Beauty Talk: Back to Basics

Taking everything back to basics, it's certainly been a while since I nattered beauty bases. Starting from scratch, it's taken a while (and a hella lotta foundation over the years) to discover what works right for my skin and ultimately, realising that my teen skin is something of the past (spots included, amen) and the need for fuller coverage isn't needed. 

A tailor made selection, here is what I reach for on a daily basis:

Luminous Silk Foundation - Armani ∙ Full Cover Concealer - MUF ∙ Dry Oil - Nuxe ∙ Face Powder - Chanel ∙ Eyelash Primer - Dior ∙ Moon Beam - Benefit ∙ Eyeshadow Primer - Nars    

Gliding on effortlessly, the sheer coverage of Armani Luminous Silk Foundation blurs away any blemishes and creates a your-skin-but-better look. Feeling fresh and light, it provides a slightly dewy glow without leaving you shiny come mid-afternoon. A force to be reckoned with, the MUF high coverage is thick but highly pigmented, covering blemishes to under eye circles with utter ease. Finishing with a light dusting of the finely milled Chanel's Loose Powder (serous indulgence) to set the foundations and keep in place all day, this baby will keep you going forever.

Prepping the eyes has become a must during the 9-5 day, looking no further than the Nars eyeshadow primer to keep shadow and liner stay in place all day, without migrating south. A product I keep on the back burner is the Dior mascara primer, perfect for look-at-me lashes come evening or reviving a nearly finished mascara, the primer coating works nothing short of a miracle in boosting volume and lengthening lashes to the extreme. 

Last but by no means least, the heavenly scented Nuxe oil has become a permeant fixture in pampering my skin come evening. Sinking in quickly and leaving my face soft and supple come morning, I'm tempted to slather my entire self (though that sounds rather costly). Finally, Benefit's Moon Beam steals the show for summer. Whether mixed in with my foundation or lightly dabbed along the cheek bone, it subtly highlights and creates that lusted-after glow. 

There you have it, my back to basics for summer. Soon to be added into the mix is the Khiels facial suncream that I recently sampled, so lightweight. What products do you turn to in the warmer months? 

JET, SET, GO! Holiday Packing List

There's an age-old saying that travel makes you richer in ways you couldn't imagine. If there was ever a rule to live your life by, I would say that tops the list. Wherever you're jetting off to this summer, whether it be a stolen weekend away in the city or sunshine-filled adventure, make your holiday packing a stress-free zone with this handy list I rustled up over the weekend... 

Download the PDF version here: PACK LIKE A PRO with City Girl's Fashion Box

As an avid list maker, holiday packing can be a stress inducing nightmare. Long gone are the days of last-minute sitting on your suitcase to squeeze in those last pair of heels (that we both know you'll never wear!). It's time to get savvy. From collecting a stash of product miniatures around the year to stuff in your beauty stash to creating outfit combos for day and night, it's all about being practical - creating a capsule wardrobe is always the winning formula. 

  Top packing tips to beat the travelling woes: 

∙ Stay clear of a check-in meltdown and store all of your important travel documents in a safe see-through pouch - this clutch from New Look is bang on perfect - also doubles up as a great valuables case in your beach bag! 

∙ A typical Brit abroad, I never travel without a stash of peppermint teabags. A perfect remedy for settling an upset stomach and a great stress reliever, not to mention they beat the over indulgence buffet bloat.

∙ Always pack a Dove soap instead of shower gel, it's easier to carry (no leakages) and perfect to shave with!

∙ Bring along a cheap pair of exfoliating mitts to pro-long that tan, the easiest way to buff the body on holiday.

∙ When travelling to an exotic destination, keep your hair in check with an army of hair masks, oils and treatments. Lock in the moisture and beat the holiday frizz with leave-in heat protectors and treat your do' to multiple masks.

∙ Roll up a few plastic bags in your suitcase for dirty laundry upon your return, perfect for bikinis (espesh if you're swimming before your flight!) and knickers

∙ Play safe and make sure to note down all your important contact details, theft numbers to insurance details, photo copy your passport and make note of your phone service provider. A ten minute chore on home ground could be your lifesaver in foreign territory. 

∙ Packing that dress/blouse/skirt that always creases? Hang it up whilst taking a shower on hols and let the hot steam magically unravel those creases.

∙ Travelling with a group of friends? Invest in a multi-pack of clear coloured folders to stash everyones money safely, separately and securely in the apartment safe

∙ You can't beat an cosy pair of socks for the plane or walking around your hotel room, slather your poor feet in moisturiser after showering as sand can really take a toll on your tootsies!

This summer I'm travelling to the US, hitting up four different destinations - so please feel free to leave your own holiday packing tips and tricks in the comments below. And don't forget to let me know where you're jetting off to this summer!

Simple Treasures: Z collection by Accessorize

From Kate Spade to Monica Vinader, my beautiful work friend Nicola has the most divine taste in jewellery. Swooning over her latest office show and tell, we instantly fell head over heels for the new Z collection from Accessorize.

