The 'Super Orgasm' Every Girl Needs

On a recent trip to America (I don't know if I've mentioned it yet?!) I made a significant discovery that was going to effect my day-to-day make up routine forever. This was the sibling to the critically acclaimed 'Orgasm' blush by Nars Cosmestics, the 'Super Orgasm'. While I'm definitely a massive fan of the original 'Orgasm' (which seems near impossible to get your hands on at times - it's that popular) the 'Super Orgasm' suits the paler skin tone perfectly.

The slight sparkle to the blush isn't my usual choice but for some reason I've fallen in love with this product. I'm officially a bronzer to blush convert. Coming in at a sweet £22.50 I've got to say I think it's worth the splurge. Don't be fooled by it's small size, it goes a long way especially considering I've been using it every day (some times twice) since mid June and it hasn't even made an indent yet. This is the kind of product I like, value for money. My only advice would to reserve one brush for your blush to avoid cross contamination with any other products - there's nothing worse than sparkles all over your face (one 90s trend that most definitely hasn't made a comeback). 

Has anyone else tried the blush range by Nars? We'd love to hear your tips!

Alice & Grace xo

The City Break Essentials: New York

Packing for a city break can be a bit of a daughting task if you've never been there before and don't know what to expect so we've decided to share our essentials with you to help you along your way, specifically with summer in New York in mind...

Dainty Jewellery is a must for any city break. A chic look is easily achieved with a few simple peaces, there's no need to pack your entire jewellery box! I'll be packing my Pandora bracelets along with my beautiful new star bracelet from French Connection which has Swaroski infusions (A gorgeous gift from a lovely friend for my birthday). Of course I have to take my Statue of Liberty charm (another present - I'm so spoilt), it would be rude not to! Along with these I'll be taking a few pendant necklaces that will go with everything day or night.

A Selection of Sunglasses as believe me one pair will never be enough. If you're anything like me I'm constantly misplacing or losing mine so I find it best to take a cheaper pair (Top: Topshop, £16) as well as my more expensive Ray Bans. Sunglasses for every occasion I say!

Skincare in the sun is extremely important and often overlooked. I have ridiculously sensitive skin hence the kids suncream - honestly it's the way to go when protecting your skin from the summer heat in New York! I make sure I always carry a smaller suncream with me all day to reapply regularly. Also, when I'm on holiday I try to use BB cream to give my skin a chance to breath and enjoy the healthy benefits of the sun.

Summer Prints are an absolute must in New York. This is one of the places you can get away with wearing pretty much anything you want and I love embracing their summertime culture. I'm taking a selection of Topshop, Zara and Reiss.

Hand Luggage is extremely important. My Michael Kors is perfect as it's deceivingly large with has plenty of pockets inside to hold my passport, phone and all other travel essentials. As well as this it has a over the shoulder strap which is useful for when you're rushing for a subway. Again, it goes with everything so there's no need to pack a ton of different bags.

The Highwaisted Bikini is my best friend at the moment. If you're like me then you perhaps didn't get your bikini body ready for summer in time! I've mixed and matched my set; the top is from H&M and the bottoms are from Topshop. If you're lucky enough to have a pool in your Manhattan hotel then this is a must!

Trainers are key. In New York you walk everywhere, and I mean everywhere, which is part of the beauty of the city. Having said this it does take it's toll on your feet and a comfortable and reliable pair of trainers are going to get you a long way, for me this is my much loved pair of New Balance.

Have you got any tips for New York?! We'd love to hear from you!

Alice & Grace xo

Alice & Grace Love: bareMinerals

I've had a recent conversion and not the religious kind. I was recently in Newcastle Fenwick and decided to try the much recommended bareMinerals. I started off with one of their 'Get Started Kits' which was matched up to my skin tone. The kit costs £50 but comes with the foundation, bronzer & mineral veil (to keep make up in place), a tester size primer (which actually lasts quite a while) as well as a foundation brush, a bronzer brush & a concealer brush. In my opinion that's a hell of a lot for £50. You're also taught how to use it all, which is helpful if you're a novice like me. 

After this I was so impressed I had to go back for more & invest in some of their skin care which would compliment the use of my new foundation. My favourite piece has to be their 'Blemish Remedy' that comes with it's own little brush and costs a very reasonable £15. I can confirm it works wonders.

Since making the change to a powder foundation I can see a massive difference in my skin, it feels so much healthier. The main reason for this is that bareMinerals is completely natural & therefore a lot better for your skin than caking it in chemicals. Has anyone else tried their new skin range or fake tan? Let us know!

