Monday, September 13, 2010

New Space: Check Us Out On Wordpress!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/deannastaffo/3269246813/

So we made the descision to mosey on over to Wordpress, we're still getting the site up and running so that it's just as perky and pretty as we love it, but we're pretty happy with it so far.

It'd be super fantastic if you'd keep following us over there! i.e. HERE

Farewell!

xx

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Benefit's Posietint

The Benefit Posietinit, what a beauty, beautetts. It's fabulous and after one of my University girlfriends asked me what my favourite Benefit beauty product was, well, I couldn't help but tell her all about this little baby.


Benefit Cosmetics is just marvellous, developed way back in 1976 by the Ford twins, it quickly became an internationally recognised brand. Loved by many beauty editors and writers (I know, I follow them on twitter and asked), this "frisky" luxury brand has endless "must have" unique products.

My current* favourite is, of course, the Posietint. It's a poppy-pink tinted lip and cheek stain that when applied properly, provides your skin with a light pink, luminous glow all day long.

All it takes is three little strokes on the apple of your cheeks, quickly blended with fingertips and voila! (I apply over a powdered blush - Benefit's CORALista is my current pick). And for your pout, dot onto lips and blend. For a deeper "pop" of colour, repeat. Easy. Right? Right. And if you prepare your face properly (I'm talking to you cleanser, toner, moisturiser and primer) before applying the product, it should last you all day long - albeit another application before afterwork cockatails with the girls.

The Posietint is honestly the cheekiest, girly flush you can get out of a bottle. You should try it, you'll love it (you can purchase it online for $28).

A few of their other wonder products that I simply cannot wait to wrap my beauty obsessed mitts around are the 'Benetint' (a rose-tinted lip and cheek stain), the 'Highbeam' (luminescent complexion enhancer), the 'Brows-a-go-go' and the 'My Treat' lippy. I'll let you know how they go...

Have you tried any of these products?
Are you also obsessed with Benefit Cosmetics?
What's your favourite beauty brand?

*I say 'current' with caution. As soon as I get another one of their delectable prodz in my hand I'm likely to declare that one as my favourite.


Monday, August 23, 2010

Comic Books, Video Games and Hilarious Lines! Scott Pilgrim - The Review


So I went to see Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World the other day and I'd like to announce that I am well and truly in love. In fact this year has been big on movie love for me, first Kick Ass, then Inception and finally Scott Pilgrim. It takes a lot to drag me away from my sofa and 260 DVD collection for a $15 movie ticket (although truthfully berry Choc Tops help!) so this year has been full of a whole load of POW for me! 

For those who don't know Scott Pilgrim is the character from a series of comic books by Brian Lee O'Malley. He's 22, dating a high schooler and bassist in a band. Things change when he falls in love with the striking pink-haired Ramona Flowers after she rollerblades her ways through his dreams. 


Then Scott finds out that in order to date Ramona he has to first defeat her 7 evil exes. 

The movie has hilarious lines and is highly recommended for anyone who likes comic books or video games. 
(Sitting around during a band practice)
Knives Chau: So what do you play?
Yong Neil: Huh? Um... Zelda, Tetris, Metroid... It's kind of a big question...

Even for those who aren't big on those sorts of things, I hope people will still find it a hilarious film. I know I'm a little bit biased. While Michael Cera plays pretty much the same character he plays in ever film/TV show he's ever been in (except perhaps half of Youth in Revolt, which I'm still yet to see) and while I don't have a problem with this I think it leaves some of the stand out performances to some of the other actors. My favourites were definitely Mary Elizabeth Winstead who played the lovely Ramona Flowers and Kieran Culkin who plays Scott's hilarious hilarious housemate. 

I get that Scott Pilgrim may not be everyone's cup of tea, but even if you're not sure about it go watch it anyway... because the more people that buy ticket to go see this movie the higher chance that they'll make more amazing movies like it so that me and my couch drift apart as I get a better relationship with the cinema. From me it's 5/5 Stars! 

Have you seen it?
Did you like it?
What movies are you crushing on at the moment?
What movies are you waiting for? (If you say Deathly Hallows I love you, If you say Breaking Dawn... Erm... We'll pretend I didn't hear that!)


Tuesday, August 17, 2010

The amazing combination of Ben Folds and Nick Hornby

(First of all... hi! remember me? I haven't written anything for aaaaaages, so I'm glad Roxy has been keeping you all entertained!)


So a while ago I heard some news that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end: Ben Folds (singer/songwriter/musician) and Nick Hornby (writer) were coming together to produce an album. Words by Nick, music by Ben. I'm generally a fan of Ben Folds' work, solo, with band Ben Folds Five, and side projects like the Bens (Ben Kweller, Ben Folds and Ben Lee) and his work with William Shatner. Basically I don't think this guy can put a food wrong.

So if you don't know Ben Folds used to be in a band called Ben Folds Five, who brought out some great songs most notably to me the haunting Brick about Folds' experience of having a child aborted when he was a teenager. I actually studied that song at school back in the day. In 2001 Folds went solo and has brought out a string of albums since then. He's worked with the artists already mentioned as well as others like Regina Spektor and Amanda Palmer.

Nick Hornby on the other hand is a writer with books like High Fidelity, About a Boy (Both made into films), How to Be Good and A Long Way Down. Hornby has been one of my favourite authors for quite a while. I can turn to his books when I don't want to put too much effort into a book but at the same time get a lot out of it. He also writes some interesting non fiction and so far there hasn't been a publication of his that I've read and haven't liked.

So for the last couple of days I've practically had "From Above", the current single from their soon to be released album Lonely Avenue, on repeat. It is a really beautiful song about us all having soulmates, yet generally we will never know them. Hornby's lyrics definitely bring something different to Folds' music, and it's something great. So give it a listen if you're at all interested!

Any songs that you've had on repeat recently?

Gritty Pretty's Benefit Beauty Giveaway

Roxy: 'Oh, there you are 'This and That'! I've been looking all over for you, you hawt piece of internet space.'

This and That: 'Whatever. I've been here all along, you're a liar. So sod off, biatch.'

Roxy: 'Wow. Ease up on the hostility. What's the problem? I tres care about you. Okay, so you've discovered I've been cheating on you with the Benefit Beauty pack I won off wonderful beauty blog, Gritty Pretty. But, don't you still like me? Even a little?'

This and That: 'Asking me what I think about you is like asking a dog what he thinks about lampposts...'

