December 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

Another round of solid support for the retail sector! And getting in my December 2019 Empties post while the goodies are fresh in my mind, and before I resume the work routine, which will (sadly) restrict the frequency of my uploads, but on the other hand, will allow me to maintain my beauty addictions. ♥♥♥ I've also included a few little extras in the giveaway at the end to keep the spirit of Christmas going into what has been a devastating start to 2020 here in Australia. Praying those of you in fire-affected areas are all safe, and sending heartfelt thanks to all the brave Aussies working tirelessly to defend our beautiful country, and all the kind and generous souls offering their much-needed support in whatever way they can to the families and wildlife that are suffering ♥♥♥...

Body

Antipodes Deliverance Kowhai Flower Hand Cream (75ml, RRP $32)

Oh, I do so love this hand cream! Every application has been an absolute delight for its nourishing & moisturising properties (avocado, marigold & macadamia oils), the total absence of greasy aftermath, and the scent is right up my alley - orange and cedarwood, which is both comforting and refreshing. Don't like metal hand cream tubes from any brand, but this one at least didn't split before I used the last ml. Wherever I bought this from I certainly didn't pay $32 for it ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yes, but like most of my beauty purchases, I'm not prepared to pay full price, and probably not for a while as I have a stack to get through ♥♥♥...

Bosisto's Desert Lime & Eucalyptus Revitalising Hand Wash (300ml, RRP $6)

I think this is new - spotted it (and their body wash) for the first time not long ago at Coles, and pretty much any hand cleanser or shower gel that is SLS-free and not tested on animals will go into my trolley at least once. It's quite a pleasant scent, but the eucalyptus makes it a tad clinical - by that I mean a bit disinfect-y. Overall it's pretty good but has one flaw in the kats beauty ledger - it's too runny. When you depress the pump it has a tendency to squirt quite a long way (i.e. clean across the hand basin) unless you have your hand directly in front of it at the time. This happened in the rushing-out-the-door chaos of a workday morning and it landed on my top (grrrrr), so after that, I put it in the laundry to use it up ♥...

Repurchase?
No - it has a lot going for it, but the consistency is not what I could call user-friendly, and the marketplace has quite a few similar others that are way less squirty ♥...

Johnson's Pure Cotton Buds Applicators with Paper Sticks (Box of 150, RRP $2.69)

I used these for years then defected to another brand, but now I'm back and I'm staying. The only buds I (very carefully) insert in my outer ears because the tips don't ever fluff or fall off. They're also indispensable for cleaning my Bluetooth earbuds, makeup goofs, the insides of my lipstick tubes that get a bit mucky, and goodness knows what else. I keep the containers for bits and pieces like jewellery that needs repairing, collecting dead batteries for disposal, lipliner crayons that are too short for my standard holder etc. etc. They'll be in the Regulars section from now on ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
For as long as I wash my hair or wear makeup, which will, of course, be forever ♥♥♥...

Swisspers Dual Cosmetic Tips (Box of 100, RRP $2.99)

Another indispensable makeup tool, I use the pointy end to flick off unwanted mascara bits, tidy up my lipstick outline, and to clean my crayon sharpeners. The paddle end is brilliant for applying an extra touch of concealer or absorbing excess moisture from the eyelid crease. They've appeared before but will also join the Regulars section next time ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
They're sometimes hard to find so I stock up whenever I see them - currently four spares in the cupboard! ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Natures Commonscents Natural Goats Milk Body Wash (500ml, $8.00)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Face

Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer (20ml, RRP $29.99)

Picked up two of these on clearance from Priceline without realising it was so expensive. It's actually a terrific primer and creates a beautifully smooth base for foundation, or I've even worn it on its own (around the house lol) - the clear silicone type but it doesn't leave any oily film on the skin surface like others I've tried, leaves the skin matte, smooth and even. It doesn't have any scent and it's not tested on animals. While Priceline no longer stocks the brand, they have a website, and this primer is listed as sold out ♥♥...

Repurchase?
While it's good, I doubt it - my fave one from DB Cosmetics is half the price ♥♥...

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash (175ml, RRP $14.99)

Every summer I switch to a cleansing gel - the oil production in my T-zone goes into overdrive and I need something to control the flow as well as keep the blackheads from taking over. This time around I've renewed my acquaintance with this highly effective yet gentle-enough-for-mature-skin cleanser PURELY because I needed the pink grapefruit fragrance hit! I love it soooo much, especially in the really hot weather when I want something super refreshing at the end of the day. I used to buy the same thing as a scrub but I haven't seen it for years so it's probably discontinued - this one I can only find at Chemist Warehouse ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yep, bought another one 'cos I just can't get enough of the scent ♥♥♥...

