M.A.C - 5 terrible products

Everyone who is everyone knows that M.A.C products can be totally 100% overpriced but can they be 100% over rated? 

YES! Oh my good god yes they can!

But it's so hard to tell whats good and whats bad  with everyone and their mothers brown nosing MAC constantly! 

We are constantly spoon fed that 'MAC can't do no wrong' and 'oh ALL their products are amazing'

Well I'm here to tell you, whilst MAC have some undoubtedly great products, they also have some that are the overpriced scrapings from the bottom of the barrel.

So here are 5 products from MAC that I steer WELL clear of.

Number 5

M.A.C Pro Longwear foundation 

Last year I scrimped and I saved to get myself a bottle of this utter shite.

I paid money i didn't have in order to buy this. I seen this all over instagram and the likes.

This bottle was made out to be the nectar of the gods.

As I suffer with Rosacea & also very pale, I always have to ask the floor staff a million questions regarding foundation. The woman who worked in M.A.C assured me that it's perfectly fine for pale & sensitive skin and that it would suit any skin type.

BULL SHIT

When I got home, I threw this on my face, the colour matched perfect and I was delighted, the coverage wasn't the best though. But after an hour the foundation turned orangey,dry and patchy EVEN with moisturising and priming beforehand.. The staying power is awful too. So if there is any pale ladies reading, stay well away from this secret tango foundation.

Number 4

M.A.C Nail Lacquer

I don't get the hype...AT ALL

This time I learnt my lesson with the foundation and didn't buy any varnishes. But I have tried SO many and my god the quality is awful. Some peal, Some crack, some are so painfully translucent it annoys the living shite out of me. 

I haven't found a MAC nail varnish that is of high quality at all.

Another over priced and over rated product.

Number 3 

M.A.C mascara

I have tried loads, if not all of these and they are all the same.

Clumpy, cheap and dreadful!

Every time I used them so many of my eyelashes would fall out. I have NO idea how M.A.C could actually be OK with selling these to the general public. If you love your lashes and don't want to look like a scary doll then stay away for the love of god.

Number 2

Pro Longwear Concealer 

Why is this being ranted and raved about?

Honestly I do not get it at all!

As I have quite bad asthma I have very dark circles under my eyes. The woman in M.A.C told me it was the utter best for dark circles exactly like mine. I went home and looked it up all over the Internet and everyone said the same thing.

But my god! I've never tried such an expensive heap of shite in all my days.

There are a million and one concealer's that are of extremely high quality and inexpensive and THIS is not one of them. Utter disappointment 

Number one

M.A.C Prep + Prime eyeshadow primer

...Is MAC honestly having a laugh?

I couldn't believe how absolutely AWFUL this primer is.

Please don't get brainwashed by the whole ''Oh but its MAC it must be good'' thing...no.

This creases your eyeshadow up until no end! And to make things worse it actually makes your eyeshadow wear off even more! I hated everything about this product. 

You're own spit would probably work better as a primer.

Do not waste your money, you'll be sorely let down.

So what did you think? Do you share the same hatred for these products OR do you thoroughly enjoy them? Is there any other MAC products you think are over rated?

Let me know!

(THIS POST WAS A REQUEST FROM A READER WHO WISHES TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS )

The Parma Violet

Top 5 MAC lipstick & lipliner combo's

Does anyone else have problems looking for a lipstick & lip liner that actually work together? Sometimes when you walk into MAC you may be a bit overwhelmed with the sheer amount of choice and won't even know where to begin?!

...If so, make a cup of tea, put on your pyjamas, and nom on some chocolate as I bring you down the list of my all time favourite MAC lipstick & Lip liner combinations.

At number 5 we have...

Ruby Woo & Cherry 

If you're looking for the ultimate 50's matte lip then look no further.

There is no duo quite like this one. With amazing staying power, you wont need to top this lipstick up all night! One application is all it needs..Unless maybe you're kissing the face off the guy next to you.

In at number 4 its..

Viva glam 2 & Stone

I adore this duo. If you're feeling something a bit more ''natural fox''  then this is the combination for you. Perfect for creating that Kim K  look that everyone is crazy for!

Next up is..

Kinda Sexy & Whirl

Now this is your perfect pinky nude collab. Think Kylie Jenner but hotter cause YOU'LL be wearing it ;) 

Not everyone can pull off ''kinda sexy'' as a lipstick alone, but paired up with ''whirl'' it pretty much suits everyone! So pucker up gorgeous!

At number 2 its none other than..

Heroine & Nightmoth

Even that name combo is perfect!

I adore dark lips, I usually wear dark lips all year round but THIS has to be the best dark lip duo to ever be created! I find this best suited to very pale people (like myself) BUT all skin tones can pull this off just as well!

