Saturday 28 September 2019

SPOTLIGHT: Favourite August 2019 LOTD's...

Time for another round of lipstick love! Thank goodness the days are getting longer and warmer - I'm so over scarves, gloves and even my beloved boots, which are becoming a wee bit too hot and stuffy after the morning chill has faded. While it's quite a chore, I do enjoy the end result of switching the wardrobe around and packing away the winter woollies for another year. I'm also ready for some pretty pastels and brights on my pout too, although as I'm always at least a month behind with these posts, you'll still be seeing the deep reds, plums and berries for a while yet... 


As usual, I'll start with the nudes, which I've been exploring (and loving!) quite a bit more than usual lately ...


1. Nude by Nature Satin Liquid Lipstick - Natural. Oh wow - I haven't fallen in love with a true nude like this for a long long time. I think you know by now that I don't normally go for pale lipsticks, and the closest I go to a nude is more of a mauve or a coral (like the next one), but I'm in awe of this particular hue, which is extraordinarily flattering, and the formula is a total darling. Thanks to beautyheaven for sending this to me - I just plain adore it!  
2. Nutrimetics Hydra Brilliance - Coral Silk.  Love this one too - very high comfort factor, and although it's pale, there's enough pigment to keep me looking healthy, and it seems to take on a new life when I coordinate with coral clothing. A pity it's a special edition ...
3. Revlon Hyper Matte Ultra HD Matte Lip Mousse - Spice. Another nudey one (actually I'd call this a nude with benefits) that I spotted on special in the supermarket - such a pretty shade, but not all that comfortable as it's quite drying. It's tolerable with a balm or primer underneath, but I have so many others that are day-long hydrating, so I may not keep this ... 



4. Bourjois Rouge Edition - Brun Boheme. This won my heart last autumn - not red, not orange, not brown, but a combo of all three to make a fabulously bricky hue that I can wear with both warm and cool colours (it's totally gorgeous with icy greys) ...
5. Lip Monthly Lipstick - 02. Close to being my favourite autumnal orange (as opposed to a summery neon orange). I have a couple of lippies that are quite a unique shade, and this is one of them. Lovely and moist too ...
6. Nutrimetics Hydra Brilliance - Pecan. Don't think there's a Nutrimetics lipstick that I haven't loved - they sure do know how to put together great formulas with stunning shades. I'll be rocking this one all through the warm weather ...



7. Lacura Beauty Lipstick - Chief.  Hard to fault Aldi lipsticks, although their colour range is usually limited to only three or five choices, but what they do come out with are invariably awesome and terrific value  ...
8. DB Cosmetics Moisturising Lipstick - Red Hot Red. I need to update my DB lip collection as these are getting a bit old now, although they're still viable, comfortable and don't smell or taste weird. But I think I've had them for five years so it's time. This is a beaut neutral red that would suit most skin tones, so I hope it's still available ...
9. Maybelline ColorSensational Matte - Divine Wine. Tolerable matte formula, mainly because the colour is truly divine. I mean this is vamp in a tube hey ...



10. Lacura Beauty Mineral Lipstick - After Dark. Another beauty from Aldi - sadly a special edition, such a juicy berry, amazing formula and the rose gold packaging is luxe ...
11. Nutrimetics Silks Creme Lipstick - Plum. I've worn this so many times I'm half-way down the bullet in less than six months. I'm definitely a plum all year round gal, and this one is a stunner ... 
12. NYX Cosmic Metals - Fuchsia Fusion.  The hottest, sassiest, pinkest pink in my collection. NYX please bring these back! ...

Take care of you,
kats xxx

Sunday 15 September 2019

Bloggiversary 2019 Giveaway!...

Hey lovelies - break out the candles and cake 'cos my blog is 6 years old this month, and I'm hoping you'll help me mark the occasion by entering my Bloggiversary giveaway! I remember when I launched my little blip in the blogosphere in 2013, I had serious doubts as to whether I could devote the time to upload at least one post per week, let alone would anyone be interested in anything I had to say. Even back then the internet was flooded with a gazillion bloggers all battling for their niche in the ether - the competition was fierce, and success was primarily measured by how many followers you had. But my philosophy has always been pretty simple - write honestly whether the subject fires your passion or not, and if you're blessed with good fortune, share it whenever possible ...


