My precious nail polish

Primark eyelash curler

2012-02-17T00:24:00.002+01:00

Let me introduce you to my favourite eyelash curler EVER.

Curling my lashes, in a really important step in my makeup routine. Without it, I feel like my lashes are dull and my mascara does not apply as well. Last year when I spent a month in London, I was looking for a cheap eyelash curler as I had forgot mine at home and I got the one at Primark. It is a very cute white and pink one, and it was 1£! BARGAIN. I was not expecting this curler to be the best but to my great surprise, IT IS.

After a full year of using it, it became old and I didn't work as well. I was desperate to get a new one but the Primark in Belgium didn't have the makeup range. Well It didn't, but IT DOES NOW. I went to Primark last week and I was excited to see that they makeup range and beauty accessories is now available in Belgium too! I bought 2 lash curlers, just in case :) It was 1,50€, still very affordable.

This eyelash curler has a very firm pressure and does an amazing job to the lashes. I use it every single day even when I don't wear mascara, it really disciplines my lashes and brighten my eyes!

Lash curled without mascara. You can see that it is very efficient!

And with mascara :)

For a very long time, I was thinking of splurging a good amount of money to buy myself a good eyelash curler (like the Shu Uemura one) but after being really satisfied with my Primark one, I think it would be so mad to spend so much on an eyelash curler!

What is your favourite eyelash curler? (if you use one...and if you don't... OMG DO IT)

XO,Marilou

On my nails today : Size Matters

2012-02-16T22:50:00.002+01:00

Nothing like a good old red nail polish to add sophistication to any outfit. My latest red crush has been the varnish Size Matters by Essie. I've bought this because I found that the undertones of this colour were really special. It's not your typical red, it has some fuschia/wine undertones. It's a very unique mix!

I've been a bit disappointed with the new Essie brush to be quite honest, it's just too wide and makes the application a bit messy.

This was 3 coats!

XO,Marilou

Beauty wishlist #1

2012-02-14T20:21:00.003+01:00

This is my current beauty wishlist :) I'm dying to get my hands on these gems. Especially the Clarisonic MIA and the Real Techniques brushes (too bad they're not all pink). The perfume Flower Bomb is on my wishlist but is no new to my daily life. It has been my favourite perfume for about two years now, such a lovely girly yet spicy smell! I have some goodies coming soon from the UK thanks to the lovely blogger RAY. I have been a bit MIA lately, I've had very busy weeks and weekend but I'm plotting some great posts to come. I like being busy but I really miss having the time to blog like I love to do. When I blog it seems like all my worries or thoughts disappear and I'm just in a beauty talk mood (which I love)

OPI - Midnight in Moscow / Viktor & Rolf - Flowerbomb/ Physicians formula - Happy Booster/ Clarisonic Mia

Sleek Contouring Kit / Mac -Russian Red / Real techniques brushes - Core

XO,MARILOU

The best thing that has ever happened to music

2012-02-13T07:24:00.001+01:00

My love for Adele just keeps growing and growing.

She is the real deal, I mean, let's be honest, all these little celebrities beyonce & co have nothing on her.YOU GO GIRL. The cover issue of march from Vogue is just exquisit!

Her makeup last night at The Grammy's. GORGEOUS.

On that note, have a great monday.

On repeat : Adele - One and Only

XO, Marilou

Tangle Teezer brush

2012-02-13T00:43:00.002+01:00

OOPSIE. I haven't blog in a week. I have been really busy with my internship :) I finally got my hands on the Tangle Teezer profesionnal detangling brush. This brush is the weirdest brush I have ever own. The shape is very uncommon and looks like a pony brush.

It is in plastic and has the perfect shape to fit your hands and gently detangling your hair. I'm not a massive tangle girl but I do have some issues when I brush my hair as the regular brushes make me lose even more hair than usual and I do feel that it's not gentle enough. The Tangle Teezer is said to be gentle and help detangling the most tangled hair. I love that the packaging is pink, random but definitely something that will be decisive in my buy.

My thought on this brush : a really good brush that makes the brushing a very gentle and pleasant moment. I take it everywhere with me as I hate the messy hair feeling and it really is super gentle as I have noticed that I now lose less hair when brushing them with my Tangle Teezer. I like that it's an affordable brush ( I got it on Asos for 10£)

I really wanted to do more OOTD this week but with this über cold weather my OOTD were so lame with ridiculous amount of layers, gloves, scarves etc. I'll try to take some pictures this week as the temperature is back to reasonnable!

XO, MARILOU

On my nails today : Black Cherry Chutney + Sparkle-icious

2012-02-06T22:26:00.000+01:00

It has been very difficul to wake up in the morning this past week with the cold wave. I don't want to wait for the delayed train, bus, or whatever... in the cold. Isn't that the worst thing? I feel like dying every time it happens. Forget all about fashion, I just want to be warm and cozy. The only thing I still pay attention to are my nails and to cheer my mood up I had to wear some glitters. Tataaa, and this is what I'm currently wearing on my nails. My new ultimate favourite OPI combo. The oh-so famous Sparkle-icious from the Burlesque collection (last year) paired with my new baby Black Cherry Chutney. I can't help it but fall over in love all over again with OPI, they do have the best colours and quality out there, let's be real :)

Sparkle-icious & Black Cherry Chutney

I do love a good old blingy ring finger manicure :)
Totally in love with my combo. I'll definitely be rocking that look lots!

As you can see below, Sparkle-icious (right) is the most gorgeous glittery nail polish EVER. I'm SO happy I could finally got my hands on this precious gem (thank you so much Christel) Black Cherry Chutney (left) is such a gorgeous deep shimmery purple, I have nothing similar and It's pleasant to go for something shimmery for a change.

I adore my new OPI varnishes :) Nail polish really makes me happy!
What do we think over this combo ladies?

BELGIQUE :Vernis OPI 13,90€ chez Planet Parfum/Cosmeticary ou autres revendeurs voir site www.opi-belgium.be

XO,Marilou

Avène Cold Cream

2012-02-03T12:48:00.002+01:00

This post may interest some of you that have skin with some serious dry tendancy all year long and with even drier skin during winter. If you don't, skip this post. If you do, let me introduce you to my very dry flaky skin life saver. The Avène Cold Cream. I've bought the 100ml two days ago as the weather went from "mmh it's okay" to "SWEET JESUS ITS A FREEZING HELL". As we speak it's -11° outside and let me tell you that my skin has already been suffering from this radical change of temperature. I always had and always will have a dry skin, so I'm used to use highly moisturizing product. Even during summer my skin needs that extra moist. I can't even think going out of the shower and skipping the moisturizing step. With this weather, things just got worse and worse. My nose is all flaky and feels soo dry (mmmh so glam) and wearing foundation is making the dryness even worse. I feel so self-conscious all day long. When this happen, I know it's time to draw the serious moisturizing skin care. I have already used Cold Cream before, so this is no new to me. I know it works so well for my skin in those dry crisis period.

Cold cream is an extreeeemely "greasy" moisturizer. I apply this thickly at night so my skin feels brand new in the morning, and because wheather is going crazy cold at the moment, I even apply this in the morning in a less thicker coat so my skin doesn't suffer from dryness all day long.
I love the comfort moist feeling on the skin. Cold cream is such a life saver!

The consistency is very thick and you need time for the cream to really penetrates into your skin. The smell is the usual Avène smell, with no any chemical perfumes added. That's one thing I adore about Avène, the whole dermatological fragrance free and bla and bla. It's so safe for your skin and I do believe it is one of the best skin care brand out there (with Liz Earle)

I definitely recommand you this cold cream if you have been suffering from flaking and extreme dryness.

14€ en pharmacie

Have a great freezing day :)

XO,Marilou

On my nails today : Milani Jewel FX GOLD

2012-02-02T20:54:00.005+01:00

My new baby! After month and month lusting after the Milani Jewel FX nail polishes, I took the plunge and asked a blogger in the US to help me getting my hands on these gems. I received them yesterday, after a horrendous cold-delayed-trains way back home, I was so tired and super hungry, I let you imaginating my joy when I saw the package at the step of my door :) I picked the Gold and Silver.

Today i wore the Gold shade, which is basically a ton of gold round massive glitters gathered in a bottle. It's so blingy and over the top, exactly what I love.

After three coats this was the result. When pictures you see there are some wholes but in real life you can't hardly seem them because you went blind just looking at your nails :) I will definitely wear that little gem a lot, it's über gorgeous and has entered my top 3 fav glitter varnishes.

You must think, this was such a pain in the arse to remove? Well, it would have been probably if I had used nail polish remover, but I didn't! No, I just peeled them off like I was peeling an orange :)

What do we think ladies ?

XO, Marilou

I suck at OOTD-ing

2012-01-30T22:51:00.003+01:00

True, I really suck at OOTD. I feel so shy and awkward striking a pose in the middle of street and taking hundred of pictures BUT it's good to show some OOTD on your blog at times. (Well, I guess so as I love when my fav bloggers do so )Basically I just watend to brag about my new plaited zara bag that is my new love. I've been wanting this bag for aaaaages and I don't know why I took so long to purchase it. A must have in my wardrobe. It's huge and comes really handy for anything work/uni related.This outfit is so not weather appropriate, I KNOW. But it was one of this day where you're just going to be carry around in a car for going from one house to another. (that seemed a little bit hookerish..IT'S NOT).I'll definitely share with you some of my other outfits this week or the one to come if I have time to take a picture of it in the morning rush.

Jacket - French Connection

Bag - Zara

Shirt - Primark

Jeggings - Uniqlo

Heels boots - Zara

Ok guys Hope you're all well :)

XO,Marilou

Blistex lip cream relief

2012-01-30T22:43:00.000+01:00

After reading tons of great reviews about this product, I was super excited to find it in the drugstore Kruidvat in Brussels. Blistex is a lip cream relief that instantly relieves your damaged lips. This cold weather can be cold on your lips. I hate hate hate chafed lips, it's 1) so unglamorous 2) so unflattering when your wear lipstick 3) not attractive. Blistex is such a great product that really has a quick effect on your lips. It makes them smoother, softer after a few minutes. In comes in a little tube so it's definitely handy to carry around everywhere with you.

The smell is pretty strong. I believe it has some kind of eucalyptus in it, not disguting but not my favourite! I would have love more a cocoa butter smell but the result is so incredible that I just can't complain.

The consistency is quite thick and white so a little amount is far enough to repair any damaged lips.

With the -11degrees coming this friday, this product is definitely not going to leave my bag!

XO,Marilou

Les produits de beauté must have UK partie 1

2012-01-27T01:33:00.000+01:00

Ma première vidéo en français, remplie de tics de langage les plus affreux les uns que les autres ainsi que pas mal de blabla un peu inutile par moment.

Oui je suis belge... et non je ne ressens pas le besoin de dire une fois à la fin de toutes mes phrases. ON UTILISE DES MOTS COOL ET TRENDY COMME TOUT LE MONDE, OK :) ?

XO,Marilou

Back2Mac disappointment

2012-01-26T19:14:00.000+01:00

Oh waw, it's been such a long time I haven't blog! I've been really MIA lately due to my exams then to the week off right after. I'm back and unfortunately, not really happy. Today was such an awful rainy cold day so to cheer me up I decided it was finally time for the big day. The day when you bring back all your empty/depotted items at M.a.c for the Back2Mac (6 empty items = 1 free lipstick of your choice)

I've been a customer at mac for quite a long time now so I had loads of empty items and I was so excited to finally get to choose my free lippies! I have 14 itemps empty so basically I could have get two lipsticks. Massive, massive, massive disappointment when asking the lady at the counter how it worked for the Back2Mac. Basically she said that "THEY WERE NO BACK2MAC IN BELGIUM".

*awkward and confused silence*

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?

I can't even believe this is true, seriously I mean we have 3 mac stores in Belgium and they all work very well. Every country has that Back2Mac thing going on, why not here ? This one other reason to leave this country once I'm done with my studies. It means I'm gonna have to wait until next time I travel to France, Germany or the UK to get my Back2Mac. This is so ridiculous!!!!!

Anyways, this was the bad news, the good news is that I'm starting my internship at OPI Belgium next week. I'm so over the moon excited with this new opportunity, definitely right up my alley!

Hope you're all well

XO,Marilou

Dara Ettinger jewelry

2012-01-14T22:56:00.001+01:00

I'm OBSESSED with Dara Ettinger jewelry range which is basically filled with raw precious stone.

