UK Beauty & Lifestyle Blog

favourite blogs & vlogs of // 2014

an image of the best beauty blogs of 2014
I can't believe how soon Christmas Day came and left us. I hope you all had a lovely time with your families and loved ones. I'm now feeling the effect of eating such bad foods and dying to get back into routine again. Before we say goodbye to 2014 I wanted to share with you some of my absolute favourite reads. They're all such wonderful, hardworking ladies who need to be added to your subscriptions. Lucy xx

Autumn Leaves - Beauty, Blogging and Lifestyle blog
I'm a long time follower of Rebecca's impressive beauty blog. She's always worked hard on her content but this year has been incredible and she deserves every success and more in 2015. I can't wait to see what's in store for Autumn Leaves. Rebecca also started doing youtube videos which I'm hoping to see more of in 2015.

Beauty Full Homes - Home Interior blog
If you're looking for home inspiration, blogging inspiration and DIY's Abby's rebranded blog Beauty Full Homes is one to add to your reading list. I honestly don't know how Abby does it all, running an incredible blog & a shop owner.

Tiny Paint Pot - Lifestyle blog
Everything about Tiny Paint Pot is beautiful and will always remain as my favourite lifestyle blog. Sam covers every aspect from daily life snippets, delicious recipes, beauty reviews and travel. Though it's her illustration blog posts that really make Tiny Paint Pot unique and stand out from the thousands of bloggers out there.

xomisse - Blogging Tips, Blogger & Wordpress Tutorials blog
Ellie has been a lifesaver at times this year. If you're anything like myself and like to have a fiddle around with your HTML & GA tortures your brain....DON'T until you've flicked through xomisse. Alongside her fabulous blog Ellie runs a web design service for creatives & bloggers as well as her own personal blog. If there's one resolution to make this year, make sure you bookmark xomisse.

Raspberrykiss - Beauty & lifestyle blog 
I really admire bloggers who can post quality content daily, with Shannon over at Raspberrykiss being a prime example of this. I don't miss a single post and always look forward to reading the days blog post. My bank account however hates the fact my to buy list is continually growing. If you're looking for a blog with honest reviews, clear photography & the perfect mix of topics I'd highly recommend Raspberrykiss.

Not Your Average - Beauty, Fashion & Mummy blog
Not Your Average features various topics, with everything beauty & fashion to day to day mummy life posts. I really don't know how she does it all, studying, working and looking after the adorable Millie. I hope 2015 brings plenty more success for NYA & Emma because she truly deserves it.

We Were Raised By Wolves - Beauty blog
Evelyn runs We Were Raised By Wolves, a beauty blog which features detailed product reviews to fit all categories and budgets. Her photography is beautiful, sharp and consistent. The amount of brands and products I've been introduced to is endless, with a lot being all natural, green or organic. If you're looking for a beauty blog with knowledgeable reviews Evelyn needs to be on your timelines. 

She Might Be Loved - plus size fashion and beauty blog
She Might Be Loved is an award winning plus size fashion and beauty blog, with the occasional lifestyle, food and travel post mixed in. This year has been incredible for Georgina. All the hard work and dedication she's put into her blog & youtube has allowed her some incredible opportunities and the ability to now call it her job. I've particularly enjoyed her recent Halloween Tutorials, this girl has some serious skill!

Flutter Sparkle - Beauty blog
Gemma's blog was one of the first I followed way back when I started LW & I'm so glad she's still blogging. Flutter Sparkle is predominately beauty based with the occasional life snippets & foodie posts slipped in. She works so hard on producing honest and well thought out reviews & photography. 

Brogan Tate XO - Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle blog & youtuber
This year I discovered Brogans youtube and blog & became well and truly hooked. She seems so down to earth and bubbly, if there's a video sat in my subscription I just have to watch it.

Others to add to your subscriptions; Jess at Jesska Denise, Tash at It's Simply Beauty, Mia & Laura at CSI Beauty blog, Steph at Stephanie Dreams, Katy at Little Winter, Brittany at Beauty with Brittany, June at Nostalgiecat, Lucy at Dinosaur Dances, Grace at Glitter & Carousels & Charlotte at Lil Miss Chickas.

What I got for Christmas // 2014


an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
an image of What I got for Christmas 2014
I hope you all had an amazing Christmas period with your family and friends. This year I was totally spoilt and thought I'd share again with you all, and say thank you to those who gifted all the lovely items featured. Christmas is my favourite time of the year. Looking back at this makes me sad to think this was actually the last Christmas with my Grandma (hi from 2016 btw). Anyway back to the post, I received lots of chocolate, beauty items and clothing. Not to mention westie themed items. I woke up to a toy westie peeping from my stocking - you can totally have stockings still at 20.
Love you lots, Lucy x

Boxing Day // with LW

an image of boxing day beauty blogs
Happy Boxing day guys? Christmas Day is now over in the UK and for the first time in years (literally...I've shopped the boxing day sales since I was single digits) I'm not getting out of bed at the crack of dawn to hit the sales. My Dad had to work Christmas Day night, luckily he picked Christmas Eve out of the hat and we managed to spend the majority of Christmas together as a family. It could have been worse, he could have been working all day and who does much after 7pm anyway? 