So I've put together a bundle of some of the things I love for all the friends and followers that are still dropping by for a quick read after all this time - a mixture of makeup, skincare, jewellery and fragrance, so here we go! ...
  • Australis Eye Spy Smokey Eyeshadow Palette
  • Beechworth Honey Mountain Honey & Lavender Hand & Body Lotion
  • Chi Chi The Immaculate Ombre Blush Collection (no box)
  • Chi Chi Pride Rainbow Palette (I must be crazy to give this away!)
  • DB Cosmetics Pore Minimising Primer
  • Eaoron Makeup Remover Balm (review HERE)
  • Ishka Silver Metal & Suede Tribal Ankh Necklace
  • 2 x Nutrimetics Hydra Brilliance Lipsticks - Russet & Amber
  • Nutrimetics Loofah Shower Gel with Apricot Extract & Sweet Almond Oil
  • Nutrimetics Mineral Clay Masque with Apricot Extract & Soybean Oil (review HERE)
  • Sarah Jessica Parker Lovely Eau De Parfum - 30m) (review HERE)
  • Skin Physics Advance Superlift Caviar Age-Recovery Hand & Nail Renewal Cream
All items are brand new, were purchased by me and the total prize value is $330! And because of the weight of all these goodies, this giveaway is open to...
Australian Residents Only! 
And because it's a big one, I'll extend it for 2 weeks - entries close midnight Monday 30th September 2019 ...

Here's how to enter:
  1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
  2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
  3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
  4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    This giveaway is now closed 

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Fay W. as the winner.  
    Congratulations gorgeous! 
    Fay, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight
    Wednesday 2nd October to claim your prize :-)
    Edit: Fay has claimed her prize 

    A huge thank you to all you lovelies who entered, and for all the fabulous
    and kind words of encouragement you posted in the comments.
    I treasure your support so very much 
    And there'll be another giveaway soon!
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Best of luck to all who enter!

    Take care of you,
    kats xxx

    Sunday 1 September 2019

    July 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

    Well, it's official - I'm high maintenance! I was looking back through my old Empties posts and found the first one I uploaded (in November 2015 HERE), and while it wasn't too shabby an effort, these days I require almost double the products to get me through a month, and I don't see the situation improving any time soon. In fact, it's likely to get worse - as I age it takes more and more effort (and stuff) to keep me looking reasonably well-groomed, so I guess the beauty industry will stay afloat for a while longer lol ...


    Body

    Glow Lab Amber & Sage Hand Wash (300ml, RRP $5)
    Mmmm loved this hand wash, actually I'm quite taken with this brand, and have bought several other flavours, as well as their body wash. Fabulously comforting fragrance (anything with amber gets me in every time), no sulphates, cruelty-free, can buy it at Woolworths and doesn't dry my skin. NZ is really churning out some great skincare ...
    Repurchase?
    Already have, plus the coconut & spiced fig one ...

    L'Occitane Intensive Hand Balm (150ml, RRP $47)
    Holey guacemoley, this is the biggest, fattest most long-lasting tube of hand cream I've ever come across! Gifted by beautyheaven ages ago, I've been looking at it in my drawer for yonks, not wanting to make a dent in it. It's the most enriching hand cream, smells delish, and it worked wonders on my old skin. My only beef is with the packaging - why oh why do L'Occitane keep using metal for their tubes? The cap is so tiny that it won't stand up on my bedside table plus the lid is so fiddly to screw back on, and from the first use, the tube looks crap - battered and worn, and halfway through it started splitting at the sides. Boo!...
    Repurchase?
    Not unless it comes in a travel size, or they change the packaging to plastic...

    White Glo Charcoal Deep Stain Remover Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)
    Tastes the same as the Total Mouth Detox one, and didn't notice any difference in the whiteness of my teeth - I don't have any deep stains to remove, but I was curious to try it ...
    Repurchase?
    Probably, but if I have a choice, I'd go for my regular Detox one ...


