I have been carrying this lot around for two weeks meaning to write this post, well here it is!


5. Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer


And that is it for my August lot! I hope you enjoyed it, and if you did, you know what to do :D

Ta ta for now!xx

These are becoming quite frequent but I will make it short and sweet.

Example used: MAC Studio Fix Fluid foundation

Did you fall in to the trap not too long ago when everyone was raving about the MAC Studio Fix Fluid, only to find that it dried out your skin, broke you out and carried the peculiar whiff of paint, to mention a few? Even worse, do you have it in the wrong shade all together? These are among some of my own complaints against the now shunned full coverage foundation. Having said that, I am aware that there are many who love this product, if you do that's great! However if it is not entirely suitable for you, then do not fret.

My own  bottle has been lying around rejected and dejected for far too long. I use it very rarely, and considering a little goes a long way with this product, I have a lot of it left. It is such a shame considering it is not the cheapest foundation in the world and that I had bought it back in my college days as an investment when I was considerably skint. For that reason I am reluctant to throw it out.

Mulling over professional makeup, it occurred to me that makeup artists do not buy foundation expecting it to match a client. Rather they buy a palette of a range of shades and mix them up to create the perfect skin color. Both drugstore and premium brands have enticed us to believe and worse still, expect that they can deliver the perfect skin shade for us, nicely package in a single magic bottle. However as many of us are beginning to realize, this is not the case. It goes for finishes too, let me explain what I mean.

Customise Your Color:

Left to right: Bourjois Healthy Mix, MAC SFF

My Studio Fix is far too light a shade for me, an inevitable consequence of buying online without consultation and my newest drugstore foundation Bourjois Healthy Mix is a shade too dark. By mixing these two in appropriate proportions I can  create a shade somewhere in between that will match me much better. Furthermore, as Healthy Mix is a much creamier foundation, it lends that quality to the Studio Fix so the final product is also creamy and moisturizing, This will work with any similar foundation.

Alternatively if the coverage and consistency happens to be perfect for you, then just dust a small amount of bronzer all over the face to give it a natural tinge. I have here Natural Collection's Sun Tint Bronzing Powder in Golden Glow.

Another options I have recently stumbled upon is Bourjois' Bronzing Primer. In the description is says that is can be used in two way. Either as a thin layer under your foundation or used as a traditional bronzer on top of it in the hollow of your cheek. As this product is very soft and very creamy, you should also be able to mix it up with your foundation to darken it.

To lighten mix with a lighter foundation or - read section: Finish

Customize the Consistency:

You've seen this before, it is my Korean moisturizer. If you haven't hop over here for more info and a summarized review!

To thin out my foundation and to give it a lightweight dewy look, I like to mix in a proportion of moisturizer with it. The more moisturizer you add the sheerer and creamier it becomes

 You can also, once again, mix it with any similar shade of drugstore foundation. This obviously works vice-versa. So if you wanted to give your normal foundation a bit more coverage you would throw in the Studio Fix to the mix..

Customize your Finish:


The Studio Fix is a completely matte foundation. In order to give it a radiant, glowing finish, you can mix in a small amount of liquid highlighter such as this Illuminator in Slay from Illamasqua. Popular alternatives to this are the Benefit High Beam and MAC Lustre drops. Most of these products have tiny amounts of shimmer which have light reflecting properties.

Break Out No More!

Although originally the Studio Fix would break me out, by mixing it with other products it feel far kinder to my skin and I know longer need to worry about unpleasant zits! That is for all 3 of these steps!

These tips are not exclusive to the MAC Studio Fix Fluid, I used it as an example only because that is my cause-of-concern foundation. If you too have problems with specific foundations that you have unwittingly bought, or have any neat tricks of your own, please do share it down below, it is much appreciated! And if you enjoyed this post then please +1 it and follow my blog for my updates!

Ta for now!xx

This summer its the coral and the orange tones that have been catching my eye. Although they tend to be rather bright, this season allows for some added punch to our colors, be it in makeup or fashion and besides, when else will you be able to wear them so comfortably? It's a forgiving season, one that has seen far too many tan lines and orange streaks and it is also the perfect time for those meeker among us to give bright and bold a whirl.

