When it comes to makeup brushes, it can seem a bit intimidating. There are so many shapes, sizes and densities that it may seem difficult to distinguish what brush does what?
For that sake of this blogpost I'm going to use one of my previous blog posts on the Zoeva Brushes to show you how and where I use the brushes on my face.
1. Foundation
Recently I've been using the 'Silk Finish' brush as my foundation brush. I use a liquid foundation as I find powders and mousse's quite drying for my skin. I find that it blends the foundation out really well on my face without leaving brush strokes or wasting product. Other options for this are brushes like a 'stippling' brush or you could even use a 'beauty blender' which is basically a clever sponge but makes your makeup base look flawless- I'm eager to try one of these.
2. Concealer
I tend to apply liquid concealer and dab it in with my finger, especially under my eyes. However, when I do use a brush it tends to be the 'Concealer Buffer', again, in dabbing motions so as not to pull the under eye area or move the concealer away from the area that I'm trying to conceal.
3. Powder
Some girls may find that they do not need to powder they're face, especially if they are not susceptible to an oily T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin area). However for the girls that find after a few hours their nose gets oily, then powder if a must! I tend to use a large fluffy brush. The one from the Zoeva collection is lovely as is soft and fairly large. However, I do alternate between that one and one I got fairly cheaply off eBay which is a bit bigger and just as soft.
4. Bronzer
This is the same as the powder for me, as the large brush covers the areas of my face that the sun would naturally hit very quickly and effortlessly.
5. Contour
Now contour can be different, depending on what product I'm using. If I'm using a powder to contour then I tend to actually use my Eco tools 'mineral powder' brush from THIS set as it is flatter and can fit nicely into the hollow of my cheek. However, if I'm using a liquid or cream bronzer I will tend to use the 'Face Shape' and blend out with the foundation brush if necessary.
6. Blush
I'm only just starting to like blush, I was always afraid of it and to be honest I'm not sure why because there are so many beautiful blushes out there! I guess it was to do with precision and me being scared I was going to look ridiculous with big pink circular cheeks! At the moment I am using a powder blush and to apply it I use the 'Luxe Sheer Cheek' which is soft and angled. This brush is great because I can apply it lightly in the exact place I want it to be.
7. Eyebrows
Some Eyebrow products have the tint (colour) and brush in one, like the 'Gimme Brow' from Benefit. However, if you like to switch up what you use and like to wear powder then I highly recommend using either the 'Winged Liner' brush or the Mac '266'. My preference if the Mac brush as the bristles are more sturdy to apply to colour but the Zoeva brush can do the same job. To brush to hairs into shape you can use a spooly or even a brow setting gel like the one I use- Rimmel Brow Gel Clear
8. Eyes
In my opinion, you CANNOT use and blend eyeshadows without brushes. From my experience, the eyeshadows are not put on accurately and are smudged in places you don't what it and are not blended well. I like to use the 'Soft Definer' to apply the main colour to my eyelid and then either blend it out or apply a slightly darker colour to the crease and blend with the 'Petite Crease'. These are both excellent brushes that I really enjoy using. If you're applying gel eyeliner or a dark eyeshadow to line the eyes I really like the 'Winged Liner' brush for this too as it is super soft to my eyes yet accurate in where you're placing the product.
If the Zoeva brushes are too expensive, especially if you're just trying brushes out- then I would definitely recommend buying cheaper versions (I quite like Eco tools) and use the Zoeva kit as a guide.
Love C. xx
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Sunday, 29 March 2015
Thursday, 26 March 2015
Compliments| Why it is important to accept them
Compliments are gifts.
When someone gives you a really nice gift that you're not sure about, you accept it and say 'thank you' because that's what we've been told to do and what is acceptable, that is polite. You wouldn't say 'I'm sorry can you take this back because I don't like it'. Well, I mean some people would, but I think that the social norm is to accept the gift and be grateful- it's the thought that counts right?!
People refuse compliments like an unwanted gift.
They ignore, dismiss, argue, rebound it, question and devalue themselves.
Why is it so bad to accept a compliment?
I know I'm the same- I struggle to take a compliment.
But why?
Fear of being smug or feeling like you owe them, (like if someone buys you a gift and you feel like you have to buy them one back). Perhaps its low self esteem or false modesty. Or again is is a social norm to not accept compliments? Is it just women, because I would beg to differ?
My guess is that more than half of us do it. But by doing this we make the person giving us the compliment feel awkward and may not want to compliment you again. You make yourself feel rubbish because you can't accept that someone else see's differently to what you see.
So, in all honesty you're not doing anyone any favours. Not your friend/ partner/ mother, whoever and certainly not yourself.
Next time someone compliments you- just say 'Thank you' or 'That really means a lot'. Even if you don't particularly believe it, its still is heartwarming.
What are your thoughts on this topic? Can you take a compliment? Why/why not?
Until next time...
