Vanity Claire | Birmingham Fashion and Beauty Blog

ClaireOctober 8, 2014

What to Wear to Work… Wishlist 2014

I recently announced on this little blog that I have landed myself a snazzy new job. As we all know, a new job always means that you need a whole new wardrobe – I mean, I’ve sometimes used a new toothbrush as an excuse for a celebratory new jumper, so of course a brand new role and office and desk demand new clothes to go along with them. My new job also has a slightly stricter dress code than my old one, so it’s goodbye to ripped jeans, crop tops and leather shorts and HELLO to official workwear (probably for the best where the shorts are concerned). I’ve already started picking up some new bits for my new grown-up ‘drobe, but here are other things currently on my wishlist…

Sleeveless Wrap Blouse / Dogtooth Shorts / Leather Panel Tunic / Grey Tote Bag / Floral Cigarette Trousers / Sandals

Leather Satchel / Check Shell Top / Peg Leg Trousers / Pleated Culottes / Tassel Mule Loafers

Burgundy Cropped Blazer / Burgundy Scallop Shorts / White Floral Midi Skirt / Grey Crepe Blazer / Cut Out Brogues / Check Brushed Mini Skirt

River Island is KILLIN’ IT lately, and I love the range of rich patterns and mixed fabrics in their work collection, meaning that outfits can still be eyecatching. Topshop have a lot of smart tailored pieces in, with looser fits adding a very cool edge to what would otherwise be classic pieces. And finally, there are heaps of pleasant surprises to be found in the New Look workwear section, with some really cutesy co-ords and blazers in an array of colours.

Now that I’ve actually turned me attention to it, I’m surprised I was never more into workwear before as there are some really beaut pieces around. What do you all think of workwear, and which places do you recommend?

Let us know in the comments below!

ClaireSeptember 30, 2014

New Rimmel Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet | Review

There’s nothing more exciting than a new lip product, in my opinion. Whether it’s a new colour, new “technology” (paha) or even just new packaging, I am more excited by new things than is really strictly necessary. Yes, there may be horrible wars on and terrible people doing terrible things, but if we can’t get excited about new lip products then the world is an even more sad place to be.

SO, obviously I was more excited than an excited thing on legs when I saw that Rimmel had brought out another Apocolips product. I am a big fan of the original Apololips Lip Lacquer, and the Big Bang shade is a staple in my lipstick drawer. The new Apocolips products are the total opposite to the Lip Lacquer in that instead of high shine, they deliver a super matte finish.

Officially called Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet, these aim to deliver:

Weightless colour with a velvety finish
Colour that lasts for up to 8 hours
Moisturising formula that increases lip moisture by 31% (very specific, I know)

So, it all sounds very promising and obviously, I totally bought into it all (I am easily convinced, particularly when Kate Moss is staring up at me). BUT, having used it a number of times since buying it last week, does it actually deliver?

Well, I would say…partially.

I was trying to describe to Claire this morning how it feels going onto my lips (ooo-er, creepy), and it is very odd. It really is weightless and it almost feels powdery when you put it on, but liquid at the same time. The only thing I can kind of compare it to feeling like is Maybelline’s Dream Matte Mousse – it’s really lightweight and barely feels like you’ve put anything on there at all. It’s actually really nice when compared with the Lip Lacquer, which can feel quite weighty when you wear it.

In terms of colour that lasts for 8 hours – I would say this is where the product falls down a little. I do have to reapply after 3-4 hours because it wears off a bit (as you would expect from eating, drinking and mouthing off at people). While I have no beef with reapplying, it’s the fact that it fades into a kind of scabby lipliner that irks me a little. I end up looking a bit mad, and with a face like mine, I don’t want to be giving anyone any more reason to think I am stark raving.

I was intrigued to see that they put a lot of emphasis on the moisturising aspect of this lippy, because I found it pretty impressive that it is such a ‘dry’ product in terms of feel, but doesn’t actually dry out your lips. Top marks on this front, Rimmel, I applaud you.

