Three Things I Bought That You Should Too

I have been buying make up. Shocking I know.

Good thing is there is plenty to tell you about with all the new goodies. All of the things I bought were very very necessary of course but there is three that really stand out. These three are now used daily and I thought you should probably buy them also.

My most favorite purchase of past few months has to be the Bourjois Volume 1 Seconde Ultra Black mascara(Link). I believe the chain of command went a little like this- Zara told Laura she has to buy this. Laura tried it and next time we were in the mall together she walked me over to the Bourjois and then walked me to the cashier because according to her it was something amazing. I haven't bought a drug store mascara for ages cause generally I get disappointed but both ladies in this case are well trusted in makeup related subjects so I was excited to give this a try. Well I LOVE IT. It promises to lengthen and thicken and delivered on both fronts. It doesn't clump after two coats and never smudges. Its really good! I dont plan to try out any mascaras for a while cause this is perfect.

Secondly lets talk NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer(Link). This was the first thing I picked up once NARS arrived in Dubai few months back. It is as great as I hoped it would be. Its a beautiful luminous finish and super easy to blend. It works magic on my dark circles. It does need a proper powdering to avoid creasing specially when I use it in under eye area but other than that I can not fault it. Must have product that is a staple in my daily routine.

To my knowledge we didn't have The Balm in Dubai so I just looked at swatches and kept dreaming about this highlighter. Until I saw a new stand in Debenhams full of all pretty products. Mary-Lou Manizer highlighter (Link) was bought in record time and I have to say I do over use it because..soooo pretty! No glitter, no color just a beautiful sheeny glow that reflects the light in all the right places. Seriously must buy if you haven't already!

So fourth is a bonus round because brushes tend to be too boring to count on their own. They are important and blablabla but I dont exactly get excited buying them. However there hasn't been a brush I didn't like from Sephora Pro range and the new addition is just as good. This time I picked up the Sephora Pro Precision Crease Brush #17. Well you dont necessarily need it but if you feel your crease brushes are a bit too fluffy to get the shade in the exact place you want this. It has a rounded end and long bristles and it really does give the precision that a bigger brush doesnt.

Have you bought anything new lately that has gone straight into the favorites list? I would love to hear so I can add them into my shopping list.

Life Lately #12

Its been a very long time since last Life Lately or at least it feels like it because of the whirlwind work manic months I have had. Dubai events season tries to always fit everything into a few weeks and that means an explosion of crazy times for everyone. Now however it has calmed down a bit and Im on my last week before Christmas holidays.

Shall we look back on few highlights from Nov-Dec?

- I know the first picture is not exactly quality but its me nonchalantly chatting to Prince Harry so I hope you understand why it had to be included. Let me tell you a little more- I was working at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and managing a yacht at Yas Marina. We were told about 15min before hand that Prince wants to do yacht hopping with his entourage and will be coming onto ours. I really thought its a load of bs but nope..I had barely set everything up and cleared an area when he arrived. All charming and tall and well..very handsome. This btw was news to me. Being Estonian I'm not very well informed regarding British Royal Family and didn't expect him to be that handsome. I immediately texted Laura to which she confirmed that it is indeed a well known fact he is a good looking guy. So yeah..that was pretty awesome!

- Another very awesome thing that happened during the F1 weekend was Pharrell concert. I have dreamed of seeing this genius live for a very very long time and he certainly did not disappoint. I danced and sang along and even though he actually lost his voice half way through the concert I came away with very high emotion.

- This was way back in November but worth a mention because I loveeed attending the Oribe event. First of all I knew I liked the brand before because who can live with out Dry Texturizing Spary anyway but after meeting the beautiful ladies from Oribe and getting a quick hairstyling session I'm a full on convert. It is pricey yes but boy oh boy the stuff is good. I will do a blog post soon of the new things.Some I bought and some were kindly gifted to us at the event by Emerging Beauty Brands ladies. 

- Continuing on the subject of fun events I had the pleasure of attending Esquire Man At His Best awards. I cant help but love black tie events because dressing up is so much fun! I hadn't been to one in a very long time and forgotten how great it feels to fancy it up once in a while. In addition I got to spend time with some faaabulous ladies and have some amazing Chivas cocktails so fab times all around.

- Now next is a working event but dressing up party was no less fun. I planned my time well enough that I even had hair and makeup done (usually at work events I have to do what I call a 10min turn around which involves changing in a toilet and slapping on red lippy fast). Chivas Legends Dinner is an annual event I have been involved with for three years now and this years legends was Sir Patrick Stewart. SUCH an inspiring and fascinating guy. I'm so honored I had the chance to listen to him.

- Lastly my favorite purchase of the month. This ASOS Floral Printed Midi Prom dress that I can not get enough of. I might go as far as to call this my favorite ASOS purchase of the year! The fabric is great, the fit is beautiful and I feel like straight out of Mad Men in it. It is out of stock at the moment but surely will be back soon. 

So that's it for now. 

I'm off to Sweden and Estonia next week for a 12day holiday which will involve a lot of food, family time, mulled wine and belly laughs. 

My only issue is what does one wear? I haven't been back in winter time for 2 years and I also own approximately 2 sweaters and zero pairs of winter boots. I guess I will have to go shopping again (said in a fake annoyed voice cause who am I kidding..Yey for shopping forever!)

Lipstick Talk = My Happy Place

Oh gosh I have missed you guys!

It has been a mental month of non stop work.
I havent had an ounce of inspiration or energy left to blog but I have missed doing it so much.

Im not all done yet. I actually have our biggest event of the year tomorrow so I should definitely be finalizing the seating plans and managing the last bits but my mind needed a break and telling you about my latest new lipstick is my happy place.

NARS Audacious lipsticks (Link)- you have surely heard about them already? To be honest I have mixed feelings. I know everyone and their mother seems to love them but I think they are just fine. I like the packaging (very fancy magnetic closure) and there sure are some beautiful shades available but the formula is a bit high maintenance. People seem to like the velvety texture but on me it bleeds if used without primer and lip pencil and I feel it might be a little too creamy. Also there is no way I would slap that on from the bullet- it requires a brush and steady hand. Lets put it that way- it ain't no Tom Ford.

