IT Cosmetics CC Cream Review

It's hard to believe that there may be a product waiting in the wings to snatch the crown from Estée Lauder's iconic Doublewear Foundation... but I think I might just have found it... In all honesty I don't think I will ever feel comfortable not to have a bottle of DW on my makeup shelf, reaching for it for those special occasions BUT Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ is the product I've been reaching for this Summer and is now my must have base.

What IT Cosmetics say 

Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50 is our #1 best-selling, colour-correcting cream that delivers 7 benefits all in one! This multi-tasking hero could possibly be everything your skin needs in one easy step: full coverage foundation and anti-ageing with SPF50 that brightens and hydrates while camouflaging skin imperfections. Our skin-loving CC+ Cream diffuses the look of wrinkles, minimises the appearance of pores and gives you a beautiful-looking complexion. Ideal if you’re looking for full coverage makeup, hydration and younger-looking skin. Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream is available in original, illumination and oil-free matte finishes.

My thoughts 

I use the original version in shade Light. My skin type is normal/combination and I am yellow toned, usually wearing one up from the lightest shade. This shade is perfect for me.

This does everything that it promises. From the useful design of the tube with an easy pump dispenser, one small pump and you get enough to give perfect coverage. The texture of the cream is serum like and blends beautifully and seamlessly into the skin so it looks just like your skin but better. For those who have a keen sense of smell, this CC Cream has a very light herbal scent. Full coverage, it covers blemishes, redness and imperfections. It feels hydrating on the skin, skin looks smooth and the foundation makes skin have a healthy and luminous glow without looking greasy. I love it.

A blindingly brilliant 10/10 I can't think of a single fault with this product. Have you tried it yet?

Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ costs £31 

The Sanderson Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea Review

Just off of London's Oxford Street is Berner's Street and it is here that you will find The Sanderson Hotel. Step inside and you are instantly transported into a fun oasis, home of the famous Lips Couch and serving up the famously themed Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea. 

I did my homework before I made my booking, I looked at the reviews and a few people mentioned that if you are seated in The Courtyard it can be a little cold. Blankets are provided but, as we were going in December and my mum had recently undergone a major (life saving) operation and felt the cold more than most people, I called to make my booking. At the other end of the line was the really lovely Mikey and he promised that we could sit in The Restaurant so I went ahead and booked. 

On the day I was mightily glad that I had made that phone call as the wind was whipping up a treat, it was bitterly cold and snow was on its way, literally, it arrived that evening!! We were shown to a fabulous and private booth and it made us very feel special, which was a lovely touch as this was a very, very special occasion for us. 

The staff were utterly fantastic, friendly, attentive and helpful to the extreme... one of them was always happy, offering to take pictures of us as he went past which gave us a good laugh :)

The afternoon tea is fun, quirky and most importantly absolutely delicious. Our package came with a free cocktail included in the price and this was a lovely touch too.

The menu

Savoury

Smoked salmon Scotch quails egg with caviar and cream cheese 

Stack of King of Hearts ham and Parmesan croque-monsieur

Cornish crab brioche roll with spiced avocado and coriander 

White Rabbit cucumber and cream cheese sandwich on pesto bread 

Sweet

Queen of Hearts rose and strawberry Jammy Dodger 

Mocha chessboard gateau 

Tweedle Dee lemon curd financier 

Mad March Hare vanilla pocket watch macaroon 

Chocolate and pistachio Blue Caterpillar 

Wonderland marshmallow magic mushrooms 

Mad Hatters lost carrot and fennel meringue 

Alice’s exotic fruits 'Drink Me' Potion'

Warm scones served with Cornish clotted cream and fruit preserve.

A nice mix of savory offerings, I loved the crab brioche roll in particular. The sweet treats were a genuine real treat, with the fun and magical theme carried through and thought out brilliantly. You cannot but help having a smile on your face as you sit down to devour each and every one. This was a faultless afternoon tea and with all the little touches, like the quirky teapots and mini bottles, it was just utterly delightful. The afternoon passed almost too quickly! 

