I’m a sucker for trying new brands and I’ve found with age that skincare has become a particular obsession of mine.
The Inkey List is the perfect mix of beautifully formulated products and reasonable prices. One of the reasons I find this brand so interesting is that they break down each step down so simply. Honestly, anyone can do it!
KNOWLEDGE
Built on a belief that better information drives better decisions, knowledge is at the heart of everything we do.
INGREDIENTS
We stand for transparency and innovative ingredients. Every ingredient is Tried, Tested and True.
PLANET
Making our packaging as easily recyclable as possible and reducing our climate impact to carbon net zero through action and offsetting.
This combination of products is perfect for my oily, blemish prone skin. It feels light and refreshing whilst still getting the job done and I’m just kind of here for it to be honest!
In regards to my before bed habits the following has been my go to…
It’s a nice balance to be honestly and feels really lightweight on the skin. The blemish treatment can be skipped of you don’t suffer from random isolated breakouts like I do (but it’s honestly a little gem!).
I also have some hair products that I am yet to try but will be back at a later date to let you know my thoughts.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the beauty industry is saturated. Which is great for the obsessed such as I but can be a tad overwhelming when it comes to shopping for a loved one or stocking up on essentials (treats!). I
’ve compiled a list of some of my favourite retailers that are the *chef’s kiss* of all things beauty.
If heart is what you’re after then Beauty Bay is the one for you. Boasting trending brands and products as well as on point tutorials and no holds barred information on EVERYTHING you could possibly want to know (yep, even the sexy stuff), BB is a power house not to be reckoned with.
How could I forget By Beauty Bay! That’s enough reason all in itself!
BEAUTY BAY’s mantra is to share our beauty obsessions with the world. Founded by two of life’s rebels who had no formal training, just a tonne of passion, we started out as a fragrance retailer and quickly discovered a whole universe of beauty just waiting to be unleashed.
We source the hard-to-find brands and products you can’t find elsewhere in order to bring our customers the best, first.
Hi! We’re Justmylook, one of the UK’s fastest growing beauty retailers. Since launching in early 2015, we have rapidly grown and now proudly present a range of over 7,000 products from 300+ prestige brands, including industry icons such as ghd to cult brands like The Ordinary.
From salon-exclusive hair care ranges to on-trend cosmetics, we’re trusted by hundreds of thousands of beauty lovers to deliver cutting-edge products directly to their doors.
A comprehensive collection of big name brands to satisfy even the biggest hoarder. Covering everything from skincare to beauty basics and tools to luxury brands, you’re set with Just My Look and their reliable service which guarantees satisfaction.
Cult Beauty to me just screams guilty pleasure, decadence and sleek glamour. With a huge selection of both luxury and affordable brands it’s no wonder the retailer lives up to its name.
Is your bathroom brimming with legions of barely-used lotions and potions that neither delight nor deliver? Are you bewildered by the marketing hyperbole (and unpronounceable ingredients) you come across while browsing never-ending beauty aisles?
Cult Beauty was born when two skin care obsessives grew frustrated by the all-too-often condescending messaging (and underwhelming offerings) they came across throughout the beauty industry. Having invested in innumerable ineffective creams and disappointing serums, Jess and Lex both vowed to boycott bathroom cabinets full of hollow promises (and wasted pounds).
As we continue to build our luxury portfolio of partners, we are constantly adapting to and welcoming new trends in the industry. With more clean, vegan and organic beauty brands than ever before across skin, hair and body care, we have everything onsite to suit every individual beauty need and concern.
LOOKFANTASTIC® is driven by a desire to create brilliant customer experiences, which are built from the insight and data executed through our integrated technology and expertise. Widening access to premium beauty and empowering men and women all over the world, we are leading the online beauty movement. Dedicated to delivering the very best in beauty, we also have an onsite blog led by our team of experts. Whatever your beauty concern or question, we have a bank of educational content to help you look and feel fantastic.
Luxury brands galore is what Feel Unique has to offer. From Benefit to Olaplex and Chanel to Dior what more could you possibly want?
Beauty that’s more than skin deep..
Founded in 2005, Feelunique is Europe’s leading online beauty retailer. From must-have palettes to game-changing skincare, there’s over 30,000 products at your fingertips.
Our philosophy is simple: beauty is more than skin deep. That’s why we’re as independent and inclusive as possible; providing trustworthy reviews and expert insights, so you can explore trends, find new favourites and discover the products that make you feel like you.
