girlinthecityglasgow

with love

2012-01-31T14:10:00.000Z

Lovely readers,

Well, it's been 'totes emosh' - but I feel the time has come to wish you all a fond farwell. As of today www.girlinthecityglasgow.com is closing for business.

A big thank you to all that welcomed me in to the wonderful blogging community - may all your blogs continue to grow and take over the world.

And to those that have commented - or just read from afar, you rock.

I'll still be tweeting beauty tips, fashion notes and general Glasgow gubbins @girlinthecityG - so please do say hello, and watch out for my regular column in the UK Beauty Guide magazine too.

Now maybe I'll finally get that first novel finished ;)

With love,

Girl in the City, Glasgow x

should auld acquaintance be forgot

2011-12-31T21:18:00.003Z

For auld lang syne, my dear

For auld lang syne,
We’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet
For auld lang syne!

Sex and the City: The Movie, Soundtrack Mairi Campbell and Dave Francis

To you and yours wherever you may be, wishing you love, health and prosperity for 2012 from this girl in the city.

Give the gift of Glossy

2011-12-23T13:28:00.002Z

GlossyBox.

Two words guaranteed to strike fear into the heart of your average postie yet set the same racing for every beauty fan.

The first monthly beauty box to the UK market (although a model embraced elsewhere in the world for some time now) GlossyBox sates our desires to try new lotions and potions in the search for that ‘holy grail’ product – the lipstick that never smudges, the mascara that would turn Bambi green with jealousy or the perfect body scrub that recaptures the baby soft skin of our youth (or keeps it in pristine condition if you’re lucky enough to still be in your ‘youth’).

Contents have divided the beauty nation: you loved the full size NARS Orgasm illuminator in the first box, and felt disappointed by the travel size Batiste dry shampoo in the second, you set up your very own social networking sites to swap contents and most of all you hash tagged in your thousands with glee as your pretty pink GlossyBox popped through your letterbox before the spoilers popped up all over blogger.

This Christmas I joined the beauty box rat race with my first ever GlossyBox** - and while I already knew what to expect contents wise I still enjoyed the elation of unwrapping my special limited edition red shiny box.

To Ann, with lots of love Ann xxx

And that, I think, is where the real experience lies. For £10 per month (plus the obligatory £2.95 postage and packaging – a fair price given the quality of the reusable gift box) you are essentially gifting yourself a luxurious little present – and as the saying (kinda) goes - girls, we're worth it ;)

GlossyBox is a monthly subscription box, but can also be gifted (this little Christmas GlossyBox edition would have made a fabulous present for your favourite lady) – you can buy 3, 6 or 12 boxes at a time (or just buy one and then unsubscribe – you have 14 days to do so). There’s even a newly launched GlossyBox for Men, and a limited edition Valentines Special coming in time for February.

Follow the GlossyBox team for exclusive reviews, launches and competition offers on the exclusive GlossyBox blog here.

Fusion Fabulous at Kuta Glasgow - and The Kraken lurks within!

2011-12-22T20:00:00.003Z

Dim sum, tapas, heck - party buffets with plates of tiny little sausages and cheese and pineapple on a stick… there’s just something about food served in lots of little dishes that turns just about any dining experience into some sort of wonderful exciting feast – whether that be a picnic in your local park or (a more winter friendly option) sharing a selection of tasty dishes in your new favourite city centre chow down retreat.

Glasgow is full of such wonderful little places and spaces – Kuta on Bath Street being my latest find. Nestled in the basement of hairy fairy fabulous Taylor Ferguson (hairdresser to the likes of Billy Connelly and Lulu apparently – he admits it on his website and everything!) Kuta is a haven of fabulous fusion food, seductive lighting, unexpected baroque touches and the most delicious dark rum beastie referred to reverently as ‘The Kraken’ – once sipped, never forgotten.

It was a quiet Sunday evening when I met up with one of my oldest friends for an evening of catch up and Christmas shopping cool down. We were seated immediately and offered up information on personal favourites, specials and vital advice on how ‘seafoody’ the seafood dish was (we’re both quite new to this fishy business).

And while the steak and burger options sounded appetising (both spicy and served with sweet potato chips) we decided to get our very own table picnic on, opting to share two 3 bowl starters (£7.95 per three) from the list of small dishes, and one 3 bowl main from the large dishes selection (£12.95 per three).

top left - right: chicken satay skewers, chicken and noodle tom yum soup, vegetable spring rolls

bottom left - right: duck spring rolls, breaded okra, shellfish tempura**

So came the starters – hot little bowls of duck and vegetable spring rolls with plum dipping sauce (crispy and stuffed full of goodness – especially the duck which was rich and spicy), chicken satay skewers with the lightest most moreish satay sauce I’ve ever tasted, chicken and noodle tom yum soup (lots of noodles – lots of thai style creamy spicy soup), breaded okra with chilli and garlic mayonnaise (crispy, crunchy flowery things – who knew?) and the dreaded mixed shellfish tempura – mussels, oysters, king prawns and scallops – and colour me happy, I’m a shellfish convert (although I may demand them in such a light tempura batter going forward, could be tricky but I’m committed to the cause.)

It may sound like a lot of food, and heck I’m not going to lie – there was plenty on our platter(s) but everything was light, tasty and bite size good. The 3 bowl main is a similar pick what you fancy menu and served on a lazy susan style tray that lets you spin and share with your dining companion(s).

Clockwise: spiced honey glazed pork belly with coconut steamed rice, butter chicken with rice noodles and mixed peppers and Malaysian style vegetables with coriander rice**

We were recommended the butter chicken (served with rice noodles and mixed peppers) and could happily recommend this on – tiny little pieces of melt in your mouth chicken in a delicious dark glaze with well seasoned noodles that guarantee to send your fork into a spinning frenzy – think Asian lady and the tramp and you’ve got the perfect sharing dish. We also shared the spiced honey glazed pork belly with coconut steamed rice. The pork belly was charred to perfection and the rice slightly sticky and oh so wonderful. Our final bowl was of Malaysian style vegetables with coriander rice. My partner in eating is a spice fiend so we asked for a little extra heat with these which was delivered in this deliciously hot treat. Fusion fabulous!

The Captain's Rest cocktail - The Kraken lurks within!**

And if your evening is more pre-club merriment with drinks a plenty then Kuta also has an impressive cocktail menu and stylish bar area - one of the select elite to stock Caribbean dark rum The Kraken.

Named after a sea beast of myth and legend because of the inky dark tentacles it coats its captive glass with, The Kraken is strong, enriched with exotic spices including cinnamon, ginger and enticingly good. It adds a kick to coke (if asking for some KrakenCoke doesn’t terrify you too much in a Glasgow bar) but we decided to test our seafaring legs by sampling it in the form of The Captain’s Rest – mixed with Chambord black raspberry liquor, apricot brand, apple juice, cranberry juice, lemon juice and gomme syrup. Gommenomnomnom.

Kuta is run by Alan Tomkins (of Glasgow’s Urban Bar & Brasserie, Vroni’s Wine Bar, Vodka Wodka, Bolly Mardy’s and Blue Dog) and is situated in the basement of 104 Bath Street, the space once occupied by Tapela.

www.kutabathstreet.co.uk/

The Kraken has an RRP of £22.99 for a 70cl bottle, and is available nationally in good off-licenses and supermarkets including Sainsbury’s, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and Peckham’s delicatessen.

www.krakenrum.com/

Nicola Roberts keeps us in aubergine suspenders.

2011-12-19T20:02:00.002Z

It was no frills allowed as ex girl band turned fashionista Nicola Roberts hit the streets of London in a baggy jumper and itsty bitsty denim shorts.

Sharing 800 minutes of her life with the public to promote the launch of the new Nokia Lumia 800 at Carphone Warehouse and Best Buy, Nicola rocked a look favoured by street stylistas across the nation with this delectable colour block chunky knit from fashion website owntherunway.com (currently half price in store at Bank clothing), distressed topshop cut off denims, kid suede topshop ankle boots and the most heart stopping aubergine double suspender styled tights.

Never did I think that I would happily dress head to toe in the same outfit as a member of Girls Aloud, but heck the girl got style.

Wish upon a star: sparkle with Thierry Mugler this Christmas

2011-12-14T16:32:00.004Z

No Christmas would be complete without a little sparkle, and this year couture designer Thierry Mugler is combining gourmand scented stars from the sky with desirable jewellery in the perfect perfume present.

Top left:Christmas Limited Edition Alien with cuff, (30ml £50 / 60ml £67)

Top right: Christmas Limited Edition Womanity with necklace (50ml £50)

Bottom left: Christmas Limited Edition Angel with bracelet (25ml £51.50, 50ml £61.50)

Bottom right: Aura by Swarovski Extract Jewel (£950).

Readers of my blog will know that my heart belongs to Angel – a sensual feminine fragrance with a delicious and distinctive chocolate based twist. Presented in a stunning silver and glass star bottle, this Christmas the perfume has been adorned with a star jewel bracelet carrying the Thierry Mugler signature logo – a perfect little piece to compliment your New Year party frock and help you wish upon your very own star for all things fabulous in 2012.

Mugler has also accessorised sister perfumes Alien (warm and light) with a subtle golden cuff, and Womanity (a delectable marriage of fig and citrus) with a multitude of dark silver coloured chains that culminate in quite the statement necklace.

And if your desires are more on the extravagant side then why not treat your loved one to Aura by Swarovski. Purchase the limited edition crystal encrusted Eau de Parfum for £160 or for those with even richer tastes £950 will buy you the limited edition Aura by Swarovski Extract Jewel. Containing a highly concentrated version of Aura, this exclusive Jewel is presented in a luxurious leather case, is individually numbered and available on request only.

Fluffy or Spiky? You Decide!

2011-12-12T20:42:00.004Z

Ahem.

So this weekend I may have partaken in just a little bit of telly box tenterhooks; resulting today in some very square eyes, the desire for a flashing neon coloured wrist band thingy (seriously, how did they do that?) and the urge to make my next big entrance via trampoline.

While I've loved to hate this year's X Factor with the sick sort of twistedness that makes me want to throw things at Kelly Rowland, the series' true star surely shone in its styling. Hair was big - and so were the lashes and oh my goodness there was more glitter than your average drag queen convention. Diva-vine indeed. But behind the glamoramma was the clever use of a mix of achievable high street pieces and breaking fashion houses, smaller labels and independent designers - even Scottish label and lover of statement dressing Obscure Couture made a number of entrances most notably so on punk princess Amelia Lily.

It's for this reason that it would seem Little Mix aren't the only winners this season. Helping to style the girl band was recent London College of Fashion graduate Nikita Karizma; a statement loving young designer who created the armoury styled silver harnesses worn by the ensemble dancers and also the stunning spiked Porcupine shoulders featured in the band's season highlight performance of En Vogue's Don't Let Go.

Indeed embellishment remained a theme of the night, and while more fluffy than fierce, the X Factor's style team also took on the homespun trend by dressing the girls in the fluffiest angora dip dye jumpers (from Topshop's current Boutique collection) brandishing each of the Little Mix's names on their jumper in cutesy kitsch high school sequins.

Check out Obscure Couture's personalised knuckledusters (as worn by Amelia Lily) here, or get your fluff on in Little Mix's angora Topshop's pastels (sans sequins) here.

stockings are for life, not just for christmas

2011-12-04T15:07:00.012Z

I have a deliciously expensive habit.

My heart beings to skip the very moment I start to unravel that seductive black satin bow, lift open that little pink box and slip my fingers into layers of expensive black tissue.

Fellow lingerie lovers will recognise that very same decadent experience of opening your brand new purchase from Agent Provocateur and knowing nothing else will ever do.

Now don't get me wrong, I have my Bridget Jones moments and my knicker drawer will always pay homage to Marks & Spencer), but in amongst the every day cotton and opaques are little pink boxes stacked with nylons, lace and sheers in a spectrum that ranges from neon to black.

Not every day pieces - but definitely more than just a special occasion treat. I like to think that if I ever make the mistake of tucking my skirt into my pants at least I'll be flashing something a little more tasteful than granny specials.

Kate Moss in Agent Provocateur limited edition jewel tone Nikita

I blame Kate Moss. The first 'face' (body) of Agent Provocateur that made me look, drool and covet. And the reason I bought my first ever set (the Love collection in black - a classic combination that's still one of the store's best sellers to date).

Lady Gaga famously wore Agent Provocateur's Love bra and brief in her Bad Romance video

But boy did I feel good in that demi cup. I had not long come out of hospital after my much thought through breast reduction and my brand new boobs needed some TLC. I felt special, grown up and yes, just a little bit poorer - Agent Provocateur isn't cheap but not only was I investing in some fabulous lingerie, but investing in a sense of empowerment knowing that I had bought myself something very special just. for. me.

Agent Provocateur have recently launched an exclusive Home collection (check out the ruffle silk pieces) and extended Beauty collection with pieces starting from £15 - there's even a decadent pair of red knee high knitted cashmere socks you could hang over the bottom of your bed this Christmas Eve, after all - Santa baby, been an awful good girl.

this post was brought to you by aboutplasticsurgery.com

same incredible body - new dress

2011-11-20T16:44:00.002Z

Beautiful products, exquisite glass jars, potions, lotions and perfumes... they all take pride of place on our dressing tables. Quite often I'll purchase a new piece simply on its aesthetics (shallow yes - but the magpie in me still can't help but coo over Chanel or go barmy over Biba).

Hair care however? Well I'm all about the science. I want volume, I want thickness, I want it to be oh-so-good that my barnet looks beautiful and I don't really care how basic it looks on my bathroom shelf.