(I like looking really smug)

I bought my Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet in Orange-ology, which is a lovely bright reddy-orange shade. It is currently available in 5 shades, which you can have a nosey at here. At £6.49, it’s a pretty reasonable lip product in terms of price and I thoroughly recommend you give it a go and see what you think. Personally, I am in wuv.

If you’re keen for the new Rimmel Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet, but can’t be arsed to buy it yourself, we’re giving away Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet in Meteoric Matte in our Autumn/Winter Beauty Bundle Giveaway!

ClaireSeptember 29, 2014

Outfit of the Day: Missguided Trouser Co-Ord

Top and Trousers: both Missguided | Shoe: Primark | Clutch Bag: ASOS (old)

HEY GUYS. As you may know if you read our recent Missguided wishlist post, I’ve had my beady eyes on this two-piece for a couple of weeks now. I had a christening to go to over the weekend and so finally saw my chance to buy it. Yes, I technically wore a crop top to church. Sorry baby Jesus. I have to say though that I’m COMPLETELY in love with this co-ord. It’s made from quite thick polyester so feels much more formal and fitted than other crops-and-trouser combos, and I think the print is really flattering (despite my hips looking approx 3 metres wide).

I was a bit unsure how the trousers would fit as normally my stumpy legs require petite lengths, but Missguided trousers are actually a really good length for me. I’m looking forward to wearing these for my new job with a cami or jumper, and I should get plenty of wear from the top too seeing as it’s not too cropped.

I teamed the co-ord with my nude Primark heels (£13, say whut) and bright envelope clutch from ASOS. I kept jewellery simple with a couple of silver rings, and had my new Barry M shade ‘Coconut’ on my nails.

What do you all think of this look? Let us know in the comments below!

ClaireSeptember 27, 2014

3 of the Best Everyday Lip Shades: MAC, Bourjois & Collection

There are some girls out there who are confident rocking a statement lip everyday; slicking on fuchsias, reds and purples with gay abandon. I, however, am what’s known in the industry as a ‘coward’. Bold lip colours are so risky; what if I clash, what if I get it in my hair, what if people mistake me for a clown? I prefer to stick to neutral lips on most days, and so usually have at least 8 different lip products floating around my bag at any one time, all slightly different shades of nude and pale pink.

There are 3 that I’m currently reaching for most at the moment that I decided to share with my fellow neutral-loving chicas. They’re all from different brands and are in very different price brackets, so there’s something for all the Fancy Nancys and Cheap Chelseas out there. Let’s begin with the cheapest of the 3, which has been a staple in my makeup bag for years…

Collection Lock ‘n’ Hold Lipgloss in Urban Punk – £2.99, Boots

I know some people find lipglosses a bit dated, and considering I think I first picked this up when I was still a teenager it should really be very dated. However, I just can’t let go of a decent, easy to apply nude lip gloss, and this one from Collection does the job. Lauren gave the Rock Steady shade a mixed verdict when she reviewed it here, but I will say that Urban Punk is a slightly warmer, less milky shade than Rock Steady, making it more wearable. The 6 hour wear claims are, as Lauren said, really high on the nonsense-ometer, and I apply this lipgloss fairly regularly throughout the day. But despite that, I always like how it feels on my lips, like the colour, and when it does fade it does so evenly and still leaving a nice sheen.

For £2.99 this is a cheap and cheerful lipgloss that I think still does a lot better than a lot of its similarly-priced rivals.

Bourjois Rouge Edition Lipstick in Beige Trench – £7.99 from Boots

Although it’s a drugstore brand, I always find Bourjois to be the slightly pricier end of the scale and so don’t usually get much from them. However, I fell in love with this shade during a recent swatching frenzy and had to have it. Although it looks very brown in this photo, it’s actually a cool-toned nude. With a slightly purple undertone to it, it gives quite a 90s effect while still being basic. This is the first of the Bourjois Rouge Edition lipsticks I’ve tried and I have to say, I am super impressed. The formula is creamy and moisturising, and lasts well without flaking. I still think paying £8 for a lipstick is a bit steep (you know Cheap Chelsea I mentioned earlier? SURPRISE, SHE’S ME!), but for an everyday colour that you know you can rely on, I suppose it’s worth it. It’s also double worth it if you can buy it while there’s a Buy One Get One Half Price offer on, like I did (Chelsea wins, hurray).

MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Crème Cup – £15.50 from MAC

Finally, we have the brand that really needs no introduction. I recently added Crème Cup to my pitifully small MAC lipstick collection as I was looking for a neutral shade for my sister’s wedding, but wanted something slightly pinkier than my beloved nudes Crème D’Nude and and Pret-A-Pretty (which can look a bit foundation-lip-esque if over-applied). Once again ignore the darkness of the photo; Crème Cup is the perfect pastel pink. My toes curl at the cliche phrase ‘my lips but better’ but unfortunately that’s probably the best way to describe this shade. The Cremesheen formula is smooth and moisturising, though I do think you have to be careful when re-applying if you have any dry patches on your lips. Other than this though, it is of course HEAVEN in a lip case, and the typical vanilla scent will have you belting out “I’M SO FANCY” to any passers by.

Collection | Bourjois | MAC

So there we have my current 3 favourite everyday lip shades. If you have any you think I should try, let me know in the comments below!

ClaireSeptember 25, 2014

Autumn/Winter Beauty Bundle Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WELL HELLO THERE.

We have decided that summer has passed, autumn is basically here and that winter is well and truly on the way. In fact, we have been freezing our bottoms off quite frequently recently. We have nearly been forced to put the heating on (WHAT, IT IS SEPTEMBER). So, what better way to numb the pain of the passing of summer than to treat you all to a giveaway? Yes, we admit, the main reason we are running it is because we went and spent too much money in Boots and decided that the only way to make ourselves feel less terrible would be to give some of it away.

That being said, these incredible products are the tip top way to update your face for the new season, so without further ado…here’s what we are possibly sending your way.

Barry M Smokin’ Hot Shadow and Blush Palette
New Apocolips Matte Lip Velvet in 307 Meteoric Matte
New Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in Chai
New Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in Plum
Maybelline Eyestudio Master Duo Liquid Eyeliner in Black Laquer
Two slabs of Galaxy chocolate (because if you can’t get a bit chubby in winter, when can you?

Good luck, you sexy thangs.

ClaireSeptember 24, 2014

How Your Blog Can Help You Get a Job

Hiya kids! Today’s post is something completely different, and it starts with one exciting announcement: I HAVE A NEW JOB. And not just any old job; I have landed, and believe me that I’m not exaggerating, my dream job. In a couple of weeks, I’ll be starting in a PR role at a well-known cosmetics company, and I couldn’t be any happier. Firstly, a part of the reason I’m telling you all this because I’m SO EXCITED and basically want to tell the whole world (even the woman in Greggs was nearly told when I first found out). But also, I know for a fact that there’s no way I would have got this amazing opportunity if it wasn’t for this little blog of ours. I know, WEIRD, EH?!

I therefore decide to put my recent experience to use and write this post explaining the ways in which I think a blog can help you bag the perfect job. Whether you’re actively job hunting and don’t know whether your blog is worth mentioning, a student who’s planning their future career, or just wondering how your blog can help you in the wider world, hopefully you’ll find something useful in here. So, how did my blog help me get my job, and how can yours help you?

It Makes You Stand Out

We all known that job hunting is HARD, and it’s important to try to make your CV stand out from other applicants. One of the most basic benefits of having a blog is that it helps to set you apart from your fellow candidates. Not only does it make you look like a legit person who has a real hobby other than ‘reading, socialising and breathing oxygen’, but it also gives potential new employees something that they can look at as a physical example of your work. Which brings me smoothly onto my next point…

It Showcases Your Skills

The majority of us love blogging so much that we don’t actually realise how much work we really put into them, or what skills we’re developing along the way. Along with the obvious writing and creative skills you’re putting to use, having a blog will probably also mean that you’re familiar with basic HTML, can use social media to promote yourself, have used analytics software and have formed professional relationships with brands – and that’s to name only a few. It’s important to recognise how much you actually do as part of this hobby, and identify which skills can be transferred into the job role you’re going after

It Shows You Know and LOVE the Industry

This one was particularly relevant for me. I was actually completely under qualified for the job I went for, and know for a fact that it was this blog that piqued the employer’s interest in me. It’s one thing to go for an interview and tell them how passionate you are about fashion or beauty – it’s another to really prove it. Having a blog that you have worked on independently, in your own time, for no reason other than that you genuinely enjoy it, is worth so much.