Saying all that I still like it. Its a good lipstick and if you are like me- into the bright orangy reds check out Lana.

Its a color I have in many many variations but I obviously needed more.

You know what I am talking about- bright, eye catching, warm undertones, red but still pulls a lot of orange. I like that a lot!

I'm tempted to pick up the dark oxblood shade called Charlotte next as I have seen Laura rocking it and every time I feel like asking "Whats on your lips?". It would be very much out of my comfort zone but I also think it would be very much awesome to wear it for Christmas parties. Trouble is I need a liner to match as I don't have anything dark in my collection.

Have you picked up any of the new Nars? Whats your favorite Audacious? 

Comfort Zone FOTD

I thought I will show you my current comfortable makeup rut and the products I have been using on most days.

Its nothing innovative I'm afraid we are still safely in the land of taupe browns and other similar eyeshadows with a dash of lipgloss (that gets changed for a bright lip every now and then). But it takes me minimal effort and time in the mornings and I'm all about that extra snooze.

Now I dont want to lie because there are days where I feel that nothing else but a cat flick will do so I spend that extra 10min of trying to perfect my eyeliner but most morning I choose having a longer morning cuddle with the dog and cats. To be honest anything that requires a steady hand in the morning is a bit of a challenge as this is the time Yallas loves to jump up and down on my lap.

The winning combo for those "lets-just-smack-stuff-on" mornings is Mac Sable eyeshadow (Link) packed onto the lid and blended lighter into the crease. On top of that goes By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock (Link). I still have a lot of love for this shimmery plummy cream stick. I think this alone is a bit weak for me but paired with Sable you couldn't get a better match. It also blends like a dream and stays put for the whole day. This is shimmer in its best form no glittery bits in sight.

On the rest of my face you can find:
Face: NARS Sheer Glow foundation
          Clinique Airbrush Concealer
          Laura Mercier mineral powder

Bronzer: Smashbox Bronze Lights bronzer in Suntan Matte
Blush: NARS Orgasm
Mascara: Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes
Eyeshadow: Mac Sable, By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock and a bit of Silk Teddy (from Too Faced Natural Eyes palette) in the inner corner 
Lips: NYX Butter Gloss in Apple Strudel

Whats your current favorite every day eyeshadow? 
Something that makes you feel put together but is super easy to use as well.. 

Life Lately #11

The latest bits from my life are here..

- I have a confession to make. I have never ever dressed up for Halloween before. 2 years in a row I have had to work the next day early morning so we skipped it and previous years we just never lived anywhere where it was a big thing. So this year I was dead set I want to attempt a sugarskull makeup. I bought the face paint, I bought the fake flowers to make a crown- only to have the house party we were supposed to go to be canceled on the same day. By this point there was no stopping me so I painted my face anywa.. and Morgans as well by the way. It was close call we were gonna be the odd couple who stays at home with full face of paint until friends invited us to a dinner party. We totally went full costume and makeup ignoring that this wasn't really a Halloween dinner party. Was fun! Wish I had more opportunities to do that.

- Zulu has been on a roll with looking awesome daily so I have approx 100 pictures of just her every week. Here she is posing with Morgans Halloween hat. If you like cats may I suggest you follow Zulu on instagram ( @zuluthebatcat)

- my work schedule is pretty cray-cray at the moment, there is a few events every week. This can be exhausting but it also allows me to see some awesome venues in Dubai I wouldnt necessarily happen to other wise. Above you see a picture of Glenlivet whiskey dinner we organized in a stunning and a bit surreal private dining room in One&Only hotel. I think that is one of my favorite venues to hold dinner events in. Total magic with large golden seats and huge dining table.

- I have done very well on my shopping ban minus last few days. Firstly I have wanted the Mary-Lou Manizer for ages but as far as I knew they don't sell theBalm in Dubai. Well I spotted a whole new theBalm counter in Debenhams MOE and before I knew what was going on I had purchased the much talked about highlighter. It was a force stronger than me, I'm sorry! (im not sorry really. Its the best highlighter I have ever ever had) If anything I'm proud of myself that I walked away with only one thing. I just need to get a grip now as I get a bit heavy handed with this as its sooo pretty.

- The long awaited beautiful, breezy, pleasant and warm summer night of Dubai have finally arrived. Me and husband celebrated it with a sheesha in Fairmont The Palm. The views from there are rather stunning arent they? It also serves one of the best sheeshas in town if you ask me.

- Last but not the least I got to start this workweek with a day off. As the weekend was a working kind my Sunday was spent laying in a sun lounger in a beach club. Juice ( that got swapped for wine during lunch) in hand and a good book to keep me companied. It was one of those perfect days that leave you rested and happy for a while.

Btw I am half way done with my book so any suggestions what should I pick up next are very welcomed?

Nailpolish..again?!

Well yes..
I tried do put together another Polishes post but it ain't happening.

Because there is an abnormality in my behavior. I get fixated on one nailpolish and dont wear anything else for weeks and weeks. Previously I would get bored so fast and want to change it up constantly. This new thing started with Obsessed that was reapplied to my nails for three weeks straight. Now I moved on to this beauty of a shade.

Feast your eyes on O.P.I.- Malaga Wine (Link).

Is it not just the perfect autumn shade? No actually perfect whatever the weather shade. I'd say its a  blood red and looks sultry dark in artificial light but outdoors some deep cherry tone are visible.  I have had 4 people ask what nailpolish I'm wearing- its one of those classy eye catchers.

The formula of this is smooth and easy to work with. I like O.P.I. brush as well because its not hard to maneuver and achieves a relatively professional looking manicure in a relatively painless way. O.P.I is definitely one of my very favorite polish brands. I really feel the chipping is minimal and its non streaky. 