Roxy: 'Oh look, this is ridiculous. I've come here to confess my recent whereabouts. I need to tell you about Mr Benefit. He's got a beautiful package, smells amazing... Look, we've been seeing each other for a while now but I've kept it quiet because I didn't want to get all up in your grill, but now it's time. Mr Benefit and I are officially an item...'

And it's all thanks to Gritty Pretty. Goodness me, I love this beauty site. It's the go-to for what's hot in beauty and fashion. Win!

Anyway, it was a couple of weeks ago now that Eleanor, the editor
of GP, announced an amazing competition giving away a Benefit Beauty Pack worth a staggering 400 big ones. I really, really wanted to win the prize and well, I did! Excited much? Seeing as I reside in a beach side town about 45 minutes out of Adelaide CBD, I've never experienced Benefit beauty prodz before (not because I live by the beach, but because Benefit is not sold in Adelaide).

So when this package arrived at my door only a few days after my name was announced on Gritty Pretty's blog, facebook page and over twitter, I couldn't contain my excitement. It was like Christmas, only better.
(Yes, I was so excited that I tore into the package before taking this picture. Many apologies.)

And my loot...

Look at all of my goodies. I'm one lucky girl, right?

Right now (literally, right now - a few of these beauty products are living in my handbag) I'm currently playing and experimenting with all of the products, so I won't go into detail about them just yet. For now, please marvel at their beauty, refrain from making any Roxy voodoo dolls and look forward to my succession of Benefit Beauty Reviews. Watch this space!

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Life lessons and truths.

I stumbled upon the above photograph while browsing wonderful tumblr account, 'These things we love'. I really like the site, love this simple yet thought provoking photo even more.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Beauty: MOR Little Luxuries Lip Nectar

Thanks to the lovely ladies at PRIMPED HQ, I was one of 20 lucky winners to receive a MOR lip gloss valued at $18.95. The competitions requirements were simple: follow them on twitter (@PRIMPED) and RT I've joined the @PRIMPED Pack(man) and want to win a MOR lip gloss. Please. #PRIMPEDPack(Man). Too easy people.

After a week or so of stalking the postman, I am thrilled to announce that my MOR package arrived in the mail yesterday! Wee!

Isn't the packaging just gorgeous?
And the close up:

For a while I simply starred at the packaging, basking in its beauty; I couldn't bring myself to open it! But finally, I relented and oh boy, I was treated to one amazing lip gloss. A thick and creamy nectar slid evenly onto my lips and I was delighted to find that it was not at all sticky. It was a lovely light pink colour (not too flashy and perfect for daywear) and it stayed around for hours. I'm so pleased to report that this gloss is certainly tops and I'm terribly grateful for the win.

Do you love MOR lip glosses?
Do you use any MOR?
If so, what's your favourite product?


Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Fashion: Just quietly, the David Jones summer launch was amazing.

Well, I can't exactly confirm that from personal experience (I think my invite was lost in the mail?) but the pictures I've seen on various news sites and blogs have certainly left me gushing and reaching for my imaginary platinum credit cards. Anyway, let's ignore my ramblings and focus on the fashion we were previewed to thanks to our mates at DJ's....

1. Erica Heynatz looked delightful in her frock. The beige does incredible things for her skin and the cut is classy yet sexy. And would you look at those amazing pins? Yeow! You go girl! (Now please return the dress to my wardrobe Erica, thanks lovely).


2. This is my perfect 'work/evening appropriate' outfit. The pink and black is tres cute and the blazer brings class right into the outfit. Not to mention the shoes. Oh the shoes! I'm also loving the use of the top knot - it really finishes the outfit. Aside from being obviously on trend, the 'do allows you to really appreciate the models outfit (you know, we don't have flowing locks distracting us or whatever). I'm impressed and envious.

3. I'm now massively crushing on Abbe Lee. Enough said.

4. I'm pining after this bathing suit (so cute), those unbelievable heels (amazing for summer) and the bod to match (if you don't mind!)...

Do you agree with my picks from the David Jones Summer launch.
Isn't Abby Lee a stunner?
Are you lovin' beige as much as I am for spring/summer?

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Why not brighten your day with a cupcake?

Not just because it's Monday, but because every once and a while you need to treat yourself. I'm a firm believer that it's important to remind yourself that you are special and deserve a naughty indulgence, you've worked hard so why not? Right?

Maybe your indulgence is going to the movies, getting a ultimately relaxing full body massage, or a glass of expensive vino and cheese. Whatever it is, I bet it makes you feel like you're on cloud nine, or ten or whatever. Well, my most recent indulgence was a disgustingly delicious cupcake from none other than BTS Cafe - Better than Sex. Yep, this stunningly gorgeous cupcake shop (pictures of the store itself to come) is so sure of itself that it claims to smash sex out of the water terms of the 'inducing enjoyment' factor. Quite a claim, eh? Well, they do not disappoint, that's for sure.

A lovely friend of mine, Jenny, agreed that it was time for a yarn so of course I sent her a simple but effective message: 'J - Babes, BTS, lunch break now x'

Pictured below are the glorious cupcakes we purchased on arrival.

Meet Carrie:
Named after our beloved Carrie Bradshaw, the Carrie cupcake is a delicious mix of butter-cake with a lemon curd centre and meringue atop. It's sophistication with a bit of zing - just like our favourite NYC sex columnist.

Meet Elvis:
This banana choc chip cupcake with crispy chocolate bottom and creamy vanilla frosting atop leaves a taste in your mouth that makes you want to belt out a tune like our old mate Elvis. Jenny says "it's a party in your mouth like no other."

Are you impressed, feeling hungry or drooling? Did I ask if you are impressed? Well, if their cute celebrityesque names haven't won you over then I don't know what will.

One day I'll be awesome enough to have a cupcake especially designed and named after me. Hmm I wonder what it would taste like...

Do you know of any amazing cupcake stores?
Favourite flavour?
What's your indulgence?

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Are you stuck in a beauty rut?


Because I was. Big time. You see, just over a month ago I started an internship at Adelaide's Sunday mail and it was incredible. I learnt so much and was lucky enough to be published in both the Mail and the TV Guide (this is a big deal for a budding writer still studying at Uni). Anyhoo, I then moved on to the East Torrens Messenger (a local newspaper) for two glorious, crazily busy and stressful weeks before being asked back to the Sunday Mail...