I'm dying to get my hands on some of these jewels, they're just such a nice statement piece to add to any outfits. They're a bit pricy but SO GORGEOUS.

XO,Marilou

Note to self

2012-01-12T16:35:00.003+01:00

Must stop over thinking.

Must follow these rules. In particular the expect less. I guess that's the key to not being disappointed.

Word.

I'm totally addicted to the Real Housewives whether it is from NY, Beverly Hills, OC or Atlanta. Although my favourite is the one with the ladies in Beverly Hills :) These shows are my guilty pleasures.

I.need.to.party.

I'll be doing some OOTD as soon as my exams are over :)

XO,Marilou

On my nails today : Captain Sparrow's boat // Black Pearl DUPE

2012-01-09T22:59:00.001+01:00

Chanel Black Pearl has been on my wish list for sooo long. I don't even know why I didn't manage to get it before, I guess I'm just so over spending 20€ on a nail polish and I was waiting for a dupe to show off. Don't get me wrong here, I love Chanel nail polishes, I mean they're just so pretty and classy..packaging wise. I don't see a difference when it comes to quality, for me a nail polish is a nail polish. They are bad quality nail polishes and then regular nail polishes that will chip after a few days. I don't believe in those 10 days with no chipping nail polishes. Chanel do have some amazing colours coming out and I have always find dupes so far but I just don't find they are worth the super expensive price. I mean, it's just nail polish. When I read somewhere that Catrice, a brand that is carried is a drugstore near my house, had an exact dupe of my oh so wanted Black Pearl, I literally ran there to get it and it was the last one! Phew.

They do went all copy cat in the name. I mean Captain Sparrow's boat ?

It's an accurate dupe for Black Pearl although it was hard to capture on camera.

It's such a pretty colour, I am in love with my nails. I guess If I couldn't have find a dupe I would have go for the original Chanel one. It's just such a pretty, unuseful colour.

The colour is a GORGEOUS shimmery grey/green that alters with the lighting.

Absolutely loving this colour! I know, it's so last decade but I'm really happy to finally own the Black Pearl copy cat varnish :)

The quality of the CATRICE nail polish is quite outstanding for such a low price (around 4 euros) and you get a rather large amount of product. Catrice have such a wide range of products and I'm seriously eyeing on some other varnish colours.

XO,Marilou

So basically today...

2012-01-07T15:33:00.000+01:00

I didn't get the charm hidden in the cake "Galette des rois" but I'm still getting the paper crown. Self crowning.

Drinking a disturbing amount of tea while revising.

Nibbling all kind of craps.

Playing with my nail polishes. Understand here = applying + then reckoning it looks fug on my chubby fingers + removing it.

But still ending with some massive glittery nails. Just because it's fun and girly.

Okay, I'm back to my accounting.

Toodles! Marilou

FOTD : Sin blush

2012-01-05T16:52:00.004+01:00

Yes. Yes. I know I should be revising for my two weeks of exams coming BUT what can I do, every time I need to focus all I want to do is play with my makeup. Just a quick face of the day with my new love, the blush SIN from the Nars Danmari palette. I'm crazy in love with this colour.

Nothing too over the top, I have curled my hair then brush them out in attempt to get that Olsen hair look. Meh. In case you would have noticed, I had to cut my hair a bit as they were way too damaged at the ends. I can't cope with split ends anymore, I swear! Such a calamity. I've tried everything, every sérum out there but they always seem to come back one way or another. I miss my longer hair, I feel like a 17 teen now.

Products I used :

Bourjois healthy mix serum - 02 Vanilla

Mac studio fix powder - Light

Nars bronzer - Casino (all over the face)

Nars bronzer - Laguna (on the cheeks)

Benefit highlighter - Moon Beam

Nars blush - Sin (from the Danmari Palette)

Naked Palette - Naked and Baked eyeshadows

L'oréal super liner - carbon black

L'oréal mascara - Volume Million Cils

Barry M lipstick - Marshmallow

Nars blush in SIN

♥

Not a huge fan of Ed Sheeran but I've been listening to two of his songs lately

Kiss and Give me love

Hope everyone is well under this horrendous weather :)

XO,Marilou

Essence gel liner in London Baby

2012-01-04T19:56:00.001+01:00

After getting some Essence varnishes, I had to go back and check out the make up range. They are so many things and I really didn't know what were the must haves so after a few researches on beauty blogs I went for the gel liner. I've read so many positive reviews about this gel liner, and being a gel liner lover myself, I couldn't miss the opportunity of trying a new one. I'm currently loving the Maybelline gel liner but I wanted to try something new. The price is just ridiculous, in a good way obviously. It was something around 3-4 euros. At that price, it so tempting getting more products and try everything.

The great thing you get with those gel liners is that they come if four different shades. Black, purple, green forest and dark taupe. I went for London Baby, the shade 02, which is the dark taupe colour.

The colour is incredibly gorgeous. Filled with tons of tiny glitters, it is as I said a dark taupe.

The glitters kind of remind me of the holographic you see in some nail polishes. Stunning! I had never seen that colour in a gel liner before.

When swatched heavily on the hand, you can really get a close idea of the colour.

The texture is the creamiest texture I have ever came accross in my makeup history. It is really easy to apply but I do find that it could be more opaque as I need to go over with an other coat to make it even.

The gel liner is definitely my favourite formula when it comes to liners. I love the creaminess of the essence gel liner as one they dry they won't move. I mean, truly won't move. I had to wash the back of my hand several times to eventually get rid of it. The one thing missing is for me that I doesn't work at ALL in the water line like the Maybelline do. Maybe I will venture myself into using this as an eyeshadow as the finish is absolutely gorgeous.

It is available at KRUIDVAT in Brussels. There is a new one opening Chaussée d'Alsemberg not so far from where I love so I'm getting really excited to get my hands on many more essence products really soon. I don't think you can get this brand in the UK or in the USA which is a shame as they have such a wide fun range of products.

What do you think of this gel liner? Did you heard about the brand Essence?

XO, Marilou

Nars Danmari Palette ♥

2012-01-03T09:15:00.006+01:00

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek. I KNOW.

I can feel 2012 is going to be an amazing year. How wouldn't it be with the Danmari Palette from Nars now in my possession? :-) I was eyeing on this so much and It was sold out pretty much everywhere online. I was so lucky enough to receive this as a gift from the bf. Perfect gift. I'm so thankful! I absolutely love Nars and the quality of their products, so to get a full 6 shades palette with their blush is just the greatest thing.

To give you an idea of the size of this little gem, here it is next to a Nars eyeshadow and next to a Nars blusher. I know I will carry this palette everywhere with me, it's so convenient and is it filled with the most beautiful shades.

I couldn't help myself but take hundred of pictures of this little beauty.

I'm gonna spare you that amount but I have to warn you that is going to be a rather long post :-)

You gotta love the Nars packaging. The palette comes out so chic although after a few manipulations It was already messed up with my finger prints all over the case and it's impossible to erase :(

Basically you get an highlighter, a bronzer and four blushes. Except from Orgasm, I had never tried any of the Nars powder blushes before, so I was sooo excited to try them all, and particularly the shade Sin.

From left to right

First row : Hungry Heart Duo (I) - Orgasm - Desire

Second row : Casino - Super Orgasm - Sin

Hungry Heart Duo (I)

This is the highlighter of the palette. A white pearly glittery shade. I already own Albatross and this could be similar however this shade contains wayyyy more glitter than Albatross.

Orgasm

The well know blush by Nars. Definitely a must have. I already have this shade in multiple and in powder and a third is well welcomed as I absolutely adore this shade, it is so gorgeous.

Desire

The bright pink of the bunch. I like that you get one matte shade and that brightness is everything I love in a pink blush.

Casino

The bronzer of the palette. I adore Nars bronzer, I'm already a huge fan of the Laguna bronzer and I know Casino is not going to disappoint.

Super Orgasm

Now this is the shade I was the "most disappointed" about. Not because it isn't pretty or pigmented but because I would have expect something a bit different than a super duper glittery Orgasm dupe. I think that a matte peach shade would have been way much interesting for the diversity of the palette. Nevertheless, it is a gorgeous shade.

Sin

Last, but not least. My favourite colour of the six. The shade sin directly caught my attention with this massive purple undertones. I don't have anything similar as a blush and I was so intrigued by wearing a purple blush. It came out so gorgeous on my cheeks, I was so surprised! I would have never purchased this by myself but I will definitely try some other purple shades from now on.

I'm the happiest girl right now as this palette was is my über needed wish list post. That's one item I can cross off the list I guess :-) I feel so excited when I have to put my make up on as I know I will have to use it and pick a shade. Or maybe mix up one or two :-) I would definitely recommend you to buy this if you ever get the chance to, it is the dream team blush palette!

XO, Marilou

2012 !

2012-01-02T18:02:00.002+01:00

Happy new year ! I hope you had a very good weekend :-)

A little FOTD of my face on NY's eve.

Pink cheeks and massive lashes. And a happy smile!

May this year be filled with loads of unnecessary makeup buys and over the top false lashes.

XO, Marilou

On my nails today : Suzy Says Da ♥

2011-12-27T18:42:00.002+01:00

As said in my previous post on my most worn nail polishes, OPI is my favourite brand when it comes to dark shades. Such a wide range with so many choices and the amazing quality that we all know. I always wear dark nails when I don't wanna go wrong or I just want a sophisticated look. I bought Suzy Says Da after seeing one of my classmate using it. It was love at first sight. Exactly the kinda shade I was looking for. Something dark but a bit different than the regular dark purple or dark red.

After only two coats, I got this super impressive opacity that really reveals the true colour of this little gem.

I own no colour similar so far, it is a marvelous mix of dark brown with some red undertones.

The gorgeous Suzy Says Da is from the Russian Collection, which isn't the latest IT collection but nevertheless, the colour is worth the detour.

With natural light, the colour really goes deep black

(Gorgeousness alert)

And the flash reveals the true colour of this baby.

I'm in awe with my nails, it has definitely made it to my top 3 favourite dark nail polishes shades.

Suzy Says Da : 13,95€ chez Planet Parfum

What do we think ladies?

XO,Marilou

VO5 Miracle concentrate

2011-12-27T14:30:00.001+01:00

Hope you all had a lovely christmas weekend with your family and friends :)

I wanted to write a little post on the VO5 Miracle concentrate as it is one of the most exciting hair product I have been using this year. Mostly because it is a brand you only can get in the UK ( hence the extra excitement ) and after reading all these good reviews I was really looking forward to try this "magical elixir".

This product is actually really affordable and it claims to contain argain oil although argan oil is one of the most expensive oil out there at the moment. (a bit confusing but...) Anyways, it is really affordable and have the most amazing smell ever. I swear to god I am so addicted to the smell, I like to open it just to sniffle it. I really feel a difference in my hair after using this. I'm not sure it has a real effect on them on the long term but more of a day to day effect. I would call it more of a hair enhancer of the day!

It is said to be a leave-in treatment, which can be tricky as you might feel like the product is getting to oily and makes your hair look greasy. You really need to apply a ridiculous amount of this on the ends of your hair (or by the middle) but I would avoid the top! The pump makes it easier to proportion the right amount wanted. As you can see, the bottle is more than half empty. I have been using this for a good 3 months now and I still have lots in the bottle ! Very convenient, this is going to last forever!

I really love using this product if I didn't use a hair mask before, I feel like it disciplines them a bit :)

I'm looking forward to trying more of the VO5 range in the shampoo and mask category.

Have you tried this ?

XO,Marilou

10 favourite products of 2011

2011-12-24T20:40:00.001+01:00

Time to select my 10 favourite products of 2011.

The best of the best from this year in my opinion.

I've been loving, using and abusing of :

♥Maybelline - eye studio cream liner

♥Urban Decay - Naked Palette

♥Embryolisse - moisturizer lait crème concentré

♥Estée Lauder - Double Wear

♥Mac - Fleshpot lipstick

♥Sigma - flat kabuki brush

♥St Moriz - self tanner mousse

♥L'Oreal -Volume Millions Cils

♥Nars - Laguna Bronzer

♥Liz Earle - Cleanse and Polish

Overall, nothing really original but I've been so pleased with these products.

I'm so looking forward to discover new products in 2012.

What have been your fav products this year?

XO, Marilou

My most worn nail polishes

2011-12-23T19:30:00.007+01:00

While trying to sort my nail polish stash out I noticed that some of the bottles were really empty or half full due to my excessive use of them, so I decided to make a little "most worn nail polishes" post. It seem like I'm such a classic girl with classic tastes when I see that most of them are black, red and nude. I do love a good crazy colour but on a daily basis I always go for something that goes easily with anything.