Designed exclusively for their 30th anniversary by Zara Simon, the daughter of the man behind the brand, the intricately gold plated collection is a treasure chest of jewelled perfection. From dainty necklaces designed to be layered, enchanting semi precious stones and refined rings that are stacked to perfection, no wonder the collection has been so highly sought after - it's a precious find.

Naturally, I hotfooted it down to the King's Road branch and treated myself to the beautiful Aura Precious Stone ring. Gold plated and fitting wonderfully, Zara Simons has certainly brought the brand bang up to speed and I simply can't wait to see what other fine pieces she designs for Accessorize. 

Galaxy Pave Necklace ∙ Constellation Midi Ring Set ∙ Aura Pendant Necklace ∙ Pink Aura Precious Stone Necklace ∙ Green Aura Precious Stone Bracelet  ∙  Wishbone Midi Ring Set ∙ White Aura Precious Stone Necklace ∙ Heart Chain Bracelet ∙ Green Aura Precious Stone Ring ∙ Delicate Crystal Bar Necklace 

Will you be checking out the Z collection from Accessorize?

How To: Frozen Yogurt Fruit Buttons

With the beautiful weather here to stay, the first thing on my agenda this week has been finding ways to stay cool. Whilst the temptation of endless ice-creams and ice frappuccinos is appealing to my naughty nature, however i've found myself throughly enjoying these frozen yogurt fruit buttons. Effortlessly easy and rather delicious, I've been freezing batches to enjoy as sweet treat come evening

Simply dollop a teaspoon of the yogurt of your choosing (I picked peach) onto a grease proof paper lined baking tray, then added some sliced fresh strawberries to decorate. Then popped into the freezer for a couple of hours, bob's your uncle - peel each button off carefully and scoff immediately. Delish.

If you fancied, you could also blend your own fruity concoction using a blender and fat free greek yogurt with an array of fruits of your choice. Next on my list to try is mango!

How do you stay cool in this wonderful weather? I can remember being in Cuba and the only drink ice cold from the tap was the local beer, must have been why I headed back the following year, eh! 

Wish List: Jet Setting Style Covered

Whether you're jet-setting off to somewhere exotic or planning an exciting city break, nothing beats shopping for the ultimate holiday wardrobe. In need of a little inspiration, I naturally hunted high and low to bring you my top picks to have you jet-setting in style to where ever you may be heading...

Cotton Teddy - Topshop ∙ Mini Pink Bag - Next ∙ Twist Sandals - Accessorize ∙ Spot Bikini - Topshop  ∙ Gem Sandals - River Island ∙ Bon Voyage Pouch - Alphabet Bags

 Floral Jumpsuit - River Island ∙ Sundress - Topshop ∙ Floral Shorts - Accessorize ∙ Nude Clutch - New Look ∙ Floral Bikini - River Island

Trilby - Accessorize ∙ Blue Print Bikini - Topshop ∙ Stud Sandals - Warehouse ∙ White Cut Out Blouse - River Island ∙ Tan Sandals - New Look ∙ 99 Problems Tote - Alphabet Bags

Whilst the prospect of bikini browsing strikes fear into my very soul, with the likes of Topshop (this particular swimsuit made me squeal out loud) and River Island serving up some stylish options, I'm really rather taken with the longer bodied bikini tops. A flattering fit, with a rather retro feel indeed. 

Keeping things tongue in cheek as ever, Alphabet Bags have certainly come up trumps with their travel range of totes and pouches, the beach bag certainly plays true to my love of Jay and I love a good pouch to stash all my important travel bits and bobs in - avoiding that pre-checkin meltdown where you can't find your passport is always a winner in my books. 

In need of a compact bag for some city exploring, the diddy pink offering from Next is absolutely tiny, but perfect for stashing card, keys and phone. Plus, holiday wardrobes almost certain call for a splash of hot pink right?

Where are you jetting off to this summer? My family and I will taking road trip (minus the driving) around the states. Major squeal with excitement. More on this soon!

Tom Ford: Frantic Pink

Frantic Pink - Tom Ford

Completely shattered, both me and the Tom Ford blush are feeling alike. An unfortunate bumpy plane ride aside, Frantic Pink is hands down the most indulgent beauty piece I have tucked away. Effortlessly beautiful, this stunning peachy pink is the perfect balance between both hues. With a subtle sheen, it instantly brightens your complexion. With the lightest of dustings on my brush, the intensely pigmented blush offers the most natural flush. Silky soft and incredibly long lasting, I believe I have just kick started a pricy love affair with Mr Ford. 

Who knew you could get so deep over a pop of peachy pink?
The gold accent on the packaging does indeed make me go weak at the knees.
However, this was a duty free purchase, therefore, totally justified.
And yes, I had a little weep when I saw it had smashed.

Is it worth dropping the big bucks? Of course. Just shred your bank statement. 