Alice & Grace xo

The Hangover Post

To kick things off; a massive happy New Year from both of us, we hope you guys had as much fun as we did! Alas, it's that time of year again & after a bit too much food, drink, partying then a bit more food we're not feeling our best. The detox begins & we're not just talking about the green food & mad exercise regime. It's time for a bit of TLC in your beauty regime as well! Here's a top products for giving your body a bit of a rest & time to revitalise:

Left to Right:

Aroma Salts - Stress Releasing 

For all the uni students out there you'll understand how stressful the Christmas holidays can be. The moral dilemmas you face are just too much: more booze or revision? It's a tough one we know. I got these as a present from my Mum for Christmas along with a Aroma candle. Most people who know me know I'm partial to a bath or two & for me it's the perfect way to unwind.

Origins - Clear Improvement

I try to use this face mask at least once every two weeks all year round to clear out my pores but I've definitely used it a lot more recently. It's a tad pricey at £22 but I think it's worth it. I especially like how it doesn't go rock hard on your skin & is really easy to wash off.

Elizabeth Arden - 8 Hour Cream

This is the holy grail product of all fashion & beauty bloggers. It does everything (well pretty much). It's perfect for this time of year when your skin needs a boost. You can use it on all sorts though, from shaping your eyebrows to giving your cuticles a bit of tender lovin' care. You also don't need very much meaning a tube goes a loooong way.

Lush - Mask of Magnaminty

If you're a regular reader you'll know we've raved about this facemask on Alice & Grace before. It's been a god send these past few weeks as the alcohol has taken it's tole on my skin. This may seem like a bit of a facemask overload but when teamed together the Origins & Lush masks work wonders on tired skin.

What are your post-New Years beauty must haves?

Alice & Grace xo

The Ultimate Christmas Wish List (Hint Hint)

Still not posted your letter off to Santa? Here's a few glorious things that every aspiring fashionista should have in her wardrobe/make up bag (hint hint parents)…

1. Topshop Diamond Jaquard Strap Jumpsuit, £55 ~ link

2. Benefit Brow Zing, £23.50 ~ link

3. Bimba & Lola Forget Me Not Earrings, £45 ~ link

4. Longchamp Le Pilage Backpack, £59 ~ link

5. Topshop All Yours Croc Boots, £80 ~ link

Lots of festive love,

Alice & Grace xo

December Beauty Essentials

With the party season in full swing I've invested in a few key pieces to keep myself look flawless (or as flawless as possible after a few glasses of fizz). Having tried and tested these products over the past few weeks it's safe to say I've found a few new beauty bag staples. 

1. Nip + Fab 'Sheer Make-up Fix', £15.99 ~ link

I usually use the beauty bloggers favourite Benefit Porefection but fancied a change (and to save some cash). To my pleasant surprise I actually prefer this primer to the slightly more expensive Benefit one; it comes out in a clear type cream, smells fresh and sinks into my skin quickly. I've also noticed it keeps my make up in place for much longer than the Benefit primer and I never get that awkward foundation shine - perfect for all those Christmas parties.

2. Topshop 'Glow' Highlighter in Polish, £9 ~ link

I love a good shimmer on a night out - it's uber flattering on pictures when you're slightly worse for wear. I've actually started using this highlighter during the day as well which I never used to. A light sweeping across the cheek bones and just under your eyebrows is all you need though; less is definitely more with this product. If you're into contouring this product will be perfect for you.

3. Kiko Cosmetics Foundation Brush, £14.90 ~ link

We've raved about Kiko Cosmetics on here before and when I saw this foundation brush for a purse pleasing £14.90 I couldn't resist. I've wanted to try this type of round brush for ages after they'd used it on me in MAC but couldn't bring myself to spend too much on one single brush. This brush has completely changed the look of my make up, I now need less foundation (saving me a bit of money in the long run) and have a much more even, flawless and long lasting base. If you don't have one of these already I seriously recommend you go invest…now!

Alice & Grace xo

Behind the scenes: Courier Halloween Photo-Shoot

Directing our first photo-shoot was scary but oh so exciting! And not to mention it was halloween themed, my second favourite holiday (nothing to do with the fact my birthday is around this time)...

Our vision for the setting and look of the shoot was 'These girls are beautiful...but they will kill you.'

Each look had its own inspiration; A mix of black swan, urban vampire and Dracula's daughters.

Check out these behind the scenes shots and let us know what you think.