I give it a A Mad Hatters 10/10 

The Sanderson Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea costs from £48 a person 

West Lodge Park Hotel Afternoon Tea Review

Who doesn't love an impromptu Afternoon Tea?

I  had planned to spend a day with my sister, baby niece and mum, not wishing to travel too far we made our way to West Lodge Park Hotel in Cockfosters, North London.

West Lodge Park Hotel is a Country House Hotel set in vast and stunning grounds in Hertfordshire. It plays host to weddings and functions but is equally welcoming to those dining out or wishing to enjoy the grounds and Sun Terrace.

Originally we had planned to have lunch but on a whim, changed our minds and decided to experience Afternoon Tea instead. As the sitting was from 3pm we had a little time to wait and were invited to take a seat in the bar. Although we just turned up and this may be okay to do during weekdays, I would personally prebook to avoid disappointment.

Afternoon Tea is served in The Mary Beale Restaurant and the walls are adorned with fabulous historical Art. The windows are floor to ceiling so the room is bright and airy and made for a lovely, relaxed environment to take tea.

A standard afternoon tea costs a very reasonable £23.50 per person and includes the following

Four finger sandwiches served on a variety of artisan breads 
Chef’s choice savoury item 
Two warm scones with Devonshire clotted cream and Tiptree jam 
Selection of three homemade seasonal cakes and pastries 
Café du Monde coffee or Newby of London tea

If you fancy an alcoholic tipple there are options of Prosecco or Champagne for an additional charge. Dietary requirements are also catered for.

Our only little niggle was that we didn't want the salmon sandwiches and would have liked an option from the vegetarian sandwich selection but were only allowed to order a replacement sandwich from the menu we were having which was a little disappointing.

Nevertheless the sandwiches were tasty and fresh. I loved the addition of a bitesize quiche.The scones were cooked to perfection and had just the right amount of crumble so as not to fall apart the minute you apply the cream and jam. The cakes were a good size and very nice, especially the fruit tart. A slight grumble would be that the macaron was more biscuit like than chewy and soft in the centre as I was expecting. All in all we had a great time, the afternoon tea was enjoyable, the setting lovely and the service friendly and pleasant.

If you don't want to head off to London to enjoy an afternoon tea, then I highly recommend making a trip to West Lodge Park Hotel.

I give West Lodge Park Hotel  9/10 

Bob Bob Ricard Restaurant Review

The day after I booked a table for two at Bob Bob Ricard, an email dropped into my inbox from CNTraveller.com billing it as one of the 12 most romantic restaurants in London. I had been wanting to go to BBR for years so it seemed apt that I used the excuse of our wedding anniversary as the occasion to go! Although, you most definitely don't need an occasion to visit, just go is my recommendation..

Bob Bob Ricard is the iconic Art Deco Soho restaurant serving a luxury English and Russian menu in London's most glamorous all-booth dining room. Famous for its 'Press for Champagne' button at every table, the restaurant boasts the accolade of pouring more Champagne than any other restaurant in the UK!

Despite it being famous for its Champagne, neither my husband or I had any. I know! The tall blonde one had a glass of red wine and I opted for an Espresso Martini. We also skipped the sub zero Vodka shots but we will have them next time we go!

The Espresso Martini was an ideal accompaniment to my meal, smooth froth with the perfect amount of alcoholic content.

Bob Bob Ricard's decor is plush and decadent and the booths offer privacy and comfort. Perfect indeed.

Service was faultless. Friendly and attentive. The atmosphere in the restaurant was buzzy for a Saturday afternoon and everyone seemed to be having a good time.

The tall blonde one had a starter which he very kindly let me share ... it was absolutely delicious and was demolished in seconds. Creamy avocado, soft, tasty crab and refreshing salad, with a dressing to die for. One of the best starters we have ever eaten.