Uh-oh. 'Why the hell would I be interested in your working life? Aren't we talking beauty?' I hear you ask. Well that's just it, doll. My busy life has sent me spiralling into Beauty
Rutt Town, postal address: 666 Chapped Nails Drive, Me Crazy Avenue, 9110. To cut to the chase (all terrible jokes aside), I was working full time at a paper then going to my beloved part time job (Gloria Jeans Coffee shop aka supplier of liquid gold) both days on the weekend. Hello zero days off in over a month. O.M.G. I was stuffed and so were my nails and hair. Realising that I was going to completely loose my sanity if I didn't find myself some 'me time' I decided that before starting back up at the Sunday Mail I needed a manicure. Badly. So I promptly booked myself into my local salon, Ashleigh's Day Spa, for a quick 30 minute clean up. I wasn't quite sure what to expect as I usually visit a family friend for all my primping needs - but alas, she wasn't available so I excused myself from feeling like a cheating tart.


How was my experience? Well, I was more than pleased ackshually. First, the beauty therapist was absolutely lovely. She could see that I was a total tired wreck and politely made small talk before quietly getting on with her job. Second, she refrained from cracking any narky jokes about my unkept nails that had coffee grind stuck underneath (gross.). Nope, she just began shaping, cleaning, soaking and rubbing until I almost fell into a blissful sleep. I opened my eyes to see my nails looking tidy and healthy (awesome) and proceeded to offer my own polish for the therapist to use which she gladly accepted (none of this, 'oh no you must use our polish' business). I was especially pleased with the painting and walked away after an hour (only paying for half an hour). Fabulous!



The only thing I would improve about my manicure is that I quite enjoy when the flaked skin around my nails (my hands get incredibly dry from coffee making) is removed. It leaves an absolutely clean finish.


Final verdict: I would visit Ashleigh's Day Spa again, for sure!


What have you done to escape a beauty rut?
Favourite salon?
Vegemite on toast (go Aussie go!) or peanut butter and jelly?

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

How to secure your dream job

As I'm about to embark on the final semester of my University degree I've been doing a whole lot of work expereince, internships (whatever I can get really) and trawling through careerone.com looking for possible jobs. Obviously it's a super competitative world out there and I need to get on it. So I've been thinking quite seriously about what the best way to apply for a job might be. Do I send out my CV to a bunch of papers, PR firms, media agencies and the like, do I contact them over social networking sites (become thier facebook 'friend'/twitter 'follower') or approach them face to face? You know, physically show them what I've got to offer.

I personally believe that this is a tough nut to crack (please excuse the cliché). Does anyone really know what the best option is when applying for a job? Well after some research I quickly found that someone actually does have a clear understanding of how to best approach a prospective employer. Who? 'The Chaser', of course! I've come across an amazing YouTube vid which demonstrates exactly how to secure your dream job. It's a winner, check it out!

Compliments of the loved 'Chasers':



Enjoy!

Monday, July 12, 2010

Toilet graffiti really grinds my gears

Big time. I absolutely hate it, despise it even. What's more upsetting is that the worst place for toilet graffiti is my lovely Adelaide University.

Here is what Adelaide Uni looks like from North Terrace:
Isn't it's exterior lovely? Well, I wish I could say as much for the interior. Most specifically, the interior of the toilets. Now brace yourself because this is absolutely nuts:


Now come on fellow university students. I don't know about you but I can't say that visiting public toilets is my favourite thing in the world. It's sorta nasty. I'm always trying to avoid touching anything, alternating between squatting over the toilet bowl and layering the toilet seat with an abundance of toilet paper. Then, once I've finished my business, I get the hell out of there. Quick smart. There is none of this sitting around day dreaming or writing vulgar profanities all over the walls. I think that it looks really untidy, dirty and quite frankly it's just rude.

So every once in a while I do notice that someone has written something incredibly witty and hilarious and I actually catch myself cracking a smile. Goodness me! But this is very rare. Mostly people are writing really annoying comments about who is a skank or who will provide you with a bit of 'fun'. And then you get those people who write angry comments about world poverty and others reply with quite racist comments. And you know what - I don't enjoy any of this! It's a waste of ink, pencil, whiteout or whatever!

Okay, I am sorry about this ranting. but in our very first post Tash confessed that sometimes we complain (but only if something is really annoying. It's good to vent sometimes, get things off your shoulders). That's human nature right? And just in case you didn't read our very first post (naughty you!) this is exactly what Tash wrote:

'Basically, this blog will be about things we enjoy, things we discover, things that we just want to complain about and things we come across in the media.'

Well, until now I haven't done any of this and honestly, I hope I'm not doing it again any time soon. But for now, if you do understand the weird and ugly world of toilet graffiti maybe you can enlighten me. I just don't get it and next time I visit the loo I'll be imagining throwing mental spears at my fellow toilet visiting peer's head as I wonder if it was them who wrote the C-bomb on the toilet cubicle's wall.

So tell me, do you now a toilet graffitist?
Have you ever written on a wall?
Do you know what compels people to do it?
What do you think about it?

P.S I want to clarify that I can appreciate real, arty farty graffiti that you sometimes see put deliberately on walls. You know, when the council provides a specific location for graffiti artists to 'spray' (is that the right term?). I can dig that. It looks good! Actually, there is a really cool design on the back of my favourite brekkie cafe, 'Agathas Food Store' , created by a bunch of teenagers. I do like that stuff, in fact, I'll get you a picture of it so that you can appreciate it too. Good one!

Getting all Natural History on You!

So today I had a plan of having a look at some of the shops in Adelaide off the beaten path of Rundle Mall. I was going to take some snaps and write up a blog. When I stepped off the tram and tried taking a picture I was met with the all to familiar sight of "REPLACE BATTERY PACK". Needless to say I changed my plans and decided instead to go for a little walk to the Museum of South Australia, accompanied by my good friends Belle and Sebasian, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and Nicholas Roy.

It was a bit of a strange experience walking through the museum by myself with the music in my ears blocking out the screams of the children all around me. The museum opened their new Biodiversity section in February of this year, I've been excited to go see it because the animals are always my favourite part of the museum. I wasn't really sure what to expect, but it all has a very Australian feel to it. I started off in the marine section with whales and fish and all sorts of strange creatures. There was multimedia screens all around the place and if you got up close enough it almost felt like you were actually swimming around the reef. It really ignited a desire to go diving again!

The whole section really flows, you move from under the sea, to beachside, to backyard, to outback. The thing I loved about the display is that it wasn't just about showing animals, you have to explore a bit to actually discover everything that the museum has done. One example was a display of nocturnal animals, I looked up and noticed that a hidden owl was looking down at me, when a little girl noticed me doing this she too looked up and was so excited by the sight. There were crawl spaces that only children could fit through so I don't know if these were just for entertainment or if there were even more things hidden here. One of my favourites was the "backyard" animals.

Doesn't it just look like a scene from Animals of Farthing Wood or something similar?