Did you guys have a wonderful day yesterday? What do you guys do on Boxing Day? I tend to stay in along with my brother & Harry while the parents have a few hours with their friends in the local pub. We then have a buffet in the evening with every snazzy party food we could find and look over our beautiful gifts. Lucy xx

Lush Christmas Dupes // 2014

Christmas Lush dupe posts are one of my favourites to write. As soon as this years collection launched I had an incredible amount of traffic wanting dupes so soon. I've loved the 2014 collection, it's definitely been one of my absolute favourite years for Lush - even the Halloween range had me hooked. Lush Boxing Day sales - in the UK Lush usually have festive products and products made by a set date half price, both online and instore. Other years we have had buy one, get one free as well as lucky dips come January - alas Lush is more popular these days & I'm yet to see this again. However if you can't make it to a Lush store or you're sleeping off your Christmas hangover I always find a dupe for each festive Lush creation and they're all waiting for you below. Be sure to let me know if you received any Lush products and gifts this year? I'd love to hear your favourites. Lucy xx

Bath Bombs, Bubble Bars & Bath Melts
Snow Angel bath melt | Floating Island bath melt, Ceridwens Cauldron bath melt,
The Melting Snowman bath melt | Floating Island bath melt
Star Light, Star Bright bath melt | You've Been Mangoed bath melt
Holly Go Lightly bubble bar | Karma soap, Karma bubble bar, Granny Takes a Dip bath bomb
The Christmas Hedgehog bubble bar | Sex Bomb bath bomb, Dorothy bubble bar
Drummers Drumming reusable bubble bar | Think Pink bath bomb, Comforter bubble bar, D'fluff shaving cream
Christmas Eve bubble bar | Blue Skies and Fluffy White Cloud bubble bar
The Christmas Penguin bubble bar | Pop in the Bath bubble bar & The Olive Branch shower gel
Candy Mountain bubble bar | Creamy Candy bubble bar
Magic Wand reusable bubble bar | Godmother soap, Creamy Candy bubble bar
Dashing Santa bath bomb | Sunnyside bubble bar
Cinders bath bomb | Fizzbanger bath bomb
So White bath bomb | Fizzbanger bath bomb
Luxury Lush Pud bath bomb | Twilight bath bomb
Shooting For The Stars bath bomb | Honey I Washed the Kids or Honeybee bath bomb
Golden Wonder bath bomb | Dragons Egg bath bomb or Avobath bath bomb
Father Christmas bath bomb | Think Pink bath bomb, Godmother soap, Comforter bubble bar, Creamy Candy bubble bar
Butterbear bath bomb | Butterball bath bomb

Shower & Body Products
Snowman Jelly shower jelly | Sultana of Soap soap
So White shower gel | Fizzbanger bath bomb
Hot Toddy shower gel | Karma bubble bar, Karma Soap, Granny Takes a Dip bath bomb
Snow Fairy shower gel | Godmother soap
Baked Alaska soap | Bohemian soap or Sexypeel soap
Reindeer Rock soap | The Comforter bubble bar
Yog Nog soap | Honey I Washed the Kids soap
Snowcake soap | Dream Time bath melt, Ceridwens Cauldron bath melt,
Snowman Kit fun | Sultana of Soap soap
Golden fun | Honey I washed the Kids soap &
Rose Jam shower gel | Ro's Argan Body Conditioner, Rose Jam bubbleroon & Rose Queen
First Snow dusting powder | Dragons Egg bath bomb
Celebrate body lotion | Dragons Egg bath bomb
Snow Fairy Sparkle massage bar | Godmother soap

Skincare
Buche de Noel cleanser | Angels on Bare Skin cleanser
Santa Baby lip tint | It Started With a Kiss lip tint
Santa's Lip Scrub | Bubblegum & all other lip scrubs

Lush Halloween Dupes
Lord of Misrule bath bomb | Hottie massage bar
Sparkler bath bomb | Rose Jam bubbleroon, Ro's Argan Body Conditioner & Rose Queen bath bomb
Northern Lights bath bomb | Sex Bomb bath bomb, Blue Skies and Fluffy White Clouds bubble bar
Fairy Ring soap | Sex Bomb bath bomb, Tender is the Night massage bar
Wizard bubble bar | Dorothy bubble bar
Sparkly Pumpkin bubble bar | Space Girl bath bomb, Happy Hippy shower gel
Disclaimer: please credit me if you have used any of my dupes <3

Top Festive Nail Polishes of // 2014

an image of top festive nail polishes 2014
an image of top festive nail polishes 2014
an image of top festive nail polishes 2014
an image of top festive nail polishes 2014
an image of top festive nail polishes 2014
With Christmas only a few days away I decided it was about time I shared some of my favourite nail polish picks for the festive season. Usually I'll attempt at putting up a nail art post, though I don't have the patience or steady hand to come up with so many intricate designs. I've tried and failed, deciding on sticking with my gel manicures, while dressing them up with some of my recent glitter & metallic purchases.