Nivea Hyaluron Cellular Filler Day Cream SPF15 (50ml, RRP $27.99)

A bit embarrassed to say this was leftover from a beautyheaven trial in September 2018! I'd put it aside as I switched to retinol products and only just finished it now - no deterioration in the product though, and I gave it 5 stars in my bh review (about halfway down the page HERE). It's a beaut cream, but for me, its richness is better suited to cooler weather ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I'll think about it closer to April ♥♥♥...

Nivea MicellAIR Skin Breathe Expert Make-up Remover (400ml, RRP $13.99)

Interestingly, I wasn't all that impressed with this, either as the main cleanser or second cleanser, even though it was quite effective. But then again I'm pretty fussy when it comes to the experience of a product. So this worked reasonably well at removing makeup, although I went through at least six cotton pads per go - the problem for me is that there isn't enough slip. I can't bear the feeling of something dragging over my skin - lord knows I don't need anything to pull my already sagging face, and I found this just didn't cut it, plus the remover pad started to disintegrate after the 3rd swipe, and that just doesn't happen with other products. The absence of a flip-top lid also niggled so I left the cap off permanently. Anyways, it has quite a lot going for it, but not for moi...

Repurchase?
No - I prefer a regular cleanser, washcloth, and micellar 2nd cleanse...

Sukin Rosehip Rejuvenating Facial Scrub (125ml RRP $13.95)

LOVED this! I'm mad keen on all Sukin scrubs, and this one just hit the #1 spot. I was a little nervous as I've given up some other rosehip products (from a different brand) because the scent was making me feel peculiar - not this beauty though. Such a gorgeous delicate fragrance and I love the texture of the scrub - not too grainy, but enough ground rosehip seeds and walnut shells to leave my face feeling smooth and soft ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

You betcha, and probably before any of the others from the range, that's how good it is ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub (100g, RRP $11.99)
Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 

Face Masks
Regulars

Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (2 pairs, RRP $3)

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

Fragrance

Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT (50ml, RRP $50)

One of my favourite spring/summer fragrances ever, I've decided I can't go through a sunny season without it. Bought this because of beautyheaven's review of it by @skincare junkie, and I was sold at first sniff. So pure, fresh and clean, my full review of it is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I had assigned it the kats-can't-live-without status months ago and bought the 100ml bottle on special from feelingsexy for half price - score! ♥♥♥...

Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Intensive Smoothing Mask (200ml, RRP $42.95)

Last appeared in December 2018 Empties post - this jar has lasted 12 months (instead of the usual 6) because I've been trying a couple of others that I scored, but this one is the ultimate. Nothing leaves my hair softer than this powerhouse, which is well worth the $$$ ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Picking up another one tomorrow ♥♥♥...

Hi Lift True Colour Hair Colour Creme - Light Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $6.95)

Soooo, my plans to no longer dye my hair with a permanent colour have been shelved for the time being. Basically, colouring with semi-permanent turned out to be exceptionally high maintenance, the results weren't necessarily as expected, the finish was sometimes uneven despite all my care and attention, and going to work with greenish, purplish or bluish hair wasn't quite the right look for my role lol. So I've resumed the permanent regime, just adding the semis to achieve the silvery grey colour I'm after. How I wish I could buy a permanent silver hair colour in this country! As for this dye, the pigment wasn't as potent as the Salon Professional Brand (below), but hey it was half the price... 

Repurchase?

Nope - I only bought this because the store was out of the other brand...

Salon Professional Supplies Creme Peroxide 20 vol (200ml, RRP $5.95)

This is the developer for the hair dye I'm using - comes in various strengths and it's not too stinky... 

Repurchase?

I determined that I need the 30vol for the base, and 10vol for the toner, so no...

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Extra Light Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $14.95)

This wasn't dark enough, but I'm still experimenting to find the right intensity. In conjunction with the peroxide, it doesn't seem to be too damaging a combo, but I will still be adding my Olaplex every time I colour ♥... 

Repurchase?

Will buy the Light or regular Ash Blonde as soon as they are back in stock ♥...