You can't go wrong with dark shades. Ever. I always go for OPI nail polishes to pick them as they have such a wide range with the amazing quality that follows.

On the OPI side. My most worn nail polishes are :

Give me moor / Suzi skies in the Pyrenees / Lincoln park after dark / Time Less is More / Sweet Heart

On the China Glaze side :

VIII / Flip flop fantasy / Seduce Me / Heli-Yum

And randomly :

Orly - Pure porcelain / Essie - Haute as Hello / Models Own - Purple Grey.

What are YOUR most worn nail polishes? (Go check your bottles) :-)

XO,Marilou

On repeat

2011-12-21T21:31:00.004+01:00

Lana Del Rey - Born to die.

I die over her makeup all the video long. - Absolutely gorgeous and so inspiring.

XO, Marilou

On my nails today : School of Hard Rocks

2011-12-20T23:15:00.002+01:00

I HAD to get some of the colours from the latest winter collection of Essie now that it is available on a famous drugstore in Brussels! My first pick was School of hard rock. I just couldn't not buy this colour. I own nothing similar and it is the perfect wintery colour...Such a good alternative to a dark purple or a black!

The colour is a fabulous medley of blue and grey with some green undertones. Totally gorgeous.

It gives that little sophisticated touch to any outfit.

This is the first time I get an Essie varnish with their new bottles/new formula/new brushes (which are much wider). I was really impressed with the opacity of this nail varnish. Only two coats were necessary to get an even finish.

This varnish brought me back to the Essie world as I had been a bit disappointed with the opacity lately.

Now I'm so excited about the fact that it is available in Brussels and I want more and more colours!

I have this deep feeling that my Essie family is just gonna grow and grow in a near future!

What do we think ladies ?

XO, Marilou

Nouveaux arrivages chez DI

2011-12-19T16:15:00.004+01:00

Je ne suis que joie et émotion.

DI, le drugstore bruxellois, se renouvèle un tantinet

dans son offre de produits de makeup et nous propose maintenant 3 nouvelles marques.

RIMMEL London. La marque londonienne fait son apparition chez DI mais on pouvait déjà se la procurer chez Kruidvat. Le rayon est ceci dit plus up to date et plus propre ! Must have : les rouges à lèvres Kate Moss et le mascara lash accelerator.

La marque MAXFACTOR que je connais beaucoup moins.. à tester !

Et last but not least, les fameux vernis Essie sont maintenant dispo. A-may-zing

La dernière collection était déjà limite sold out. La gamme proposée est plutôt vaste niveau couleur. Ca fait plaiz ! Prix : 10,99€

Il était temps, enfin du neuf niveau makeup, qui rafraîchit un peu les rayons!

XO,Marilou

My über needed wish list

2011-12-18T19:29:00.002+01:00

Chanel Timeless Jumbo gold chain / Nars Danmari Palette / House of Harlow statement necklace

Chanel Soleil de Tan bronzer / Topshop scallop purse/ Louboutins Bibi 140 Black pumps

Zara plaited shopper (but I want it in Black) / Sigma brush sets / Chanel Black Pearl nail polish

Yes, one girl can dream for the Jumbo Timeless Chanel Bag. But I will get it one day, I MUST :)

XO, Marilou

On my nails today : Circus confetti

2011-12-18T12:57:00.001+01:00

Bring on the festive nails!

This is one of my first Essence nail polish. Essence is a reallyyy cheap brand (that you can find at Kruidvat for those living in Belgium) that sells mostly nail polishes and makeup. Wee hee ! When I say really cheap...I mean it. This nail polish was 1,79€ and it was one of the most expensive one , as the little one were 1,29€. Bargain!

When I saw this multi glittery chunky bottle, I immediately thought of a dupe for "Happy Birthday" by Lippmann and "Rainbow Connection" by OPI.

It has a clear base coat so it's majorly chunky glitter from all kind of colors!

Without the flash, you can see that after 3 massive coats it was hard covering the entire nail.

I do like the finish though and in real life you don't focus on the fact that it isn't covering the entire nail as it is soooo shiny and blingy!

With the flash this time. It is definitely a dupe for Lippmann "Happy Birthday" after looking at swatches online and such a great alternative for only 1,79€!

I also got my hands on other nail polishes from ESSENCE. The makeup also was looking pretty good but I didn't really know what to go for , what were the must have but I'll definitely try some in a very near future!

What do we think over this chunky gem ladies ?

Happy sunday!

XO, Marilou

Sleek vixen lipstick

2011-12-16T15:16:00.001+01:00

Believe it or not, I do not own a lot of red lipsticks. Actually I think this is only my first or second.

I always used to thought that red lips were not for me. Red or bright pink.

I was more used to wearing nude and pale pinky colours. But when aging , I felt more like a woman (LOL) and therefore felt the need to wear something more ladylike and daring.

Every girl should own one, you just have to find that red tone that is going to suit you.

I've heard of Sleek lipsticks sooo much and by already using their eyeshadow palettes I know I wouldn't be disappointed with the quality!

I went for the shade Vixen which is said to be "sheer".

It's a very bright "light" red. Now that I have use this, I feel more like going on a more medium or even dark red. It's pretty and bright but it feels like it clashes too much with my skin tone when I'm pale.

The texture is incredible. Super smooth and creamy with a slight glossy finish that goes the distance.

Even when removing it, my lips are a bit red stained!

Here's the swatch. I wore it on my 23rd birthday this year

Cherry and Mulberry are the next one on my wishlist!

What's your favourite Sleek shade?

XO, Marilou

Topshop cream blush in Head Over Heels

2011-12-08T20:02:00.000+01:00

Last september I finally got my chubby hands on some Topshop makeup. I went for the Cream Blushes.

How cute is the packaging? I want the whole range, it would look sooooo great in my makeup drawer, I'm telling you :)

Head over Heels was my first pick.

It was super hard to capture the true colour of this little gem. How to describe it? Well, it's a creamy peachy-pink blush. More pink or more peach depending on the light.

It comes out reaaaaally bright in the picture, but don't be scare, it isn't THAT bright.

Totally wearable if well blended. I find the texture to be quite good, not really sticky but it does lack a bit of a dewy finish in my opinion. I was really pleasently surprised with the quality of the Topshop cream blushes, at first I thought it was going to be so crap because they bet everything on the cute packaging.

But no, you actually get both here. Quality AND cutest packaging on earth.

The swatch. You can definitely get more of an idea of the colour of this blush here.

How gorgeous?

What's your favourite topshop makeup item ? Do you like the range?

What's a MUST HAVE ?

XO, Marilou

2011-12-06T00:26:00.000+01:00

“This life is what you make it. Not matter what, you're going to mess up sometimes, it's a universal truth. But the good part is you get to decide how you're going to mess it up. Girls will be your friends - they'll act like it anyway. But just remember, some come, some go. The ones that stay with you through everything - they're your true best friends. Don't let go of them. Also remember, sisters make the best friends in the world. As for lovers, well, they'll come and go too. And babe, I hate to say it, most of them - actually pretty much all of them are going to break your heart, but you can't give up becuase if you give up, you'll never find your soul mate. You'll never find that half who makes you whole and that goes for everything. Just because you fail once, doesn't mean you're gonna fail at everything. Keep trying, hold on, and always, always, always believe in yourself, because if you don't, then who will, sweetie? So keep your head high, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about.”

― Marilyn Monroe.

Wavy hair obsession

2011-12-05T13:38:00.001+01:00

Lately I've been obsessed with wavy hair. I have naturally rather straight hair and I've always dreamed of having wavy hair. It's such a glamorous look.

My ultimate inspiration has been Lauren Conrad. Queen of the wavy hair do.

Unfortunately, I do not look like her and I do not have her hair. She does have extension which makes it easier for the waves to stay put all day long. My hair are so thin that the waves don't stay long :(

To achieve this look, I use my Remington hair straightener and I find it to work much better than a curling iron. You just have to find the right way to create curls. At first, the curls look a bit overdone and so I brush my hair right after to get that more natural wavy look then I spray my hair with hairspray.

And voila :)

I'm considering getting hair extensions as I really find that my hair are lacking volume and thickness.

I'm a major fail at hair extensions and stuff so any recommandations would be more than welcome!

XO,Marilou

Video : Cream eyeliner application.

2011-12-01T20:30:00.004+01:00

As requested, my new video is on how I apply cream eyeliner ! Thank you so much to everyone that has watched, subscribed and left nice comments :)

I went to starbucks in Brussels today. I absolutely love this place, it has become my new HQ :)

I'm usually a frappucino / caramel macchiato kinda girl and I've always stick to these drinks but today I felt adventurous and I went for a White Caffé Mocha. (white chocolate + 2 shots of espresso + loads of milk + whipped cream )

HOLY SWEET MOTHER OF GOD, it was so delicious. New favourite drink, hands down.

XO, Marilou

BREAKING NEWS/ Avis aux nailista belges

2011-11-30T11:45:00.002+01:00

Les fameux vernis DEBORAH LIPPMANN seront disponibles dès décembre chez SENTEURS D'AILLEURS (place Stéphanie à Bruxelles)

Toutes ensembles : Hiiiiiiiiiiiiii.

Je sais pas vous, mais perso je rêvais de ces vernis depuis belle lurette.

Mon premier achat sera probablement le fameux Happy Birthday! (le premier sur l'image)

XO, Marilou

Bourjois flower perfection translucent smoothing primer

2011-11-29T18:52:00.001+01:00

Wee hee! I'm back from a week off from blogging. I'm glad some of you did enjoy my first video, very heartwarming, I got great feedbacks :) Today was the worst day, the one when it's cold, gloomy, you don't wanna get up and just stay in bed with a cup of tea. But no, I had to go to uni and freeze my bum waiting for the bus. On my way back , I knew I had to treat myself for being so devoted and brave. This Bourjois perfection translucent smoothing primer caught my eyes while spending hours swatching the new Rimmel collection ( nowavailable at DI for the Brusseleers!). Bourjois came up with this new flower collection, they also were some lipgloss+whitening product but the primer was winking at me.

You never have enough primer, I mean I have try some that are good but I wasn't truly satisfied on the smoothing part.

The texture is extreeeeemely soft and has a powdery finish. It has a bit of a "flower" smell, which is not that bad but without it, it would have been even better.

It is translucent and really smoothing. It does give an "airbrush" finish and because good pictures are worth a million words...

let me introduce you...TO THE SWATCHES.

Before the application.

And right after.

I mean... the product is pure magic. It has such a big difference in the before/after.

Can you see that all the "hand wrinkles" have disappeared. SWEET LORD THIS IS AMAZING.

I'm not sure it does help the makeup lasts longer but it does smooth, that's for sure.

The only downer in my opinion is that it has tiny tiny sparkles in it. SO NOT necessary for a primer.

That was my little cosmetic discovery of the week :)

XO,Marilou

My first video : Quick daily makeup

2011-11-19T02:29:00.004+01:00

YAY! I'm now on youtube, my channel is Mypreciousnp

My first video is a Quick daily makeup. Nothing too crazy but I really enjoyed doing it so let me know if you have any makeup video request :)

Hope you like it!

XO, Marilou

On my nails a lot lately : Give me moor

2011-11-18T22:26:00.003+01:00

Dark nails are my favourites. Summer, winter... it doesn't matter, it's always on the top of my "most worn varnish list". (Yes, I do mentally write list for my fav varnishes. Who is gonna enter the top 3 next week? It creates a little bit of suspense in my life). I'm a huge Lincoln park after dark kinda girl. For those of you reading this and thinking..whaaaaat? It's of Lauren Conrad's favorite color of nail polish from OPI. It's a gorgeous deep , really deep dark plum. It doesn't have that harsh black goth finish and it is so chic (obviously if worn by LC) . I started to be low on Lincoln park after dark and I couldn't find it anywhere. It was sold out so I had to act quick and act smart.

So, this how I got my hands on Give me moor by OPI. My life saver dupe !

As said, it is a deep dark plum shade.

Three coats were necessary to reach this level of intense plumpness and opacity.

Good application and it lasts well, thanks to the fab OPI quality.

FYI, it's the only kind of colour that I don't get bored of. I can wear this over and over again, It will never disappoint and goes with pretty much everything (because yes I do also pay attention to match my varnish with my clothes....OCD much?) and you can't go wrong with dark shades.