Amber Le Bon models big hair for Umberto Giannini

So hurrah for every one's favourite unpronounceable hair care range Umberto Giannini who have, quite frankly, made shampoo sexy - from the sleek black packaging of the Glamour collection (who didn't go gaga for their gorgeous Backcomb in a Bottle?) to the brand's catwalk showcase featuring the stunning Amber Le Bon.

And to celebrate their best selling Incredible Body Volume range the brand have now redesigned the collection - all sleek purple, gold and painted ladies. My bathroom has never quite looked this stylish.

Giannini's Volume Shampoo and Conditioner for Big Hair (£5.29 each) have always been a firm favourite of mine; something about the intelligent conditioner (told you I'm a science girl) that only conditions where needed for height that doesn't droop (who likes droopy hair?)

The Blow Dry Spray and Mousse for Big Hair (£5.49 each) are new to me as similar products tend to result in stickiness rather than volume. I was pleasantly surprised however and even braved combining both for added root volume (the pump spray lets you direct the product right to the root) resulting in the kind of high hair that Barbarella would be proud of without my fingers sticking to my head every time I touched it. Result.

Umberto Giannini's new look Incredible Body volume range is available in Boots stores and online nationwide, and currently on a 2 for £7.50 promotion*

*at time of publishing

Amy Winehouse Lioness: 60s doo wop 'Our Day Will Come' video revealed

2011-11-20T16:30:00.001Z

Revealed earlier today on Gigwise was the video to accompany Our Day Will Come - a previously unheard track recorded by the late Amy Winehouse in May 2002.

An updated version of an original 1960s Doo Wop song, Our Day Will Come is taken from Amy Winehouse Lioness: Hidden Treasures - an album approved by Winehouse's family and compiled by friends and producers Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi, featuring 12 previously unreleased songs including 3 covers.

£1 from every sale of 'Amy Winehouse Lioness: Hidden Treasures' will be donated to The Amy Winehouse Foundation which was set up by Amy's family and friends to support charitable activities for young people, especially those in need by reason of ill health, disability, financial disadvantage or addiction.

Amy Winehouse Lioness: Hidden Treasures will be released on December 5.

Fashion fans can also support Amy's Foundation by purchasing pieces from the Amy Winehouse Fred Perry Autumn/Winter 2011 collection released earlier this year after the star's untimely death with the blessing of her family.

Oh Clarisonic Mia!

2011-11-20T15:00:00.002Z

They say great things come in small packages, and my much loved baby pink Clarisonic Mia** is such a case in point.

This adorable little cleansing tool has quite the sonic boom for its compact size, and it’s lightweight too meaning that I’ve been able to pop it in my travel bag and gym bag (it's waterproof therefore shower friendly) to satisfy my desire to dispose of the kind of deep down dirt and makeup that your average cleansing wipe only skims over.

The Mia is super simple to use – one button, one speed, one minute and Mia is done leaving skin smooth, clean and super responsive to your favourite skin care products. And according to renowned make up artist Daniel Sandler (otherwise known as the nicest man in make up) this fabulous little tool is the best on the market to properly prep your skin for fabulous make up results; apparently he uses it on celebrity shoots* with impressive results and I can see why. (*The brush in interchangeable and super easy to clean – Daniel uses the same sanitising product on it as he does with his make up brushes).

And while there is a little tube of cleanser included with your purchase Mia is pretty much compatible with every foaming cleanser – I’m currently in love (love, love) with Khiels - and the brands are a match made in heaven.

Mia’s gentle sonic vibrations cleanse deeply, clearing pores and creating softer, smoother skin. I’ve got quite average combination skin – slightly oily t zone, sometimes dry cheeks (Glasgow winter I’m looking at you!) and both have significantly improved since introducing this little sonic brush into my evening routine.

Apparently it’s quite the treat for the man in your life too (hey if Justin Timberlake is a fan…) with the additional benefit of softer skin and reduced irritation after shaving and with an additional brush head retailing for around £17, what better excuse to pop this under the tree for your other half this Christmas.

Clarisonic Mia is available in five pretty pastel shades – blue, green, yellow, lilac and pink – as well as white, and with every purchase of the pink Mia, Clarisonic will donate £5 to Look Good… Feel Better, a charity dedicated to helping women come to terms with appearance-related changes from cancer treatment.

Clarisonic Mia is available from Space NK priced at £120.

Cherry pop lips with Daniel Sandler

2011-11-13T19:00:00.002Z

Adore the professional make up finish captured in your favourite glossy magazines? Ever wish you could have your very own celebrity make up artist to hand? Well, if you’re on twitter then you must follow make up guru Daniel Sandler – undoubtedly the nicest man in make up (as in the industry, not personally, of course!)

Daniel tweets top tips and mantras for cosmetic fans of every age, and if his own delectable product range is anything to go by, he certainly knows his stuff.

Top left / bottom right corner wearing Daniel Sandler Luxury Lipstick in Impulse and Watercolour Crème Rouge Blusher in Soft Pink. Lipstick pictured alone top right, blushers pictured left - right in Soft Pink and Soft Peach bottom left.

Created for his Autumn Winter 2011 Collection is Impulse Luxury Lipstick (£13.25) – his signature red, rich with cherry pink pigments which according to Daniel ‘make this a demi-bright shade reminiscent of Donna Summer and the disco fever of Studio 54 in the 70’s’. And while I’m a 80s child myself I seriously can’t resist this classic having worn it on special occasions and everyday activities alike. Its creamy texture means it glides on to your lips with ease, and its unique lip pluming formula packs a pouty punch that’s both long lasting and sophisticated fun.

A lady like blush is a must this winter, and Daniel's new watercolour crème rouge blusher in Soft Pink offers the most perfect porcelain skin flush. Priced at £15 this is a formula that takes on my favourite NARS cream blush finish and lasts all day long.

Daniel's Autumn Winter 2011 ladylike look

For tips, make up looks and to find your nearest stockist visit www.danielsandler.com.

Follow Daniel on twitter.

Heavenly Hands with Nails Inc and Gossip Girl. xoxo

2011-11-11T11:58:00.002Z

Glasgow’s Nails Inc salon is a haven for stressed out shoppers this Christmas, situated on the ground floor of House of Fraser Buchanan Street and sandwiched between the beauty hall and Yo Sushi! In fact, the night I attended for my first ever Nails Inc Heavenly Hands manicure I found myself admiring the finished results at a booth in the very same restaurant with fellow blogger Kirsten (who had just been magnetised – more on that later)

Small but perfectly formed this Nails Inc salon is the kind of place where you could happily spend a couple of hours oohing and aahing over the high end hand collection as you take in polishes in literally every colour of the rainbow, with practically every finish you could ever imagine too – from matte, metallic, crackle, holographic and even hand applied individual Swarovski crystals in the bling tastic Crystal Pedicure (a treat starting from £120 that is apparently favoured by Brides on their big day).

And the nail technicians are as patient as they are friendly – you can literally try before you buy; at one point I had each every colour and finish of the 3 recently launched Gossip Girl polishes as well as the 3 new magnetic polishes deftly applied on my nails to allow me to pick the perfect polish I wanted applied to finish off my Heavenly Hands manicure in style.

Oh the Heavenly Hands manicure, what a treat. The ultimate manicure and the perfect indulgent treatment as my nails were soaked, buffed, smoothed, filed and shaped and my cuticles trimmed as well as an oh-so-good deep tissue hand massage. Bliss.

Nails Inc Heavenly Manicure using the Gossip Girl collection in Blair

I opted for a Gossip Girl polish using the Blair Collection. A special effects duo using a deep Teal black Blair nail polish teamed with Privileged blue/green overglaze top coat. The teal black on its own is rich and shiny – and if you’ll excuse my language, as bitching as its namesake. The Privileged top coat leaves an almost holographic finish – a grown up glitter if you will, without the gritty grain.

from left - right: Nails Inc Gossip Girl collection in Blair, Serena and Lily

The Gossip Girl collection is priced at £20 per pack for the two polishes and also comes in Serena (a patent black polish with It Girl electric blue overglaze) and Lily (a plum black polish with High Society red and green overglaze) – each finish equally as mesmerising as the other, and the absolute perfect Christmas party polish for shimmering chic this festive season.

Kirsten's Nails Inc Heavenly Manicure using the Magnetic Polish in Houses of Parliament

As for Kirsten, the girl done equally as good sporting Nails Inc new Magnetic Polish in metallic purple shade Houses of Parliament. Stunning on its own but marbled and intriguing when used with the special magnet housed in the polish’s lid – an absolutely unique way to create a talk worthy nail art effect. Priced at £13 per bottle, and available in Trafalgar Square (metallic chrome) as well as Big Ben (a gorgeous glittery gold colour), £1 from every magnetic polish sold will be donated to The Prince’s Trust.

The Nails Inc Heavenly Hand manicure can be booked in salon or online at www.nailsinc.com and is priced at £38 for 30 minutes. Other services in salon include the 3 week manicure, Minx application and nail art.

Shop the Nails Inc Christmas Shop, including the couture crystal lid collection online now.

House of Fraser support reinterpretation of the iconic AIDS ribbon

2011-11-02T13:39:00.002Z

Fashion designer and Chairman of amfAR, Kenneth Cole, has partnered with MTV International’s Staying Alive Foundation and amfAR on the reinterpretation of the iconic AIDS ribbon.

Designed to commemorate the discovery of the virus 30 years ago, and to ignite a new wave of awareness about the pandemic with the next generation, the new AIDS ribbon, features a double loop, and symbolizes the coming together of individuals and the re-doubling of efforts in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

singer Keisha models the double ribbon

The launch is supported by a provocative celebrity campaign entitled Come Together, which will air on MTV channels worldwide this month and next, and will feature a montage of celebrities wearing the double ribbon reciting lines about how, where, and when they like to wear it. Celebrities featured in the campaign include: Ke$ha, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cyndi Lauper, Estelle, Skylar Grey, Cheyenne Jackson, and Rose McGowan.

The ribbons will be on sale beginning November 4 through December 31 at selected House of Fraser stores in the UK with 100% of net profits being donated to AWEARNESS, the Kenneth Cole Foundation, in support of the MTV Staying Alive Foundation and amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.

Ten out of Ten for ten30

2011-11-01T14:51:00.003Z

Scotland is currently awash with style; just ask the award givers, street style shooters and the country’s creative industries.

And one of those fabulously stylish types is Glasgow’s very own Alan Moore, a young designer whose ten30 label is currently gathering momentum at super chic speed.

His latest collection, unveiled in a swathe of heather and Scottish laments in Glasgow’s trendy Malmaison hotel last month, saw Moore take the label to new heights in fashion consciousness with the addition of desirable fabrics including Garynahine Harris Tweed.

Alan with models Lauren Andrew, Ashleigh Bradshaw, and Mhairi Mcgowan

And Moore wears his influences clear for all to see on his sleeve, telling stories with each new collection; apparently his new Autumn/Winter pieces were influenced by strong femme fatales in old gangster films – think Karen Hill in Goodfellas, Ginger from Casino and Elvira Hancock from Scarface. Falling in love with his pieces however is slightly less dangerous as his use of tweed, silks, leather and the most beautiful faux fur make for quite the successful marriage. As for Moore’s cuts and draping – he certainly knows how to flatter the female figure with the collection’s stand out piece - a shredded tubular dress (pictured below) offering just a tantalising glimpse of the true ‘bad girl’ beneath.

The ten30 collection is available for purchase on the brand's online shop now.

Mwah, Mwah, Mwahahahahaha!

2011-10-31T12:45:00.002Z

Happy Halloween ladies!

And what better way to celebrate such an occasion with a deathly kiss.

Top row features the decidedly wicked temporary lip tattoos from Sally's Violent Lips collection. I'm wearing the leopard print version here - but these bad boys come in just about every finish from pink cheetah to silver sparkle. Lasting up to 4 hours these lip appliques loved by celebrities Jessie J and Kellis are ridiculously easy to apply thanks to a nifty press out and pout system, with suggested shapes for cutting printed on the reverse.

And on the bottom row, the lip look I'm rocking today - a deep, dark and delicious red from Beauty UK aptly named Vampire. At only £3.49 this bargain buy is an absolute beauty in a matte finish with a minty tingle. So far I've had it on 4 hours with no sign of feathering.

Oh, and the bottom left photo - my 'precious' new ring, £2 in the Dorothy Perkins sale. Now that really is a howler of a bargain.

Violent Lips are available from Sally stores nationwide and www.sallyexpress.com, priced £10.99 for a pack of three.

Beauty UK is available at Superdrug and some selected Internacionale stores, and online at www.beautyukcosmetics.com.

Wave Envy with Babyliss, and your chance to WIN!

2011-10-30T12:17:00.010Z

PLEASE NOTE COMPETITION NOW CLOSED, WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED

click to skip straight to my Babyliss competition

Soft, beachy waves.

Sigh, just saying it should make me feel blissed out, after all it’s the bohemian hairstyle that’s simple yet glamorous enough to add tousle me texture to any party look this coming festive season.

But no, for my straight-as-you-like locks, soft sexy natural-looking waves do not come easy. I’ve scrunched, curled, wrapped and ragged my hair every which way but have never quite reached wave perfection.

watch celebrity hairdresser Beverly C give beauty vlogger Tanya Burr
beautiful waves with Babyliss Wave Envy

my own toussled bob thanks to Babyliss Wave Envy

If the name of Babyliss’ latest styler is anything to go by, then I’m not the only girl aiming for bed-head curls. Wave Envy is a clever little device that allows you to select your choice of tight waves or a softer style with instant texture. Simply press your hair between the plate and ceramic barrels et voila - beach wave me happy with Olsen-esque effects for girlies with flowing locks, and for me - well really quite perfect little Marcel style 1920s waves in my short, choppy bob.

