Miss Lucy Loves... UK Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Blog

WORKING GIRL OOTD: LIPSY & RIVER ISLAND

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000Z

Wearing: Lipsy Trouser with Faux Leather Detail, £38 | Lipsy Lace Bow Blouse, £38 | River Island Black Court Shoes, £25 | Denham Penguin Jacket, £gift.

Having never owned anything from Lipsy in my entire life, last week I suddenly acquired two new Lipsy pieces. The first I bought from ASOS as I was desperately seeking a pair of skinny trousers that were work appropriate (non-denim). I ordered the 8 and have been failing to diet my way into them. I have to say I kinda love them but they're not work appropriate.

In the same week, Lipsy sent me this super bright pink blouse*. It's so cute. Yes it's very bright but I love the bow and button fastening at the back and pink is one of the very few colours I'll happily wear.

The shoes were a bargainous £25 from River Island but I got the size 3 and they need some serious breaking in. Ouch.

Please excuse the lack of make-up - BB cream and no eye make-up. Really should make more effort.

*PR sample

WHAT'S IN MY SHOWER?

2012-02-12T08:00:00.000Z

I like posts like these. They highlight the products which we all take for granted every single day. If they're good enough to be in your shower (and therefore in use), they must be worth a little mention. Right?

TRESemme Split Remedy Intense Recover Masque*
I mentioned this before but I really have been enjoying this product. I do use it as a conditioner every time I wash my hair though which is probably a bit naughty. Leaves hair super, super sleek when you get out of the shower.

Clarisonic Mia
I still love my little Clarisonic Mia. I'm probably a little less obsessed (which is a good thing) but I still think it's worked absolute wonders on my skin. My hormonal blemishes are here to stay but all the little ones have vanished since I started using this.

Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo*
I've used Aussie for years. Smells gorgeous and does a really good job, a fantastic shower staple and they now come in 500ml bottles.

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer
I've not yet tried this so maybe this is a little premature but as soon as I opened my last feelunique.com box I whipped this out and popped it in the shower (after photography!). Can't wait to use it.

Imperial Leather Skinkind Enrich*
I have been using Korres shower gel so maybe this doesn't feel quite as luxurious but damn does it smell good, really fruity and lovely on a morning when you want a wake up.

Cowshed Knackered Cow Relaxing Bath & Body Oil
I love bath oils. Aromatherapy Associates are probably my favourite but I really do love them all. I bought this one within a bulk lot of Cowshed goodies on eBay and adore it. I'm a big fan of Cowshed and really want to try more of their products, including more of their candles. This smells exactly like Wagamama Ebi Raikasuree which sounds a bit weird for a bath, but it really works!

bareMinerals Purifying Facial Cleanser
I've mentioned this before, a really great staple cleanser which removes make up and cleanses. I use this to get my mascara off and then use the Dermalogica product to cleanse with the Clarisonic. Really simple and gentle, I love this and considering I'm using it every day it's lasting a long time.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant*
I was given this at a Dermalogica/Harvey Nics event. It's kind of weird as it's a powder which you put on wet hands and that then forms an exfoliating paste. I like the weird factor of it being a powder, plus it's actually a really great exfoliator. Not too harsh on my skin but rejuvenating.

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel*
I really love this product and may have to purchase it once it's empty. It is the first cleanser I've found which actually foams when using with the Clarisonic. I think it's really helped my skin and this and the Clarisonic are a great little team.

I've got a basket in the bathroom that gets filled with things I've purchased, beauty box samples and PR samples and slowly work my way through them all. If I don't like it though, it doesn't stay in the shower for long!

*PR samples

GUEST REVIEW: SPA RITUAL NAIL VARNISH

2012-02-11T08:00:00.000Z

When I opened the parcel sent to me by SPA RITUAL, I almost immediately handed it to my colleague Claire. She's a huge, huge nail varnish fan and is far less afraid of colour than I am. As gorgeous as the shades I received were, they're not very me. But that doesn't mean I didn't want to share them with you so.. take it away Claire:

This may be a little premature, as I am writing this in the middle of a blizzard, but this shade is going to be big this summer! Browse the web for colour trends for 2012 and you will find, among other bright, block colours, this ‘jazzy’ (according to Miss Lucy) blue. I’m looking forward to this ‘technicolour’ summer and might even feel brave enough to team this Ebb & Flow* blue with some of its new besties, tangerine orange and grassy green! As for SPA RITUAL, they have gained two big thumbs up for a great brush handle, which has a rubber texture and grippy ridges, very important. Overall, a very nice nail polish, but I think I might have to wait till the snow thaws out before a hit the town with this colour.

Thanks Claire! They're also vegan (!?) and eco-friendly, so you can feel good about using them at the same time. I personally love the look of Deep and Hidden Reef. From £8.50.

*PR sample

FEELUNIQUE.COM BEAUTY BOX - FEBRUARY

2012-02-09T20:01:00.000Z

I think this has to be my favourite beauty box I have received to date. I'm excited about every single product, except the perfume sample, but as that was an added freebie, I can't possibly complain.

Elemis, Decleor, Nuxe, Phillip Kingsley, Lenny Deighton.. it's like a girl's dream box. I've tried all of these brands (except Phillip Kingsley) before and loved them so can't wait to try these variations. I did actually receive the Nuxe face/body/hair oil in a GlossyBox but I'm currently plastering that all over my face every morning and evening to combat dry skin so very glad I've got a new bottle. The Elasticizer may come from a brand I've not tried previously but it is a product with such a cult following that I'm almost giddy about covering my hair from root to tip in the stuff.

Extreme excitement over. Why? This is the last feelunique.com Beauty Box. I received an email today saying they were going to be closing Beauty Box indefinitely. Devastated does not even begin to describe how I feel!

REVIEW: JOHN FRIEDA LUXURIOUS VOLUME THICKENING HAIR SPRAY

2012-02-06T09:00:00.000Z

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Thickening Hairspray*, £5.79 (but 3 for 2 in Boots right now).

I love this product. L-O-V-E. I had been using TRESemme Naturals Non-Aerosol Hairspray which was just the only one on my dressing table and was distinctively average. In truth, I love an aerosol hairspray, as do most girls I imagine.

When I do use hairspray, it's sole purpose is to create some volume and keep it there. This just does the job perfectly. Big hair, all night.

*PR sample

SNOW DAY: OOTD BLACK, CREAM & TRYING TO KEEP WARM

2012-02-04T15:23:00.000Z

Wearing: ASOS Aggie Boots, £45 | Topshop Black Leigh Jeans, £15 (so cheap!) | White H&M Tank Top, £3.99 | Topshop Cream Sloppy Oversized Half Sleeve Top, £16 | Topshop Black Wool Jacket, £old | Mulberry Evelina Hobo, £gift | Norko Ear Warmer & Gloves, £gift | Snow Joy, £priceless.

We have snow! And I'm so happy about it. I think the older you get the more anti-snow you get as it really does hinder progress when it comes to getting to work etc. However, I'm still a massive kid at heart and was over the moon when it started snowing this morning. Needless to say I've been out in it and am now freezing cold and back in my cosy flat with a cup of tea. Happy Saturday you lovely, lovely people.

REVIEW: TRESEMME SPLIT ENDS RANGE

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000Z

I've said it before and I'll say it again - I really loathe spending £5+ on drugstore shampoo & conditioner. If I'm going to spend £7 on a shampoo, I'd rather spend a little bit more and get Kerastase or Aveda. Do you know what I mean? I've mentioned that I like TRESemme before and I still do because it's one of the only reasonably priced drugstore haircare ranges.

Designed to minimise the appearance of split ends, the new TREsemme Split Ends range* is just as good value and enjoyable to use as all of the other TRESemme ranges I've used. The conditioning mask is really lovely and the pot is so huge it's going to take me a long time to get through. I find I can't decide whether to use the serum or the leave-in treatment so tend to opt for one or the other. That said, I do miss using my Moroccan Oil (I stopped using it whilst trialling this range) but just because it feels more luxurious.

I wouldn't say that my hair no longer has split ends, but it feels nicely conditioned whether I use the mask or not. In my books, this makes this a good range. My poor dry hair needs all the moisture it can get!

*PR sample

COMPETITION: WIN MARC BY MARC JACOBS SUNGLASSES

2012-02-01T18:26:00.000Z

The very lovely people at Sunglasses Shop asked if I wanted to reward my lovely readers with a giveaway. Of course I said yes when they said I could gift one of you with a pair of these gorgeous Marc by Marc Jacobs sunglasses. I really want them for myself but I guess one of you can have them.

What do you have to do?
1. Follow my blog on Google Friend Connect or Bloglovin' - I will check!
2. 'Like' Sunglasses Shop on Facebook - click here.
3. Follow Sunglasses Shop on Twitter - click here.
4. Comment on this post, you can say anything you like but leave your contact email address.
5. Last but not least, for an extra entry, tweet the following:
I just entered @misslucyloves Marc by Marc Jacobs giveaway: http://tinyurl.com/7le6mu8

Good luck!

Competition will close on Saturday 18th February at 10pm. Open to UK readers only. Winner will be chosen at random by random.org.

PROJECT HOME: DIY CHALKBOARD CALENDAR

2012-01-31T10:44:00.000Z

Yes, I know... yet another photo of my desk. However! I did need to show you the DIY chalkboard calendar that Sam & I (mostly Sam, I directed) created one evening recently. I'd spotted my inspiration on Pinterest which then led me to this post on how to recreate it in your own home.

I'd been looking for a calendar for ages which Sam & I could both use. I'm rubbish at telling Sam I have plans so now I just write it on the chalk calendar and we both know where the other is. So far it's been super useful and I really love it, even if it is a little out there.

Only problem is that it's so hard to write neatly in chalk. How did teachers ever manage it?!

REVIEW: LIERAC COHÉRENCE INFRARED LIFTING CREAM

2012-01-29T10:00:00.000Z

Lierac Cohérence Infrared Lifting Cream, £56.55 for 50ml.

I received this moisturiser in my January feelunique.com Beauty Box and was over the moon. I was just coming to the end of my lovely (and quite pricey) Cleo Q Probiotic Regenerate EGF Nourishing Creme* and couldn't afford to repurchase it, despite it being a wonderful day cream. I'd begun browsing online to see if I could find a good day cream for dry skin, preferably with anti-ageing properties, when this beauty showed up on my doorstep.

Again, this is a pricey moisturiser (even more so) and one which I wouldn't repurchase due to that price tag but my goodness how lovely it is. I could never review an anti-ageing product on that basis alone as my skin is still quite young and though starting to show some signs, it is not in serious need of an anti-ageing remedy. I do try and use anti-ageing product in the hope that in the future I will be glad for it.

Lierac is a luxury brand and this product feels like it. Smells gorgeous, great for dry skin and with sleek packaging too. I'm a fan.

*PR sample

CND SHELLAC SPRING 2012 COLLECTION

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000Z

L-R: Silver VIP Status, Dark Lava, Silver Chrome, Rubble, Cityscape, Gold VIP Status.

I am squealing with excitement at these pictures! Sarah made me aware quite a while ago of the spring 2012 Shellac collection due for release in March but I finally got round to requesting some images and now I'm even more excited. Usually more inclined to go for a solid colour rather than a glitter or shimmer, I'm surprised by how much I love the more outlandish shades here. Of course Rubble and Cityscape tick my 'it's murky and non-descript, I love it' box. Want them all.

THE QUEST FOR THE PERFECT BLOW DRY

2012-01-25T10:31:00.000Z

Some girls like their hair best poker straight, some like theirs curled. My favourite is when my hair has just been blow dried at the hairdressers. Hair is sleek without being flat and has that impossible 'bounce' which I just cannot achieve at home. Having watched the below John Frieda video, I'm now on a bit of a mission. Her hair looks so gorgeous at the end!

I will let you know how I get on with this one! I have to start somewhere. Do you have any tips for the perfect blow dry? Or should I just accept defeat and go for a professional blow dry when in need?

