Let's Talk Mental Health... *GASP*

Hello lovelies,

I hope you've all been well and had a lovely weekend. So this week I've decided to do something a little different and instead of focusing on outer beauty, I'm going to be writing more about inner beauty, I guess you could say. Now I know this isn't going to be everyone's cup of tea, so I completely understand if you're not interested, but I just felt as though it was important for me to address these issues and hopefully I can contribute a little bit to reducing the stigma. As I haven't really planned how I'm going to discuss this, I may end up rambling a little, so just bare with me : )

I wasn't too sure whether writing this would be a good idea or not, because I know it is quite a touchy subject, but I just wanted others out there to understand that - though you may sometimes feel it- you are not alone and there are plenty of others going through similar experiences just like you and people who are able to help you.

The idea of talking about mental health as a whole came to me, when the incredibly sad news broke not to long ago about TV personality Charlotte Dawson taking her own life. Her struggle with depression and on line bullies has been well documented and it just goes to show that just because someone may seem as though they have it all - amazing career, house, cars, etc - doesn't mean they are necessarily happy on the inside.

Currently there's probably less than 10 people that know this about me, but while on the topic of mental health I thought it was only fair that I share my experience. I suffer from both depression and anxiety and have done for quite a while. At first I guess I would say I was quite embarrassed to admit it or tell people what was wrong, but I quickly got over that when I began to realise how sick and tired I was - and still am - of the stigma and taboo that surrounds mental health. I felt as though if people found out, they'd treat me differently or as though I was unstable, but I came to realise that was their problem and not mine and I shouldn't be ashamed of what I was going through

I know that there are many of people who may be against taking medication to treat mental illness and also may not feel comfortable talking with a trained professional about what you're going through. If you are wanting to try a more natural approach, there are many studies that have found exercise and healthy eating can play a massive role when it comes to mental health.

What I want others to realise is that it's okay not be okay, but also to realise that there is help out there and not to be ashamed to ask for it. I know it may not always feel like it, but things eventually will get better, maybe not tomorrow, maybe not the next day, but they will. Now by no means am I a trained professional, these are just my experiences and opinions. 

Yes, make-up and hair products and all things beauty, may make you feel beautiful on the outside, but we have to start making a change and helping ourselves and others to feel beautiful and happy on the inside as well.

Below I've added some links to organisation that you're able to reach out to and receive help. This may not necessarily be for yourself, but maybe for a sibling, friend or parent.

Beyond Blue: http://www.beyondblue.org.au/
The Butterfly Foundation: http://thebutterflyfoundation.org.au/
Lifeline: https://www.lifeline.org.au/


I hope this post has been somewhat beneficial to you and been able to assist you in some way. Have an incredible rest of the week and weekend and I'll see you guys next Wednesday.
P.S Let me know if there are any specific things you'd like to see in the coming weeks i.e.. Make-up tutorials, skin care, hair tutorials, etc. :)


Veroniieecar xx : )

Currently Coveting #1

Hello Lovelies,

When it came time to writing this weeks blog post, I was trying to come up with some ideas on what I could write about. I don't know about you, but I personally love finding out about things that others are currently loving or wanting, whether it be beauty, clothing, TV series they're watching, anything ! So I decided to put together a little collection of things I'm "Currently Coveting". I'm thinking about making this into a monthly series and each month post a bunch of new items. So without further ado, let's jump straight into it!

TopShop Lipstick in Inhibition. I'll admit I haven't always been the biggest fan of dark plum/berry lipsticks, but I have always loved seeing them on others. I used to think I was far too pale to be able to pull them off without ending up looking a little gothic or vampy, and always just stuck to my trusty reds and pinks. I'd probably have to put it down to one of my gorgeous best friends - Tiara - who, like me, lives on the paler side of life. I always envied how gorgeous dark hue lipsticks looked on her, so one day I bite the bullet and bought one and have never looked back. After finding this gorgeous lipstick from TopShop, I definitely need to get my hands on it for Autumn and Winter.

Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette. Personally, I think this item is pretty self explanatory. I can't even begin to describe how much I love the array of 12 different colours in this palette. I'm still trying to figure out a way of justifying spending $50+ on an eye shadow palette, but you can never have too many eye shadow palettes... Right ? Plus it comes in a stunning rose gold tin case.

Nars Highlighter in Copacabana. Now, by no means is this a new product, but I've recently become very fond of using a cream highlighter to add a a gorgeous glow to my skin. Now that cooler weather is on it's way, I much prefer to use creamy products then powders, as the skin will naturally become drier, so I love the dewy and healthy look that cream products give to the skin.