Enter my Babyliss competition.

And girls, if glamorous curls, waves and volume are more your thing, then why not enter my competition to win a set of Babyliss Thermo Ceramic Rollers (20 high heat ceramic-flocked rollers for fast curl formation and a gorgeous shiny finish) or the must have Babyliss Curling Wand (create free-flowing curls with this nano-gold ceramic conical barrel).

Check out the results for yourself in the 2 little videos below, and get your curl on for the forthcoming Christmas season with your chance to win either of these stylista’s stylers simply leave a comment below with your choice of either Babyliss Thermo Ceramic Rollers or Babyliss Curling Wand, and a contact email address should you be the lucky winner.

Competition for UK addresses only. Competition closes 9pm on Sunday 13 November. Gain a second entry by following me on twitter and tweeting:

I've entered @GirlinthecityG’s Bouncing #Babyliss competition http://bit.ly/uoN3IL

Competition winners will be drawn by random and winner will be contacted directly. You must be a follower of this blog to enter.

Topshop launch best selling lip markers in new colours

2011-10-27T19:00:00.004+01:00

Following the insane sell-out success of their Berry marker last winter, Topshop have this month re-released Berry with two equally gorgeous lip stain chums.

Now available in shades (above, from left - right) Berry (deep plum), Hot Shot (coral) and Popsicle (bright pink), these long lasting lip stains apply like a dream and leave a gorgeous matte snog-resistant stain on the lips for hours. Perfect for the party season!

Topshop markers are priced £8 each, and are available online or in stores nationwide.

From perfect pedis to gemstone waxes: meet Glasgow's super spas.

2011-10-27T13:04:00.004+01:00

In the current climate, you’d be forgiven for thinking that luxury beauty treatments were being pushed aside in favour of home-spa – the ‘staycation’ of the beauty industry where girls tackle their own tootsies and contort themselves into yoga-esque positions to get their buff on.

Not so, in fact, thanks to the growth of deal of the day websites such as Wahanda.com ladies the length and breadth of the country are logging on to find themselves a range of spa breaks and pamper packages at their favourite boutique salons at desirable discount rates that mean the beauty industry is booming.

As a girl in the city I’d be the first to praise the prowess of Glasgow’s wide range of spas and salons. While I’m not adverse to some home pampering (a quick shout out to the brand new home spa range being launched by luxury spa brand Decleor this Christmas) my pedis don’t pack the same punch as the delicate detailing taken with time and precision in the surrounding of my local spa salon – point in note a recent visit to PureSpa (a little haven of respite heaven in Glasgow’s Silverburn shopping centre) made for quite the relaxing session for my tired shopped-out tootsies, and I came away with perfectly polished toes that have stayed shiny and red now some 14 days later – and that’s not even their ‘permanent polish’ range. Impressive stuff.

PureSpa's pedicure relaxation stations

And pampering is not the only option. For us girls there’s the beauty necessary (deep breath!) – The bikini wax (ouch). While we can get our Geordie Shore on and Veet from home, to my mind nothing lasts longer than a salon wax. Not usually the most pleasant of experiences, I was pleasantly surprised to try The Beauty Store’s famous Hot Wax treatment recently – a soft, puffy, hot chocolate based wax that simply peels off with hardly any discomfort – and the sweet smell of chocolate? - Definitely an added (and distracting) bonus - although perhaps not as glamorous as the cheekily named Glasvegas wax at Glasgow’s Simply Bliss – a Brazilian wax with added gem appeal – a Weegie take on Essex’s famous vajazzle.

The Beauty Store, Glasgow's Royal Exchange Square

Treat yourself to a Spa taster session at any PureSpa across Scotland with a special 50% discount here.

This post was brought to you in association with Wahanda.com

Airbrush your skin with Nanoblur

2011-10-24T17:43:00.005+01:00

Look 10 Years Younger In 40 Seconds.

Oh yes they did. Nanoblur**, the new 'it' cosmetic product that is currently selling at the quite incredible rate of 1 every 10 seconds in the UK really does claim that it can help you look (up to) 10 years younger in 40 seconds.*

Well slap my thirty(ish) year old thighs and colour me happy (ahem) that was a claim that this girl in the city was not about to let fly by and so, armed with my little tube of miracles I sat down ready to sweep away some serious years with an application of this super cream.

A definite improvement on the left after using Nanoblur

And the application is key folks; the thought of popping this on after your perfectly applied foundation might make you shriek in halloween-time-horror, but fear not - it ABSOLUTELY WILL NOT TAKE OFF YOUR MAKE UP, m'kay? In fact I stippled this over my base with the very same foundation brush and instantly felt my skin tighten (in a reassuring manner). At first glance it had just seemed to dull my natural (read - foundation) 'glow' leaving a matte finish, but after waiting 5 or 10 minutes the glow was back and actually everything did look a little smoother, a little more 'perfect' than 'porefect' and while I'm not sure I can remember how my skin looked at the tender age of 23, It certainly did seem a little more lifted and smoothed.

Originally formulated to tackle concerns created by HD cameras that would highlight the slightest of skin imperfections on Hollywood celebrities, Nanoblur uses the most advance form of optical prism technology (no, me neither) to literally blur' any lines and flaws on the skin... literally you're talking an airbrushed finish folks. Praise the makeup lords indeed.

Oh, and it didn't half keep my makeup firmly on my face - no sliding, no powdering and no crusty eyes (sexy, I know) - and for £19.99 that alone would be no mean feat.

Nanoblur is available exclusively at Boots stores nationwide.

* Subjects in a dermatologist-supervised study of 30 men and women looked an average of 10 years younger within 40 seconds or less of using Nanoblur.

night kisses with GOSH

2011-10-23T18:01:00.003+01:00

Chanel's Le Vernis Nail Colour in Rouge Noir was my first ever posh polish; it immediately made me feel grown up, glamorous and at £17.50 a pop, really quite poor.

Meet GOSH's Night Kiss** - at £5 this has to be the glossiest, most vamp high street equivalent I've found, and at deep blood opacity with only 2 coats this could be your perfect party polish this festive season.

GOSH is available in store at Superdrug or online at www.superdrug.com

Polish and potions and magic, oh my!

2011-10-20T13:32:00.004+01:00

This Halloween why not trick or treat yourself with some very wicked polish and potions.

Topshop have released the most delicious deep blood orange coloured nail polish just in time for Halloween, and at only £5 for this little vial of varnish in Smashing Pumpkin** you'd have to be a very wicked witch indeed not to fall in love.

I'm embracing my inner nail diva with an accent polish on both my ring fingers, GOSH's black crackle nail varnish**, top left £5.49, gives a spooky scratchy finish (and applies like a dream) while GOSH's Forest Floor varnish**, top right £5.99, leaves a deep, ghoulish green that takes on the designer equivalents for a more purse-friendly price.

And while I'm recovering from a poorly applied shellac, I've been treating my nail beds and hands (and head, shoulders, knees and toes - knees and toes) to a deep slathering of spook-tastic Steamcream** - fresh, natural and vegan there really could be no more magical potion to hydrate, heal and protect.

Steamcream's Halloween collection is available now RRP £10.50 from www.steamcream.co.uk.

GOSH nail polish is available online at www.superdrug.com or in stores now.

the black lipstick challenge

2011-10-18T15:57:00.002+01:00

Halloween is coming... Halloween is coooooming...

And the shops are full of ghoulish goodies with some scarily good nods to some very prominent fashion and beauty trends (more soon), and while it's a colour you'll find in Superdrug all year around, Barry M's Lip Paint in black is perfect for the spooky season.

However, Halloween aside, I thought I would try out the latest fad for Black lips in an altogether less eerie environment - just another day at the office:

While this little black number may not be particularly office friendly (see my manager's reaction, third photo down) - the actual formula is creamy and rich, and with the right outfit (better modelled by fashion blogger Kirsty of Forty Four Sunsets, above right, on her way to a styling job) could make quite the statement on your next night out.

Barry M's Lip Paint in black is available from Superdrug priced £4.49**

Oasis go Arty (ring)

2011-10-09T18:12:00.004+01:00

While the YSL Arty remains at the very top of my 'Will I, won't I?" list (I most likely will, especially as YSL have more recently launched Silver and Gold plated versions that will undoubtedly last many moons longer than their original metal only equivalents), this little blighter is on my radar (though sadly not in my local store).

Oasis' Rich Blue Special Lapis ring has a distinctive homage to the French original, and at only £16 versus £140 also has a distinctively different price tag.

The Oasis Special Lapis is available in blue (pictured) and coral.

Angel 2011

2011-10-06T13:30:00.001+01:00

Everyone has a scent that takes them back to a certain period or event in their life; a fragrance that reminds them of their loved one or that they associate with a special time.

I can remember the very first time I read about my 'forever fragrance', poring over an interview with Australian actress Melissa George as she spoke of an amazing chocolate based perfume that was so exclusive she found it hard to find anywhere but at Duty Free. George looked chic in boho fringed clothing - hippy, happy and young girl gorgeous. I wanted her long blonde hair, I wanted her Ozzie glow, and I wanted this exclusive chocolate perfume.

It was the first perfume I ever bought for myself and I can recall visiting House of Fraser in Glasgow to find the new Angel counter - all shiny crystal blue glass and star cut silver.

The original Thierry Mugler Angel

The perfume itself was one of the first gourmand fragrances (based on edible notes) and was heavy and delicious. I wore it and immediately felt like I had been wrapped up in a luxury chocolate wrapper and left to snooze all cosy and content.

I wore Angel for years and then, seduced by various celebrity campaigns, I moved on - trying to find a new signature scent. But in a brief romance a few years ago I started seeing someone who wore Amen (the men's variant) and immediately I was transported back - like an old friend it made me feel good all over again (and no, I'm not just talking about this particular fella!)

The new Angel EDT in its beautiful comet shaped bottle

So, when I noticed that Mugler had released a new Angel EDT with the promises of the same delicious base notes but softer, smoother and more subtle, I couldn't resist falling for its charms all over again.

The new Angel EDT** is structured in three waves, all with the celestial charms you would expect from the fragrance; Heavenly (bergamont and pink peppercorn), Delicious (chocolate, praline and pink fruits) and Voluptuous (soft cedar and white musk). Perfect for autumn, Angel EDT is warm and welcoming with the familiar sweet tones of the original fragrance.

The campaign is fronted (and voiced, who knew she sang?) by Hollywood sweetheart Eva Mendes with the line "My mother told me to only ever wear one fragrance so that it becomes yours: mines is Thierry Mugler's Angel Eau de Toilette". Well, dear Eva, who knew that you and I would ever share the same love affair.

Angel Eau de Toilette 40ml RRPs at £46, 80ml at £65.

my love affair with Russian Navy at Regis

2011-10-05T14:09:00.004+01:00

Situated on the fourth floor of Debenhams Glasgow you'll find a grotto like entrance, packed floor to ceiling with heavenly hair products from Moroccan Oil to TIGI. Tangle teazers in every shape, colour and size hang from one display while on the other a mahoosive menu of hair, beauty and body treatments that range from silky smooth waxing packages to alternative therapies such as reflexology and reiki.

More of a beauty destination than your run of the mill salon, Regis Spa and Hairstylists really is a little Aladdin's cave of treatments, and a welcome respite from a busy day shopping in one of Glasgow's biggest department stores.

On special offer during my visit was the Spa's signature GEL manicures** (£30 for two week's of O.P.I gel perfection). After much ooohing and umming I opted for the brand's classic Russian Navy; a deep midnight blue with a slight shimmer running through it - and a perfect compliment for my tanned tootsies as I trod the golden beaches of Palma earlier this month.

My pedicure stayed perfect for near 18 days, and I'll definitely be back - I can think of no better treat for my shopped out tootsies next time I hit Glasgow town.

Hand luggage heroes

2011-10-04T14:04:00.002+01:00

Recently I swapped the heady tenement heights of a very grey Glasgow for the vintage gothic charms of Palma for a weekend city break that merged sun, sea and shopping.

Travelling light with hand luggage only I made it my mission to miniaturise my life, taking capsule style clothes - dress up / dress down shorts, floaty aztec style harems and a handful of classic tops including a flighty white shirt from H&M that has since become a staple in my layer friendly wardrobe.

Tanned skin = less make up, and so I packed only the necessities (yes, that does include red lipstick, natch) and lots of cabin friendly little bottles of lotions and potions to keep me suitably beautified for the entire weekend without causing meltdown in airport security.

Packed neatly (thank the lord for university job days spent with a GAP folding board) into my petrol blue leather hold all (Marks & Spencer's Limited Collection) was my make up must haves (see below) and a galivanting girl's best friends in the form of Caudalie Soleil Divin suncare** (SPF20 for the body, and 30 for the face - I'm a wrinkle free zone thank you very much) - with its subtle fragrance and luminous finish this is worth the pennies priced around the £18 mark; Batiste dry shampoo in Tropical (my Wham! can, thank you ma'am), label.m's incredible sea salt spray** (hello beach waves!) in its handy little travel size and my Dove** miniatures set which actually came in its own little 'air travel approved' clear bag (Brownie points all 'round).

I actually ended up wearing very little makeup (the heat and my insta-freckles meant for a photoready face as was), but I must make just two little shout outs to my MAC lip conditioner in Pettting Pink, which, when worn with new CID's i-define in Blush** (I actually may sell my cat for shares in this company, this product really is my new lip love) gives the prettiest, subtle pink pout I've ever worn.

You'll also note my suitably 'disco' beach attire draped over the bag in the top picture - this is the Fusion tankini from Freya**. Best. Boob. support. ever. I wore this in the water and by the beach in the chic surroundings of Port Soller and felt confident, covered and suitably summery.