Love C. xx
P.s You have a beautiful smile, share it :)
Follow me:
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My email address is pureaccidentalbeauty@gmail.com
When someone gives you a really nice gift that you're not sure about, you accept it and say 'thank you' because that's what we've been told to do and what is acceptable, that is polite. You wouldn't say 'I'm sorry can you take this back because I don't like it'. Well, I mean some people would, but I think that the social norm is to accept the gift and be grateful- it's the thought that counts right?!
People refuse compliments like an unwanted gift.
They ignore, dismiss, argue, rebound it, question and devalue themselves.
Why is it so bad to accept a compliment?
I know I'm the same- I struggle to take a compliment.
But why?
Fear of being smug or feeling like you owe them, (like if someone buys you a gift and you feel like you have to buy them one back). Perhaps its low self esteem or false modesty. Or again is is a social norm to not accept compliments? Is it just women, because I would beg to differ?
My guess is that more than half of us do it. But by doing this we make the person giving us the compliment feel awkward and may not want to compliment you again. You make yourself feel rubbish because you can't accept that someone else see's differently to what you see.
So, in all honesty you're not doing anyone any favours. Not your friend/ partner/ mother, whoever and certainly not yourself.
Next time someone compliments you- just say 'Thank you' or 'That really means a lot'. Even if you don't particularly believe it, its still is heartwarming.
What are your thoughts on this topic? Can you take a compliment? Why/why not?
Until next time...
Love C. xx
P.s You have a beautiful smile, share it :)
Follow me:
Instagram Twitter Pinterest Snapchat: claudiapoppy
My email address is pureaccidentalbeauty@gmail.com
Sunday, 22 March 2015
209 Seconds That Will Make You Question Your Entire Existance| Mind Blown
So Sunday's sometimes get me thinking, you know... when I'm sat in my PJ's with a cup of coffee and chocolate bar.. after watching Bambi (Sunday's are meant for Disney films!) naturally!
I was just scanning through Youtube, as you do, and stumbled on the channel 'BuzzFeedBlue'. I have seen this channel before, they show awesome videos on things that you possibly always questioned but never knew the answer, or just other cool experiments or tricks.
I want to share with you a video that has made me really think hard about.. well, my life.. human existance and just the universe in general.
If this is too much for a Sunday- I do apologise and pop back over here when you're feeling more in the mood and prepared for a video this intense!
Here's the video: Ready to blow your mind?
Let me know your thoughts on the matter?
Love C. xx
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I was just scanning through Youtube, as you do, and stumbled on the channel 'BuzzFeedBlue'. I have seen this channel before, they show awesome videos on things that you possibly always questioned but never knew the answer, or just other cool experiments or tricks.
I want to share with you a video that has made me really think hard about.. well, my life.. human existance and just the universe in general.
If this is too much for a Sunday- I do apologise and pop back over here when you're feeling more in the mood and prepared for a video this intense!
Here's the video: Ready to blow your mind?
Let me know your thoughts on the matter?
Love C. xx
Follow me:
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Thursday, 19 March 2015
Current Favourite Store| Oasis
I am absolutely loving Oasis fashion at the moment! They are killing it!
I've never really been into Oasis before, but recently I've stumbled onto their website and discovered their range and I am definitely impressed!
I chose a few of the items on their website to show you what sort of things I'm on about. There are many more that I like too. These looks are classic and easy to put on. I love the fact that these pieces are lightweight but could be layered with either jackets or blazers.
With the Sleeveless Drape Cardi, you could pop a long sleeve top underneath or wear it with shorts which I think would look super cute and I find it an exciting piece that could be worn lots of different ways.
I find these so suitable for Spring because you can add a bit of colour with the amazing range of prints or accessories that are available.
Also, I am super excited for the 'Loved by Mollie' range which is coming out soon! I love her style and am keen to see what sort of pieces she is loving.
Lets just say I'm excited for payday. I may have to add a few of these to my wardrobe as 'must -have staples'...
What's your favourite shop at the moment? Anything you're dying to get your hands on?
Love C. xx
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Snapchat: claudiapoppy
Sunday, 15 March 2015
Being a Big Kid| Why it is good to be childish sometimes
Sometimes I look back at the things I used to do as a kid and think 'oh my gosh, that would be so fun to be able to do still'. Obviously as we grow older, we have to grow up in our behaviour too, or so society thinks we should. At times life can get a bit stressful and we just want to take a step back from the moment and do things that make us, chill out, relax, or even be a bit silly. Obviously there is a time and a place for these sorts of things, of course you can't be at work and say 'hey guys, look at me!' and do a cartwheel down the hallway. Well.. you could if your job was a gymnast or something, but generally it's a no no!
Sometimes I think about how fun it would be to have an adult version of soft play. How cool would that be?! Please tell me I'm not the only one? I would definitely pay to be able to play on bouncy steps and run through some rolling pins, then crawl through a tunnel and slide down a massive slide that turns out that you come out of a snakes mouth! I'm sorry but that's just the way I feel. It's the big kid inside of me that makes me want to go and play on something like that.