One thing I noticed was the strong environmental consciousness of all of the displays, this wasn't about showing you animals it was also about bringing attention to the fact that many of these were having their habitats destroyed, or that the animals themselves were the destroyers. There was a section for extinct Australian animals and I'll admit that I got a bit teary here. I did a bit of research into museums at university last year and whether they should be delivering simply information or whether curators should tell a story based on their own beliefs. I still don't know where I stand, but it was just so obvious to me today and it made me glad that they were trying to educate rather than just display. If you get a chance take the day off and grab some music and make your way through the museum in your own little world just like I did!

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Highway to Uh... Where?

So if you remember, a few weeks ago Roxy and I lay down this stupendous plan: Highway to Health was going to begin and we were going to be kicking some lazy ass! Unfortunately life got in the way. Roxy got the amazing opportunity to do an internship at the Sunday Mail where she was too busy attending fashion shoots and getting her name in print that she couldn't meet me for a gym sesh, and I was a bit too busy working 40 hour weeks at The Good Guys (My excuse is just as cool... right?). Well excuses, excuses we thought and we were rearing to start but now Roxy is completing another 2 week internship this time with the Messenger so unfortunately our traversing all over Adelaide to find our inner health gurus is once again on hold. 

You know what, I'd even got all ready! I did what any girl needs to do in order to start something new, I went shopping! So now I'm armed with a new drink bottle and trackpants and a mere 15 hours a week and I'm itching for a gym buddy, so instead of discovering some healthy gems without my buddy I've picked up a new friend to help me see through these two weeks... Introducing: Wii Fit Plus! 

Lame? Okay, so it's not quite the fanfare we wanted to begin with (we were planning on getting all hot and sweaty with some Bikram Yoga) but I figured why not review the games system that so many people are keen to try (I sell these things, believe me I know!). I'll be updating daily so, not wanting to overrun the This and That blog with posts, my daily posts will only be going up on the Highway to Health blog (Link in the side bar. Wow. saying that I feel like some sort of YouTube celebrity. Link in the doobly-doo. Nerdfighter jokes? No? Okay I lost you!) So if you're interested to hear if the whole Wii fit thing has any bang for its buck then check it out! 

I'll be reviewing it for 2 weeks starting from tomorrow, at the same time I'll be trying to be a  bit more careful about what I'm eating by using my trusty kikki.K meal planner, and I'll be braving the rain and trying to go for some more walks thanks to my new raincoat (Yes, even more shopping). This really has been a very hectic holidays, and it's really helped me realise how much life can get in the way of trying to look after yourself. After long weeks, overnight stays with my nieces and the biscuits and chips that coincide, and a bout of stomach flu and reflux I'm feeling the temptation of the Urban Remedy Winter Warmer Cleanse and perhaps a nice weekend away. Melbourne anyone? (hint: Roxy and I will be going to Melbourne in August! Weee!) So enough blabbering I've got to get some sleep for my Wii Fit sesh in the morning, and here are the lovely goodies I bought:





1. Camelbak Better Bottle $29.95, 2. Running Bare Tigerlily Soft Knit Track Pants $79.95, 3. Cath Kidston Navy Spot Raincoat $50, 4. NintendoWii Fit Plus $129, 5. kikki.K Meal Planner $9.95. 

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Beauty Review: Le Tan Fast Tan, just coz it's winter...

So usually winter and I are not best pals. We don't hang out, go to the beach together and share our intimate girly secrets. However, I do have to thank winter for my discovery of Le Tan Fast Tan foaming mousse.

Now, just a bit of background on my relationship with Mr. Fake Tan before I go on. I am a self confessed fake tanning addict and that's because I'm not one of those girls who look lovely all white glow-in-the-dark-style (like Amanda Seyfried for example... See, look at her, the sexy minx).
On the other hand, when I am cold, my pale skin goes a lovely shade of blotchy purple and pink. Hot, right? And in summer I don't like to try my luck actually developing a real tan (First, it will never happen and second, my Gramps died of skin cancer so I'd rather fake it than bake it). So, I do fake tan 365 day's a year. Of course, I don't put too much on in winter, just enough to cover my purple edge.

My usual tan of choice is the St Tropez foaming mousse. It's a little tube of liquid gold and for $70 for 750mL you would really hope it to be. It never streaks, is a lovely natural colour (I have had compliments about how nice my real tan is. Ha! Suckers...) and I love that it's a mousse because you can instantly see where you are applying and you can do it gradually. Gradually is the key word here. You should always apply one layer first, then assess the situation the next day. Don't go overboard because no matter how fabulous the product is, you will probably come out looking like an extra from Willy Wonkers classic movie - an oompa loompa. This is also why I prefer gradual tanners over getting spray tans. Yes, sometimes they can look great but other times, not so much (unless orange is your thing, then you know, go for it!)

Anyway, seeing as it is winter I'm not using much tan and on top of that I'm not really cashed up (thanks to Uni - another great friend of mine). So, I decided I better opt for a cheaper version. I chose Le Tan Fast Tan and haven't looked back.


Boy, it's a beauty! This little puppy is quite inexpensive (around $12 a bottle!) and it does a wonderful job! The colour is nice and natural, I only need one light coat to get a desirable coverage and colour, it stays put for a good week (as long as I moisturise every day*), doesn't come off on my clothes, comes off my skin relatively evenly and did I mention that it's cheap?!

I'm so pleased with Le Tan that I'm sure that I'll use it come summer time and save my good old St Tropez for special occasions. Good one!

So, do you use fake tan?
What's your product of choice?
Or are you one of those lucky buggers who looks amazing pale?

*Just a fun little tip: if you like to make the most out of your tan, put one layer of full strength foaming mousse (like Le Tan) on the first night (I say night so that you don't need to wait around for 10 mins to let it dry before dressing) and then every second day, exchange your usual body moisturiser for a moisturiser with added gradual tanner - my suggestion is Dove's Summer Glow (but in all honesty I haven't come across a gradual tanning moisturiser that hasn't done the trick).

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

K Stew goes red and I am in awe...

Complete awe, actually. I'm excited to report that it seems Kristen has decided to ditch the 'if you take a photo of me I might transform into the mighty Hulk and rip your face off' look and, to top it off, she is rocking that red carped looking relaxed, comfortable, and, um, happy. The crowd goes wild, people!

And the transformation doesn't stop there. Yesterday morning I was quietly browsing my favourite sites on the train when all of a sudden I came across this shocking picture (and when I say shocking I mean mouth-open-in-a-really-unflattering-way shocking)...Wow. Kristen Stewart has died her hair a marvellous rusty-red hue and looks absolutely stunning.