REVIEW: CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000Z

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser*, £9.18.

Yet another skincare post from me, I think I'm going through a bit of a phase!

I've read an awful lot about this cleanser so was very much looking forward to giving it a whirl. Supposedly perfect for sensitive skin as it is free of fragrance, it is very gentle. I find using a fragrance-free cleanser a bit weird and I'm not sure why. Cetaphil is also supposed to be good for dry skin, which I suffer from. It's very pleasant and skin is left soft and gently moisturised afterwards. I will definitely continue to use this until I finish the bottle but I think I'd rather spend £10 on a cleanser which feels a little bit more luxurious.

*I won this in Joanne's giveaway!

REVIEW: ENRAPTURE JUMBO AMPLIFY WAVER

2012-01-22T09:30:00.000Z

Enrapture Jumbo Amplify Waver*, £74.95.

One of my work colleagues (hi Claire!) very nearly bought some of these just before Christmas as she is very much a fan of beachy hair, as am I. She ended up buying a cheaper alternative, regretting it and was then a little bit mad at me when I received some to review. However, I've assured her that she can most definitely borrow my Enrapture Jumbo Amplify Wavers. She's a little less mad at me now.

I've tried these out on first and second day hair. I absolutely loved how quickly they did all of my hair. I've got a lot of fine hair yet it took just 5 minutes to create gorgeous beachy waves. They're very simple to use - turn them on and choose a temperature, then clamp your hair for 5-10 seconds (depending on heat setting) for the desired look. I was so impressed by how easy these were to use and loved the look they achieved so much. I think I will probably reserve these for use on second day hair only as on my first day hair, the look was very big.

Before I received these I was using the Babyliss Waving Wand to create beachy waves and though I liked it a lot, the Enrapture Waver is so much easier and quicker to use. A lot less hassle so I'm afraid my Babyliss Wand may appear on eBay in the near future.

I'd say if you like to create that beachy, wavy hair look quite regularly then these are definitely worth the money. They also have a three year guarantee and if you're not satisfied, you can get your money back! Win-win.

P.S. Kudos to all you bloggers who regularly take photos of your face. That was hard work.

*PR sample

EVENT: DERMALOGICA AT HARVEY NICHOLS

2012-01-21T09:30:00.000Z

I do love Harvey Nichols' events, it has to be said. This one was to sample the latest from Dermalogica. I've used a few of their products before, namely through beauty sample boxes and at spas but have never bought any of the skincare before. I do know it's extremely popular though amongst skincare lovers and many claim that during their teens it was a lifesaver.

New to Harvey Nichols Leeds at the back end of last year, Dermalogica are right at the back of the beauty hall. This means they've got space for not only a counter but also a treatment pod (as I call it). I had the 20 minute microZone Treatment which is designed to target a specific skin problem you're suffering from in one short session which is great if you're lacking in time.

My main concern was the enormous hormone blemish which had appeared on my chin. The Clarisonic seems to have gotten rid of all blemishes except these ones it turns out. Those hormones can't be argued with! I've also got quite dry skin so my consultant Amy had a good look at my skin with a light and magnifying glass and noted that my forehead and around my nose were particularly dehydrated. Amy used so many products I couldn't possibly name them all but they were all gorgeous - scent and how they felt on the skin. She also used a steamer on my face for quite some time (want one in my bathroom) and some terrifying electrical devices to treat the big blemish. I was terrified about that bit but it didn't hurt, just a slight tingling.

The thing I loved about the whole experience is that it was a luxurious facial, it was a scientific approach to the problems I was suffering from at the time. Dermalogica is known for being very clinical but I felt that Amy really knew what she was talking about, a self-confessed "geek" (her words, not mine). I also learnt that I absolutely under no circumstances should touch blemishes and that I should include my ears in my daily routine. They're neglected!

The microZone treatment costs £20 for 20 minutes but is free if you're spending over £60 on products. The Face Mapping Skin Analysis which I also had is free of charge.

...and thank you for the goodies, Dermalogica & Harvey Nichols!

REVIEW: MONTAGNE JEUNESSE VIRGIN OLIVE ULTRA DEEP CLEANSING MASK

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000Z

Montagne Jeunesse Virgin Olive Ultra Deep Cleansing Mask*, 99p.

I've said it before, but I do love a good face mask. I think it's mostly psychological - I feel like I've treated my skin and therefore it feels better. My skin is struggling with the cold weather and is super dry at the moment so I whacked on this Virgin Olive Ultra Deep Cleansing Mask. Best thing? It's bright green. Second best thing? It's one of those masks that dries solid. I hate it when masks are clear or just stay wet on the skin. I want something that feels dramatic and this certainly does! Love it. I'll definitely be stocking up on a bunch of these in Boots.

REVIEW: CLARISONIC MIA

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000Z

My review is probably going to be a reiteration of everything said in most reviews of the Clarisonic Mia:

1. Yes, it's worth the money!
2. You will break out badly for the first week of use

As you know, I received mine for Christmas which is now nearly a month ago. I started using it straight away and have used it every single morning and every single evening since then (even when I've had a few glasses of wine!). I'm not normally so dedicated but that in itself is testament to how easy it is to use and how rewarding the commitment to the Clarisonic can be.

The Mia is completely waterproof so you can use in the bath & shower and charges via a magnetic power cable. So far I've had to charge mine twice which is probably a little more than the 20 days which the packaging suggests but it's no bother so really not a problem. The head (I've got the normal one but you can also get one for sensitive skin) needs replacing once every three months but at £21 that's just fine.

One misconception which I had was that the head rotated to give a thorough cleanse. It doesn't rotate but the word 'sonic' best describes the action - it's like a very intense vibration. All dry skin is quickly removed and what is left behind is super soft, baby bottom skin.

For the first week of use I had quite a bad break out, which I had expected from having read other reviews but since that point my skin has been so much better. Yes, I do still get blemishes but they're either teeny tiny and short-lived or they're those big under-the-skin types which now, just aren't half as bad as they used to be. They never really become anything. For this, I'm eternally grateful and this is why I think the Clarisonic Mia is worth the hefty £120 price tag. I've been recommending this left, right and centre to friends. I know that there are some cheaper alternatives on the market such as the Sigma Cleansing & Polishing Tool and the Sirius Skinsonic, but I haven't tried these so couldn't compare for you.

OOTD: RIDING BOOTS, LEGGINGS, MULBERRY & JACKET

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000Z

Most of the items making up this outfit are really quite old - sorry about that! However, I wanted to show you the gorgeous new top/dress from Firetrap. Not usually a brand which I would look for but browsing their site there's quite a few things which take my fancy.

I adore the cut of this top (it is technically a top but the medium is very much a dress on me) and the tiny chain detail near the neckline. Plus it's grey so it goes with everything in my wardrobe whilst the feather print adds a little extra something something.

And I'm not changing handbag any time soon so get used to seeing a lot of this one.

FEELUNIQUE.COM BEAUTY BOX - JANUARY

2012-01-15T10:00:00.000Z

It was a little bit late (naughty Royal Mail) but here is my January feelunique.com Beauty Box! I have to say, there may be no nail polishes or make-up but I think I prefer it that way. Nail polishes are a bit wasted on me now I'm Shellac obsessed and make-up is so personal that I don't think they could ever please everyone. Instead, we've got skincare, haircare and body products - perfect.

So far I've used the Caudalie body lotion (very nice, quick drying), the Lierac moisturiser (also very nice and I was in need of a new moisturiser) and the Dead Sea Spa Magik (insanely good) but can't wait to try the Phyto conditioner and the other bits and pieces. Very happy with this box!

FULLCIRCLE SS12

2012-01-14T10:00:00.000Z

Of all the SS12 PR emails received, this is the first one I've taken notice of. Proper fashion isn't my thing. I look at the pictures in Vogue, but I don't read the articles in any depth. I like clothes and I like shopping but I don't know all that there is to know about Isabel Marant. I don't worry too much about what is going to be fashionable for the forthcoming season. My style is classic and neutral so I rarely feel the need to latch on to the latest trend.

All that said, Fullcircle's neo-classic SS12 trend board is totally up my street. The 'Heather' colour may be slightly outside of my comfort zone but the rest of the colours suit just perfectly and classic timeless dressing with a twist may well be how I approach the upcoming season. Stick to what I know, but my twist might be these colours: clay, nude & midnight. I'm also pretty much in love with the trench. Though, being petite I always think I'd look like I was playing dress-up with my mum's clothes in a trench coat. We'll see, until it warms up a little, I don't think I'm going to get myself too concerned.

Do you worry about what's in and out for the upcoming season or just wear whatever you want?

PROJECT HOME: BLOGGING CORNER

2012-01-12T10:30:00.000Z

If you've been reading a while then you'll remember my post on my beautiful vintage desk and chair which I bought for our lounge. I just wanted to do a little update on what has become my favourite corner - my blogging corner.

Sam was very lucky and got an iMac for Christmas. He has kindly allowed me to set up my own account and this is where I now blog from. I've still got my trusty MacBook for when we're fighting over the iMac but I use that for more on-the-go blogging now. I do my emails, check Twitter and write blog posts here now at this little desk, where I'm finding I have to spend more and more time. I hope you have noticed the increase in posts from me? I'm trying very hard!

The lamp is also new. I was desperately after the Alchemy Lamp from Graham & Green but couldn't justify the price tag. Instead this Ikea Barometer lamp will have to suffice. As I don't own a coffee table, my lamp is now atop my lovely coffee table books (This Little Piggy Went To Prada, The Fashion File, Design Sponge At Home, interiors scrapbook, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty).

REVIEW: BAREMINERALS PURIFYING FACIAL CLEANSER

2012-01-10T10:00:00.000Z

As you saw in this post, I was lucky enough to receive a Clarisonic Mia from my boyfriend for Christmas. Now I'm on a quest to find the perfect cleanser to use alongside my Clarisonic. I was using Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel but an gel to oil to milk formula isn't really what I was looking for. I wanted something that would work with the Clarisonic for the ultimate deep clean.

I now use the Clarins to remove make-up (as it's unreal at melting mascara, best I've ever used) and then do a second cleanse with bareMinerals Purifying Facial Cleanser (currently just £10.85 vs. RRP of £15). I couldn't decide what to go for in John Lewis - Liz Earle (supposedly good with a Clarisonic but doesn't really keep my skin clear anymore), Philosophy (great foamer but pricey), and then I walked past the bareMinerals counter. As you may remember, I'm a big fan of the new bareMinerals skincare, however I hadn't yet tried a cleanser. I asked which was best for dry skin and the lady recommended this product, so here I am.

Upon first use I was a little bit disappointed as it didn't foam at all, which is what I really wanted. However, though when using the Clarisonic it feels like a huge disappointment, when you then wash the cleanser off your face you're left with such gorgeous baby bottom soft skin that all dreams of foamy cleansing are washed down the plughole. My skin is happy too, so I'm pleased.

CHIC GREY NAILS: CND SHELLAC ASPHALT SWATCH

2012-01-08T10:00:00.000Z

The ever wonderful Sarah ordered this CND Shellac colour for me as she is a trained nail technician - best way to avoid fake CND products online is to order through someone you trust. I wanted Asphalt as thought it'd be similar to the colour I had for my first Shellac manicure - Artistic Colour Gloss' All The Rage.

It definitely isn't similar, it's a much more blue toned, dark grey than the ACG shade but I love it still. Any grey is going to go down well with me! I also trimmed my nails right back, I think Shellac looks much more chic and sophisticated on shorter nails and mine were getting very long.

REVIEW: LABEL.M THERAPY AGE DEFYING RECOVERY MASK

2012-01-06T10:00:00.000Z

I mentioned in this post how much my hair was struggling to cope with the colder weather. As with my skin, it's been very dry and coarse rather than the soft and bouncy which I try to aim for.

To try and counteract all the winter nasties, I have been using Label.M Therapy Age-Defying Recovery Mask* (£17.50) with every wash. I know it's probably a little naughty to use it every time but that's how much I like it. And why do I like it? Probably not because I find it anti-ageing but because it smells amazing and keeps my locks nourished, which is all I really want from a hair mask.