I find the electric violet tone in this lipstick tends to make teeth appear whiter and eyes brighter. You'll be a total knockout 

And finally, in at the number one spot its...

Velvet Teddy & Spice 

Now I know this might seem a tad generic, but you really cannot go wrong by combining these two. This look will take you from morning to night. Perfect for literally any occasion.Perfect for almost any skin tone too. So if you're a MAC virgin, and looking for the perfect lip but don't quite know where to start...most DEFINITELY star with this one

Do you have any other combo's that you find you cannot live without? Let me know! 

The Parma Violet

The flops of 2014

Welcome to my flops of 2014!

I think its only fair seeming as I posted about my favourites from 2014 that made me go wow here, I thought it was only fitting that I showed you a few products from 2014 that made me go...meh.

Not all products are 'bad' but I have had some bad experiences with some of them. So what collections and products did I feel didn't meet the hype? 

In no particular order we have...

MAKEUP REVOLUTION LIPSTICKS

Although I do love Makeup revolution and I adore their eyeshadow and highlighters, I feel that I was immensely let down with their lipsticks. After seeing some amazing reviews online I decided to buy myself some, after dying with excitement for them to show up, when they did I was immensely let down. They seem super oily and greasy with little or no staying power on most lipsticks, and they made my lips SUPER chapped and even made them bleed!.Although I do absolutely adore the brand and all their other makeup products, I'm afraid this was a total and complete let down. Sorry makeup revolution!

But do check out their fantastic eyeshadow palettes! I can never fault them! Simply beautiful

LOREAL COLLECTION PRIVEE COLOUR RICHE NUDES

When I seen the ad's for this collection, I'm not going to lie, I was really excited.I ran down to my local Boots and bought myself 'Eva's Nude' as it was the one that would suit me the most. After coming home and comparing shades with my friends we realised that most if not all of the shades look nearly the exact same when applied. I was gutted! These lipsticks almost come out like a sheer lipgloss rather than a nude lipstick. I LOVE L'Oreal and had utter confidence in them regarding these lippies, but unfortunately they were a let down, BUT after releasing their 'pure reds' collection I can forgive them because it is FABULOUS! If you are looking for the perfect red, then pick up 'Blakes red' 

THE BALM WHATS YOUR TYPE MASCARA

Now before I start with this one, this is NOT a bad mascara.

I am blessed with naturally long & thick lashes and I always want a mascara that does them justice, unfortunately this does not.

BUT This would be perfect for those with shorter or thinner lashes as it gives super definition. I adore the packaging, super cheeky and very 1950's. I adore every product from The Balm but this just didn't suit me. Again, this is NOT a bad product.

Its not you....its me...

MAC ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW COLLECTION

There is absolutely nothing here that made me go ''I JUST HAVE TO HAVE THAT''.

2014 was MAC's ''Limited Edition'' year.

There seemed to be Limited edition this Limited edition that every two seconds, and I think that MAC really overlooked the product quality and packaging immensely. This was the one collection I was really looking forward to, but I felt so underwhelmed that I didn't buy anything from this collection.

Just me?...

LADY MILLION EAU MY GOLD

This ad seemed to be on telly every two god damn seconds. I seen so much about it online AND the men's original One Million smells so good I decided to take a sniff of the stuff.

Great bottle. great name... same generic overpriced perfume smell

Do not waste your money. It smells like every other generic perfume out there.

So what do you think? Do you share the disappointment? Or did I leave out something from 2014 that seemed like the biggest let down of the century? Let me know!

The Parma Violet

My Christmas Wishlist

1. Miles of Mac - Urban Outfitters €40
2. Ted Baker Faked To Perfection Rose Gold Nails - Boots-  €10
3. Charlotte Tilbury Wonder Glow - Brown Thomas - €42.00
4. The Blam-MAry Lou Manizer Highlighter - Cloud10beauty.com - €19.00
5. MAC twig - MACstores - €19.50
6. Ted Baker Petra small Crystal bow tote - €235.00
7. Instyler (Pink) Instyler.ie & Boots - €120
8. MAC Warm Palette - MAC stores - €75.00 
9. Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar - €65.00

Seeming as its getting closer and closer to Christmas I decided to make a little wishlist! I'm not expecting to get any of these this Christmas (But a girl can dream right?)

Everythign here is a tad pricey but sure it's Christmas isnt it?

I think my number one want from this whole list has to be the instyler!It WILL be mine,oh yes, it will be mine!

Are any of my items on your list?

The Parma Violet 

My November Wishlist

Helloooo!

Sorry I've been M.I.A for about 2 weeks, the internet situation in the household is mayhem!

