Jason Naturally Fresh Lip Balm SPF25

Going on Holiday is something that most of us look forward to. If you're anything like me, once a holiday is booked, it's all you can talk about, just ask my boyfriend! However, the run up to the holiday can be stressful due to getting all of your bits and bobs together, and it's important to make sure that you've got everything down to a T. 

One of the main things that I'm pretty sure not many people think of when they're going away is their lips. I

remember writing our "to buy" list with my boyfriend and when I mentioned SPF for my lips he looked at like I had gone mad. To me, SPF for lips is the second most important item in the suitcase after suncream. Without a lip protection, they burn. When I say burn, I don't mean your regular sun burn, I mean like blisters, cracks and peeling. Attractive. Unfortunately this has been passed down in my genes, thanks mum, and I always have to make sure that I have something to hand. 

Enter Jason Naturally Fresh Lip Balm. This little gem is just like a regular lip balm but with a little summin' extra. First of all, it's slightly waxy, which in any other lip product would be a big no no! However, in this instance it means the product performs better. The waxy texture makes it last an age on the lips and provides the perfect barrier between me and the sun. It is also waterproof which makes it a great little product to use if the pool and the beach is your usual environment on holiday. I used this in the recent heatwave that UK has had and my lips have been well protected, which is a welcome change. I know for a fact that this will be a staple in my beach bag in October when I'm  basking in the Mexican heat!

I would definitely recommend this to everyone, but especially those who, like me, find that their lips burn easily.

You can purchase this here :)

*PR Sample sent for consideration of review* 

Trevor Sorbie Self-Grip Hair Rollers

I love styling my hair, I'm just lazy when it comes to actually deciding what to do with it. When I used to work in the hairdressers back home, I would make a concious effort everyday to make my hair look its best, because lets face it, no-one wants to go to a hairdresser with terrible hair, right? After moving away from my hometown, I didn't know any decent hairdressers around me that were not going to charge me an arm and a leg, and my hair was starting to get a bit too much. Last month I ventured back home to Leeds to visit my family and thought it would also be a perfect opportunity to get my haircut at my old workplace.

A whole 4 inches off later and I decided I would start making more of an effort. I have my regular hair

straighteners but I wanted something a bit different. Whilst browsing the aisles of boots, I came across the Trevor Sorbie Self-Grip Hair Rollers, something which I have looked at many times. This time was different though as they were on offer, and they some how ended up in my basket, Oops!

Each box contains 30 Velcro Rollers, all of varying sizes. Some of the are huge, but they are a godsend on my thick, heavy hair as tiny rollers are no good on my hair so obviously I favour the larger. I have used velcro rollers before but these are on a whole different level! You can tell that the quality of these is fantastic and will last a hell of a long time. So onto how they work...

I washed my hair as normal and towel dried it as it would when doing any style. I left my hair to dry naturally until it was about 80% dry. Then I used my Tangle Teezer Aqua and brushed through making sure there were no knots. Then taking the largest rollers on the crown of my head and using the smaller sized ones near the nape of my neck (I should probably also point out that you can also use these on dry hair but I find it easier to use them on damp hair). I repeated this all over my head. Although these are velcro and grip on their own, due to my thick hair, I pin them into place with some bobby pins, but if you have thin- medium hair then you probably won't need to do this. I left these in nearly all day before my night out, and they didn't other me once, they're really comfortable. Before I was ready to take them out I gave them a quick blast with my hair dryer and a slight spritz of hairspray. Once I removed them. I had lovely voluminous waves, I had to run my fingers through just to elimate any obvious sections. TaDah! My new hair style lasted all night and even looked lovely the next day! 

Sorry for the shocking lighting in my pictures, the weather is just playing havoc with where I can take decent pictures :(

I would definitely recommend these to everyone as I think they're such a good little piece of kit and you don't need to be a hair professional by any means. 

Sorry that this has been a very long post, I just realised that I rambled on a lot! You can purchase these here, from Boots.

Illamasqua Illuminator in Fondle

A few days ago, I showed you one of my new favourite products, Illamasqua's Illuminator in Glimmer. Well, today I have another one to show you and it is an absolute beauty!

Illamasqua are fast becoming one of my favourite brands. I love everything they stand for, the amazing quality of their products, and the fantastic, imaginative colours that they incorporate into everyday products. I also love how you can achieve a neutral everyday look, or you can go wild and theatrical with some of the weird and wonderful shades available. A good all rounder I'd say.