Whats your favorite O.P.I shade?
I would love to expand the ever growing collection. I dont need to but I would love to.

October Favorites

You know what makes me a bit sad?
That I cant seem to get on a roll with regular three posts a week like I used to. Its bumming be out because I love to blog and to read your comments and to read others blogs and you know..all of it.

However November is going to be by far the most intense and crazy-busy work month I have ever had and preparing for it plus secretly worrying about not being able to pull it off (fear of failure is my biggest area of improvement) has left me with little less enthusiasm for the blog. So thank you so much if you are still around this neck of the woods. And thank you for commenting and sometimes sending a lovely email- it makes me smile a lot!

The sob story aside I do have October favorites to talk about.

Lets do the oldies but goodies first and leave the few newer bits to the end.

Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Grandest Grape (Link) always makes an appearance around this time of the year. Its my favorite easy to wear plum shade and you can do a sheer coat or layer it on for a dark but still not vampy autumn lip.  

I do feel that all I ever write about it lip products but thats what I use and enjoy the most so I cant really help it. The most used bright lip has definitely been Sephora Matte Lip Cream Stain in 03 Strawberry Kissed (Link). In reality this is such a summer shade but as I live in perpetual summer it doesnt really matter. Formula is magic- matte, doesn't flake, stays on for hours and hours probably days if I didnt remove it in the evening. This formula is something I trust 100% and never ever have to do a quick check after eating or drinking as I know my lipstick is still perfect and in place.

The oldest of this bunch is the Mac Sable eyeshadow (Link). Possibly my most favorite Mac eyeshow ever and currently being used most days of the week. Its a no brainer everyday plummy bronzy shadow that works amazing on green eyes. I'm sure everyone knows and has this already but if you dont..please explain why?

The new bits include Sephora Pro Smoky Liner brush #24 (Link). Laura told me I need it and well when has she ever been wrong about makeup? Such a fantastic brush for outlining the eye, smudging liner and especially for adding highlighter to the inner corners. 

If you live in UK I think the best place to find the next item is here- Natura Siberica Hand Mask. If you live in Estonia then it should be easy to find. I got it as a bday gift from my friends and I have used it every night ever since. It is the best night hand treatment I have had in ages. Made out of organic ingredients it smells like berries and you wake up with soft smooth nails and cuticles. Im bad at remembering to lotion my hands but slathering this on every evening before sleep has become a bit of a ritual I deeply enjoy now. Do check it out if you can find it!

Lastly 2 pairs of my favorite earrings this month and of course both New Vintage by Kriss and also both made out of mountain crystals. Somehow colorful jewelry has really not got my attention so I have kept things super simple with either of these dainty pieces. 

Let me know what your favorites have been? Please leave a link in comments if you have done a post so I can check it out.

Your Eyelids Look Weird

Sat down at the breakfast table this morning only to have the husband stare at me for a while.

He then stated:" Your eyelids look weird. "
Me: " What do you mean weird?"
Him: " Umm..They are much more colorful than normal!"
Me: " Umm.. yeah is that a bad thing?"
Him: " No. Its just weird!"

*insert blank face*

Well a weird look was not exactly what I was going for if Im honest.

Rewinding one more hour back I was sitting at my makeup table feeling fed up with all my brown,taupe,golden eyeshadows I use day in and day out. I opened the drawer to the less used shadows and first one that caught my attention was NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Kauai. I can rock a purple eyeshadow to work I thought to myself. Hence this face of the day was done.

Base: NARS Sheer Glow (Link) is still the everyday choice for now.
          Maybelline Eraser Eye Concealer (Link) still totally love this and do not understand why it is not sold in Dubai?
         
Blush: Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Exposed. Perfect nude almost not there blush. 

Eyes: Nars Duo Eyeshadow in Kauai (Link). The purple shade dusted all across the lid and then packed on towards the outer corner. Also added some purple onto the lower lashline.
         Clarins Crayon Khol Long-Lasting Eye Pencil in Intense Black (Link) smudged into the upper lashline. This one comes with a handy smudge brush at the other end.
          Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara (Link).

Lips: Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector in 01 (Link)

You see what a wuss I was being. So careful about not using a colorful lip and only the most natural blush I own.

I ask you to give me your honest opinion.
Do my eyelids look weird to you? Because I shall return right back to my safe neutral browns if you say they do (secretly I think I like this look).

Not a Morning Person

Early mornings are not a magical wonderful time for me..

I don't think of sunrise as the best part of the day..

I dislike when I don't have time to hit the snooze button

I'm not a delight to be around until I have a bite to eat and a cup of coffee..

I am not what you would call a morning person. I just like my bed and sleeping too much..

The reality is I do have to wake up, make myself presentable, try to start a day with a smile and head to the office on most days.

There is this trio that has really made the getting ready party rather enjoyable for the past few months. I had a sample of Clinique Moisture Surge (Link) and I wrote about it here. I adore this in the mornings and it works super well under makeup. Its gel like and refreshing, smells great and really packs a proper hydration punch.

 So when I saw this Clinique Travel Kit at the Duty Free few months back I had to snap it up. This added Clinique All About Eyes Serum (Link) and Moisture Surge Face Spray (Link) into my collection. I expected to like them based on the Moisture Surge on I was not disappointed. The eye serum with the cooling rollerball tip is especially good. It brightens eye area visibly, the cooling massage tip de-puffs fast and it really helps with the concealer to blend easy. Its super lightweight as well so I dont have to wait for a long time before starting with the makeup. Absolute gem of an eye serum if you ask me! Best one I have found for morning use.

The Face Spray is lovely as well. Fresh scent, fine mist and just a quick burst of moisture. I use it after makeup and I often carry it with me during the day.

I'm in love with this little trio and they make my mornings better. The Moisture Surge range seems to have a few more products and I'm super interested to try these as well. You can get the full set here or otherwise this set looks pretty good also.

Whats your favorite morning products? Have you tried the Moisture Surge ones?