Definitely a must have shade in your nail polish stash for those days when you feel like your nail polish closet is empty and you have nothing to wear. Just like the the Little Black Dress, the Little Dark Varnish won't let you down!

XO, Marilou

Just in case you were having a bad gloomy day.

2011-11-14T23:51:00.001+01:00

XO, Marilou

Mon petit guide des pinceaux

2011-11-13T15:12:00.003+01:00

Suite à un commentaire d'une lectrice francophone (oui je lis tous les commentaires même si je ne réponds pas touuuujours) sur le ou-quoi -comment-pourquoi des pinceaux à maquillage, je me suis dit que c'était le moment propice d'écrire un article en français.

Je dois avouer que je me tape parfois des maux de têtes à écrire des articles en anglais avec tout ce vocabulaire technique ultra élaboré de beautista du genre blending, outter lid corner et compagnie. It's not always easy OKAY. Soit...donc je disais, je suis loin de posséder une gamme extraordinaire de pinceaux et je dois dire que je reviens de loin. Je me souviens encore très bien de l'époque ou j'appliquais mon fard à paupières avec les doigts. Sans base bien sur (Quitte à être totalement inconsciente autant y aller à fond) Puis avec les années, j'ai découvert qu'il y avait une quantité folle de pinceaux différents. Bon je sais que ce serait bien plaisant de tous les posséder pour se la jouer makeup artist en backstage de défilé de mode, mais perso je suis pas sure que ce soit vraiment nécessaire pour un makeup de base. (Genre le pinceaux spécial creux des joues..heu ouais, on s'en passera) Niveau prix et marques, j'ai un peu été piocher à gauche à droite et étonnamemnt parfois le moins cher, le plus efficace et le plus apprécié. COMME QUOI !

Pinceaux fond de teint :

Au début, il est vrai que j'étais une adepte du j'applique mon fond de teint avec les doigts. Cette technique n'est pas mauvaise, elle permet de mieux "faire fondre" le fond de teint dans la peau et donne une couvrance assez naturelle selon le dosage. N'aimant pas trop avoir les mains recouvertes de fond de teint, j'ai dit STOP et j'ai testé le pinceau plat. J'avais acheté un kit de pinceaux The Bodyshop, Sympa pour découvrir un peu le monde du pinceau mais sans plus. Kit de la grosse noob du pinceau quoi. Le pinceau plat du kit n'étant pas vraiment top, je ne serais trop vous conseiller ce modèle (à gauche). Ceci dit je sais qu'il en existe (chez mac par exemple) de bien meilleure qualité et qui donne un fini plutôt sympa.

Mon méga coup de coeur niveau pinceau à fond de teint, se trouve à droite de la photo, et il s'agit du pinceau Sigma Flat Kabuki = Poil synthétique, prix abordable, qualité de dingue, application de rêve, douceur incomparable, densité, efficacité...bref... le top du top.

On peut se le procurer en ligne. (http://www.sigmabeauty.com) Attention il existe plusieurs sortes de Kabuki chez Sigma. Le plus adapté pour l'application du fond de teint est le "FLAT".

Je l'utilise tous les jours, c'est véritablement mon pinceau fétiche pour me créer un teint irréprochable de poupée russe.

Le Kabuki pinceau visage:

Oui, oui, encore un kabuki. Celui ci est court et sa fonction est l'application de la poudre. Poudre bronzante, poudre matifiante, poudre libre, poudre compacte, poudre illuminatrice...N'importe.

Il se veut dense. Très dense et doux. Malheureusement ce n'est pas toujours le cas. Je me souviens encore de mon tout premier kabuki. Un bourjois couleur marron, qui au bout de 2 mois d'utilisation avait viré poil d'hérisson et m'irritait la peau. Je me voyais mal casquer 50 euros pour un kabuki Dior mais en même temps je me voyais mal continuer à me torturer le visage. Je suis tombée sur le Kabuki ELF (la marque so cheap dont tout le monde raffole) Je vous avoue j'étais un peu dubitative à l'idée qu'un pinceau à 5 euros allait combler mes attentes, mais j'étais aussi un peu désesperée. BINGO, ce fut les 5 euros les mieux dépensés de toute ma vie. Ce kabuki est juste ridiculement fabuleux. Cela doit faire un an que je l'utilise, tous les jours, que je le lave, il est toujours comme neuf. Il est d'une douceur folle, il n'a pas perdu de poils et donc est toujours aussi dense. Avec lui, l'application de ma poudre bronzante est un vrai plaisir. Je me surprends même à me faire des doudouces avec dans le cou. SO DESPERATE I KNOW. Donc voilà, si toi aussi, tu es à la recherche d'un kabuki par cher et vraiment vraiment efficace, le elf studio est pour toi ! En plus le kabuki visage c'est un peu THE pinceau basique à avoir dans sa trousse.

Pinceaux fard à joues / blush :

Must have dans sa trousse : Le pinceau blush. Il est en effet assez difficile d'appliquer du blush avec les doigts (à part le blush crème). J'utilise le Sigma Angled Kabuki (à gauche). Traduction pour les plus nulles en anglais, le pinceau biseauté qui est censé épousé la forme de votre délicate joue bien dodue.

Tout comme le pinceau Sigma à fond de teint, il est doux, il est efficace. Je trouve ceci dit que les poils manquent de fermeté et cela rend l'application moins extra top qu'esperé. Mais bon, cela reste un très bon pinceau!

J'utilise aussi un pinceau "normal" à blush de la marque Clinique (à droite) qui à bien vécu. Le poil n'est pas très soyeux mais cela reste un pinceau décent.

Le pinceau un peu inutile mais qu'on aime quand même :

J'avais reçu un kit trio de pinceaux SIGMA Kabuki, et celui ci était le troisième.

Il ressemble aux autres mais je vous jure il est différent. Il est plus petit, ses poils sont plus fermes et il a un bout arrondi. Je ne suis pas trop sure de son utilisation première donc je l'utilise un peu en freestyle quand je me sens inspirée. Un jour pour le blush, un jour pour le correcteur, un jour pour me caresser la main. Je pense qu'il est plus avantageux d'acheter le trio pinceaux que de les acheter séparemment. Maintenant tout dépend de votre swag de pinceaux actuel. Si vous n'en avez pas un seul, ca pourrait être un bon début.

Les pinceaux must have pour fard à paupières :

Niveau fard à paupières, je sais que le choix d'un premier pinceau peut être cornélien.

Perso, je pense qu'il est bien d'avoir un pinceau plat mais dense et bien condensé. Cela permet une meilleure maitrise de l'eyeshadow qui s'avère parfois bien volatile.

J'utilise le pinceau ELF et le pinceau MAC #239 (le blanc).

Les deux sont vraiment très bons, la seule différence sera au niveau du prix. 1 euro pour le pinceau elf, plus de 20 euros pour le pinceau mac. Là, tout dépend de votre envie d'investir ou pas dans un pinceau.

Les pinceaux eyeliner :

Là aussi, le choix est large. Perso j'utilise depuis un petit temps le pinceau MAC biseauté #263 qui est à la base un pinceau à sourcil. C'est vrai qu'il n'est pas ce qu'il y a de mieux pour appliquer de l'eyeliner mais bon j'ai réussi à le dompter et à le manier avec l'âge. Sa forme biseauté facilite réellement l'application du liner sur la paupière mobile. Au plus ferme sera le pinceau, au plus facile sera l'application de l'eye liner. SACHEZ-LE. Sinon vous pouvez aussi utiliser un pinceau à poil court et droit. Je trouve l'application plus difficile par sa forme mais il n'est pas mal pour l'intérieur de l'oeil. LA MUQUEUSE INTERNE . (Berk ce mot me dégoute).

Les pinceaux "on-sait-vivre-sans" mais ca l'fait de les avoir :

Bon alors je vous avoue que je ne connais pas tous les noms exacts de ces pinceaux. Je sais comment les utiliser, certes, mais après..... ALORS LA. De gauche à droite :

1) Le pinceau qui permet d'appliquer le fard à paupières dans le creux de la paupière mobile. Il permet de donner un effet plus intense. 2) Le pinceau correcteur. Pour appliquer le correcteur sur des zones ciblées un peu dures d'accès du genre creux du nez et de camoufler toutes nos vilaines imperfections. 3) Le pinceau touffu. Ouais, quel joli surnom. En gros je l'utilise pour un effet eyeshadow moins intense. Il permet une meilleure diffusion du fard à paupières par sa touffosité.

4) Un peu le même genre de que le numéro 3. Dense et vaporeux, il permet un fini plus naturel.

5) Le pinceau tout plat pour fard à paupières. Il est assez fin et trop "lisse". Je le trouve horrible pour appliquer mes fard à paup' (YEAH). Je me devais de terminer cet article sur une mauvaise note. Mouhihi.

Voilà, après bon ben il reste évidemment des tonnes d'autres pinceaux, pour les lèvres, pour les sourcils etc. Je n'en vois pas toujours l'utilité. Trève de blabla, j'espère que cet article à intéresser quelqu'un parce que ca fait une heure que je planche dessus. Mais c'est pour la bonne cause! ;-)

XO, Marilou

On repeat lately

2011-11-13T11:07:00.002+01:00

Lana del Rey - Video Games

Goyte ft Kimbra - Somebody that I used to know
(the video is too awkward to watch but I can't get this song out of my head)

XO, Marilou

Tough night make up of the day.

2011-11-10T00:39:00.004+01:00

First of all, I wanna thank you all for letting such sweet comments and showing support on my last post! It really was so kind and heartwarming! After such an awful night/day I had to bring back my crazy tired ass at uni. My face was looking a bit swollen and discomfited from all the crying and sadness so I had to get my secret weapon out to look back to normal : MAKE UP.

I'll be forever grateful for the man that ever created that, seriously.

My favourite recipe for a fresh face after a tough night is good foundation + bare eyelids + good mascara + ton of different blushes (the more, the merrier) + pinky nude lips and there you are all spruce and dapper.

I love going a bit heavier on the blush on such occasions, to get that fresh finish and most important, try to get the focus away from the puffy eyes.

I used the following products :

Bourjois Healthy Mix foundation Serum - Vanilla

Nars Duo - Orgasm/Laguna

Sleek au naturel collection blush

Maybelline pure mineral blush in quartz peach

My good ol' Lashblash mascara

and Mac snob lippie.

XO, Marilou

Goodbye Vigo

2011-11-08T18:49:00.004+01:00

This is not the regular beauty, nail polish post. But isn't a blog also a place where you can share your life ups and downs after all? Sadly, my old doggy dog of 15 years , Vigo, died last night in our arms, literally. He was old and grumpy but I loved him with all my heart. Some people do find it weird that you can actually love your pet. Well, unless you have had a dog, you can't understand. He was part of my daily life, our family and one of the first thing I did every morning was to go check on him. I have him since I was 8 and now the house feels a bit empty. Last night was tearful and a bit desorienting to say the least. At least he didn't die alone, we were with him.

I truly cherish all the memories with him and I like to think he is now in dog heaven, swimming in a pool full of meatballs.

I already miss him.
Love always.

On my nails today : Sapphire Moon

2011-11-07T20:02:00.000+01:00

Today I'm wearing the gorgeous sapphire Moon by Rituals.

Yes Rituals has a nail polish range with tons and tons of shades! I got this as a little prezzie for my bday from my very dear friend Mathilde :) How sweet. I'm not very hard friend to pleased, you know I'll always be happy to get a nail polish!

It comes in the cutest little box!

She choose a gorgeous shade that I didn't already had in my varnish stash. I would describe the shade as a deep shimmery night blue. I love dark shades so I knew I would love this, now the question was wether or not the quality was au rendez vous! Well, it was to say the least. Two coats were enough to get an even coverage, the texture was quite good and I had a chipping free day! Hooray.

I love that at the back of the bottle you can read : contains pure Ruby.

HOW FANCY!

There is the swatch. I've tried my best to capture the shimmer!

I'll never ever get tired of wearing dark nail polishes. They always come out so chic and sophisticated!

What do we think ladies ?

XO, Marilou

Don't be jell...

2011-11-07T15:58:00.001+01:00

Look what I just go in my box mail !

Wee hee. The lovely Marie-Anne who went to Essex recently got me this lovely and impromptu present. REEM isn't it ?

Thank you so much Marie-Anne! Une petite casse-dédi sur mon blog juste pour toi :) ♥

XO, Marilou

My first experience with Xen Tan self tanners

2011-11-07T00:37:00.005+01:00

After self tanninf myself for the first time this summer with St Moriz, I knew I had to try something else.