Directed & styled by: Bex Finney, Frances Stephenson and Amy O'Rourke 

Beauty & hair: Amy Macauley and Safiya Ahmed 

Photographer: Katie Dyer 

Models: Sara Macauley, Holly Suttle and Rachel Aspey 

*If you haven't checked already check out more from the photoshoot online*

Bex 

Alice & Grace Love: Kiko Cosmetics

Always a fan of trying something new there's a definite new favourite beauty brand on the scene. When in Italy I discovered the brand Kiko which is a Milan based company with stores all over Italy & the rest of the continent. I was won over by their ridiculously good prices & their huge range of different products. 

I decided to try their creamy concealer which comes complete with a mirror making it easy to top up on the go (not that I've found I really need to). I'm not usually a fan of applying concealer with my fingers, I normally get a better effect with using a brush but this one was completely different. I went for the palest one (naturally) & found it works a treat for covering all kinds of blemishes. It's pretty heavy duty, which is what I need with my skin tone, but doesn't feel it. It's called their Full Coverage Concealer & it really does live up to the name. Retailing at £7.50 in the UK I'm definitely going to be sticking with my new found favourite. 

Sadly at the moment they only have two stores at the shopping malls Westfield in the UK but there will soon be one popping up at Oxford Circus which is a positive sign for their British expansion. In the mean time they do great delivery deals online which I'm definitely going to be making use of (They also have some pretty fantastic discounts there too). I can't wait to try their Purifying Scrub & Cerulean Blue Nail Polish!

Alice & Grace x

Product of the Week

As you may have noticed we have a slight thing for nail varnish. It's such an easy way to stay on trend & add a little edge to your outfit in a cheap(ish) kind of way. 

Keen to experiment with texture this week I tried out Nails Inc Special Effects 3D glitter polish. Now I'm always a fan of something sparkly (I'm a bit like a magpie) but I wasn't too sure about having a heavy texture on my nails. However, after trying & testing this product I can say I'm officially converted to textured nails. While it's a little heavier than polish I'd normally wear I just love the effect it gives - I've even gone as far as pushing the boat out & putting it on my toes as well.

It's £12, which is a little more than I'd usually spend on a polish but I think it's worth it just this once. It's great for nights out though & perfect for the party season which is just around the corner. 

Anyone else tried the new textured polishes by Nails Inc?

Alice & Grace x

Product of The Week

This week I've been a little blue due to the rain so I decided to make myself feel brighter by painting my nails in this fantastic fluro orange by Hedkandi for Models Own! 

The colour is outstanding (literally), dries within seconds and it doesn't chip easily! Perfect! 

This shade isn't for the shy wall flower as you will certainly get noticed rocking this on a night out because it glows under UV light, what more could you want from a nail varnish!? 

Models Own, Hedkandi

Shade-Hedonist

Product of the Week

I've found my skin saviour at long last. Whenever my skin starts to break out I use Mask of Magnaminty by Lush daily & it truly works wonders. It only takes 5-10 minutes so it's easy to fit in to your beauty routine. It comes in either a 125g tub (as pictured) for £5.25 or 315g for £9.25 which I think is extremely reasonable for how good the product is. I love how it's a freshly made product as well, it even says on the tubs when it was made & who by! So cute!

Alice & Grace x

Autumnal Wish List

As much as I don't want to admit it, autumn is on it's way. While this means saying goodbye to my summer wardrobe (sniffle) it also means I get to start dreaming of the A/W look I will be sporting this year (I say dreaming as I have to wait three weeks until my student loan is in, yup I'm counting down the days). Here's a few of my favourite picks from the new high street season...

Left to Right:

Nars Blusher in Orgasm from Asos - link 

Midi Skirt from Topshop - link

Cut Out Boots from Topshop - link

Biker Jacket from Dorothy Perkins - link

Bug Statement Necklace from Topshop - link

Dungaree Dress from Asos - link

Midi skirts are a great way to embrace the colder season while still looking on trend and this Topshop beauty is to die for, the colour will brighten up any outfit. I've also wanted to try the Nars blusher for aaages. It's raved on about so much I want to try it out for myself, the famous 'orgasm' is top of my list. 

What have you got your eye on as autumn approaches?

Alice & Grace x

Bank Holiday Beauty Fix

So, it's just been payday & it's the August bank holiday weekend. This means one thing & one thing only...beauty splurge (especially considering Boots have a 10 points per £1 offer on at the moment - we know I'm a sucker for advertising). 