Oh, and it wouldn't be a holiday related post without subjecting you to some of my other snaps.

Check out the first photograph in the second row, taken one late evening as we stumbled upon the Plessi Llaüt Light exhibition in the Lonja - one of Palma's Gothic pile, built originally to house the Martime Stock Exchange and recently reopened to the public.

The exhibition by Venetian artist Fabrizio Plessi is sponsored by Louis Vuiton and consists of 14 Llaüts, traditional Mallorcan fishing boats, places upside down around the exchange hall floor and filled with blue neon lights, the sounds of the sea and the music of Michael Nyman. Beautiful, haunting and atmospheric - much like the city that houses it.

Glasgow Fabulous with Forever 21

2011-09-21T13:00:00.004+01:00

Glasgow continues to invest in its reputation as a must-visit shopping destination (second only to London) with the £70million retail development of the new Atlas site situated at the north end of Buchanan Street.

an artist's impression of the new Atlas retail development on Buchanan Street, Glasgow

And as I walked past the building work recently I couldn't help but get excited by the massive signs proclaiming a brand new Forever 21 coming soon (well, March 2013, but it's never too early to get excited by forthcoming shopping opportunities, huh?)

Amber Le Bon, face of Forever 21's UK launch at Birmingham's Bullring

This will be American fast fashion brand Forever 21's fourth UK store, following the recent opening of 3 floor flagship store on the old HMV site in London's Oxford Street - a launch that was supported by newly appointed face of the brand, model DJ and blogger Bip Ling, and the new Westfield Stratford City branch which opened earlier this month.

forever 21 navajo by girlinthecityglasgow featuring rhinestone rings

At 60,000 square feet the forthcoming Glasgow Atlas branch will certainly entice Glasgow's very own fashionistas, with the cut price brand known for its quick interpretations of catwalk to shop floor no doubt appealing to those who already travel to the city to visit its famous golden style mile.

This post was brought to you in association with Glasgow classifieds specialists Gumtree.com

Warehouse join forces with British Fashion Council for exclusive collection

2011-09-13T13:02:00.001+01:00

Warehouse has continued its partnership with the British Fashion Councils Colleges Council to search for new design talent.

Introducing Warehouse Design Competition 2011 winners; designer Shivani Chavda and photographer Emily Smeaton

Now in its third year, for the first time the competition also searched for new talent in photography as well as design. The result is a debut collection that is both innovative and directional

Shivani Chavda from De Montfort University was selected as 2011’s designer winner with Emily Smeaton (check out her gorgeous fashion photography blog here) from Bristol University of the West of England being selected as the photography winner.

The finalists were selected by a panel of industry judges including Lisa Byrne, Design Director at Warehouse, Anne Tyrrell, Chair of the British Fashion Council Colleges Council, Tiffanie Darke, Editor of Sunday Times Style plus Celestine Cooney, Warehouse campaign Stylist and Fashion Director of Twin Magazine.

Both winners joined Warehouse for a six-month placement where they followed the full journey of the collection development from the initial design process, through production, to campaign creation and marketing launch.

The result is a desirable debut collection called In My wildest dreams - a mesmerising merger of key trends including exotic animal prints and surreal art that create bright digital prints in some of this season's most wanted maxi styles.

Prices for the collection start from £55 - £180 and will be sold exclusively online and in selected Warehouse stores around the country - including Glasgow's Buchanan Galleries flagship store. The collection launches on 15 September.

HD Brows: the art of Zen

2011-09-07T16:56:00.006+01:00

My mother - a girl of the swinging sixties and glam rock seventies.

A wearer of pastel eyeshadow and frosty lips in the eighties (and the skinniest black Levi cords you ever did see).

Oh, and my only style icon at the very tender age of 12... my first year at 'big' school, and the age at which I first half-inched her tweezers (Wilkinson Sword, still going strong if you must know) and attacked my Gallagher style mono brow into the tiniest, thinnest, most surprised looking excuse for a set of eyebrows you ever did see. It looked fashionable on my mum. I just looked startled.

Fast forward oh more years than I care to admit and those dang brows of mine have never been the same since. So much so that I have now mastered the art of the 'strong, defined brow' with my tiny little tapered MAC brush and Ardell dark brown brow powder, and could without thinking about it master the perfect powdered brow in my sleep.

nekked brows, oh my

my own pencil job

But goodness, it isn't half a bit of a buggar having to draw on those brows every day - they're not particularly water resistant (a problem in the monsoon season we're currently 'enjoying' in Glasgow, and even more so when I'm taking on the grannies at my local Aqua aerobics class at the gym). I've even considered going under the needle in a quest for permanent make up.

So when I was invited in to try out the HD brow** (oh my, doesn't it sound wonderfully technical) at the tasty gorgeous new Zen salon in Edinburgh's swanky Hanover Street I practically squealed with delight at the thought that my quest for the perfect brow (yes, really) may finally be over.

Well girlies, let me tell you - if there's anywhere you would happily welcome a good plucking, waxing, threading and dye job it's Zen's new Hanover Street salon. All dreamy white and purple, with bubble lights and swanky products.

And as I was lowered back on the comfiest of leather chairs my beautician explained every step and just what I could expect - including, the very real truth that sadly my real brows were just too sparse to expect a full defined brow without the addition of a good pencil job too. Sigh.

My HD brows

But what I did come out of the chair with was the best shaped brow I've ever had - trimmed and coiffed to perfection, with a nice dark base that now makes my own brow make up job last longer. Result.

Oh, and hello, *waves* *holds out hands* *points at things in general game show hostess styleee* ... have you seen my lovely new Shellac French Manicure? - Also a Zen special. And now while I may not have those Hollywood style brows, good lord I feel glamorous enough to take on any of the starlets with my polished paws.

Zen Shellac manicures start from £42 and wears flawlessly for up to 14 days. Every nail treatment includes a complimentary glass of champagne.

Zen's HD brow packages start from £38 for one session.

For more info vist zen's webpage and blog here.

Getting Boozy Snoozy at Blythswood Square, Glasgow

2011-09-06T15:57:00.007+01:00

12 courses, 5 stars, 4 friends, one very decadent bottle of Prosecco.

What do you get when you add the above together? The recipe for the perfect Sunday lunch in Glasgow's most glamorous surroundings.

Wittily referred to as the Boozy Snoozy Sunday at Blythswood Square, this delicious little package offers a group of four the chance to enjoy the delights of dining in the former RSAC* ballroom - now a 120 cover restaurant and cocktail bar with quirky finishes from cheeky 'red light' window dressings to stylish Harris Tweed soft furnishings that include cosy little bucket chairs and plump plaid cushions that defy you not to want to coury up with an after dinner cocktail, and put the world to right with your dining companions.

Service doesn't come better than at the Blythswood with attentive staff that are friendly without being intrusive, and a recent visit** was rewarded with a never ending bread basket (olive bread, sun dried tomato, sweet onion... oh my), and ever topped up glasses of perfectly chilled Prosecco.

And the food. Goodness, the Market Menu could not have been fresher with delicious little tastes of Europe and beyond including such treats as Chestnut Marscapone, Sicilian flavours, Pork Belly and Pumpkin infused Orzo pasta.

We opted for main courses that included Sea Bream and Wood Pigeon, (the fish was cooked to perfection; crisp and light; the Wood Pigeon came pink as recommended by the waiter, who took no offense with a request for it to be recooked a little darker, apologies to all those foodies out there!, with desert highlights including a moreish coconut ice cream and dark and white chocolate marquis with strawberry salad.

As for the price, well fine dining doesn't come more reasonably priced than £80 per group of four. At £20 per head for a three course meal from the restaurant's mouth watering Market menu that includes a bottle of Prosecco to share (aha, that'll be the 'boozy' covered then!) you'll find your appetite for good food more than sated at Glasgow's Blythswood Square.

*Royal Scottish Automobile Club

high street versus high end vintage beauty as Topshop take on Biba

2011-08-28T15:56:00.003+01:00

Launching this weekend is Topshop's new makeup collection, Smoke and Mirrors, a palette of muted autumnal colours inspired by the high glamour of the early 70s.

While I've yet to try out the range, the magpie in me cannot help but be drawn to the packaging - all apparently hand-drawn cutwork geometrics in gold, polished black lacquer and amber - reminiscent of the original Biba cosmetics, which interestingly enough are being re-launched at House of Fraser this autumn too.

And although the collection claims to deliver a polished, glossy look, with new products including an amber Eye Palette (Secret Liaisons, £12.50) and a dewy potted highlighter called Glow (Polished, £9), Topshop Make Up Artist Hannah Murray has created the ultimate on-trend Grunge look too. (Oh, and check out the awesome pink dip dye, anyone else craving pink hair?)

click to enlarge

If you're more high end than high street however, then a visit to House of Fraser is a must this autumn, with the re-launch of iconic 70s brand Biba beauty.

Drawing inspiration from the original Biba themes of 1930s Hollywood Glamour the new capsule collection comprises of a Lip Palette (£24), Eye Palette (£26), Face Palette (£34), Nail Polish collection (£21), Eyelash collection (£18) and an entirely covetable Lip Gloss Ring (£15) - (Santa, you're reading this, right?)

The Biba capsule collection will be available exclusively at House of Fraser from 1 October. Topshop's new Smoke and Mirrors collection is available in-store and online now.

blue jeans. red lips.

2011-08-20T15:22:00.005+01:00

Glasgow is a mecca of vintage, second hand and independent label shops. From the west end treasures of Byres Road, Ruthven Lane and Decourcy's Arcade, to Merchant City's Kings Court - which kicks it old school for 60s and 70s finds.

But sometimes it's those good old charity shops where you can unearth the real treasures - vintage or not, where you know your pennies are going to good cause and you're not paying over inflated eBay rates.

Cue the Chest, Heart and Stroke shop in Glasgow's south side and this very pair of Criminal Damage super skinnies in bright blue. Brand new. All original labels attached. £2.99. I rest my case.

I'm absolutely loving the coloured jeans trend on the high street at the moment (even if it does take me back to my early teens, god I'm old.)

Matched with simple basics and a bright red lip c/o Benefit's Flirt Alert - a gorgeous, super slick recommendation from the lovely @LaurenSpearman, these bright blue babies make a very casual outfit just that little bit more special, and dare I say it, summery.

cape of desire

2011-08-10T12:30:00.004+01:00

As I type the rain is bouncing off the roof of Ballet HQ at an alarming rate and I am hoping desperately that the sometimes indoors rain in my bedroom (the result of living on the top floor of a very old, Glasgow tenement) does not make an appearance today as I have left my very beautiful, soft pink leather BIBA makeup bag in the precise area of puddeldom on my dressing table.

Sigh. Summer, for Glasgow at least, it seems is officially over.

But with autumn comes the search for some delicious new key pieces that will let me layer til my little heart's content - no less so than the perfect overcoat, or in this case (as I have been referring to it) 'cape of absolute desire'.

Priced at £299, this camel oversized cape from ethical British label Beaument Organic isn't cheap, but crafted from beautiful organic wool and fully lined it will undeniably stand the test of time.

Pieces from the label's gorgeous A/W 11 collection are arriving daily -( I also have the beautiful fur trapper hat featured above on my wish list) - check out the website here.

silver side cross mash up

2011-07-31T16:06:00.001+01:00

Earlier this month I came across this tiny little silver coloured side cross bracelet in Urban Outfitters. I'm enjoying mixing up my jewellery textures right now and love working the delicate chain with this rope and brass bracelet from Fossil, and my £1.50 bargain chunky Accessorize bracelet.

Oh, and the ring? Topshop's finest (and now on sale in store for around £3) - love the stone placement, it reminds me of the YSL arty range (if a little more budget friendly)

Eucerin: move on, no wrinkles to be seen here

2011-07-21T13:03:00.007+01:00

When I was asked recently if I would like to review a range of Eucerin products, I happily agreed.

I had recently trialed a new skincare range that had been less than kind to my sensitive skin, and was relying on full-cover foundation as my only true skin friend.

While I’d never used Eucerin before I was aware of their cos-medical skin care merits, dermatological background and had known many friends and family members that had relied on the brand to deal with very sensitive or particular skincare problems, including eczema and psoriasis – and so knew my skin was in safe hands.

This didn’t however stop me from having a little high and mighty moment, however, when I opened my Eucerin parcel to reveal a range of products from their Anti-Age Hyaluron-Filler range (their ‘wrinkle filling’ range).

L-R Clockwise: Eucerin Hyaluron Filler Day Cream, Night Cream, Concentrate (single), Eye Treatment, Concentrate (pod)

Wrinkles, I thought, bloomin’ cheek!

But, once I’d shifted myself back down from my very own pedestal, I had a good look at my thirty-something skin, and well, hello, yes – those creases under my eyes where my foundation nestles around 4pm – not ‘make up creases’, no – but little early stages wrinkles.

So, with my pride only a little dented, I set to working this range of products into my daily and nighttime skincare regime. And soon the skeptic in me vanished.

The Hyaluron Filler (Day, and Night) £25.52, was soft, and fluffy in its consistency and instantly soothed my skin on application (much like the feeling of sun care lotion on a hot day – lovely) and the Light Day Cream, £25.52, although a little lighter in consistency was similarly refreshing, leaving my skin with a gorgeous radiant glow, and better still working as an incredible make up base meaning that the last two weeks I’ve been able to skip the primer stage of my make up routine.

The little Hyaluron Filler Concentrate serums, £30.63, (6 tiny little serums, in their futuristic plastic pod) offered concentrated wrinkle filler action, but weren’t so suitable for the eye area so I couldn’t really judge any great effect (possibly better for more mature skin), but I’ll happily sing the praises of the Hyaluron Filler Eye Treatment, £21.96, and swear that never again will I be without this product – 2 weeks on and those pesky little ‘make up creases’ (ahem) under my eye have as good as gone. Sold!