Not because I wasn't pleased with my St Moriz but because I had heard soooooo much about these Xen Tan products, I was dying to get my hands on this brand. They're a tad more expensise than the other brands, but when you go on the website and read all these blog reviews , I swear that at the end of the day you are so ready to splash the cash ! I'm not living in the UK so this was not easy to find but I did eventually on the website Feelunique , which sells a tremendous amount of products and brands with free delivery. Yay to that. I went with the Face Tanner Luxe in Dark and the dark lotion for the body. I picked Dark because I really wanted a deep tan. My motto when it comes to self tanner is...go deep tan or stay pale. I like it extreme baby! Anywoo....After some issues with the delivery I finally got my parcel!

My first impression was "oh wow it's small!" .

I don't know why, but on blog pictures it seems much taller than it actually is! But no worries it does last pretty long....

The dark lotion : After all the hype, I was expecting something really mindblowing from this self tanner. I must admit that I was rather disappointed. I don't know if it has something to do with me or not but the product didn't seem to stick properly onto my skin. I literally felt like spongebob, soaking all the product in and left with a very light tan in the morning. Some parts of my body would go really deep gorgeous dark (like my arms) and other parts like my tummy, chest, legs etc would stay lighter. HOW ODD? I did really love the colour it took on my arms though, it was lovely yet I don't know why It wasn't even on my entire body . The smell was ok, I'm not a huge fan of the whole marzipan thing. It's not repulsive but I'm just not a fan. The application was fine but I did find that my mousse application with St Moriz was much easier to blend it. Overall, this wasn't a self tanner I really enjoyed using. I only used it to touch up between applications... I don't think I'll rebuy this anytime soon, perhaps my expectations were a little too high which made the disappointment bigger than it should had been.

The face tanner luxe : After trying a sample of the xen tan face tanner this summer, I knew I had to get this one as well. It gives an instant (well, not really. it takes 3 hours to fully develop) glowy tan to the face. I wasn't disappointed with this product as I was with the body lotion. I use it every two-three days, on a freshly cleaned face just after applying my moisturizer in the morning. Even with my foundation on, it gives me that extra tan needed. The smell is not my favourite but once again, totally bearable. It did leave some orange streaks on my eyebrows If too much were applied. As I wash my face twice a day, the tan doesn't last long at all, so I did have some white face / tanned body awkward moment.

Body wise I'll not be repurchasing Xen tan as I was quite disappointed with the lotion, face wise I'll stick to my face luxe tanner which is in my opinion a great product definitely worths the £ !

Were you disappointed with the dark body lotion as well ? Or am I just alone in that case...

Let me know :)

XO, Marilou

Jerseylicious smokey

2011-11-03T12:03:00.000+01:00

After soaking myself into the jersey culture by watching a tremendous hours of tv shows like Jersey Shore, The Real Housewives of NJ and Jerseylicious , I've been very tackily inspired by all the makeup going on. My inspiration today was Olivia from Jerseylicious.

She is the supposebly "smokey goddess" of the salon. Tacky all the way, here we come !

Let's be honest, I would never wear something similar to go out. This was just a fun thing to do in my PJ's this morning, to go wacky before getting all serious with my uni assignements.

I'm not a fan of the whole white eyeshadow til the brows thingy.

The recipe for a good jerseylicious smokey = Falsies + white / metallic grey / black eyeshadow combo + tons of bronzer + pink lipgloss

From Jersey with love!

Would you wear a similar smokey ?

I won't but it was fun doing it, I love experimenting with makeup.

XO, Marilou

L'Oréal Super Liner Carbon Gloss eye liner

2011-10-30T18:28:00.002+01:00

I'm more of a cream liner kinda girl. I like the brush application and the texture is just easier to apply in my opinion. However, I'm on the permanent hunt of a new and better liner. *eternal unfulfillment*I've read many positive reviews about the L'Oréal Super Liner in Carbon Gloss, which is a special category apparently although to me all the L'Oréal eye liner look the same. It's like the whole thing Maybelline loves to do with launching 4 mascaras with the same brush but with a different packaging. A bit boring but...anywaysI decided I had to get my hands on this little baby but after days and days of restless search around different Brussels drugstore, I couldn't find the carbon gloss version. My desire became an obsession. I HAD to get this Carbon Gloss liner.

Eventually I got my hands on it after a UK swap and I'm so glad I did.The liner is very thin and soft which makes the application a bit harder. If you're not handy with your eyeliner, this will be a disaster to work with but if you know how to apply it, it gives you the finest yet strongly defined line.

The liner lasts and doesn't smudge.

You may need two coats for an even application.

I'm always pleasantly surprised with the result. It's a good eye liner for a daily basis (if you're steady) as it gives a very thin "natural" finish. I'm a bit afraid it will dry quickly though.... only time will tell!

Typical face of the day at uni !

XO , Marilou

On my nails today : American Apparel - Neon Red

2011-10-29T18:21:00.002+02:00

I'm absolutely in love with American Apparel's nail polishes so when I knew they were launching a NEON range I was sooooo excited. I got two of their shades and today I'm wearing Neon Red. Neon Red is as its name implies it, a red neon shade. I have to say I have loads of red nail polishes, but I had never seen a neon red colour before (or I'm blind as a bat).

The colour is just indefinable. It has a red tone mixed with some orange and pink undertones.

With my camera , the orange comes out really intense but I promise you, you can find some pink undertones in there, which makes this nail polish so special.

It is not a bright or rrrrreally bright nail polish. No! It is a pure rich deep neon just like we love them....Weee heee! I bless American apparel for coming out with these babies.

What do we think over this colour ladies?

Are you into the whole Neon thing even though it's fall already.

Personally, I think a good old neon is always welcome on my nails.

XO , Marilou

Chanel - Rouge Coco Shine 54 Boy

2011-10-26T22:45:00.003+02:00

Believe it or not, this is my first Chanel lipstick. I was offered this precious little gem for my birthday from my dear friend Siham :) Usually I tend to go Mac when choosing a lippie so this was a good and exciting surprise! I got the colour 54 Boy from the Rouge Coco Shine range.

The packaging is so sleek and classy. Something to carry around in your make up bag, for sure!

The Coco Shine range is to be very discreet.

The colour 54 is a dusty pink, filled with tiny shimmers.

It's not very opaque so do not expect a Mac über covering satin finish.
It has more of a glossy natural finish.

It's delicate and very ladylike. The texture is rather moisturizing but I do no find it to have a long lasting power.

It smells like grown woman lipstick and looks very sophisticated. I feel all grown up when wearing it ! I had many compliments because I usually wear nude colours all the time, so this is a good alternative :)
The finish is glossy yet doesn't have that sticky feeling.

I still can't get use to swatching my lips. They look horrendously awkward and wrinkly.

I want Scarjo lips. NOW

Ooh Chanel how I love you.

What do we think ladies?

xo MARILOU

Estée Lauder - Double Wear foundation ♥

2011-10-25T19:59:00.005+02:00

I finally caved in ! I'm the happy owner of Estée Lauder -Double Wear foundation after a year of discussions with myself (very intertaining thing to do if you are bored...) whether I should buy it or not, if it was a foundation for me....or not and so on.

What I was looking for : A LONG LASTING foundation. That's the major point. Having a bit of a trouble with my skin, it's very rare that I'm secure about my foundation all day long. It nevers stays still and after a few hours I (feel like) I look like a mess. My pores are back to eye visibilty (ew ew ew) and I do not feel that covering sensation needed any longer. I've tried every make up bases but nothing seemed to work for me. So I caved in after a little poll on twitter :-)

The shade picking was restless. They were few shades available and I eventually went for the lightest available FRESCO 01 in store which is still a tad dark in comparison to my other foundations. But hopefullyonce blended in, you can't tell. I know they are more shades available though but why weren't they available in any store (in the area round Brussels) ? Mystery...

At the very first outset, the texture is quite thick and scary. You think you're gonna get all cakey but once well blended into the skin, this feeling goes away. The coverage is truely one of the best coverage I've ever experienced. Amazing if you're trying to hide some scars, pores or blemishes... Maybe a bit too much if you're more of a natural finish lover. It worked wondrously well for me but the best part is...the long lasting power. It genuinely stays put all day long. I have had no longer insecurities about how my full of foundation face looked like since then. Well obviously, if you're going to rub your face in yours hands all day (which can happen when being 1) exhausted 2) really mad 3) playing peek a boo) don't expect it to last☺

I'm so happy I finally took the plunge and got the foundation, it is perfect for fall/winter time as you may need more corevage. It has SPF10 in it, which it said to give a ghosty face when taking pictures. I haven't had that issue yet but I'm a bronzer whore so...

You need this product if you are looking for a genuine long lasting foundation with a rather thick coverage and a spf10. The only downer for me was the lack of a pump.

Hope you are all doing well!

PS: "La vie devant soi" has been my motivational quote for the last weeks when dealing with my new age. 23 isn't that bad after all ! :)

Bisous, Marilou!

New ring do obsession. Totally Phoebe Buffay inspired.

2011-10-18T21:08:00.004+02:00

I clearly have been watching way too much episodes of f.r.i.e.n.d.s lately :)

#faketanproblem the awkward moment when your skin looks like a leprous lizard

2011-10-16T21:26:00.009+02:00

If you ever fake tanned or are currently a fake tan addict you MUST have experienced this , like I love to call it, leprous lizard awkward moment when you skin is literally looking so disgraciously tanned (It doesn't help having chubby fingers ) and people are asking that mocking *oh what's happening ?* and you are forced to admit that you are using self tanner. As much as I love being tanned , I can NOT stand these patches. Due to dryness or lack of scrubing, they seem inevitable.

What is my ritual and what products am I using to fight those awkward patches ?

1. SCRUB YOURSELF AWAY.

I can not repeat that enough. You need to scrub yourself away to avoid the unavoidable or at least to play down the nasty fake tan patchy effect. This is something I've learned by myself as I was such a fake tan newbie and you live and you learn with your mistakes. *How deep was that*

I'm currently using my Energising Body Scrub by Liz Earle.

Yes, the wet effect was done on purpose to give a more energising touch to the picture :D

This product is the most exfoliating exfoliator I have ever used. I mean, you can not compete with such great ingredients : essential oils, ground olive stones, damask rose flower water etc. It definitely is energising and helps me getting rid of these patches. The smell however is not my favourite. Way to "manly" and overpowering.

Make sure you use cute scrubbing accessorize, it makes the shower more fun.

2. MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE and REMOISTURIZE.

Skimping on the moisturizer while fake tanning is suchhhhhhhhh a mistake. Don't be cheap girls!

Not only will it make your tan last longer but also prevent awkward patches.

I'm using sweet almond oil at night (because it is super greasy but leaves you with the most soft skin)

and E45 Lutsine Xeramance (what's with the futuristic name?) every morning.

I've come to the conclusion that fake tanning is actually good for you as you have to pay twice as more attention to your skin, and as far as I know scrubing and moisturizing have never been anything but good treats!

XO, Marilou

What I've been loving lately...

2011-10-15T19:30:00.003+02:00

Bien le bonsoir!

Life has been hectic but in a good way lately so that explains the lack of blogging around although there is so much I want to share. No, I haven't lost my blog mojo!

I am currently looking for an internship. Studying PR and being obsessed with everything beauty related , I would dream to do it in a Beauty PR company obviously. So I'm on the hunt for something. Cross your chubby fingers for auntie Marilou!!!

Lately I've been massively obsessed with four things :

1. Batiste XXL volume dry shampoo

Oh dear god. This product is simply amazing and so handy when it comes to dull hair.

It gives that extra oomph needed and let me with this wonderful volume in my hair.

The hair's texture does become a tad odd but I've managed to get used to it.

The smell is quite particular but not too bothering in my opinion.

Definitely a new must in my hair range products!

2. Red nails.

What can I say. I'm getting older.

Opi - Manicurist of Seville

3. Biotherm replumping and smoothing lip balm.

Who says fall says automatically cold. I can't deal with chapped lips and I needed to find something more glamorous than vaseline to carry around in my bag. This is a new product from Biotherm and so far I really like it. The texture is super smooth it feels like thick butter, the smell is super enjoyable and let you with soft lips.

4. Taupe/khaki smokey eyes.

Mixing multiple eyeshadows is a great passion of mine. I've been playing around with my Sleek Au Naturel palette (using Moss + Dark + Regal ) and this is what came out. I love everything taupey/khaki on my lids during fall.

