Beauty Buys...

I recently mentioned (here) that I was building up my make-up bag and started with my foundation. Now, I thought that I should reap the benefits of being in Duty-Free before my holiday and treated myself to a new mascara. 

I've had my eyes on a few recently, YSL Shocking Mascara and Lancome Hypnose Star Mascara, however, I didn't end up purchasing either.  I do still want to try the YSL one but I was on the hunt for a waterproof one (for holiday) and sadly they didn't have this option.

I ended up purchasing Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes (Waterproof)...

Dreaming of a Doll Lash effect?

Hypnôse Doll Eyes Waterproof coats every single lash without weighing them down, for a wide-eye look.Results: A volumised, extended, lifted lash look.

I have to say I really like this mascara, it's my favourite that I have used in a long time! I like the brush/wand, which was what put me off the Hypnose Star mascara - I prefer a fuller thicker brush/wand to really coat my lashes. Which is why the Hypnose Drama may be on my list next...

I usually wear quite heavy eyeliner, but with just a few coats and curled lashes, this mascara really does open your eyes and has a great look, both volumised and extended.

As for waterproof, it is the best waterproof mascara I have used, the majority stays put but after a long day in the sun/in the pool it did eventually come off and there were slight grey smudges under my eyes... but nothing like panda eyes at all!  

My other recent buy, which is actually a gift is the Chanel Coco Noir perfume, from my very lovely boyfriend!

So now I smell lovely!

Next on my list is concealer... does anyone have an recommendations or links to their reviews please?

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra 24H

Now building my essentials wardrobe is not just restricted to my clothing, but includes my make up also!

I used to always buy expensive/luxe make-up whilst living at home and working but during university it was a very expensive habit to upkeep.  However, now I have re-joined the working world, I felt it was important to start building my make-up collection once more.

I really notice the difference between luxe make up and 'cheapy' make-up, don't get me wrong there are some great high-street beauty products, but sometimes you do need to spend a tiny bit extra for quality. I'm building my collection gradually as there is no way I could do it all at once!

I've started with my foundation...

I've gone with Lancome Teint Idole Ultra 24.

I did a lot of research and looked in to Mac, Estee Lauder, Nars and YSL, however, after reading lots of reviews, asking friends and trying swatches on my hand I felt that Lancome was the best for me.

It has a lovely velvety matte finish and you don't feel like you are caked in make up, it gives great coverage and is buildable so you can make it suit you. The girl at the counter was SO lovely and that really helps when you are unsure and trying something new.  It really does last all day and I leave work, travel on the muggy central line and it's still doing a good job. 

I have it in 03 Beige Diaphane, which is slightly darker than my natural complexion but as I'm off on holiday and usually wear fake tan it is perfect. 01 Beige Albatre was a perfect match to my skin so I may swap to this in winter once my tan has faded. 

I highly recommend it!