Who else still goes on the swing when the park is empty? Sometimes I feel like I can't or shouldn't (obviously I don't go into the playground if theres a sign that says 'under 8 years only' or whatever) but sometimes when there is no one around, yes, I do just go in for a swing or to have a go on some apparatus- okay it's been a while but I think its good to do it sometimes. Again, when the timings right. You don't want to be hogging the swing with a 5 year old waiting in the wings behind you! Thats just mean.
Life can get stressful, jobs can get stressful, especially with certain jobs that are so serious all the time. It can become a bit of a burden. These childish things are a way of relaxing and feeling there is not a care in the world for a few minutes at least. Colouring in can be relaxing, Ash and I did this at Nandos a month or so ago. We found it so funny that we were doing it but it was really nice and fun. Another thing that I'm sure a lot of people do but sometimes won't admit, is dancing in your room on your own. The other day, I thought of a year a few years ago with great memories and times where I felt happy, with little care or just generally a time that was good for me. I went onto Spotify and typed in, for example '2008 hits' and clicked on the playlist option. The music reminded me of times where I felt free, a little silly and childish and also happy. I danced around the room for a good hour or so. It was so much fun and brightened my mood (also a great calorie burner!).
My point is, obviously chose your timing, but give in to your inner child and do things that make you happy, laugh and smile because life is too short to be an adult all the time!
Let me in on what you do to be a big kid!
Love C. xx
Instagram Twitter Pinterest Snapchat: claudiapoppy
Sometimes I think about how fun it would be to have an adult version of soft play. How cool would that be?! Please tell me I'm not the only one? I would definitely pay to be able to play on bouncy steps and run through some rolling pins, then crawl through a tunnel and slide down a massive slide that turns out that you come out of a snakes mouth! I'm sorry but that's just the way I feel. It's the big kid inside of me that makes me want to go and play on something like that.
Who else still goes on the swing when the park is empty? Sometimes I feel like I can't or shouldn't (obviously I don't go into the playground if theres a sign that says 'under 8 years only' or whatever) but sometimes when there is no one around, yes, I do just go in for a swing or to have a go on some apparatus- okay it's been a while but I think its good to do it sometimes. Again, when the timings right. You don't want to be hogging the swing with a 5 year old waiting in the wings behind you! Thats just mean.
Life can get stressful, jobs can get stressful, especially with certain jobs that are so serious all the time. It can become a bit of a burden. These childish things are a way of relaxing and feeling there is not a care in the world for a few minutes at least. Colouring in can be relaxing, Ash and I did this at Nandos a month or so ago. We found it so funny that we were doing it but it was really nice and fun. Another thing that I'm sure a lot of people do but sometimes won't admit, is dancing in your room on your own. The other day, I thought of a year a few years ago with great memories and times where I felt happy, with little care or just generally a time that was good for me. I went onto Spotify and typed in, for example '2008 hits' and clicked on the playlist option. The music reminded me of times where I felt free, a little silly and childish and also happy. I danced around the room for a good hour or so. It was so much fun and brightened my mood (also a great calorie burner!).
My point is, obviously chose your timing, but give in to your inner child and do things that make you happy, laugh and smile because life is too short to be an adult all the time!
Let me in on what you do to be a big kid!
Love C. xx
Instagram Twitter Pinterest Snapchat: claudiapoppy
Thursday, 12 March 2015
Furry Coats and Cute Collars| A outfit for lunch and a stroll
Note to self: wear white bra...
Hey Ya'll!
I love the look of the cute girly collar with the fluffy furry coat. It casual yet smart and I like that about this outfit.
The coat (from H&M) is super cosy and warm and I feel like I can wear this with most outfits. I've had this Shirt (Similar) from Jack Wills for a while and I still love wearing it.
The Jeans are super comfy and have a bit of stretch to cling to your curves, there is nothing worse than wearing saggy jeans!
The bag is from Zara and the shoes are Converse.
I'm hoping to get more of these shirts with collars to add to my wardrobe staples.
Sunday, 8 March 2015
Breakfast of the week| I can't get enough of..
Hello all!
I just wanted to let you know my favourite breakfast of the week that I'm absolutely in love with at the moment!
I never used to like avocado, especially as a kid and would always refuse it. I just used to think it was slimy and bland and would always give it to my brother because he liked it.
Now - I can't get enough! If I could, I'd probably have it with every meal. Avocado is actually a superfood that is a fruit! Yes, a fruit! It has so many health benefits such as having more potassium than a banana, high in good fat which is better for your heart than normal fats and is high in fibre and could help lower your cholesterol. There has been some research to support that avocados can help promote weight loss.
In the mornings I've been loving a ripe avocado, mashed on top of toast with thinly sliced tomato and a pinch of salt. It is delicious! I would definitely recommend this as a breakfast idea, snack or even a lunch idea too!
Perhaps if I find another meal amazing I can share some recipes or meal ideas with you!
Ps sorry about the poor quality photo!
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