Barry M Aquarium Nail Paint Collection in Caspian
While in Boots last week I needed to make an offer up while at the Barry M stand. I'm a little late to the Aquarium Collection which launched earlier this year, but since ordering a trio from ASOS I've become hooked. The collection now features five duo-chrome polishes & three chunky glitter polishes, the duo-chromes really make your nails special by catching the light & glistening at every angle. Caspian, the gold/rose gold duo chrome only requires two thin coats and dries incredibly fast.

Barry M Aquarium Nail Paint Collection in Persian
Persian is the latest addition to the Aquarium Collection and would make an excellent nail choice for Christmas and the New Year whether worn alone or with an accompanying glitter. Persian is the 5th duo-chrome to the collection, deep purple with gold and bronze tones when in the light. I've worn this shade to death this December with no base or top coat (naughty me) but the polish lasted an impressive 5 days until chipping.

Barry M Aquarium Nail Paint Collection in Atlantis
Another new addition to the collection for Autumn-Winter was Atlantis & boy is it completely different to the other glitters in the Aquarium collection. Atlantis features multiple glitter types & colours, with oddly shaped pink glitters, large & small silver hexes, blue & purple diamonds. This would make the most perfect finishing touch to New Year nails.

Barry M Christmas 2014 Limited Edition Nail Paint in Starlight & Moonlight
I always look forward to the limited edition nail paints from Barry M released each Christmas. The two I have this year are exclusive to Boots and are free if you spend £6+ on the brand (one polish per £6+). Both feature multiple glitters suspended in a clear nail polish & feature festive red lids. My favourite of the two has to be Moon Light, a holographic glitter featuring various coloured glitters & stars. Starlight also contains stars, much more than Moonlight & gold based. As you can see by both bottles, the polishes are FULL of glitter and each stroke contains multiple stars, there is nothing more annoying than having to fight around the bottle for each star.

INM Northern Lights OTD Top Coat in Silver*
The last two polishes I've been loving recently are both from INM, a California based nail brand. Here I have their two holographic top coats that are also available in miniature form, perfect if you aren't a huge glitter user. P.S how perfect is the name of the range, Northern Lights couldn't be anymore fitting for the time of year. Being holographic means the glitter particles really reflect the light & result in every colour shining right back at you and a lovely 3D effect. Both polishes need to be shaken...a lot before you use them as the glitter particles do all sink to the bottom of the bottle. I find the gold polish to be harder to shake up and often get someone else to do it for me. Once shaken up it's surprising to see just how far the glitter reaches, not a patch of the bottle lacks glitter and it all applies evenly. What I love about this polish is it can be subtle as you like, I usually go for a couple coats as the glitter is exceptionally fine. The formula of the clear polish is thin & quite runny but dries ever so fast, you're talking seconds. My photo's will never give the polishes enough justice, they're incredibly beautiful and even make pretty polishes such as Persian that little bit more special. I've always been a sucker for holographic nails & boy am I loving INM. If I could only have one glitter polish in my collection I'd pick INM Northern Lights OTD Top Coat in Silver & would love to try out more products from the line in the New Year.
Disclaimer: press sample, for review consideration only, no payment received. see disclaimer page for more.

Lush // Holly Go Lightly review

an image of holly go lightly bubble bar
an image of holly go lightly bubble bar
an image of holly go lightly bubble bar
an image of holly go lightly bubble bar
an image of holly go lightly bubble bar
Yesterday saw me share some of my absolute favourite Lush products in my Stocking Filler gift guide. One of the products featured & yet to be reviewed on LW is Holly Go Lightly bubble bar £4.75 - my favourite bath product from this years festive creations which resembles a giant Christmas Pud. I've used several bars of Holly Go Lightly since the launch day, living at home means my Mum's also taken a shine to this product over all her usual scents & Christmas classics. Evenings I've offered to run her a bubble bath after a hard day, she always requests this little gem.

Holly Go Lightly is one of the bigger Christmas bath products, allowing you to get at least 4-5 baths from each bar. Think along the lines of a Christmas comforter. The bubble bar is actually a beautiful shade of emerald green under the heavy coating of silver lustre. Not a fan of glitter? You have nothing to worry about, I've not had any of the glitter stick to my skin after, nor does it leave my bath in an absolute state. Crumbling the bar under warm water is so easy, sometimes bubble bars can be quite crumby and hard, but Holly Go Lightly feels so soft, moisturising and creamy. Which explains just how soft the mermaid worthy waters feel when relaxing. You'll have mountains of bubbles with this bubble bar, in fact one time I used a little TOO much and nearly had them over the edge. I always get a bit carried away with bubble bars, crumbling and swishing away until my arm almost falls off. Scent wise Holly Go Lightly pairs up with Hot Toddy shower gel, a festive spicy fragrance of clove, patchouli, lime, cinnamon and sweet orange oil. You really are bathing within a Hot Toddy.