Crab with Chilli & Avocado

For mains I couldn't resist ordering the Chicken Kiev served with creamed corn. As the tall blonde is dairy free it's a rare treat to have something like this and it didn't disappoint. Moist chicken filled with buttery moreishness and sweet creamed corn.

 The tall blonde one opted for the Pavé steak with Peppercorn & Brandy Sauce and we ordered a side order of Fries to share.

Of course I could squeeze in one of their famous desserts...

The tall blonde one chose Le Colonel - Lemon sorbet with Russian Standard Platinum Vodka

While I ummed and aahed over whether to have the BBR Signature Chocolate Glory or the Flaming Crème Brûlée - The Crème Brûlée won :) thus now I need to return to try my other choice - ha ha .

Now remember I mentioned how fab the service was .... well a waiter brought my flaming dessert to the table but the flame went out almost immediately... our original waiter saw the disappointment on my face and relit it so I could video it and share it on my insta stories - now that's what I call service ;-)

My long awaited visit to Bob Bob Ricard lived up to its expectations and more - we fully intend to make another visit and enjoy some of the rest of the menu... Personally, I cannot wait!

Bob Bob Ricard gets a 10/10

By Invitation Rose Gold Michael Bublé EDP Review

If an invitation from Michael Bublé hits your mailbox, of course you say yes!

I do enjoy discovering new scents, and as luck would have it, I had just finished the perfume I was using when I was asked if I would like to try the new EDP from Michael Bublé - By Invitation Rose Gold. 

The bottle is identical to the original except for the fact it is in a stunning and bang on trend rose gold shade. If it works, and it does, there is no need to deviate. It's a lovely bottle that has the all important shelf appeal so that ticks the at first glance box.

So how about the fragrance, because let's be honest, we are not going to be wearing the bottle... ?

The fragrance is described as a floral oriental gourmand.

Michael Bublé says 

Starting with sophisticated top notes of radiant magnolia, red fruits and Granit pear, By Invitation Rose Gold has the tenderness of a rose and peony heart, with a hint of black plum. With a lingering praline and vanilla base – and just a touch of precious spice – the fragrance is charming and elegant.

At a glance -

Top notes - Red fruits, Magnolia and Granit Pear 
Heart notes - Rose, Peony & Plum 
Base notes - Vanilla, Praline & a touch of Spice 

My thoughts 

I can see this appealing to all ages. As soon as you spray, the perfume is bursting with sparkly fruit notes which are blended beautifully with floral tones. The gourmand aspect and added sweetness, is provided by the delicious vanilla which I detected instantly. As it dries down, it fades into a most delightful, lingering and addictive fragrance, with the praline and spice preventing the sweetness taking over and becoming cloying.

The result is a warm, sweet scent that is sophisticated, utterly feminine and ultimately, seductive. A perfect date night perfume.

By Invitation Rose Gold Michael Bublé EDP  - £29 for 30ml and £55 for 100ml. Available from www.michaelbubleperfume.com and The Perfume Shop. 

*PR Sample 

Hawksmoor Guildhall - Steak & Seafood Restaurant Review

When I got the opportunity to have a date night with my lovely husband (the tall blonde one) I seized the chance! I had been yearning to go to Hawksmoor, billed as London's best steak for a long time but various life events have meant that it had been put on the back burner, but, in February we finally got round to booking a table. I have to say my expectations were high and Hawksmoor had a lot to live up to.

Date Night Outfit

I emerged from Bank tube station on a dark, wet, evening and a big smile was there waiting to greet me.. yes the tall blonde one had come straight from the office, in his gorgeous blue suit and looked suitable sauve and dare I say it... sexy! The evening was ours and we were going to make the most of enjoying a peaceful meal without young fingers trying to grab at our meals, we were child free ...woo! 