Life Lately #10

I read Lauras post and immediately felt the urge to throw together my own. The winter in these sandy parts of the world means social life as well as work tempo pick up so I though I will pick up where I left off with my Life Lately posts. So I looked into the album on my phone and chose some moment to share with you. Left to right it goes something like this:

- A totally gorgeous Diptyque event I had the pleasure to attend. It was the release of 34 Collection that includes not only luxurious candles in hand crafted porcelain vessels but also stationary and perfume. I learned a lot about the brand and came away with a wishlist including their solid perfumes and elegantly designed room diffuser. This brand is just utter luxury!

- From a fancy penthouse event to eating street food on the grass. My favorite ever way to spend a Friday is back- Ripe market! Its fun, colorful farmers market full of yummy food, delicious drinks, pretty peonies and cool handicrafts. We had a delicious late breakfast from Taqado- I mean its never too early for some Huevos Rancheros right? Cant wait for Friday to make our way down to Zabeel Park again.

-We have a picture of my zoo for no other reason than..LOOK HOW CUTE THEY ARE!

- After an almost 3 month hiatus I'm back in gym. It sucks! I'm sore and weak and I dont understand why I ever stopped for 3 months? What was I thinking? Anyway there is a lot of cursing in the morning when I have to drag my hurting muscles out of the bed.

- Kind of carrying on from the gym motivation but also a mental work period ahead I love this quote about half-assing! It makes me smile every time I see it!

- bottom left we have a lot of greenery which might seem odd for desert. That is because I am in the Garden Center picking out plants. We moved into our place in spring and it soon got too hot to enjoy the garden but now..the most glorious months are ahead and I plan to get some cool furniture and more plants and spend as much time in our small garden as humanly possible.

- the most important thing about October is the birthday of our impossibly smart, cute, cuddly and perfect dog Mate. He is 5 years old now!! He has lived in 3 different continents and as my husband likes to say "if he could hold a pen he would be writing his memoirs at this point".  Oh and if you didnt know this yet..yes..yes we are the kind of people who buy a balloon for our dogs birthday! I love my Mate!

- lastly comes a work event which happened to be a Gary Barlow concert. He was nice but he ain't no Justin Timberlake. I also realized I know very few of his songs (I did give my all at least when Back For Good was played). I think this was more fun for people from the UK as they knew all the songs and everyone was singing along.

So a little overview of whats been going on. Hope you enjoyed and I will definitely be making this more of a regular thing again.

OOTD- How to Feel Like A Grown Up

This is my new fake it til you make it dress from ASOS.

Let me elaborate. 

On days I have meetings I'm not overly confident about or just generally woke up feeling a bit blah and in need of a boost in "Im-a-professional-grown-up-with-a-real-job" game this has become my go to outfit.

I actually listed this ASOS dress in my last Midi Wishlist. It was sold out for a while but is now back in stock, so take a look here if you would like to. Initially after arriving I wasn't wow'ed. The material is rather thick and I felt a bit frumpy in it. Somehow it grew on me and now I love it.  Especially after ordering the metallic belt for it(Link). I think the problem lay that it was a bit wide from the waist and didn't nip it in as much as I would have liked. That however is needed as the pleating of the skirt is generous and rather full.

It does have a deep V-neck but nothing crazy revealing if you are not blessed with bigger boobage.

The "grown up" outfit always includes heels and red lip of course. The great things with this dress is that white can be worn with any color accressories so I do tend to swap the heels according to the mood. Today I went with my Topshop pink heels which due to the fact they were on sale are now sold out. NARS Dragon Girl (Link) was the lipstick of choice.

Whats your confidence booster outfit? Before this one arrived mine used to always be a black dress.

The NARS Trinity

Yes these are old news but when the news is sooo good I think its ok we talk about them again. 

NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencils!

These are the favorite matte lipsticks in my modest stash ( I use the word modest liberally as you might guess). They are long lasting, don't bleed, beautiful matte finish, super pigmented, dont make my lips feel like desert..I could go on and on.

The range is vast in color choice but as I wear red lip most often mine are all from that color family. However they are all "totally" different as you will see below.

So starting from the left we have the darkest of the trinity called Cruella (Link). Described as scarlet red by the brand this is "prepare to be seen" kind of lip color. Blue based deep red that is so "sexy" if that can be used as a color description. I would say this is a color not for the faint hearted. If rocking a red is your thing then this is a must have for fall-winter especially.

Next up is my latest addition and one I had been chasing for a while. Dragon Girl (Link) seems to be constantly sold out in various online stores so it was a long time coming. Boy was it worth the wait! Vivid siren red is how NARS describes it. This one is also blue based (we all know those are the best to make those pearly whites shine) but with strong pink undertones- a proper bright cherry red. The shade just lasts and lasts for a good 5-6h through the day. If I would describe Cruella as "sexy" then Dragon Girl would be my more "glam" option.

Lastly comes Red Square (Link) which was actually the lipstick that converted me into the red-lips-during-day-time business. I bought this years ago when visiting my sister in London and it was a random purchase to be honest. Little did I know it will start a whole red lipstick hording episode of my life. If someone asks for my favorite red lippy the first one that comes to mind is Red Square. Bright orange red is what the official description reads. I think this is such a day appropriate shade. Red Square is proper orange based warm-toned and pretty bright. I love that it isn't neon but more of a "retro" shade that makes me feel like a vintage vixen ( I have good imagination okay!)

L-R: Cruella, Dragon Girl, Red Square

So there we are. 

My favorite NARS reds all lined up for you. 

Have you tried the Velvet Mattes? Whats your favorite shade? 

Maybe I should be branching out from the red category?

OOTD Just Another Manic Monday

I am not allowed to buy any new clothes for at least a month!
There I said it!

Now you have the right to make fun of me and call me names if I do.

Well obviously this skinny belt (Link) I already ordered from ASOS doesn't count. And maybe I can make an exception to these black Reiss heels(Link) and I have been looking at this midi skirt (Link) on Topshop for ages!