The character of Peter Parker has been approached in a variety of ways over the last 20 years and none of them have been wrong per say (because let’s face it, we all have our favourite Peter) but boy, have they been missing something.
I feel like in Tom Holland’s Peter we have achieved something magnificent. Character driven stories intertwined with action, fantasy and fast paced high stakes sequences.
It feels authentically Peter Parker. His super powers come second in this coming of age story which is ultimately just about a kid from Queens. Intelligent, brave and oh so awkward. Navigating his way through life, same as the rest of us.
It’s hard to go into the kind of detail I really want without spoiling anything so I think I’ll revisit this post at a later date.
No Way Home is beautifully shot and strikes the perfect balance of heart stopping and heart warming. A true celebration of the trilogy, Spider-Man and Peter Parker. Just absolutely stunning, I genuinely wouldn’t change a thing.
The superhero genre is so deeply ingrained in our popular culture, igniting dreams through the generations and truly cementing their place in cinematic history.
I just wanted to finish off by taking a moment to shout out my local cinema, Vue – Westwood Cross.
The staff are always extremely helpful and friendly but with such a huge occasion and what must have been an incredibly busy and tiring day the atmosphere was electric! The prep for No Way Home must have been rigorous but each and every staff member I encountered really put the effort in to be pleasant and hospitable. Honestly, it was just the perfect way to experience a once in a lifetime moment.
There’s just something about a mystery box that feels like the ultimate guilty pleasure.
Of course, it’s a mystery for starters so if ever there was the perfect opportunity to treat yourself whilst still feeling like you’re in present territory then this is it.
Unicorn Cosmetics have dabbled in Mystery boxes on and off for years but this Black Friday was something new entirely and takes the concept to a whole other level.
The Pink Allsorts Mystery Box which costs just £34.99 (worth £94.99) and contains 8 exclusive new products is pretty much the kind of thing I am 100% sure Lizzie McGuire’s daydreams are about.
Now the box is actually still available so I don’t want to spoilt it in it’s entirety BUT I’m sure you’ve all at least seen sneak peaks of the exclusive Pink Allsorts Eyeshadow Palette by now so I don’t feel too guilty sneak peaking that…
Isn’t she a beaut?! Throwing it back a couple of decades and celebrating everything that made our childhoods so special. It’s nostalgia in a palette!
With the kind of pigment UC is renowned for and a concept that just absolutely kills it I think it’s safe to say I’m wishing and hoping and thinking and praying that Unicorn Cosmetics are planning and dreaming (see what I did there? If you haven’t seen My Best Friend’s Wedding then we can’t be friends 😉) up their next mystery box, I’m thinking Valentine’s Day might be good?
Firstly I’d liked to just start by saying that some of these reads contain quite shocking content and could possibly be triggering for various reasons so please proceed with caution.
As part of my 2021 resolutions I promised myself I would read so much more than I did last year. It’s one of my absolute favourite past times and I usually fly through books one after the other, just devouring pages.
Unfortunately I fell victim to the constant mindless scrolling through social media on and off all day and just found it so hard to concentrate.
Well no more! Book worm Kel is back and she is here to stay so let’s begin.
Strap yourselves in because it’s going to be a wild ride.
Am I Guilty?
Jackie Kabler
I never thought it would happen to me…
One moment I had it all – a gorgeous husband, a beautiful home, a fulfilling career and two adorable children. The next, everything came crashing down around me.
They said it was my fault. They said I’m the worst mother in the world. And even though I can’t remember what happened that day, they wouldn’t lie to me. These are my friends, my family, people I trust.
But then why do I have this creeping sensation that something is wrong? Why do I feel like people are keeping secrets? Am I really as guilty as they say? And if I’m not, what will happen when the truth comes out…?
This one was featured on the House 21 podcast and guys, I’d downloaded it before Steph had even finished reciting the blurb.
I was hooked from start to finish (I’m a bit horrified looking back on it now but my family was pretty much ignored for twenty four hours because I was just that engrossed).
Jackie Kabler just had such an amazing way of telling this gut wrenching story full of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming.
I read a lot of thrillers and the storyline still felt unique and fresh, something I clung to until the very last word.
My heart raced and I felt sick at this tale that really did encompass a parents worst nightmares (which is incredibly impressive considering the fact Jackie is not a mother herself).