The full skincare range from Eucerin, including this Hyaluron Filler Anti Age range – and the Anti Redness range (next on my list of purchases!) is available to purchase in store and online from Boots.com.

This post was written by a wrinkle-free girlinthecityglasgow and sponsored by Eucerin

Mini Macs: MAC Sized to Go collection

2011-07-07T12:31:00.003+01:00

Continuing the squeal, it's miniature AND awesome series, those clever bods over at MAC have finally sealed the deal on travel treats with the launch of the Sized to Go collection.

Launched earlier this month, the collection consists of teeny weeny bottles of their hero beauty care products: Cleanse Off Oil, Pro Eye Makeup Remover, Studio Moisture Cream, Oil Control Lotion - as well as ickle miniatures of Strobe Cream (love) and Fix+ (love love).

Priced from £7 for 30ml, this summer make sure you travel in style with your very own Mini MACs.

Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation: my skin, but better.

2011-07-02T14:13:00.001+01:00

Launched late last month, Illamasqua’s new Skin Base Foundation has caused quite a flutter in the beauty community, perhaps so because of the company’s claim that it is “the ultimate skin realism foundation.”

Inspired by the cult Asian market Beauty Balm creams, Skin Base Foundation is suitable for professional photography (and, of course a professional HD environment – my, aren’t we getting technical these days!) primarily because of its complete lack of SPF.

Hold on, wait a minute… isn’t SPF the ‘good guy?’ Well, yes – but not necessarily for those capture the moment, photographic opportunities you might want to hold on to forever – mostly because it is notoriously the culprit for ‘flash back’ (that lovely whiter-than-the-rest-of-your-body face effect you might notice in photographs taken with flash).

And for every day Illamasqua suggest you simply choose your own SPF level and apply under the base as normal.

So what are these Beauty Balms that Illamasqua say have inspired their Skin Base Foundation?

Originating in Germany as a cream designed to regenerate the skin of patients that had underwent laser treatments, Beauty Balms (sometimes known as Blemish Balms) quickly became hugely popular in Korea (where celebrities first used the cream as a foundation) and then later across other Asian countries.

A Beauty Balm is primarily a foundation that aims to cover blemishes, offer good coverage but blend into the skin imperceptibly. It is said to improve skin texture over time and reduce scars – so a kind of skincare and foundation all in one. Thick in texture, Beauty Balms tend to contain a high level of silicone and colours tend to be fairly light to attract the Asian market. I believe some BB creams also include a skin whitening ingredient.

Illamasqua Skin Base contains no such whitening ingredient, but it does feature the silicone ingredient – probably why it smoothes over the skin so well. As for the texture, well it feels and looks thick – but on the skin translates to light and subtle (not quite ‘just my skin’ but perhaps that old cliché ‘my skin, but better’). It lasted all day (and evening, through a veritable monsoon of a Take That concert, ahem) with only a little powder reapplied across my t-zone through the day.

Oh, and in terms of photography, well, judge for yourself - all photos featured above are taken with flash.

Skin Base is available in 18 shades (I’m photographed wearing shade 6, but you can see a comparison chart here), incorporating every skintone, and is priced £25 for 30ml. You can see the evolution of this new product at youtube.com/illamasqua.

Why not check out Sparklz and Shine's post for full colour swatches here.

Glasgow Fabulous: Girl in the City gets frisky at Browns bar and brasserie

2011-07-01T13:09:00.002+01:00

A recent addition to Glasgow’s ever growing list of drinking and dining establishments of note, Browns Bar and Brasserie, situated in the heart of the city, is fast making a name for itself as the place to enjoy Glasgow’s finest cocktails in an environment that’s less ‘footballers wives’ (or dare I say, Geordie Shore) than its immediate competitors, and more Glasgow-Fabulous with beautiful people and an ever so clued up cool crowd that well suit the bar’s evening 25+ door policy.

The bar itself feels faintly reminiscent of a grand old ballroom in a beautiful big ship of times gone past – all sparkling polished brass, dark wood, elegant finishes and flattering lighting. There’s even a baby grand in the corner so that you can enjoy some well tinkled ivories with your glass of something cold, fabulous and bubbly.

Browns also prides itself in its well spaced restaurant, with comfortable booths, elegant little hideaway corners and attentive staff. Its menu is extensive (but not overwhelming) with something for everyone – from a well pitched children’s menu (no chicken nuggets in sight, instead penne pasta and even crayfish and crab fishcakes) to a generous fixed price menu with the choice of £7.95 or £9.95 main courses.

On the evening I attended (I went along with a very handsome, Irish Man in the City) we ate from the A La Carte menu** with main courses ranging from £8.95 to £21.45 (the latter for an 8oz fillet steak).

We were seated in the restaurant’s ‘garden area’ – downstairs, in a quiet little concave with a glass ceiling which meant we could enjoy the night sky with our dinner. Our waitress was friendly, funny and helpful – suggesting an appropriate, well-priced wine (from an equally impressive list) and managing very well the gentle banter from my dinner guest on the bar’s Titanic magnitude.

To start I enjoyed easily the most delicious Scallops I’ve ever tasted – pan seared on a bed of pea and mascarpone purée with chorizo and chilli butter sauce; cooked to perfection with just the right side of ‘bite’ in the sauce.

Man in the City ordered the Gloucestershire smoked beef - thinly sliced kiln-cured beef with shaved parmesan, roasted peppers, truffle oil, crispy capers and rocket. I stole a little (purely for review purposes, of course) and was impressed with how tender the beef was; the smokiness was soft and contrasted well with the sharp little burst of flavour delivered from the capers.

Our clean-as-you-like plates were quickly taken away, and within no time our mains brought to the table.

Man in the City opted for the equally masculine sounding Haunch of Venison Steak which looked drool-worthily good, served with a potato and spinach cake, parsley buttered chantenay carrots and caramelised apple. The meat itself was perhaps a little more on the medium than the rare side he’d requested (what is it with men and bloody meat?) but enjoyed it nonetheless “a good piece of meat” and what was, apparently, a rather awesome potato cake. He even enjoyed the apple in its more girly, saucy thin sliced manner.

Not wanting to suffer a pasta sauce injury on my delicate little phloof of a cream blouse, I opted for what should have been a simple staple restaurant dish of grilled chicken. Sadly (I think) my main may have found itself just a little too long under a hotplate as its prosciutto topping was dried to the crisp of well-grilled bacon and my ‘seasoned fries’ had the consistency of potato sticks. The chicken itself was perfect however, well-cooked, slightly charred on top (in a good way) and butterflyed so that it stayed tender and juicy, complemented well by the tangy taleggio and basil oil topping.

Opting for an Espresso pick me up rather than sticky goodness of any one of the teasingly tasty sounding treats offered in the Desert menu, I sat back to savour my first two courses as Man in the City ditched his rock and roll styling for a bowl of rich dairy ice cream – 3 scoops no less including a most deliciously indulgent crème brûlée flavour.

Browns Glasgow with Frisky Bison

A Saturday evening at Browns isn’t complete without a cocktail, and we completed our visit getting a little frisky at the Bar. Well, it was Man in the City’s birthday after all, so who was I to deny him a little extra pleasure in the way of a Frisky Bison cocktail (what did you think I was talking about?) – a seriously mouth watering mix of Poland’s premium Żubrówka Bison Grass Vodka and sparkling Appeltiser mixed with just a little extra sparkling banter from our bartender; the perfect end to an equally Glasgow fabulous night out.

To see photos of my pre-Scottish Fashion Awards visit to Browns with Saskia the Style Fairy and Morven Cats and Rocking Chairs click here.

Situated at 1, George Square, Glasgow Browns Glasgow is open for Breakfast through to dinner serving classic brasserie food, with a great wine and beer list and reasonably priced, exquisitely made cocktails. Sunday lunches are also served, as are Children’s menus.

To find out more about Browns Glasgow visit www.brownsglasgow.co.uk.

The Frisky Bison is available at bars, pubs and clubs across the UK, including All Bar One, Browns Bar & Brasserie, Vodka Revolution and All Star Lanes in London.

Champagne Pamper package with West End style

2011-06-30T17:45:00.003+01:00

After a whirlwind week of award ceremonies, press mornings and a mad dash around town styling up a certain Scottish blogging fashionista, Kirsten of Saskia the Style Fairy and I armed ourselves with supplies (diet coke and an odd orange sports drink seeing as you asked) tasked with the job of investigating a rather stylish deal for our east coast compadres.

The perfect marriage of French tradition and expertly sourced, seasonal Scottish produce, the Restaurant at the Bonham hotel in Edinburgh has been awarded two coveted AA rosettes in recognition of chef Michel Bouyer's creative flair.

Cool and chic the Restaurant at the Bonham offers the perfect urban lunchtime retreat, and one where 2 (or 3, at your choice) courses and a glass of chilled champagne later you are whisked away by taxi to the nearby Chamomile Sanctuary - a luxury west end boutique style spa and winner of Beauty Salon of the year* no less for an afternoon of pampering.

And this little slice of heaven? Well, all competitively priced at £75pp ** thanks to a new Champagne Pamper package offered at both venues.

Kirsten and I dine in style at Edinburgh's Restaurant at the Bonham

Although quiet when Kirsten and I dined, service at the Bonham was impeccable - and the food to die for. I could have happily bathed in my soup starter it was so delicious, and as for the spinach gnocchi main course (revealed with a slight touch of the 'tadaaaaa's from a tagine style pot by my waiter - this place enjoys a little touch of the theatrics) please, please can I have this every day, for the rest of my life? We upgraded to include desert (after a lengthy gossip break, natch) - a perfectly portioned creme brulee with biscotti so good, it would easily rival Tuscany's best.

And with door to door service, we were soon whisked away to Edinburgh's Chamomile Sanctuary arriving in plenty of time to take in the salon/spa's decadent interior and slip in to 'absolute relaxation' mode in time for our treatments.

at Chamomile Sanctuary pre - and post treatment, check out the 'massage' hair

As part of the package you can choose from one of four of the salon's most popular treatments to round off your afternoon of indulgence - the express manicure and pedicure, luxury manicure, Sundãri Facial or Ayurvedic massage.

I opted for the Ayurvedic massage - an Indian massage technique with a unique mixture of therapeutic essential oils chosen specifically to match my moods as well as physical needs (cleverly worked out by a rather strange little survey at the beginning of my treatment.) The massage promises to cleanse, detoxify and offer a boost to the immune system (much needed after a full on week) and left me absolutely and utterly, blissed out and relaxed. Siiiiiiigh.

Book your very own Champagne Pamper package here.

* The Professional Beauty Awards 2011

Defined brows, bright lips, embellished shoulders and the Fashion Awards

2011-06-25T16:51:00.011+01:00

Earlier this month I attended the 7th annual Scottish Fashion Awards,

Hosted by MTV fashionista Laura Whitmore and boasting a guest list that included Dolce & Gabbana supermodel David 'tighty-whities' Gandy, an array of international fashion designers (including an incredibly dapper Henry Holland dressed head to toe in tweed), industry tastemakers (Grazia's Style Director Paula Reid was impeccably turned out after tweeting me the evening before to tell me she was "freestyling a mash up of Pucci/Ferretti") and the great and good of Scotland's fashion scene, you can imagine the sheer terror of putting together an ensemble that reflected my own style and would take me from red carpet to after party over the breadth of an eight hour evening.

obligatory start of the evening pout and pose

As I blogged previously I had already decided on a relatively chic little jumpsuit from French Connection with fierce spike and metal tassel shoulder embellishment.

After struggling in my 4inch heels at last year's awards, I opted for grey suede midi block heels which complimented the red, white and black detail on the jumpsuit of which I belted up blousson style with a vintage black leather belt with brass horse shoe detail.

Dark brows, deep contour and Topshop Rio Rio lipstick

I wore no accessories, instead opting for a soft vintage grey over sized clutch bag (which used to belong to my grandmother, no less) and some serious defined make up with heavy blackened brows, deep contour and glossy highlight on the cheek and a bright pop of orange red on the lips. My hair was backcombed within an inch of it's life, and messily pulled back leaving a large side-quiff style fringe.

I met up with fellow blogging attendees Kirsten and Morven pre-awards for the most delicious Chocolate Strawberry martinis in Glasgow's Browns Bar and Basserie (review to follow soon). The girls looked absolutely beautiful, Kirsten in Topshop and vintage fur and Morven in Zara and fabulous little feather drop earrings.

You can see us all arriving together at around 58 seconds in the short promotional film above. We arrived just after Dame Shirley Bassey had made her grand entrance, stealing the show in a floor length Graeme Black ballgown of Sir Billi tartan with the most amazing neckpiece from Swarovski couture.

To read more about the awards, click through to Kirsten's blog here.

Contestant Ready! 2 week powerplate challenge with gladiator Siren

2011-06-23T20:00:00.001+01:00

2 weeks, 8 sessions, 5 pounds, 1 dress size and 13 centimetres.

It was one very early morning last month that this girl in the city dragged her not-quite-Jennifer-Lopez bottom out of bed and decided to take on a new fitness routine of literally gladiator style lengths.

Arriving at Gallery In The City, a chic little studio in Glasgow’s city centre, I came face to face with my nemesis – no, not studio director (and ex gladiator) Ali Paton (she was Siren, and man does she still look like she could rock a mean little Lycra number) but the accelerated training of doooooom (okay, perhaps I’m getting carried away here) - the very latest Pro6 Powerplate machines.

Contestaaaant reaaaadddy…

Now I’m actually quite a novice to machine-related exercise, and admittedly my first thought was “awesome, so I just stand on this and shake my groove thang away”.