We made the short walk to Hawksmoor Guildhall, excellent location if I do say so! and were soon whisked to our seats. The waitress was very friendly and service was most definitely with a smile. As we had booked an early sitting the vast room was virtually empty but by the time the food arrived at our table the restaurant was filling up nicely. The air was filled with a pleasant, buzzy atmosphere. As it is located in the heart of the City, there were a lot of business people dining out, but equally there was a nice mix of young and old, friends and couples on dates, all enjoying their meals. Trust me, I am a people watcher and made notes, lol. 

I had asked a few people for some recommendations prior to going and having already perused the menu I knew exactly what I wanted. 

I skipped the starters and ordered the following 

300g Rump Steak cooked medium to well done

Creamed Spinach side 

Triple Cooked Chips side 

Onion Rings 

A Marmalade Cocktail 

The Marmalade cocktail was a perfect choice. (A recommendation from friends) it was fruity and tangy but on the right side of bitter and wonderfully refreshing, slipping down my throat a litte too easily...I would order this again. 

The tall blonde one chose the following ( the onion rings we shared) 

400g Sirloin Steak done medium 

Buttered English Greens (without the butter!)

And another portion of the famous Triple Cooked Chips 

Washed down with a beer  - Kernel London Porter

A jug of water was also brought to the table for the meal. 

What can I say? 

My steak was cooked to perfection, it literally melted in my mouth. The chips were crisp on the outside and fluffy inside. In hindsight we over ordered and just one portion of chips between the two of us would have been sufficient. The onion rings were delicious, but my top recommendation is actually the creamed spinach. I was a bit nervous at ordering it as I do not like spinach. Well it turns out, it is all about the way it is cooked. The spinach was creamy, smooth and ever so slightly sweet. I devoured the whole serving, it was just too moreish to leave. Incredible. 

Once we had finished we were offered the dessert menu and whilst there were many options of temptation I knew it could quite possibly send me over the edge of feeling full to feeling more than full. As we had a tube journey to make, I chose to go with a friend's recommendation,  the lighter option - The Salted Caramel Rolos 

Crisp dark chocolate encasing a rich, sweet and delicious caramel with a salty bite to it. These were so good and a perfect way to end the meal. Even better, I held back on finishing my cocktail and sipped after a bite of chocolate made it taste like chocolate orange which I love! 

We had an absolute blast, conversation and laughter flowed and the food satisfied us immensely. We will be back. 

CHEERS! 

Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray Matte - Review

I'm back!

Back with some beauty reviews that is, I have some fabulous products coming up that I am simply itching to share with you.

First up is the Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray Matte

Product claims  - 

Stay selfie ready with Primed & Ready make up fixing spray. The lightweight mist will help prolong make-up wear for a natural matte finish.

My thoughts 

I was actually blown away by how effective this fixing spray is and it is such good value!

Does exactly what it promises. You must close your eyes before spraying at a distance of 10cm. At first makeup looks fresh and dewy, that will be because it is damp ;) but then for the rest of the day your makeup will stay perfectly in place and as fresh as the minute you applied it. When I do the school run I normally have to reapply my cheek products and sometimes my foundation for the afternoon school run. I apply my makeup at 7.30am. The first time I used the Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray I was amazed, upon checking the mirror at 2.30pm, that my makeup was still exactly as I had applied it in the morning.

This is a revelation and I won't go a day without using it now!!

10/10

Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray Matte costs £5.99 from Superdrug

*PR Sample 

Afternoon Tea At The Ritz - Review

Having Afternoon Tea is one of my favourite things as regular readers of BeautySwot.com well know, so I was absolutely delighted to find that one of my birthday gifts was Afternoon Tea for Two at The Ritz.

Being The Ritz, we had to book a couple of months in advance and even then one of the few slots we were able to get was the last sitting on a Monday afternoon. So, in early September, off we went all dressed up, the tall blonde one in his suit and tie, me in a little black dress and patent heels, ready to enjoy the sumptuous treat awaiting us.