This is her at the New York Premiere of Eclipse:




(This picture is courtesy of PRIMPED website)

I adore this colour on her so much; it completely complements her fair skin (which I might add looks absolutely flawless in this pic) and helps draw attention to her green eyes.
While I have always thought this girl was pretty, I now think she is a super sexy minx as this red instantaneously gives her an edge of attitude and makes her look cheeky. It's lovely.
Teamed up with the so on trend messy braid (which I am trying my damndest to master and once I do, I will be posting a pic and method), and the pinkish eye shadow (drawing even more attention to her amazing eyees - unbelievable right?), she is looking absolutely fabulous and making me feel proud to secretly be a twi-hard at heart.
She's fiery hot and it makes her eyes pop!
What do you think of the colour?
Love it?
Hate it?
Have any other celebs impressed you with thier awesome beauty endeavours?

Monday, June 28, 2010

Obsessions - Winning Things

So I have a bit of an obsession... with winning things. I'm not claiming to be this lucky person who's winning millions left right and centre (although apparently I have won millions in plenty of overseas lotteries and the cash is just waiting for me to claim it with my bank details). Even if I'm not always winning things I sure give it a go.

My first taste of competition victory came at a ripe young age when I won a No Doubt CD out of a TV Hits magazine. I didn't even get to see the CD for months as I was in Vietnam and it was shipped straight to Roxy's house, but it started off a thirst in me. Over the years I've won a few things including a phone, some dvds, some more CDs, vouchers I even won a Sony Blu-Ray player thanks to my ace guitar hero skills at a Sony product night. It isn't really even the prize that gets me excited, but it's knowing that out of everyone else I actually managed to win. It could have been my eloquent skills with 25 words or less or that fabulous photo I snapped that covers just what the competition is about, whatever the winning entry is it's just nice to know that you did something that someone else considers fab!

My latest quest you ask? The Sony Make.Believe Experience Competition. I got through to the second round through some fantastically worded entry and some lovely votes from my mum and all her friends and now I just have to try and up the views on this video I made that will hopefully impress the judges. I find myself becoming a whole new person when I'm involved in a competition, I'm not the happy loving person I am usually but instead I'm a bitter competitive person who tries to clutch at any available shred of victory she can!

Do you ever enter any comps? And have you ever got lucky!
What is the best thing you've won?
Do you ever sit in front of your computer for hours on Win-Free-Stuff writing 25 words or less over... and over... and over again?

Adios Amigos!

Beauty Review: I have fallen victim to the allure of dry shampoo. Now I'm involved in a raging love affair..

Sorry Rowan (my boyfriend) but it's true. I have been quietly getting it on with Mr. Batiste and honestly, it's been amazing.

What has spurred on this act of ultimate betrayal I hear you ask? Well, lately everyone in the beauty world keeps banging on about how wonderful dry shampoo is, so I decided I better give it a spray (ha!) and I've quickly come to realise why everyone is tres obsessed:

  • First, my hair is quite fine (although I've got a bit of it) and at the moment it is a light/caramelly blonde. Its fineness teamed up with its light colour means that on the second day after a wash my hair is rocking the grease. Not Pretty. But if I use dry shampoo I can draw out the next wash to three days. It's wonderful and I can see a change in my hair - it's more shiny and soft (basically, more healthy).
  • I've also found that dry shampoo is amazing for giving my hair extra 'oomph'. I simply lift up sections down the top of my hair, spray and viola! I have hair that is bodyluscious (although I do have to make sure to not apply too much down my 'part' because if I do, I'm in danger of looking like I've got a serious case of dandruff. Hot.)
  • Okay, so it's winter here in the southern hemisphere (boo!) and I don't know about you but I am really struggling to get out of my warm, comfy bed in the mornings. My cold, dark and evil bathroom is not somewhere I enjoy visiting at 6am in the morning. So, even if I wanted to wash my hair every two days, it's simply not an option because I don't have time. Mr Batiste, is helping me spend an extra 20 minutes in bed in the mornings and for that, I will love him for eternity.
So there you have it. I am in love with dry shampoo. And if you are not, I seriously recommend that you go down to your local DJ's, Myers or Priceline and purchase (If you're not a happy couple yet I'm assuming that's because you haven't tried it). And if you're a sexy brunette...Never fear! There is dry shampoo designed especially you. All dark and stuff. Hooray!

Do you like dry shampoo?
How often do you wash your hair a week?

P.S I need to sincerely apologise to this blog. Oh boy, I have been neglecting it big time lately. But I do have an excuse, I've been busy undertaking an internship at the Sunday Mail and spending way too much time with Mr Batiste, obviously.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Fashion: Kookai 50% Off Sale, Rad-elaide Chicks Go Wild



And I'm not kidding, Kookai's Adelaide store was going 'off-tap' on Wednesday (the sale start date). Luckily for me (or so I thought), I had prior warning of this sale (via a twitter update) so I got myself in town nice and early, handed up my last uni assignment for the semester (huzzah!) and had my money bits all counted and ready to go.

When I arrived at Kookai, at a rather modest hour (11:30ish), I realised I was not quite early enough. The place was packed with excited ladies of all ages; hoards of teens, young women and the more 'mature', but oh so elegant ladies, were already clawing through the bundles of discounted clothes and trawling through the sale racks. It was EPIC (sorry, I don't often drop the E-bomb, but this occasion really called for it).

Honestly, I was a little overwhelmed, but like the Kookai loving trooper I am, I pushed through, selected a few items of clothing and headed for the devilishly long snake that was the line for the change room. I thought I was in for a long wait, but truth be told, I was in and out within 10 minutes. To my absolute delight, everyone was exceptionally considerate of their fellow fashionistas and spent as little time as necessary trying on their selected clothes. It was a lovely feeling. The serious and competitive faces we all bestowed when entering the massively awesome sale were merely a facade, we really did look out for each other (unless there was only one item left and a crowd of angry, fashion hungry chicks all wanted it. Scary stuff.).

Anyway, I limited myself to one piece of clothing because, as of late, I've been doing my best to save my pennies. I've also made the rule that I can only purchase, if, and only if, that purchase is job savvy. That is, I'm only buying clothes that I can wear to work (I'm graduating at the end of the year so it is time to get myself ready for the real world). What did I buy then? A lovely, coloured printed dress, with a black base colour reduced from $130 to $60. Awesome! This little number is fabulous, in moi opinion. I can easily make it winter wearable (with the addition of back stockings, a black blazer and heels (of course!) but it is totally summer-esque as well. Yippeee!