I'm hoping to see this cheery product in my Christmas Stocking next week, if not I'll be logging onto Lush on Boxing Day to see if I can get a years supply. Have you tried the fabulous Holly Go Lightly yet? Times running out & I urge you to pick one up before it's too late. Lucy xx

The Best Foodie Stocking Fillers // 2014

an image of food stocking fillers 2014
an image of food stocking fillers 2014
an image of hope and greenwood christmas bon bons
an image of food stocking fillers 2014
an image of food stocking fillers 2014
Having shared plenty of beauty themed gifts and stocking fillers I thought it'd be quite nice to share some of my favourite wintry themed goodies that I've picked up to put into family stockings. Each year I always tell my Mum that I don't want any sweets or chocolates, then about a week until the big day, after seeing so many of you Instagram Christmas goodies I totally take back what I've said. Do any of these tasty treats take your fancy? Lucy xx

Hope & Greenwood Christmas Bon Bon's | Next £6
These were an extra purchase while making an online order on Next. I hadn't noticed Next selling Hope & Greenwood items in the past, I was a huge fan of their recent show & wish for another series in the new year. The Bon Bon's are Gingerbread Latte & Mince Pie flavour, I can't believe how little I've seen of them on my time line, being Gingerbread Latte I thought bloggers would be all over them :P 

Thornton's Cherry Bakewell + Salted Pistachio + Ginger chocolate bars | £2.25
Also another spur of the moment purchase for someone when I was browsing my local Yankee & Thornton's store were these three little bars. I've picked them up before for my Dad, he absolutely loved them. They make for a great present stacked up and tied with some festive ribbons. I'm hoping to steal some of the Salted Pistachio come Christmas Day.

Nakd Gingerbread bar | Sainsburys £0.75
I'm so annoyed with myself right now, I thought I'd picked up the Christmas Pudding Nakd bar alas Sainsburys had filled the box with Gingerbread flavour. Thankfully whose stocking it's going in, like Gingerbread and it won't go to waste. Plus Nakd bars are SO SO good, I was sent a giant box of them before Christmas one year....we demolished them between the four of us.

Mini Gingerbread Men McVitie's
How adorable are these boxes of Mini Gingerbread men covered in chocolate? Again these are going in the Gingerbread fanatics stocking and were only a £1. Needless to say this will be their breakfast come Christmas day.

Beanies Instant Coffee Gingerbread flavour | Sainsburys £2.50
After seeing a lot about Beanies on every time line & subscription list I decided to pick up one of each coffee type. Pictured above is the Gingerbread instant coffee while I also picked up the Cinder Toffee flavour in Ground Coffee. Both retail for £2.50, sound delicious and make me want to like coffee. Who knows I may be converted? They're ultra low calorie at just 2 per serving & I'll pick more flavours up if you can use them in baking.

Terry's Chocolate Orange Minis Exploding Candy | Sainsburys £1.50 now £0.75
Christmas isn't Christmas without Terry's Chocolate Orange & the more varieties the better right? Exploding Candy is by far the favourite in our household with original coming closely behind. It's so hard to go shopping with everywhere having them on offer...they seem to slip into the trolley every time.

Milk Chocolate Brussels Sprouts | Sainsburys £1
The only chance of getting myself and my brother eating Brussels is to make them of the chocolate kind, well done Sainsburys. A little Christmas novelty hasn't hurt anyone. You're never too old to enjoy.

Chocolate Tool Kit | Sainsburys £3
My last item and yet another novelty item to shove into Stockings. I've picked this up to go in my Dad's to be from Harry our little puppy for all the fixing & puppy proofing to the house he's done. He'll find it amusing. My Mum has their chocolate sewing kit going in hers due to the amount of stitching to his toys & beds.

Stocking Fillers for her // 2014


an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
Who else is alarmed at how quick Christmas Day is approaching us? Time is ticking away, with just a week until the big day & even less for your Christmas shopping. So far on Lucyy Writes I've shared larger beauty and accessories aimed at women AND even covered gift for our four legged friends. Today's post is all about stocking fillers, my favourite bit about Christmas. You may even spot a few items I've featured in my best of series.
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
Joan Collins Paparazzi Ready Lip & Powder Compact Duo*
The wonderful Joan Collins launched her own makeup collection this year and boy is it incredible. I've tried various products with the Lip & Powder compact duo's being the perfect stocking filler. Having dry skin I'll stay away from powder but JC's leaves my skin feeling silky and provides a little more coverage. How beautiful is the packaging?!

