SUMMER READING

As I am finally done with exams I have more time to do some leisurely reading this summer and these are the books I recommend:

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn - I bought this a while ago as it had a lot of hype surrounding it and I wanted to see what all the fuss was about (also there was a deal on and I love a bargain).  I haven't even seen the film yet either because I want to read the book first to see how they compare.  It seems right up my street as I love a good mystery so I'm excited to start reading this.   

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes - As the film of this has recently come out I obviously had to see it as it had an "About Time" and "The Notebook" vibe.  However, I was not impressed with the film because I felt like there was not much to the story and it wasn't as involved as the other films.  So I bought the book on a whim, hoping it would be better than the film, thinking it might have more to the story that they didn't include in the film.  However I am half way through and I feel it isn't any different but I will plough on. 

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle - Tolle is a spiritual teacher and offers an interesting insight into the spiritual world.  I do enjoy self-help books (not because I think I particularly need them or am going through a mid-life crisis - yet) because I like to have an understanding of alternative perspectives.  Books that make you think differently I find are incredibly insightful and this one is a good read.

Here We Lie by Sophie Mckenzie - I have been a fan of Mckenzie for as long as I can remember and absolutely love her writing style.  I have read many of her books but this is one I am yet to read.  Her books are so gripping my heart actually pounds when I read them, always leaving me in suspense.  100% worth a read.

What's on your reading list this summer? 

Isabelle x

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EVERYDAY MAKEUP

I always stick generally to the same routine when it comes to makeup; a neutral brown eye.  It is mundane and it is boring but it works for me.  I am scared of colour in pretty much all aspects of my life from clothes to even my bedroom (lovely beige walls).  Occasionally I'll throw in a bit of rusty orange, but only when I'm feeling exceptionally daring of course.

I love having a glowy look to my skin - the kind that radiates from VS models but not so much the afterglow of running for the bus.  I try to achieve this by starting off with my Clarins Beauty Flash balm and with a Real Techniques brush apply No 7 Airbrush Away foundation which is so silky on my skin.  I then pat the Seventeen phwoar Paint correcting concealer under my eyes to banish any dark circles then add the Collection lasting Perfection concealer on any blemishes. Bronzer is an essential for me and think this Kiko one does a good job of adding warmth back into my skin.  I then like to dust some highlighter over my cheeks and on the bridge of my nose to get that glow using Champagne Pop by Becca.  I use my Urban Decay Vice palette to define my eyes using the muted brown shades and then add Rimmel's 3D Lash mascara which separates and lengthens my eyelashes nicely.  I then finish the look off by applying my Maybelline Superstay lipstick with my finger to get a softer look.

How do you do your makeup? What's your favourite beauty product? 

Isabelle x

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TUMBLR ADDICT

I have a new tumblr and have been loving filling it with pretty pictures! I update it regularly so be sure to follow it: http://isabellemary.tumblr.com/

Isabelle x

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SELF-CONFIDENCE

There is so much pressure nowadays to be the best and outshine everyone else which is difficult when everybody is doing the same thing.  Sometimes the pressure can really get to us, causing self-doubt and stress.  Especially as exam season is fast approaching I think it is important to ensure that all the doubt and worry about not being good enough does not affect your ability to do well.

"Do what you have to do until you can do what you want to do."- Oprah Winfrey.  This enables me to become more motivated when I read this and gives me the confidence to keep going.  Whatever you may be struggling with at school, uni or work, just remember that even though it seems like a slog now, it will all be worth it eventually.

When you fail to be the best, get the best grades, get that promotion, or even get something right, try not to let that dent your confidence in yourself.  Easier said than done, I know.  Believing your self-worth surely is something that will become easier with time?  I think a lot of people can relate as it is a daily struggle but I've always been told that if you put in the hard work you will get there.  I'm hopeful anyway.

Isabelle x

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SKINCARE ROUTINE

My skin was playing havoc a little while ago and I was fed up with it.  I tend to get hot, itchy red spots around my chin and they were the bane of my life.  I felt embarrassed and self-concious and no matter what I used they just wouldn't leave. 

 I wanted to make a routine that cleared my skin and made me feel more confident.  I've never been to a dermatologist or ever suffered with acne for that matter but I just wanted to get my skin under control.  My main concern with my skin is dryness so hydrating products were the way to go for me. 

I cleanse my skin using the Olay Cleansing Milk with my Silvercrest Face Brush, removing any makeup from the day then polish my skin by exfoliating with the Botanics Face Scrub about three times a week, although it is gentle enough to use everyday before makeup, keeping my skin looking healthy and bright. I moisturise with the Botanics Hydrating Day Cream which is key for my parched skin and I find a little goes a long way.  I minimise any spots with the La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo which reduces any redness and painful spots overnight.

These products are cheap, yet work wonders for my skin.  What do you use on your skin?

Isabelle x

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