Clinique Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara - A Review

When I found myself in need of a new mascara, my interest was peaked by the latest Clinique launch. A range of coloured mascaras including Portly Plum and Two Ton Teal as well as your general fail safe Jumbo Jet (black if you weren't sure).

The shade I had my eye on however, was Black Honey which, despite my best efforts, I could not find in store. I tried several Boots, John Lewis and even my local House of Fraser. As such, I resorted to purchasing online directly from Clinique. The plus side being, I got a whole load of freebies!

Now, what you need to know about the Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara is that its a volumising mascara that promises serious oommff with a gorgeous hit of colour.

It comes in a whopping great tube which is colour coded to match the product inside, As you can see, the colour I was so desperate to get my mitts on was Black Honey, a gorgeous burgundy shade.

The brush is one of those plastic ones as opposed to a bristle brush but this does ensure that the product applies evenly to the lash without the need to apply numerous coats.

As you can see, it's the tiny bristles which grip the lashes giving them awesome volume, and I mean awesome! What I loved about this product is that there wasn't too much product leftover on the brush once you pulled it out of the tube as demonstrated above.

Above are my before and after photos. I'll leave you to deduce which one is which, what I will say however, is that I'm wearing no other make up apart from the Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara and only two swift coats at that.

Here it is as part of a totally put together face. The colour itself isn't that noticeable on the lashes, I think you can see there is something a little different but you can't quite place your finger on what. In terms of longevity, I've had absolutely no issues with flaking or crumbling and I've actually found I need to use a good quality bio-phase make-up remover to get this off!

If you're interesting in trying the new Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara for yourself, it's £17.50 and can be picked up from Boots, House of Fraser, John Lewis etc. If however, you'd like to try the Black Honey shade, I'd recommend ordering online as I've not found it in store.

Have you tried the new Clinique mascara? Are you a bristle brush or plastic brush girl? Are you keen to try out any coloured mascaras?

Outfit of the Day - Geoprint Jumpsuit

Yup, I'm sharing yet another jumpsuit based post. I can't help it, at the moment I'm totally addicted to jumpsuits and playsuits not least of all because they're so simple to style! Just grab out of the wardrobe, slip on some gorgeous shoes and you're good to go.

Today I'm wearing:

Jumpsuit: Influence Geo Print Jumpsuit - Joy - £35

Shoes: Super old from Faith

Bag: Leather Satchel - Dr Martens 

First of all, I want to talk about my satchel which I was fortunate enough to win from the Dr Martens charity raffle at Pride in Brighton. It's their gorgeous Charro satchel, and is made from a dark brown leather which was customised in gold by a local Brighton artist called Rosie Toole. 

Whilst the customisation makes this piece truly one of a kind, it seems a shame to keep it cooped up in a dust cover in the cupboard. It's old school style and beautifully timeless construction means it really fits with my sense of fashion whilst adding something a little bit different. I do love my quirky and unique pieces.

Next, lets talk about this stunning Influence Geo Print Jumpsuit which I picked up from Joy online for a bargain £35. It has a real 70's feel to it with the geometric print in neutral colours and high waisted fit. The trouser legs are wide and flowing which meant that a wooden chunky heel was the perfect pairing footwear wise.

What really attracted me to this jumpsuit was the backless aspect which is accentuated by the double strap detailing and low fabric tie (excuse the tag sticking out, I cut it off when I got home). I do love an excuse to show off my tattoos whenever I get the opportunity. 

As you can see from the image below, the jumpsuit itself is high waisted which means that it really nips you in making for a really flattering fit. 

I got lots of compliments whilst out and about which is always a nice surprise! I purchased this in the last couple of weeks as a payday treat so it's still available for you to nab if it takes your fancy, they had sizes 10 through 14. I haven't spotted it in my local Joy store so it may be worthwhile simply purchasing online if you like the look of it. 

How would you style this jumpsuit? I'd thought about grabbing a floppy hat to add to the 70's aesthetic but I'd be grateful for your thoughts.