    Regulars
    Natures Commonscents Natural Goats Milk Body Wash (500ml, $8.00)
    Oral-B 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Toothpaste (96g, RRP $9.49)
    Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
    White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

    Face

    Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant (57g, RRP $85)
    I do love this powder - it's so gentle and I love the polishing effect on my skin. Was delighted to receive this 13g sample size from a long-forgotten source, and anything containing charcoal is a sure bet winner with me ...
    Repurchase?
    Absolutely, but probably not till I get a full-time job as it's not very budget-friendly ...

    Kosmea Revive Illuminating Essence (10ml, RRP $21.95)
    This 3ml sample came with one of my beautyheaven Rewards Room orders. Absolutely loved its hydrating qualities, and the scent is divine - very fresh and organic, and my face literally drank it in ... 
    Repurchase?
    Would definitely consider it if I ever get off the retinol bus ...

    L'Oreal Clinically Proven Lash Serum (2ml, RRP $29.95)
    Can you believe it I've stopped buying RapidLash after 5 years - either my lashes are used to it, they changed the formula, or I'm buying fakes, but anyway it's not working any more. And because I no longer photograph my eyes, I figured I can survive with what nature gave me. But given I apply three coats of waterproof mascara almost every day, I wanted to show my lashes a little bit of love, and this works a treat. Keeps them supple and I've not had any breakages since I've been using it ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes ...

    Mirenesse Fast Fix Solutions Chin Tuck (40g, RRP $79) 
    This is one that had been lying idle in my drawer for over a year. It did nothing for my saggy neck or double chin but it came in a VIP pack so at least I didn't waste $80 on it. It feels lovely when applied, and there's a steel roller built into the tube, but I think my under-chin is just too far gone ha ha!...
    Repurchase?
    No ...

    Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
    These should have been appearing in my Regulars section since I started these Empties posts - I usually go through two packs every month. Not necessarily on my face, although I have used them occasionally when I've been in a hurry to get to bed - I use them to clean my brushes daily. It's the best way I've found - the brushes don't get wet and they never shed ...
    Repurchase?
    Always at least six packs stashed away ...

    Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Moisturiser SPF 15 (29ml, RRP $39.99)
    Bought this to try instead of the Rapid Wrinkle Repair one - didn't notice any difference, but it's just as lovely. I think this Neutrogena retinol skincare is awesome ...
    Repurchase?
    If I can't find my usual, yes ...

    Olay Regenerist Whip (10g, RRP $11.99) 
    A freebie from a beautyheaven event - a beautiful cream, rich and yet light and non-greasy, perfect as an under makeup base, just wish it had SPF. This 10g size is just the cutest! ...
    Repurchase?
    If they bring out one with SPF, then yes ...

    Olay Eyes Pro-Retinol Eye Treatment (15ml, RRP $48.99) 
    Recommended by dear Fawn - thanks treasure! Absolutely LOVE this eye cream, in fact I think it's my latest contender for the HG title. Very calming, cooling and soothing, I noticed the fine wrinkles under my eyes disappeared in the first few days - let's hope it works as well on the crevasses! ...
    Repurchase?
    I stocked up at the last skincare sale ...

    SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wash & Scrub (118ml, RRP $29.99)
    I'm a massive fan of this brand. This is a lovely and gentle scrub that's full of goodness, enriching and doesn't irritate my skin. It's very runny though, and that's why it's not my #1 - if I'm not careful it slips through my fingers and quite a bit is wasted. Love the milk lolly scent, just wish it was firmer ...
    Repurchase?
    Maybe ...

    Skin Nutrient Goat's Milk Magic Touch Moisturiser (50g, RRP $35.95)
    Another gift from a bh event. I had high hopes for this as it seemed to be sufficiently moisturising for my dry winter skin, but alas no. It would be fine for summer, but to be honest, it's just too weird. A gel with tiny white flecks (milk solids?) that are a little gritty and sometimes dissolve, but not always. For that reason, I would only use it at night. Nice fresh fragrance though and I like that they've attempted something a bit different with their packaging ...
    Repurchase?
    No ...

    Swisspers Make-up Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.79)
    Another pack that should have appeared regularly before, but will again. I go through probably three per night when I double cleanse with micellar water. I also spray my perfume onto one and tuck it between my boobs - my bras were becoming stained from my everyday spritz, but this does the trick, keeps everything clean, and the scent lasts all day. These are the ONLY makeup pads I buy - they don't disintegrate and yet they're baby soft ...
    Repurchase?
    Forever ...