Anyway! Woah , hello Winter, you really came in with a bash! And this winter I'm REALLY loving Dark berry and nude tones!

1: MAC Twig lipstick - €19.50 

2: Venus palette, Limecrime - $42.00

3:Michael Kors Jet Set Saffiano Tote in Claret - €237.00

4: 22' Black hair extentions 

5:Real Techniques Brush set - €30.00

6:Makeup Revolution Chiocolate bar palette - €8.50

7:Beige Fedora hat, River Island - €33.00

8:Macbook pro - €929.00

9:Black suede block heel ankle boots, River Island - €65.00

Autumn / Winter lipsticks 2014

Lipstick has slowly become my mini obsession over the past year. I'm most fond of dark colours, so I am beyond delighted that Autumn is here so I can wear these gorgeous colours all over my face. So here are my most favourite (and cheap) , pretty little lippies for Autumn/Winter 

Excuse the messy Wet N Wild caps..I am a monster

So from left to right we have..

• Cherry Bomb - Wet n Wild
• Cinamon Spice - Wet n Wild
• Sugar Plum Fairy - Wet n Wild
• Roxo - amplified - Pedro Lourenco for MAC - Limited Edition
• Viva Glam 1 - Matte - MAC
• Goddess of the Sea - Cremesheen - Alluring Aquatic - Limited edition
• Kooky - MUA LUXE - Lip lacquer 
• Reckless - MUA LUXe - Lip lacquer 

This autumn seems to be all about deep matte reds and purples, which i am obviously loving!

Swatches from left to right, as above!

Excuse the messyness, my dog ruined it with his cute paws and devilish ways

Wet n Wild cosmetics available in Dunnes Stores & Penneys nationwide

Mac from MAC @ Brown Thomas Dublin

you can order MUA LUXE from here

The Parma Violet

My August wish list

Good afternoon everyone! And wow what a busy evening I have ahead of myself!

I am actually going to be attending an evening celebrating the many years of Vaseline in the fabulous Morgan hotel in Temple Bar. And I'm super excited!

Now this is just a list of everything that made me go WOW this August! Nothing too fancy about this blog post, just a wee bit of lusting fun! 

1. Yves Saint Laurent - Touche Eclat 
2. MAC -  Ruby woo
3. MAC - Spiked
4. Urban Decay - Pulp Fiction Collection ...wow
5. Anastasia Beverly Hills dipbrow
6. Crux and Crow - Tie Dye dress
7. Lancome - Hypnose Eau de Parfum 

The Parma Violet

Is volcanic ash the next big thing in skincare?

Good morning! And yes you heard that right!

Volcanic ash or Charcoal has been used in skincare products for many years, but now, there has been a sudden explosion *Pardon the pun* on the skincare scene.

Is it any good? Is it expensive? If so, are they're any dupes? Well, lets find out shall we?

First of all we have MAC's Mineralize volcanic ash exfoliator. This baby can be used as an exfoliating scrub, or as a lovely warm face mask. So what did I think?

When I used this product, I used it as a face scrub as using anything as a facemask usually tends to make me break out into awful spots.

It feels great when applied on the skin, the gorgeous sugar crystals get right to work when you give your face a good aul thorough scrub. I must admit it doesn't smell like the nicest daisy but it works miracles. 

When washing off I found it left my skin, super soft and insanely moisturised!

I must say,I was truly shocked, my skin usually breaks out if I try any new skincare products, but this made my skin baby soft with a healthy glow. The only set back is the price! This retails at a whopping 30EURO! 

So...Is there a dupe?

YES! And it's SO much more affordable! Introducing Boot's own brand - Teatree & Witch Hazel Charcoal facemask and facescrub 

This product I find smells nicer and works just as well, if not better!

These bad boys will save you a pretty penny and save your pretty face.

These deep cleansing gifts from god are to be seriously tested for yourselves.

At 5.50EURO each these gorgeous lifesavers should definitely be a staple in every girls skincare routine. Especially if you suffer from blackheads/acne.

These are currently on offer in boots for 3 for 2! so run down and get your lovely mitts on these two fabulous products!

The Parma Violet

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Thin lips? Transform them using this age old trick.

Everyone seems to want big, plump, juicy lips right? But sadly some of our gene pools aren't kind enough to bless us with Angelina's pout. BUT Makeup has blessed us with the tools to fake it! I myself have very thin lips but I plump them up using this age old, but VERY useful trick!

1. Simply Grab your lipstick of choice ( I chose Viva Glam by M.A.C)
2. Grab your most shimmery eyeshaddow you have (make sure its white/silver/nude, I chose 'Bootycall' from the Naked 2 palette)
3. Simply dab your chosen shaddow to the middle of your bottom lip and youre done!