XO, Marilou

Face of the (gloomy & rainy) day

2011-10-06T15:04:00.001+02:00

One week without blogging. Whaaaaaat ?

I need to get myself together and readapt to uni schedule. I swaer it has been so hard, I've been napping like toddler every day. This is my face today. Loads of bronzer, false lashes, muted lips, big hair... what can I say, #TOWIE is back on TV BABY! I've been very inspired by Lucy and her flawless make-up !

Primer : La Roche Posay - Nutritic moisturizer

Foundation : Liz Earle Skin Sheer Tint 01 Bare

Bronzer : Xen Tan Face tanner luxe + Mac Comfort powder

Blush : Maybelline blush mousse + elf bronzing powder

Lips : Mac -Fleshpot lipstick + Mac - Nymphette lipgloss

Hair : Batiste XXL VOLUME dry shampoo. My new love !

This is Mac Fleshpot lipstick. A lighter, paler, beiger version of Mac Myth.

GOSH, I love this colour to death. This is the perfect nude for me!

Too bad it's not in the regular range but in the PRO store only.

Eeeeek. MASSIVE MOUTH WRINKLE. Botox much ?

Hope you're all well.

XO, Marilou

Sleek Au Naturel collection

2011-09-28T08:32:00.004+02:00

Hi guuuys. I finally got back to college this week and I can tell that this year is going to be nothing but hectic and overwhelming. Oh joy. But I guess that should be a great thing, there is nothing like hectic overwhelming years to feel alive and deeply enjoy your days offs.I'm so glad I got to take a week off to celebrate my b-day, I feel rejuvenated.

From my recent swap, I got the whole Sleek Au Naturel collection.I knew I had to get the whole family the minute I saw swatches online. I'm a big fan of my Naked Palette, I never have enough "nude" eyeshadows and Sleek pigmentation never disappointed me.This collection will be permanent, so do not stress yourself out if you didn't get it and wanted to.

The Blush Suede was hardly swatchable. This is a very natural dark peachy toned blush. And by that, please understand, totally gorgeous. It is very subtle, shimmer free and perfect for these days when I feel a bit daring and go for a heavy smokey eyes and need a lighter blush. This is such a great addition to my blush collection.

The PoutPolish in Bare Minimum which basically is a tinted lip conditionner. This is my first Pout polish from Sleek. I had my eyes on these for so long but I couldn't for a colour to go for. This shade looks peachy but doesn't have that much pigmentation and I could barely see any colour when applied on my lips. It does feel moisturizing but a big downer for me was the smell or should I say taste. I don't know what it is, but the overpowering vanilla thing going on in the Pout polish let a bitter taste in my mouth.

Now onto my favourite item of the collection. The Au Natural Palette. *emotional silence*

As usual it comes in 12 shades but this time they have named their shades, which I thought was a good idea. This palette to me, is perfection.

I am fond of each and everyone of these colours. The pigmentation is as good as I expected. Shimmers, matte, nude, darker colours.... It has everything I've ever dreamed of and more. I was happy with my Storm palette but now I can announce that I can die and go to eyeshadow heaven : I'm fully fulfilled.

Tiny peak (My face just doesn't feel right today) of my FOTD with the tree items.

What are your thoughts on the Au Natural collection?

XO, Marilou

My birthday week celebration in Toulouse

2011-09-24T00:04:00.001+02:00

This week has flown by . I'm back from Toulouse in the South of France where I was to see my dear friend Deborah and celebrate my 23th birthday !I had the BEST TIME, it's so good to catch up with friends you haven't seen in a while and feel like it was yesterday, nothing changed !

Toulouse is such a beautiful city, very charming with a sunny weather. What else could you ask for to celebrate your birthday ?

At the Bibent restaurant were you get serve such delicious french food

I had to get some back up of my favourite skin care products knowing that its half the price than in Belgium there. Woo hoo.

Having some girl time = depotting mac eyeshadows !!!!

And voila! Brand new palette.

La Garonne.

Last picture as a 22.

First picture as a 23. A YOUNG LADY SHOULD I SAY. haha.

Cheers to me!

Night out

My bday cake. Nom nom.

That's pretty much everything we did during a week.

Laughing, gossiping and eating.

I had so much fun!

Thank you all for the bday wishes on twitter :)

XO , Marilou

On repeat

2011-09-19T09:15:00.000+02:00

V.V Brown - Game Over

It's my birthday week celebration and I'm heading to South of France .

I'll probably keep posting from there :)

Toodles!!!

Marilou

On my nails today : Dusky Mauve

2011-09-17T21:29:00.003+02:00

I was lusting after Chanel - Paradoxal for sooo many months but I couldn't justify paying 20€ for a colour that I'm probably going to be weary about very quickly. I went for the Barry M dupe. Oh how I love dupes especially when they are reallllyyyy similar to the actual colour you were looking for. This one didn't disappoint ! It's such a pretty colour, it's unique , sophisticated and original. I can't find anything similar in my current nail polish stash. I'm a sucker for dark nails, so I can definitely see myself wearing this all fall long ! Hard to describe though, it's a purple-greyish with some blue undertones and tiny shimmers. I went three coats because I have a bit of a three coat OCD but two coats were enough to get an opaque coverage. Barry M really has a great quality for such cheap prices!

What do we think ladies ?

XO, Marilou

My first swap !

2011-09-15T14:41:00.000+02:00

When the lovely Siobhan from http://www.agirlandabeautyblog.com/ twitted that was willing to do a swap I immediately jumped on the occasion and went as a candidate. Belgium doesn't have much to offer for people from the Uk makeup wise, as they pretty much have everrrrrry thing but hopefully we managed to find some brands :)

This was my first swap, I just got my package and I'm just BEYOND HAPPY.

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek" is the sound that came out of my mouth when seeing the package at my door.

Cutest box...

...filled with goodies from the UK = ☺

A litte peak at my swap goodies .

Thank you so much Siobhan for being so patient and buying me all these stuffs.

I mean, you even added GLITTER IN THE BOX. You're a diamond girl !

Reviews and swatches to come :)

XO,Marilou

Nars Albatross

2011-09-13T21:55:00.002+02:00

This was my first Nars purchase back in the days. At first I wasn't too sure about this highlighter. It comes out as a white pearly gold pressed powder and this might a bit intimidating at first but once you get use to it and knows how to use it correctly, it gives the most gorgeous highlight ever. I say how to use correctly because it has a bit of a gold yellow finish that might look so "new year's eve" over the top.

A little close-up to give you a better idea.

And swatched.

You can really see the gold finish I told you about ( I went heavy hand on the swatch!)

This highlighter is one of a kind, I own nothing similar or even close.It was definitely worth running around London for an hour from Selfridges to Liberty of London to get my hands on it because it was pretty much sold out everywhere!

I'm not sure this highlighter would work with everyskin tone though... It's very special.

Have you ever tried Albatross? Thoughts on it ??

XO, Marilou

On my nails today : Punchy Pink

2011-09-11T21:38:00.000+02:00

"GO NEON OR GO HOME".

This, ladies, is my new nails motto. I'm all about the neon these days.

I used to wear my Punchy Pink by Essie only during my vacays on my toes but for a change I wore it on my nails with falsies on.

A bit tacky but I find the result so girly and gorgeous. I can't stop staring at my nails!

As you can see in the pictures below, it's extreeeemely bright (the flash made it look brighter though)

It's a plain pink with a matte finish (yuck) so a good shiny top coat is needed.

I was so amazed when seeing the result on camera that I took gazillion of pictures.

3 coats were needed here !

My false nails are from Nailene. I love these babies to death, they're just the simpliest way of getting false nails not looking too fake and cheap in 10 minutes.

With natural light. *______* ( In awe face)

Glory to neon! My next neon purchase will be a yellow by American Apparel :)

Do you like my nails today ?

XO, Marilou

Liz Earle - Sheer skin tint

2011-09-10T12:13:00.007+02:00

It's a skin thing ladies! I was extremely excited to get the opportunity to try the Liz Earle Sheer Tint . I worship Liz Earle skin care range = pure happiness concentrate for the skin, so try to picture my excitment when I heard that a make-up range was coming out. This was the only thing missing in this brand.

Described at "the natural bridge from skincare through colour", Liz Earle will be releasing very soon their new Sheer Tint. What it says : "It is rich and creamy like a foundation, yet so lightweight it glides effortlessly onto the skin, blending easily to enhance natural skin tones. Designed for use all year round, our unique, high perfomance formulation leaves skin looking dewy, even and radiant, with the perfect level of coverage for every woman to achieve naturally beautiful skin"

The packaging is very sleek yet simple . It comes in a tube which is very convenient when it comes to foundation.

It contains mineral UV SPF 15 , which is a great thing as I always forget to apply my sunscreen first in the morning, natural source vitamin E, avocado and borage. I can't tell you how excited I am about the Vitamin E and avocado. These are ingredients I firmly believe are genuinely good for your skin and that you can use with no moderation whatsoever. So basically, a foundation that provides skin benefits = so far, so good !

It comes in 3 shades, I went for the lightest 01 Bare for these days when I just want to go not out so made up yet with my skin looking fresh and glowy (I've become addicted to wearing something on my skin , whether it is heavy foundation or light tinted moisturizer).

What I thought : When first swatched on my hand, it felt really rich and heavy, kind of like a concealer. When blended, *blown away face* it went from heavy to super lightweighted. The application onto the face was really pleasant, I used my fingers for once. You get a sheer to medium coverage finish that you can easily build up by applying an other layer of the Sheer Tint on disgracious part of your face . (Hello disgusting pores!)

You get a real dewy finish. I mean this is the dewiest finish I have ever got with a foundation. It's a good thing for me as I love dewy finish but this might feel so over the top dewy for a more oily skin. It has a bit of a smell that is not your usual Liz Earle botanical smell but it's very subtle and it disappears once applied onto the skin. I find this Sheer Tint different from my other foundations and I really like the result! I've been wearing it for the last three days and it lasts all day with a good make-up base (I use my La Roche Posay Nutritic) . It has not dry my skin out at all, it feels actually more moisturized, great news for my dry patches!

(Yes, finally a new hair colour , I went straight back to brunette!)

Sheer Skin Tint will be available from september 15th and retails at £21 available here

Will you be getting this Sheer SkinTint ? If you're excited about the new make-up range coming soon, clap your hands ! *clap clap clap clap clap *

Xo , Marilou

China Glaze - In The City

2011-09-09T15:17:00.003+02:00

This is one of the nail polish I've ordered from the Metro Collection by China Glaze.

This is a purple smokey grey glittery varnish, with very tiny tiny glitters. Nothing massive.

I'm actually quite disappointed with this colour. I was expecting something way more stunning and I find the result a bit "blah". When in the bottle, it is super mesmerizing but once applied it losts that "sparkle".

I haven't wear it since I bought it, I'm just not super excited about what it looks like on my nails.
Even after FOUR coats, the insensity of the glitters wasn't au rendez vous. Ughh

Sad , because I was beyond happy to get my hands on this one. It happens ... that's the risk you take when ordering online !

I've been looking for an other massive glitter nail polish from Models Own called Silver Spangle but I can't seem to find it anywhere, even on their website (although they are swatches online)

Does anyone know where I could get it ? That's would be really helpful :)

XO,Marilou

La Roche Posay Nutritic ♥

2011-09-07T07:56:00.008+02:00

This "transforming care for dry skin" as it is fancily called is now part of my skin care regime for about three weeks now. La Roche Posay is with Avène and Liz Earle, in my top 3 skin care brand.

Although lately I have been a little bit disappointed with La Roche Posay when using their Toleriane.

I have a weird skin combination : dry patches at some very specific spots like my nose, my forehead and the right part of my chin (specific, I told ya) and the rest of my skin is from normal to oily (depends on the time of the year, the weather and god knows what else). I finally know why I was disappointed with Toleriane. It wasn't adapted to my skin combination as it is a cream made to help sensitive skin = it has no specific moisturizing power. That's the trick with skin care products, you can easily be disappointed if you're not using the right product for YOUR skin combination that's why It is primordial for you to know your skin combination. It can be confusing findinf exactly what you really are, at first you may think you're an oily skin and finding ten years later that you actually were a dry skin mixed with oily T-zone skin. I'm telling you, you have to come out of the closet, It's OK to be a dry patches mixed combination skin person. LOL. Anyways, enough endless skin care theory.... back to my Nutritic review.