For this very reason, I will definitely be purchasing this when I run out and will also be investigating the rest of the brand new range from Label.M. I'm particularly interested in the Protein Cream. There are lots of hair masks on the market - which is your favourite and why?

*PR sample

LA REDOUTE LUST

2012-01-04T10:00:00.000Z

Lusting: Checked Jacket, was £65 now £26 | Vanessa Bruno Crepe Trousers, £69 | Long Sleeved Cashmere Slouch Cardigan, £115 | Slim-Fit Leather Trousers, £145.

I surprise myself. To me, La Redoute was a 90s phenomenon when catalogue ordering was at it's peak. I don't think my mum and I ever ordered from La Redoute but we definitely ordered from the Next catalogue in the run up to a holiday. I was speaking to a friend recently about writing this post. She couldn't believe that I had the attitude to La Redoute that it was 'just another mail order company' because it was French, and therefore 100% more fashion-forward than any British equivalent. I have to say, she was kind of right.

Not only do they stock Zara Home (who knew?!) but a lot of Vanessa Bruno, Levis, Polo Ralph Lauren & Princesse Tam-Tam. There is an epic list of brands stocked by the company, but even their own brand stuff is surprising. The cardigans from La Redoute are gorgeous, lots of cashmere and I really like a lot of the trousers and coats. The images above show just a snippet of the collection and though prices are quite high, they have serious sales on with big reductions.

*Sponsored post

MULBERRY EVELINA HOBO

2012-01-02T10:00:00.000Z

And here she is! My new gorgeous, beautiful Mulberry Evelina Hobo. She's slouchy, cavernous and casual whilst being classic (black and rose gold, can't go wrong) and low key. Though I'd never turn down a classic Mulberry bag such as the Bayswater (and indeed I own the Ledbury), I do really love having something which isn't quite so obviously Mulberry. The little rose gold tree on the front is the only real clue to it's maker and I like that.

The big plate on the handle makes it less girly, more modern. It looks uncomfortable but it's padded underneath. You can carry the Evelina Hobo in the crook of your arm, on your shoulder or - for those sale-shopping-need-all-hands-free moments - across the body. I can't say I ever really wear a bag across my body but it's nice to have options.

You can purchase the Evelina Hobo and the other S/S '12 lines on the Mulberry website.

OOTD: LEATHER JACKET, SKINNIES, MULBERRY & CONVERSE

2011-12-31T09:30:00.000Z

Wearing: White All Star Converse, £gift | Topshop Leigh Jeans, £40 | Black H&M Basic Vest & Tee | Calla Lily Leather Jacket via TK Maxx, £40 | Norko Scarf, £gift | Mulberry Evelina Hobo, £gift.

This is my go to outfit at the moment and is the ultimate in comfort. I'd been wanting a pair of Converse for so long and Sam cleverly bought me some for my birthday. I'm over the moon with them though I do feel a little bit 'yummy mummy' in them, do you know what I mean? My Leigh jeans are still absolute perfection. If I'm not wearing leggings then I'm wearing these and I definitely need a few more pairs. I tried on the black though and they just didn't fit so well but will keep trying them on until they do!

The bag. Oh, the bag! I'm trying desperately hard to get some good photos of it but this is my new baby. It's absolutely enormous so I can never find anything but it is so soft, slouchy, classic, understated and practical. In love. I 100% promise a full post on this shortly.

This is my final post for 2011 so I will see you on the other side. Hope you all have a lovely NYE. What are your new year resolutions? I can't decide so please let me know what yours are for some inspiration!

GIFTS FROM SANTA

2011-12-29T12:15:00.001Z

I promised when I wrote my birthday pressie post that I'd do one with my Christmas pressies too. We actually do Secret Santa in our household as there's quite a few of us and we're more about the food and family time then the presents bit. That said, I did very well. I'm always spoilt rotten by Sam & his family which explains some of the more indulgent gifts below!

Urban Outfitters Christmas jumper | Genie head massager | Hot water bottle | Clarisonic Mia in White | Spa voucher (evening in spa, light tea & massage or facial!) | Harry Potter Blu-Rays 1-8 | Charbonnel & Walker Champagne Truffles | Mulberry pouch | Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty | Urban Outfitters Dear Prudence tea cup | Urban Outfitters LOVE Frame | Mulberry Evelina Hobo which I'm struggling to take a photo of, will do a full post on it when I have my trusty photographer boyfriend back.

I could write a comment about each present but I'm basically just very grateful and can't wait to use everything/put it in it's rightful place in my flat. The Christmas jumper, Clarisonic and the tea cup have already been well used. The truffles have been opened and I'm going to book in for my spa package right now. I can't wait for even more indulgence!

MY INSTAGRAM LIFE - DECEMBER

2011-12-28T19:32:00.000Z

CHRISTMAS BABY - BIRTHDAY GIFTS

2011-12-26T11:28:00.000Z

On Wednesday I turned the grand old age of 24. I had a very chilled day (poorly, ugh) but will share some photos of my time up here in Northumberland shortly. This post is just one for presents. I wouldn't naturally share all my presents but I know that some of you are like me and are incredibly nosey. In return, I expect links to all of your Christmas pressie posts, okay? Needless to say I feel spoilt rotten.

Green Tea Treasures Bracelets | Design Sponge at Home | White Converse | Kimono Girl Bento Box | Mulberry Bayswater Macbook Sleeve | Dualit Two Slot Toaster | Bombay Duck Lingerie Bag.

I also got a light fitting for my bathroom which I can't even contemplate how I would photograph - it's crazy! I'll show you once we're back in Leeds and Sam has installed it.

Hope you all had a truly wonderful day yesterday and another good one today!

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS JUMPER

2011-12-25T16:50:00.000Z

Wearing: Urban Outfitters Christmas Jumper, £gift | Topshop Jeggings, £20 | Hunter Wellies, £65.

Hope you're all having a wonderful Christmas day. Lots of festive kisses.

CHRISTMAS SEQUINS

2011-12-24T10:00:00.000Z

AX Paris Beaded Front Top*, was £28 now £8.99.

I'm sure by now you've worked out that I love the colour black. We had a work social event recently and one of the directors said I always looked very put together and they imagined my clothes were all organised by colour and I picked out my outfits the night before. I was surprised! I'm the absolute opposite. My clothes are everywhere and I pointed out that the only reason I look put together is because all of my clothes are black or grey - so they all go with each other. I know it's dull and I need to break out of it, but truth be known, I have no idea what colours I would suit and I love the look of blacks and greys.

Anyway, I digress. I just wanted to show you this gorgeous little top from AX Paris. Super cheap but the quality is great. I do pick the items I own from this brand very carefully as I think some of them look a little cheap, but I do keep finding some real gems. This top is cropped but the sequin detail makes it a little bit special. Perfect for the Christmas season! Can't wait to pair this with some leggings (I need some leather ones) and little booties plus a cosy coat to keep the chill out.

*PR sample

REVIEW: BOBBI BROWN LONG-WEAR GEL EYELINER

2011-12-22T10:00:00.000Z

For the past year I've been religiously using - nearly every day - Clinique's Brush-On Cream Liner, but my pot had finally run dry and I was ready for something new. I'm a sucker for nice packaging so Bobbi Brown is a brand which has always appealed to me. My mum is a big fan so I've tried quite a bit of her Bobbi Brown collection through the years and always really enjoyed it.

There are also three gel eyeliners which get name-dropped regularly online: MAC's Fluidline, Clinique's Brush-On Cream Liner (thanks to the Pixiwoo sisters) and this Bobbi Brown one. I know the Fluidline dries out in the pot quickly which is why I didn't go for that one, which is the cheaper option.

So far I'm finding it nice. No nicer than the Clinique, I think I'd give them the same rating as they're pretty similar. I apply with a MAC 210 which is super tiny and perfect for being precise. I'm still no pro though when it comes to gel eyeliner application and am fairly sure I never will be but this goes on nice and smooth and stays put throughout the day which is all I can really ask of it.

Have you ever tried any of the famous three eyeliners? Or is there another which you really rate?

BLOGGER'S CHRISTMAS PARTY OUTFITS

2011-12-21T19:00:00.000Z

High End: Vince Ring Sequin Dress, £423 | Ash Emma Buckle Boot, £225 | Jil Sander Circle Leather Clutch, £240.

High Street: Zara Metallic Dress, £119 | Topshop Paragon Zip Front High Sandals, £90 | Zara Large Leather Clutch, £69.99.

The ever wonderful Sarah invited a bunch of us blogger types to a make-believe Christmas party. December 21st, 7pm on the dot. All we had to do was to choose two outfits - one high end, one high street - that we would wear should the party materialise into a reality. The above are my two choices. As you can see, metallics and blacks feature heavily in my choices. If you can't wear a gold dress at Christmas time, then when can you wear one?

Why don't you go and check out the outfits of the other invitees? Sarah S, Becky, Tass, Michelle, Sarah F, Gem, Lucy, Hannah, Sophie, Jo, Hannah & Amy.

DOVE'S 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000Z

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...! Don't worry, I won't give you my rendition of the whole song. Though it is one my favourites. Dove have launched a wonderfully festive campaign for Christmas. I think my favourite is the use of the word 'zhuzhing' - I've always wondered how I'd spell that as it's a word I use often. It's a cute campaign and a lovely awareness piece of their winter hair care range.

My hair is feeling really dry at the minute (don't even get me started on my skin) so I'm loving the look of the Nourishing Oil Shampoo and Conditioner and an overnight creme. I need anything and everything I can get my hands on what with the cold weather and the heating combining to give me super dry locks.

Unfortunately we're at this time of year when you actually want your hair to look half decent - work parties, family gatherings, Christmas carols.. there is always a camera and an overzealous family member poised to snap you when you're least expecting it. That's why I try and put in a little extra effort in order to keep skin and hair looking healthy and an emergency make-up kit in my handbag, just in case. It's almost enough to make you long for summer again!

Are you working extra hard to combat the elements? I sometimes feel like I'm the only one who suffers! Share your woes and make me feel a little better about it.

*Sponsored post

WINTERY WALKS

2011-12-18T10:00:00.000Z

Wearing: Barbour | Topshop Denim Leggings, £20 | Dubarry Galway Boots, £299 | Norko Headband & Gloves, £gift.

Today is our last weekend in Leeds so we're making the most of it before Sam travels back up north tomorrow. Having watched this video earlier in the week - I've become a little bit obsessed with getting in 30 minutes of walking every day. Some days I don't manage it, but I'm trying very hard. So yesterday we popped to Golden Acre Park for a very brisk, chilly walk.

I finished off the afternoon by making Nigella's Roast Poussin & Sweet Potatoes and then her Glitzy Chocolate Puddings which tipped me over into a food coma for the rest of the evening in front of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Heaven!

MY CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

2011-12-17T13:25:00.000Z

I am feeling very festive at the moment and wanted to share some photos of my Christmas decorations. This is the first year we've had anything more than just fairy lights and candles so it's been very exciting. We bought a Christmas tree in November (oops!) from B&Q for £20 and it's the perfect size for our flat. It took me about a fortnight to decide on the decorations though as I'm super picky.

Most of the baubles are from John Lewis. I ordered a box of 20 for £5 which I thought was a bargain, though they are just plastic. I suspect that every year we buy a few more nicer ones, we'll lose a couple of the cheapy ones. The glass hearts and tear drops are also John Lewis but were about £4 each. The reindeer and the mistletoe are both from Rutherfords of Morpeth (sent by my mother who couldn't bear the thought of my naked tree!) but are from the brand East of India. Took me even longer to find a suitable tree topper as I hate the ones with the cylindrical spring to attach to the top of the tree. Eventually purchased this little star from TK Maxx. You can also kind of see in the first photo my button garland, also from East of India.