In their recent sale, Illamasqua had some amazing products and I could all ready hear my bank account crying in the background. I picked up quite a few items, two of them being their Illuminators. The shade that I'm going to show you today is Fondle, which is just so unbelievably beautiful.

First, the packaging is so simple but is actually pretty great. With it's squared shape and clear plastic appearance, it's not too dissimilar to a lipgloss, and it makes it easy to see what shade you are picking up when it's in your collection. The casing is also a solid plastic which makes it great for travelling purposes as it's not going to bend and split in your bag. The applicator is a small, sturdy brush which makes application easy and precise, and picks up just the right amount of product.

Fondle is a stunning rose gold shade, but is nothing like the infamous nars orgasm sort of rose gold. Due to this being liquid, the gold in it almost looks like molten metal which just gives the most perfect effect when its applied to the skin. The pink base in this illuminator, lifts the shade so that it doesn't look like a chunk of shimmer on your face, whilst giving a lovely rosy complexion to the face. I have applied this to the high points of my face and softly blended it out, and I was so pleased with how glowing and healthy my skin looked! I have also applied this to the eyes and blended out which makes for a lovely everyday shade. I find this shade to be more universally flattering that Glimmer which I previously shared with you. As Glimmer is very dark and warm, it would not suit those with an extremely pale tone, but this is a shade that will most definitely suit all skin tones!

I just can't get enough of these, and can see myself purchasing more in the very near future!

My Guide To: Moving Out Of Your Parent's

Hello Lovelies, 

I've recently been thinking how great it would be to offer advice to someone who really needs it, and how great it would feel to know that you have helped someone make what could be a difficult decision. So, with that in mind I have decided to start up a new advice section on my blog. 

Todays post is going to be focused on a big decision that I made 2 years ago, and it honestly was the biggest decision I have made in my life so far. Moving out of my Parent's house. There are so many questions that are difficult to answer on your own, and a whole array of things that you might not have even known about because your parent's always dealt with them. Here are my top pieces of advice that I think it is important to know when making this next step:

1: Budget, Budget, BUDGET!

I'm not going to lie, this is the hardest thing to do. Had it not been for my boyfriend (who I moved in with) I would have been in such a financial mess. Thankfully, he is very good at budgeting and has taught me so many things about money. First thing to consider is your rent/mortgage. It's no good looking at your dream property and not being able to afford it. We first decided how much we could afford per month and then looked at what was available within these means. Another thing that is important to look at is the council tax. This can really increase your monthly outgoings so try and find a property that is in a low tax band. Finally see what providers offer the cheapest for internet, electric, gas etc because it's no good paying more for something that you could have got for half the price.

2: Make Ikea your best friend.

There is not a piece of furniture in our flat that wasn't bought from Ikea. I'm sure that most of you will know that Ikea sell pretty much everything, and for bargain prices too. As they cater to all budgets, it's perfect for someone who is moving into their first home and has essentially nothing furniture wise to take with them. It's also worth registering for an Ikea Family Card, as this gets you discounts once you get to the till with all of your items.

3: Say yes to handouts!

I know that a lot of people like to have their own things and like them to be brand new, but there is no harm in accepting a few hand downs from people. We took the sofas from my Mum and Dad's conservatory as they were re decprating and wanted to get rid of them. Our coffee table was given to me by my boss, and our laundry basket was a showroom model from my Dad's work. My point is that whilst everything feels lovely if its brand new, a few second hand items wont hurt.

4: Finally, Don't Rush!

Whilst you may be desperate to move out and gain some independence, you need to have everything sorted 100% before you take the plunge. It's not easy, and it can be a very stressful time, so it is important to have everything in place before taking the next step. Take your time, ask for help and enjoy the experience.

So, I know that is a very long post, but I thought it would be nice to reflect on my experiences and share my advice with you.

If you have anything you would like advice on then feel free to email them to me at retrolove17@hotmail.co.uk or tweet it to me @RetroLoveBeauty, as I would love to make this a regular feature.

Illamasqua Illuminator in Glimmer

Illamasqua are fast becoming one of my favourite brands. I love everything they stand for, the amazing quality of their products, and the fantastic, imaginative colours that they incorporate into everyday products. I also love how you can achieve a neutral everyday look, or you can go wild and theatrical with some of the weird and wonderful shades available. A good all rounder I'd say.

In their recent sale, Illamasqua had some amazing products and I could all ready hear my bank account

crying in the background. I picked up quite a few items, two of them being their Illuminators. The shade that I'm going to be showing you today is Glimmer but I did also pick up another in the shade Fondle, which I shall be sharing with you soon. 