Makeup Revolution Ultra Aqua Brow Tint in Medium*
They've taken the beauty market by a storm with their wonderful products & even more wonderful prices. Two products I'm loving from Makeup Revolution are the brow tints (dupe for Makeup Forever) and the All About Bronze blush palette. I own several palettes now, some eyeshadow and some blush and I honestly don't know how I survived without them. I've snubbed Nars, I've snubbed Urban Decay and I'm reaching for the budget brand for the majority of my routine some days. The bronzing blush palette is heaven, golden, shimmering and highly pigmented. While the brow tints, you need the slightest amount and you won't have to touch up all day.

Pouty Lipzz Lip Serum*
This little gem recently arrived at my door, having always used the Bourjois minty, plumping lip gloss in my teens I was eager to test this guy out. Who else used the minty blue tube? Priced much higher than my old time favourite I can say it's worth it. It's not as sticky, last a good few hours even through food & drinks (mind I drink with straws, anyone else weird like that?) & even helps to plump your lips the more days you wear it. Full review coming your way, but for now I just had to share it in my gift guide.

The Library of Fragrance in Almond £15*
Launched earlier this year The Library of Fragrances have endless fragrances and some quite peculiar. I recently received Almond, fans of Lush's Snow-cake perfume will be over the moon to hear there's a similar dupe on the market after it not returning a couple weeks ago. Each scent is available in 30ml, with Almond having an impressive staying power of 6-8 hours. Not all scents can be found in Boots, the majority are online only - when you have SO many it'd be impossible. If you're looking for something a little different to give this year I urge you to check out The Library of Fragrance where you can also team perfumes together for a unique fragrance.

The Sanctuary A Touch of Sparkle Body Butter 300ml
This has to be one of the best valued beauty baubles? The Sanctuary whipped up a special edition of their famous body butter for Christmas with shimmer in. Unlike some of the body themed baubles this body butter is full size at 300ml. I can't wait to gift this one.

Champneys Oriental Opulence Body Red Bauble
Another beauty bauble I featured in my The Best Beauty Baubles for 2014 blog post is the Oriental Opulence Red Bauble. Contained inside is a mini body cream. Oriental Opulence smells incredible, the best of the two & has my Mum's favourite essential oils - She'll love using this Christmas Day.

Soap & Glory Merry Kiss Much Bauble
Soap & Glory excel at Christmas time, I've loved the fact that they've joined into the bauble beauty hype that usually consisted of high-end brands. Inside you'll find the A Great Kisser Lip Balm in Peach, I hope Santa's picked one up for me this year.

Sallys Bow Lipgloss*
I couldn't help but include this cute stocking filler in my guide. I received this from Sally's and it instantly reminded me of being a child! If you've younger children just getting into makeup or siblings they'd love this.

Britney Spears Fantasy Twist 100ml
Following on with the bauble theme I've clearly loved this year is the Britney Spears Fantasy Twist which features both Fantasy and Midnight Fantasy. I've already featured a Fantasy 30ml gift set in my previous guide but couldn't resist the deal I found online. Midnight Fantasy is one of my all time favourite scents, I can remember picking it up on the plane home via an exclusive pre-launch. When I ordered my twist it was actually under £20, though £20.50 is an excellent price for 100ml EDP of two fabulous and long lasting fragrances.
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
Fuse Gelnamel Starter Kit*
Did you see my previous gift guide where I featured the Sensationail starter kit? Well, let me introduce you to Fuse...the sister brand to Sensationail which allows you to do gel manicures at your desk, travelling and to fix the odd nail. The miniature LED lamp plugs into the mains or by USB to your laptop. The lamp only fits one finger at a time but cures quicker than the original Sensationail. You don't need a base coat nor do you need a top coat. Fuse is all about saving time. Which is exactly what you want come Christmas morning when you're rushing to all get ready before the rest of the family arrive.

Fuse Gelnamel Nail Polish*
To accompany the Fuse started kit you'll want to add to the collection right? Here I have Vamp, a burgundy red perfect for the AW holidays. Out of the two shades I have it's the most pigmented and suits my ultra pale skin. There are a lot of colours to pick from, just take a look online or in Boots.

Sensationail Nail Polish in Love Bite*
Now as much as I do recommend Fuse I still adore my Sensationail products. I've been using the brand for a year now & have various colours. Love Bite and Smoky Night were recently sent to me and I've worn them A LOT. My favourite is Smoky Night, it's such a hard shade to describe when in different lights. Love Bite has a slight shimmer & both would be perfect for this time of year. Sensationail have also gone crazy and launched more shades in time for Christmas with 3 for £30 & delivery by Christmas running still.

Barry M ASOS Exclusive Aquarium Glitter Nail Set
When placing my AAASecretSanta order I needed to make my order up to get free delivery...why pay delivery when you can treat yourself? I spotted the exclusive boxed trio from Barry M featuring three polishes from their Aquarium collection. I've been wearing them constantly since they arrived, everyone compliments. They dry really fast & without a top coat when I'm pushed for time they've stayed chip free for 5 days. Crazy when metallic polishes would usually chip so soon!? 