And last but not least, my mistletoe wreath (from eBay, of all places). I know it's really starting to wilt but I quite like the colours it is changing to - from green to golden. That or I'm in denial that it's just dying but don't want to take it down just yet.

Link me to photos of your Christmas decorations - I love seeing how people do theirs! And last but not least, Merry Christmas.

FEELUNIQUE.COM BEAUTY BOX - DECEMBER

2011-12-15T09:30:00.000Z

If you're a regular reader of Miss Lucy Loves... you will remember that Miss Lucy did not love the most recent GlossyBox. Don't get me wrong, there have been a lot of GlossyBoxes which I've thoroughly enjoyed but I think it had just been a while since I'd trule been wowed by the contents of a box. I guess I'm just fickle and fancied mixing it up a bit. I cancelled my subscription to GlossyBox and instead signed up to the feelunique.com Beauty Box.

I'm a huge feelunique.com fan and buy the vast majority of my beauty goodies on there so it felt right to be going with their box. I'd also seen several blog posts and YouTube videos about the contents and felt that it was the right kind of thing for me. So here it is - the December feelunique.com Beauty Box. We have products from Bed Head, Annick Goutal (gorgeous little perfume bottle), Clarisonic, Nails Inc and Figs & Rouge. I like the perfume, though it is an unusual scent and I'm looking forward to trying the Bed Head and Clarisonic products.

Which beauty box, if any, are you signed up to?

P.S. It's officially six days until I am 24. Scary!

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT BICESTER VILLAGE

2011-12-14T09:30:00.000Z

If you have ever been to Bicester Village (and I expect that a lot of you have), I'm officially jealous. How is it that I'm a die hard Mulberry fan and yet have never made it to UK's number one discounted designer shopping village? Some sort of crime, I'm sure of it.

I've now done all of my Christmas shopping (excepting work Secret Santa, got a tricky one) but if you haven't and you're in the vicinity then I would definitely urge you to visit. You can do so on my behalf and I may, or may not, supply you with a shopping list of things I would like. Shops I want to check out are: Mulberry for beautiful bags, Anya Hindmarch for cutesy accessories, Aubin & Wills for loungewear and Le Creuset for kitchenware.

I envisage myself unable to walk any further for all the carrier bags of gorgeous things weighing me down! I really do wish we lived just a little bit closer. Though I suspect my bank balance is happy about the distance.

Bicester Village are running a competition on their website and on their Facebook page. You 'find' a bronze/silver/gold reindeer and can win £100 gift cards, gifts from some of the high end stores or a trip to Italy for a shopping weekend at Fidenza Village. Browse through the website, and as soon as you see a reindeer pop up, click on it to stand a chance to win amazing prizes. Not too shabby at all so I would definitely recommend you take a look: Bicester Village Festive Secrets.

I wonder what Festive Secrets for your friends and family (who am I kidding? I would definitely be buying for me, me, me) you can find at Bicester. Have you been before? Are you going this Christmas?

*Sponsored post

ILLASMASQUA GOODIES

2011-12-13T10:00:00.000Z

I mentioned in this post that I received a really amazing goody bag at the Illamasqua Leeds launch and above are the contents. I think you'll agree we were spoilt rotten. So far I've used the bronzing duo which is just beautiful, amazing for contouring and also the lipgloss in Femme which has beautiful colour pay off without being scarily red. It's really gorgeous - wore it for a cinema date with the boy to see Puss in Boots!

I've got a cream blusher, lipgloss and lipstick already from the brand and I really do love them all. Fantastic quality, super sleek packaging and MUAs who are super approachable - wonderful brand and I think they've done so well in very little time.

Have you ever tried anything from Illamasqua?

CHRISTMAS NAILS - CND SHELLAC MASQUERADE SWATCH

2011-12-11T15:34:00.001Z

I went home to Northumberland recently and my mum let me Shellac her nails with the colour Rose Bud. However, it's probably a little too Barbie for her usual taste so I promised I'd get a more mum-friendly shade before I went back for Christmas. And here it is! This shade is Masquerade and it's a gorgeous dark red, slightly cherry toned shimmery polish. I wouldn't normally go for a shimmer as I like my nails a solid colour but it's quite festive so I love it. Please excuse the fact I hadn't cleaned up my fingers before taking this photo.

ILLAMASQUA ARRIVES IN VICTORIA QUARTER, LEEDS

2011-12-10T09:30:00.000Z

Sparkly floors, sparkly walls, Alex Box & Julian Kynaston, champagne, noteworthy products: Freak, Precision Ink, Skin Base, insane goody bag, catch ups with lovely bloggers and lovely MUAs, beautiful location. Well done Illamasqua and welcome to Leeds. I think you're going to love it here.

The store officially opens today.

BEAUTY BUYS

2011-12-09T19:05:00.000Z

Korres Vanilla & Cinnamon Shower Gel, £7.50 | Duo Lash Adhesive, £10 | CND Shellac in Masquerade.

You know I loved my Korres Guava shower gel, well I was in Waitrose and spotted this one - Vanilla & Cinnamon. What could be more perfect for the festive season!? I'm very into Christmas so I popped this in my trolley. It smells gorgeous.

In prep for Saturday's Christmas party, I picked up some Duo lash adhesive from MAC thinking that this would solve all my fake eyelash woes. I'm awful at applying lashes and until now, blamed it on the adhesive. I reckon I've still got quite a bit of practising to do as I ended up ripping them off in frustration.

And finally, I acquired a third Shellac shade to add to my collection - Masquerade. I went home the weekend before last to see my parents and did my mum's nails. She didn't think Shellac would last on her but it has and she requested some more 'normal' colours (not Barbie pink or black!) so got this to use on her when I pop home for Christmas.

TOPSHOP SKIATHOS HEELS

2011-12-07T18:59:00.000Z

I promised I'd share them with you in full and here these beauties are. Topshop Skiathos heels which I bought from eBay for approximately £10, bit of a bargain. I love the gold flash of platform and it makes them relatively comfy from a height perspective. They absolutely killed my little toes however, think they're going to take some serious breaking in. Despite this, I think I'm going to get some serious wear out of them. It's love. You can see on this post how low cut they are at the front.

CHRISTMAS WISHLIST

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000Z

Wishing: 1. ASOS Leather Black Sheepskin Mittens, £26 | 2. Sessun Girton Tweed Blazer, £140 | 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs iPhone Cover, £30 | 4. Topshop Garland Shoes, £65 | 5. Sparkle & Fade Faux Leather Trim Blouse, £45 | 6. NEOM Organics Three Wick Candle, £37.50.

CHRISTMAS PARTY OUTFIT

2011-12-04T16:40:00.000Z

Wearing: Topshop Skiathos Heels via eBay, £10 | Topshop Dress, £38 | Mulberry Bayswater Clutch, £gift (not shown) | Black Pool Shellac Nails, £DIY | Xen-Tan Spray Tan*, £40.

As I mentioned yesterday, last night was my work Christmas party. It was insane. So, so good. As a result I am confined to the sofa today, unable to move. You can't really see the cut out detail at the neckline nor did I take a photo of the back of my dress which was also cut out. I know it's a bit dull but hey, I'm a bit dull. Will do a proper post on the shoes so you can see them in all their glory as their beautiful. Hideously painful but beautiful!

I went for a Xen-Tan spray tan on Thursday at my nearest Saks salon (which is in David Lloyd, for those local) and they did a fab job. I'm still super tanned and loving it. Why can't I naturally be this shade?! Normally if I was getting my legs out I'd have to seriously fake tan and then wear Sally Hansen spray on tan to make me a human colour.

Sorry about the photo, it was a quick snap as I ran out of the door. Not a very glamourous backdrop!

*My tan was courtesy of Xen-Tan - thank you!

NEW BOOTIES: JANE SHILTON UMBRIA BLACK BUCKLE BOOTS

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000Z

Umbria High Heel Platform Ankle Boots*, £125.

I cannot express how much I freaking love these little booties. Expect to see a lot of them. Totally surprised by what this brand has to offer in terms of shoes, I really struggled to choose a pair!

*PR sample

GLOSSYBOX - NOVEMBER

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000Z

As you know, I've really enjoyed being a GlossyBox subscriber, but let's face it, I'm extremely fickle. Prior to receiving November's GlossyBox, I cancelled my subscription and within five minutes had signed up to the feelunique Beauty Box. I think I got one of the less great boxes this month (I really wanted Phillip Kingsley Elasticizer or Illasmasqua Freak) which just solidified my feelings that I needed to try another one of the boxes. I'll let you know what I think of the feelunique one!

HAUL: CLARINS SKINCARE

2011-11-27T12:00:00.000Z

My skin was really bad. And then I ran out of my beloved, holy grail cleanser, Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish. I've said time and time again that I love this product, but I think it just stopped agreeing with my skin. I may be jumping the gun but I've not used it for a week and my skin has completely cleared up in that time.

I asked Twitter for some cleanser recommendations and Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel was described to me as a gel which turns into an oil on the skin. I have dry skin and love a good oil product so this sounded right up my street. feelunique.com had an offer on Clarins, buy two products and get a little gift set free. As the gift set included the legendary Beauty Flash Balm I decided to also pick up the Liquid Bronze Self Tanning (as recommended by Tanya Burr).

Cleanser is heavenly. Gel to oil to milk when mixed with water. The tan is applied with a cotton wool pad after cleansing and is moisturising, not heavily fake tan scented and gives a lovely natural glow. I have no idea what the Beauty Flash Balm really is, but I absolutely love it. Skin looks so, so radiant when I use it under my foundation.

Happy, happy girl!

DIY AT HOME SHELLAC - STEP BY STEP

2011-11-26T19:58:00.000Z

I wouldn't normally go into quite so much depth on a blog post (you know me, I'm brief by nature) but it has been massively requested on Twitter. Lots of you wanted to know the detail of how I did my DIY at home Shellac.

Please do not take this as gospel. I have no idea what I'm doing and am in no way qualified to preach about nail care.

It's taken me a while as my previous dalliance with at home Shellac lasted so long. But now I'm more than ready to re-do it as my regrowth is getting ugly. This is after three weeks of wear:

Colour above is called Rosebud, and like my top coat and base coat, was provided by the lovely Lydia.

Equipment:

My original polishes (base coat, top coat and Rosebud colour) were from Lydia. I've since bought Black Pool from a friend. I wouldn't advise buying on Amazon/eBay as there are a lot of fakes but if you've got a friend in the beauty business they should be able to get some bottles for you.

I bought my lamp from an eBay seller. There weren't any instructions but after a bit of trial and error I sussed it out. This one is 36W, apparently this is important to ensure that it cures the nails properly.

Acetone for removal and isopropanol (alcohol) for removing the sticky inhibition layer left at the very end of the process. These were both very cheap on eBay.

Also from eBay, use lint free (don't know what that means!) pads for removing the sticky inhibition layer, just soak them in the isopropanol.

Process:

1. Brush a thin layer of the base coat on to your nails and then along the edge of your nail to 'seal' it

2. Cure that layer in your UV lamp. CND recommend 10 seconds if using a CND lamp, I'd say I leave it a couple of minutes, just to be sure.

3. The nails won't feel dry after being cured, don't let this deceive you! Paint on your first colour layer thinly and seal the edge again. The first layer will be sheer (this colour is v dark, and I put too much on!)

4. Cure for a while. This does depend on your lamp but I cure the colour for about 4 minutes but that's probably excessive. Repeat for second layer of colour and the top coat.

5. Soak your lint free pad in isopropanol and wipe the sticky inhibition layer from each nail.
6. Ta-da! Done. Just apply some solar oil every day to keep your nails healthy and only do housework wearing rubber gloves.

To remove simply soak ten pieces of cotton wool in acetone and stick them to the end of your fingers using kitchen foil and place underneath a hot water bottle/wheatie. Sarah explains it better than I do!

I wouldn't recommend this to the faint hearted and if you want a professional finish just pay a beautician to do it for you. They're properly trained, experienced and insured to do a good job.