Another day, another find....So, the next day I had to pop into town with my darling mother and noticed three things. First, yup, Kookai was still going absolutely nuts. Second, the new Wollies had just opened (please don't underestimate how exciting this is for all the uni students/townies)...


And to top it all off, I found a pair of RMK platforms in DJ's that I had thought were sold out, but no, they were in fact reduced from $140 big-ones, to $83. Holymotherofgawd...I was so happy that I considered breaking out in song right then and there. Here are the sexy puppies:


Do you like?
Are you crazily happy for me?
Do you have any sale stories (found a total bargain, got into a brawl, pulled some chicks hair out)?

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Introducing This and That's Highway to Health




TASH: Don't you all just love Glee? If not... Really? Watch more and you will! That aside, getting physical is something that's been on our minds a lot over at This and That. Not just getting physical, but getting healthy. So as a tribute to this Glee and Olivia Newton-John mash up (not really) we've created what we like to call our Highway to Health. Tacky puns you ask? Why yes of course! Basically we're going to be spending out time eating better, exercising more and trying all that we can to keep ourselves glowing inside and out!

ROXY: So, what does the 'Highway to Health' Challenge (H2H Challenge) entail exactly? In short, Urban Remedy has inspired us to get healthier than we've ever been before. In an effort to do so, we are going to explore the healthy side of Adelaide. We want to find out where the best yoga studios are, which gym classes are awesome and why, if personal trainers are better to help you reach your peak fitness, where the yummiest and healthiest food is at and what beauty therapists can do to help us feel great. And of course, we'll be blogging about these experiences along the way - reviews about all the places we have visited, updates on all things Urban Remedy as well as some extra goodies (don't want to spoil the surprise but I'm talking video demonstrations...but shhhh, don't tell anyone!) will be uploaded every few days.

TASH: So why do this you ask? Well it sort of all leads back to some blogs we did a while back reviewing the Urban Remedy Juice Cleanses, they got us thinking a lot about what we do to keep ourselves healthy and what it is we're putting in our bodies. Sometimes it's not the best stuff (i.e. the other night I decided it would be a good idea to try ice cream mixed with peanut butter! good golly!) but in our defense, it's been a busy time for us lately, so we've slipped a little. We've both been glued to our computer screens (turning square eyed and what not) writing out our final university assignments for the semester. Fun? Think again. But now that we are finished up, we are determined to get back to (and even surpass) the sparkling balls of health that we were when we finished our Urban Remedy Juice Cleanses a few months ago.

ROXY: What does this mean for you? Well, what doesn't it mean for you would be the better question, methinks! Watch this space and you'll be given hot tips on where's best to eat and exercise. But wait, there's more. We can offer you 15% off Urban Remedy Juice Cleanses. 'WHHHHHAT?' I hear you ask. 'Pipe down please and let me finish,' I reply. The lovely Emma from Urban Remedy contacted us about helping her increase Urban Remedy's exposure around RAD-elaide and we were totes excited to help her out. So, as part of our H2H Challenge, we will be handing out 15% of brochures to all the venues we visit. Now, if you happen to desperately want a voucher (I would, if I were you), but you're not going to be visiting any of the venues that we've blogged about, just forward, erm, 28,485 schmackers to my account and we can sort something out..ha! I'm kidding, silly. Just comment us on our blog and we'll get you sorted.

So get involved! Let us know where we should go and what we should do! Challenge us! The more support we get the more we're going to be able to do and you never know it could mean more perks for you! ;)

Thoughts - Sex and the City 2 (In My Opinion)

(SATC the TV show)

So the other night I went and saw SATC 2 with my sisters (my two real sisters and my housemate Kirby who's pretty much been adopted by my family). I was filled with apprehension. Reviews were not kind I tell you! I thought I was about to get punched in the face with a whole load of racist jokes, musical sing-a-longs and so many bad lines: the worst bit was I knew my girls were better than that!

Truthfully I can't say I thought the movie was as bad as half of these reviews were making it out to be. It may have seemed a little patronising at times but it wasn't racist. It went for a little too long (I felt like I was in the cinema for 3 hours), lines weren't great and the laughs were cheap... BUT I think my main problem with the film was that it seemed that it was a film that was casting aside long time lovers of the television show just to appeal to new viewers who believed that the girls were only about high end fashion and sex!

That was my problem with the film. It didn't make me cry. I cried in Osmosis Jones for christ sake! Films make me cry! During the first SATC film I was in tears as soon as the opening credits began and that theme music started. That would have been hard in this film as we were only treated to about 3 seconds of the SATC music at the beginning, and instead of rolling credits with it... They played Rickie Lee! The characters all seemed like empty shells of themselves, becoming characatures of themselves so that newcommers could pick who they were. 

It also just made me angry the way that the girls/the film just fawned over popular culture. Miley Cyrus doesn't need to be in a Sex and the City film and neither does a tacky and tired dance number to All the Single Ladies (of which the only version I can appreciate is this). I admit it's a little hypocritical commenting on both of these inclusions when I'm endorsing a combination of both Disney star and Beyoncé... but while I may not be able to get over my love of the Jonas Brothers THE GIRLS ARE BETTER THAN THAT!

I started watching this show when I was 10 years old, and for 10 years it's been in important part of my life. I'd shut my eyes during the sex scenes and cringe whenever my parents would walk into the room but at the same time the movie taught me a lot about accepting myself and my body and my  and being able to feel comfortable and powerful, not despite being a woman, but because I was a woman. Sure they had amazing clothes and they lived in an amazing city and they had amazing sex, but that wasn't what made them who they were or what made them stick together. I think the film tried to emulate the bond that the girls had and tried to hone in on some of the things they've helped women accept, but I feel it fell very short of the mark. I'd probably watch it again and I'll probably buy in on DVD, but I know that if I need some advice about life or dating or if I need some guaranteed tears the film will stay on the shelf and I'll be pulling down that lovely box-set, season 1 through 6. 

Saturday, June 12, 2010

5 Reasons Why I'll Be Rocking The Bold Lip Tonight

At my boyfriend's gig, that is. I'm thinking I'll do a nice, bright coral. Like this Lancome lip gloss (no. 66)...


My second pick is Revlon’s high-pigment coral and magenta (from their new colourburst range). It's a winner (and comes in lovely, Chanel inspired packaging).