I have picked out 4 shades that I've been loving the most this summer, shades that I feel are best appreciated in these few months, uplifting and dazzling, they remind me of the tropics. I can promise they will keep your spirits high all the way through to the fall!


This is a gorgeous coral-red shade in a creamy-to-matte texture which gives it its sophisticated matte finish without being too drying on the lips. Similarly to the rest of the Kate collection, it carries the faintest scent of watermelon, not too over-powering and actually quite pleasant. On the lips this colour looks almost neon but don't be alarmed, its brilliantly flattering.

2. MAC, So Chaud, matte

From left to right: 110, So Chaud, 750 Kiss me Coral, 210 Coral in Gold

Comment  down below and let me know what you think, would you agree? What are your exclusive summer favorites? Also, don't forget to give this a +1 if you enjoyed it and follow me for more Inkquisitve posts.

Lots of Love xx

Where do I start? It tends to confuse people when they ask me about the brand of skin care products I use, and when I respond to their questioning looks with, 'It's Korean', it become yet more perplexing. The question that follows is usually something along the lines of, 'Why Korean?'

I cannot quite say when my focus of all things fashion and beauty shifted towards the Asian market. It may have very likely started when my high-school best friend became consumed by Korean music and their doll-like superstars. She introduced me to the Korean fashion website, YESSTYLE.COM.


Although at the time the music and the singers gained not a flicker of interest from me, their fashion, on the other hand, I felt I could appreciate.

Then, not so long ago, the whole of the western cosmetics market exploded with the introduction of bb creams. They claimed to tend to a huge range of out skincare needs, a miracle in a bottle. However a little research into them, and I was quickly uninspired. their fanatical claims where merely fictional, they where no more than your standard tinted moisturizer wrapped in big words and bold exclamations. Needless to say, not one of the popular western BB Creams made it to my collection.

The rave was not entirely futile in its efforts to win me. Through my research I was growing more and more intrigued with Asian products, it is after all where the bb cream craze originated, and it is where BB Creams - real bb creams that is to say - have been rife the last 10 years. My only barrier was availability and shipping. I struggle to trust Amazon on this point.

Read my review on my Korean skin care products and bb cream here (yes, I finally got hold of them).


It appears the Asian population, both male and female are very conscientious when it comes to skincare, with skincare being a far greater seller over cosmetics. And I quite agree, good makeup starts with a good base. Whilst here in Western society, beauty regimes are traditionally limited to cleanser, toner and moisturizer, and more recently serum, Korean regimes are, in comparison, extensive and complex and can involve a list of around 7 or so products.

It is no wonder that Korean people appear to have the most flawless skin, even without makeup (I hear it is also because it is popular over there to have your own dermatologist, but who knows). I am really looking forward to gradually working my way, trying and testing, through the vast abyss of the Korean beauty market, from their skincare down to their cosmetics and taking on board their tips, tricks and signature styles!

Further reading: this is a wonderful, thorough post that I stumbled up from The WanderLust Project, describing the ins and outs of each component of  the Korean skincare regime.

For places where you can buy Korean cosmetics, check for updates on the Links page!

It was only recently that Yesstyle have opened a website exclusively for the UK and yes -  I have been keeping a close eye on them these few years. Over the moon and charged with enthusiasm and willingness to give it a try I decided to change up my entire skin care routine, from toner to eye cream.

Sadly the eye cream did not arrive, Yesstyle seem to work on an on-demand basis and the manufacturer of the cream had ceased to produce them indefinitely. This delayed my order by a few days, Yesstyle was very apologetic in their correspondence and diligently dealt with the issue, promptly returning my money. They also let me keep my free shipping although my total now fell below the minimum spend.

So here are the rest of the products that I purchased.



for skin care I stuck to one brand, Laneige. It had very positive reviews and I felt the need to be consistent here.

1. Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream, 50ml:
This is a very hydrating water based cream for dry to normal skin. I am very  finicky when it comes to moisturizer, most moisturizers are too dry for my skin and just sit on the surface while I turn into a prune underneath. I suffer from the 10 second rule, where if i do not apply moisturizer within 10 seconds of drying my face, my skin forms an impermeable barrier that does not allow moisturizers to sink in. I have to splash my face in order to release it again. Strange, I know. This cream, however, seems to counteract this peculiarity, it sinks deep into the layers of my skin regardless of how dry it is. I really feel that this truly hydrates, and not just moisturizes. It feels as though it fills up in and around my skin cells, returning elasticity to my face.


2. Laneige Water Sleeping Pack_EX, 80ml:
This is a gel like, watery formula which I have been using as a night cream. Immediately after applying, it looks and feels wet but within a minute or two, it seals over and can feel a little tight. I mistook this for dryness the first time however on washing my face the next morning, the gel (still there) returned to its original consistency and washed away. This quality I feel keeps the product from slipping and rubbing off your face in the night and retains it like moisturizing socks and foot creams. I never wake up with dry flaky skin when using this.

Both of these products come with a small plastic spatula, perfect for hygienic application. I have not once had to dip my finger into the pot. They also both smell like sea minerals, light and pleasant when applying and disappears soon afterwards so it is not lingering. both are water based as opposed to oil based, so they do not leave you feeling greasy like most common moisturizers.

3. Laneige White Plus Renew Tone Up Corrector, 50ml:
I bought this toner believing it would help combat areas of pigmentation, such as around the eyes and mouth. I also believed it would come in liquid form like a traditional toner that can be applied with a cotton pad. Its remarkably high SPF (40PA+++) was also an attractive feature.

In reality this turned out to be a white shimmery cream formula, one that I am still struggling to figure out how to use. With a little experimenting I have come up with 3 effective methods of using this for different purposes. Its true purpose, however, is still a mystery to me. Directions for use would have been helpful here.

4. Missha B Perfect Cover BB Cream, 50ml:
This is the bb cream that I have had my eye on for some years now. When Yesstyle opened their service to the UK it was the first item on my to-buy list. its consistency is thick and creamy, with medium coverage and has a bonus of super high sun protection with an SPF of 42 PA+++, a rarity in the Western market. I want to do a full review on this product soon so I won't talk about this further here. I'll try not to tantalize you too much by delaying it!

Overall I am very pleased with my products, except maybe the tone up corrector, they have been a satisfying introduction to Korean skincare in general. Although they have worked well for me, I want to discover more brands and products and for that reason my next purchase may not necessarily be these.

Since my Yesstyle purchase I have discovered another website, cosmetic-love.com, which offers free delivery on all products with no minimum spend and small price variations.

Let me know what your views are on Korean products, whether you have tried them, use them already or whether you may/may not venture out to them.

One of the hottest trends this Summer has been the cool, fresh white-on-white that has swept its way down the runway. I have picked out for you some on my own fashion items that have lent a breezy air to my outfits this summer. Hope you like them!


1. Sheer Embroidered White Top
First up is this timeless sheer, turtle-neck top from Primark. I adore the high neck and the embroidery on this gives this top its classy feel. The lightweight sheer characteristic will no doubt keep you cool on those particularly warm days. If you want to layer it, A soft V-neck cardi will add a bit of prep-ster to the look whilst still showing off the embroidery. For jewelry add a mid-length pendant.


2. The Crisp White Shirt
The white shirt is a wardrobe staple and more so this Summer. This Next shirt is well tailored, slim and sharp and there are a multitude of ways it can be worn. For that cool, casual androgynous look turn up the sleeves go for colored chinos, to give it a feminine twist you cannot go wrong with a high-wasted belted skirt.


3. The White Blazer
This blazer from H&M has been a particular favorite for me this summer. I throw it on when I want to cover up but still stay cool. It can be teamed with quite literally anything! Block colors, bright colors, patterns, short dresses, trousers and even maxis. It is a truly versatile piece that softens the character of your outfits and adds a touch of gentleness.


