Avon Argon Oil Review

I don't use many products on my hair, simply because I don't tend to find it needs it (though I am searching for a good spray to calm some of the frizz. If you have any recommendations, please let me know). However, now it's winter it's become a bit dry like everything else and I was searching for something to give it a bit of extra moisture.

Enter Argon Oil. I know, I know, I'm pretty late to the party in regards to this. I wish I'd joined sooner because this stuff is good. This is the 'Advance Techniques 360 Nourishment Moroccan Argon Oil Leave in Treatment' (bit of a mouthful) from Avon and is currently only a couple of pounds. It's suitable for wet or dry hair but I use mine after I've combed it through in the shower, distributing it all through my hair but focusing on the ends as these get the driest. Don't expect dramatic results with this-it does what it says on the tin, but it does it pretty well. And for that price, who's complaining?

Helen x

What I'm Currently Loving

Porridge

I'm normally in such a rush in the mornings I barely have time to shove some toast in my mouth whilst applying concealer, packing my bag, and finding matching socks. When I have a little extra time however I like to make some porridge. I make mine with half milk, half water, and simply microwave it till thick (I like mine pretty solid…yum)  My favourite toppings are banana, brown sugar, red berries and granola.

Suits

Not the clothing, the programme. I've been re-watching this series about an American law firm over the holidays, and I'm completely gripped. It's so good! I really love the central characters and how they're constantly evolving as the plot develops.


Writing letters

I know it seems a bit out of date, what with facebook and twitter etc making it so easy to keep in touch, but there's nothing quite like writing letters (or receiving them-it makes a nice change from bank statements). At the moment I'm using this letter set from Paperchase which always makes me smile, it's so bright and cheerful. 

Helen x

Classy Christmas Nails

I spotted this OPI Polish recently and realised I'd never worn it. It's perfect for Christmas-a deep dark red with tiny specks of glitter. It's sophisticated but still festive. Ticks all the boxes. 

The Season For Sparkle

When the decorations are unpacked and on the tree, the lights strung up and the tinsel on every surface, you know it’s time for some sparkle on your fingers.

A glitter polish is a really quick, easy way to get the festive spirit on your nails. These are my favourites this Christmas.

Barry M has a very good range of glitter nail polish which are easy to apply and last for around 5 days. Their only disadvantage is that they take a lot of effort and polish remover to get off (like most glitter polishes) but I reckon it’s worth it. Both of these work well layered up on their own, or as a top coat. The green is a recent buy in time for Christmas-it reminds me of a Christmas tree and has little silver stars in it-how could I resist?

The Barry M polish with the lovely glittery lid has recently vanished from my room (really need to have a tidy) but it too works very well on a bare nail as the glitter is pretty concentrated. 

I like to wear this OPI silver layered on top of a dark red or purple, or to add an accent nail.

Similarly, this Ciate silver is great for layering. The glitter in this one is more concentrated than the OPI so it could be worn on its own.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas

Helen x

Books Of The Month

My mum recommended this months book to me-The Little stranger by Sarah Waters. It's not something I would normally read because I'm a bit of a wimp when it comes to reading and anything scarier than Paddington is likely to give me nightmares (Okay, I'm not that bad, but it's pretty close.) I really enjoyed it however and literally couldn't put it down. Its set post war and is focused on a large country hall in which there's some spooky goings on...

What I found really interesting however is the observations about social class that are scattered throughout this novel and the idea of changing classes, or belonging to more than one. The momentum builds up until the very clever ending which took me completely by surprise

Sarah Waters written quite a few books, which I'm now going to have to borrow (steal) from mum.

Helen x

Beauty Bargain Of The Month

I never tried anything from the Skincare brand Witch before, but recently picked up this Blemish stick.

As the name suggests, it contains Witch hazel which is a natural ingredient that soothes and tones the skin. It also has alcohol, to target and prevent blemishes, as well as Glycerin which calms the skin. It claims to break down excess oil and prevent the recurrence of pesky spots. Although its a slightly alarming colour, it applies clear and isn't sticky at all, so could probably be worn under makeup. 

I've only been using this for a week or so, but can already see an improvement in my skin.

What I'm Currently Loving

Firstly, sorry I've been neglecting my blog recently. I started sixth form recently so haven't had much spare time.

Recently I've really got back into using this cute Lorac Pro eyeshadow pallette. It has two shimmer shades: Nude and Pewter, and one matte shade aptly named Espresso. The pigmentation of all three is great, and even for someone with fairly oily eyelids like me (eww) it lasts all day without creasing. The packaging is really good as it has a little mirror so is handy to have in your makeup bag.

Next is TV. There's lots of crime dramas on at the moment, but the one I'm loyal to is Lewis. It's now on it's eighth series and still perfect to snuggle on the sofa and watch. The storylines are always very clever and complicated and keep you guessing till the end. It's on ITV 1 on Fridays at 9.

I don't own many pairs of leggings, but recently I've been wishing I did. They're great for days when you open the wardrobe and realize actually all you want to do is stay in your pjs. The Topshop patterned leggings are my favourites, as they're a bit thicker than normal leggings and the bright patterns mean you don't have to try too hard with the rest of your outfit.

Helen x

P.S I promise I'll try and post more regularly from now on!