PAMELA MANN SHEER HEART ANKLE SOCKS

2011-11-23T19:49:00.000Z

Wearing: Pamela Mann Sheer Heart Ankle Socks*, €6 | New Look Mary Janes, £25 many moons ago

How freaking cute are these little pop socks? I've been wearing court shoes with naked feet lately and felt I needed a little something between my skin and the elements as it's been so, so chilly in the north of England. Socks are, of course, somewhat of a no-no (particularly Christmas socks, of which I own a lot) with many court shoes but these little pop socks are just perfect for the job and add a little something to an otherwise dull work outfit.

*PR sample

NEW HAIR: SHORT & GROWN UP

2011-11-17T18:32:00.001Z

I have new hair! I know most women are endlessly trying to grow their hair but I was sick of my long, tangly, messy locks which never really looked healthy or tidy. So I had it all chopped off and had some highlights/lowlights whilst I was at it. It took four hours but I'm so pleased with the result. It feels so healthy, voluminous and I think I look more grown up already.

In the above Photobooth (sorry!) photo I'm also wearing my new favourite lip combination which is All for Eve Lipstick in Eve Red (which is quite pinky toned) dabbed over my lips and then Korres Guava Lip Butter to give a milky pinky colour. Very wearable.

INNOCENT'S BIG KNIT

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000Z

How can these little knitted hats not make you happy? Every time I pass them in a shop I want to buy them all as I love the individuality - they're all different!

This year, Innocent are running a campaign called Hat Tag where you buy an Innocent smoothie (complete with little hat), and then take a photo of the hat somewhere funny and upload that photo to Innocent's Facebook page. They will then donate 10p to Age UK for every photo uploaded.

It's a good cause so thought I'd do a little post about whilst also showing you my daft photo...

I promise you no Steves were hurt in the making of this photo. He went into a weird trance and let us dress him up and take lots of photos. It was all very out of character for him! I blame the little knitted hats and their soporific effects.

Apart from anything, I've been enjoying drinking one of these every day at work for my lunch. Nutritious and filling. Yum.

GIVEAWAY: NAILS INC. LITTLE MISS POLISHES

2011-11-16T09:00:00.000Z

I was given these Nails Inc. polishes recently in a goody bag and as I'm currently Shellac-ing, they're only going to sit in my drawer. So, I thought that one of my readers might like to have them instead. On the left we've got Little Miss Splendid which is a gorgeous pale minty green and on the right we've got Little Miss Chatterbox which is a nudey greige colour. Both beautiful and retail at £12 each.

So what do you have to do to enter?

Follow Miss Lucy Loves... on GFC or Bloglovin'
Leave a comment below saying whatever you please - leave your email address so I can contact you should you win
One entry per person
Open to UK residents only
Giveaway will close at midnight GMT on Sunday 27th November 2011
The winner will be chosen using random.org

Good luck!

REVIEW: MONTAGNE JEUNESSE VERY BERRY MASK

2011-11-14T10:00:00.000Z

As a teen I used to buy a lot of these Montage Jeunesse face masks. They're inexpensive (99p!) and easily found in the aisles of Boots. Whenever I felt like treating myself I'd buy one and sit in the bath with it on my face for too long, feeling very grown up and sophisticated.

I must admit, it's been a while since I've used one but the novelty hasn't really worn off. This one* (Very Berry, which is new) claims to be moisturising and cleansing, both of which I require as I've got dry skin which is behaving a little badly at the minute.

I can't say that this is a life changing/holy grail product by any means, but I do love the relaxing, pampering feeling of using a mask like this one and I loved the purple colour. Beats that mucky clay stuff in terms of making you feel girly!

*PR sample

EVENT: NAILS INC. AT HARVEY NICHOLS

2011-11-12T08:00:00.000Z

How better to spend a chilly evening in November than quaffing cocktails, chatting to lovely bloggers and having your nails done in Harvey Nichols? That's how I spent my Thursday evening anyway and I can tell you now, it definitely beat my average weekday night. Nails, champagne, sushi, insane sweet treats, great chat.

Jen went for Gossip Girl (Blair) nails, Elly went for magnetic effect nails with a glitter feature finger and I stuck with my pink Shellac but added a feature Swarovski bling nail. The technician soaked off the Shellac on my ring fingers using acetone and then used resin to stick each individual Swarovski crystal on to my nail. Very Barbie, I love it. Totally unprofessional, I love it.

DIY: AT HOME CND SHELLAC MANICURE

2011-11-11T18:07:00.001Z

Many of you may think I've jumped the gun slightly on this one. However. My first Shellac stayed put for four weeks. Yes there was some slight chipping and yes my regrowth was horrendous, but with a few touch-ups (thank you Sephora by OPI Metro Chic) it looked decent enough from a distance. I'd booked into a new salon to get them re-done and realised that it'd be much cheaper in the long run if I just invested now in the equipment and learned to do it myself.

And here are the fruits of my first attempt...

A huge thank you to Lydia who sold me her base coat, top coat and this shade (Rose Bud, FYI) and to Sarah who has provided constant Shellac advice to me for the last few weeks. Now I'm going to buy a shade a month until I have a decent enough collection. Next on the list? Asphalt or Blackpool.

P.S. I will address the Barbie bling ring finger in a post tomorrow!

LEEDS FASHION CHALLENGE: THE RESULT

2011-11-08T21:50:00.001Z

So, you read a couple weeks back about the Leeds Fashion Challenge. Two teams, £100 each, both had to shop an entire outfit in a day but in different locations - one high street, one markets. I was on Team High Street with Jen and it was quite a challenge, it was exhausting. Never have I ever shopped for a whole outfit in one day. We kept the outfits top secret (even from one another) for the big reveal this weekend past.

I'm quite proud to say that it wasn't blatantly obvious to most which outfit was high street and which was market. That was the main aim of the game, to show that the market has as much to offer as the high street and though some clever bloggers and tweeters had an inkling, I was so pleased that there was that little doubt in their mind as to which was which. I think the mustard shorts from Primark may have given the game away a little.

Chocolate covered apples, mulled wine, winter soup and sandwiches too? I was a happy bunny. Huge thanks to Elly, Lauren, Jen, Leanne and Out of the Woods for making everything happen. I literally just turned up.

P.S. There may also be some video footage but it's mostly just embarrassing. All I do is agree with Jen! Her word is golden.

REVIEW: ANDREW COLLINGE MOISTURISE & PROTECT SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

2011-11-07T19:07:00.002Z

It's been a while since I've blogged about shampoo, the fascinating subject that it is. Mostly this is because I always use TRESemmé Naturals Shampoo/Conditioner as it's good value and does a decent job. It's also pretty much always on offer somewhere. I really dislike paying extortionate amounts for a drugstore product and if I'm going to pay £5/£6 I think why not go all the way and buy my beloved Aveda Blue Malva.

This time when I ran out of my TRESemmé, I couldn't find it on offer anywhere and looked for the next best thing. Andrew Collinge Moisturise & Protect range comes in a fairly hefty size (also important, I have long hair) but retails at £5.09 a bottle. Outrageous. Fortunately it was buy one get one free in Superdrug (now two for £5.99) so I picked some up.

I have to say for a 'professional' product, it's distinctly drugstore in nature. It's pleasant, cleans my hair etc. but is not revolutionary. I'm ever searching for that range which transforms my frizzy barnet into Rapunzel locks. I'll keep searching...

P.S. Whilst I'm talking about haircare - I'm not 'getting' the hype about Joico K-Pak Intense Hydrator. It's supposed to be amazing but I'm not sure. Should I do a post on it?

H&M AUTUMN/FALL HAUL

2011-11-06T13:43:00.000Z

I'm loving H&M at the minute. When I'm trying to be sensible with my money, H&M offers cheap and cheerful items to update my wardrobe, so it is quickly becoming my new favourite. I took this photo and thought it looked a little bare - that's because I forgot to include my new scarf so I'll have to show you that in a separate post. Oops!

H&M Black Waistcoat, £19.99 | H&M Belt, £7.99 | H&M Top, £7.99.

In other news, I had a lovely evening last night at the Leeds Fashion Challenge with lots of lovely blogger types. Post on that coming shortly.

THIS WORKS CANDLE IN BLACK SPICE & MYRRH

2011-11-03T21:52:00.000Z

Okay so visually a very dull post but I wanted to share a little love for a candle I've been loving. If you've been reading for a while you'll know I'm a huge candle fan. The first thing I do when I get in from work is kick my heels off, put the heating on and light all the candles in our lounge. I am quite picky though when it comes to scent so when I find one I love which doesn't cost the earth (Jo Malone and Diptyque I'm looking at you), I like to mention it.

This Works is a brand I love. They sell beautiful aromatherapy scented products but I had never realised that they also did candles. You can see more of their range here but I'm guessing that this Black Spice & Myrrh candle is an old one as the packaging has changed and it was half price (down from £25ish to £12ish). This smells to die for - Christmas in a candle. I'd 100% recommend having a look in your nearest TK Maxx and sniffing them all until you find a scent you love or browsing online though they're not as cheap.

CAMBRIDGE IN AUTUMN

2011-10-30T21:38:00.000Z

Wearing: Office boots via eBay, £10 | Zara grey leggings, £19.99 | H&M pink pocket tee, £7.99 | Denham cropped penguin jacket, £gift | Warehouse leopard print scarf, £3 in sale | H&M handbag, £24.99.

Had such a lovely, lovely weekend in Cambridge visiting Sam's grandparents. Weather was beautiful, conversation was good and I both ate and drank far too much. Bit of a detox is in order for this week I think. That and long overdue Shellac and hair appointments - both are dire.

PROJECT HOME

2011-10-28T18:34:00.000+01:00

I've decided to call these posts 'Project Home' as that's kind of what is happening. We live in a rented flat but that doesn't mean it's any less a home and I'm so proud of how homely this place is feeling now I've put my stamp all over it. I've wanted to write this post for about a week and a half, so here goes...

...meet my new babies!

I bought the table on eBay for a bargain of £40. We had to collect it (from three miles away, so close) and it hung out the back of my car the whole way home but it's solid oak and 1930s. I love it. Sam and I nearly got a divorce trying to get it up the stairwell to our top floor flat. Not only is it crazy heavy, it also wouldn't fit through any gaps so we had to dismantle it and two and a half hours later we finally got it up the stairs!

Now, of course, I needed the perfect chair. I spent every evening following the acquisition of the table hunting for the perfect chair. I like a mix of modern and classic style - did I want a ghost chair? A metal chair? A dining chair style chair? It was all too hard. Until I saw this gorgeous chair in HomeSense. I physically couldn't leave it and just sat on it until I decided to buy it. It wasn't cheap but I adore it. I have until now driven round with it in the boot of my car as I couldn't fit it through the front door and it's only today that Sam got our landlord to open the whole door for us. Finally!

Now I just need another lamp as I've stolen this one from our butler's tray - this homemaking project is neverending, I swear. Next on my agenda? Curtains. Problem? Can't find any big enough for our giant window.

TORTURE BY TOPSHOP.COM

2011-10-22T21:57:00.000+01:00

Seriously? This is torture. I at least need a pair of the gold shorts, pleather petite leggings and the velvet tee. And maybe one of those shrunken jackets.

GOGO PHILIP NEW COLLECTION

2011-10-21T16:22:00.000+01:00

I've appreciated Gogo Philip from a distance for some time, especially since I started watching Barbara's YouTube channel as she's a big fan. Why from afar? Well.. it's not the easiest to get hold of and since I'd never seen any in person, I didn't want to order online in case the quality disappointed.

I'm a little obsessed with my newly named 'Harry Potter necklace' (£10). Yes, I'm a huge girl geek. But look at it, it's amazing! The quality is really great, the pendant is heavy duty and the chain fine, just how I like it. I love gold costume jewellery and silver for more traditional jewellery.

I was also sent this ring (£7) but it's too tiny for my chubby little fingers. Properly disappointed as I love it's simplicity but I'm going to pop it in my little goody bag of random stuff I'm collecting for some sort of reader giveaway or similar so someone else can enjoy it.