I can’t recommend it highly enough!
It’s Always The Husband
Michelle Campbell
…unless it’s the best friend.
Kate, Aubrey and Jenny are inseparable at college – friends who promised they’d always be there for each other.
But twenty years later, their friendship is about to take a deadly turn.
Kate married the gorgeous party boy, Aubrey married up, and Jenny married the boy next door, but when one of the friends dies in shocking circumstances, will everyone assume that it’s always the husband? Or could it be the best friend?
Oh god, where do I start? I just hated it. There was not one likeable or relatable character through the whole bloody book.
I didn’t like the way it was paced, nothing much seemed to really happen with the majority of the story being set before the the event mentioned in the blurb had even happened.
The ending was also quite abrupt and felt rushed and unfinished. I would say that I’m a fan of two different types of ending. The ones with a twist that just leave you wanting more and those that wrap everything up, nice and neatly so that you feel satisfied. This has neither.
I definitely wasn’t enamoured with it.
What You Did
Claire McGowan
It was supposed to be the perfect reunion: six university friends together again after twenty years. Host Ali finally has the life she always wanted, a career she can be proud of and a wonderful family with her college boyfriend, now husband. But that night her best friend makes an accusation so shocking that nothing will ever be the same again.
When Karen staggers in from the garden, bleeding and traumatised, she claims that she has been assaulted—by Ali’s husband, Mike. Ali must make a split-second decision: who should she believe? Her horrified husband, or her best friend? With Mike offering a very different version of events, Ali knows one of them is lying—but which? And why?
When the ensuing chaos forces her to re-examine the golden era the group shared at university, Ali realises there are darker memories too. Memories that have lain dormant for decades. Memories someone would kill to protect.
Coming across this one completely by chance on kindle unlimited was certainly a treat.
Claire McGowan, you have a new fan!
Whilst being told from mainly the perspective of what I would say was the main character ‘Ali’ you are also given glimpses into the psyche of various other guests at the aforementioned reunion which was a refreshing change of scenery at times.
The characters all felt well rounded and realistically flawed. People you could easily know in real life.
A hard read with some upsetting content but something I’m very glad I took a chance on.
Blood Orange
Harriet Tyce
Alison has it all. A doting husband, adorable daughter, and a career on the rise – she’s just been given her first murder case to defend. But all is never as it seems…
Just one more night. Then I’ll end it.
Alison drinks too much. She’s neglecting her family. And she’s having an affair with a colleague whose taste for pushing boundaries may be more than she can handle.
I did it. I killed him. I should be locked up.
Alison’s client doesn’t deny that she stabbed her husband – she wants to plead guilty. And yet something about her story is deeply amiss. Saving this woman may be the first step to Alison saving herself.
I’m watching you. I know what you’re doing.
But someone knows Alison’s secrets. Someone who wants to make her pay for what she’s done, and who won’t stop until she’s lost everything….
I had heard so many amazing things about Blood Orange and for the most part I can say I wasn’t disappointed!
Honestly I do think it was a little bit predictable in parts but that didn’t stop me loving every minute of this twisted tale about a woman’s family life and mental well being balancing on the edge of a face paced career.
The storyline was dark from beginning to end which I really liked although I think I’ll definitely opt for something a lot lighter next time to compensate!
The Other Woman
Sandie Jones
When Emily meets Adam she knows he is the One.
That together they can deal with anything that is thrown at them.
But lurking in the shadows is another woman, Pammie.
Emily chose Adam, but she didn’t choose his mother.
There’s nothing a mother wouldn’t do for her son, and now Emily is about to find out just how far Pammie will go to get what she wants…
Oh my lord, what can I even say. My heart legit hasn’t even stopped thumping yet. I read ‘The Other Woman’ in one day because I genuinely just couldn’t put the bloody thing down.
I was sucked in very early on, dying to know what the hell was going on in this awful woman’s head whilst also still not massively warming to the books protagonist.
The whole plot was just utter madness yet still managed to be believable in a way.
I’m always up for suggestions if you feel like you’ve read something I’d like so throw them at me!
I’ve spoken about my love for Beauty Bay and their By Beauty Bay range before and I’m sure there is really no doubt that I adore just about everything they do.
Winter is in full swing right now and I don’t know about you guys but boy is my skin suffering! I’m both oily and blemish prone as well as living on very little sleep so I really could use all the help I can get!
