was very different to go from these qualities, to those of the Simple Light Moisturiser. 

One of the first things I found when applying the Simple moisturiser is that the consistency is very loose and thin. At first, I assumed that this meant the need for even more product to be used at any one time, to match the thick consistency I had found with Ponds. Yet, I have found a little goes a long way with this moisturiser - very useful to make the most out of the little bottle I have! What's more, it absorbs into your skin really quickly. I have found this particularly helpful in the mornings when I'm getting ready, not having to wait around for my face to almost 'dry' before applying my make-up. The vitamins and lack of perfumes and colours that Simple boasts in all their products is another reason why I love this moisturiser. When applying it to your skin, it feels cool and clean, almost healthy, which makes me so much happier putting it on, knowing nothing harsh in the ingredients will damage my skin.

Overall, I love the Simple collection and this moisturiser so much. I'm so glad I revisited this and will definitely be repurchasing. I think it's a much better moisturiser to use during the day rather than the night for its lighter qualities but leaves my skin so soft and hydrated, there's not much to fault! I'd particularly recommend if you have sensitive skin or if your looking for your very first moisturiser.

- Becca x

Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser - RRP £3.99 (For 125ml) 

Ponds Hydro Nourishing Cream - RRP £3.49 (For 50ml)

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