Yep, seriously..it is THAT easy!

P.S.. i am VERY sorry about the short post and terrible pictures, on quite a harsh time limit today!

But I do hope you enjoy this short but very useful post! Try it! you'll never look back!

Do you have any useful makeup tips? Simply comment below or email me @ theparmavioletblog@gmail.com , thank you!

The Parma Violet

Upcoming collections from MAC and Urban Decay!

Now, we all know that MAC have been KILLIN IT this year with their ballsy and new collections and collaborations! 

Believe it or not! Urban Decay seem to be following in their footsteps! With an extremely exciting Pulp Fiction themed collection! This is so so exciting! Urban Decay has always had unbelievable makeup but i think this will be the cherry on top! So here is the preview that I found!

Pulp Fiction by Urban Decay

Behold!

Id that eyeshaddow quad just for that packaging! 

Pulp Fiction is most definitely one of my favorite films ever and this is sending me wild!

I sadly have no further information available on this collection as of yet but I will keep you posted!

NEXT we have

 MAC's Simpsons collaboration 

In my opinion, I think this collection looks cheap and tacky

MAC had this in the palms of their hands and they ruined it! The packaging is horrible and cheap looking,it looks like something you'd grab in the pound shop or Dealz! And to my absolute disgust, they wont be selling lipsticks! So this collection is a no no for me! Launching in August/September this is very disappointing

MAC Rocky Horror Picture Show Collection

I am nearly peeing myself with excitement over this!

Now THIS is the collection for me. This has SO much potential and I really hope they pull it off! And a little birdy told me a whole load of lipsticks will be available! Amazing!!

Kinky Boots by MAC

Apparently this is only going to be a lipstick and lip glass WITHOUT Limited edition packaging!

I don't know too much about this Limited Edition release as the idea seems to only be thrown around at the moment, but id say were in for the most glittery lips we've ever had.

Do you have any more info about any new Limited Edition releases? If so comment below or mail me at theparmavioletblog@gmail.com, thank you

The Parma Violet

My July wishlist

Good evening!

And what a horrible washout July is starting out to be!!That is why it's the perfect time to lay in bed and make wishlists. To be honest I'm obsessed with making lists, so this is orgasmic for me!
So here we have some of my most wanted pretty thinggys this July!

Also if anyone is interested I have set up a new Facebook page dedicated to my blog, Click here to visit my new Facebook page

1. Estee Lauder - Double wear foundation:€36.50 I've wanted this foundation for what seems forever! Whenever i see anyone wearing it it makes their skin look SUPER smooth and dreamy!
2. Guerlain - Insolence Eau de Parfume:€60.00 I first found this perfume in Paris in Epcot Disneyworld Florida in 2006, and I was blown away! The scent is so beautiful its beyond worlds, It smells like you're wearing Parma violets...Which I obviously love very very much! Such a statement perfume!
3. MUA-Undress your skin highlighter :€5.00 I've heard nothing but great things about this baked highlighter powder from MUA. The design is very similar to that of MAC's extra dimension skin finish!
4. Limecrime-Velvetines (Salem):$20.00 Every time I look at Limecrimes makeup it makes me die! It is all so beautifully packaged and the Velvetines collection is so original, with one of a kind colours..you cant beat it!
5. MAC-Nightmoth lipliner :€16.00 A cult classic, This gorgeous deep berry lipliner makes any look super vampy and sexy
6. Crosley-Record player: €169.00 I've needed a new record player for the longest time and I've had my eye on this powder blue player for a good while now, shame about that price tag though
7. Pretty Zombie Cosmetics-3 witches matte lipstick :$12.00 A relatively new makeup brand that people should keep their eye out for! These lipsticks go on wet but dry completely matte, with stunning colours and decent prices, these lipsticks are made to stand out! Look at their gorgeous collection Here
8. Ikea-Malm dressing table: €100.00 Unfortunately i do not have a dressing table of my own,and that makes me so sad! But I will be saving up for this gorgeous MALM dresser from Ikea, with a glass top and pullout makeup drawer for only 100 EURO, whats not to love?
9. Shoebakery shoes $345.00 ..Yes I am aware of the ridiculous price of these shoes, but are YOU aware of how gorgeous they are? Look at them! Totally original AND hand made AND you can get your own custom cake style shoes! EVEN wedding shoes to match your wedding cake! How's that for having your cake and eating it? Want to look at their amazing creations? Simply click here!

Look how gorgeous that MALM dresser from Ikea looks! (Mirror, plant pot and Hollywood lights also available From IKEA)

If you have any queries or want me to review a product simply comment below or mail me on theparmavioletblog@gmail.com OR Message me on Facebook (theparmaviolet) Thank you.