The first thing to note was the delightful, cheerful and friendly doorman who greeted us on our arrival. It really is the little touches that put a smile on your face. We made our way to the Palm Court where Afternoon Tea is served, and were shown to our table - you can see just how exquisite a setting it is from the photo above.

It was then time to choose our teas to accompany the Traditional Afternoon Tea -

I opted for the 'house' tea - The Ritz Royal English and after the sandwiches I tried The Rose Congou to enjoy with my scones and cakes - both equally delicious and delicate, neither needing milk or sugar to enjoy.

We had advised, when booking, that one of the party was dairy free and they brought separate sandwiches for the blonde one and explained the difference.

There was nothing surprising about the sandwich fillings on reading the menu, the offering pretty standard, but the colourful array of sandwiches were fresh, generously sized and decidedly moreish so we enjoyed a second serving!

Ham with Grain Mustard Mayonnaise on Sliced Brioche 
Cheddar Cheese with Chutney on Tomato Bread 
Cucumber with Cream Cheese, Dill and Chives on Granary Bread 
Chicken Breast with Parsley Cream on Malt Bread 
Scottish Smoked Salmon with Lemon Butter on Sourdough Bread 
Egg Mayonnaise with Chopped Shallots and Watercress on White Bread

These were then followed up by -

Freshly Baked Raisin and Plain Scones with Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry Preserve Assortment of British Afternoon Tea Pastries and Cake

The scones were served warm and the blonde one received a separate dairy free batch which he said were most delicious. He was also brought his own separate plate of pastries which he appreciated and endlessly gushed about how tasty it all was... I couldn't disagree, the sweets were bitesize and the perfect balance of sweetness, fruitiness and a satisfying chocolate/coffee hit. I did enjoy the alcohol laced profiterole which was light and fluffy and creamy on the inside ...mmmm! These all really hit the spot. Just when we felt we could eat no more, a waiter came around with a cake trolley offering a slice of cake, well who were we to say no.... I enjoyed the exotic fruit sponge, foregoing the chocolate one and one final time they offered the blonde one a dairy free option.

Afternoon Tea is deceptively filling, best enjoyed on an empty stomach. We had two waiters during the afternoon and found the service to be attentive and friendly throughout.

We really enjoyed our afternoon at The Ritz. The Afternoon Tea was exceptional, it was leisurely, relaxing and The Palm Court was wonderfully opulent but not at all stuffy. The guests ranged from young to old, parties of women, couples and families, all appearing to enjoy this very traditional British pastime.

I have heard that some guests feel rushed at The Ritz ( bookings are allocated 90 minutes, which I feel is ample time) but this could be at busier and more popular times of the year and times in the afternoon. We certainly didn't feel rushed and the last setting of the day was a good choice as it served as dinner for us.

Before leaving we were given a book about Afternoon Tea and I couldn't resist having my photo taken with the pianist who had been playing live music throughout.

Chloe Love Story EDP - Perfume Review

A perfume with a Love Story behind it and pleasingly it is a beautiful perfume to fall in love with...

Chloe's Love Story is inspired by Parisian romance and the love padlocks on the bridge of the Pont des Arts the bottle design makes this reference, although since the perfume was launched the authorities have had to remove the love padlocks from the bridge due to safety issues.

Love Story is a floral scent that features notes of Orange Blossom, Neroli and Jasmine from Madagascar. 

Now I am not a huge fan of overly floral fragrances so I wasn't sure if this was going to be my thing but I was pleasantly surprised. The result of the blend of notes is a fresh floral scent that is incredibly wearable for day. Not cloying, not overly strong but romantic,  pretty and noticeable. I mean why wear a fragrance that no one notices?

Chloe Love Story EDP costs £47 for 30ml

spa London York Hall Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual Treatment Review

A couple of week's ago I headed up the Central Line to Bethnal Green for a treatment at day spa - spa London York Hall. Billed as an affordable luxury spa I was curious as to whether it would live up to my high expectation.