You see..you see what I am like? Very.easily.distracted. So I thought maybe if I put it out here I will feel more guilty once I find myself browsing the racks in Zara or clicking through ASOS on my lunch break. But if there is one thing I really love doing its outfit posts and those are the ones seriously lacking lately. As you seem to be liking my Instagram #ootd pics I thought we could make a deal of at least one outfit post a week possibly two. This in turn means I will do some serious shopping in my own wardrobe and things I wear wount be the latest season but I will do my best to find similar stuff and link it up.


This top is a bargain from Nordstrom Rack and bought while I was in New York. Its Kaci top by Walter Baker (Link). Its basic but makes everything look put together so easily.

Jeans are old and on their last leg. I mean the belt loop has broken and they are really washed out but I cant seem to find anything that fits me as well as these trusty Topshop Kristen high-waists. Why oh why did Topshop have to discontinue them? The only other ones I have liked are by JBrand but you know.. no new clothes for a month! (I am already regretting this a tiny bit)

Shoes are Vince Camuto and they are my most worn heels at the moment. A grey/pink neutral color and sensible heel- so easy to wear. I suggest these Topshop ones (Link) if you are looking for a similar pair. Let me alert you that the Topshop are on sale and I have the same cut in 2 different colors and they are perfect mid heel classics. So act fast!

Bag is Max Mara JBag and sunglasses Gucci Cat Eye Sunglasses.

So let me know if this kind of outfit post arrangement would work for you? Its all pretty basic stuff, things I wear to work daily but thats kind of what I like to see in other blogs.

I do have a little NARS related post ready for you as well so lets talk soon shall we.

Because banana pancakes

This is going to be another short and sweet post.

And maybe.. just maybe you can already enjoy these today!
As I will be at the office starting my work week all of you lovely people not living in Middle East will have the joy of a Sunday lie-in and pancake breakfast is the only way to go really.

I know everyone has their own favorite pancake recipes. In our house they change constantly and the latest favorite are these thick, gooey ones full of banana goodness. 

I like them so much I felt the need to share. You need:

125g of flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1 tablespoon of agava syrup or honey
1 teaspoon of vanilla
Cinnamon (I add lots.. you can be more modest)
sliced almonds

1 egg
240ml milk
3 crushed ripe bananas

You just need to mix the wet and the dry ingredients separately and then mix the dry into the wet slowly. Let is rise for 15min and get the pan hot.

However you do need a bit of patience (which I lack) as if you try to turn them around too early you will be left with a mush. Just wait til the cakes firm up a bit before flipping.

I would love to hear your favorite pancake recipes so please let me know.

Also have the most perfect Sunday x

Get In My Closet Slogan Tees

Get In My Closet Slogan Tees by thelauracarlson featuring white tops

Let me tell you a little story.

When I was 13years old my friend and I went to a t-shirt store to have slogans printed on our chosen styles. Mine was a skin tight cream white sleeveless turtleneck and I chose to have "Talk to the hand cause the face isn't listening" printed on the chest. Badass right! I sure as hell thought so and wore it everyday until the printing peeled off. You see things like slogans tees weren't all that accessible in Estonia and the choice was rather limited to colorful tops saying Love or Friendship on it. And that is just not cool enough for a 13year old Laura apparently! 

Anywaaaaay..

My love for slogan tees is still there only that nowadays I prefer to wear them under a blazer or tucked into a midi skirt if out of house. I have a few favorites to show you.

1. Cat hair is the new black- I mean this is my life summed up on a lovely grey tee. And if you dont agree with the statement you better not come visit our house. You can find it here.

2. Feline Meow-  I have been lusting over this one for years. There is numerous cheaper copies of it online but the original can be found here. I think this one would be a super versatile piece that doesnt only have to be worn while dog walking.

3. Don't Worry Be Yonce- yes well I have talked about the subject of Queen B before and the fact that I LOVE HER. I have loved her for many years and I would totally like to Be Yonce.

4. -5. Sweatshirts- Do I ever wear these out of home? Nope. But they are cute and I want one! Find the I Woke Up Like This here and the classic Shopping is My Cardio here.

Which ones do you like best? Do you ever wear statement tees? I'm really tempted between 1 and 2. 

Obsessed

That is actually the name of the nailpolish we are talking about today. 

Sephora Formula X in Obsessed (Link).

The name is ever so fitting as that is the exact feeling I have towards this dark dark moody merlot shade. You know I try to keep my nail polish excitement for my monthly Polished post but sometimes I just cant. Sometimes the need to share my love for trivial things like a perfect shade of polish is stronger than me. Do you know what I mean?

 I think I have ever done only one post dedicated to one nail polish and that was the Barry M Raspberry. But if any shade deserves a review on its own it has to be Obsessed.

It is a rich oxblood aka the most perfect autumn color. I picked it up randomly about 3 weeks ago and it has been pretty much the only polish I use. To my own surprise I didn't actually have anything similar in my stash so great feeling of accomplishment in addition joy from new polish- what more can a nail polish addicted girl as for?

Formula wise this is as great as the other Formula X polishes I have tried. Goes on smooth and two coats is enough. Stays chip free for good 4-5 days and well yes you know about the color selection if you have been to Sephora. Its insane!

To be totally honest I have no desire to reach for any of my pastels or brights! I just want to have short dark nails forever (or until I change my mind but whatever).

Next I have been eyeing Essie Bahama Mama and Sole Mate and Skating On Thin Ice-Land from O.P.I newest fall collection. Whats your favorite autumn shades?

September Favorites

I have never done a favorites post before.

I love reading those posts in other blogs but never started one here. At first I was under the impression I should try to find all new things every month that I love and lets be honest I invent enough reasons to buy new things so adding another "I need it for the blog" category to purchases didnt seem like a smart move. Well I have finally realized there are no rules about favorites post and I need to stop being a sissy and just write about whatever I have loved this month.

I will ease myself into it with makeup related items mainly so lets have a look shall we..