First, the packaging is so simple but is actually pretty great. With it's squared shape and clear plastic appearance, it's not too dissimilar to a lipgloss, and it makes it easy to see what shade you are picking up when it's in your collection. The casing is also a solid plastic which makes it great for travelling purposes as it's not going to bend and split in your bag. The applicator is a small, sturdy brush which makes application easy and precise, and picks up just the right amount of product.

On to the shade, Glimmer is a beautiful warm, golden tan which really warms up my complexion. It is packed full of shimmer but when applied it doesn't look over the top which is definitely a bonus. I like to apply this to the tops of my cheekbones when I have applied some bronzer. Once blended out this gives the most natural sunkissed look I have ever had without actually having a tan. I have also used this on my eyes and it looks beautiful, so it really is a multi-use product. 

I love this product and it just shows why Illamasqua are fast making their way to the top of my favourites. I would definitely recommend this product if your looking something that is easy and effective, but with the best quality.

This is currently available on the Illamasqua sale here, for £5.00 with an RRP of £13.50.

The One Where I Graduate

Yesterday, Thursday 18th July, I experienced the most nerve-wracking day of my life. It was the day that I Graduated. Three years at University had all come down to this day and to be really honest it all came around too fast! 

Dad, Me and Mum, just after I had Graduated.

Back in May when I was doing my exams, Graduation seemed like it was forever away and that it was never going to come around, but when it did, I couldn't have wished for a better day! I Graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with a BA (Hons) in Tourism Management. Whilst on this course, I have met so many wonderful friends that are honestly now my friends for life and they have made my university experience so much more enjoyable.

Me and My not so baby brother. Can you believe that there is almost 6 years between us?!

The run up to Graduation was so intense and stressful but it was definitely all worth it in the end! Our ceremony took place at The Bridgewater Hall, which if you know Manchester, you will know is a grand concert venue with the most stunning, modern and contemporary twist on an old style theatre. I knew that the venue was big, but I was so shocked when I walked in to take my seat. Nerves started to kick in and the thought of walking up onto the stage petrified me, but it felt absolutely amazing! My Mum and Dad sat up in the Stalls and I could see them from where I was sat which really reassured me. When my name was called the whole reality of actually having a degree really sunk in, whilst at the same time I was desperately trying not to fall flat on my face due to wearing the most uncomfortable shoes. 

Afterwards, I met up with all of my friends where we had a drink, courtesy of the venue, and of course did the mandatory throwing of the hats in the air. I had so many pictures with family and friends, and handing tissues to my dad who tried his hardest not to cry. However, the weather was just so hot that my makeup was sliding off my face, despite wearing a setting spry, so I am a little worried that my professional pictures are going to look horrendous! 

I still can't believe that it's all over, and I am sad to see my University life come to end. However, I know that I have so much more to look forward to, and I'll always have my friends for life. If you're graduating this year, I wish you all the luck in the world and enjoy your day!

Summer Wislist

Hello Lovelies! I apologise that my posts on here have been few and far between at the minute, but I have been so busy searching for a full time job and that has been my priority. Fear not, I have a new post for you today, and it's just a snippet of a few items I've been lusting over recently.

1: Lime Crime Lipstick in Cosmopop.

I've been wanting to try Lime Crime for ages now and this is the product that my eye is firmly on. It looks like a hybrid between Neon and Pastel orange. I've heard nothing but great things about their lipsticks so I'm excited to hopefully get this.

via Cocktail Cosmetics £11.50

2: Floral Hair Garland.

I guess that this next item is like marmite. You either love it or you hate it. In all honesty, I love it and think its such a statement piece that would look lovely with a simple outfit and boho hair.

via Topshop £20.00

3: Bright Bow Headband.

Another hair product now, but after finally having my hair cut last week, I've been all over hair accessories. This bright bow headband just screams summer to me and it will really make a statement1

via Topshop £8.50

4: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream.

I have heard such amazing things about this! I don't like wearing heavy makeup in the summer but my skin does get quite dry. This cream will help my skin looking its best, whilst moisturising.

via Debenhams, Currently on offer for £20.83 (RRP £25.00)

5: Avene Thermal Water Spray.

This is an absolute godsend in the heat. I had a small travel size one of these and used it so much during these heatwaves. I know on my next venture into town I'll be getting the large version. It's so refreshing and great for popping in your handbag.

via Boots £10.00

6: St.Tropez Rose Skin Illuminator. 