Miss Selfridge Black Felt Fedora. I don't think there is anything more annoying than when you've put effort into styling your hair and suddenly it's ruined by gale force winds and torrential downpours - Okay maybe that's a little extreme - but I love the idea of just being able to put on a super chic hat and not have to worry about whether your hair is turning into a big frizzy birds nest. I love this one from Miss Selfridge with the added ribbon, as I think it jazz's it up a little.

Yankee Candle in Vanilla Cupcake. I am a sucker for anything that is fragrant or smelly - in a nice way. After hearing about Yankee Candles from all over the internet, I recently discovered that they are stocked in Spotlight. I was originally worried I'd have to order then on line and just hope that the fragrances I was choosing would turn out as lovely as they sounded, but thankfully I am able to go in store and purchase them in person. The Yankee Candle's range from $3.99 to $49.95 depending on what size candle you're wanting to purchase. And who wouldn't want their house smelling like a vanilla cupcake all year round ?!

Alexa Chung "It". when it comes to reading, you're probably almost never going to find me tucked away in a corner or comfy chair reading a novel - unless it's an incredible one - but I definitely do have my fair share of beauty books. So when I heard that Alexa Chung was bringing out a book of her own, I couldn't contain my excitement. I haven't been able to find it in local book stores - maybe I'm not looking hard enough, maybe they just don't stock it - but I have definitely decided that I need to jump on line or get my hands on it pronto !

Asos Brady Low Rise Slim Boyfriend Jeans - I've always been a lover of just your average high waisted blue skinny jeans, because I love how versatile they are.They can be worn like regular mid or low rise jeans, plus they can also be worn with a super cute tucked in blouse or top. I have recently though, discovered my love of boyfriend jeans, it may be because I recently stumbled upon some images of Kim Kardashian rocking them - don't judge me - or it may just be the comfy but still chic look that they give. I am definitely still a little hesitant on buying a pair, as I am unsure as to how they'd sit on me, but all-in-all I love the trend.

Essie Nail Polish in Wicked. Now that I can finally say I'm not a nail biter - fingers crossed - I love to have my nails painted, as I no longer have my short stubby ugly nails that I was once incredibly embarrassed about. Just as I have fallen madly in love with dark hue lipsticks, same goes for nail polishes. Lately I have been wearing O.P.I's "Casino Royale" from their Skyfall collection - which you can find a photo of on my Instagram, but I definitely think "Wicked" will be one nail polish that needs to be added to my collection

The Tudors Season 4. I know I am EXTREMELY late jumping onto the band wagon, but I am so glad I finally have ! I - not so secretly - love documentaries and TV shows which are based on different times in history and could sit there for hours on end - which I previously have - and watch countless episodes. I had previously watched the BBC mini series "The White Queen" and loved it and thought I'd move on and begin watching The Tudors. So the other night when I had nothing to do, I decided to hop into bed and watch a few episodes that night. This then resulted in me watching 3 series of it, in only a matter of days - trust me, I am slightly ashamed to admit that. I am currently now up to Series 4, which I haven't begun yet though, as I am trying to stretch out the amazingness of the TV show a little longer - some how, I don't think I'll be able to hold off much longer. Did I also mention that Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Henry Cavill are in it ? Definitely give both TV Series a go if you haven't watched them and can also handle a little bit of blood and guts. 

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I hope you all enjoyed what I am "currently coveting" and maybe even stumbled upon a few things you'd like to check out. I'd love for you to leave me a comment below or on my social networking sights and let me know of some things you're lusting over at the moment.

Have an incredible rest of the week and I will speak to you all next Wednesday ! : )


Veroniieecar xx : )

Autumn/Winter Makeup Looks

Hello Lovelies,

I hope you've all been well and have been enjoying some relief from the scorching heat with a few cooler days - I know I have !

Though not everyday may feel like it, there is definitely no denying that Autumn is on it's way - well for the Southern Hemisphere, at least. So, I thought what better time than to do 2 Autumn/Winter make-up looks for you all. I've put together a classic Autumn berry lip, with a winged liner and a gorgeous Cara Delevingne inspired plum/taupe smokey eye with a pink/nude lip.

Look 1.

