Kim Gray Stylist Fashion Decor Lifestyle Cape Town South Africa

Remember to watch out for BEAUTY FEATURE FRIDAYS for all your beauty news and tips! Some exciting brands lined up!

I was really sad to have to miss the launch of the brand new India Hicks Island Night Range, but I got to catch up with Vincent of Crabtree and Evelyn for an exclusive preview. I hear it was a magical evening, I’m sure in true Crabtree and Evelyn Style. So here is a sneak peak at the products, as it’s only available from September. But totally worth the wait!

The Rich Body Cream and Smooth Body Lotion are so velvety smooth due to coconut oil leaving your hands so soft and fragrant. The crushed pearl leaves the skin smooth with a very subtle shimmer and sheen. Vincent pointed out what was to be quite amazing to me, how the sent actually changes . At first a fresh fruity smell, and then as the cream settles into your skin, it becomes more soft and of floral notes. So pretty!

I was lucky enough to receive a bottle of the Eau De Toilette. Not to be worn every day, this is a special fragrance for those special nights out when you want to feel indulgent, romanced and luxurious. The ingredients of “purple and white orchids, night blooming jasmine, green island palms and orange blossom nectar entwined with a soft woody musk accord” are enough to romance anyone.

And on that floral note, it’s date night. My India Hicks Island Night awaits me….

Woohoo it’s arrived. A cult favourite since 1985, Smith’s Rosebud Lipbalm has hit S.A Shores. Find it here!

This product is not only going to leave your lips chap-free – but this Rose Bud Salve can be lathered onto dry knees and elbows, insect bites and moms, it’s a multi task-er, from lips to nappy rash, this little tin is a handbag must! The Minted Rose Lip Balm, well this I would wear in the morning, it gives a little wake-up kick, or right before kissing. It’s fresh, minty and makes your lips tingle. Mmmm.

The next 3, Brambleberry Rose, Strawberry and Mocha Rose, you’ll just want to stick a teaspoon into. These are totally and utterly delicious smelling , leave lips soft and moisturized with a subtle sheen. I think I would have bought this product just for the vintage tin, but luckily, it’s packed with goodness!

Good Friend and renound Cape Town make-up artist Sylvie Hurford says:

“I have always been enchanted with roses. So much, that I named my daughter Rose.
I bought my first tin of Smith’s Rosebud lip salve at  Ricky’s on Broadway in New York about 10 years ago, not knowing that it was a cult favourite, iconic amongst make up artists, models and actresses – I just loved the vintage tin, the fact that it could be used for a baby’s bottom (!) , the sheer pink tint, the fact that you hardly ever have to reapply and the smell, the smell, the smell. Its a great unifier – someone spots it in your kit, falls on it with delight and then you bond instantly postulating the wonders of Rosebud! I keep a tin in my bag, a tin in my kit and a stock of tins on my bathroom shelf.”

Also watch out for the Menthol and Eucalyptus balm for those weary days when  you need some TLC on muscles, mind and mood! Marvelous!

So being in the fashion industry and chatting to make-up artists and models on an almost daily basis, beauty products are always a hot topic. Each one sharing their secrets and favourite products. Now, every Friday, I’ll be putting some products to the test, and sharing with you, tips, secrets and my feelings on the product.

Clarins has sent me a wonderful goodie bag containing  skin and make-up products, I think it’s only fair to give the skin products some time on the testing front, but I’m jumping right into this bag to start playing with make-up.

How appropriate that I am going to a Christmas in June party tonight, as Clarins have sent this gorgeous Rouge Appeal 08 Long Lasting lipstick. I’ve always been a little afraid to do red lips myself, but the 08 is a very cheery red and it feels very moisturizing! The red packaging feels very glam and rather nice to hold actually. I will def be sporting this red tonight!

Make-up tip, RED LIPSTICK : From Make-up artist Jade Leggat

‘Red lips are anybodies game and are ultimately flattering. The key to getting it right is choosing the correct colour. When hunting for your red take your skin tone into account, if you have a warm skin tone with golden undertones, your best red should be yellow toned, think tomato, orange and tawny reds. For paler English roses with cool skin tones, try blue-based red tones of blackberry, plum and ruby. The classic London bus red is a fail safe option that suits everyone.’

Next these Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector glosses look very me! In light natural colours, these are very much an every day must have for handbags. With a gloss finish, subtle colour and shimmer, I feel groomed and not over “make-uped”

Next shock me, shock me. Has Clarins got a little bit of an edgy streak!? At first glance the Glossy Nail Colour 06 looks black, but when trying it on, it’s a deep plum colour that is rather delightful for winter. Stunning! Oh wow, and the 02, nude colour just gives nails that groomed look, just what you need when you don’t have time to keep between the lines. This can be used in a hurry which I love!

lastly, love this 4 in one eyeshadow compact.The Quartet. My two favourite colours. Grey and Navy, that I would never have thought of for the eye’s, but will give them a bash! All round the packaging is great, the product feels luxurious and I’ll definitely stop at a Clarins counter next time!

Watch out for the skin products review in up coming BEAUTY FEATURE FRIDAYS. Have a Fabulous Friday!