I’ve cultivated a routine using solely By Beauty Bay products and it seems to be working a treat so thought I’d share it with you all in the hopes it’ll help someone else too!
AM…
As much as I wish I could just roll out of bed looking like a glowing Greek Goddess alas that is just not the hand I was dealt.
This 4 step/5 product morning routine is my fool proof formula to leaving the house feeling and looking refreshed.
Mix the Day One Moisturiser together with SkinHit Protecting Serum (or any SkinHit serum for that matter!) for a customised formula to suit your specific needs.
Head this way for perfect skin with the Acid Trip Exfoliating Toner with AHA and PHA from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This exfoliating toner combines multiple forms of acid-based exfoliants, which target different layers of the skin. A blend of AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acid work to refine, brighten, and even skin tone, whilst PHA (gluconolactone) helps to promote softer and smoother skin. Pores will be cleared and cellular turnover will be increased, which all results in a decongested, smoother, and brighter looking complexion.
Put your best face forward with the By BEAUTY BAY SkinHit Hyperpigmentation Serum with Tranexamic Acid and Alpha Arbutin. Enriched with brightening tranexamic acid plus alpha arbutin to even out skin tone, this brightening serum is a name to know for reducing the appearance of pigmentation, dark spots, scarring and dullness.
This is your new skincare go-to. The Day One Moisturiser with Ginseng and Squalane from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range is a lightweight gel-cream moisturiser that helps to protect and hydrate the skin. Enriched with Indian ginseng to shield against screen-emitted light and olive squalane which helps to hydrate the skin. The moisturising and skin conditioning actives make this moisturiser a great makeup primer to lock your look in place all day long.
Protect your skin from whatever daily life throws at you with the SkinHit Protecting Serum with Anti-Pollution and Blue Light Actives from Skincare By BEAUTY BAY. Rich in antioxidants, this is the serum you need to shield your skin from environmental nasties that can lead to dullness and upset complexions. Formulated with an anti-pollution active that helps to protect the skin from external aggressors and free radicals, as well as a blue light active that shields your skin from screen-emitted light, whilst also helping to brighten and restore radiance. This is the ultimate everyday serum for your skin.
As night rolls round once again and all you want to do is jump into bed it’s important to make sure your skin gets what it needs.
Assuming you’ve already taken off your make up (for which I recommend the Butter Cup Cleansing Balm) then you can jump right into this quick PM routine before you get some well deserved rest.
Refresh your skin with the Super Jelly Cleansing Gel with Prebiotic and Avocado from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This non-foaming, non-stripping cleansing gel supports balanced and healthy-looking skin that feels fresh, cleansed, and revitalised. Formulated with prebiotics, a hero skincare ingredient that helps to support the skin’s barrier, as well as avocado oil which helps to gently cleanse and moisturise the skin. Leave your skin feeling clean but comfortable.
Quench your skin’s thirst with the Make It Rain Face Mist with Mineral and Super Berry Blend from the Skincare By BEAUTY BAY range. This hydrating face mist rains down onto skin to energise and refresh the complexion. This mist has been formulated with a blend of minerals that hydrate and energise the skin, and a trio of nourishing Australian berries which encourage a radiant and healthy-looking glow. Use before makeup, after makeup, or as a refreshing top-up during the day to give your skin a refresh.
For skin that is hydrated, smooth and clear, make an appointment with the By BEAUTY BAY SkinHit 0.2% Retinol Complex Serum with Retinol and Peptides. This skin-loving serum helps to improve the appearance of pigmentation, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles thanks to the 0.2% retinol complex while added peptides infuse the skin with moisture, helping to improve the skin’s clarity. Perfect for first time retinol users, this serum is soon to be your new BFF.
Your beauty sleep is about to get an upgrade with By BEAUTY BAY’s 2% BHA Overnight Mask with Salicylic Acid and Azelaic Acid. The targeted overnight face mask works to gently exfoliate and refresh the skin, all while soothing, brightening, and helping the appearance of pores. 2% BHA salicylic acid helps to gently exfoliate and condition blemish prone skin, while azelaic acid helps to soothe the skin and reduce the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, all while you sleep!
