Top 7 Things in my Handbag for Summer

These are a few things you can find in my Handbag on any given summer's day...

 

1. Wallet
(Obviously)

 

2. Glamour Magazine
For when you need to pass some time.

 

3. Wet wipes
I use these from Kleenex because they can be used on your face too. Perfect for summer in the sun.

 

4. Hand cream
I can't live without hand cream.

 

5. Smint
I am absolutely addicted to these. Fresh breath without chewing gum.

 

6. Make-up touch ups
I usually carry a little concealer and a lip gloss or lip stick to take my look from dat to night. From beach to sunset cocktails.

 

7. Light perfume
This perfume by Clarins is perfect for summer. It smells like sailing on a luxury yatch through the Greek Islands.

 

My love for Coffee

Are you are like me who cannot get through the morning without my coffee?

Well my lovely friends I have a recipe for a healthier Iced coffee to make at home for the summer time...

 

 

Ingredients

Coffee

(Instant, Filter or Espresso pod)

Pinch of Salt

(reduce bitterness)

Sugar or Sweetener

Milk

Ice

 

 

Directions

Start by making a very small amount of strong coffee.

 

If you are using Instant or Filter coffee then I use a 1:3 ratio of coffee to boiling water.

 

Add the salt and sugar.

 

The amount of sugar is really up to you as to how sweet you like your Coffee.

 

Add the Ice to your drinking glass then add the coffee.

 

Top the glass up with milk.

 

Pop in a straw and enjoy!

 

xoxo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Nails on a Budget

 

So towards the end of the month our pockets start to feel pretty skinny but this won't stop us from letting our nails still look fabulous... Here's how I do it... 

 

 

STEP 1

PREP THE NAIL

 

 I cannot stress this enough, it is as important as looking after your own skin. Prepping is vital for taking care of the nail bed & for the lasting of your nail polish. Start by using a strengthening or moisturising nail polish remover and don't forget to remove all the dirt from under your nails (yuck). Once cleaned, file the edges of the nail then moving onto removing the nail ridges on the nail bed. Next smooth the nail bed and finally shine the nail. I personally don't shine my nails if I am going to put a polish over as it is enough shine for me.

It makes your nails look gorgeous when bare.

 

 

STEP 2

REMOVE CUTICLES

 

I love the Sally Hansen Cuticle Eraser & Balm. It softens the cuticles enough to remove them and create the perfect nail bed. I'd recommend you do this at least an hour before you start the painting process and clear it off the nail, as I find the balm is a bit 'waxy' and doesn't let the polish stick. simply put a little of the balm on your cuticles and push back with a nail stick.

 

 

OPTIONAL STEP

MOISTURISE AND CLEAR

 

I find this step as an added bonus, 'A personal relaxing step' if you will. Choose a good hand and nail cream, balm or butter and massage it into your hands and wrists. this just makes your little paws pretty and radiant. If you do this step, don't forget to use a cotton pad to remove the cream, balm or butter from your nails before you start the next step.

 

  

STEP 3

POLISH IT

 

I have found an awesome long-lasting gel polish made by Essence. There is no need for a lamp and it gives an awesome gel finish. It's so good that often my friends have asked where I had my nails done.

 

The tip to getting an even polish is to start by wiping half of the brush on the inside of the polish bottle. Then start in the middle of the nail by the cuticle and pull down with firm pressure and move over to the furthest side from you and then back to the other side. Do a once over to smooth out any missed places and gathering of polish. Don't forget to leave the polish to dry each time you do a coat.

  

Lets start off with a Base coat. This preps the nail for the colour coat to stick better and reduce the chance of chipping.

 

 

 Once dry do a coat or two of your favourite colour polish depending on how strong the colour is and how strong you want the colour to be. Often two coats is just the right amount. You can use any colour polish by any brand.

 

 

Now to seal the deal, coat your pretty nail with the top coat to add shine and help reduce chipping.

 

Now to finish off, use a Corrector pen to take away any smudges or imperfections.

 

STEP 4

SIT BACK AND ENJOY

 

Your nails should last you up to a week or two, just don't forget to buy a pair of gloves to wash the dishes. Now go show off your beautiful nails.

xoxo



My Summer Essentials

 

So seen that we can pretty much start smelling Summer, I thought I'd share my summer essentials list with you.

 

I cannot go any where without these items. There is nothing quite like the smell of sun-cream to float you back into that summer daze where the beaches are hot but the water is cool, where the cocktails are just a little more tasty and where Sundays are what you look forward to.

 

 

Clockwise from top left

Mr Price Slouchy Tee, Consol glass water bottle, Camera, Scented candle, Lovisa Watch,

Labello Hydro Care lipice, Clicks Tan Enhancing Sun-cream, Billabong Bikini, Denim shorts, Pedro's Eyewear Vintage Eyewear, Pick 'n Pay Fresh Living Magazine,

Miss Leigh Flower head band, Mr Price Sandles

 

 

Now that we have what we need to make it through summer 

let's sit back on those pool floats and sip on Carrie's Favourite cocktail.

 

See you by the pool!

xoxo

Happy Sunday Funday everyone!

What is everyone up to?