Monday Munchies - Franco Manca

London's restaurant scene is growing so quickly, it's become somewhat difficult to keep up with the ever evolving foodie trends, pop ups and even the street vendors finally moving into permanent spaces.

One such restaurant which is expanding at a rapid pace is Franco Manca which now has 15 branches all over London.

I visited the branch in Covent Garden which, to my surprise was available right away despite being 7:00 on a Saturday. Especially given that glowing reviews this place has had from the Times and even Tattler magazine.

The menu itself is simple with just 6 different pizzas on offer and a great range of drinks, there are also specials on the board inside the restaurant if nothing on the menu takes your fancy.

Ad and I opted for a simple starter of cured meats with a very simple salad.

Ad had a number 6 pizza which had organic chorizo and mozzarella, while I had the number 4 which came with old spot ham, buffalo ricotta and mushrooms.

Both pizzas of course came on a sourdough base which has been slow rising for around 20 hours before being baked in a wood burning brick oven at 500 degrees. The appeal of sourdough is that it's apparently easier for the body to digest than your typical white bread.

The pizza was delicious, the bases were soft and chewy whilst the toppings were delightful. Ad even said the chorizo was some of the best he'd ever tasted. It was clear that Franco Manca take pride in their ingredients which have been sourced from top quality suppliers such as Neal's Yard, the Country Butcher and Scorgiano in Italy.

Perhaps the most surprising thing about our super tasty first visit was the price. Despite starters, two pizzas and alcoholic beverages, the total bill came to less than £30. Thus meaning Ad and I will be back in the not to distant future if we need something to quell our pizza cravings.

Have you been to Franco Manca? Do you enjoy sourdough?

Outfit of the Day - Keep It Simple Stupid

The ultimate fashion dilemma for me is what to wear when the you have no frikken idea what the weather is supposed to do? I mean, you can't wear a dress or skirt for fear the wind will end up flashing your pants to the entire world. You also don't really want to wear shorts in case it's pretty nippy and due to rain. And what if it's sunny? Do you really want to be in skinny jeans?

I decided that when in doubt, Keep It Simple Stupid was the best philosophy to have and that is what I did.

Today, I'm wearing:

Top: Brandy Melville

Jeans: Marks & Spencer Limited Collection

Bag: Lulu Guinness

Shoes: Converse

Whilst the jeans are pretty slim fitting, they seem to suck everything in without my tummy hanging over the top which is always a plus with me. Every girl likes to feel supported in their clothing!

This top from Brandy Melville is super loose, soft and flowing which was ideal in case it transpired to be a pretty hot day. Plus, as my day involved plenty of food and drink, I wanted something that would hide the resulting evidence. 

As finishing touches, a pair of Converse are ideal for hours of walking while an oversized fun printed bag is great for stuffing any essentials such as a brolly in, just in case of course.

What's your go to outfit when the weather is undecided? How do you keep it simple?

Our Croatian Adventure - Things to do in Dubrovnik

Today marks the last of my Croatian travel posts, I've really enjoyed doing these little recaps and I'm especially proud of the fact that they'll serve as a travel diary full of hints and inspiration for any would be Croatian travellers.

As I only really explored Old Town Dubrovnik, this post will focus on bits and pieces to do in and around this area. What I would say as my first handy tip is that the water fountains all have drinkable water so be sure to keep a water bottle on you and keep refilling whenever you get the chance. You can no doubt spot a chap to the right of the frame doing just this!

One of the great things about Dubrovnik is that it's a great city to just waddle around at your own pace. Most of the pathways on the main strip are paved with limestone which has become so polished over the years that it almost looks like glass.

The main street is called Placa or Stradun and is full of cute little shops and boutiques including a pirate sweet shop (yes I ventured in, yes it was awesome) which sold giant gummy bears, enormous cola bottles and humongous fried eggs which would bring joy to any person. There were also pharmacies complete with all of my favourite brands such as Avene, Vichy and Ren so a great place for beauty lovers as well.

Of course, there are many side streets which are also worth your time as they sell a variety of wares ranging from olive oil, chutneys and brandies to Game of Thrones memorabilia and art work by local artists. Be warned however, many streets do involve steps!