Meet your next go-to skincare treatment: By BEAUTY BAY’s 30% AHA 2% BHA Peeling Solution Drops with Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid. The targeted solution has been designed to help exfoliate away dead and dull skin, unclog pores, and reduce excess oil on all skin types. With a red colour for easy application and removal, the treatment has been formulated with glycolic and lactic acid (AHA 30%) to help clear and improve the skin’s texture through exfoliation, plus refreshing aloe vera and salicylic acid (BHA 2%) to exfoliate, for clearer looking skin.
Banish breakouts for good with the Dot-A-Spot Glow In The Dark Blemish Stickers from Skincare By BEAUTY BAY. These super-cute, fun shaped, glow in the dark hydrocolloid patches are designed to help you tackle breakouts. Each moon and cloud shaped hydrocolloid-infused patch works to draw out pus and other impurities from developing blemishes, as well as reducing the size of already present spots. Use these stickers (that are clear in daylight) to dot your way to clearer skin.
To be able to get the most out of your brand new skincare routine then you’re going to need the right tools! Not only will it elevate things to another level of luxury but you’ll also be surprised at what a difference they make to your products!
Here to help you relax and unwind is the BEAUTY BAY The Rose Quartz Facial Roller. Inspired by ancient Chinese rituals, this dual-ended facial massage tool is the game changer that your beauty routine needs. Made from 100% rose quartz, this facial roller helps to reduce facial tension, aid lymphatic drainage, and increase the absorption of your favourite skincare formulas. Traditionally known to represent self-love, peace, and inner healing, this rose quartz tool will help to restore a sense of calm and tranquillity at the end of a long day. Healthy skin = happy skin.
Here to help you relax and unwind is the BEAUTY BAY The Rose Quartz Gua Sha. Inspired by ancient Chinese rituals, this heart-shaped facial massage tool is the edition that your beauty routine needs. Made from 100% rose quartz, this gua sha helps to reduce facial tension, aid lymphatic drainage, and increase the absorption of your favourite skincare formulas. Traditionally known to represent self-love, peace, and inner healing, this rose quartz tool will help to restore a sense of wellbeing and tranquillity at the end of a long day. Healthy skin = happy skin.
Haven’t watched WandaVision on Disney+ yet?: Watch here.
Hands up if you’re a Marvel fan! When these most treasured stories and characters started making their way to the big screen in what is now known as the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) over ten years ago I was both hesitant and overjoyed. Thankfully (in my opinion) it has been done justice (mostly).
‘WandaVision’, a Disney+ original series based on the ‘House of M’ story arc has been one of its most exciting additions so far. Full of mystery, suspense and intrigue as well as a healthy dose of humour and heartache. It has everything you could possibly want from a Marvel release and I honestly think it’s a worthy rival to any of the bigger budget movies.
Set three weeks after the events of Avengers: End Game (2019), Wanda Maximoff and Vision are living an idyllic suburban life in the town of Westview, New Jersey, trying to conceal their true natures. As they begin to enter new decades and encounter television tropes, the couple suspects that things are not as they seem.
Wikipedia
Sounds confusing, right? Well it is but in the best way possible!
Wanda is played by Elizabeth Olsen (younger sister of the ICONIC Olsen Twins) in such a way that you both adore and fear her, with power that seemingly knows no bounds hiding a vulnerability you can’t help but be drawn to. This is perfectly complimented by Paul Bettany’s Vision, A vibranium-synthezoid (kinda like a fancy robot) brought to life by a combination of the Mind Stone and Tony Starks AI J.A.R.V.I.S (Just A Rather Very Intelligent System), the love of Wanda’s life whose deeply honourable intentions don’t always align with her own.
If you’re a fan of the MCU (which you need to be really or you won’t have a clue what the hell is actually going on) then you will be pleased to see quite a few familiar faces thrown into the Wandavision mix. I do love a cameo!
With nine Wandavision episodes ranging anywhere from half an hour to fifty minutes, there was a lot of time to explore the new world that Wanda and Vision found themselves in. Discovering secrets and betrayal along the way, all leading to the most heart wrenching conclusion that anyone could have imagined.
The series leaves you wanting more by opening the doors to various storylines that will undoubtedly be told in future Marvel releases. Which is great as WandaVision was written as a limited series with no plans for any further episodes (although you’ll be happy to know that we WILL see Wanda again in ‘Dr Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ which is due for release next year).