As well as showing that you really are interested, it also (hopefully) shows that you understand the industry, are up-to-date with what is going on in it, and are also a part of that industry in your own right. As a blogger, you’re likely to have connections with hundreds of other bloggers as well as PRs – and this is also something that works in your favour when trying to join a company.

It Shows You Have a Personality

Putting aside all of my above points, don’t feel like your blog should primarily act as an online portfolio. While it’s great for it to showcase your slick writing skills and flair for photography, it’s also true that employers do want well-rounded individuals and a blog can be a way for them to get a feel for who really are. Admittedly when I knew that my soon-to-be-employer had read my blog, I went into a mild panic. Did she read the post where I said I wanted to punch all of my colleagues in the face? Or the one where I called myself a bellend? If she did though, then it obviously didn’t put her off; and it also meant that I went to my interview knowing that, despite my uber-professional demeanour, they also had a rough idea who I was as a person and so I felt a bit more relaxed. Some brands also value a bit of personality and humour, especially if you’re going for a job role that might involve using their social media, so don’t be afraid to be yourself (unless you’re a boring bellend… that was a joke, see?)

HOWEVER, Here’s What Might Not Help…

By now you might be thinking that your blog is your one-way ticket to career heaven, and it’s time to dedicate your CV and interview chatter solely to your little blogging baby. But WAIT. In my two recent interviews, both interviewees have asked whether my blog could in any way interfere with my role. That was something I had never considered employers thinking about, but if you’re waffling on about how many thousands of followers you’ve got, the awards you’ve been nominated for, and how your blog is your main passion, then of course some employers are going to wonder whether your blog comes first.

Be clear in your CV, cover letter or interview that while you love blogging, it is a hobby. And that while you’ve learned a lot of skills from blogging and are keen to bring these skills into your job, it is not something you plan to pursue above and beyond the job you’re interviewing for. Don’t make them think you’re so hot shot that you’re going to be running off to join Vogue at any moment (unless you’re interviewing for a job at Vogue. Then that’s probably okay).

I hope you have found this post remotely useful! If you have any other tips for how your blog can help you find a job, then share in the comments below!

(Image Source: Pinterest)

ClaireSeptember 22, 2014

Outfit of the Day: Primark Drop Waisted Dress

Before anyone criticises me too much, I have relatively changed my mind about drop waisted dresses and skirts. I have always been like WHY, WHY DO THESE THINGS EXIST THEY ARE STUPID when it comes to drop waisted things, but now I have changed my mind and decided to love them, c’est la vie.

And the dress that changed my mind is this one. Granted, I bought it when I was slightly merry and had been drinking virtually all day in the delights of Yorkshire, this should have been a total disaster. But I was so pleasantly surprised, and for the price, it is such a great little buy. But how much was it, I hear you asking? WELL. IT WAS FIVE POUNDS. Yes. Five human pounds. This bad boy was a part of the Primark fiver range, which continues to impress me. While the quality isn’t great, for standard dresses that do alright for work and so forth, they really are great. I wore this out when we headed out in Hull for a delightful partay, and it worked really well with heels too.

I’m wearing it today with my favey denim jacket, my ASOS platforms (cough, I never wear these hehe) and a few bits of jewellery I have found lying around my room.