The Parma Violet

MAC Osbournes + Pedro Lourenco MAC review

IT'S SUMMER..

And one of the most anticipated MAC collaborations hit shops and the web!
And I'm pretty sure everybody nearly wet themselves with sheer excitement!

The MAC Osbournes collab with Mother and Daughter Kelly and Sharon Osbourne, was for me, the most exciting thing in makeup! And I knew I just HAD to grab at least SOMETHING from this collection! Although I do think the Sharon side of the collection is lacking slightly, the hype seems to be all about Kelly's side of the collection, and its very clear to see why. Kelly's collection seems to be very pastel/60's nude inspired, where as Sharon's collection is a more toned down version.

I feel like I'm the only one that adores the  Pedro Lourenco collection for MAC! Maybe because it was overshadowed by the release of the Mac Osbournes collection but who knows, this collection is sophisticated,simple and sexy! Another collection that was screaming out at me from all angles. So here Is what I picked up from these two fabulous MAC collections:

First of all, I keep the boxes from every piece of makeup I get, Im addicted, Im a box hoarder. 

These are the two pretties I got from the collection, I opted for lippies from both collections.

The packaging is to die for! Look at that casing! So pretty and girly!

The Pedro Lourenco casing is simple and sexy! A Matte black case with gold accents. The MAC logo is instead placed on the lower half of  the case  instead of the traditional placing which i love!

Kelly Osbournes lilac/Pastel packaging (inspired by her statement hair) is amazingly beautiful! I would nearly buy this lippie JUST for the packaging! So summery and girly! 

The colours I chose were Roxo and Kelly Yum Yum! I originally wanted Dodgy Girl from Kelly's Collection (A gorgeous pastel purple colour) But it sold out in no time! So I picked up Kelly Yum Yum. This is a spin on MAC's best selling Candy Yum Yum (CandyYumYum being a Matte finish and KellyYumYum being Satin finish)And I am SO insanely glad I did pick it up!This picture does not do these colours any justice! So I've swatched them so you can get a closer look (apologies for the terrible skin, my Rosacea is acting the maggot)

On the left I have Kelly Yum Yum and on the Right I have Roxo.

Kelly YumYum: Im not the biggest fan of bright pink lipstick, infact, i used to hate it, but now, this has changed my opinion completely, I LOVE it! I love the finish on this lipstick as it makes lips look juicy and full, and not too shimmery and 'wet' looking! 

Roxo: This is an amplified lipstick, and my god the colour is perfect! The light on my phone makes this colour look alot lighter than it is, its slighter deeper than the look in this photo. My only worry with this is that the staying power isn't all too great. 

Here's how these bad boys look with and without flash!

Over all both lipsticks have gone straight into my favorite category. I really think MAC are killing it this summer with all their fabulous collaborations and packaging!

I bought Kelly YumYum in BT2-Dundrum

I bought Roxo in Brown Thomas Grafton Street. 

Have you recently bought any of MAC's new collections? Want me to review something? Then simply comment below or email me on theparmavioletblog@gmail.com, thank you.  

The Parma Violet

My June wishlist

Before I start it has come to my attention that nearly all of my pictures on my blog are missing!! I will fix this problem ASAP! 

Now for my June wishlist! my wishlist is totally endless, like most girls! But these are my most wanted things this June!Most, unfortunately I will be unable to obtain but, nevertheless, a girl can dream....

First of all, I have this gorgeous 50's pastel midi skirt from PENNEYS!! I nearly died when I laid eyes upon it, and i instantly regret not grabbing it there and then! Its perfect! I am legit so annoyed at myself for not picking it up as it seemed there were only a handful left :'( And for only 13 EURO its perfect for those long summer days!And also seems to be a blogger favourite at the moment!

Next I have This beautiful Pastel pink River island bag, at 40EURO, its a tad bit of a dream for me at the moment, but it is absolutely beautiful, very summery, perfect size for daytime and nighttime! Also available in a gorgeous lilac! to view click here!

Obviously, like nearly everyone else in the entire world, I am in love with the MAC osbournes collection, absolutely everything about it screams 'buy me' The one that sticks out most to me is Kelly's Dodgy Girl Lipstick! Wonderfully summery, with a retro twist! This being a Limited Edition collection, these babies won't stick around for long! This seems to cost around 21.50EURO...well worth the money

Another Limited Edition MAC collection in my eyesight is by Pedro Lourenco. I adore the look of everything this collection has to offer, especially the deep red lipsticks! This Pallette shouts out at me for so many reasons! The natural colours in this look so sexy and light, perfect for summery nights! Definitely a huuuuge want for me!