All in all I genuinely don’t think the the story could have been told any better than it was and Elizabeth Olsen is a shining jewel in the MCU crown (or should that be infinity stone in the gauntlet?!). I hope her presence becomes even more prominent in the next phase of the franchises universe.
To finish off I just want to add some of my favourite parts of the series:
– Wanda’s retro Scarlet Witch costume. Well everyone’s really!
– Evan Peters popping his head in. What a treat!
– How effortlessly the show seemed to jump between time zones and tropes.
– Every single opening credit scene. They deserve a blog post of their own!
– The sheer amount of marvel Easter eggs we were graced with. The attention to detail is immense.
The beauty industry has gone from strength to strength in recent years, especially with the rise of the ‘influencer‘ and power of social media. With an incredibly saturated market, an endless supply of near identical products and concepts it’s hard to know where to invest your hard earned cash. I’m here today to share with some of my favourite brands created and headed by female entrepreneurs as well as my go to products. Why they’re so special and deserve your support.Like the Spice Girls said once upon a time (and is definitely the theme of today’s post) Girl Power!
Unicorn Cosmetics founder Mel had always experimented with colour through fashion and hair (she has worked her way through the rainbow and honestly, I’m so jealous because she always looks amazing!). Her journey began with the realisation that she could bring something new and exciting to the table.
The makeup world was very different to what it is now, everything was black and more black. Makeup brushes were honestly one of the less expensive products to fund and I was obsessed at the time with buying MAC brushes, but hated that they were so boring and pretty basic. I just didnt understand why no one had done a multi-coloured hair makeup brush that had a different shape handle, and that’s where it started really.
Which actually brings us to the brands thoroughly recognisable name.
Unicorn was picked because it’s such a unique creature and magical. That’s all my brand is meant to be about, unique magical products that make you feel inspired and are ground breaking in design and quality.
Mel Blue
The UC Pro Unicorn Brush Range has been a resounding success with professional make up artists and enthusiasts such as myself giving them rave reviews across the board. The class of 86’ eye brush set is one of my most favourite purchases ever! Mel has managed to create tools of a professional standard at an accessible price which is so important especially at the moment when financially so many people are struggling.
If you follow UC across social media then you will probably already have seen a sneak peak of the Glow Ting highlighter (which Mel admits is her favourite creation so far!) and I will be first in line to get my hands on it when it drops, is there anything better than a glow that can be seen from space? I’ve also been told there are some other exciting launches planned for later this year!
Not only is Mel a hard working, strong business woman, she is also just a genuinely nice person! Praising her UC team (who she says have become her family), followers and supporters who have helped her build the brand up to what it is today.
You really need to find the right people to surround yourself with, and don’t be disheartened if you don’t get it right the first time, it’s a really big learning curve. No one loves your brand/business more than what you do, so always follow your gut. Business is one huge lesson. But more than anything I would say protect your creativity in legal terms, trust your instinct and dont be scared to say no.
Arttitude Cosmetics (which is completely vegan and cruelty free) was founded in 2019 by Rukhsaar (who is also a full time clinical scientist if she wasn’t already busy enough!). The brand boasts a full line of lashes, gorgeous lip products and the most beautiful rainbow palette you ever did see. She fell in love with the beauty industry and make up artistry after working in the family business, Arttitude Studios.
My mum has been working as a make-up artist since the early 2000’s and it was her that inspired me to learn make-up which is where I developed my passion from. When she started working as an MUA, make-up wasn’t what it is now. She wanted to challenge those norms and put the art back into make-up artistry and give it a whole new attitude, and that’s where the name comes from – her make-up studio was called Arttitude Studios, so she actually named the brand!
Rukhsaar
The Arttitude product line (which started with lashes) was originally designed with the studios clients in mind. After struggling to find the perfect lash for each client the decision was made to create their own! Each with its own luxury feel and presentation to make the experience even more special.
Building up a business whilst holding down a full time job as a health care professional isn’t something everyone can do and that’s what makes Ruks the ultimate inspiration. Arttitude Cosmetics is all about community. The brand is incredibly supportive of the artists they work with and constantly strives to give back to those who have supported the company as it grows. Her advice to others with dreams of starting their own business is straight to the point but also full of love. Exactly like the brand itself!
It is hard work. Expect to be working around the clock. Don’t expect to plant the seed and eat the fruit the same day. Read, read and read some more! Remember – the first year in business is just about surviving. But, having said all this. Go for it and don’t hold back. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life wondering, ‘what if.’ Take the risk, work hard, and you have all my love and best wishes for your every success.