4. The White Maxi
I stumbled upon this halter-neck beauty some time ago in Republic. It is loose an airy and comfortable to wear but also glamourous with its mettalic crinkled finish and gold clasps and tassels. Perfect for garden parties, you can swan around feeling like a Grecian princess sipping fresh fruity drinks.
Strappy sandals are the way to go with this dress, flat or heeled and thick bronze bangles.


5. The White Trousers
These are in fact jeggings from Zara Basics. I love the super soft stretchy material and the gold zip detail from ankles to calf (see instagram for more pictures). Again this is super versatile and can be worn with practically anything. I particularly love how they bring out the color of my oh-so-loved shoes.

So that's it for my summer fashion essentials. Let me know how you like them and also what your personal preferences for this summer are.xx

I discovered this shade in the winter and fell in love with it. It is one that I get loads of complements for when I wear it and have inspired several friends and family members to also purchase it for themselves. One thing that I love about this lipstick is that it is so easy to wear and complements a range of skin tones. For that reason I have been meaning to write a post on it, it is a little overdue but my preference has not changed.

Summer calls for some major adjustments to not only what form of makeup we wear but also how we wear it in order to stay looking flawless in the heat, humidity and exposure to the sun. As not everyday is the same, I have come up with 3 ways to wear your face to suit how your skin is feeling, moving from sheer to heavier coverage.

1. Sheer Coverage:
I actually only tried this yesterday. I have noticed that my skin has gradually become ever so slightly tanned, not a great deal, but enough for my foundation to look sickly strange on my face. Without foundation my face had some glow to it and my yellow undertones were more prominent.

In order to make the most of it, I applied my usual moisturizer, followed by my Garnier Ambre Solaire sunscreen, something I have now incorporated into my morning skincare routine. It has a thick creamy moisturizing consistency which makes my face feel less bare. There is also a lotion-y milk version of this is prefer something more lightweight. While it is not oily it does leave a shine.

I then applied my Rimmel Stay Matte powder with a soft all over face brush, concentrating on my T Zone and lightly dusting over the rest of my face. This will both reduce the shine and gently even out the skin tone leaving no patches or streaks.

This is great if you want to let your skin show through but still want even skin without feeling cake-y. Amazingly lightweight and natural.

Those of you with dry skin, such as myself, we tend to be weary of applying powder directly to the skin, but the double moisturizing will prevent your skin from drying out.

2. Light Coverage
I use my Missha B Perfect Cover BB cream when I want a small amount of coverage and to reduce pigmentation. Again I apply it straight after moisturizer, the creamy consistency of this makes it best applied with your fingertips. Follow this with powder to set and reduce shine.

3. Medium Coverage:
This method is for when I have increased imperfections on your skin but still need something moisturizing and light. Take your daily foundation, mine is currently Bourjois Healthy Mix, pump out a single pump on to the back of your hand and mix it with the same amount of your moisturizer. it can now be applied either with fingers or a brush all over the face. Then powder and go!

Of course, with any of these method you can use concealer to problem areas which requires extra coverage i.e. under the eyes, around nose and mouth and on any blemishes and imperfections before you powder.

I find each of these techniques give me a lovel healthy and flawless finish and still allow my skin to breath.

No makeup natural dewy look:
If you do not want to wear much more makeup, then you can finish your look by blending a lighter colored concealer before powder to the top of your cheekbones, bringing it down and pointing up towards the highest point of your nose in a V shape and also down the ridge of your nose, chin area and forehead. An additional contour color is not required as the highlighter automatically creates shadows everywhere else on the face. This way you can give your face shape without having to use many products.

Follow this with curled lashes and apply mascara to open up your eyes and give you the look of being wide awake.

Blend in a soft natural blush color to your cheek bones, I like to use a cream based one.

and finish with a slick of tinted lip balm!

I would love to know which of the 3 foundation routines you prefer this summer or let me how you would apply it differently.