Sallys Rock & Rose Nail Art Kit*
With the festivities I feel as if most of us like to go a little out there with our nails? One gift set that stands out is the Rock & Rose Nail Art Kit from Sally's who also do 3 for 2 on all their Christmas gifts. Inside the kit you'll find pods of nail charms, studs & nail art chains along with essential nail art tools of a nail file, tweezers, nail art glue, cuticle correctors and a guide in case you need a little inspiration. I'm looking forward to pulling out my nail wheels & creating some looks to share with you all, before deciding on my Christmas Day nails.

Sallys Nail Texture Nail Art Box*
Another nail offering from Sally's is the Nail Texture gift set which retails for a little more than the first. Inside is a whole bundle of nail art goodies starting with three rolls of nail foil, nail velvet, nail beads, nail studs & nail glitter. You also receive a little guide to get you started as well as nail art glue, pink nail polish & clear nail polish. Needless to say I'll be a busy bee creating different nail looks.
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
an image of beauty stocking fillers 2014
Lush Snow Fairy shower gel 500g
By now everyone should have heard about Snow Fairy, aka Lush's liquid candy floss. The pink shower gel comes back every year and so it should! Can you imagine the riots if they didn't allow it a place on our shelves? If the 500g won't fit into your stocking there's also 250g, 100g bottles & plenty of accompanying products to pick from.

Lush So White shower gel 250g
The new addition to the Christmas shower gels from Lush this year is the delicately scented So White, which some of you may already know from the bath bomb. This creamy, shimmering shower gel leaves skin incredibly soft & scented with a crisp apple & rose absolute scent.

Lush Golden Wonder bath bomb
Returning once again is Golden Wonder, the bath bomb that keeps on giving. Before you drop the bath bomb in, give it a shake? The surprise contents soon reveals itself with multiple colours, golden shimmer and soapy stars. With an uplifting scent of orange, lime and cognac you'll be feeling cheerful in no time.

Lush Holly Go Lightly bubble bar
If there's one product to purchase from this years Christmas Lush collection this is the one to go for. At just under £5 it's a perfect small gift or stocking filler. Each bubble bar is enough for at least 4-5 baths, carries the famous Hot Toddy fragrance (it's Christmas in a bubble bar) and under all the fine silver lustre's is an emerald green bubble bar just waiting to be unleashed.

Origins Masks to Go Clear Improvement*
My holy grail face mask is available in single use pods, perfect for slipping into those Christmas stockings or making up a gift. Whether it's the novelty factor or you know someone who travels frequently they're a great little gift to include.

Bubble T Cosmetics Hibiscus & Acid Berry Tea bath bombs*
I absolutely love the brand Bubble T Cosmetics. They're such a fun brand with a fantastic range of products all modelled around the popular drink. All products are made with tea infusions and smell incredible, my favourite scent being the Restoring Hibiscus & Acid Berry Tea which I have in bath bomb form. Each tube contains a generous amount of miniature bath bombs - don't be fooled by their small size they still pack a punch. With many gift bundles on offer from their website, theres now also bath spices & bath pearls to fill your stockings with.

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate*
Everyone needs the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate in their skincare collection. It's such a miracle product when it comes to keeping my very dry-dry skin hydrated & most importantly doesn't break me out.

The Body Shop Shea Beautifying Oil
I'm yet to try out The Body Shop's Beautifying Oils, though when shopping recently I had to pick up the Shea offering to pop in my Mums stocking. Oils are perfect if you hate moisturising with thick body butters.

The Body Shop Snowman Character Sponge
Everyone loves The Body Shop, especially around Christmas. While shopping with my little woof I was able to take him into The Body Shop where I picked up a couple gifts & the adorable Snowman character Sponge. I've had the reindeer in past Christmas' and loved using him. Frosty is currently tied to my someones stocking.

Yucoco Custom Chocolate Bar*
I was lucky enough to create my own custom chocolate bar recently with Yucoco. They'd make great stocking fillers or secret Santa's. Amongst the hundreds of toppings they've also added in a few handmade festive decorations that you can add to your bar. Not only do you get to pick multiple toppings and the type of chocolate but you also get to name the bar, have it labelled with your toppings & have it delivered incredibly fast. The team are so friendly another reason that enables them to stand out from competitors.

Lush T-shirts Four For You Candy Cane T-shirt*
Lush t-shirts were kind enough to send over one of their Christmas t-shirts recently. Plus how could I resist a Mean Girls quote? The quality of both material and printing is brilliant, super soft & the fit is true to size if a tad generous if you chose the boyfriend style. Feeling a little crappy last week & very sorry for myself I relied on various Christmas PJ's & this t-shirt.

Matalan Multi Stone Necklace
You can't go wrong with statement necklaces, especially with the amount of parties and get togethers. While browsing Matalan for the essential stocking fillers I spotted this gem twinkling away & knew who I've picked it up for will absolutely love it.

Radley iPhone 5s Case £25
It wouldn't be an LW gift guide without a spot of Radley making an appearance. Iphone cases make great stocking fillers, whether you go for a festive, novelty design or an adorable print like the ones Radley have on offer. I'm lucky to have an outlet near me...not so lucky for my bank account but you can count on everything looking super cute.