Here are the reasons:

1. I'll be at a bar where my man will be wooing a crowd with his superstar-esque guitar playing. He'll be doing this while smiling politely at the random single lady who decides to step up as one of Jesus disciples and wipe the sweat of his brow (thanks hunni, that's not what I'm here for. Now move along, enjoy your night and I wish you a years worth of bad hair days) . So obviously, I need to look good. Or at least feel good, and one way to feel done up, fresh faced and lovely is a bright lip, don't you agree?

2. Yeah it's winter here in the Southern Hemisphere, and although we usually associate the colder months with darker colours, like, erm, BLACK (and deep purples, greys etc.), I think it's quite nice to throw in a bold, bright lip here and there. Mix it up a bit, brighten your day/afternoon (no pun intended!) with a splash of colour.

3. Zoe Foster, a confessed lover of the bold lip (and the big boss of beauty website PRIMPED), explained that you can wear the bold lip two ways: Hollywood glamour puss/vintage or totally modern. The vintage look (what I'll be doing tonight) involves black mascara and little liquid eyeliner. The modern look, a plain face with brown mascara. Too easy! What a winner, ta Zoe.

4. I'm sick of doing the 'baby doll' pink lips or the nude with the brown smoky eye. Yes, I realize that it always looks good, works with most outfits and is generally a no brainer. But come on, you don't make friends by always rocking the same look or with salad (said Homer Simpson). I think that's a lie though. I like salad...

5. A bold lip is every mans drug - they'll get hooked on you. If you're after a guy (or you're like me and want to keep the attention of your own boy) whack it on and they will come running. Literally. With flowers, magical calorie free chocolates and the latest 'Robert Robert' platforms. Okay, I'm lying. But the bold lip will make you look hot. I promise.

Huzzah! Five good reasons why I'll be rocking the bold lip tonight.

Are you a lipstick girl or a gloss girl?
What are your favourite colours? Brands?

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Eateries: Agathas Food Store do BIG Brekkies....

My mouth is watering, people. Just reminiscing about my Sunday breakfast at Agatha's Food Store is enough to kick start the cravings. What an incredible taste bud delight it was! I cannot stop thinking about it (and wishing myself back there)...

Agatha's is a tiny (in size, big in bite) restaurant situated down the coast of Port Noarlunga. They are open 7 days for breakfast and lunch. Unfortunately, they don't stay open for dinner (which is a massive bummer), but I can cut them some slack becuase it is a family run business, so they need some downtime from the flood of hungry foodies constantly demanding their top quality service. And wozers, do they bring it? Yes they do (I should know, I'm a regular)!

I could tell you about all of their yummy dishes (like their home-made dips and pita bread, or their smoothies (todiefor), but today I'm going to focus on just one...Their 'Greek Yoghurt Special'. And it's a good one too! What you are looking at is an enormous glass full of all natural Greek Yoghurt, mango, a selection of fresh berries, walnuts, honey and toasted muesli. Are you drooling yet?

Honestly, this is the best breakfast I've eaten anywhere and you know what, it's pretty healthy too (it may be a little bigger than one needs but hey, live a little! Right?). For only $7.90, it is the best thing since I first learned how to make cupcakes and frosting.

The end result:

A job well done, me thinks!

Are you drooling right now?
If not, why not?!
I'd love to hear about your favourite eateries!
Did you know that if you try squeezing the two ends of an egg as hard as you can, you won't break it? Go on...Try it!

Monday, June 7, 2010

Review : L'Oreal Paris Youth Code Collection

I was one of 20 selected Primpettes to act as a guest reviewer for beauty website PRIMPED. Excited much? Oh yes, I was. What did we test? L'Oreal Paris' new skin care Youth Code Collection which included a face cream, eye cream and anti-wrinkle concentrate....

Just quietly, I love receiving packages in the mail. It’s so much fun, doncha think? So, obviously, receiving THIS beautified package sent directly from Jesus himself (no, I’m kidding, it was Primped, silly!) was a treat. And it wasn’t just my ‘package receiving induced excitement’ that got me all giddy inside, it was the added fact that I’d been scraping the bottom of my Clinique eye cream for too long. L'Oreal couldn't have come to the rescue any time sooner.
First up, let’s talk about eye creams, baby (cos it was my favourite). The L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Eye Care is a winner. While I cannot comment on its wrinkle reducing effectiveness (I’m only 20, gosh!), I can tell you that after just one application your skin becomes visibly smoother and feeling great (although, I understand that this collection is about preventative measures against wrinkes, so it is designed for a younger audience) . The eye cream acts as a wonderful primer for your eye makeup (it helped to create a smoother application of concealer and made it feel so great that it agreed to stick around all day long, good one!). PLUS, it’s pink colour (a result of it being slightly tinted to illuminate your eye contour area and restore radiance to the skin) is just lovely. Anything that helps brighten the area under my eyes is tops, and L’Oreal Paris, you did it! For just $35.95...It’s love!
The L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Day Care proved to be an excellent up-grade from my lighter, more summery suited moisturiser. Its thickness helped to give my skin the added hydration that it has so desperately needed lately (However, I did only use it sparingly, especially around my t-zone, otherwise, I woke up with some gnarly, uninvited pimples). I liked how it had a hint of citrus scent - it kept me feeling fresh, but not like I was plastering a tonne of perfume on my face. My skin felt silky smooth after application and I have noticed an enhanced evenness in my skin tone (bonus!).
The L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate contains all these mattifying particles that makes your skin oh so soft to the touch. It has a relatively thick texture, however, it is fast absorbing. GASP! The concentration contains beeswax and shea butter, this is why it practically dissolves into the skin instantaneously. This is something that I loved about this prodz. But wait! If you decided to rush out and buy it, make sure that when you apply, you do rub it in quickly, otherwise, it wont spread evenly cos your face is greedy and will want to eat it all up and not share with your neck. Naughty face.

I’m loving that the creams are packaged in a classy and more importantly, THICK glass jar (because I’m tops at dropping things). Phew.

Overall, I’m one happy Primper and will defs be purchasing the eye cream again.The Day Care?I’d be happier if it included some form of sun protection, but for now, my skin is loving it. The anti-wrinkle concentrate is good, but I'm not sure if I will buy it again. I'll get back to you on that one.

Will you try L'Oreal's new Youth Code Collection?
What's you skin care regime?
Did you know that an eyelash lives about 150-200 days before it falls off? Holymotherofgawd! That's ages.

Saturday, June 5, 2010

The 'Hero Of The Day' award goes to....

This guy:



What a winner! If I was a man, gosh, I would aspire to becoming as awesome as this guy. He's got the moves and I want to steal them. STAT.

An awesome Lynx advertisment making my study time a little more exciting (I am currently writing an assignment about commercials for the beauty and fashion industry. This is my headlining ad. No, I am not kidding).