Gogo Philip is now available at both Westfield stores, Topshop Oxford Street, ASOS.com and ASOS.com Outlet.

COSY AUTUMN DAYS

2011-10-19T17:00:00.000+01:00

Wearing: AX Paris Slouch Colour Block Jumper*, £23 | H&M Suede Panel Leggings, £9.99 | ASOS Aggie Suede Pull On Ankle Boots, £45.

How gorgeous do the leaves look at the minute? I love autumn because it means that winter is on the way and that means mince pies are only a matter of time. I keep seeing them in the supermarket and having to refrain as once I start, I can't stop.

This weekend I unpacked all of my winter clothes and put away my flimsy white summer dresses and wedge sandals. Coats and knitwear galore! I love this jumper for proper cosy weekend days when you just put the heating on and watch Downton Abbey with a good cup of tea.

*PR sample

GLOSSYBOX - OCTOBER

2011-10-18T18:48:00.000+01:00

I'll be honest, for the first month yet, I was a little underwhelmed by October's GlossyBox. I will probably enjoy the Dermalogica products but I hate the little black bag which was included and like others have said, having three of one brand isn't really why I signed up to GlossyBox. I also have a dislike for the little pink bag that the perfume samples are in but I'm sure I can get over that. Looking forward to the Stila and Leighton Denny products though.

However, I was very amused to see that GlossyBox have launched a men's version. Great for men who are interested in their appearance. My boyfriend didn't even register what I was saying so I guess he's a lost cause!

SHELLAC NAILS TEN DAY UPDATE

2011-10-17T16:54:00.000+01:00

I promised I'd update you on how the Shellac/Artistic Colour Gloss manicure was lasting. My original post resulted in quite some discussion about whether Shellac and similar products are damaging for your nails. Sarah wrote a fantastic post explaining that as long as you look after the manicure, your nails should not be damaged in anyway.

I'm now ten days into my manicure and still absolutely love it. I've not found it dull having one colour on my nails for ten days and yes regrowth is visible but not enough yet to bother me. However, as you can see from the below photos, after the first day I had two lots of major chipping on my right hand. I'm 99% sure that this was due to the shoddy application which I had as big chunks came off rather than wear or light chipping from use. Not impressed. As you can see, I did a crappy touch up job with OPI for Sephora Metro Chic as it's a reasonable enough dupe.

I haven't booked to go and have them re-done just yet, but I am waiting to see how long I can go before the regrowth starts to bug me. Then I will book in again, but definitely not at the place I went to first time round. I love the way they look, super shiny and apart from the major chipping, I've experienced no tip wear or other signs of wear and tear. Impressed!

MY NEW ABODE PART IV

2011-10-16T14:59:00.001+01:00

It surprises me, it really does, but my most popular posts are ones where I share what I've bought recently for my flat. I guess I love reading these posts too - it's an insight into the blogger's 'real life' isn't it? I've not been buying much in all honesty as I'm trying to be better with my money but I have acquired a few bits.

Both the number cushion and car cushion were from Sam's mother who shares my love for TK Maxx cushions, can't get enough! It may seem like I buy a lot of cushions but we've got a big sofa and a whole window seat to fill! Apologies for the crappy iPhone pic of the mantlepiece too but I took that the other evening as Sam bought me gladioli which look gorgeous and I had pumpkin scented candles burning. It was so cosy, it's definitely autumn here.

Operation Accessories Wardrobe is in full swing. Sam has been painting this week but I need to come up with a shoe storage solution before I can show the fruits of his labour. I promise I'm working on it. I'm also working on buying a quirky table for our lounge, am watching one on eBay so fingers crossed I win it as it will look amazing.

HIGH STREET VS MARKET FASHION

2011-10-14T18:55:00.000+01:00

Confession time. I'm terrified. The very lovely Elly asked me if I wanted to be involved in a style challenge involving teams, video footage and my favourite activity, shopping! I said yes (of course) as she is lovely and it sounded like fun. Last night I received some more detail on the challenge and am now petrified (in a good way).

Tomorrow afternoon I will be teaming up with Jen who is my partner in crime on the 'high street' team. Elly and Lauren are forming the other team, the 'markets' team. I have to say, of the two teams I am glad I'm covering off high street as I am clueless when it comes to market shopping. Maybe this experience will teach me a thing or two in the end.

Jen & I will have a £100 budget to spend on an entire outfit, the theme being Autumn/Winter 2011. Of course I will take my camera to catch Jen's frenzy mid trolley dash etc!

There's going to be an event next month as a bit of a follow up, but more on that at a later date. Needless to say, I can't wait. I'm already trying to pre-plan shopping routes in my head and planning practical shopping shoes for agility and speed. Wish us luck!

LONDON WEEKEND TRIP

2011-10-12T19:23:00.000+01:00

This weekend past I took a trip to East London to visit a couple of my old school friends for a birthday celebration. Had such a lovely weekend and, as always, the time just flew by.

I had lunch in Gordon's subterranean wine bar (so dark, lots of wine, pate and bread) then pottered around the National Portrait Gallery (had never been before). Went for a lovely curry in Brick Lane with too much wine. Woke up with horrendous wine headache and then napped until it had gone away. Lunch in Le Pain Quotidien (I say lunch, I mean pudding) with a pot of tea and then the train home again. Short but ever so sweet!

Hope you had a lovely weekend? I've got an interesting Saturday in the pipeline. More on that very soon.

REVIEW: KORRES GUAVA SHOWER GEL & LIP BUTTER

2011-10-11T19:18:00.000+01:00

I mentioned in this post that I'd never used any Korres products and having heard rave reviews wanted to give some of them a try. I ordered the Guava Shower Gel and Guava Lip Butter from feelunique.com and am pleased that I did.

Korres Guava Lip Butter
I wasn't sure which scent to choose so just plumped for the Guava as I figured it'd smell nice. It certainly does smell nice and is very moisturising. The little pot is a problem if you're a hygiene freak (unlike me) or have long nails/wear false nails and at £6 it's certainly not cheap. I really love it but if I was going to purchase another I would choose one which isn't cream in colour as there is a slight colour pay off on the lips and I know there are some pinky/coral colours which I'd prefer over a cream coloured lip.

Korres Guava Shower Gel
Something about this smells the same as when you have a shower on holiday - it's a mix of exotic fruity and suncream scent, gorgeous. The bottle isn't huge considering that it's not the cheapest of products (£7.50) but both the boyfriend and I have thoroughly enjoyed this. I'd like to try some of the other scents but may pop into Waitrose to have sniff of them all before ordering online.

I love the sound of these scents.. Mango, Vanilla Cinnamon, Coconut Milk & Mint Tea. All sound good enough to eat! Have you tried any Korres? If so what would you recommend?

P.S. My last post on Shellac nails resulted in quite a discussion and lots of you have asked to see how they last and what my nails are like afterwards so I will definitely update on this!

ALL THE RAGE: ARTISTIC COLOUR GLOSS/SHELLAC

2011-10-07T18:38:00.000+01:00

For so long I've fancied a Shellac/Gelish manicure and this week I finally bit the bullet and booked in to my local beautician.

I knew I'd have to choose one colour out of a select number of Shellac shades, but the beauty therapist whipped out a couple of extra Artistic Colour Gloss shades and pointed out what looked like a Chanel Particuliere dupe shade which I was instantly drawn to. In reality, the colour is a dupe for Metro Chic from OPI by Sephora, one of my favourite shades in my collection. This one is called All The Rage.

I'm over the moon with the colour and will do an update in 14 days to let you know how I'm getting on. One thing I wouldn't recommend is the beautician I went to. They didn't remove the sticky residue from one of my hands and Sarah had to come to my rescue on Twitter to help me get it off.

Right now (depending on how it wears) I will definitely consider getting Shellac/ACG again but maybe at a different place.

I paid £20 and the treatment took approximately 40 minutes.

In other news, I'm dashing off to London tomorrow to visit some friends and can't wait! I will be absent this weekend but will hopefully take lots of photos to share on my return!

MY CURRENT DAILY FACE

2011-10-02T14:08:00.000+01:00

I know it looks like I'm currently sponsored by bareMinerals but I swear I'm not! This is what my current daily face is created by though it changes on a weekly basis so this will be out of date in no time at all. I don't usually use so much of one brand but I went a little bM crazy lately so that's why.

Primer, Concealer & Foundation
I bought bM Prime Time after it was used on me at a recent event and my skin looked amazing. It's alright - to be honest I've never found a primer where I've though 'oh my god this is life changing', my make-up always rubs off. My concealer is currently the Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection in shade number 1. Everyone raves about this and I do like it, just not as much as everyone else seems to. As it's so inexpensive I will definitely repurchase though. bM Original Foundation in Fairly Light (which suits me with and without fake tan) has been a product which I've repeat purchased as I love it. Perfect looking skin and blemish-free.

Highlight, Bronzer & Blusher
All bM products, sorry! I mix Radiance (this was a sample at the event) with my foundation to give a bit of luminosity and prevent my skin from looking too flat. I use Warmth all over the face but concentrating on temples and in the hollows of my cheeks. Finally the blusher is a new one to the bM range which is called Vintage Peach and it is so gorgeous, pale, peachy, slightly shimmery pink.

Mascara, Eyeliner & Brows
I was using (and enjoying) the Daniel Sandler mascara from my August GlossyBox but I received this bM Flawless Definition Volumizing Mascara from the event as a sample and it really surprised me. I've said it before but I rate bM for skin products but prefer to use other brands on my eyes. I really love this and will probably buy the full size when this one is finished. I've used Clinique Brush On Cream Eyeliner for about a year now and really like it. I know some love it and others just can't get on with it but I will repurchase this as find it works great for me. I am using the shade 'Buck' from the Urban Decay Naked palette on my brows at the moment and loving it. I then sweep through them with my Anastasia Brow Gel (can't find anywhere in the UK to purchase? I bought mine in Sephora, New York) which is very much on its last legs (but I have used it for about 15 months every single day).

To finish
bM Mineral Veil all over the face and a sweeping of Korres Guava Lip Butter which I'm in love with.

Brushes
For foundation, bronzer and setting powder I use the Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush. For concealer I use the Sigma E40. For blusher I use the Bare Escentuals Tapered Blush Brush. For my eyeliner I use a MAC 210 and for my brows I use a Sigma E65.

Apologies for the grubby make-up - I don't know how anyone keeps theirs clean and neat? It's messy stuff! No doubt this post will be irrelevant in a matter of days as my routine will have changed, oh well.

All purchased myself except the Sigma brushes which I won in a giveaway and the few bM samples (Flawless Definition Mascara and Radiance) I received at an event which I paid to attend.

ASOS AGGIE BOOTS

2011-10-01T16:41:00.000+01:00

ASOS Black Aggie Boots, £45

... and I thought these boots were perfection. Ah, little black, heeled ankle boots, I cannot get enough of you! This is my nod to the Isabel Marant Dicker boots which will never be mine. I can't wait to use these until the heel is worn down to the ground.

I do love my New Look bargain pair, but they're quite high and with no concealed platform, they're not at all comfortable to walk in. I manage in them but they're no good for a ten hour day at work or anything like that whereas I'm hoping my Aggie boots will be much more work appropriate.

I have been wearing these lovelies this week but certainly not this weekend - my goodness it's hot! As I said in my last post, bring back the winter weather please. I'm a sartorial disaster right now.

HEATWAVE? WHAT HEATWAVE?

2011-09-29T18:48:00.001+01:00

I'm refusing to let this momentary hot weather in England distract me from autumn/winter shopping. I figure that the weather is a temporary blip in my wardrobe planning and all will resume as normal in no time at all. Probably this weekend, when I'm off work, we'll be back to torrential rain and single figure temperatures.

My little ankle boots which I ordered have now arrived (pure joy, more on that later) and I've been eyeing up cashmere left right and centre. I've already got a few jumpers, some mine, some stolen from my boyfriend but have been admiring ladies cardigans from Pure Collection. Okay, if they did men's cardigans, I'd probably be all over those too.