I have based this by standing in front of my dressing table thinking..which things made me feel really good this month or what did I reach for almost every day. NARS Sheer Glow foundation (Link) was the first pick because it has fast become one of my favorite foundations (still doesn't top Clarins Extra-Comfort but comes close second). The glow part and the sheer part are in perfect balance and it still has plenty of coverage even if not having a fantastic skin day. Pujab shade works perfect for me and it blends like a dream.

The choice of bronzer for a while now is The UNE Sun Minerals Matt Bronzer (Link). I'm definitely more into matt bronzers and there is no shimmer in this UNE one. Easy swipe all over my face to add warmth is all I need and that brings me to the Real Technique Blush Brush (Link). My absolute favorite brush for bronzer/powder/blush whatever else. Soo enjoy using this!

Two products I had read about for a while but purchased rather recently have both become firm favorites. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer (Link) formula is spot on- brightens enough but also has good coverage to really hide. But I would like to say the inventor of the packaging should not get a prize for it cause it sucks! Gets so dirty and ugly looking in a few weeks and doesn't do anything special in matters of applying make up. Bad bad idea Maybelline! Ohh but not a bad word can be said about the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (Link). In fact I think I have found my all time favorite eye pencil formula! Super soft to apply and smudge but once it sets its there for the long run. So many pretty shades available also. I'm loving the metallic taupe shade Underground at the moment.

Lipgloss of the choice has been Nyx Butter Gloss in Apple Strudel (Link) and I have not used any other perfume this month but my Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede (Link). I am absolute rubbish trying to describe a perfume. Seriously you dont want me to put you through this! I can only say I love smelling like blush suede. Who would have thought? Instead if you are wondering how Peony & Blush Suede smells I suggest you go read Lauras post about it. She is the queen of perfume reviews if you as me.

We are almost done. Only thing left to mention is one of my jewelery favorites this month and that these dainty K.I.S.S bracelets (Link) from NVbyK. I have a few rose quartz ones, an amethyst one and some black lava stone options. Love throwing them on in the morning for an understated look or mixing them with other bigger arm candy.

Whats your favorites in September? Makeup, books, food anything, I would love to know? 

The Rediscovery Of My Makeup

I did something extremely satisfying this morning.

I organized all my makeup. That means throwing away a whole bin full of products no one should let near their face anymore. I'm talking about that well loved but weirdly separated and smelly MAC Underage and those 3 dried up Loreal Super Liners and many other things I didn't know existed in my drawers.

It also means I rotated my daily makeup to some fall appropriate shades. You see I love seasons and I aint gonna stop loving them just because I happen to live in the desert where seasons vary from hot to hotter with occasional humid thrown in. Its autumn in my heart so bring on the dark lips and all that comes with it.

While all this organizing was going on I remembered a blog post from a few weeks ago I saw on Bonjour Luce. Her post called Forgotten, but still loved inspired me dig out some old favorites that have not been getting the love they deserve.

You know when you love makeup as much as we do (read: own enough for numerous lifetimes and then some) even the stuff you really love doesn't always get used. So as of today these five products have been moved to the front line and I intend to reach for them more often.

Starting from left to right we have:
Make Up Store Microshadow in Flamenco (Link)- I have had this for years and I used to love it. Its an intense purple with a subtle sheen that really compliments my green eyes. I wear it smudge on the lash line rather that all over lid(if I had more skillz it would look pretty all over as well I am sure). Its shameful but I had totally forgotten I have this. Make Up Store shadows are great quality.

NARS blush in Gina (Link)- I was all over it when I first got it. This is the only orange toned blush I own and it looks great on. It is now back on top of the blush drawer and I intent to show it more love in the coming months.

Burberry Sheer Eye Shadow in Pale Barley(Link)-  a bit of a cult product but for all the right reasons. The soft, finely-milled texture that applies ever so smoothly and the flattering pale brown shade that works as a base for any look. Im actually really excited to start using this more.

Mac Sheertone blush in Coygirl- this is my first ever Mac blush and the only one I have ever hit the pan on. It goes brilliant when wearing purple shadows as its pink but has a lilac undertone. I used to think it was the prettiest thing ever created. I think its time to rock some pinky mauve cheeks for the autumn. Unfortunately this is discontinued now.

Dior Rouge Creme De Gloss in 875 Delicious Plum- this was a gift from my sister a few years ago. I remember I was too intimidated by the glossy deep plum shade back then so I never wore it in public but my lipstick habits have come long way since. Its such a season appropriate shade and even though I'm still not hugely into glossy lips I think I will give it a go. I cant seem to find it anywhere online so I'm guessing its discontinued also.

If any of you have a suggestion for an awesome matte plum shade please let me know? I actually need to fill that gap.

It was really fun shopping my stash.
Have you rediscovered any of you old favorites recently?

FOTD- Makeup artists are magic

Now I love makeup that is not a big revelation. I also like doing my makeup but my skills are rather limited. I have semi mastered a winged eyeliner and can blend two similar color brown eyeshadow together but every time I attempt something smokier its a fail.

This is the reason I love having my makeup done by professionals occasionally. I do get anxious if it is someone new I dont know cause what if I wount like it. Tastes are different after all. But there is a few makeup artists I trust without a question and one of them also happens to be a good friend of mine. 

So last Friday before me and Diana (click on her name to go see her blog) went out for dinner she did my makeup and I love love loved it. I mean like "wish I didnt have to wash my face ever again" kind of loved it.

 

I haven't used any filters or retouching on these photos and they are made in natural light. The fact that my skin looks so flawless is not because it actually does- it because Diana worked her magic on it.

So this is how it came together in case you were wondering.
She started by using Bioderma Sebium Pore Refiner (not pictures but you can get it here) on my t-zone so reduce the shine and smooth the texture.