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Awesome Interviewes - Susannah Bailey

I've blogged before about the radio show I co-produce at Radio Adelaide (called 'Y'). Well, now that's all wrapped up for the season. Finito, done-and-dusted (Boo!). Before you get all emotional too (ya know, jump off your comfy couch and run for the tissue box), KILL THE MOTOR DUDE. I've got good news. Working on this program provided me with the opportunity to interview some fabulous people (including Yasemin, the Editor of my fav beauty website PRIMPED - awesome!). However, the gal I'd like to bang on about today is none other than the inspirational Susannah Baily; a student at Colour Cosmetica Academy in RADelaide. This pink little lady (no kidding, she rocks fluro pink hair but boy, it looks freakin' cool on her) is incredible. She is currently undertaking Colour Cosmetica's 'Diploma of La Moda' (meaning: diploma of the fashion) which she tells me is a unique course that is the equivalent of four or five beauty and fashion courses put into one. Good one!

So people, this is some of what I found out about the one and only, Susannah Bailey...

Roxy: Firstly Susannah, Wow. I've seen some of your work and you are one talented chick. Can you tell me a little bit about some of the things you have done to try show off your talent?


Susannah: I've done so much. I've worked on fashion parades, photo shoots, films and plays. I've also being involved in running events for the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Also, Colour Cosmetica was heavily involved in running the Arcade Lane Venue at Fringe, which actually ended up winning best venue, so that was really exciting. Pretty much, this course means that the sky is the limit. You know, you can do anything you want to.

Roxy: Sounds like you've already had some incredible experiences - I'd love to zoom into 2020 right now and see what your future has in store for you. Unfortunately, I don't have my time machine handy...What a bugger! So instead, I guess I'll have to ask, where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years time?

Susannah: I see myself everywhere! Also, Tokyo. I'm a bit obsessed with Japan. I want to have my own fashion label - I'm actually in the process of staring that up now. I also want do do freelance work - in particular, hair, makeup and styling for other companies. I want to do visual merchandising, photo shoots, films and writing for magazines too. However, my primary focus is my own clothing label - I'd like a couple of them actually. This is why I came to Colour Cosmetica, because I have so many goals and this course is teaching me enough to do pretty much anything that I want to do. When I graduate I'll be prepared for anything and everything!

Roxy: Goodnessgraciousme, how exciting! Keeping in mind all of your previous experiences, can you give any other aspiring fasionistas (who are trying to get exposure) any advice?


Susannah: Just be positive, be yourself, be creative but also understand it is a lot of work. I don't have much of a life at the moment, it's a huge commitment [the Diploma of La Moda] but it is so rewarding, the experiences I have had make all the hard work definitely worth it.

Roxy: That's great advice Susannah, cheers. So one last thing before we finish up, please tell me about one of your favourite pieces of work?

Susannah: One of my favourites (I have so many) is called 'Clockwork Harlequin'. It is based on a very similar time as Alice [in wonderland], the real 'Victorian Morning Clothes' but also, the Commedia Dell'Ate (Italian comedy and theater) Harlequins. So, I had a black shirt that had all these amazing layers and layers of extravagance built up and the head piece I made out of broken clocks, glass, wires and peals. So much fun to make.

Roxy: It is an incredible piece of art! Thanks so much for your time Susannah and good luck with everything in the future - although I'm sure you wont really need it!

Said 'Clockwork Harlequin'....

Awesome handiwork, right?
Are you impressed?
Do you know of any talented beauty/fashionstas?
Has Susannah inspired you to work hard and achieve your goals?


Monday, May 31, 2010

Thoughts - Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend

So I've been thinking about diamonds and engagement rings. Before you get all excited and start congratulating me, STOP. I'm not engaged, gosh I'm not even in a relationship but lets just say that from a tender young age I've loved weddings. So naturally I've looked into engagement rings, and this baby here is one that I designed earlier today on the Adiamor website, it's a pair cut diamond on a white gold setting with four prong set diamonds and 28 pave set diamonds. But the thing that's really been making me think is... I don't actually want a diamond!

Building engagement rings is almost as fun as hopping on the Apple website and building yourself a Mac Pro, I managed to make one ring with a $250,000 diamond and even the cheaper ones are still about $4000. For me, it seems excessive. Don't get me wrong, I'm not having a go at the ladies out there that want a genuine rock on their finger but its just not for me. There are a few reasons for this. 

Firstly it is because of the bad side of diamonds. The people who die to bring mine them and the military powers that they fund. Now this isn't all diamonds but if something has the potential to contribute to this, and it's something that I don't really want, then I'm quite happy to say no thanks!

Secondly, I struggle to see the value in a diamond. I don't really wear jewelry and as long as something looks nice I'm not really worried what it's value is. This is why I want a cubic zirconia, if there is a decent reason to want a diamond it's going to be lost on me and therefor I see it as a bit of a waste of money. I don't have a problem with people who like diamonds, but I think I'd be happier if a bit of that ring money was saved and went towards something that was more me. 

So what is your opinion? Are you a diamond girl?
Would you settle for anything less?
Have you secretly picked out your ring?

Sex and The City's star, SJP, rocks a massive hair piece. Does the crowd go wild?

Sex and the City is everywhere right now. Yep, these ladies are all we can talk about. Firstly, because Sex and The City 2 is finally hitting our shores (yippee!), but also because all four of the starlets are shining beacons of hope, showing us that we too can look amazingly stunning when we reach our 40's/50's. Awesome gals, I say.

Anyway, this morning I was reading up on the SATC 2 London Premiere on my fav online beauty website PRIMPED. What was the hot topic? Not the fabulous makeup and hair dos' but the crazily huge, 'halloween-esque' hair piece sitting quietly (ha!) on SJP's head! Now at first I was shocked, you know, mouth hanging open in a really unflattering way, shocked. But after a while of staring, I've come to terms with it. It's SJP's thing, she rocks the weird and wonderful and does it, well, awesomely. She is an incredible style icon and just quietly, the amazing black frock with split-design tube and matching shoes is to.die.for. Probably the best dress I've seen all year. Big call I know but I'm making and will stand by it. Overall, SJP looks gorgeous, me thinks.

Here is the pic. Crazy huh?

Don't the other ladies, Cynthia, Kristin and Kim look beautiful? I'm also lovin' Kim's gown, Cynthia's blonde highlights (apparently blonde is her natural colour) and Kristen is forever stunning. Two words. Bomb. Shells.

How about you just marvel at it for a while?
What do you think?
Hate it or lurve it?