Battle of the Christmas Nails

Christmas Day involves many decisions including the likes of, how many puddings is too many puddings? Is it acceptable to sport a cracker hat over a Santa number and maybe more importantly, what festive polish should I don?

Here's the shades that made the final cut...

as in top picture 

Maybelline color show brocades in 'knitted gold'

Essie 'mind your mittens'

Collection 60 second hot looks in 'big hair'

nails inc. in 'luminous metallic red'

Kate spade for nails inc. in 'uptown glamour'

The picture doesn't do knitted gold justice but it is the most amazing glitter ensemble of gold and dusky pink flecks, ultimately transforming any polish colour into a dazzling look. I'm currently torn between the simple metallic red or layering glitter over gold for maximum festive overload! (if you can't do it at Christmas, when can ya eh?)

Decisions, decisions...

It's Christmas Time

Here's an insight into my little flat all ready for Christmas, with festive decor galore and, of course, candles!

Merry Christmas To You All!

In Pictures: Clothes Show Live 2013

When do next years tickets go on sale?

Bargain Alert: Eye Brushes

Today I bring you the bargain of the century month. If you are looking for a new set of eye tools then take those peepers no further. Coming to just under £3 this synthetic kabuki brush quartet is an absolute steal (thanks eBay)!

from left to right

flat topped stippling brush

pointed brush

tapered blending brush

rounded blending brush

They can be found here and do take a little while to come from overseas - but if like me, you forget that you have ordered them, it's a little surprise sitting in your postbox!

Now excuse me while I go and find my inner MUA...

Clothes Show Live 2013 - Purchases

So last weekend I went along to Clothes Show Live 2013 at the Birmingham NEC with my best friend and fellow blogger. With it being my first time, it was a whole new experience! I took a few snaps so will do a whole blog post on the entire day, but for now here's what I picked up...

Classic Kate Spade iPhone 4 case

Two AHH-mazing candles from Bomb Cosmetics - if you've not tried this brand, you haven't lived!

3 stunning shades of Models Own plus the Clothes Show Live glitter edition

The sweetest ring from Emma Warren

Anyone else pop along this year?

Essie - Mind Your Mittens

Here is a shade I just can't get enough of - as one sixth of Essie's Shearling Darling collection, this deep and creamy teal really caught my eye.

Almost black in some lights this cool toned blue is perfect for the colder months and give your fingers that sophisticated edge. I can't wait to add some Christmas sparkle to this look!

 Essie, you never disappoint!

Lip Lowdown #01 - REDS

Welcome to my little but large collection of red lipsticks. A small, but diverse array of shades that I like to smother (worst lippie applier award goes to...) my lips with from time to time.

from left to right

Natural Collection in 'Crimson' - This classic red is such a staple in anyone collection, this £1.99 bargain is a great party piece for the festive season. 

Rimmel Kate Moss in '107' - Yes, THE Rimmel lipstick everyone and their dog owns. But that is precisely the point, this deep matte red can be worn day and night and works fab on pretty much everyone! go on, join the clan...

17 Lasting Fix Lipstick in 'Hot Chilli' - This is actually one of my favourite lipsticks to wear, a garish orange toned red but surprisingly easy to wear! A great summer colour, but also a awesome duo with gold Christmassy eyes.

Jemma Kidd Lip Duo in 'Boudicea' - Another T K Maxx find here, very similar to 107 but slightly deeper and less purple. With a balm on the opposite end, what more could you ask for in winter? Plus I would highly recommend this lipstick purely on its unbelievably  smooth texture!

Sleek Matte Me  in 'Rioja Red' - The matte lip everyone lusting over.... (full review here)

Bright or deep, what's your call?

The Instagram Report #01

blog central // glamour's freebie // fairy lights // cutest notepad // poundland buys // stockings // sleek matte me // autumn make up // bonfire night // christmas organisation // new bag // winter pastels

instagram: alisonruthxo