Good quality make-up brushes (and other stuff) on a student budget...

I thought I'd share a website I came across in my first year of Uni that sells 'all things make-up'. I felt like I had stumbled across a gold mine as all the make-up was so affordable! But I was looking for something specific - make-up brushes. I'd walked into boots previously that day and was shocked at how expensive the makeup brushes were (even Boots' own). Also went into Superdrug but found exactly the same thing. They were ranging from around £8 ($13) to a whopping £30 ($48) and as a student who looks after her pennies I was not prepared to pay this much!

All-over face brush £1.50
 (the one I purchased)

The website I found eyes, lips, face (e.l.f)  has the most fantastic array of products! The postage was quick and easy but not free. It doesn't really matter because I still got two make-up brushes for £5.95 (including P&P) which was fantastic.

I wasn't sure if the quality would be too great but the brushes were awesome. Felt really soft on my face. So a website I recommend highly for cheap, good quality make-up brushes. They also do sets of makeup brushes for amazingly reasonable prices so if you need to replace all your brushes, e.l.f is definitely the place to go. Obviously they aren't professional make-up artist brushes but I doubt any of us girls use those anyway! 

Large 'get the look' sets - £9 ($14.50)

Volumising mascara - £2.50 ($4)

False lashes (incl glue) - £1.50 ($2.40)

Lip stain - £2.50 ($4)

Therapeutic conditioning
 balm - £1.50 ($ 2.40)

Hypershine gloss - £1.50 ($2.40)


Most of the products come in an array of shades and colours to suit all skin tones; so cheap too! It's always a gamble going for the cheaper option as it could compromise the quality but judging by the make-up brushes, I'd be happy to purchase a gloss or two from this website! Have an explore and see for yourself :)

Love Dorothy xxx

P.S. They also do great make-up gift sets, perfect for Christmas ;)



Images taken from eyeslipsface.co.uk

Shellac vs Nail Polish

CND's amazing array of shellac colours, I had mine done in
 Gelcolour by O.P.I

I used to paint my nails about three to four times a week so that they wouldn't chip...which seems a bit excessive! Sometimes it's nice just to have nails that are strong and glossy all the time. I'd heard about shellac  but wasn't sure whether to try it.

Shellac is a gel based polish that is solidified by UV light after every coat. It creates a thick and glossy sheen on the nails and makes them practically indestructible (within reason). They are instantly dry so no smudging or chipping.

Just had mine done in "Cajun Shrimp"

The first time I had shellac done it cost about £25 ($40) after student discount as it was £30 before. It seems like a lot but the shellac actually lasted for two and a half weeks. The reason I was sceptical was because I was working every day of the summer and thought my nails would chip straightaway; They didn't!! I was so pleased with them and they just looked fantastic.

Howeverrr I wasn't prepared to pay £5 to have shellac removed on top of the £25 to have them re-painted (no way) so I shopped around for a cheaper rate. I managed to find a lovely lady (owner of Carly's Beauty Therapy) who did them for £20 and £25 removal and re-paint. This was a local salon but search for some salons near you to see what's there.

Shellac comes in a gorgeous array of colours. I've tried...

• "Princesses Rule" - a shimmery candy pink that lasts even longer as it's less noticeable when it grows out.

• "Cajun Shrimp" - see photo! a beautiful, vibrant, coral red. 

Dorothy's Tips:

• Always shop around for the best prices.
• Try and get a student discount (every little helps ladies!)
• Ask friends and family if they've had theirs done and where. They may have found a shellac genius ;)
• Don't attempt to remove shellac yourself. It can be done but I recommend going to a professional so that your nails don't get ruined. 

Enjoy!

Dorothy xxx

Why am I blogging?

There's a lot of things in life that I've learnt from others. Other things I've learnt for myself through various experiences. I'm writing my first Blog to share my findings about little lady things such as make-up, fashion and day to day events. I will probably end up rambling about what I watched last night or what I ate for dinner but I mainly strive to enlighten you with some high street bargains, make-up tips or anything that I think is worth informing you of! As a student, you aren't always rolling in money but there are ways of looking like a gorgeous little lady on a student budget! Hopefully I'll find some awesome stuff along the way.

Dorothy xxx

P.S. I'm an English Language student in my second year of University. I'm just like most girls who like a bit of make-up & fashion!