Finally, I don't know how long I've wanted this for, it feels like I've wanted this for my entire life, but this is Red Velvet by Limecrime from their Velvetines collection.This dream formula, goes on wet and dries completely matte! It looks astounding on the lips, super pigmented and rich. This has been on my wishlist for eons! at 21EURO a pop its a tad pricey but I really do think EVERY girl needs a Limecrime Velvetines in their lives! Available in 6 different colours, Velvetines has a lot to offer, and lets not forget about this darling packaging! With a new hyper pink Velvetines coming out soon, you better keep an eye out, cause these bad boys sell fast!Click here to see more Velvetines!

Have you tried any of MAC's new LE makeup? Want any product tried and tested? Simply email me at theparmavioletblog@gmail.com or comment below! thank you!

The Parma Violet

June haul + summer happiness

Oh happy days!!

Firstly before I start this off, can I just mention how overly ecstatic I was to have went to see McBusted in the point/o2 on the 2nd of June!
I'm not the biggest Mcfly fan, but I am the worlds biggest Busted fan since I was a child (no shame) so seeing them again was one of the happiest moments of my life! And was legit one if the funnest gigs I have ever went to! So this started of my June with a huge emotional bang! Also Matt Willis is probably the hottest thing on this planet and Emma Willis is a damn lucky woman......swiftly moving on..

Being currently unemployed, MAC temptations are an actual killer, all you can do is look at everyone else's instagram pictures of their new Limited Edition, gorgeously packaged, MAC treasures.

So I made it my business to get at least SOMETHING from MAC's new 'Alluring aquatic' collection! Seeming as I am a lipstick fiend, I went straight for the lipsticks.. 

And I'm not going to lie, I kind of only got this for the packaging! 'Goddess of the sea' kicked off MAC's limited edition summer wants for me! I adore purple lipstick, so this was the only product that really stood out for me. I ran straight to MAC in BT2 and bought this little baby for a whopping 21.50 EURO...Sickened, I went home to swatch it straight away, and I can't say I was entirely blown away to be perfectly honest. This lipstick has a cremesheen finish, I myself prefer matte lipstick, but the shine off this is sexy and classy! In order to get any kind of decent colour off of this you must apply quite thick, I applied 3-4 layers until I found the result I wanted. Although initially looking great (sorry for no swatch photo's my phone camera isn't great) The staying power lacks greatly! I found I got an hour out of this lipstick MAX! I decided to put on some Rimmel lipstick lock on top to keep the colour...But to no avail. If you're looking for great staying power and colour, then this one is a miss I'm afraid, keep your money. But if you want to buy purely for the UNBELIEVEABLE wet look + feel packaging, then by all means ladies RUN and get this before its sold out! 

Must get ALL the goodies! 

• On the top left, we have Lidl's famous 'Suddenly' perfume range! Recently Lidl have introduced 'Suddenly, Madame Glamour' Body lotion,shower gel and deodorant with the same scent! If you have the perfume, I suggest running out and grabbing the body lotion and shower gel set for 5.99EURO  and a glass, roll on deodorant for 79 cent!!! Perfection! (Madame Glamour is a Coco Mademoiselle dupe) The Body lotion is surprisingly thick and creamy, definitely worth picking up.
• On the top right I have a mini Penneys Haul! There is no happier place on earth than Penneys/ Primark! Reasonably priced items as far as the eye can see! I picked up this gorgeous powder blue shoulder bag with gold clasp for only 7EURO! Huge bargain!I got three sets of nails for 1.50 each, no complaining there! And P.S Love ultra black mascara for 2EURO! 3 Necklaces for 3 EURO is amazing value! And my favourite buy is this floral headband for only 2EURO in the childrens section! (Theyre selling adult headbands for 3 euro so head down to the childrens section and get the same one for a euro cheaper!)
• And on the bottom I have my favourite beauty buys!'Goddess of the sea' Lipstick by MAC 21.50EURO. (see above)I personally think Essence's new 'Blush up' ombre blush is a Dupe for MAC's Limited Edition Proenza Schouler Ocean City blush! And for 4.75EURO its a fraction of the price! Gorgeous blush!I FINALLY got around to buying Lush's Bubblegum lip scrub! this has been on my wishlist for a while and never got around to buying it! Give your lips some TLC for only 6.75EURO. also available in 'Mint julips' and  'Popcorn'. Leaves lips tasting and feeling heavenly! The smell is divine and you will have to stop yourself from devouring the whole tub! Also 'pow wow' popping candy lip scrub comes out to make an annual christmas appearance, perfect for those chapped lips. 

And finally, my favourite outfit for festivals.