Regulars

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Violet Toner (100ml, RRP $14.95)
Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey, Metallic - Lilac Chrome & Denim Steel (RRP $5.49)

Makeup

NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Cream - Fuchsia Fusion (discontinued...sob)

The pinkest, fuchsia-est, most metallic, most vibrant, most compliment generating, most comfortable lip cream ever. Sorry NYX but what is wrong with you? Why oh why was this range a limited edition? The tube is empty, and my heart is broken ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Would if I could, in a (broken) heartbeat ♥♥♥...

Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer (10ml, RRP $40)

Find of the month. Quite frankly, The Best Concealer I Have Ever Used. There...I've said it. This stuff covers ANYTHING and EVERYTHING and it doesn't crease, not even over and around my massive eye bags and the plethora of crinkles. At the end of the day, there is no change. Wow, I mean wow, the hype is true. I bought Light Neutral (22N) as it's a bit yellowy, perfect for my skin tone, and to cover the freckles under my eyes. I used to rave about IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye, but this Tarte is even better. Holey guacemoley, this is the one ♥♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I have five other concealers, including two Kat Von D ones, but none of them is as effective, so yes, I just ordered another from Sephora ♥♥♥♥...

Regulars

Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $16.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Giveaway

Up for grabs are...

• Olay Regenerist Pre-Essence
• Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer
• Elizabeth Arden White Tea Pure Indulgence Body Cream (100ml)
• Essence Crystal Power Eyeshadow Palette
• Essence Crystal Power Blush & Highlighter Palette (personal fave!)
• Lovisa Something Special Pale Pink Swarovski Halo Silver-tone Necklace & Stud Earrings set

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $135.  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  - check back later tonight to find out who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Karen C. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

Karen, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight

Wednesday 22nd January to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Karen has claimed her prize ♥

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

P.S. I've now included links to my reviews of the regulars wherever possible ♥

August 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

Hello October ♥ I'm so glad you're here - daylight saving, no more early morning frost on the windscreen, winter woollies packed away, Halloween on the horizon, self-tanner on the bench, pedicure booked in, woo hoo! But arriving seemingly super fast, you've also landed me in a bit of a pickle - I'm literally drowning in empties! Three buckets, two brimming with tubes, bottles, packets and jars that need to go into the recycling bin stat, and one that I already can't see the bottom of. Note to self: earning a living is important, but there needs to be a balance between work and play. So...at least one day of this long weekend is for catching up with my blog posts (and a sheet mask), so let's get started ♥...

Body

Ecostore Vanilla & Coconut Hand Wash (250ml, RRP $5.50)

Pretty close to being my favourite hand wash - I simply ADORE the fragrance, plus it's non-drying, made in New Zealand (the land of fantabulous skincare), no SLS, not tested on animals, the shape of the bottle means that it sits nicely on the narrow laundry and kitchen sink ledges, and the packaging colour scheme goes perfectly with my creamy toned ensuite ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Easy peasy, plus I can find it at Woolworths ♥♥♥...

Johnson's Pure Cotton Buds Applicators (150, RRP $2.69)

The only cotton buds that go anywhere near my ears because they never shred or fluff off - also essential for makeup cleanups, and the plastic container is super handy for storing bits and pieces 'cos the lid snaps firmly in place ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Forever ♥♥♥...

Nubian Heritage Coconut & Papaya Bar Soap (142g, RRP $10)

One of many Limited Edition soaps available from Shea Moisture. They're all deliciously fragranced, super softening and creamy, an elegantly curved shape, and not tested on animals. I bought several to try and I opted to start with this one as it matched my bathroom decor the best. It's really long-lasting, and I haven't actually finished it yet, but how do I take a picture of a used soap bar? ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Definitely, well as long as the Limited Editions are available ♥♥♥...

Schick Hydro Silk Razor (RRP $14.25)

This aqua blue version is SO old I don't think they make it any more, but the purple one seems to be the replacement. It still works with the latest refills but on close inspection, I noticed it was really quite stained and ratty looking, so I decided to treat myself to a new one ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yep - shaving is the only hair removal I can be bothered with, and the Schick razors are always reliable, safe and effective ♥♥♥...

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Soothing Body Wash (384ml, RRP $19.99)

Lovingly reviewed HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Always, and if you apply the KATS code at the Shea Moisture checkout, you'll still get 30% off! ♥♥♥...

Sukin Botanical Body Wash (250ml, RRP $8.95)

A lovely body wash that's non-drying and leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean. I'm a big Sukin fan, and this has a very pleasant herbally fragrance, but it's not quite interesting enough to entice me to buy it again ♥...