Primer: Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer & Brightener (Link)
Foundation: Mac Face & Body Foundation (Link) -absolutely loooove the look of this stuff. Must add to my foundation collection asap
Concealer: Diana mixed two MUFE concealers together the Full Cover (Link) and the Lift Concealer (Link)
Powder: Jane Iredale Purepressed Base Mineral Powder in Warm Sienna (Link)

Contour: Jane Iredale Purepressed Base Mineral Powder in Riviera (Link)for a very light and natural contouring
Blush: Mac Peaches (not pictured but can be found here)
Highlighter:  oh this is my favorite part. NARS Illuminator in Hot Sand (Link) and Jane Iredale Quad Bronzer in Moonglow (Link). When she swiped the Moonglow on top of blush I was kind of floored. So soo pretty! I kind of REALLY NEED both of these products in my life sooner rather than later. Especially Moonglow as Diana said you can also use it as eyeshadow or bronzer.

Eyeshadow: She used three Jane Iredale Purepressed shadows to create the brown smokey effect and these were: Peach Sherbet, Cappuccino and Double Espresso (Link). Then came the super pretty Mac pigment in Copper. Oh the shade and the sheen of this is just amazing.
Eyeliner: L'Oréal Paris Super Liner Gel in black (Link)
Mascara: Kanebo Sensai Mascara 38 C (Link). I want this! Definitely went into must buy list cause its a brilliant mascara.  

We decided to go super natural and non shiny on the lips so it was Bobbi Brown Sandwash Pink (Link) that fit the bill.

The two conclusions I would draw from this are

1. I need to invest in some Jane Iredale products. They are great! 
2. I wish Diana would do my makeup every day because I felt like a million bucks.

Do you enjoy having your makeup done or do you prefer always doing it yourself? 

I'm Feeling The Love

I believe I have mentioned more than once that September is my bday month. Together with the general merriment of cake, bubbly and hugs came some very very lovely birthday presents.  

So I thought I will show you one that I got from two fantastic ladies who you all should know well. When you have friends like Laura and Simone who besides being hilarious and sweet also have exceptionally good taste perfection happens..

What you see here is a "omg-I-cant-get-over-how-cool" Sophie Hulme pouch that they so perfectly picked up to match my new handbag (Link).  I feel ever soo chic pulling it out of my bag where it houses business cards, a lipstick choice of the day, my planner and keys. All those little bits that go missing in the big tote. I have also worn it as a clutch because look how pretty! It is so sleek and in that thick textured leather again with beautiful simple gold hardware clasp. I am telling you- Sophie Hulm is just too much to handle for me right now!

And inside the pouch I found these two beauties! Of course Simone and Laura knew to choose two shades I dont have anything similar to and I am so excited to add them to the collection.

MAC Amplified Creme Lipstick in Vegas Volt (Link)- this perfect wearable coral shade pulls all the right kinds of orange on me. Its much more toned down than my bright corals and I love it. If I do my little sugar scrub + lip balm action in the evening my lips are prepped and Amplified formula works amazing on me. If I fail to do that I find it get patchy on the dry bits very fast. Vegas Volt as a shade is perfect. Its interesting that if you look at swatches online it looks very much more neon on some people. You can see how it looks on me below.

Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Sandwash Pink (Link)- this is just a perfect nude.  Im not hugely into the beige nudes so this one is a beaut. It has all the right pink undertones and it looks pretty much like my lip color just amped up. The formula is super creamy and moisturizing and the shade makes your lips look so polished. This is my first ever Bobbi Brown lipstick and if they are all as good as Sandwash Pink I am seriously missing out.

As a bonus trivia for you- apparently this is the lipstick Kate Middleton wore on her wedding day! I mean if its good enough for a princess..

 Laura had a camera on hand as I was opening my present. Could I BE any more excited?

If you have any other Bobbi Brown lipsticks shades you love please let me know? I think I will have to investigate next time I am in the mall..

OOTD All New Everything

I have a little outfit of the day for you and it involves mainly new things. 

Aren't those outfits just the best?

I have written before how there is a hole in my wardrobe that only a faux leather pleated midi skirt can fill. I saw my sister rocking hers while we were in New York and it fueled my need for it even further. So it was meant to be when I spotted one in the new Zara collection (Link). There is some seriously dreamy midis in Zara right now like this green one and this one. I love the weighty feel of the faux leather and the perfect midi length. This is something I would totally wear with both flats and heels and it will add a lot of character to any outfit. Im so so happy to finally have it in my midi collection.

 

The tshirt is from Old Navy (Link) and its super lightweight. I got a few of them in different colors and slogans and I do suspect they will not last too many washes but it was cheap so I will enjoy it while I can. Not much else to say. It is just a tshirt after all.

 

Ahh yes and the bag! The "all my bag dreams have come true" Sophie Hulme Ziptop Bowling Bag (Link). My wonderful husband got this for my bday and I'm just so so over the moon. It is simply the most perfect day to day bag I have ever seen. Its so spacious, fits my laptop and manage to make anything I wear look a bit cooler. The leather is thick and textured which is my favorite look. Dont even get me started on the gold hardware and the long strap so you can also wear it cross body- the list can go on and on. 

This has now fueled my lust for Sophie Hulme and next on my hit list would be one of her Mini Envelope Bags. I mean how dreamy is this leopard version or this one? 

Whats on your bag lust list at the moment?

Polished - August & September

Is it wrong that I am super excited to show you my latest nail polish favorites? 

Its been ages since the last nail related blogpost but I know you didn't think I haven't been hoarding polishes in the mean time. Of course I have. Its a problem or a gift whichever way you want to look at it. I prefer to believe its normal to keep buying more and more polishes.

I wish it felt a bit more like autumn here so I would feel like whipping out more of my burgundys and maroons. Instead we are still in high +30c so maybe next month.

First one that has been on my nails a lot in past weeks is this bright purple Essie Sittin' Pretty (Link). You can find this vivid lavender in Essie Neons 2014 collection. Its not an everyday goes with everything shade for me as I do feel I have to take it into account when choosing an outfit. That said I still like it! Perfect change for all of reds and pastels I normally gravitate towards.