As i wont be attending Electric Picnic (le sob), I shall be attending KnockanStockan and hopefully Body and Soul festival. Everybody wants a simple and cosy outfit that looks awesome, and represents their style too! So I paired my 70's Floaty style top and a 4EURO penneys skirt for a relaxed Boho Look! I paired this with a pair of DocMartens (my essential festival and everyday wear boots),Floral headband and a small mint handbag from Penneys/Primark for a pop of colour and voila, done! (Headbands are perfect for festivals, keeps hair in place when weather gets rainy/windy)

I hope you enjoyed reading this post, if you need to get in touch mail me on nadinestephens1990@gmail.com  or simply comment below! thank you!

The Parma Violet

Want a free M.A.C contour kit? Of course you do!

So, lets get straight to this M.A.C HACK!

 M.A.C is a girls best friend. The sleek packaging, the foundation, the pigmentation, and the all important lipsticks! *DROOL* But because it's INSANELY expensive, especially for us unemployed girlies, maybe its time for a few ruthless life hacks!

So without further adieu, here is how to get your very own FREE M.A.C contouring kit

1. Go into your local M.A.C store, it would make it more handy if there is 2 separate stores.
2. Tell floor staff you are an aspiring makeup artist and that you want to build your kit but are unsure of what foundation to use.
3. Ask if they can show you their FULL COVERAGE foundation.
4. Directly after mention that you have a few customers with darker and lighter skin, so is it possible to get 3 tester pots as you need to see which shades would be worth purchasing ( Light,Medium & Dark)
5. Finally, after you've done that, head around to another store and repeat.

YES! IT IS THAT SIMPLE!

Now, I have only done this once, so I ended up getting a few different foundations, to see which ones would work better with contouring! These are the ones I have ended up with...

From left to right (top row) - N5 Face and Body

                                          - NC40 Studio fix

                                          -C2 Face and Body

From left to right (bot row) - NC25 Studio Fix

                                          -NC15 Studio fix

                                          -W10 Full Coverage

Again, being the first time doing this I didn't know what to expect but personally I think the W10 Full Coverage is the PERFECT consistency for a contouring kit! This foundation is thick, gives unbeatable coverage and stays put all night! Im going to run out and get some more in different shades as soon as I can!

These pots may be teeny tiny, but lob a load of Full Coverage in these bad boys and they last a life time!

I decided to swatch a few shades to show you what im talking about!

The darkest shade seems to be runny and watery, I wont be opting for this again anytime soon. 

The rest aren't too bad, fabulous colours that work well for me as a foundation, but not as a contour kit unfortunately!

The last one..bingo..this is the moneymaker! as you can see its quite thick!This foundation is amazing for blending, although I thought otherwise! I will be getting this from now on as part as my contouring kit

So if anyone is going to try this one out make sure you go for a few tester pots of Full Coverage foundation! W10 seems to be perfect for highlighting

You could even superglue/glue gun the pots to a plastic palette to make it more organised! But as you will probably be going in for new pots all the time I wouldn't recommend it as it would be a waste of time and effort! But I am currently on the lookout for a box to accommodate the kit, if I find anything I will let you all know

Thank you all for reading, and I hope this post has been somewhat helpful to you all! If you have any more Makeup hacks please dont hesitate to let me know in the comment section below or simply email me at nadinestephens1990@gmail.com

The Parma Violet

Whats in my suitcase this summer?

ITS SUMMER!!!

And I honestly couldn't be happier! (This has been my first month of blogging and its going so well thank you all for following! VERY much appreciated)  :)Summer is my favourite time of year! Especially since I am jetting off to Portugal this Saturday the 10th!! I cannot contain the excitement! And it seems that everyone and their mothers are flying off on holiday this year! So I decided to do this post on what I am bringing with me to Portugal and maybe give you all a few ideas :) So without further adieu here are my favourite things going into my suitcase with me! 

 On Board

We all know there is NOTHING worse than being on a flight in uncomfortable restrictive clothes! And god forbid your flight gets delayed! And then there is the worry of dressing too cold/warm for your destination, so after careful planning I finally decided I am going to board my flight in this floaty, summery, girly outfit

Yellow Polka Dot Dress - 5EURO New Look

Round Sunglasses- 2EURO Penneys/Primark

Nude Wedges-12EURO Penneys/Primark

Necklace-3EURO Penneys/Primark

Suddenly Diamonds Perfume- 3.99EURO Lidl

WetNWild Nail varnish in Private Viewing-2.99EURO Dunnes Stores

Behold! My pretty suitcase that was only 20EURO from Dunnes Stores!