Not so.

Working with Ali on my first session, and the other two personal trainers (David and Louise) over the next two weeks, I squatted, jumped, swung kettle balls and gripped objects between my legs with the force of a Bond baddie like no other. To my delight I was even given a pugil stick to use during one session (although sadly no Travelator appeared).

Each session lasted approximately 25 minutes and included a warm up and cool down session (for which the soothing vibrations of the machine are used to impressive effect on your aching muscles), and while after my first session I found it tricky to walk down the stairs without gripping on for dear life, my body soon adjusted and by my second or third session my walk was definitely less cowboy-like.

Gallery In The City offers personal one-to-one training sessions, or you can choose to share your sessions with two others at a lesser cost (and perhaps a nice way to motivate each other in a group of friends).

In the 2 weeks I trialled the training** I dropped a dress size, as well as 13 centimetres across my body (4 on the chest, 2 on my waist and am impressive 7 across my hips). I noticed almost immediately the effect on my body shape and an increased level of fitness too. I dropped 5 pounds (although felt I’d probably built up some muscle too) and the course has absolutely energised me to include gym-style fitness and exercise into my daily routine.

Gallery In The City is currently offering a 2 week body blitz package for £75 (more information here) - or if you’re in serious holiday prep mode why not treat yourself to their 2 week Beach Body Perfect Package in association with the Five Star Blythswood Square which includes up to six power plate sessions to get your body toned as well as four treatments (including a unique Scottish Seaweed Bath; Black Sand Jewel Massage, pre-holiday waxing package, manicure, pedicure and a professional Self Tan) at the award-winning Spa at Blythswood Square designed to leave you primed, polished and ready to hit the beach looking your best.

Enjoy the Scottish Seaweed bath at Blythswood Square as part of Gallery In The City's 2 week Beach Body Perfect package.

The Beach Body Perfect Package is exclusively available at a special cost of £320 representing a saving of around £90. For further information or to book call Gallery in the City on 0141 221 0916 and quote BS package; treatments at Blythswood Square can then be pre-booked.

Free trial appointments are also available at Gallery In The city, just call to book in advance - mini Lycra unitards optional.

Umberto Giannini goes mini glam with backcomb in a bottle

2011-06-14T12:20:00.003+01:00

Even though I know that little = less, I just can't resist the allure of miniature products (anyone else coo over those tiny travel size bottles in the holiday aisles at Boots?)

So needless to say I couldn't resist the newest teeny weeny versions of Umberto Giannini's Glam Hair must haves - Mini Backcomb in a Bottle and Mini Morning After Dry Shampoo**.

Designed for glamour girls on the go, Mini Backcomb in a Bottle is a handbag friendly 30ml version of the cult product that caused sell out frenzies when it was launched last year. Spray, 'pouffe', coiffe and shimmy on in to your do to create instant texture and rock and roll style volume without attacking your poor locks in true back comb style.

As for the Mini Morning After Dry Shampoo... well, who knows when a girl might need to refresh and revive her previous night's look - and the invisible formula means no-one need know you've been partying all night long.

The Umberto Giannini miniature Glam Hair range launched earlier this month, and is available from Boots priced £1.99 each.

Nicola Roberts beats her drum in Suno prints

2011-06-04T15:08:00.001+01:00

So Nicola Roberts, she of once orangiest-gingeriest-of-them-all fame, will release her first debut single, Beat of My Drum, tomorrow (5 June)

I'm no music critic but I think it's actually quite a catchy little effort at credibility (one realises that line is unlikely to make it as a review quote on her album cover).

But hold up, wait a minute... lets indulge a little in the fun stuff. Nicola 'proud to be a red head' Roberts may have gone slightly off radar with the ombre (sweets, that's a little last year, no?) - but she's looking pretty incredible in her Suno printed silk asymmetric jacket (Resort 2011 collection) and ruffle string bikini bottoms (Spring 2011).

Oh, and can't quite place what's different about her? Well she's not gone the way of former band mate Harding with full on 'enhancements' but she has had her kooky little teeth straightened (and sigh - check out those awesome eyebrows.)

photo source: The Mirror online

Nicola, a FROW regular throughout fashion week earlier this year, has really embraced her own individual sense of style and is vocal in her support of the British fashion industry.

She has even co-created her very own jewelled wedge shoes with rising shoe designer Atalanta Weller, who previously collaborated with Gareth Pugh - a name all MAC fans should look out for this autumn, for the artwork on her new single.

Her make up range, Dainty Doll offers an extensive range of colours developed for those of us with paler skins, and will finally be available in-store across Boots nationwide from the end of June.

black and blonde

2011-05-29T22:45:00.001+01:00

Some girls won't leave the house without lippie, for others it's mascara ... while I could happily face the world with next to nothing on my skin, the one thing I have to do is my eyebrows (wait, does that make it two things?)

While I normally use a dark brown powder from Ardell, I was inspired by Aberdeen-based Make Up Artist (and beauty blogging blonde) Amanda McLennan to switch to the dark side and embrace my inner Madonna with black brows using a Ruby & Millie black eyebrow powder to contrast my blonde hair.

Amanda uses Sleek's true colour lipstick in Mystic in her You Tube tutorial, but I went for Brighton Rock - a wearable hot pink, satin finish from Topshop's latest make up collection. Priced at only £8, Topshop's lipsticks are manufactured from the same source as MAC and their lasting power is incredible.

forget Black Swan - lets go fluro!

2011-05-23T17:20:00.002+01:00

Working full time with a ballet company it's hard not to notice ballet trends filtering across fashion and beauty, and even though I feel a little bit of a fraud turning up to the office in my Topshop salmon ballet pumps (they go with everything) I can't wait to embrace the summer neon trend with these fluro ballet bad boys.

At only £16 per pair - I think I might embrace my inner Portman by picking up all 3 pairs so that I can colour match to suit my mood - not a luxury afforded by our dancers I might add, who have a walk-in shoe cupboard that would send Carrie into overdrive.

photos: Andrew Ross for Scottish Ballet

Still when you go through around 30 pairs of pointe shoes in one tour (yes, each) I guess it's good to have a few back ups!

Mario hearts Moss

2011-05-10T14:22:00.002+01:00

Temperatures must have been even hotter than normal in Brazil earlier this year, when Mario Testino shot British supermodel Kate Moss to mark Vogue Brazil's 36th anniversary.

You can check out the nekked front cover shot here, but my favourite photograph features Mossy wearing just ever so slightly more.

Love the smoking lips lariat necklace from Lynn Ban (the silver version can be yours for, ahem, only $550) Catch the full spread on this blog here.

a delicate decollete

2011-05-01T16:19:00.001+01:00

In one of my first ever PR jobs I worked under a feisty Irish red-head. She scared the living bejeezus out of me, but her take no-nonsense attitude meant that I respected her, listened to her and probably learned most of the skills and certainly gumption that I have today.

I was 22 and she had just turned 30 and I always remember thinking, man I hope I look like that when I turn 30. I'm now 32 and while I'm not a tiny little Irish red-head (obviously) it makes me laugh a little that out of all the career gems she passed my way the biggest impact was something she said around the time of her own 30th birthday, when I caught her sticking her chin out and looking at her neck (not awkward at all, no) - she said that no matter how fit she kept herself that she knew it was her neck that would first show the signs of her true age.

And she was right, well, not about her own neck - I soon moved on after that (not because of it, I hasten to add!) so I can't really comment on that, but I did start paying attention to older women around me, family, friends, folks on the tellybox. It did seem indeed that the neck - in fact the whole décolleté area of the neck and bust is the first area to show signs of age, become less toned, firm or show fine lines all caused by dehydration, overexposure to the sun and of course aging itself.

So while I'm guilty of not always applying all over body cream, or sticking to a strict toning regime the one step in my skincare routine I've never skipped is applying a good cream to my bust and neck.

Most recently I've been using MONU neck and bust cream** - it's packed full of gorgeous ingredients including essential oils and wheat germ and it feels just gorgeous when applied - cooling and fresh and it claims to aid cellular renewal (is it just me that thinks of Doctor Who type regenerations with science like that, meh, probably) - I'm not particularly clued up on the science, but my skin certainly feels firmer and I'd go as far to say it looks, well, nicer :) (told you I wasn't clued up on the science). It certainly holds products better - namely my favourite tan (heaven and angels sing for Xen Tan Dark Lotion - which is now reduced in price online!) and allows me to accentuate my collar bones with some glimmering goodness (current routine Palmer's Body Gloss and NARS Albatross lightly applied with my Japonesque fan brush** - more on which in another post - these brushes are utterly awesome).

MONU are part of a larger natural skin care product range, renown for their award-winning anti-aging products, and this particular neck and bust cream proudly carries the label that it has not been tested on animals (a big tick from a proud old cat lady, ha!). The neck and bust cream retails at £30.95 for 50ml which is certainly on the mid-high end shelf for me, but a treat perhaps for getting ready to bare just a little more this summer. I was also sent the MONU active collagen bio-neck mask** to try, which containing 99% freeze-dried collagen, and retailing at £6.50 is a fabulous little one-off treatment to instantly plump up and hydrate your skin.

MONU products are available online at www.monushop.co.uk.

For those on a tighter budget, or just starting out on décolleté skincare why not check out my previous post here.

is my body too boobylicious for you baby

2011-04-28T18:49:00.007+01:00

Tongue in cheek title, but while us girls blessed with generous bosoms may have cleavage comfier than your average big and bouncy pillow, sometimes that very same more-than-a-handful = baggy, saggy dresses as we try to squeeze our assets into clothes cut for more adequate cups. Babealicious it ain't.

You might remember my Bravissimo post where I was delighted to find that it WAS possible to have big boobies AND beautiful brassieres all thanks to this High Street wonder brand. Well, recently I popped back in to pick up a saucy little floral vintage number and took time to check out their newly launched clothes line - Pepperberry.

Shopping in Pepperberry could really not be easier. Just pick up your normal size but take into account your god given (or not!) curves and opt for 'curvy', 'really curvy' or 'super curvy' - each with slightly more bust room so your lady bumps don't suffer the squeeeeze.

bead detail cardigan also available in oatmeal, black mid length jersey dress not shown online.

As for the clothes themselves. Well, honestly? Don't expect Topshop style trends, but if you like clean cut lines, classic shapes and textures then this is probably a range you should check out. The price tags aren't of the super cheap variety either - a party frock will probably set you back around £60, but each piece seems well made.

The 'curvy' steps are quite steep, so it's worth trying before you buy as there seems to something cut for every shape - while one little red cocktail dress made me look like a little red cocktail cherry, it absolutely transformed another girl in the changing room who after a quick squeal of delight at the fit purchased this for an evening wedding party - no, probably not that one, and was so pleased that she could get something to fit her assets and flatter her shape. It would seem for her, and all the busty girls amongst us the whole experience really is a sigh of relief - in more ways than one.

Pepperberry's mid-season sale is now on.

limited edition grunge glam nails from Topshop

2011-04-22T14:06:00.002+01:00

It's only been established a year (in fact it celebrates its first birthday this month) - but Topshop Makeup has well and truly cemented itself as a firm High Street fave, with innovative products including their highly sought after lip markers and Kate Moss style smudgy kohl shadows proving so popular that branches quickly sold out.

And of course it just wouldn't be Topshop if the brand didn't celebrate this special milestone in style. Meet the brand new limited collection metallic nail polishes to be launched next month.

From left to right Heart of Gold, Moonshine (rose gold) and Starlight (silver) are inspired by the antique, aged look of the iconic brand's Autumn/Winter's metallic leather swatches and will be available online and in stores from May priced at £6 each.

Personally, I can't wait to try out Heart of Gold, and think all 3 will make for the most gorgeous grunge-glam style nail tip when used in an alternative french manicure.

Oh, and Topshop Makeup is not alone in celebrating its first birthday, this month - pop by this weekend for a very special giveaway as www.girlinthecityglasgow.com also turns the big oh-one!

win a capsule collection of dresses with Nivea Invisible and ASOS

2011-04-18T19:00:00.002+01:00

Tonight Matthew, I’m going to be Trinny, umm and Susannah (I’m way more old school than Gok ‘bangers’ Wan) as I get to grips with the fab new competition on ASOS in association with Nivea.

To celebrate the launch of Nivea Invisible for Black and White Deodorant, Nivea have teamed up with ASOS to create a limited edition capsule collection of dresses, exclusively available to win online.

The competition runs from 18^th April until 31^st May, with 50 lucky competition winners receiving the exclusive range each week, courtesy of NIVEA and ASOS.

The four-piece monochrome collection gives minimal silhouettes for maximum effect, with clean cuts and precision pleats appearing across 2 ‘60s style shifts, a midi-length sheer dress and a full skater skirt dress.

My favourite of the collection is this simple, sheer black midi dress. Elbow length sleeves, clinched waist and an exposed zip lend a harder edge to this simple LBD, and the styling on ASOS is impeccable with a glimpse of vintage long line underwear, socks and chunky heeled sandals. All a little 90s (I can absolutely see Claire Danes rocking this, for some reason I consider her a real 90s icon – most probably because of angst teen drama My So Called Life) - with a slightly ballet-style twist that a soft, wrapped cardigan, messy bun and nude pumps or loafers would only accentuate.

Yep, it may sound clichéd but the Little Black Dress really is a wardrobe staple, and with the sun starting to make reappearance (hurrah) and those proms, festivals, (royal?) weddings around the corner, heck, let’s mix-up sophisticated style with some bohemian chic and add a Little White Dress to the wish list too (and repeat mantra – “I will channel the Chung, I will channel the Chung”)

Alexa rocks a vintage white sheer dress, see my take from ASOS at the bottom of the post!