As per I couldn't resist Essie but this time I splurged on a new shade 'Tart Deco' & an all important top coat which will help me keep my nails in good condition for longer, so technically it's an economical investment. 

I bought this shade in prep for my holiday in a few weeks, it'll look great in the sun. The top coat will also help keep my toes in tack during all my sight seeing I have planned. See, I told you it made sense!

Essie in Tart Deco - £7.99, Essie Top Coat - £8.99 both from Boots

Kathy x

Product of the Week (end)

Sorry it's a little later than usual gorgeous readers but we have been super busy at A&G but as promised every week this is my top rated product; Montagne Jeunesse Chocolate Infusion hair mask. 

My mum bought me some pamper products recently and since I spent last weekend covered in mud (and who knows what else, shudder) I decided to treat myself to a hair treatment. 

The mask is super simple to use, after washing your hair towel dry and apply the mask from root to tip using a comb to spread it evenly, relax for 5 minutes and rinse! The results are fantastic, not only does it leaving your hair smelling like chocolate it also gives it shine and conditioning for any dry ends.

Bex

The Smart Gals Guide To Being Festival Savvy

I've just been to V-Festival and it was A-mazing! I got to see so many amazing artists, including the flawless Queen Bey! I survived mud, portaloos and a sh*t covered tent (seriously someone took a sh*t on another persons tent). As much as festivals are about showing off your fashion credentials there are important steps you can take to keep your skin and hair healthy and of course avoiding the dreaded festival flu! 

1. Wellies-Obvious but essential! They keep your feet warm and dry as well as being flat so you can stand comfortably through hours of your favourite acts. I opted for Cath Kidson wellies, keeping me looking girly knee deep in mud! 

2. Thick socks-Again essential for keeping your toesies warm, especially if it's raining; keep your feet and head warm and you limit your chances of getting festival flu.  

3. Rain coat-Okay so it isn't the sexiest piece of clothing in your wardrobe but when its chucking it down and your using a programme to keep your hair dry, you will be wishing you'd brought your good ol' rain coat! 

4. Sunglasses-If you're fortunate enough to enjoy some sun at your chosen festival then you NEED sunglasses. There is nothing worse than squinting the whole way through The Script (hello Danny!!) and it's important to protect your eyes from the sun. 

5.Over the shoulder handbag-This is important for carrying the valuables you don't want to leave in your tent; purse, ID,phone...vodka) or alternatively opt for a small back pack. 

6. face/body wipes-the likelihood of having a shower is slim so keep (somewhat) fresh by having a baby wipe bath every morning, mmm fresh! I only use makeup wipes in an emergency but its difficult to cleanse, tone and moisturise at a festival, especially after a few ciders but try to remember to take your make up off and let your skin breathe. 

7. Moisturiser/lip balm-Being outside and drinking alcohol can leave skin dry so make sure you moisturise every day and keep skin happy! Lip balm is also important to keep your lips from peeling and drying out during the day. 

8. Sun cream-At a festival a couple of years back my friend (who is very fair) got sun stroke and had to stay in her tent for the rest of the weekend! avoid this by packing some sun cream and top up throughout the day. 

9. Pan stick-Doing a full face of make-up everyday is a lot of effort when it's just going to sweat off anyway but again Danny O'donoghue was present so i felt an effort must be made! Pan stick is a foundation and concealer in one, it will hide blemishes and give your skin a boost of colour. 

10. Deodorant- Well, pretty self explanatory...

11. Hair band/Hair bobbles-Greasy hair is not a good look, keep plenty of bobbles handy to scrape hair back and even add a pretty hairband to distract from the grease. Nice. 

Bex

Product of the Week

I've been avoiding sharing this little gem for quite a while because, quite frankly, I want to keep it to myself. But, alas I am not that selfish & have decided to share my favourite beauty product of all time with you, you lucky things.

 

The product in question is Mac Matte Lipstick in 'So Chaud' which I wear day, night & pretty much anytime I get the chance to. It's a lovely reddish orange that has been everywhere this spring/summer & is set to stay a beauty favourite in the autumn/winter season. It's £15.00 but for that I think you're getting a beauty essential that lasts for ages. Add a layer of Lipcote on top and the colour will last even longer!

 

 

Kathy x



Look After Yourself

My Auntie Irene bought me Bobbi Brown's 'Beauty Rules' & ever since I've been a devoted fan - this woman speaks a lot of sense (Both Bobbi Brown & my Auntie Irene). Bobbi preaches about the importance of beauty and fashion being connected to the way you treat your body. For example the best beauty tip is to respect your body: eat & drink well & the results will be clear.