Located a very short walk from Bethnal Green Tube, York Hall is a grand old building that houses the local swimming baths and the Oasis that is spa London, downstairs. I went along with my husband to try out the new VIP Double Suite but you can go with a friend if you prefer.

Once downstairs we were greeted by the friendly receptionist who asked as to fill a form with a few details (this is the norm before having treatments) and then we were handed a bag with a robe and towel. We swapped our shoes for flip flops, being a teeny shoe size mine were a little on the large side but no matter. We were shown to the changing rooms and put on our swimwear. At spa London there are days when it is women only, men only and mixed which personally I think is a really nice touch. It does mean that they do sometimes flip the changing rooms depending on requirement. The ladies on this occasion was the small changing room. I would have preferred that there were closed rooms to get changing in.

Once back out we were greeted by one of our therapists who showed us around the Thermal Spa facilities and said we could use them before our treatment. I strongly recommend going a bit earlier than your treatment appt so that you can enjoy the rather fabulous facilities, unfortunately we didn't have time to try them before and we had to dash off after.

Set in London's oldest Turkish baths, it boasts the following facilities - two Aroma Steam Rooms, Tepidarium, Caldarium, Laconium, Sauna, Ice Fountain, Monsoon Shower, Hammam, Plunge Pool, Bucket Shower and Relaxation Lounge. Some of these I have to be honest looked like instruments of torture, however the husband is keen to go back and experience them.

We did have a short sit in the Hammam and Relaxation Lounge which was incredibly relaxing.

It was time for our treatment - spa London's Signature Treatment - Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual. We were led to the VIP Double Suite and asked to get changed into the obligatory paper knickers (for me) and paper shorts (for him). My knickers were the teeniest of thongs!

The therapists run through the treatment we were going to get. I was a bit disappointed when she didn't mention the head and scalp massage, so I asked whether it was included and she admitted she had forgot! However we did get the full treatment promised which comprised of the following -

A deluxe treatment inspired by Cleopatra’s bathing ritual thought to have preserved her youthful beauty! It involves a full body wash and scrub to deeply cleanse body and soul before a luscious milk and honey mixture is poured onto the body and a nourishing hair treatment coats the head and scalp. Whilst the goodness sinks in, a face and scalp massage is performed sending you into a hypnotic state. You are then veiled in a mist of rose and orange blossom before a milk application massage is given.

My thoughts 

Being washed and then scrubbed in preparation for the treatment was invigorating and not too harsh which I was fully expecting it to be. The milk and honey mixture was poured onto the body, it smelt divine and was lovely and warming. I enjoyed this a lot. The face and scalp massage was quite honestly one of the best things I have ever experienced, it was so gentle and relaxing that I am pretty sure that I fell asleep! 

We then had a shower to wash off the mixture and this was just gorgeous as my skin, at this point, was already feeling silky soft. We got to choose which milk application we wanted to be used on us and both opted for the Green Tea & Ginger which smelt so wonderful, uplifting and refreshing.The veil of mist, Rose & Orange Blossom smelt so good, I want to buy it! (I meant to ask what it was) This was used twice during our treatment and really was exceptionally sublime a scent. 

We both absolutely loved our treatment, the feeling of relaxation and well being lasted the whole day. The massage so good and the whole experience; location, cleanliness and facilities I give a huge 5 stars. My skin was left super smooth, ready for Summer. Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual is a fabulous way to kick start Summer Skin or just completely escape from the stresses of life. I was scrubbed, buffed and moisturised to perfection. 

We are planning a return visit very soon!

spa London York Hall Cleopatra's Milk & Honey Ritual costs an extremely reasonable £59 per person and lasts 50 minutes. 