Classic Berry Lip and Winged Liner

Base

Foundation: Maybelline SuperStay - Classic Beige

Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser - Light

Powder: Australis Fresh & Flawless Pressed Powder - Darkest Brown

Bronzer: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder

Eyes

Eyebrows: Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil - 002 Hazel

Eyelid: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder (Through the crease)

Eyeliner: Maybelline Line Definer Liquid Eyeliner Pen 

Mascara: Essence "get BIG!" lashes volume boost

Lips

Lip Stick: Australis Colour Inject Mineral Lipstick - Can Can


Look 2.
Warm Taupe Smokey Eye

Base

 Foundation: Maybelline SuperStay - Classic Beige

Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser - Light

Powder: Australis Fresh & Flawless Pressed Powder - Darkest Brown

Bronzer: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder

Eyes

Eyebrows: Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil - 002 Hazel

Eyelid: Victoria Jackson Palette (see image above)

1. Shimmery Plum - Through the crease and outer "V" of the eye and the lower lash line

2. Shimmery Taupe - Over the entire eyelid, blending up into the crease colour

Eyeliner: Rimmel Soft Kohl Pencil - 061 Jet Black

- smudge on lower lash line, water line and tight line (top lid water line)

Mascara: Essence "get BIG!" lashes volume boost

Lips

Lip Stick: Australis Colour Inject Mineral Lipstick - Ballet

Rimmel Lasting Finish By Kate Lipstick - 26 (Layered on top)

I know these 2 looks definitely aren't for everyone, but you can always alter them to suit your makeup preferences - leave out the berry lip, tone down the smokey eye, etc. If you do recreate either of the 2 looks or have any questions on them, please feel free to leave me a comment below, or write to me on Twitter or Instagram and I now have FaceBook !

I also have an exciting announcement to make, which I would greatly appreciate all of your inputs on. I've come up with an idea to start a new blog series called "I Want Her Look" which I was planning on posting every Thursday and moving my regular blog post day to Tuesday. This blog series would include you guys sending me suggestions of singers, actresses, celebrities, etc, looks that you'd like to see me recreate, whether it's makeup, an outfit or both. If you guys would be interested in me doing this, let me know and I'll definitely do it :)

Veroniieecar xx : )

My Skin Saviour Products For Surviving Autumn/Winter Weather

Hello Lovelies,

As much as we may hate to admit it, March is already fast approaching, which means that so too is autumn for the Southern Hemisphere. This also means plenty of cold weather, rain, wind and of course, dry skin. There's nothing worse than in the middle of autumn and winter, when you're wanting to look your best, but all you can notice is your dry, cracked and flaky skin. So, to help you all out and let you in on some of my go-to tricks, I've  put together some of my staple cold weather beauty products and how I use them. Enjoy !

First off, is what I like to call my - "do-er of all things" - yes, I know that isn't a real word, but seriously, I can't see how I lived before using Coconut Oil. I get the "Spiral Organic Coconut Oil" from Woolworth's as it's organic and only $6.45. Not only is it a super healthy oil to cook with, it is also totally multi-purpose when it comes to your skin. I personally use it on everything - and I mean EVERYTHING - as a hair mask, a night time face moisturiser, a body oil, a hand moisturiser, the list goes on and on. It won't leave you feeling slick and greasy as you may assume, with the natural warmth of your skin, it immediately absorbs right in, leaving you with incredibly moisturised skin and a gorgeous glow. Coconut oil can be found at health food stores and your local supermarket.

Next up is the product I use for when I want a really intensive night time moisturiser, before I put my pyjamas on. I know it's called "Derma Mum" and aimed at pregnant women and stretch marks, but seriously, with the amount of different oils that are in this, it leaves your skin so supple and soft. It's super creamy texture means a lot goes a long way, so the massive tub lasts a very long time. The only down side to it, is I personally don't really like the smell. It's not overly offensive, but has that slight zinc cream smell, which does eventually go away.

I definitely don't think I'm the only girl who doesn't appreciate having dull and pale skin during winter, so to combat this, I use a gradual tanner, such as the Dove Summer Glow. It leaves your skin with a gorgeous looking glow, without it looking artificial and also has more of a nutty/cocoa butter smell instead of the typical self tanner smell. I also find, by incorporating a gradual tanner in with my Autumn/Winter skin care regime, it also reminds me to keep up with exfoliating my skin, so it removes all the dry, flaky skin and also keeps my tan looking fresh and smooth.

My 4th go-to product is a trusty tube of Paw-Paw Balm. This one from Natures Care is 100% natural and is also petrochemical free, which means it doesn't contain any nasty chemicals that are in Petroleum Jelly. Similar to the coconut oil, this too is a great all-rounder product. I use it for my hands, feet, body and lips. It's also great for giving a gorgeous shine to your skin on a night out, such as over your legs and arms. The handy thing about this specific product, is it comes in a compact 30g tube, which means it's perfect, for your handbag, car, desk, school locker, everywhere !