Have I just made your Christmas list a little longer? P.S who's finished their Christmas shopping? I'm just waiting on a few more items to arrive in the mail. Lucy xx
Disclaimer: press sample, for review consideration only, no payment received. see disclaimer page for more.

For Her Christmas Gift Guide // 2014


an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
This week has been one I've wanted to curl up under the duvet until January, meaning LW took a little break. Fear not, watching The Polar Express & The Holiday tonight has gotten me back onto my festive track. Today I'm sharing my top picks for gifting the females in your life this Christmas with the majority being beauty themed of course. For the most part I've now finished Christmas shopping, Christmas wrapping and delivered all the family cards. I can't wait for the next week to fly by to get cracking on some delicious Christmas bakes.
an image of Lush Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of britney spears fantasy
Lush Happy Christmas gift set
When it comes to Christmas gift sets and gifts in general you can't go wrong with Lush. With beautiful wrapping papers, kind to earth knot-wraps and quirky tins, before you've seen the contents there's a huge smile on your face. Happy Christmas features five popular Lush products, all of which don't feature around a bath tub as well as three being limited edition. Rub Rub Rub, the classic blue shower scrub smells divine & remains gentle. Festive items to appear are the delicately apple scented So White shower gel, cola flavoured Santa's Lip Scrub and citrus bursting Baked Alaska soap. The fifth product to appear is Million Dollar Moisturiser (SPF30) in trial size.

Lush Snow Fairy gift set
Because one Lush gift set simply isn't enough, Snow Fairy gift set as you can guess is filled with products that carry the sweet, sweet scent. Inside you'll find the following candy floss delights; Snow Fairy shower gel 100g, Godmother soap, Snow Fairy Sparkle massage bar & Magic Wand reusable bubble bar. If you're looking to put a sprinkle of magic under someones Christmas tree this is the one to buy.

The Body Shop Shea Festive Picks
Following closely behind Lush are The Body Shop where you can always count on picking up a bargain or two. The Shea range in The Body Shop always seems to underrated yet is perfect if you're unsure on which scent to head for. Inside you'll find a 250ml Shea Shower Cream, 50ml Shea Body Butter, 50ml Shea Body Scrub, 100g Shea Soap & Cream Mini Bath Lily. With the current offer being 40% off, free delivery over £5 & a free gift, I've also ordered the Argan Oil Festive Picks with my Mum in mind....before I realised just HOW much I've picked out for her already. We can share right? :P

Nourish Argan Beauty gift set*
This gift set couldn't get anymore Christmassy if it tried. The luxurious trio from organic brand Nourish would make a lovely gift this festive period.  Products contain shimmering gold, rejuvenating frankincense and revitalising myrrh along with omega-rich organic Moroccan Argan Oil. Argan Skin Renew (15ml) is a rich moisturiser to repair dehydrated skin from the cold winter winds without leaving skin feeling sticky or oily. The Argan Skin Rescue (5ml) is a little miracle for myself suffering with dry, irritated skin. The oil is light, soothing and ever so hydrating. While it's the Golden Glow Illuminating Face Shimmer (15ml) that remains a firm favourite of mine, whether used under my foundation or simply on my cheekbones.

Jimmy Choo Stars 60ml EDP
Stars, the latest addition to the Jimmy Choo line of fragrances launched this year. Despite being described as a fruity fragrance the perfume definitely holds onto it's warm spicy notes of sandalwood & patchouli. With top notes of orange, candied orange and heart of orchid & toffee there's no better fragrance to gift this Christmas. If only this perfume was for myself.

Ghost Deep Night 50ml EDT £26.95
There are some incredible deals on Ghost perfumes right now, they're classics with Deep Night being over 10 years old. The deep purple crescent bottle contains a unique fragrance, one my Mum in particular adores. The overall fragrance is dreamy & romantic with notes of indian rose, a heart of orange, white tree & apricot while a sensual base of vanilla, amber and musk. So Mum I hope you aren't reading this because you've just spoilt your Christmas gifts <3

Diesel Loverdose 50ml EDP
Did anyone else snap up Loverdose when Boots had it as an offer of the week? If you're looking for a fragrance to pick up for someone in their late teens to mid twenties Loverdose would be one to keep in mind due to it's soft-spicy & fragrance & oriental base. What are your thoughts on the purple, arrow pierced heart bottle?  

Britney Spears Fantasy 30ml EDP
The last perfume to feature in this years gift guide has a soft spot in my heart. Fantasy, the Swarovski crystal adorned perfume by Britney Spears has been in my collection since I was 11. I can remember receiving a similar gift set on Christmas morning of both Fantasy & Curious. Britney Spears fragrances are perfect if you've a teen to buy for though in my twenties you'll still catch me wearing Midnight Fantasy almost daily  which receives endless compliments. Fantasy is the original, sweetest and the one to start with from the large Fantasy range. Fantasy has notes of kiwi, golden quince, jasmine & white chocolate and a slight musky base. 

Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
There was a part of me expecting Urban Decay to whip up a Naked 4 palette this year, alas they've headed into multi product compact palettes. Of course all three Urban Decay Naked palettes make incredible gifts to the eyeshadow junkies out there but it's Naked 3 that shouts Christmas with it's various rose gold shades in matte, satin shimmer & heavy glitter finishes.
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of the sanctuary box of delights
an image of For Her Christmas Gift Guide 2014
an image of christmas gifts for her
an image of modalu purse
Sensationail Gel Starter Kit pink chiffon*
As a gel manicure lover I can't recommend Sensationail enough, especially around Christmas when they have deals flying around. Boots have followed in last years footsteps with another deluxe starter kit on offer. Whereas here I have the Pink Chiffon (basic starter kit) which is just as good & the perfect shade to go for when you're first venturing into gel manicures. If you're not able to wear bold nails due to work or school, Pink Chiffon is neutral enough to get away with. Inside each kit you'll find everything you need to recreate the salon treatment in your very own home. You'll be seeing a few other shades popping up on LW between now & the New Year.

Bare Minerals Kissing Booth*
Bare Minerals have some amazing gift sets this holiday season with Kissing Booth being my absolute favourite. For just £25 you receive six mini Marvellous Moxie lip glosses, 3 shimmer & 3 cream finish. Shades include Big Tease, Lucky Lady, Sweet Kisser, Major Flirt, Thrill Seeker & Jezebel. This gift set deserves a post of its own for you to see just how incredible each and every shade is.

Makeup Revolution Awesome Eyeshadow Collection*
100 eyeshadows!? The amazing Makeup Revolution are always whipping up new palettes but one you may not have seen is the Awesome Eyeshadow Collection which retails for just £12. Whether you're a fan of the brand already, or just getting into makeup this palette should be on your list. The majority of the shadows are incredible pigmented & dreamy to blend. If you're giving as a gift the palette comes packaged in the usual black Makeup Rev packaging, perfect for wrapping.

The Sanctuary Spa Box of Delights
I've loved The Sanctuary's gift range this Christmas, the packaging of the range has been so pretty compared to previous years of the bright orange cardboard.  The brand covers most age ranges, with the Box of Delights making an impressive find for Christmas morning. Inside you'll find classic The Sanctuary products, mostly full size and a couple samples with a little voucher too. At its full price this gift set is a great deal in the 3 for 2 and even better when it comes to the boxing day sales...if there are any left.

Yankee Candle Snowflake Cookie Large Jar
No other companies do candles better than Yankee and Yankee certainly excel at Christmas time. Returning from last year is Snowflake cookie, in my opinion it's their best Christmas scent. What can beat the scent of warm, vanilla cookies and buttery frosting?

Modalu Lilac Purse
This particular item is one I've purchased for myself in a bright lime green. Trust me when I say it's more beautiful than it sounds. When out shopping the person who I was with took a shine to the lilac & didn't buy it. I've picked this up recently and made sure to pop a pound coin in for luck? Anyone else have a mum who insists on doing so? Modalu purses are exceptional quality with plenty of card slots & pockets hidden away.

I'd love to hear if any of the above items are on your own personal Christmas list? How much shopping do you all have left to do? Lucy xx
Disclaimer: press sample, for review consideration only, no payment received. see disclaimer page for more.

Lush // Butterbear review

an image of lush butterbear bath bomb
an image of lush butter bear review
an image of Lush Butterbear review
Each year a few of our most loved Lush products receive a new identity to appear in the Christmas line up, with Butterbear being an excellent example. The gentle bath bombs regular form is Butterball, the petite bath bomb with no colour except a few speckles from the large amount of cocoa butter packed inside him. Usually the little guy arrives for the winter period as a Snowman, but I have to say the bear is even harder to resist...especially when you notice the significant price difference between Butterbear £1.95 & Butterball £2.65

Upon entering the water Butterbear won't do much, sure he fizzes but he hasn't a coloured centre waiting to explode, not even a sprinkle of glitter. Though your bathroom is soon filled with the most delicious of vanilla-chocolaty fragrance that lingers on your skin long after your relaxing soak. Lush have included Ylang Ylang Oil too, which is an aromatherapy oil used to treat stress, depression and even help reduce panic and fear. The cocoa butter that's been packed into the bath bomb melts instantly into the water, soothing and nourishing your dry skin without leaving a sticky film on your body. Butterbear or Butterball is gentle enough if you suffer from Eczema and irritations, perfect for children and a wonderful pick me up for us adults. Sometimes you just need a Butterbear hug and boy has Butterball seen me through enough bad days.

Boxing Day sees Lush's famous 50% off sale...or so I assume. If there are any Butterbear's left online I'll be ordering a years supply. Who can blame me? My favourite winter bath treat will be under £1 per bath bomb. Have you picked up a Butterbear yet? Lucy x
© Lucyy Writes

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