*We were guests of spa London

Pukka Vanilla Chai Tea Review

My appetite for Chai Teas hasn't abated so last week I was perusing the tea aisle and came across Vanilla Chai from Pukka Organic Teas which promptly found its way into my shopping basket.

Pukka say 

A caffeine-free cup of fairly-traded sweet organic vanilla tingling with cinnamon and ginger – climb on her back, she’s ready to lift you up: a fairly-traded magic carpet of sweet organic vanilla tingling with cinnamon and ginger – and tender with cardamom, fennel and licorice.

There’s no caffeine here, just six herbs bristling with energy. So heat some water and off you go - an aromatic sensation in a cup.

My thoughts 

I liked the fact that that was caffeine free and I was looking forward to trying it out. I am pleased to report that this tea lives up to expectations. It has the perfect mix of sweet and spice, there is a real kick in its spice and it is heavy on the cinnamon flavour which I really like. I think it is a great tea to drink anytime of day as it is caffeine free. I have to be honest and say that I don't really detect the vanilla in the cup but no matter this doesn't ruin the enjoying of the tea in any way.

I have tried it with just hot water as per the instructions but have also tried it with milk for a traditional style chai latte and it works both ways. For simplicity it is fine with just hot water and packed with flavour. This isn't one of your wishy washy herbal teas, this is a full impact tea.

Does anyone remember Dentyne Chewing Gum? I haven't had it for years but Vanilla Chai is like drinking liquid Dentyne. So nice!

Pukka Vanilla Chai comes in a box of 20 individually wrapped bags 

Cheryl StormFlower Eau de Parfum Review

StormFlower is Cheryl's debut fragrance and available in EDT and EDP versions. The sample I have is the EDP version and I have to say I was really pleasantly surprised by this celebrity fragrance.

Launched in 2014 this perfume has been created to capture the many facets of Cheryl's personality  - the result is a luminous, hypnotic and uplifting perfume.

Notes 

Top notes - Mandarine, Nectarine
Heart notes - Freesia, Peach Blossom
Base notes - Vanilla, White Musk & Sandalwood

My thoughts

This scent is a fresh citrus and fruity floral that does indeed make me smile when I wear it, bursting with fun and just enough sweetness to lift it to delicious levels but not overly so to make it cloying. The dry down is lovely too, fading to a warmth that is appealing, I really like this celebrity release and admit to finding it a little bit addictive. A gorgeous floral scent that will appeal to all ages. Oh and the bottle with its flower lid is gorgeous to boot. Honestly though, I wouldn't expect anything less from the divine Cheryl.

Cheryl StormFlower 30ml costs £23.95

Magic Minerals by Jerome Alexander Review

I am a liquid foundation kind of girl no doubt about it but I was suitably impressed by the mineral foundation - Magic Minerals by Jerome Alexander 

The compact is sturdy, it comes complete with a stubby brush to apply the powder with and a blending sponge and there is a mirror inside the compact too.

Any concerns I had about the powder being too dark for me were allayed as soon as I tried the product. It is a great universal shade. It promises to be a foundation, corrector and concealer in one.

It also contains some random spots of colour which actually have a purpose as opposed to just being fun to look at.

Pink - brightens and gives a healthy glow
Mint - reduces redness and covers breakouts
Yellow - conceals dark circles and uneven skin-tone
Lavender - corrects sallow complexions.

Magic Minerals say 

Magic Minerals covers, conceals and corrects all at once for a flawless look. This ultra-fine micronized mineral powder is so smooth and light it naturally diminishes the appearance of age spots, dark circles and uneven skin-tone without caking or getting caught in wrinkles.

Benefits 

Hypoallergenic
Natural SPF
No Irritants
Fragrance free
Lasts up to 12 hours

My thoughts 

As I said above, I was suitably impressed by this mineral powder. It went on smoothly and blended nicely for an (almost!) flawless look. I had one particular stubborn blemish that refused to be hidden...