I believe that during the week the square situated by the Rectors Palace also plays host to a farmers market making Dubrovnik quite the destination for foodies. Here you can purchase many local delights including candied orange peel for which every family has their own recipe, no two bags will be alike.

Aside from general wandering, there are plenty of places to visit in Dubrovnik including the Cathedral above, the Rectors Palace as previously mentioned and several gardens which are tucked away.

If that doesn't take your fancy, then I would highly suggest a walk around the City Walls which offers some amazing views of the Old Town.

If however, the City Walls aren't quite high enough for you, then perhaps a trip up the Dubrovnik cable car will be more to your liking?

A round trip costs around 108 Kuna per person and the views from the top are spectacular. It takes around 4 minutes to ride to the top which is situated 405 metres above sea level. 

From the top you have a wonderful view of the Old Town, the island of Lokrum and far beyond. We were lucky enough to have visited on a clear day so we could see for miles.

 Another view from the top

The newer side of Dubrovnik

Sorry, I couldn't help sharing so many photographs from the top. It really was beautiful up there. If you're so inclined there is a cafe serving food and drinks, a gift shop and of course, there's a toilet so don't panic about being caught short.

Once you're back on the ground, then be sure to take some time to explore a little outside of the city walls. If nothing else, it offers a break from plethora of tourists.

When all is said and done I'd recommend heading home via ferry as it lets you see the city in a new light. We took the ferry to and from Dubrovnik via Cavtat which took about 45 minutes each way at a cost of 9 Kuna each return if I remember rightly.

Outfit of the Day - The Patterned Jumpsuit

Ad and I recently ventured to down to Brighton for Pride, one of my favourite things to do in the summer. We always watch the parade before heading to Preston Park to take part in the festival, i.e. listen to some awesome music, enjoy the sunshine and drink plenty of cider.

Outfit wise, I knew I wanted something which had a bit of relaxed boho vibe, but I also wanted something I would feel comfortable in when we ventured to Revolution later that evening.

Today I'm wearing:

Jumpsuit: Edrea Jumpsuit - Hilfiger Denim - £45

Sandals: Hush Puppies

Bag: Limited Edition - Marks & Spencer

Sunglasses: Free from Barefoot Wines

First, lets talk about this jumpsuit. Normally I'm not one for designer bits and pieces but this is currently half price in the Very sale having been reduced from £90 to £45. It's still available in all sizes (bar the small) so I thought I better blog about it sooner rather than later before it sells out.

What really drew me was the halterneck style and the tie up back which is cute and ideal for days in the sunshine. The print itself is a bold electric/cobalt blue which has a slight Aztec feel to it making it pretty on trend for this season.

The fit is slightly slouchy which gives things a pretty casual feel. The trouser portion is straight legged making it perfect for us ladies with bigger calf muscles.

It's kept feeling chic via the elasticated waist, side zip detailing and leather thing belt which I tied on a figure of 8 as opposed to a traditional bow. It's also worth mentioning that this jumpsuit came with roomy side pockets and also some pockets which sit to the rear.

As I wanted to keep the festival feel, I paired this with tan sandals and my Limited Edition bag from Marks & Spencer with cute floral detailing. Ad grabbed me the floral headband from a street vendor on the day for a few pounds. It certainly added to the whole festival vibe.

One thing I would say is that you may want to consider washing this a couple of times before wearing. I wore this for the first time to Pride and it left my legs and torso rather blue. The colour also transferred to my bag where it rubbed against the print. Whilst the blue washed straight off with a bit of soap and water, it is worth noting in case you plan on sitting on any cream sofas or have a beautiful prized handbag which has a tendency to take on colour.

Make-up wise, it has to be simple and fuss free given we planned on dancing away from 11-6. As such, I'm wearing the Double Wear Light foundation by Estee Lauder, a mix of my Bobbi Brown Shadow Sticks and the new Clinique Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara in Black Honey.

How would you style this jumpsuit? Would you wear something like this to a festival? Do you have any favourites when it comes to long wearing festival make-up?