And helping me cool with frock-friendly precision will be Nivea Invisible Deodorant. Not only does it smell fresh and clean (tick!) it offers the most advanced ‘white mark’ protection on the market, as well as giving protection against tough yellow stains (eew, yes… but an unwelcome effect of deodorant, washing powder and sweat) – all dermatologically tested with no alcohol or colourants no less.

To be in with the chance of winning this exclusive capsule collection, click through to www.asos.com/nivea to test your styling skills and accessorize each dress with the perfect accompaniment – from slouchy over the shoulder satchel to slinky neon belts. And while you’re there why not check out ASOS’ fab mid season sale, or have a play with their new fashion finder tool where you can create your perfect outfit.

my Alexa Chung inspired look from previous picture, clockwise:

Evil Twin Mesh Back tunic dress, £65

ASOS Peace Sign long pendant, £8

Models Own nail varnish in Bloo Bloo, £5

ASOS Skinny Patent belt, was £12, now £5

Carvela Seam Heeled Platform Elastic Ankle Boot, was £160, now £64

Nica Tilly Mini Cross Body Bag, was £25 now £15

all available from www.asos.com

NIVEA INVISIBLE FOR BLACK & WHITE DEODORANT is available in two fresh fragrances, Clear and Pure. Each fragrance is available as a 35ml mini spray (£1.07), 150ml spray (£2.03), 250ml spray (£3.22) and a 50ml roll-on (£2.03).

Established in June 2000, ASOS.com is the UK's largest independent online fashion and beauty retailer and offering over 36,000 branded and own label product lines across womenswear alone.

This post was written by a pristine girlinthecityglasgow

and sponsored by Nivea

a big thank you to Hardy and Scott for the yummy blondies and brownies I nibbled while online shopping at ASOS

tutu good with Bebaroque and the Scottish Fashion Awards

2011-03-31T14:49:00.003+01:00

Earlier this year I accompanied 3 beautiful ballet dancers, with 3 exquisite cream asymmetric tutus to an industrial estate somewhere in Glasgow.

On arrival at a large, hangar like studio, the dancers turned to me and asked ‘is this it?’ – confused because they had been asked to take part in perhaps one of the most glamorous fashion campaigns currently hosted in Scotland.

But as we opened the door, and headed further into the studio all three girls audibly gasped as we encountered a veritable Aladdin’s cave of the most incredible shoes, jewellery and clothes. Sigh, fashion heaven!

shoes supplied by Cruise

As part of this year’s Scottish Fashion Awards campaign, Scottish Ballet were asked to participate in an exciting photo shoot – to be used across media and in all advertising (the girls were particularly chuffed to hear that they’ll be featured on the main billboard campaign too).

Bethany Kingsley Garner, Nathalie Dupouy and Brenda Lee Grech will appear in the 2011 campaign which will feature across Glasgow Airport, the official website and media.

And dressed in matching Aurora tutus from the Company’s forthcoming performances of The Sleeping Beauty, the girls were styled with the most incredible haute couture tights from Bebaroque – a Scottish label that began in 2007 by Glasgow School of Art graduates Mhairi McNicol and Chole Patience, and is now an international success story – with finishing touches courtesy of Swarovski, who dressed the ballerinas in couture pieces from their Spring/Summer 11 collection.

The end result is an impressive clash of traditional ballet and contemporary attitude with the unexpected glimpse of wild and fabulous hosiery and jewels – a perfect fit for this year’s Scottish Fashion Awards theme, which organiser Tess Hartmann identifies as “celebrating the synergy of art, culture, theatre, music, performance, design and most importantly fun, with implosions of colour.”

Visitors to Glasgow can see the exclusive billboard campaign for this year’s awards at Glasgow Airport from May.

read more about my own trip to last year's Scottish Fashion Awards here

all photos by Hartmann Media

GOSH! no biscuits please, we're british

2011-03-28T19:00:00.006+01:00

Cheap, digestive biscuits... not how you want to smell after applying your self tan of choice.

Now I usually douse myself in the tasty gorgeous smelling Xen Tan (a choir of angels sing, sigh)... but a last minute occasion this weekend caught me unawares, and, with some flesh to flash I had to turn to a quick fix courtesy of St Moritz (bought with bottles of old lady purple shampoo at my local chemist).

St Moritz'd limb, body attached not seen

Truth be told, I was actually pretty happy with the colour (it doesn't quite wear like my true love Xen Tan, but it's fine for a last minute glow without that obvious orange radiance that some other self tans leave). But from past use I do know it really is rather, well, stinky.

Xen Tan Scent Secure masks the St Moritz 'biscuit' aroma with ease

So rather than attract skunks and men with cheap biscuit fetishes, I turned to my new favourite thing - Xen Tan Scent Secure.** This yummy, moisturiser from those clever bods at XT is super pampering, and used an hour before and after tanning it somehow sandwiches that less than tasty tan smell, neutralising chemical odours and leaving your skin soft and smelling utterly delicious (cucumber and melon seeing as you ask).

GOSH limited edition Groovy Grey nail varnish - a cool shot with opaque finish

And to complement my tan, I chose to wear my nails short and chic in GOSH's Groovy Grey - one of four new limited edition shades currently included in GOSH's bargainous 3 for 2 offer at Superdrug counters now (my purchase was made up with Neon Baby - a seriously hot pink colour, and their new matt top coat - a combo that I think I'll probably rock together sometime soon). These new limited edition shades come in cute little bottles each with their own 'girly' designed lid, and if Groovy Grey is anything to go by - they're seriously opaque, even after one coat.

GOSH Groovy Grey, Neon Baby and Top Coat varnishes

Xen Tan Scent Secure is priced £24.99 for a generous, and is available in shops or on www.xen-tan.co.uk now. GOSH nail varnishes retail at £4.99 and are currently on a 3 for 2 promotion at a Superdrug near you. The other two limited edition shades recently released are Lavender Love and Misty Mauve - check out @Tsunimee's post here to see them.

uncontrollable lust

2011-03-20T12:33:00.001Z

Oh woe is me.

I've fallen deeply, madly in love with something that can't be mine.

Meet the French Connection Fast Princess dress (yes, I did just write Fast Princess, and no, I'm not sure why it's called that either - but I like it!)

the French Connection Fast Princess dress in bronze/brown, black/grey and pavlova/milka

I believe this was one of the main French Connection party dresses early last year, but I've only just set my peepers on it, and oh how I want it hanging in my wardrobe (and shaking its thang dans le discothèque, natch)

This seems to have gone into the sale at £55 - and apart from a couple of overpriced pavlova/milka versions on eBay - disappeared off the face of the earth.

Why do you always want what you can't have?

Blythswood Square hotel and spa - 5 star luxury in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland with Style

2011-03-13T13:26:00.003Z

I was recently tasked with the job of trying out the luxury facilities** on offer at the gorgeous, five star Blythswood Square hotel and spa in Glasgow (sigh, it’s a hard job – but someone has to do it!) ;)

And from the minute I stepped into the hotel’s decadent foyer area (in itself quite beautiful with high ceilings and exquisite finishings – including a number of cheeky little private seating areas, decadently finished in plush red velvet – ooh, la la!) I knew I was in for the perfect overnight stay.

even the reception area is breathtaking - this is only part of it

Nothing is too much hassle for the staff at Blythswood Square – we were even shown to our room personally and given a ‘tour’ of its facilities – from the glorious bathroom area with its built in speakers and Jacuzzi detail - oh, and a fabulous sliding mirror that meant, if so desired, you could open the bathroom to the bedroom and watch any one of the forty or so films on demand (some of which were actually still in the cinema) from your very own bubble bath.

I promise I'm not actually having a bath here!!

And next, the Spa – can you say aaaaaaaah - even the reception area, with its chic decor and subtle lighting, felt absolutely relaxing. The changing room, scented quite heavenly with the aroma of burning ila candles, was glorious and could have rivalled Carrie’s very own walk in closet with its abundance of dressing areas, freshly laundered fluffy towels and dressing gowns.

part of the Blythswood Spa treatment area - beautiful

In our personal lockers we found complimentary water and a welcome letter and itinerary with more information on our treatments, and suggestions on how to make best use of the Spa’s incredible thermal experience – the Laconium to start (a good place to relax in warmth as your body heats up gently and slowly in the dry, warm air), next the Saunarium (somewhere between a sauna and a steam room, combining the benefits of both in a more moderate form). After that the traditional Sauna – or if preferred the Crystal Steam room (particularly good for clearing out the respiratory tract and helping you to breathe more easily) followed by a quick stop at the spa’s Ice Fountain or Tepidarium room where you can relax for up to 30 minutes, cooling down and de-stressing.

spa tepidarium

And no Spa would be complete without use of a pool – and in this case 2 – the Hydro Pool and Vitality Pool, both designed to aid in the relaxation of tired and aching joints, the pools contain a selection of hydrotherapy body jets, floor jets and seated areas with jets to gently massage the entire body (oh and lots of quite beautiful, subtle changing lights too, gorgeous!)

the colourful hydro therapy pool

We made full use of these facilities following our individual treatments - an ila Luxurious seaweed foot experience for me – possibly the most relaxing foot massage in the world finished with an immaculate pedicure using Leighton Denny varnishes. And for my friend the ila Ky Nye massage in which the therapist paid particular attention to what she – and her body requested and reacted to – following a long, hard ballet tour this apparently hit just the spot(s) and I swear I’ve never seen her look quite as relaxed and blissed out before. Perfect.

a relaxing spa treatment room

Promotional posters alerted us to the Spa’s new Real Sunlight room – a beach themed room and 100% safe UVA and UVB sunlight lamps with Vitamin D. We had a quick post treatment session on the sunbeds and, closing our eyes, agreed that it was just like lying on the beach on a glorious sunny day (the only thing missing was a cold cocktail!)

it's the little personal touches that make Blythswood so perfect

Feeling absolutely pampered we made our way back up to our hotel room to change for dinner, to find a little welcome postcard with some very Scottish treats laid out in the room’s seated area – it’s those little personal touches that make you feel very welcome indeed, and Blythswood seem to really make the most of this as we also noticed at dinner with dedicated staff who know just when to appear to top up your drinks, offer you another freshly baked bread rolls, enquire after your needs... and then leave you alone to enjoy your meal without interruption.

And it was the same at after dinner cocktails in the hotel’s stunning Salon (which is open to non-residents too, and with its specially made Harris Tweed soft furnishings could not be a more exquisite way to enjoy perfectly blended drinks – both on and off menu – in Glasgow’s city centre) with our waiter keeping us topped up with lovely nibbly bits as well as expertly explaining the various drinks and brands to us.

the most delicious cocktails, ever

Feeling very satisfied we retired to our incredibly comfy (and huuuge!) beds, content and pampered and enjoyed a seriously good night’s sleep, followed by what could only be described as the breakfast of kings the next morning – with a table laden with fruits, breads, cereals, seeds, pulses, meats and fish as well as a choice of a substantial warm breakfast menu – everything from a Full Scottish (my choice – and wow, what a way to start the day) to fresh smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, Eggs Benedict (in fact eggs any which way you please) and lots of other tasty treats. Oh, and check out the Bloody Mary station too – a perfect way to start your morning after the night before perhaps?

the Bloody Marys were popular at breakfast

Our experience at Blythswood Square and use of the hotel’s spa could not have been any more perfect, and this girlinthecity could not recommend it more. Whether you’re a visitor to the city or a Glasgow girl (or boy!) yourself, Blythswood Square is a must ‘do’ – from the perfect pamper treat with ila in the hotel’s Spa - to dinner and cocktails that will absolutely tantalise your tastebuds, this hotel is the place to go in Glasgow.

Oh, and given that we bumped into the gorgeous Paulo Nutini and his equally as handsome entourage in the spa and hotel too, we’re guessing we’re not the only ones to give it our rock and roll approval.

behind the scenes at Blythswood Square hotel with Glasgow, Scotland with Style

Book a Glasgow spring city break and receive 15% off the hotel’s best available bed and breakfast rate until 31 May 2011 or enjoy an Easter break in Glasgow this year at Blythswood Square from £200 per room per night, based on two adults sharing a Classic bedroom (available from 22 – 25 April 2011).

Relax and rejuvenate at Blythswood Square spa with the special Detox package priced from £89 per person, and including full use of the thermal experience, a Blythswood Seaweed Bath, Body Scrub and Detox Smoothie. The Detox Package is also available as a residential spa break, including dinner and overnight accommodation, priced from £320 per room per night.

Check out the hotel’s website for further information on special hotel and spa deals.

To watch a video of Scottish Ballet dancers opening an exclusive Harris Tweed fashion show in the Blythswood Square salon, visit my YouTube channel here.

are you sitting comfortably? a clinique-al analaysis and debenham's next cosmetic day bonanza

2011-03-09T16:21:00.003Z

Earlier this week, this girl in the city was invited into Debenhams Glasgow to have her makeup bag analysed.

Setting aside mental images of tiny little leather couches and a nodding psychiatric with chin stroking tendencies, I popped the bags (ahem, yes plural - although in my defence one is a brush bag!) into my handbag and moseyed on down to the Argyle Street department store.

*not* giving up make up for Lent

And wow has this store pulled up it's oh-so-trendy socks recently. Following a recent modernisation programme, Debenhams Glasgow now has the largest cosmetics department of any Debenhams store in Scotland. The beauty hall is like a shiny wonderland of all things gorgeous - incredible concessions from Illamasqua, Chanel, Aveda and Benefit (with its very own Benefit brow bar) sit alongside new additions Elemis, Origins and Bare Escentuals - there's even a dedicated vintage styled beauty 'salon' called Filthy Gorgeous (apparently this is the only one in any Debenhams outside Oxford Street, London) oh, and did I mention that they stock OCC Lip Tars? Awesome.