    Trilogy Rosehip  Transformation  Cleansing Oil (110ml, RRP $28.95) 
    Another one from beautyheaven - yes they continue to be one of my main sources of new products! A gorgeous oil cleanser that smells divine and takes off all my makeup. I've never been into oil cleansers, and I'm still not as I prefer a balm in winter, but this is truly a lovely product. Liquid oils are just too messy for me and I don't like that they drip into the basin, which is why I prefer a solid balm ...
    Repurchase?
    As lovely as it is, not likely ...

    Regulars
    Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 
    St. Ives Oatmeal Scrub & Mask (150ml, RRP $9.99)

    Face Masks


    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mask (Box of 5, RRP $19.99)
    Oh boy, my current job is so intense it has impacted my weekday nights (10-12 hour days) as well as my weekends, and this was my only sheet mask in July. I'm so glad it was a beauty - it's a one-piece with cheek splits,  one of the best face-fits ever, supremely hydrating and I could literally feel my skin soaking up the moisture. Definitely a keeper! ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes indeedy! ...

    Regulars
    Skin Republic Retinol Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)


    Skin Republic Foot Peel (1 pair pre-filled boots, RRP $15.99 )


    Was keen to try this to compare it to Milky Foot (which I reviewed in my one and only YouTube video HERE).  My verdict? It's not as effective as Milky Foot, but hey, it's half the price. As you can see above it certainly peeled a fair bit of the yucky skin off my feet after a week, and there was no discomfort whatsoever, but it was all in the form of tiny flakes and the corns on my little toes are still there. Fine if you don't have much work to do on your feet, but for my money, I'd rather pay the extra for Milky Foot and only have to do it once per year ...
    Repurchase?
    No...

    Fragrance

    Estée Lauder Youth Dew EDP (67ml, RRP $80)
    Adore this fragrance in the cold months - my in-depth review is HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    Can't live without it ...

    Hair
    Regulars
    Goldwell Kerasilk Control Shampoo (250ml, RRP $35.95) Schwarzkopf Live Salon Permanent - Ultra Light Ash Blonde & Medium Ash Blonde (RRP $13.99)
    Schwarzkopf OSIS+ Sparkler Shine Spray (300ml, RRP $27.95)

    Makeup

    BYS Highlighting Palette (5 pans + brush, RRP $14.95)
    Absolutely LOVE this palette! Mind you I only used up two pans (the champagne gold and the bronze) but well worth it. The perfect amount of shimmer for my needs. The champagne goes down the centre of my nose and across my cupid's bow, and I've even been daring enough to use a kabuki brush dusted with a combo of the gold and bronze all over my face for a teeny bit of glow - unheard of for me lol! ...
    Repurchase?
    Sure have ...

    IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness (11ml, RRP $54)
    I waited almost a year to purchase this, and I wasn't disappointed from a coverage perspective. It's too pale for me to use on its own, but it's impossible to see any imperfections once it's applied. I do love this brand, but I loathe the fact that everything I want is almost always out of stock - it's a total joy-killer for me ...
    Repurchase?
    I doubt it - very expensive for the tiny amount I use, and sadly it dried up in the pot before I could finish it ...

    Regulars
    Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $15.95)
    Eye of Horus Emerald Tabula Goddess Pencil (1.2g, RRP $30)
    Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $13.95)
    Maybelline Volume Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara (RRP $19.95)

    Giveaway


    Ok, so this month we have up for grabs...
    • Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence
    • Olay Eyes Pro-Retinol Eye Treatment
    • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mask
    • Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
    • Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder
    • Covergirl Katy Kat Matte Lipstick - Catoure
    • Lacura Beauty Photo-Fit Lipstick - London
    All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $140.  The giveaway is open to...

    Australian Residents Only! 
    Here's how to enter...
    1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
    2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
    3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
    4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter
      ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      This giveaway is now closed

      a Rafflecopter giveaway
      Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Annamaree M. as the winner.  
      Congratulations gorgeous! 
      Annamaree, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight
      Wednesday 11th September to claim your prize :-)
      Edit: Annamaree has claimed her prize 
      ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

      Best of luck to all who enter!

      Take care of you,
      kats xxx