The excitement of Christmas never really goes away as we grow up, which is why we want to share all the lovely presents we received this year.
Beauty
Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish -With all the hype surrounding this product I've been itching to get my hands on some. My Mum was ever so kind and bought my first bottle for me, which came with two muslin cloths. Before I was introduced to cleansers I always used to use makeup wipes, but had no idea how terrible they can be for your skin because of the alcohol content. I've used the cleanse and polish a few times already and love it so far! The consistency is quite thick and it removes all my makeup without having to wake up with damn panda eyes.
GOSH eyeshadow crayon - I've been on the hunt for cheaper dupes to Charlotte Tilbury's eyeshadow pencils and MAC paint pots, so I found this gem in Superdrug! It was actually a small Christmas present to myself (because why the hell not) and I plan to wear it on new years eve for some sparkle.
REN Moisturising Day & Night cream - Living up north combined with the cold, the stress of uni and the nights out were not doing wonders for my skin. So, last christmas was my first time asking for 'grown up' products. I was yet to delve into the whole 'skincare' world and so wasn't particularly sure what to ask for. My mum thoughtfully provided me with a collection of mini products to try out. Out of them all, (Clinique, korres, simple...) I discovered my skin responded wonderfully to REN, and so this Christmas invested in full sized day and night cream. Not too cheap, but definitely worth the price if you have normal-dry skin and want something light, soft and instantly illuminating!
Urban Decay, Naked Palette - Watching endless youtube videos on makeup tags/hauls/tutorials I've constantly seen this lil' fella popping up: The Urban Decay Naked Pallette. Not being one to spend too much on makeup and knowing my 'smokey eye' ends up looking like I've just been in a catfight, I wasn't convinced. However, discovering my drugstore eyeshadows practically fell off my eyelid after an hour, I decided maybe expensive eyeshadow is worth the hype - and I wasn't let down. The colours are gorgeous and simply glide onto your eye with an impressive stand out shade.
NARS Sheer Glow- I'm a firm believer of the view that if you're going to invest in high end makeup, a foundation is a must. Personally, I've always been loyal to Laura Mercier, having found the exact tone for my skin and enjoying its coverage. When it ran out just before the holidays, I decided to become a traitor and give into NARS. So far, I definitely do understand the obsession, but not sure if it will forever keep me away from Mercier's clutch.
Marc Jacobs, Daisy Every year i'm provided with a perfume and this is one of my absolute faves!
Homeware
Copper drinking jug - My mum saw me obsess over this jug when we were out shopping one day and must've bought it while I wasn't looking (cheeky). I've noticed I don't drink enough water some days, so my theory is that if I have something nice to drink out of it'll make me want to drink more. Hopefully it works!
Diptyque candle - My lovely other half got me this candle from Diptyque which smells ah-mazing. I've wanted one for ages, but could never justify buying one for myself. The packaging and jar is also stunning - can't wait to burn this baby.
Other bits and bobs
The Collected Works of Oscar Wilde - A good friend of mine knows how much I love The Picture of Dorian Gray, so bought me Wilde's whole collection! I've been wanting to read of his other work, so now I have the perfect reason to.
COACH purse - A cute surprise gift from my stepmum. Thought the colours were absolutely gorgeous and will be using lots in the spring/summer time!
Topshop coat - I cheekily bought this jacket/glove combo while I was out shopping, but had to (reluctantly) pass it over to my mum until Christmas. I was immediately drawn to it and couldn't resist! This coat is something I don't have at all, and the faux fur lining will definitely keep me warm and cosy up' norrrth. Black Leather gloves are also a simple must, so elegant, classy and go with everything!