Spectrum was started by sisters Sophie and Hannah in April 2014, born from a garage in Barry, South Wales.
Spectrum has gone from strength to strength in the years since then and has become a brand recognised across the world. Offering premium quality products that are always vegan and cruelty free (the sisters are TRUE animal lovers).
The duo who have always been fiercely passionate about beauty and fashion and feel strongly that make-up is more than just a visual thing.
A beauty routine is a ritual that when shared can bring so much happiness and really become a bonding experience. Makeup isn’t just functional, it’s very emotional.
Sophie & Hannah
Combining both beauty and fashion to create Spectrum was a genius decision. The brushes are by far some of the most beautiful I have ever seen, functional and made to a professional standard yet stylish and bold. The perfect dressing table accessories.
Having branched into cosmetics last year I now feel that there is no stopping the brand which is run by a predominantly female team.
And guys, have you seen their Disney collections? Because you know I am all about that life!
Paige Louise (PLouise) had loved and experimented with make up from a young age which ultimately led her to begin training as an MUA at 20. From there she grew more confident within her artistry and formed her own opinions on what worked and didn’t work within the beauty industry.
I used to stare at these gorgeous shadows sitting in these luxury palettes and then get very frustrated when I didn’t receive the colour pay-off on my clients’ eyelids.
Paige Louise
P.Louise Make Up Academy (which includes an aesthetics studio, hair lounge, state of the art classrooms and student facilities plus a swanky beauty lounge) opened in 2014. It was the foundation for the brand to really take the world by storm in 2018. After spotting a gap in the market, Paige was able to realise her dream and launch the now globally recognised brand.
I think it’s fair to say one of the most famous products to hit the industry in recent years has got to be the P.Louise Base.
I very quickly realised I needed a product that would clean up the eye area, neutralise any pigmentation and would be ready to give my shadows the best shot at living their best life.
Paige Louise
It is beloved by influencers and make up artists world wide and in my opinion really is worth the hype.
Going off on a slight tangent but oily skinned spectacle wearers like myself will appreciate this little trick I’ve picked up recently. Apply a touch of the base onto your nose and blend with a sponge. This will give the area a super base for the rest of your make up that doesn’t budge!
Anyway, I digress.
The brand now boasts an impressive array of products including eyeshadow palettes, paints and brushes as well as a fashion line co-owned by her brother.
Paige has proved herself to be a down to earth, kind hearted and driven young woman. I can’t wait to see what else she has planned for the industry.
Lois Cosmetics launched back in 2020 (and what a bloody year to start a business guys, BRAVE or what?!).
You know I’m all about girl power and this female founded brand hasn’t let the pandemic stop them from taking the beauty community by storm with not one but three high quality eyeshadow palettes all with their own individual theme and story.
With many years experience as a professional makeup artists, working with top brands and celebrities all around the world it would have been a crying shame for Lois not to put her expertise towards building a brand that is not only socially conscious but also right on the mark when it comes to trends.
With an ever expanding range of beautiful products there is truly something for everyone. Treat yourself to the most stunning liquid eyeshadows whilst also filling your basket with brand spanking new makeup brushes and eyeliners.
I can already tell that LC is fast becoming a lifelong obsession.
These women are a force to be reckoned with and I personally find their stories to be full on power and inspiration. I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s posts and I would be so interested to hear all about your own favourite female led brands!
I’m a big believer in the power of a good red lipstick (and if you’re a long time reader or follow me over on Instagram you’ll have heard me say words to that effect many times).
The festive season is my favourite time of year when it comes to the beauty industry because it’s just so extra! Red lips and sparkly eyes everywhere and I’m living for it.
So with that in mind (as well as the ever expanding list of people I have to buy for!) I thought now would be a good time to recommend some of my favourite red lipstick for when you’re on a budget (or like me believe that quality does not always have to cost the Earth).
Introducing the Revolution Pro New Neutral Satin Matte lipsticks, our best-selling lipstick formula – with an upgrade!
The new and improved collection features the same incredible highly pigmented lipstick formula; just one swipe across the lips will leave you with full coverage and comfortable colour – that lasts.
Housed in a new leopard print bullet for ultimate glamour, it features a magnetic soft-close clasp for sheer luxury.