Pure Collection Merino Blend Round Neck Cardigan, £79.

I think I need a preppy little primary school style one like this one.And while I'm at it again.. I really want the blazer below. I'm obsessed with the whole 'heritage' thing that's going on this season and this little herringbone blazer, plus the primary school cardigan above are like my dream pairing. With my new boots of pure joy perhaps. Oh, if only money grew on trees! Maybe a little payday treat is required.

Pure Collection Herringbone Blazer, £189.

In collaboration with Pure Collection, a brand I have long admired from afar!

ONLINE BEAUTY HAULING - FEELUNIQUE.COM

2011-09-26T19:08:00.002+01:00

I really am not a fan of buying things online for one reason only - I hate to wait for my goodies! Saying that, I do still do an awful lot of online shopping. I love to shop and unless I do it at the weekend, I don't have time during the week to satiate my need to spend unless I venture online.

I heard of feelunique.com forever ago on one of Fleur's early videos and thought 'ooh, cheap' but nothing much of it. I've since worked out that with free international shipping too, it's actually a really good place to buy some of the brands I love. This is why on my recent posts which included bareMinerals products, I've linked to feelunique.com as it's way cheaper than buying in-store and you don't have the annoying P&P charges which most websites throw in there.

If I'm going to write about a site, I like to know the service is decent. This is the reason I would never recommend any of you to shop at H&M. The service is appalling and knowing that something is going to arrive within five days is important to me. I don't want it to be so long I've forgotten about it! I bought a load of bareMinerals products from feelunique the week before last and though they arrived in two separate parcels (which really threw me as they arrived at the same time!) they arrived really quickly. And I can pay by PayPal, which is good considering all that stuff I just sold on eBay! It's not real money, promise.

So I may have made another order. Oops. I'm starting to run out of room to house all these beauty products but I needed all this.

Xen-Tan Deep Bronze Luxe | Xen-Tan Deluxe Tanning Mitt (which looks like a new model?) | Joico K-Pak | Korres Guava Lip Butter | Korres Guava Shower Gel.

So much to choose from, it took me two hours to fine tune my basket but I have to say I'm very pleased with my final order. The Xen-Tan was an order made after trying this very same product in my July GlossyBox - proof that the concept works! I'd tried the Transform before but not this and I've worn my mitt out so that was an essential. These are the first Korres products I've ever tried and I can't wait to get stuck in.

If you're ever tempted to make an online purchase of anything beauty/gifts/home related I definitely recommend feelunique.com - pay them a visit.

I was gifted a voucher to spend on feelunique.com on products of my choice, but I do spend my own hard earned money on the site too.

MY NEW ABODE PART III

2011-09-25T12:44:00.000+01:00

I am definitely going to keep these posts up for as long as I'm making changes to the flat as they seem to go down well and I love sharing a little more of my personal life with you all.

Cheap candle from TK Maxx (where else?) but smells divine.

You've see this photo before but the Le Creuset teapot, the Jan Constantine tea cosy and the wooden tray are all new.

I'd been looking for a perfume tray for forever and really struggling. Located this one in a tiny independent shop in Headingley (Tableau for those who are local) for £15.

I've been unable to find a bedside table/box of some sort which was just perfect for my lamp/magazines/books - this upside down basket will suffice for now.

I found some giant wooden letters and by some weird circumstance, they had both an 'L' and an 'S'. Mine, the 'L', is the bedroom and the 'S' is in the lounge. I decided to keep them separate so guests didn't think we were crazy!

Last (but definitely not least!), we have borrowed Sam's family's cat, Steve, for the time being. So lovely having a cat around the place, he's been keeping me company.

I have a little plan in place for my accessories wardrobe. I've done nothing but mope this weekend as I'm completely ridden with cold but hopefully next weekend I can begin my little project.

Apologies for the photos in this post, it is such a dark and miserable day today in Leeds! Hope you have all had a lovely weekend.

HARVEY NICHOLS' A/W '11 FASHION SHOW

2011-09-22T19:56:00.001+01:00

It's not quite London Fashion Week but for those of us who work full time in Leeds, Harvey Nichols' A/W '11 Fashion Show is the closest we're going to get. Saying that, I had an amazing evening last night meeting some fab bloggers, drinking too much champagne, admiring beautiful clothes and shoes and eating delicious food.

Oh how perfect that little white dress is. Models were gorgeous, I loved the girls' hairstyles which I'm definitely going to try and replicate and the men in their underwear. They were my favourite.

For those of you know are that inquisitive, I had the salmon, followed by the sea bass. Ellie thoroughly disapproved of me eating two lots of fish. So good though!

Amazing to see/meet: Jen, Saf, Ellie, Sabrina, Sarah & Shang.

I was invited as a guest of Harvey Nichols.

OOTD: LEIGH JEANS, ANKLE BOOTS & KNITWEAR

2011-09-18T16:11:00.000+01:00

Wearing: Topshop Leigh Jeans, £38 | Topshop Knitted Stitch Tie Back Top, £40 | New Look Block Heel Ankle Boot, now only £19.99.

Today I had a lovely long lie in with breakfast in bed. Sam & I played tennis at Meanwood Park and then went for some lunch at LS6. I had a smoked salmon and scrambled eggs bagel. Lovely!

SKINCARE ROUTINE

2011-09-18T09:30:00.000+01:00

For the first time in about twelve months, my skin is actually looking half decent. By that I mean no catastrophically large blemishes in a while. I still get the odd teeny one but really it's nothing I can't cope with. I think my current regime is working well and I'm going to resist the urge to mix it up when I get bored because this works for me. As a general rule, my skin is quite dry so this is only what I can recommend for my skintype.

Morning and night I use Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish with a muslin cloth and very hot water. I've mentioned previously that I love this product and nothing has changed. At night, before using the C&P I get the majority of my make-up off with a Johnson's face wipe and then the Johnson's eye make up remover on some cotton wool. I prefer the Simple eye make up remover because it doesn't sting my eyes at all but this one works perfectly fine.

My daytime moisturiser is currently Cleo Q Probiotic Regenerate EGF Nourishing Creme* which is moisturising but quite light. In contrast, my night time moisturiser is much more heavy duty and I bought this immediately after finishing up a sample pot, bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Cream. It is very thick and luxurious which is great for nighttime.

I've just started using the bareMinerals Renew & Hydrate Eye Cream. I don't think I can really 'review' eye creams as for me they're preventative rather than making any physical difference upon use. At night I also use Rodial's Glam Balm which smells lovely and leaves my skin oily (I adore an oily product!). Last but not least, at night I put on a thin layer of bareMinerals Pure Transformation Night Treatment which I mentioned in a recent post.

This probably seems like quite a lot but you know what? It works.

*PR sample

GLOSSYBOX - SEPTEMBER

2011-09-17T17:39:00.001+01:00

I really am impressed with this month's GlossyBox. The HD Brows palette is clearly the hero product but I'm also looking forward to using the Mythic Oil, Nuxe Oil and StriVectin eye cream. Win, win, win! I personally like that we all get different products. I know others have said that this really bugs them about the service, but I like the surprise aspect and so far I've never been really gutted that I didn't get an item that so-and-so did. Maybe I've just been lucky.

TOPSHOP JAMIE VS TOPSHOP LEIGH JEANS

2011-09-16T18:45:00.000+01:00

Top: Leigh, Bottom: Jamie

I really felt obliged to write this post as I want to enlighten everyone following a revelation I have had this week. For the past twelve months I have been wearing my beloved Topshop Jamie jeans in dark or lighter blue depending on the season. I love them, they're skinny jeans but with plenty of Lycra. What's not to love? They're great for petite girls like me who need a 28" length (I can just about cope with a 30"). I've always bought them in a UK 8 as they've been perfect for me.

I think I just assumed that there was nothing better. I used to wear the Baxter jeans which were skinny but with little Lycra, so the Jamies were a distinct improvement and became my perfect pair. I was so besotted I never even considered that the newer Leigh jeans could compare.

Yes, I'll admit I had had a feel in my local Topshop store and they were lovely and soft, but I wasn't convinced they'd fit well or would be flattering as they're a much thinner material and the proper denim of the Jamies does pull you in a lot.

Well, I'll admit I was wrong. This weekend I picked up a pair of Leigh jeans in a dark grey. When I tweeted on Monday about how much better my new jeans were than my old Jamies, I received a torrent of love for the Leighs. It turns out that everyone else knew how amazing they were and I simply missed the memo. Softer, more like leggings but with the reassuurance of proper pockets and zip. You can definitely have your bum out and not be judged in these unlike with leggings (though I do this, regularly).

And they're cheaper at £38 rather than £40. I want a pair in every colour. I'm mad at you all for not telling me!

NEW STUFF

2011-09-14T18:28:00.000+01:00

Topshop Cream Knitted Stitch Tie Back Top, £40 | Joe Browns Snuggly Navajo Jacket*, £27.95 | YUJU UK Long Cream Leather Charm Necklace*, £24.

You can tell I'm preparing for autumn/winter, can't you? Just a couple of bits I've acquired lately which are making me happy. I've got another post on it's way about another more specific item but you will see all of the above cropping up in outfit photos soon hopefully. I've already deemed that cream jumper my 'Christmas jumper' (an essential, surely) and I've been wearing the shearling jacket around the house because I love it but it's not quite cold enough yet.

*PR sample

LAZY DAY

2011-09-07T17:36:00.000+01:00

I have spent today drinking tea...

(Jan Constantine tea cosy, Le Creuset teapot, Sophie Allport cups)

And popping some of my lesser worn items on eBay - please take a look, I've put the usual Topshop/Warehouse/H&M items but also some exciting dresses from Moschino/Missoni/Amanda Wakeley/Alannah Hill.

NEW HAIR

2011-09-06T11:49:00.000+01:00

Wearing: Topshop Chiffon Gold Button Shirt, £36 | Zara jodhpur style leggings, £19.99 | Dune leather riding boots via eBay, £30 | H&M handbag, £24.99.

If you follow me on Twitter, you may have already seen my new hair. To many this may not seem too radical but it took five hours in the chair and I'm over the moon with the transformation. I had 4-5 inches off the length all over giving me a much blunter cut and as a result my hair looks twice as thick and so much healthier.

I had some serious colour banding going on so in an attempt to get rid of that (roots, warm brown, bleach) I had a full head of lowlights and some highlights pulled through my roots and warm brown sections. One hundred foils later...

I know the lowlights will wash out soon enough but I will go back and keep having them done. This is what bleach does to your hair if you're not careful with it!

PS. It's so good having some time off work - six days! I've had a weekend trip to Newcastle and have eaten my body weight in food. Now I'm off to Harrogate for lunch at Victus, Jenson Button's brand new restaurant.

BAREMINERALS NEW SKINCARE RANGE

2011-09-02T18:06:00.000+01:00

My friend Claire and I attended a bareMinerals event at Harvey Nichols on Wednesday evening. We paid to attend with the cost being redeemable on products. I knew I'd spend that no problem as quite fancied a new pot of the foundation so it wasn't a hard decision. What I wasn't expecting was that Wednesday was the launch of the brand new skincare range from bareMinerals! About time, too.

I love bareMinerals make-up and will do a post shortly on the items I bought as it's such a huge brand in the US and I think people over here are a little cautious about the concept. I'm gonna sell it in to you as I'm a huge fan. One thing they were missing for me though, was a skincare range. Their make-up is designed to be 'good' for skin so it seemed odd to me that they didn't have such a range.

Cleansers:
Purifying Facial Cleanser
Deep Cleansing Foam - if you like a squeaky clean face

Moisturisers:
Purely Nourishing Cream (dry skin) - I have this, it smells divine and is really thick
Purely Nourishing Moisturiser (combination/normal-dry)

Treatments:
Pure Transformation Night Treatment - at £45 I may be crazy for buying this
Firming Eye Treatment Renew & Hydrate Eye Cream - bought this as felt guilty for not using an eye cream
Blemish Remedy

There may be more than that but that's all I can find online right now and it seems about the right amount. As you can see, I picked up a few of the items and received a few samples of products too with the moisturiser being one of those. So far, the moisturiser and eye cream are lovely but I will be surprised if they are life changing. However, I have high hopes for the Pure Transformation Night Treatment.