Oh did I say I like pastels? Now this is actually really a problem..because I picked up PiCture pOlish Sky and was soo soo soooo excited. OMG what an unusual and pretty pastel blue! What a great choice you have made Laura! Came home, painted my nails immediately only to realize that it is pretty much EXACTLY the same as Barry M Huckleberry which I of course already own. I swear it looked different in the store!! Well I have come to terms with it now, I bought something I already had just in a different bottle.What else is new..but its pretty right?

Another shade I have in 20 different variations is this type of purple/pink but I got a new one anyway. I think this would be the autumn shade of this selection. Sephora Formula X in Riotous (Link)- a dark magneta if I must describe it somehow. I have to say even with my normal base and top coat this baby stays chip free for 5 days on me. Which kind of makes me love the new Formula X line. This is my favorite work appropriate shade for the past weeks.

I have been holding back to get the Formula X The System but I might cave soon.

Everyone keeps praising so my curiosity is peaked. Have you tried it? Is it worth it?
Whats your current nail polish loves?

If I could only buy one brand of makeup..

it would be NARS forever and ever.

I have yet to try a product from them that did not deliver. Lipgloss, lipstick, eyeshadow, concealer, blush- if I named my top 3 favorites in any of these categories NARS would get a warmhearted mention. Actually I would just do a standing ovation all day long if that gives a strong enough statement for my everlasting love.

With this intro out of the way can you imagine my excitement to visit the NARS Flagship Boutique at 413 Bleecker Street in New York City. I was basically hyperventilating. 

I had my shopping list pre-made in my head (it would have been way to dangerous to go without it as then one might feel like she needs it ALL) and I managed to only add one impulse purchase so I would say I did damn well.

Sheer Glow foundation (Link) has been on my radar for ages and I'm so happy to report I love it. It has the glow and the coverage and the natural finish it promises. Even though its meant for normal or normal-to-dry skin types my combination skin gets on with it great.

Velvet Matte Lip Pencils have been mentioned on this blog too many times but I still did not own Dragon Girl (Link). If you happen to have lived in darkness until now these are incredibly pigmented, creamy and totally matte sticks that do not bleed and last for hours. Dragon Girl has been described as Siren Red and I think that suits the color well. I totally own Red Square (an organy red) and Cruella (a scarlet red) but Dragon Girl is like..totally different you know! And I like needed it more than anything in the world!

And I was supposed to be done with lip products at this moment. 

But oh Schiap I couldn't leave you behind (Link). I just could not. You Semi Matte beauty you! It is clear why this lipstick is one of NARS cult classics. Its long wearing and full coverage and bright as it can be. I think the mattness of it makes the brightness super modern and wearable and I'm so glad I caved and purchased this. Its perfect just lightly dabbed on or worn straight from the bullet for a full on look-at-my-lips action.

Venturing on I promised myself I will only buy one of the new Dual-Intensity Eyeshadow(Link) and I took that decision very seriously. So seriously that I spent 20min umm-ing and ahh-ing and discussing with the lovely sales assistant to decide which one is the shade I can't live without. In the end the battle was between the Himalia (on the right) and Dione (on the left). As I was starting to feel there might be something wrong with me because who takes choosing an eyeshadow with this level of concentration I just picked Himalia, a shimmering topaz shade and quickly made my way to the cashier. 

I'm not gonna lie I was pretty sad later that I didn't just go ahead and get both. But good things were coming my way. More precisely Simone was coming back from Paris and had picked up Dione ( a dreamy champagne beige) for me! Talk about fate (and super awesome generous makeup loving friends)!

Both shadows are a dream to apply and their true perfection in my opinion is when used wet. They last for the whole day and might just be my favorite eyeshadows at the moment.

There will be some face of the day posts with both eyeshadow soon. For now I just made a quick photo for you guys to see Schiap in all its bright glory.

Whats your favorite NARS products? 

I would love to make a new shopping list as so very soon we can buy it in Dubai. Be still my beating heart!

Feels like Autumn

I'm so happy I got my taste of autumn last week in Estonia. The transition from summer to autumn with its crisp air but sunny days is one of my favorites.

I was also weirdly satisfied about the possibility to wear layers and booties and even whip out my old coat. It was the most perfect weather to enjoy before returning to the crazy heat and humidity of Dubai.

So here comes a little outfit post from Estonia. We went for lunch and a leisurely walk in the park. I wore my H&M coat which is a few years old. For such a great piece the H&M price was a bargain. Its the cut of a classic mac but in a thicker material. I do really love this lighter mac on ASOS (Link) at the moment. Or you could get a similar look with this double breast wool coat(Link). Camel beige must be my favorite color for autumn coats.

Jeans are my much loved Topshop Kristen jeans. My absolute favorite black skinnys that Topshop of course discontinued. I wish I had known this as I would have bought numerous pairs of back ups. These are on their last leg and it makes me very very sad. Topshop has loads of different styles but non of them fit as well as the high waist Kristen. I am on the lookout for new black skinnys. Do let me know if you have spotted excellent ones?

 

Then we have the Lindex striped tshirt which is just a great basic. Not much else to say about it. Generally I find some nice casual tops on ASOS (Link). Bag is my new Marc by Marc Jacobs "Washed Up The Nash" Crossbody Bag in raspberries (Link). 

What was I most excited to wear in Estonia? My Aldo Cedrina ankle boots of course! These are from two years ago so currently out of stock but keep on eye out for them here. I tend to not bring them with me to Dubai as the wear time here would be a few weeks only and instead I give them all the love they deserve whenever I am in Estonia. Its a perfect heel which I can handle for the whole day and everybody knows leopard print is my favorite basic. I you need a pair of leopards in your life asap I found a dreamy (but expensive) Michael Kors option available (Link) or a cheaper version in River Island (Link).

Whats your favorite item to wear in the autumn?
Do you have something you are itching to pull out of the wardrobe the moment weather cools down?

Im back to light summer dresses and sandals now so let me vicariously live through you..