Repurchase?

I doubt it - I prefer the scent of the Lime & Coconut variety, or the Sukin for Men Cinnamon & Mandarin one ♥...

Weleda Skin Food (30ml, RRP $14.95)

Gifted at the August Beautyheaven Natual Beauty Event, I'm in awe of this cream, and at a total loss as to how I haven't come across it before now. Quite simply the richest moisturising cream I've ever used, and to top it off, the lemony fragrance is to die for. Holey guacemoley - way too intense to use on my face, the restoration work this did on my Winter-withered hands as an overnight treatment was phenomenal. So much so I'm kicking myself for forking out almost double the $$$ for another brand of hand cream that only recently became my HG. I'll still use it during the day of course, but this Skin Food has instantly earned a forever place in my beauty stash - whoa! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

You betcha. and the large tube at that ♥♥♥...

Regulars

White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Body Scrub (170g, RRP $10)

Face

Eaoron Makeup Remover Balm (90g, RRP $26.99)

My go-to Winter cleanser - love it to bits, and now available at Priceline as well as Chemist Warehouse.  My in-depth review is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure have, I stocked up at a recent CW sale ♥♥♥...

Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Daily Youth Restoring Serum Capsules (60 capsules, RRP $140)

I scored a sample tube of seven capsules from somewhere, and I hesitated to try them because I was concerned I'd fall in love with them, and then my beauty budget wouldn't stretch to keep the supply going. Well, they were indeed a lovely experience, but I needn't have worried as the results were not sufficient for me to invest in any more. Exceptionally hydrating yes, but I saw no visible improvement in texture or wrinkles, and to be honest, I found trying to rip open the little pea pods without the precious contents running through my fingers quite annoying ♥...

Repurchase?

No, said she as her Bank Manager breathed a sigh of relief ♥...

Lacura Green Tea & Olive Leaf Clarifying Facial Scrub (150ml, RRP $4.99)

I bought this to try, instead of the equivalent St. Ives one. It's very similar, both in fragrance, texture and performance, but I think the St. Ives one has the edge ♥...

Repurchase?

Probably not - there are so many other scrubs I prefer, and this one is a bit boring in comparison ♥...

Lancôme Renergie Multi-Lift Day Cream (50ml, RRP $159)

A 15ml sample jar leftover from a 2 years-ago GWP. A stunning cream, but too rich for my skin...and because of the price, fortunately, lol. I knew that before I opened it, but I wasn't going to toss it, and it was too old to give away. Even for the short time I used it, my pores clogged, but the problem went away soon after I finished it. Still, I won't go there again - for the record, the same thing happens with La Prairie and La Mer creams, so with the exception of L'Occitane, I'm not destined to use high-end skincare - phew! ♥...

Repurchase?

Negative ♥...

Wrinkles Schminkles Morning After Glow Serum (50ml, RRP $44.95)

I bought the Wrinkles Schminkles Eye Smoothing Kit (silicone eye pads), and this is the serum that's applied the next morning. Well the pads haven't done anything for my under eye area so far, but I'll persist, or I'll try them on my upper lip. This serum is quite lovely - silky, soothing and softening with a fresh lemon scent, but there are so many others I prefer (like my latest passion, L'Occitane Immortelle Overnight Reset serum - ooh la la!) ♥...

Repurchase?

I don't think so ♥...

Regulars

DB Pore Minimising Primer (25ml, $14.99)
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89)

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum with Accelerated Retinol SA (29ml, RRP $42.99)

Nivea Hyaluron Cellular Filler Anti Spot Treatment Serum (30ml, RRP $34.99)

Face Masks

ActivLayr 5 Sec Firming Eye Mask (7 pairs, RRP $89.99)

These were my greatest August discovery (review HERE) - I loved them so much I bought two more boxes (the first was a PR gift). I have more pictures of terrific results for another post, but just haven't had the time to put it all together yet. Keep an eye out for this brand though, and whatever they bring out next - I reckon their marine collagen products are going to be big ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I'm waiting for the full face mask (or entire body suit lol) ♥♥♥...

Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Mud Mask (10ml, RRP $5.99)

This was in the July Bellabox - was SO looking forward to it, but was disappointed that I could barely scrape it out of the sachet. It was set quite hard and thick, and took a bit of doing to get it onto my face and spread it out. It left my skin soft and deep cleansed, but I was puzzled as to why it was so dry - that was until I noticed the expiry date of "4/19". Whether Bellabox knew this or not, or whether Yes To provided old stock to Bellabox, I think it was bad form to include a product that was past its use-by date...

