Pretty In (Powder) Blue

Matching Top and Skirt - Zara 

Trench Coat - Zara 

Sandals - H&M

Bag - Whistles

I have wanted this clutch bag from Whistles for quite some time now - so when my boyfriend decided to treat me on a shopping trip before our holiday (after quite a few hints and a little persuasion) I was only happy to accept! My wardrobe is pretty much monochrome, and as tempting as it was to stick to black or white, I thought the powder blue would brighten up my holiday wardrobe. It's safe to say it's my new favourite accessory. I bought this co-ord from Zara last winter, however it's a perfect transitional piece for a cool summer's day. Patterns are not really my thing - personally plain and simple wins every time - however this co-ord was definitely an exception. I teamed it with my cream trench coat, again something I bought last winter but is perfect for all year round. 

Mollie x

My Summer Beauty Essentials

Smashbox 'Luminizing Photo Finish Foundation Primer', Benefit 'Girl Meets Pearl', Clarins 'Joli Rouge Lipstick 711', Organix 'Argan Oil of Morocco - Penetrating Oil', Victoria Secret 'Passion Struck Fragrance Mist'

I have always been somewhat of a hoarder when it came to all things beauty. I have three make up bags that I use on a daily basis; one consisting of make up, the second skin care products and the third hair products - and I manage to fill an extra one whenever I go away. But I have come to realise that this is probably a little unnecessary and sometimes plain inconvenient. So whilst being away on holiday, I have tried to use as little products as possible, mainly to see what I can get away with. This has left me with the products pictured above becoming my summer beauty essentials. 

Even with a tan, I still feel I need a little something extra (as I suspect many females do) to even out my complexion. I have mentioned this 'Luminizing Photo Finish Foundation Primer' from Smashbox in a previous post (see here) and, with a tan, it really is the best primer I have used. It can often dry out the skin a little so moisturising first is essential. It evens out skin tone and has, for the time being, replaced my foundation. 

I love skin with a dewy finish and this highlighter from Benefit;'Girl Meets Pearl', helps achieve this look. I have been applying it on top of the primer to create a glowing complexion.

I have numerous lipsticks that I alternate between on a daily basis however this 'Joli Rouge Lipstick in Papaya - 711' by Clarins is my favourite for everyday wear throughout the summer. The colour is gorgeous and perfectly compliments sun kissed skin. Unlike cheaper brands it stays put for hours and moisturises the lips without looking too glossy. 

Over the years - after continuous use of heated hair appliances - I have tried numerous hair products that claim to protect and strengthen hair. I have been happy with very few however my recent discovery in the 'Penetrating Oil' from Organix has left my hair feeling and looking healthier than ever. By applying the thick oil before blow drying almost creates a protective coating on the hair leaving it silky and replenished. 

Victoria Secret have a huge range of beauty products and a favourite of mine - as I know is a favourite of many others too - is their collection of body sprays. They are perfectly suited for summer as the smells are long lasting, refreshing and easy wearing - not to mention how pretty the bottles look. This one in particular, 'Passion Struck', is one I couldn't resist purchasing in duty free!

Enjoy!