What do you think of this £5 Primark dress? Worth the bargain?
(What a stupid question Lauren, of course it is worth the bargain)

ClaireSeptember 20, 2014

Hollywood Lashes | Review

I think we all agree that one of the most important things in life is to have a hobby. Some people like knitting, some have a great passion for tennis, while others enjoy a snorkel every now and then. My hobby, however, is a little different. I, dear readers, like getting various bits of plastic, hair and other materials stuck to me to make my body parts seem longer.

Yes, on top of my hair extensions and acrylic nails, I have now started branching into the world of semi-permanent false eyelashes. And I’m NEVER going back.

A few months ago you may have seen my review of Angel Eyes Eyelashes, which were my first venture into the world of lash extensions. I was really happy with them, but as that particular technique is only offered in some salons around the country and my nearest was around half an hour away, I didn’t end up getting the infils. However, this summer I had a hectic few months with loads of events including a holiday, hen parties and my sister’s wedding, so I wanted to give falsies another whirl. This time I opted for Hollywood lashes, which are a much more common type of eyelash extensions found in salons all over the UK. I first got them done in July, and have now had 3 sets applied so feel I’m finally ready to review the whole process properly.

How do Hollywood lashes work?

Hollywood lashes are applied individually, with each lash being bonded with glue to your existing lashes. There are various lengths and thicknesses available, and your lash technician should be able to advise you on the best ones for you and the effect you want to create. I think I have the thickest lashes but not the longest – my sister had the longest ones fitted once and warned me she couldn’t wear sunglasses because they would literally touch the lens, so I steered clear of this camel way of life and went for a slightly more natural finish. When you first go to get the treatment you should be able to talk through which ones are right for you.

The whole application process takes between 45 minutes to an hour. I didn’t find it remotely uncomfortable; the glue did make my eyes water but my eyes water if there’s a bit of a strong breeze so that’s not surprising. There was no stinging or anything like that though, and the whole process was actually really relaxing.

How long do Hollywood lashes last?

As with things like hair extensions, the length of time Hollywood lashes lasts does vary depending on how well you take care of them. They’re estimated at lasting anywhere between 3-6 weeks, and longer if you get infils, which are recommended every 2-3 weeks. My first set lasted almost perfectly for around 3 weeks, and that included my holiday where they were exposed to heat and sweat. My second set, which I also left for 3 weeks, didn’t last as well but that’s because it was a very stressful few weeks for me and I STARTED TO PICK THEM. Which was stupid and entirely my fault, but it was either pick my lashes or chin a colleague out of frustration, so…

How much do Hollywood lashes cost?

If you find salons in your local area that offer Hollywood lashes, you’ll probably find that prices for a first set are around £40-50, with your infils/maintenance costing around £25. This is obviously pretty pricey and not the sort of thing a lot of us can shell out for every couple of weeks, so, like most treatments like this, I recommend finding someone who does them mobile. Most mobile lash extensionists are likely to have had the same training in applying Hollywood lashes, but will usually charge a lot less. I paid £30 for my first set and only £15 for subsequent maintenance sessions.

Before/After

When it comes to finding a mobile lash technician, you can check out Facebook as a lot of them tend to have pages, or you can have a look on Gumtree or Yell. However, whether it’s for a spray tan or nails, I always tend to go with mobile therapists who are recommended to me by a friend, as I think word of mouth is really the best recommendation you can get. The girl that I go to was recommended me to be my sister who had gone to her before, so I knew I was in safe hands (on a side note, if you’re from the Coventry area and would like the name of my Hollywood lash technician then let me know and I can pass on details!)

Can you still wear makeup with Hollywood lashes?

The general advice with Hollywood lashes is that you can still wear mascara and eyeliner, though they should be oil-free products as the oil can loosen the bonds. I personally don’t feel the need to wear mascara over my falsies, as they are thick and dark enough, and also blend very well with my own lashes. When I wear eyeliner I’m just careful with my makeup removal – obviously don’t scrub at your eyes or you’re likely to dislodge lashes or pull them off. I tend to use a cotton bud with an oil-free makeup remover and gently wipe near the lashes.

Are Hollywood lashes worth it?