Repurchase?

I doubt it - the experience put me off trying any of their other products...

Regulars

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

Fragrance

Chi Chi Strawberry & Violet Eau De Parfum (50ml, RRP $19.95)

Can't imagine my fragrance collection without this - it's so beautiful, and I receive regular compliments and queries whenever I wear it. I first discovered it back in 2015 when I called it "shamelessly romantic and totally feminine", and that's still the case. Review HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, it's a keeper ♥♥♥...

Hair

Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Super Nourishing Coconut & Fig Hair Masque (212ml, RRP $64.90)

Another sample (38ml) treat from the July Bellabox - it's definitely bliss-worthy. The fab fragrance enveloped me in the shower, and the beauty of it is that you only leave it on for 5-10 minutes. Incredibly nourishing, my hair felt so silky and smooth afterwards ♥♥...

Repurchase?

As much as I enjoyed it, unlikely - too expensive, the Kerasilk one I love is just as good ♥♥...

Nordic Blonde Blonde Toner (150ml, RRP $12.99)

This worked quite well to counteract the yellowing in my hair, but it does stain the fingers a wee bit, and the smell is just plain awful...

Repurchase?

No way - ewwwwww it stinks...

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Metallic - Denim Steel (RRP $5.49)

This is a gorgeous and intense deep blue-grey. I've actually changed my hair colouring now to this range because it doesn't actually dye the hair. I'll go into more detail in a later post, but I've decided to move away from permanent colourant, and these "8 washes" sachets are working brilliantly for me ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, plus the Cool Grey and Lilac Chrome ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Scott Cornwall Colour Restore Iced Platinum Anti-Yellow Toner (100ml, RRP $16.95)

Makeup

Regulars

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

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...

• DB Cosmetics Pore Minimising Primer
• Eaoron Makeup Remover Balm
• Lacura Makeup Brush Cleaner & Dryer
• Nubian Heritage Olive Oil & Green Tea Soap
• SheaMoisture Bamboo Charcoal Body Scrub

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $80. 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  - check back later tonight to find out who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful MerryGoRound as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

MerryGoRound, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight

Wednesday 16th October to claim your prize :-)

Edit: MerryGoRound has claimed her prize ♥

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT...

Well as you can see my forays into Elizabeth Arden territory are ongoing, and the last strike revealed what might well be the jewel in her crown - White Tea EDT ♥. I'll admit I was already both intrigued and entranced after reading skincare junkie's review of it on beautyheaven (HERE), and then when I saw it on special at Myer, I took it as a sign that the universe thought I should have it in my collection. I'm so glad I responded to the hint because this is one of the most beautiful spring/summer fragrances I've had the pleasure to experience...

The packaging is gorgeous and the perfect representation of the fragrance inside. Cooling, calming & elegant, the rectangular bottle is white ombre - clear at the base morphing into solid white at the top, with a square plastic cap covering all but 5mm of the gold spray fitting. Simple, elegant, clean. The $50 "special" I bought was a box with the 50ml bottle plus a 100ml tube of Pure Indulgence Body Cream, which I've yet to try, but being Elizabeth Arden and containing shea butter, it's sure to be a delight. Having fallen for this scent big time, I powered through a third of the bottle in the first week (!) so I jumped online and ordered the 100ml from feelingsexy who had (and still have) the 100ml for $34 - woo hoo!...

At first it reminded me of Bvlgari Omnia Crystalline (which I also adore for summer), but it's way softer, more subtle, more womanly. While the initial spritz is equally crisp and refreshing, the dry down is deliciously (and delicately) musky and powdery. Top notes are Italian Mandarin, Clary Sage, Sea Breeze Accord and Japanese White Fern, but within a few minutes, the White Tea emerges, skillfully entwined with White Iris, Mate and Turkish Rose, all gliding on a base of Amber, Ambrette, Tonka Bean and Exotic Woods. Sigh...it's just sooooo beautiful ♥...

Compared to her Green Tea (lovingly reviewed last month HERE) this little darling is quite a bit more expensive, but hey, it's class all the way. At around 4 hours on my skin, longevity is reasonably good for an EDT, but you'll want to keep spraying it throughout the day anyway, just to relish the blissful burst of feminine refreshment it delivers ♥...

Take care of you,

kats xxx