However, my redness on the inner cheeks was covered, skin-tone was evened out and there was not a trace of powderiness which I was pleased about. It also left my skin looking bright and it lasted. If you like mineral powders I highly recommend it.

Magic Minerals costs £9.99 

*PR Sample

Drink Me Chai Latte Skinny Blend - Review

If you read BeautySwot.com regularly you will know that am I huge fan of Chai Lattes, so when I saw this trial sachet in the Waitrose magazine I, of course, had to try it out!

Drink Me Chai Latte Skinny Blend - A sweetened blend of tea, skimmed milk and spices.

Contains 30% less sugar and fat.

99% caffeine free
Suitable for lacto vegetarians

Drink Me say

This new blend of chai is a lighter, everyday recipe for those who like there Chai fresher tasting with a bit of a spice kick.

Containing just 62 calories per cup if made with water.

My thoughts 

This is a powder blend that you mix with hot water, personally I prefer my chai lattes creamier so I mixed the powder with half a latte glass of hot water, I then topped this up with frothy hot milk (made with my milk frother)

The result was an utterly delicious and balanced sweet and spicy chai latte, great for enjoying in the comfort of your own home.

I give this a big thumbs up

Drink Me Chai Latte Skinny Blend costs £2.50 for a tin

Gin-inspired Afternoon Tea at TwoRuba for Mother's Day

Next Sunday the 15th March is Mother's Day or Mothering Sunday to give it its full title... If you were wondering how to treat your mum on this occasion let me introduce you to the Gin-Inspired Afternoon Tea at the Tower Bridge Bar & Lounge - TwoRuba. 

Yesterday I got to try it out for myself and I have to say it was really rather nice!

We were shown to our table which featured comfortable high backed chairs and a small black round table, sat back and relaxed. The atmosphere was chilled, we really liked the ambient music playing in the background. The clientele on the day was a mix of business people and those who were, like us, visiting for pleasure.

This Afternoon Tea starts with a delightful Mother's Ruin cocktail which is made from Plymouth Gin, a touch of Vermouth, grapefruit juice and Champagne. The cocktail tastes zesty and refreshing, and is of course presented beautifully with a dried lemon garnish.

This is followed by a traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones and sweet cakes.

There were three sandwiches each which at first we thought wasn't going to be enough but actually was plentiful as by the end of the afternoon tea we were very full!

The triangular cut sandwiches were extremely tasty and full of flavour with non traditional afternoon tea fillings.

Chorizo roasted, red pepper, mayonnaise and rocket 
Hummus, roasted courgette, tabouleh and baby spinach 
Smoked salmon, red onion, capers and watercress

The raisin scones were some of the best I have ever tasted and exactly how I like them. They were of a generous size, crispy on the outside and perfectly moist and composed inside. Absolutely delicious and moreish.

And finally the third course of sweet treats featured miniature desserts

A mouthwatering chocolate and nut brownie
Sweet Macarons in lemon and pistachio flavours
Melt in your mouth French Fancies
Bitesize Victoria Sponge

There was two of each cake and there was a little addition of some fresh fruit which ended Afternoon Two nicely.

To accompany our Afternoon Tea my companion drank English Breakfast Tea, I chose Assam and also tried a Mango & Strawberry fruit tea. They were all good but the Assam was a stand out for me.

The service was friendly and we found the staff to be helpful.

For a relaxed and laidback Mother's Day treat I would highly recommend it.  We are already planning to return to TwoRuba to try out the Espresso Martinis!

The Gin-inspired Afternoon Tea at TwoRuba is only available on the 14th & 15th March 12-5pm and costs £31 per person.

Alternatively why not just pop in for the Mother's Day Ruin Cocktail which is also available 14th-15th March for £11.

TwoRuba
Hilton London Tower Bridge
5 More London Place
Tooley Street
London
SE1 2BY
T: 020 3002 4407
E: info@tworuba.com
*I was a guest of TwoRuba