And finally, one of my most go-to lip balms would have to be the "Maybelline Baby Lips Loves Color" in Pink Lolita. The awesome thing about this lip balm is not only that it's moisturising to the lips, but it also gives a gorgeous hint of colour, which is perfect if you're not wanting to wear an actual lip-gloss or lipstick, but still wanting some colour on your lips. It promises to provide 6 hour hydration, though I can't really agree with that - as mine often wears off through the day - it definitely does provide your lips with plenty of moisture and doesn't leave them with that typical dry and chapped feeling once it's worn off, plus it also contains an SPF 16. If you're wanting to see what it looks like on the lip, I featured it in my previous post "Valentine's Day Makeup Looks"

I hope you all enjoyed my skin saviour products for surviving Autumn/Winter weather.

If there are any products you want to suggest, feel free to leave a comment below, or you can leave me a reply on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.

Also be sure to leave me requests or suggestions - below or on my social networking sites - for future posts you'd like to see : )

Veroniieecar xx : )

Valentine's Day Makeup Looks

Hello Lovelies,

I hope you are all looking forward to Friday, no matter what you are getting up to. I've put together 2 different make-up looks, which are interchangeable with each outfit that I posted last week. So, let's get into it !

Look 1.

Statement Red Lip and Winged Liner

Base

Foundation: L'oreal True Match - W4

Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser - Light

Powder: Australis Fresh & Flawless Pressed Powder - Darkest Brown

Bronzer: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder

Eyes

Eyebrows: MAC Eyeshadow - Mystery

Eyelid: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder (Through the crease)

Eyeliner: Maybelline Line Definer Liquid Eyeliner Pen - Amazing !

Mascara: Essence "get BIG!" lashes volume boost

Lips

Lipgloss: Velourlips Matte Cream - NY-CEE

Look 2.
Bronzed Glow

Base

Foundation: L'oreal True Match - W4

Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser - Light

Powder: Australis Fresh & Flawless Pressed Powder - Darkest Brown

Bronzer: Bourjois "Chocolate Bronzer" Bronzing Powder
Highlighter: Rimmel "Glam Eyes" HD in English Oak - Golden Highlighter (Nose Bridge, Cupid's Bow and top of the cheek bone)

Eyes

Eyebrows: MAC Eyeshadow - Mystery

Eyelid: Rimmel "Glam Eyes" HD in English Oak - Shimmery Cooper (Through the crease)

- Golden Highlighter (All over lid, inner corner and brow bone)

Mascara: Essence "get BIG!" lashes volume boost

Lips

Lip Balm: Maybelline Baby Lips "Loves Color" - Pink Lolita

I hope you guys enjoyed both the looks. Definitely have a play around with them and work out which colours and styles works best for you. Feel free to ask me any questions about the 2 looks - or any make-up looks - either leave a comment below, or write to me on Twitter or Instagram

If you haven't seen last weeks post, be sure to check out my valentines day outfit LookBook, for the perfect outfit suggestions. 

I hope each and every one of you have an incredible Valentine's Day and get spoilt rotten, by either a special someone or even yourself : )


Veroniieecar xx : )

Valentine's Day Outfit LookBook

Hello Lovelies,

It’s come to that time of the year again! Whether you’re lucky enough to have a special someone in your life or you've decided to make it a girl’s night out, everyone is in need of an incredible Valentine’s Day outfit.

I decided I’d mix things up a little and venture out into the world of fashion, so I've put together this little look book of 5 different outfits that cover all bases - even a cosy date night on the couch. Of course everyone’s fashion sense and body type is different, so feel free to put your own spin on these or pick pieces that are most flattering on you and just have fun with them. Each piece and the prices will be listed underneath the image. Hope you enjoy!