The silky-smooth satin-matte formula has gentle moisturising properties which help to keep lips soft and luscious all day.
No bleeding, no drying, no cracking, whether it’s day or night, achieve a seamless finish and a perfect pout.
Available in an edit of universally flattering shades from nudes to pinks to brights; find a colour perfect for any skin tone, any age, and any occasion.
Let your lips do the talking with By BEAUTY BAY’s range of gorgeous matte lipsticks. With an ultra-creamy, intensely pigmented formula, the lipsticks are here to add the finishing touch to all your makeup looks. With eight shades to collect, the lipsticks have a comfortable wearing, extremely long-lasting and a smudge proof finish to last you from day to night, and sweet vanilla scent for that little extra oomph. You’re going to be obsessed.
If you’re after a true red to take you from day to night without feeling unnecessarily self conscious then ‘Sauce’ is your girl! Such an easy transitional shade for all year round (which is great if you don’t want to invest in a huge collection!). Vegan and cruelty free of course.
Treat your lips to the By BEAUTY BAY Crème Lipstick. With an ultra-creamy, ultra-pigmented new formula, guaranteed to take your lips to new levels of glamour, these lipsticks deliver nothing but pure colour and a luminous finish in just one stroke. With a limited-edition glitter finish on bullet (that doesn’t transfer onto the lips), it’s time to pick your shade or collect them all, for a buildable lip look that will last all day and night.
Named after 20 strong women who have inspired Founder Marissa Carter, Carter Beauty by Marissa Carter Word of Mouth Matte Lipstick has been formulated to offer stay all day pout perfection.
Probably the most used red within my vast (VAST) collection. She’s a comfortable matte with a long lasting and durable formula guaranteed to impress.
Easily paired with the matching CB Free Speech Lip Tint if a glossy finish is more your style. Cruelty free guys, you know the drill.
The Wild Card…
Arttitude Cosmetics|Ultimate Red Lip Set
Shades – Inferno, Legacy and Conquer £24.99
Find your perfect red with our ultimate red lip kit – from the Born From The Ashes collection. Includes creamy satin finish lip bullets in 3 different shades of red, so you can find a classic red lip for every mood. Wear them on their own, or mix them together for the perfect ombre red lip.
We all have a phoenix inside of us – waiting to be reborn.
arttitudecosmetics.com
Ok, ok I know this is technically cheating as I’ve already given you 5 strong contenders and this set is over £10 but if you price it up per lipstick they’re actually only £8.33 each sooo…
They’re just so lush.
I hope you’ve found you’re perfect red somewhere amongst my favourites!
Introducing our brand new phoenix eyeshadow palette. A gorgeous 25 shade palette, with a mixture of warm and cool tones, and 5 incredible formulas – the possibilities are endless!
Find your perfect red with our ultimate red lip kit – from the Born From The Ashes collection. Includes creamy satin finish lip bullets in 3 different shades of red, so you can find a classic red lip for every mood. Wear them on their own, or mix them together for the perfect ombre red lip.
Introducing our gorgeous Eternity lashes – the first of our clear band lashes at Arttitude Cosmetics, and part of our Born From The Ashes collection. A luxurious wispy lash with a fluffy outer wing, and beautiful curl – these lashes are absolutely perfect for every eye shape! And the best part is – they are 100% vegan and cruelty free.
The first ever brush set from Arttitude Cosmetics. This 12 piece set has been completely custom made, and contains a range of brushes perfect for make-up artists to create any look desired! The brush set includes small fluffy brushes and a pointed detailing brush designed to work with minimal eye space, to achieve precise perfect blends.
Our gorgeous red and black marble beauty blender is perfect for applying your base evenly, and minimising the appearance of pores. Achieve a perfect flawless complexion every time.
Each component of the collection has been crafted to perfection to for the brief seamlessly. Working beautifully on their own as well as together.
The Phoenix Eyeshadow Palette is a stunning addition to the Arttitude Cosmetics family and I can’t wait to see the daring combinations artists will create together with the pre-existing palettes.
The chameleon multichrome shades (Phoenix and Dreams) are truly the star of the show (although saying that I’m a self confessed brush hoarder and these beauties are INSANE).
The lipsticks (Inferno, Legacy and Conquer) are the perfect combination of creamy and long lasting. Taking classic reds and giving them a modern day twist.
Dreadfully Kelly 