 

Reading this book inspired me to change the way I treat my body, I didn't give it enough respect & lack of excerise & a few too many nights out were starting to show (I like to call this the curse of freshers year...which somehow followed me into second year...don't even know how that happened...). Not one to do things by halves I entered myself in to a half marathon & began to train & eat cleanly (although I can't bring myself to give up Dr Pepper & red wine).

 

With one month to go until the half marathon I can honestly say I feel so much better within myself & the fact I'm doing it for a good cause (The MS Society) makes me feel even better. I wear things I wouldn't have dreamt of wearing at the beginning of second year & my skin feels so much better. I also don't feel so guilty after a night out, I feel like I deserve a treat.

 

My top tip if you're going to start training is to always have a 'power song', when you're losing steam put your chosen power song on & it'll help you go that little bit further. Make sure you change it regularly though, if you keep it the same for too long it loses the desired effect! Hope this helps!

 

Left to Right: My new Nike Free trainers (Make me look like Usain Bolt, what's not to love?), Bupa Great North Run: It's real - I'm doing a half marathon, the badge even says so, My current 'power song' Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Rey remixed by Cedric Gervais.

 

Kathy x

Olay BB Cream Review

I'm every advertisers dream, I fall for all their ploys. As soon as I saw Jessica Ennis was the face of Olay's collaboration with Maxfactor I knew I wanted to try it (well she is naturally gorgeous so it's worth a shot!). 

I've tried BB creams in the past and not been very impressed but as soon as I got a smell of this one I was sold - it reminds me of summer and holidays. You don't need to use much either (which I found out on my first attempt), a little goes a long way with this product even though it's not too heavy. I wanted to make the switch from foundation every day to BB cream to give my skin a break from heavy products and so far so good! Although I still suffer from the odd blemish I just use my Eco concealer brush (I like to think I'm doing my bit to save the world) and Benefit boi-ing concealer to cover anything that requires a bit more coverage.

 

Kathy x

 

Product Of The Week

Recently at one of the local markets in my home town I came across these great aromatherapy and massage products by Louise Shiels! 

The products are all hand made and range from exfoliating scrubs, bath bombs and massage oil. All products can be specifically tailored for you; for example they make pregnant friendly products which smell great! 

I treated myself to some massage oil which smells so delicious I sometimes dab a little on to my wrists as a perfume. The smell is so lush because of the essential oils used which include chamomile, rosewood, neroli, sandalwood and geranium. For a night of relaxation pop a few drops in to your bath, your skin will have never felt love like it...or if you have that someone special in your life what's a better way to treat them than a sensual massage (wink). 

Check out The Orchard on Facebook for more info and products! 

What's On Your Dressing Table?

Okay, so I might have given my dressing table a quick tidy before taking these pictures but in general I'm a really organised person & believe organisation is key to success in anything - especially getting ready in the mornings. So here I give you an insight to my dressing table essentials...

Make Up Brushes - I like to keep my brushes in order in this little beauty from Ikea, it's handy for reminding me to clean my brushes regularly as they're always on view.

Jewellery Box - Even my jewellery box gets it's own organisation (I know, I'm starting to sound a little obsessive). I don't know about you but I hate trying to untangle necklaces and bracelets so I like to keep everything in order which also keeps everything in better condition for longer, win win!

Nail Varnishes - If you hadn't noticed by now I have an unhealthy obsession with Essie...

Benefit Eye Sets - Again, another unhealthy obsession. Benefit makes up the majority of my make up bag. These sets are so easy to use, last forever & have really clear instructions to creating striking looks.

Simple Face Wipes - These badboys are my saviour after a night out. I'm a firm believer in the importance of removing your make up before bed & these are the perfect option when I can't be bothered to go through my long, usual routine.

Lipsticks - Red lips are my thing & naturally just one shade of red is not adequate...

Bunny Ring Holder - When I saw these bunnies in the Urban Outfitters sale I literally could not resist (despite my overdraft putting up a fight). They're practical as well as pretty.

Daisy By Marc Jacobs - My signature scent, one bottle is simply not enough of this delightful fragrance! (Joke - I stocked up while I was in duty free).

Venetian Mask - As well as organisation I like things looking pretty. This mask was a gift from my best friend Jack who brought it back from Venice for me - yeah I know, I have a-mazing friends.

Aussie Hair Mousse & Spray - They make my hair smell amazing. Enough said.

Kathy x