Chunky-knit Hollow Pullover Sweater, 34 AUD / Wet Seal Destroyed Roll Cuff Boyfriend Jean, 42 AUD / Pull&Bear High Heel Cut-Out Ankle Boots, 110 AUD / Steve Madden BTye Crossbody, 57 AUD / Triangle Drop Necklace, 36 AUD

Miss Selfridge Checked Monochrome Jumper, 57 AUD / TOPSHOP Texture Midi Tube Skirt, 45 AUD / FOREVER 21 Luxe Stiletto Sandals, 42 AUD / Black Boohoo asymmetric zip clutch bag, 54 AUD / Chunky Curb Chain Necklace, 39 AUD

White Crewneck T-Shirt, 12 AUD / River Island Grey floral print inverted collar blazer, 93 AUD / Jane Norman Essential Skinny Jeans, 56 AUD / JustFab Liora - Black, 63 AUD / Liz Claiborne Casey Small Satchel, 40 AUD / Gypsy 3-Tier Necklace, 17 AUD

Boohoo Eleanor Floral Belted Skater Dress, 51 AUD / H&M Denim jacket, 46 AUD / Rosanne Flats, 28 AUD / Liz Claiborne Eliza Satchel, 57 AUD / River Island Pink heart stud earrings, 11 AUD

Topshop cropped sweater, 40 AUD / John Lewis Olivia Pyjama Pant, 46 AUD / UGG AUSTRALIA, 180 AUD / ALDO Mourey ring, 14 AUD / C. Wonder Love Chain Necklace, 40 AUD

Stay tuned for next week where I'll be putting together some different make-up looks, to cover all your date night make-up needs. 

If there are any specific make-up looks you'd like to see, leave a comment below or on Instagram or Twitter :)

Veroniieecar xx :)

Beat the heat !

Hello Lovelies,

I recently received a request to do a post on how to minimise the effects that hot weather has on your make-up and given that Australia has been going through some crazy heat waves, I thought I better get onto it!

Now before I start let's be realistic, you're never going to keep your make-up 100% heat proof, but there are definitely ways to help minimise your face from becoming a slip and slide for your make-up products. So without further ado - or before we have another day of 40+ weather - let's get into it!

Below I've put together some heat proof make-up suggestions, for you guys to check out. I definitely recommend heading to your local Priceline/chemist - wherever you buy your make-up - and just have a look at the different products. If it states that it's "waterproof" then it's perfect for summer :)

NYX makeup, 17 AUD / Benefit makeup, 34 AUD / Maybelline tattoo eye shadow, 12 AUD / Topshop black eyeliner, 11 AUD / Garnier BB Cream 14 AUD / Maybelline The Falsies Volum’ Express Mascara, 20 AUD

Tip 1. Less is more. This rule definitely applies during summer, I recommend using a tinted moisturiser or a BB cream, instead of a foundation. This will help minimise the chances of your make-up becoming cakey, from the amount of powder you’ll often use throughout the day... If you're worried about the coverage, you can always go in with concealer afterwards, to hide any blemishes or dark circles you may have. Or if you're still uncomfortable about the idea of a sheer coverage, you can also mix a little moisturiser in with your regular foundation. My favourite is mixing in some of my regular day moisturiser with my Maybelline SuperStay foundation.

Tip 2. Blotting paper is your best friend. Any girl who has oily skin and has used blotting paper, will be able to tell you just how good this little thing is. Blotting paper will also help minimise the chances of your face becoming cakey, as you're absorbing the oil and sweat - lovely, isn't it? - into the paper, instead of just packing more and more powder on top of it.

Tip 3. Invest in waterproof mascara - if you don't have one already, as well as waterproof eyeliner. Waterproof products will contain a large amount of wax, which means it will create a water resistant barrier, meaning you won't have to fret about your mascara and eyeliner smudging down your face. Everyone knows unwanted raccoon eyes, are never cute. Plus as an added bonus, waterproof mascara will also hold the curl of your lashes for longer and it's perfect for the beach or the pool.

Tip 4. The one time we actually want something to stain. An incredible product that I don’t think is used enough is cheek and lip stains. With one tiny bottle, they double up as a blush and a lip tint, meaning you don't have to worry about a powdery looking blush, or a creamy formula smudging, as it will lightly stain the skin, so you know it will stay put. Same goes for your lips, you'll no longer have to worry about your pesky lipstick smudging over your lip line.

Tip 5. And last but not least, prime, prime, PRIME! When it comes to make-up, using primers are a key for keeping your make-up in place and creating a lovely base for anything you put on top of it. I suggest using a face primer as it will help minimise the chances of your foundation slipping and sliding, as well as an eye primer - such as the Maybelline eye studio (above) - this will not only create a smooth base and prevent creasing for any eyeshadow you place over, but the great thing is, you can also use it alone, as they come in a wide variety of gorgeous colours.

I hope these tips could help you in achieving a sweat proof make-up look. Feel free to leave me a comment below, or on Instagram or Twitter, if there are any other questions you have

Stay tuned for Thursday, where I'll be doing part 1 of 2 of a Valentine’s Day post :)

Veroniieecar xx :)