Dunnes are currently doing a sale on most Suitcases so run down before its too late! I was lucky enough to snap up this pretty case, it is JUST the right size for a week away in the sun!This case smoothly rolls along the ground and has interchangeable handlebar height! Perfect!

At the beach/by the pool

Of course, the most important part of your entire holiday has to be lazing on the beach or relaxing by the pool! and of course playing drunken volleyball in the water but thats for another time :) As I am a big busted lady on a budget finding swimsuits that fit right at a reasonable price are like gold dust to come across! And not being the thinnest of girls i dont tend to have alot of my body on show and like to cover up when I am beside the pool/beach! So i found these!

Excuse the awkward angle, it was the only way this picture was going to work. I spotted this bright,vibrant and classy bikini in Dunnes Stores would you believe! I was nearly positive they wouldn't have my best size (36DD) And they did! i was over the moon and ran straight to the desk to buy this gorgeous bikini! The details are just beautiful,it have a little knot at the front middle of the bikini top and a side knot on the bottoms, absolutely gorgeous, and also the support in the bra is excellent!

Bikini top 12.00EURO Dunnes Stores

Bikini Bottoms 6.00EURO Dunnes Stores

Spotted these flip flops in Penneys at 2.50EURO for two pairs! Unfortunately I couldn't find the other pair in my room for this picture (they're plain dark brown) Amazing value!

Again, excuse the terrible picture, but this is my favourite purchase of 2014 so far! This gorgeous colourful floaty kaftan is 16.00EURO from Penneys would you believe!!The detail is to die for! This sheer material will keep you modest over your bikini and yet allow breeze to fly right through to cool you down!

This is the best picture of the beaded detail on the chest that i could get! This Boho style kaftan is floorlength with bat wing arms, so floaty and sophisticated yet fun and sexy! Adore this buy!

And not forgetting a fun and flexible beach bag to carry your towel and sunlotion in!

Cotton Bag 7.00EURO Dunnes Stores

Dinner/Date night

Because I am going over with 11 of my friends and 1 being my Boyfriend its nearly positive that we will be going for a fancy dinner at some point, as my suitcase is only quite small I am only packing a light dress and small shoes with minimal accessories, so I came up with this date night look! A classy and sexy outfit made possible with a statement figure hugging dress and strappy leather heels with bag to match and gold accents. Love love love

Red Dress- 5.00EURO forever 21

Handbag 18.00EURO Penneys

Heals- 16.00EURO Penneys

Necklace-4.00EURO Penneys

Estee Lauder Lipstick-15.00 EURO Debenhams

this look would be perfect to go from daytime cocktails to evening dinner and drinks! This 50's style floral dress is one of my favourite wardrobe essentials! this ultra girly, vintage look is so versatile it can work during any stage of the day/night!

Floral Dress 10.00EURO New Look (Sale)

Nude Wedges 12EURO Penneys/Primark

Round Sunglasses 2EURO Penneys/Primark

Necklace 4.00EURO Penneys/Primark

Belt 4.00EURO Penneys Primark

WetNWild Varnish in Wet Cement 2.99EURO Dunnes Stores

Mac Viva Glam Lipstick 18.00 Mac,Brown Thomas

Shopping/Relaxing

During the day I dont want to make a huge fuss and dress to impress constantly, So this outfit is perfect for me as i wear it alot anyway! Ultra comfortable and super versatile! the outfit is simple and takes little to no effort! Team this outfit with a back combed pony or messy bun and you're ready to go

Top 2EURO Penneys/Primark

Skirt 4EURO Penneys/Primark

Creppers 12EURO Penneys/Primark

Guns N Roses Tote Bag 4EURO Penneys/Primark

Peace Sign Necklace 2EURO Penneys/Primark

WetNWild Lipstick in CherryBomb 2.99EURO Dunnes Stores

Round Sunglasses 2EURO Penneys/Primark

River Island London Perfume 10EURO (On Sale) 

I adore this dress! this striking blue dress was bought in a second hand shop and I adore it! The mandela type design on it makes it stand out from the crowd! Perfect for doing a bit of shopping or sitting down for some lunch and cocktails in the gorgeous sun!

Blue Mandela Dress- Second hand 10 EURO

I wear this..all...the..time, I literally cannot find anything else more comfortable so I would wear these around the house and on the flight back home! This jumper is my brothers that he got whilst he was in Isreal and these bottoms are my favourite bottoms..ever! I bought these in Spain last year at a market for 10 Euro! These are perfect to wear to/from the beach as they're a sheer material! Same goes for this jumper! It looks wooly and heavy but infact its super light weight! 

Are you jetting off this summer? If so comment below or mail me at nadinestephens1990@gmail.com 

I hope you found this post helpful!

The Parma Violet