In a word, YES. I would definitely recommend them for holidays, as they’re great for making you look a little less tragic on no-makeup, hair-scraped-up-by-the-pool days; and also perfect for the evening when you don’t want to faff about with eyelash glue and just want to drink vodka on the balcony.

I know some people may think it’s too high maintenance to carry on getting them done after a holiday or special occasion, but I still think they’re worth it in everyday life. I genuinely adore my lashes now; they make such a difference to my appearance and make me feel more groomed, without looking too over-the-top. Here’s a snap of my lashes just before my sister’s wedding –

This set had actually already been fitted for 2 weeks at this point and were in need of maintenance, but you can see what a difference they still made.

I’m 100% converted to semi-permanent false eyelashes, but what do you think?

ClaireSeptember 17, 2014

Autumn/Winter 2014 Mini Trend: Blanket Scarves

This year is the year that I can be truly happy. I don’t know about you guys, but I have been wanting to go out in public in a blanket for some time. There have been so many cinema trips, train journeys and general outdoor pursuits that could have been vastly improved if I had only had a blanket with me. And this year, I can actually do this without being horrifically judged and/or mistaken for a tramp. And sweet Lord, it is good.

I can say without hesitating that blanket scarves are going to change my life. Not only do they look really, really adorbs but they also look incredibly comfy. In fact, just last night I was having a lovely chat on Twitter about how they are possibly going to make this winter the cosiest time in the entire world. So, while I am desperately waiting for winter to arrive (piss off Indian summer), I’ve put together a little wish list of blanket scarves that I need to get in my life. Pronto.

ASOS Fringed Blanket Cape | New Look Blanket Wrap | New Look Dogtooth Blanket|

Topshop Blanket Coat | Red Blanket Cape New Look | Aztec Print Blanket Cape

New Look seems to be the place to go for blanket capes this autumn/winter! They have such beautiful prints and capes, and I really think they are upping their game on the jacket/coat front this year. They’re not too pricey either, around the £20 mark, so won’t break the bank. I was going to try and pick my favourite, but I LOVE THEM ALL.

Happy blanketing!

Which are your favourites? Are you going to be rocking the blanket cape this autumn/winter?

ClaireSeptember 15, 2014

#MCM: Man Crush Mondays with New Look

Well, isn’t this a FINE start to a Monday morning?!

As you may know, Lauren and I are both ~~perverts~~ keen appreciators of male beauty, so when New Look asked if we would be interested in taking part in their new Man Crush Mondays campaign, we didn’t need much convincing. A chance to get a photo of the delectable Kit Harington on our blog? Yes please, sign us up at once.

New Look have just re-launched their men’s collection and to celebrate, they want to see how we would style up our man crushes. Of course, we could say that we would prefer to see Kit wearing, er, nothing… but that would be vulgar and sexist so GET YOUR MINDS OUT OF THE GUTTERS, PLEASE, HE IS A HUMAN MAN AND NOT A PIECE OF MEAT. With that in mind, we would like to dress this smokin’ hot piece of meat in the following ensemble…

White Rose T-Shirt | Black Bomber Jacket | Black Slim Fit Jeans | Black Hi-Tops

If you ever stalk photos of Kit out and about in his daily life (which I recommend you do, often…) then you’ll see he’s generally quite a casual dresser. I suppose when you have a face that beautiful, chucking on a t-shirt is basically all it takes. I therefore picked out this uber-casual but quite sleek look, which primarily comes from New Look’s monochrome trend range but incorporates elements of sports luxe too. Of course, being New Look, the prices are all extremely reasonable, so if you fancied picking up a similar outfit for the hunk in your life (did I just say hunk? Sorry) then it won’t break the bank – leaving more money for you to spend on yourself, huzzah.

Overall I definitely recommend taking a peek at the new AW14 menswear collection from New Look; the pieces are all very versatile and can be mixed and matched to create an endless array of on-trend looks. I also recommend locking at more pictures of Kit Harington. Seriously.

What do you all think of this look? And who is your #MCM? Let us know below or on Twitter using the hashtag!