Despite not wearing much makeup in the summer, this looks like it would be a beauty. I love adding a little highlight to the high points of my face and think that this rose shade will look lovely with a tan. I think that this is going to be a purchase for my holidays later on this year. 

via Boots £10.00

So that is my summer wishlist. I know that I'm not going to be able to purchase all of these but I might just treat myself to a few. What is on your summer wishlist?

Top 10 Under £10: The Summer Edition

I really enjoy posts which show a bloggers top products, although they're not very healthy for my banck balance! I thought that today I would show you my top 10 products under £10 that are my favourites for the summer season.

Here are my Top 10...

1: Sleek Snapshots Palette:

This palette, which is part of Sleek's permanent collection, has the greatest range of shadows for summer. It has a few neutrals for a really simple eye, and some fabulous bright shades for a more exotic look. I love to wear the neutral shades with a tiny bit of the bright shades on my lower lashline for a flash of colour.

Buy here for £7.99

2: Bourjois Bronzing BB Cream:

I'm all over the bronzing products this year, and this has to be one of my favourites. It's more like a gel than a cream and is perfect for adding to your regular base product and adding a little more warmth.

Buy here for £9.99

3: Amazing Shine Lashes:

I love these lashes! They feel so lightweight and natural on my lids so are perfect for those nights out in the summer when it's warmer than expected. However, these can be hard to find but I have found them in most fancy dress shops and markets.

Buy here for £1.99

4: MUA Powder Blush in Lolly:

This is a lovely candy orange shade and is one of those that will suit all skin tones. It looks lovely with bronzer and is so natural on the skin. This blush also helps to achieve a natural looking contour which is an added bonus!

Buy here for £1.00

5: 17 Wild Metallics Cream:

I have this in the shade Wilde Nude and Wild Bronze, both of which are beautiful neutral shades. These are both really natural looking and look really subtle on the eye. They also withstand the heat despite being a cream product.

Buy here for £3.99

6: Maybelline Colour Sensation Vivids in Fuchsia Flash: 

Who doesn't love a neon pink lipstick? The formula of these lipsticks is so creamy and long lasting that they make into my top 10 for that reason alone. The colour of this one is so ridiculously bright that it just screams summer. The neon pink goes extremely well with a tan and looks lovely on most skin tones.

Buy here for £7.19

7: Kiko long Lasting Lipliner in 714 Pink Iguana:

This liner goes extremely well with the aforementioned lipstick. It makes my lips look full, and perfectly proportioned. The colour is also one that you can wear alone and it looks like you are wearing a matte lipstick.

Buy here for £2.50

8: Rimmel Scandaleyes Liner in Nude:

Every blogger and their mum has this liner. I think black is far too harsh for the warmer months so this is my go to shade in summer. It really helps to make my eyes look awake, and it helps to combat the redness that comes with hayfever.

Buy here for £3.99

9: Palmer's Natural Bronze Lotion:

Until I go on my holidays in October, a false tan will have to do due to not having any outside space at my flat. Although my review of this wasn't a rave one, I have since found that this is the easiest tan to apply and one of the most natural looking. 

Buy here for £5.35

10: No7 Hair Protecting Spritz:

Anyone who has coloured hair needs this in their life! It's a beautiful lightweight protecting oil which shades your hair from the UV rays. It is also waterproof, so if your going on holiday this is perfect as you can still use it around the pool and on the beach.

Buy here for £6.50

So that has been my Top 10 under £10 for summer. I would love to know if you use any of these products, or what your summer essentials are?

Yankee Candle : Sicilian Lemon

As a lover of candles, Yankee Candle is a holy grail product that I'm sure everyone has either tried or heard of them. Close to where I live, there is a Yankee Candle Outlet Store so I can often be found in there sniffing  all of the jars like a mad woman.

I'm also partial to fruity fragrances, so this paired with a candle is a match made in heaven. The Yankee Candle Sicilian Lemon Large Jar, is a fresh, crisp scent that doesn't at all smell artificial. I think that there is always a worry that the scent can be too over powering that it ruins the product but this is such a stunning scent, that there is no worries. The scent makes me think of the lemon groves in Spain on a hot summers day, a vision which I'll always be very fond of.

The Large Jars from Yankee Candles burn for around 90 hours, which is an amazing amount of time for a candle! I had mine on for about 3 hours last night and I haven't made a dent in it.

These candles sell for £19.99 but are currently 25 % off in Clinton Cards at £14.99. I definitely think for 90 hours of burn time, £19.99 is just a small price to pay for all of those hours. I can't wait to add more to collection. What is your favourite Yankee Candle Scent?