My 'anaylis' appointment was at the Clinique counter, where I think my poor (beauty) therapist Cheryl was a little overwhelmed by my great humping big bag of makeup (although I seemed to have introduced her to cheap and cheerful brand e.l.f - something kinda nice about that, huh?) I was applauded however for keeping my brushes separate from my makeup (keeps them cleaner, and less likely to pick up additional bacteria) and picked up a handy little bit of advice to dry my brushes lying flat rather than upright in a glass or container (again for sanitary reasons). I did however get told off for my five million bottles of old foundation (I have a problem with the new formula of Revlon colorstay so actively seek old bottles on eBay, I'm a bad beauty blogger) - apparently foundation has a life of around 2 years maximum and shouldn't really be used thereafter (actually, why don't more brands offer 'use by dates' on their products?)

In return for sharing the deep, dark secrets of my own cosmetics bag(s) I was offered a full Cinique consultation and makeover. While it's a brand that I often consider for skincare, it really is one that I've neglected makeup wise, so I was delighted at the chance to have a bit of a play with some of their new products.

the Clinique 'computer' (with knobs)

Clinique really do go for the whole clinical approach, with cosmetics developed to help - and heal - skincare problems too. In fact, there's a whole range of foundation and base products to actively target specific dermatological concerns including uneven skin tone, blemishes, pores, redness and more. I tried out some of their redness solutions foundation and corrector and was blown away by the even coverage given.

I also fell in love with their Instant Lift for Brows (a handy little soft eyebrow crayon and creamy under brow concealer/highlighter duo product, £13), the cute-as-a-button Bottom Lash mascara which instantly opened my eyes with a fabulous doll lash look, £10) and the colours in this gorgeous little Milly Pretty in Prints compact (£25), inspired by New York fashion designer Michelle Smith. I'll definitely be placing all 3 on my next pay day shopping list - alongside Clinique's All About Lips primer (£15.50 which kept my lips seriously smooth all day.)

from top to bottom: Clinique's Milly Pretty in Prints compact (and very cute pouch), and the MUA created smokey eye using the last two colours, instant lift for brow crayon and bottom lash mascara (used on top lashes too!)

Tomorrow, Thursday 10 March Debenhams Glasgow officially relaunch their new look beauty hall with a self proclaimed Cosmetics Day. Not the catchiest of names admittedly, but it does what says on the (fabulously branded) tin. Pop in for your chance to meet the store's team of experts, with masterclasses, special promos and giveaways ... oh, and I hear on the grapevine that there might even be some very special hunky Scottish sporting type men getting scrubbed up at the Clinique counter - ooft, beauty club card at the ready girls - I'll see you there!

kate wiglet? winslet premieres new blonde crop for vogue magazine

2011-03-07T19:20:00.001Z

English Rose Kate Winslet seems to have shed more than a few petals recently - just look at these photos shot by Mario Testino for the April edition of Vogue.

This is Winslet's third Vogue cover, and she is pictured wearing a £1,400 Rouland Mouret viscose-knit dress. Make-up is by Lancôme

In her interview the actress talks about starting again, following her split from husband Sam Mendes.

She certainly won't be the last woman to embark on the goodbye lover, hello new hair and body regime, but wow does she do it with panache...

Sam, who?

Love the crop... but have to ask - is it real or has Winslet gone all wiggy on us? (her cover for the April edition of US Glamour magazine suggests yes) Still, with that bod' the girl could go bald and still look incredible.

Winslet's new mini-series, Mildred Pierce, premieres on HBO this month, and later on new UK channel Sky Atlantic.

Thanks to Kirsty at Forty Four Sunsets for the heads up :)

All images www.vogue.co.uk

little fille

2011-02-27T11:30:00.003Z

little fille Betty headband £32 from Topshop, Oxford Circus, London

eyes: MAC groundwork paint pot (lid) /

Boots No 17 photo flawless black gold pencil (crease)

MAC dubbonet lipstick

falling in love

2011-02-14T13:54:00.004Z

wishing you all a wonder(land)ful valentine's day

Scottish Ballet's world premiere of Alice tours from 12 April 2010

whoever sent the roses - thank you :)

love is a battlefield - armour rings and sleek's stiletto collection

2011-02-13T19:36:00.005Z

Dear Cupid,

There's only one thing setting my heart a-spin at the moment - these Vivenne Westwood armour rings.

But while neither you or I have a spare £170 currently I'm getting myself ready for warfare in a slinky little piece of armour from Topshop instead.

Topshop armour ring £14.99 (also available in gold colour)

And while I'm really a lover, not a fighter... I'll match my weapons of ringdom with Sleek's Geisha's Seal nail polish RRP £3.89 (a hot little brick red, with awesome one-coat powers) - part of the limited edition valentine Stiletto collection.

swatched L-R: Sleek Scandalous blush RRP £4.29, Sleek Scandal pout polish RRP £4.29

Sleek's Stiletto collection is only available until 16 February - don't miss your chance to take home this highly pigmented, true red collection - for Sirons and Ladies in shining armour everywhere...

pantone announce new fashion colour report for autumn / winter 11/12

2011-02-10T12:46:00.005Z

Each season, Pantone surveys the designers of New York Fashion Week and beyond to collect feedback on prominent collection colours, colour inspiration and colour philosophy. This information is used to create the PANTONE Fashion Colour Report, which serves as a reference tool throughout the year for fashion enthusiasts, reporters and retailers.

Today - to coincide with the start of New York Fashion week – Pantone unveiled the PANTONE^® Fashion Colour Report Fall 2011.

The report features the top 10 colours for women’s fashion for autumn (fall) 2011, along with designer sketches, quotes and headshots – you can see it in its entirely chic colourful glory here.

The top colours for women’s fashion for fall 2011 are:

PANTONE 14-0740 Bamboo

Warm and exotic – a stand out yellow with a subtle green overtone, pairs dramatically with several of the top 10, including Phlox, Teal and Honesuckle.

PANTONE 17-1547 Emberglow

A tradional autumnal tone, emanates the warmth of a glowing fire. Combine Emberglow with Coffee Liqueur for a classic look, or with Honeysuckle for something a bit more retro.

PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle

This playful, reddish pink works with any other colour in the palette, especially fall staples like Coffee Liqueur and Nougat. To add some intensity, pair it with complementary Bamboo. Honeysuckle produces a healthy glow - great for cosmetics and holiday soirees.

PANTONE 19-2820 Phlox

A magical, deep purple with a hint of mystery, is an outstanding statement when worn on its own. Add Phlox to this season’s neutrals to create a bit of drama.

PANTONE 16-0526 Cedar

A versatile, mid-tone neutral green. It is a natural with Deep Teal, and sophisticated and timeless with Phlox or Orchid Hush..

PANTONE 19-4914 Deep Teal

A strong, blue-toned green - a great standard when used with Cedar, its colour-wheel neighbour.

PANTONE 18-0930 Coffee Liqueúr

Bringing a sense of elegance to fall, and is a savory alternative to basic black.

PANTONE 16-1320 Nougat

Tastefully embellished by Phlox, Emberglow or Honeysuckle.

PANTONE 13-3805 Orchid Hush

A unique tone of gray with complex orchid undertones.

PANTONE 15-4305 Quarry

A reliable medium gray, remains, as always, a practical, dependable staple.

“Designers take a painterly approach to fall 2011 by artfully combining bright colours with staple neutrals, reminiscent of how an artist would construct a stunning work of art,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute^®. “Much like a painter’s masterpiece, there is a certain romance to this season’s palette.”

Taking cues from the great masters, sepia tones of old Hollywood, Chinese opera, cityscapes and countryside, designers are paying close attention to texture, contrast and colour for fall 2011 – pairing menswear with feminine twists, warm prints with cool metals, incorporating both old and new influences, and creating an intriguing balance between colours.

The colours featured in the PANTONE Fashion Colour Report are culled from the PANTONE FASHION + HOME Colour System, the most widely used and recognized colour standards system in the world.

Pantone also asked a number of fashion designers if they could add any colour to the Pantone Fashion + Home Colour System, what would they add and why - and what would they name it. You can see the designers' choice here - absolutely love the sound of Rebecca Taylor's 'Eighth Avenue' - a sparkly gray.

Rebecca also put forward the inspiration image for Honeysuckle (Pantone 18 - 2120) and names her 'must have' item for autumn (fall) - as Patched faux fur outerwear... sign me up now! - I'm definitely way more excited about autumn/winter wear than spring/summer and can't wait to visit London Fashion Week later this month for (the incredible) Christopher Kane show.

Meanwhile while Pantone continue to provide an incredible kalaedoscope of colour references for fashion and interior inspirations, how long can it be before we see such a comprehensive approach to cosmetics?

Sadly these are only design concept images by Renata Veiga - but fingers crossed it's only a matter of time...

to turban or not to turban, that is the question.

2011-02-05T18:48:00.003Z

After seeing the gorgeous Milly rock her new Crown and Glory velvet turban headband I was inspired to try on this awesome burgundy velvet bow headband (£12 from Topshop).

Add caption

It was a lot more wearable than I first thought, but still not sure how it would go down walking the streets of Glasgow town.

What do you think ladies, to turban or not to turban this season?

diet coke, glamorous varnishes and grace woodward

2011-01-30T21:17:00.005Z

barararararuump ... I don't wantcheeeew to be no slave

barararararuump ... I don't wantcheeeew to work all day ...

man, love Etta Jones, love the Diet Coke 'break' adverts (sadly still waiting for my hunky Diet Coke break man to come into wash the windows at our work, sigh) - and actually, kinda love those little Diet Coke girly puppets. would it be sad to admit that I took a picture of one of them to my hairdresser for my pixie cut inspiration? yes? ... okay, best keep that one to myself then!) ;)

and while I'm a full fat coke kinda girl when it comes to mixing my bourbons - during the day my lunchtime guilty pleasure definitely involves a verrry cold Diet Coke (with lime, mmm!) - and, of course, a wee blog catch up (who needs ridiculously expensive magazines - you guys rock my lunchtimes!).

this year, those clever little Diet Coke bods once again hooked up with Nails Inc to bring you a range of 4 limited edition colours.

Not only that, they also brought in the hottest-brit-in-awesome-specs (as I like to call her) - Grace Woodward to give you the run down on how to work your new nail trends.

click on photos to enlarge

The colours really are beautiful - and I love how they compliment each other. Last night I opted for Plum on my tootsies, and Caramel on my fingernails. Similarly I think Denim and Heather Grey would also work together in a nice contrast of hues - a kinda cool and warm clash with delectable results.

absolute classic shades from Nails Inc and Diet Coke** (and tan by Xen Tan!)

edit 05/02 - my friend Leigh Ann models Denim and Heather Grey:

Oooh, and check out the awesome leopard print nail that Saskia the Style Fairy put together using Caramel and Heather Grey. Gaaawjus!

I've heard on the grape, umm, coke vine that Diet Coke have a few other awesome treats for us in store this year, and am keeping my now perfectly nail polished fingers crossed that they're equally as exciting as the fabulous collaboration.

Grab your limited edition varnishes while you still can - 1 free with the purchase of 2 bottles of Diet Coke when purchased in store at Boots.

MAC new cremeblend blush vs blushcreme

2011-01-25T13:34:00.007Z

It might be the man-flu I'm currently suffering from (yes, it really is that bad) but recently my skin has been taking such a battering from the elements that I have found myself craving that fresh, glowing skin better suited to a sunnier clime, and so I've been finding solace in my Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream (dubious foosty smell oui, but hello soft, glossy eyelids), and happily bluffing my way to a perfect dewy complexion with a little MAC face and body (resurrects any matte finish foundation) and MAC blushcreme in Ladyblush - winter may hate your skin, but MAC blushcreme loves it and this longstanding relationship has outlasted many a dabble with powder finish blush.

MAC blushcreme in Ladyblush

So when I heard recently that MAC had announced they would be discontinuing my beloved blushcreme, well my heart sank - and I seriously considered an Ebay massacre of epic proportions to buy up all the pots I could get my mitts on.

But, be still my beating credit card...

Behold the promotional image for MAC's forthcoming Cremeblend Blush collection for Spring 2011.

Some of you might remember these from last year's Lilyland collection, and in fact So Sweet, So Easy (a bright yellow pink) makes its comeback here, along with Brit Wit (dusty rose mauve), Posey (warm peach), Something Special (light coral), Tea Petal (midtone reddish brown) and - fanfares please - Ladyblush (warm neutral coral).

Hmm, so yes - Ladyblush does make a reappearance here alongside 2 other familiar names from the current (soon to disappear) blushcreme range - Posey and Brit Wit - but the colour description is definitely different (my Ladyblush is a definite pink - no coral tones!) so while I can't be sure whether these will be the same products re-promoted, I am excited to try them. If I remember correctly the finish is slightly more gel-like than the blushcremes which might make them just that tiny little bit easier to work with than the current creamy formula.

And while I'm not sure where the 'purple' cremeblend blush translates from the promotional image, MAC's press release suggests an interesting approach to using the new cremeblends - building your base using three colour aspects - one matched to your skin, one to contour and one to brighten or highlight, and using a light hand for a subtle natural glow, or slightly darker for an old school Hollywood Glamour 'retro rouge' look. (mm, retro rouge!!)

Either way, with my beloved blushcreme being cast to the darkness of discontinued products, I'll certainly be visiting my local counter when this new (permanent!) collection hits stores mid March.

shorts, stripes and louboutins

2011-01-16T22:26:00.007Z

Just a quick outfit post featuring this striped Topshop slouch top and these criminal denim shorts ... oooh and a very special shoe-based present :)