You apply this product at night before bed after you have cleansed and moisturised. You use the brush within the lid to buff the mineral on to your skin. It comes in several colours, I automatically picked up 'Light' without thinking that really I should have just got the clear one. It supposedly increases cell turnover rate which leaves you with brighter, more youthful, pore-reduced, even skin. I will let you know!Packaging is gorgeous. Sturdy but pretty. You really feel like these products are worth the money, let's hope that they prove themselves over the next couple of weeks.

JOE BROWNS A/W '11

2011-08-28T16:27:00.000+01:00

Friday before last I went to see Joe Browns' A/W '11 collection at their enormous warehouse in Leeds. I'll be honest, I'd never heard of Joe Browns. They're a company which has been going for years but started off as mail order and they now have their own website (as well as supplying other companies such as Simply Be and Freemans). For the most part their clothes are a bit 'out there' for someone like me who loves neutrals but they actually had some pieces which I really loved (more on that to come).

As much as I loved looking through the rails of clothes, I also really loved meeting lots of new faces and reacquainting myself with some older faces. Lovely to see you: Jen, Laura, Kate, Victoria, Charl & Laura. And everyone else too - too many to name.

Wearing: AX Paris Pleated Black Chiffon Shorts*, £10 | H&M Black Lace Scarf, £4.99 | H&M Plain Vest, £2.99 | Black Leather Jacket, TK Maxx £40 | My hair is au naturel and I'm wearing MAC's Please Me lipstick.

Thanks to Joe Browns for a fantastic evening, such a lovely company!

*PR sample

MY FOUNDATION COLLECTION

2011-08-27T15:55:00.005+01:00

After watching Barbara's recent foundation video, I felt like doing a short but sweet on foundation. In the above photo you can see the current foundations which are lurking in my make-up collection. The only other one I've used recently was MAC's Face & Body but I donated this to Jennie as it started breaking me out.

Clinique Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturiser (in Shade 01)
This is what I use most days. It's definitely a foundation, rather than a tinted moisturiser and you can read my full review of this product here. I'm slowly getting towards the end of this bottle and am not sure if I'll repurchase. As I mentioned the other day, repurchasing isn't in my nature and though I really love this, I want to try something new.

Botanics Tinted Moisturiser
Now this is a tinted moisturiser and just isn't enough coverage for me so I only wear it if I want a properly bare-faced look. I love the fresh scent though.

Garnier BB Cream (in Light)
I purchased this today (oh how I love a bit of hype) and haven't even tried it yet. Will report back.

Bare Minerals Mineral Foundation (in Fairly Light)
The image above shows my portable brush/foundation combo and I've run out of the actual pot. I love how good for my skin mineral make-up is and I don't get blemishes when I use it. However, my skin is a bit dry and I feel like a powder isn't as satisfying to use as a liquid foundation. I'm going to a BM event at Harvey Nics next week though and will probably re-purchase.

Estee Lauder Double Wear (in 1W1 Bone 17)
Loads of you told me not to buy this telling me it would be too heavy for me. You were all right! It's good for a night out though.

Bourjois 10 Hour Sleep Effect Foundation (in 71)
I actually really like this little foundation, it's so cheap but it smells like talcum powder and does a perfectly good job. Definitely good if you're on a budget though the Healthy Mix is supposed to be much better. I've yet to try that one.

Revlon PhotoReady (in 003 Shell)
Loads of people hate the shimmer in this but I can't notice it on my face at all and really love using this. If I touch my face, the shimmer is transferred on to my fingers but it's nothing traumatic. Perfect if you're going out too as you don't get that white cast in photos.

So, what do you guys recommend? What do I need to try? I'm thinking one of the following next:

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua
Bourjois Healthy Mix
Chanel Pro Lumiere

AX PARIS PLEATED CHIFFON SHORTS

2011-08-25T20:30:00.000+01:00

AX Paris (which you may have seen on blogs and in New Look stores) came to my rescue last week. I was attending a blogger event and didn't quite fancy wearing anything in my wardrobe. These gorgeous little pleated chiffon shorts* arrived on my work doorstep just in time and were the answer to all my problems.

This is as much as I will buy into the pleated trend. Though others look amazing in maxi pleated skirts, I just look ridiculous. These shorts look a lot like a skirt when worn but have the safety aspect of being shorts!

They're currently on sale for £10 down from £25.

P.S. Full outfit coming soon to a blog near you when I post about the event!
*PR sample

NEW HANDBAG

2011-08-23T09:11:00.000+01:00

If you've been reading Miss Lucy Loves... for any length of time, you will know I'm a huge handbag lover. I'm very picky and, as a general rule, do tend to go for pricey ones. However, when I see a bag I like, even if it's cheap and not leather, I will buy it.

I picked this bucket bag up from H&M for £24.99. If it was leather I think it would be my absolute perfect bag. It probably wouldn't be less than £25 though.

MOROCCAN OIL - I UPGRADED!

2011-08-22T18:01:00.001+01:00

I'm not a big repurchaser as I mentioned a couple of posts ago. There are very few products which I regularly buy again and again but this is one of those few products and, well.. I upgraded.

Why? This stuff works miracles and though not everyone loves the scent, I adore it. It's luxurious, it tames my lion mane and is a pleasure to use.

MY NEW ABODE PART II

2011-08-21T16:30:00.000+01:00

I bought this mirror for our bathroom and temporarily placed it on the mantlepiece. Absolutely loved it up there but have been forced to put it on the bathroom wall now. Desperately seeking another just like this for the mantlepiece. TK Maxx, £29.99.

Spotted this cushion in TK Maxx (my favourite ever homeware shop) and thought it was very Jan Constantine. It's by Barbara Coupe and should have been £65 but was only £24.99.

Finally got something on the walls. Photos of our holiday to New York last summer. Good memories!

I can't tell you how long I've searched for a lamp which was big enough for our spacious lounge and which had a bit of personality. I know it's a bit weird, but I flipping love this thing. It is standing on our inherited 'tray with legs' which I love - does anyone know the proper name? Lamp from TK Maxx (where else?), £34.99.

Last but not least, I thought some of you ladies might appreciate my 'accessories wardrobe' in the bedroom. These built-in Victorian wardrobes are amazing storage and I've dedicated this one to handbags, shoes and scarves. It is my favourite place and I will show you inside once it's a little less chaotic.

You all seemed to really like the last post I did on my new flat so I thought I'd do a little update on how things are looking. I'm trying desperately hard not to lose momentum and keep things moving so we don't 'get used to' the mismatched tiling in the bathroom and the dodgy paint job I've done on the wardrobe.

BOOTS OF JOY

2011-08-21T15:39:00.004+01:00

New Look Block Heel Ankle Boot, £29.99.

Saw these on Kelly's blog and went on the hunt for them. Perfect!

REPEAT PURCHASES

2011-08-19T18:29:00.001+01:00

L-R: Oilatum Natural Repair Face Cream | Quickies Nail Varnish Remover Pads | Seche Vite Top Coat | Mavala Scientifique | Batiste Blonde Dry Shampoo.

I'm brand loyal when it comes to food and clothes but am fickle when it comes to beauty. These are the only products (that I can think of right now) that I will buy over and over again and I think that this says a lot about them. Oilatum is the best moisturiser for dry skin, Quickies dry out really quickly but they're so much less hassle, Seche Vite does go gloopy after about 6 months but I usually use it up before then, Mavala is the only thing which saves my nails and Batiste is perfection for root coverage and second day hair.

P.S. Missed one item off but I will cover that in an upcoming post!

GLOSSYBOX - AUGUST

2011-08-18T18:24:00.005+01:00

My overwhelming feeling about August's GlossyBox is that OH MY GOD where did that last four weeks go?! I also have to confess that I don't get the joy of opening my own parcel as Sam rips it open as soon as the postman has been and sends me a photo of the contents.

Can't wait to try the Daniel Sandler mascara and the Murad cleanser! I can see myself making a right mess with those Rebel Nails.

RETAIL THERAPY

2011-08-06T18:18:00.004+01:00

L-R: Zara Grey Jumper with Elbow Patches, £19.99 | Zara Grey Equestrian Style Leggings, £19.99 | Topshop White Silky Top, £16 | Topshop Gold Wishbone Necklace, £7.50 | Topshop Studded Pumps, £28.

It's quite rare for me to go shopping and buy as much as this. I usually just buy one or two things at a time rather than go out intending to spend money like I did this morning. I was supposed to be buying some smarter pieces for work but kind of failed. I'll still wear all this to work but just on days I don't have meetings.

Happy Saturday to you all! Hope you're had a good week and are relaxing this weekend. I'm lounging on the sofa watching old Gossip Girl (I stopped watching mid way through season 4 so catching up), drinking tea and flicking through Grazia. Work is pretty intense at the minute so I'm loving doing nothing at the weekends when I really should be decorating..

TOPSHOP LUST

2011-08-03T20:00:00.000+01:00

L-R: Padded Faux Fur Waxed Jacket, £95 | Petite Leigh Jeans, £38 | Silver Cable Plait Snood, £22 | Marvel Suede Chelsea Boots, £36.

Yep.. definitely in A/W mode. I wanted to add a top into the mix here as well but I only really want plain and boring at the minute. That jacket (not 100% on the faux fur), those boots.. and the jeans were just for good measure as all of my current ones are a bit big (hurrah for weightloss though).

REVIEW: SUDOCREM SKIN CARE CREAM

2011-08-02T20:00:00.001+01:00

I was sent a couple of tubes of Sudocrem Skin Care Cream to try out and wanted to drop them a little mention. For me, this is a product of pure nostalgia. I'm sure I'm not the only one who loves the scent. It takes me back to my childhood and for some reason it is extremely comforting.

As I mentioned in my July Glossybox post, I'm really struggling at the moment with dry skin. Spending a week in the Italian sunshine hasn't half dehydrated my skin and I've got a few areas of particular dryness including my nose, chin and (bizarrely) feet. My usual moisturisers (Oilatum on my face, Garnier 7 Day on my body) just weren't cutting it on these areas so before bed every night I've been piling on the Sudocrem Skin Care Cream* to rescue my skin. Yes, you look completely white (unless you seriously rub in) but this reassures me that it really means business.

Have started throwing one in my handbag, just in case. They really are perfectly handbag sized (tell me, why aren't all products?). Go have a look at the SudocremTube Bagology App and you can 'like' Sudocrem on there too.

I'm personally tempted to buy a big pot of the original stuff because it's supposed to be really great for blemishes with it's antiseptic properties. Sudocrem, please can we have a handbag sized version of the original?

EDIT: Lucy just informed that this already exists - evidence!

*PR sample

THE LIZ EARLE EXPERIENCE

2011-08-01T14:10:00.003+01:00

I doubt many of you reading this haven't heard of Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish. I re-purchase this product religiously as it is the only thing which keeps my skin clear and is a delight to use (gentle, thorough, hot, effective, lovely scent etc), as I'm sure many of you lovely ladies do.

However, I wanted to just write a little post about the 'Liz Earle Experience'. I do not re-purchase this product online, simply because I love to go into the store (Victoria Quarter, Leeds). The staff are knowledgable, will recommend ways for you to save money and are just really, very nice. They wrap up your parcel in gorgeous paper and ribbon (which goes in my craft box - geek) and drop in a free sample, checking beforehand that you are happy to receive that sample. Today I also received a loyalty card which I know I will fill up in no time.

For me, the experience is all part of the purchasing process. I'm especially this way when it comes to having my hair done. It can be a great haircut and well priced but if my cup of tea isn't perfect then I won't go back as I enjoy the whole experience. Am I the only one who feels this way?

Well done, Liz Earle.