There are two Nutritic available in store. The 2,5% and the 5% , which determines they moisturizing intensity. I went with the 2,5% after hesitating for hours with the 5%. I was looking for a day cream that was lasting and really deeply moisturizing. I can't stand dry patches and wearing foundation always seems to emphasize that dryness issue. I'm happy I went with the "lighter" one eventually because it is extremelyyyyy moisturizing. I'm saving the 5% one for the cold, oh so cold winter coming.

I've been seduced by the first application, it relieved my skin in no time. The texture is creamy and smooth. The smell is very "pharmaceutical" like, which doesn't bother me. After using my Nutritic I have no more tightness uncomfortable feeling nor dry patches. That moisturizing feeling lasts all day long and hasn't letting me down so far.

But I guess the best part of this product, the cherry on the cake is that it is the best makeup base I have EVER USED. Hands down. It has helped my foundation lasting wayyy much longer than usual, I'm total amazed with this product. It feels like it creates a moisturizing barrier between my skin and my makeup. I don't have that feeling that my skin is soaking the life away of my make-up anymore (disguting feeling, yes). It has fulfilled my expectations and much more.

The price was around 17 € for 40ml which was the only "bad" part, I find it a bit expensive but I'll definitely rebuy this product as long as I'm as satisfied as I am now with it. My skin happiness has no price ☺

I had to share my latest skin care discovery with you, as I'm always looking for skin improvement, I thought this might help some of you.

Toodles :)

Marilou

On my nails today : Trendsetter

2011-09-04T10:09:00.001+02:00

The most unique colour I own. Trendsetter from the Metro Collection by China Glaze.

A light olive green/camel with some tiny gold glitters. Such a weird yet stunning colour in my opinion.

China Glaze always come with the best quality and have wildest range of colours.

*Boldness and uniqueness ALERT*

And on my ears today ☺

My big fat chunky "vintage" earrings from Forever 21.

XO,Marilou

Myth lipstick ♥

2011-09-02T17:40:00.001+02:00

My all time favourite nude lipstick by Mac.

I remember the first time I swatched it, the texture, the smell, the colour : everything I was looking for!

Myth is one of those lipstick. You love it or you hate it, but nothing in between.

I would describe it as a peachy-beige colour with a satin finish.

I adore the Mac satin finish texture but *danger* it can really look chalky on dry lips.

I have bought countless bottles of this lipstick, but I can't recommand it to everyone.

Go for it if you're an unnatural pale lips lover :)

I usually wear it with a lipgloss on top.

What's your ultimate nude lipstick ?

XO, Marilou

Bergen - A pop up book exhibition opening

2011-09-01T23:33:00.003+02:00

Tuesday I've been to the opening of an exhibition in Brussels with some very talented Norvegian fashion designers. T-Michael (who was very kind !!!), Hansen, Norwegian Rain etc. It was very interesting as we don't heard about novergian fashion a lot, which is a shame !

I went with two friends and we had a very pleasant evening :)

Random picture of my friend Vanessa. I just love the whole boubou hair thing she is wearing!

They were majorly men clothes, the quality and the design were quite impressive.

The great thing is that you can buy any of the items of exposition.

They were also a novergian perfumer : DoubleYou Perfume by Cathrine Røsseland

My favourite part was the little room at the back of the exhibition.

You can't really get the idea in the picture but it was all dark with lighting effect mixed with some of the clothes and ropes.

Back from the event

The exhibition is still up all week long until sunday (inc.) from 10 to 7, place nouveau marché aux grains, 10 (downtown Brussels). It's definitely worth a visit if you're looking for something entertaining to do this week :)

XO, Marilou

A perfect evening

2011-08-30T23:49:00.006+02:00

= spending some quality time with my dad :)

(All together : Awwwwhhhhhhhhh )

Walking around Brussels and taking some random pictures.

This actually is a work of art tree.

Eating the most delicious gyoza at Ebizu, Place Flagey.

Ramen noodles. NOM NOM.

Place Flagey.

Every good meal deserves a good dessert.

Ps : they were whipped cream in the cone as well ☺

My makeup today was very simple : nude lips with a heavier hand on the eyes.

I went for a liner in my waterline, thing I usually NEVER do as I always find it messy by the end of the day, it never stays even. But, I felt pretty daring and I used my Maybelline gel liner and surprisingly it wasn't that bad when I came back home.

Also, I have been invited to an exhibition opening tomorrow with norvegian fashion designers, perfumers etc. = very exciting :)

"Exposition itinérante et pop-up shop norvégien occupera le futur Centre de la Mode et du Design à Bruxelles Du 1er septembre au 5 septembre, le futur Centre de la Mode et du Design accueillera l'exposition conceptuelle itinérante Bergen - A pop-up Book. "

XO,Marilou

My tan routine #faketannewbie

2011-08-28T14:38:00.008+02:00

After reading my fake tan SOS post, the lovely Rachel at Rayisgoodforyou kindly offered to send me some of the famous UK's favourite fake tan for less : St Moriz. Being a fake tan newbie I was so excited and curious to finally see what was all this hype about this miraculous self tanner. I was a little apprehensive as with my past experience fake tan always looks messy and streaky .

Thanks to her I was able to start my new fake tan life, I was well prepared as you can see below.

So this is what Rachel sent me :

♥The St Moriz Mist and Mousse

and as a little treat :

♥A sample of Xen Tan face and body deep bronze luxe + Xen tan glove

♥Hawaaian tropic body butter.

I feel so spoiled, thank you Rachel !!!!!

The Xen Tan deep bronze luxe. As this is a sample size, I use it for my face. The smell is just insane (in a good way). It smells like vanilla cake, you just want to lick the product away, but no you won't because you're not mentally ill.

It's so pleasant to apply this product, it does look dark but once applied it develops nicely and gives the most natural tan with no streak whatsoever. I swear, I am amazed ☺!!! Some Xen Tan are on my way , I made an order and went for the whole dark tan package. I'm super excited to try these body wise!

St Moriz Mist and Mousse.

The Mist is the one I didn't like the most. I just find the application so messy and confusing. You have to do it in your bathtub otherwise it will messed up your floor. It does give a nice streakless tan (if applied correctly) but it's risky and you have to be very careful.

The Mousse on the other hand is just the best self tanner I have ever used. Ok, I haven't used loads of them but STILL, I mean a mousse self tanner? How brilliant. The glove application also made it much easier to work with.

It's über easy to apply, it dries quickly, the fake tan smell is totally bearable, you get not streak whatsoever (if well exfoliated and moisturized) and cherry on the cake it costs about £2,99 for 200ml .
I mean, life doesn't get better than that!

Hands down, this St Moriz Mousse is my new holy grail product. Life does get better with a tan on, I had so many compliments on how glowy and tan I looked. "Where did you go on vacays?" has been the most frequent question asked these past two weeks.

Before.

After

I feel tan-bulous all the way and as Rachel warned me : Once you go fake tan, you can't go back.
Thank you also to everyone that commented on my fake tan issue post and offered to help me out getting some self tanner, I really appreciate :)

XO, Marilou

Keep my swagger keep it looking hood for ya

2011-08-26T19:17:00.001+02:00

I find it difficult to find post title nowadays with the crisis and stuff. (How cool it is to use that pretext for everything going wong in your life) This is what I wore, two days ago when the sun was "shining". This is not an all over your face OOTD picture as I had no one to take a picture of me. *Awkward moment*

My light pink lace shorts from H&M, black blazer and a white tee.

I went for teased hair. Too much Jerseylicious lately, that's the reason why.

Trying not to have the most awkward pose ever. Failed.

I went for a light purply-taupe all over the lid smokey.

With my naked palette of course.

I use it every single day, the possibilites with this palette are endless.

LOVE LOVE LOVE.

Tan-bulous legs. YEAH BUDDY.

XO, Marilou

Quoi de neuf dans l'oeuf ?

2011-08-25T19:37:00.003+02:00

So what's new?

I'm oddly obsessed with Tom Jones at the moment.
(Je rêve ou il ressemble à Nagui ?)

Also I've been wearing loads of loose blouses and shirts. They're my new clothing obsession.

Always with a pair of skinny or a high waisted skirt of course!

This was is from Primark and I just love the colour. It's a dark dirty pink . So different from what I wear usually :)

My mini khaki nail polishes collection. Khaki muddy olive green is prolly my favourite colour to wear fall wise :) The weirdest = the better for me ! I love when people stare at my nails and just go...it's special but I wouldn't wear that. I'm going YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!! (in my mind)

My latest gem is from the Metro Collection - Westside warrior.

A deep olive green. I'm in awe !

Massive thank you to Liz Earle who kindly sent me other products to try. I'll blog about it soon :) (Yes...I always take their packaging in picture. I just love the wrapping ^^ )

By the way, they have a great offer going on at the moment.

"Sensational Smooth Skin Offer : You will receive a complimentary Energising Body Scrub 50ml when you smooth your skin with the Energising Body Lotion 150ml and treat their feet to a little TLC with our intensely exfoliating Foot Scrub 15ml and deeply softening Foot Repair Moisturiser 15ml. The offer is available from 1^st to 31^st August 2011 and costs £25.70- saving you an astonishing £5.35! "

WOO HOO. Who doesn't love a good offer ? You can check it online here.

Who is excited for the new tinted moisturizer coming soon? All that was missing to Liz Earle was some make-up, so this is going to be interesting :)

Also, The millionaire matchmaker is my latest Tv addiction . I just flippin love seing how the dating world goes with some people and you gotta love Patti and her honest mouth

I am doing my tan post by the end of the week, I'm so excited to show you the difference it has made on both my skin and my life LOL.

Bisous! Marilou

On my nails today : Chanel Black Satin

2011-08-20T11:09:00.007+02:00

Black nail polish is my ultimate favourite choice when it comes to picking a varnish.I have hundreds of colours but I always come back to black as I know you can't go wrong when wearing black nail polish.It's elegant with that little glam rock touch.

I have three "black nail polish" rules :

♥Always wears black nail polish on short nails. I've tried on long nails but I've come to the conclusion that I looked like a teen goth.

♥Use a good base coat / top coat, everything you can do to prevent your nail polish from chipping. Chipped black nail polish = the most disguting unclassy thing in the world ☹ (in my opinion)

♥Avoid the matte finish look when it comes to black nail polish. You wanna go shiny. The glossier, the better!

Black Satin by Chanel is the darkest shade of black I own. It's a basic that every girl should own just as the famous LBD.

Have a great day!

XO,Marilou

My hair do saviour : low messy bun

2011-08-19T20:17:00.002+02:00

Today was a low messy bun kind of day = bad hair day.

Well, hello elf's ears.

My hair were just so unmanageable and the weather being humid doesn't help so a low bun is my to-go hair do so I don't have to preoccupate all day long about your hair looking like crap.

When I say messy bun, it's basically ...a real messy bun. I just go whatever within 2 minutes with my hair and try to make it look as effortless as possible but that's not really hard as there were no effort needed for that result. When it's done I pull my hair up a little bit from the bun to give some extra messy volume.

To make it look more glam I made it on the left side.

Makeup wise I went for something really quick and nude.

Well nude..pretty much as usual. I'm a "nude" kinda girl.

Foundation - Nars Sheer Glow in Santa Fe

Bronzer - Nars Laguna

Highlighter - Nars Albatros

Cheeks - Mac Peaches + Mac Lillicent

Lips - Barry M - 101 + Revlon Peach Petal

What's your hair do saviour for bad hair days ?

XO,Marilou

Lately...

2011-08-18T23:28:00.004+02:00

I've been into cute makeup brushes holder.

Homemade pancakes with maple syrup :)

My new mini pedi mani kit from H&M

I can't believe it was 1,99€ Bargain!

I can't get over glitter nail polishes. Glitter nails are so this season. It's gonna be in every nail collection this fall/winter even Essie is getting some glitter (finally!)

My models own Pink Fizz.. I flippin love this little gem!

I'm no longer a fake tan virgin guys!

I've been enjoying my fabulous tan a LOT.

Post to come ;-)

Pizza.pizza.pizzaaaaaa.

Random street. I just love playing around with my camera.

My current Mac blushes collection. I can't believe they are all mate or cream. NO SHIMMER?

I must relieve this situation a.s.a.p

My new triangle earrings from Asos. I'm obsessed , they look so 80's.

XO, MARILOU

These dreams under my pillow...

2011-08-17T07:54:00.000+02:00

Oh Land - White Nights

♥

Marilou

On my nails today

2011-08-15T10:16:00.003+02:00

Models Own - Pink fizz and Opi - Opi Ink

Opi Ink is an incredible yet hard to describe colour. At first it looks like a shimmery purple, then with some lights it turns into this wonderful shimmery blue.

To add a little touch of fun, I went for some massive glitter on my ring nail with Pink Fizz.

I have some of the Metro collection nail polishes by China Glaze coming my way. I can not wait to get them.I'm so over summer nail polishes, all I want is to embrace fall collections. Essie has some gorgeous collections coming!

Have a great day :)

Marilou

Liz Earle to the rescue

2011-08-14T12:33:00.006+02:00

*trumpets* Tu-tu-tututu-tuu-tuuu *trumpets*

My skin was flaking from head to toe and had never felt so moistless when Liz Earle kindly came to my rescue after a tremendous amount of hours spent desperatly looking for products to save my skin from the damages caused by the Tenerife sun. Sun is dangerous kiddies, don't mess with it, especially if you have some ginger genes like me.

I was sent : the Gentle Face Exfoliator to get rid of the dead cells, the Superskin Concentrate to get my moist back face wise and the Superskin Body cream to finally be able to wear skirts without the fear of my legs/arms getting all flaky during the day.

The Gentle Face Exfoliator : (£12,50) I had this very odd idea that the rougher was the exfoliator, the better were the results. Well, I was wrong. You must treat your skin with respect and your skin will give it all back to you. That's my new skin motto :) This exfoliator is everything I was expecting. Gentle yet efficient, my skin feels incredibly smooth and within three days I was finally flakes free. You can use it on a daily basis, it will not dry your skin out.
"With purifying eucalyptus, skin softening cocoa butter (dreamy!), and specially selected jojoba butter" If you already have the Cleanse&Polish from the same range, they smell and look pretty similar packaging wise. My skin looks doubly radiant after using both of them.

A little close-up so you can perceive to consistency .

The Superskin Concentrate: (£18) "With organic roiseship oil, argan oil, neroli oil and natural vitamin E"
Oh my days. This what I call a recipe for success. This is a night-time concentrate little roller-ball pack filled with some of the best oils out there = Christmas for you skin . I'm in love with the smell, which can be overpowering if you don't like essential oils. It penetrates pretty quickly leaving you with a plumpy-comfy feeling. This is such a pleasant product to use. After a good month of use I still have half of the bottle left as a little goes a long way!

The travel size is super easy to carry around but I'm not sure I like the roller-ball that much as I found it difficult to use when the bottle is half empty. I'll rather go for the full size version with a pump.

The Superskin Body Cream : (£27,50) "With shea butter, organic roseship oil, cranberry seed oil, pomegranate extract and neroli oil" This body moisturizer is said to prevent moisture loss and improve skin elasticity to leave your skin visibly plump, smooth and supple. Well this is a very accurate description as this is exactly what it did to my skin. I got my moist back and my skin really felt smooth and plump.

I absolutely love that it is moisturizing yet not sticky. You can apply this in the morning and you're good to go, it doesn't take hours to penetrate and the pleasant moist feeling lasts all day long. (I did check)

The texture is unctuous and goes on so well during the application.

There is one odd thing that happened though. After few weeks of daily use the oils started to separate from the rest of the cream for no reason.

This is what came out of my bottle :

Then this :

But once you shake well the bottle everything goes back in order. Have you ever experienced that with your Superskin Body Cream?

I'm head over heels with my Liz Earle products. I can not recommand this brand enough, they're always filling my high skin expectations. I'm looking forward to trying more of their range, I heard their masks were also super efficient. You can order Liz Earle from their website and the great news is that they ship to Belgium ! All together : glory to Liz Earle :-)

Xo, Marilou

Girls Aloud fake lashes ♥

2011-08-12T16:54:00.005+02:00

You probably already know about the Girls Aloud fake lashes collection by Eyelure.

They're cheap (Belgique : 5,99€ à l'Inno) and look fantastic. My favourite must be the one by Sarah.

They are not as dramatic as the one by Cheryl and you can definitely wear them on a daily basis without looking to overdone.

I agree with her on "wear them all the time", I would too if I had the patience to do it every morning.

I love how a good pair of fake lashes change your eyes in a sec' and because these one are longer at the outer corner they give you the most glamorous cat-eyes ever.

The application was not super easy as I'm not very steady and I had to redo it three times before I was happy with it. I don't like when you see the difference between your lashes and the fake ones so I make sure they are to the closest one from another.

To finish the look, I went for a basic black liner to redefine my top lash line.

I adore how intensely black they are!

And voila! Final result :)

I wish I could wear fake lashes every single day to be honest with you as I absolutely love the result.

XO,Marilou

You make me wanna say I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo

2011-08-11T19:57:00.007+02:00

Today I got my new camera (My dad is the best ☺). I swear I'll never dare making a post with some blurry photobooth pictures ever again, for blog's sake. No need to say that I was a very happy bunny and I couldn't stop taking pictures. It became kind of lame when I started taking pictures of the sidewalk though. Oh, well.

Lately my life hasn't been the most exciting, working 5 hours a day in a department store (makeup counter to be accurrate) in Brussels, studying for the accounting exam that I have to retake and seeing some friends from times to times. I can't wait for september to come around : my birthday, mini trips, indian summer, fall collection... Anyways, I hope you guys will enjoy the new quality of my pictures. It will definitely be very beneficial for my nails and makeup swatches.

WARNING : you're gonna have to put up with some random personnal life telling pictures from now on

My outfit today.

First dress I've been wearing without thights since July 12th (yes I wrote it down, sadly) thanks to this "amazing" summer weather.

This nail polish is from Urban Outfitters. Two years ago from a brand named Sparkle and Fade.

It reminds me of Ski teal we drop by Opi

Walking around in Brussels.

Some major bird's nests.

My hair colour is quite confusing at the moment.

Should I go massive ginger or go back to brunette ?

Decisions decisions...

Delicious lebanese food. My favourite!

Hope you're all good. A special massive hug to my UK fellow bloggers, stay safe!
PS : In case you were wondering the title of this post is the song Colbie Caillat - I do :)

Xo, Marilou

Damaged hair : Wella Pro Series + Avocado oil

2011-08-09T16:57:00.003+02:00

I was hanging out in the beauty department of my nearest grocery store (fun times) when I stumbled accross these new shampoos by Wella.

They are from the range pro series which are supposably "inspired by stylists, developed with experts"

I went for the shampoo and conditionner in Repair to help my after-vacays hair getting back to normal.

The sun and sea salt really damaged my silky head of hair (I wish!!!) so It was a great occasion to try these products out.

The good : You get 500ml for less then 5 euros which I thought was good value for your money.

The bad : Well, pretty much everything else that I didn't mention in the good. The smell is just horrendously too chemical and overpowering, I hated it. The consistency wasn't the best, I didn't feel like my hair were repaired at all. The conditionner was ok but I have tried much better ones. It did make my hair easier to brush but I didn't see any differences in the damaged hair area.

*sigh*

So, what I did :

I went to a store near to my work that sells every kind of essential oils and I bought avocado oil.

A thick, über greasy and pure avocado oil. It is so pure that it comes out green, it seems like Shrek was squeezed and put into that tiny bottle.
You can obviously use that oil to moisturize your body but also your hair.
I did an avocado oil hair mask all over my head and slept all night long with it with a towel on top.

It was super greasy and not the best night I ever had but the result was amazing.

Once washed the morning after, my hair were so lustruous and felt like brand new!

What a miracle ! I would recommand doing an all over your hair mask with that once every month as it is very very very greasy and from times to times just spread some over your split ends just to maintain the healthiness of your hair!

It was about 7 euros. I'm so pleased with the result so that was definitely worth it.

What I love the most about it is that is it 100% natural, no chemical crap whatsoever :)

XO,Marilou

NOTD : Vermillionaire

2011-08-06T11:27:00.005+02:00

Apologies for the lack of post , it's not that I don't want to but I can't find my camera's charger and it is driving me nuts. I had to take some pictures with my photobooth instead!

It may be time for a new camera I guess (Hi daddy ☺) mine is so old and gives the worst pictures .

Anywoo , I had to show you my nail polish of the day.

A fabulous bright yet not neon orange by Essie called Vermillionaire.

I have it for about a year but I never wore it before.

What a shame as it is the prettiest orange colour ever!

The application was soooo great. It was opaque and creamy only two coats were necessary!

Hi guys!!! LOL

I'm back with my false nails at the moment to celebrate the come back of Jersey Shore on tv.

YAY. Omg I so do need to go visit New Jersey one day.

Hope everyone is well.

Bisous, Marilou

I will never ever get tired of...

2011-08-04T19:21:00.000+02:00

...watching Beauty and the Beast.

BEST DISNEY MOVIE EVER :-)

La tête ailleurs et ce p'tit air audacieux d'un chat sauvage sous une ombrelle

Elle ne parle pas notre langage, elle est toujours dans les nuages,

c'est bien vrai qu'elle est étrange mademoiselle Belle.

*Je veuuux vivre autre choooose que cette viiiieeeee*

XO,Marilou

Hello my name is Marilou and I live in a dull fake tan country #whitegirlproblems

2011-07-31T23:24:00.002+02:00

The market of fake tan in Belgium is just so...DULL.

I always get well jel when reading about UK bloggers reviewing the last Lauren's way fake tan or comparing Hi-shi and Xen-Tan.

Okay, but first and foremost I need to tell you what bring me write a post about this.

I came back from vacays in early July and I was very happy because I got a bit of tan and I told myself that I will make it last all summer long by tanning in my garden and enjoying sea side. Well, that deserve a big fat LOL.What a fool was I thinking that the only month off from uni and work was going to be sunny and hot. No...obviously it was rainy and cold. So my second option was, well ok, let's try fake tan.

Well, though luck, the range of fake tan available in Belgium is just ridic'

Either you get a L'oréal or Dove moisturizing 24h "fake tan"at a pretty reasonnable price or you must splurge an insane amount of money with some Dior fake tan which is so overpriced.

I gave the L'oréal moisturizing fake tan 24h a go and it was totally so not worth it.

The smell was just awful and it leaves you with streaks all over the body and the colour...is just so tackily noticeable.

There is no.other.choices. No other brands, no alternative. Why? WHYYYY?

So my third option was... tanning beds. Bad, I KNOW. I feel horrible but I wanted to keep my tan soooo bad. I know that If I lived in the UK I wouldn't have to do that ever again, I mean, fake tan is everywhere, for every price and every taste, and it is the best alternative for a healthy sun kissed look.

My final option is that I have stopped going to tanning beds because my moles are itchy and I don't want some nasty thing happening to my skin so I'm back to fair skin again....until I go live in the UK WOOHOO :-) Obviously when I mean fake tan, I'm not thinking over the top Katie Price-esque but a natural and healthy looking glow that always make you feel better about yourself kind of tan.

Okay, that was a little bit of a pointless-I'm-bored-sunday-night post :)

XO,Marilou

Quote of the day

2011-07-29T00:39:00.002+02:00

I'm a firm believer in this little quote and in what Christiana Rants says in her video "when friendship fails". I couldn't have said it better than her :)

XO,Marilou

Bow-licious

2011-07-27T23:55:00.001+02:00

My new favourite hair accesory :)

XO,Marilou

Lush Rockstar

2011-07-26T08:43:00.001+02:00

Nothing like a good old soap. Especially when it is pink, smells divine and foams like crazy.

I'm not a lush addict for one reason, when I go into their store in Brussels I always get a headache.

It's just too much overpowering smell in one place for me. So I never stay and take time to chose what I want and discover new things and just browse. When I go there I always have to know what I want before to make it the most short possible. So when I went with my friend and she adviced me that Rockstar pink soap, I just went for it and with no regrets.

I went for a pretty "big" soap. I had no idea that you could chose the "amount" of soap you wanted and they just cut it like a big cheese. If I had knew I would have asked the nice lady at the counter to cut it into little pieces as it is almost impossible to use the 400g of soap I got in the shower. I had to cut it myself and it was not a piece of cake (literally)

However, the smell and the foaming really impressed me. It's super girly and sugar-y yet not overpowering or too over the top .

I wish it had glitters in it and it would have been peeeeer-fect :)

Next I'm planning to buy a face mask and a solid shampoo. Any recommandations to avoid me getting a overpowering lush store smell headache ? :)

XO,Marilou