Have you ever tried anything from the highly sought after TF? 

Style: The Perfect Tee

For as long as I can remember I've been on the quest to hunt out the perfect grey marl and white t-shirt. You know, the effortlessly cool, loosely chic offerings that those NY girls wear so well. They also tend to have super shiny hair and a deep tan - me, jealous you say? Of course. Not too sheer, or too snug, the perfect white tee teams fabulously with jeans for casual cool or dressed up to the 9's with a slick of lipstick and a statement jewel. Lets say a warm welcome to the J.Crew Vintage Tee. The hunt is finally over.

A lightweight slub cotton, J.Crew set out to replicate their favourite thrift-store tee and in 2004 their iconic vintage tee was born. The result boats a soft heathered texture that flatters any shape. Horrendously overpriced in the UK (£29!), It wasn't until I headed into to the J.Crew outlet stores in New Jersey last year did I manage to stock up. Snapped up at the steal-worthy price of $11, I bought as many as I could squish in my suitcase. True to their name, they are incredibly soft (hence the price tag) and never reveal the ghastly bra line shape, plus brownie points for surviving multiple batterings in the washing machine and living to tell the tale.

A purse-friendly option, with just the same quality (though, not quite as soft) are Gap's offerings. At less than ten bucks, they will set you up for summer and become a trusty staple in your wardrobe. Keep your eyes peeled for their frequent offers and stock up.

I promise you I'm not a fully fledged t-shirt addict, well.. er. Where do you shop for trusty tees?

How To: The Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe

Over the last couple of posts, I've touched on my now capsule wardrobe and the length at which it took me to get there. Tired of prising open my overflowing wardrobe and finding nothing to wear (so cliche) I decided to embark on creating the perfect capsule wardrobe. I like to think I know my style pretty well, gliding towards classic pieces with feminine touches yet desperately in need of colour and print, this was finally my chance to invest in key items that I would wear season after season.

All that awaited me in my closet however, was a hot mess of barely worn throwaways, clashing outfits and ill-fitting forgotten pieces. Pairing back my wardrobe was hard, as a hoarder I became brutal and for a while, I was pretty naked in terms of wearing the same thing over.

Now I'm slowly adding pieces into my wardrobe that I love, rather than lust over for a quick five minutes. Building outfits, embracing colour and prints, investing in better quality - I'm throughly enjoying starting from scratch.

Don't you just wish you could start all over again? Here's your chance. This is how I paired back my wardrobe...

• Take a good look at your wardrobe, sort every thing into piles and on closer inspection ask your self: what do you have most of, what do you lack, why do you never wear this? Wardrobe lessons I realised: I buy the wrong sizes on a whim (knitwear should not be tight-fitting), lack colour is boring (I'm in my twenties!) and nothing, I repeat nothing in my wardrobes works together.

•  All those pieces you once lusted after but never seemed to make the light of day? Be cut-throat and get rid. Donate to charity, list on eBay or if you really can't bare to part, give your self a month to work it in your style, if it never ventures out of your wardrobe - you know what to do.

• With the initial worries that a) I would quite literally have nothing to wear (one can't quite simply turn up to work naked) b) I would never be able to afford to replace the pieces I evicted, the 'experience' actually led me to fall in love all over again with the pieces I already own. Pushing me to be more experimental and styling items up in different ways. Who knew shopping your wardrobe would be so eye-opening? Even after uncovering the mountain of clothes I stash in underbed storage, I found items that I never knew existed. Guilty!

• A few months on, while I am currently hard-core saving for my summer holiday (more on this soon)  I have taken a whole new approach to buying clothes. As a slave to Topshop's New In page, I simply 'pin' my online shopping faves to my Pinterest boards and let it brood as to whether I really need it. Same goes for Asos Saved List, a wonderful tool for keeping track of when your must-haves come on sale, it's all about judging not a quick fix. And yes, I totally compared shopping to a fix of coke.

• Moving swiftly on, I'm also looking at different shopping haunts in a new light. Long gone are the days I would drop forty quid in Topshop on a blouse when Zara rival's are quite literally half price, Gap has become my new go-to for quality knits and basics, and Accessorize have certainly caught my eye with their range of statement jewels, beach wear and sandals.

So there you have it, as I slowly re-build my wardrobe and I hope you found some of these tips and tricks useful. It by no means takes the fun out of shopping (casually glancing at the Zara sale here with credit card in hand), it just about making better decisions.

Now tell me, what's your wardrobe situ?

Beauty Talk: Power Brows with Kiko

When the beauty genetics were being dished out, I completely missed the boat on the eyebrow front. Blessed with blonde sparse brows, it's taken me a good few years to fully appreciate the notion of filling in one's brows. Framing your face and opening up your eye area seems so effortlessly easy, that is if you've got the tools for the job.

Flirting with the likes of Mac, Clinique and Anastasia push up brow pencils, they were all equally equip for the role, but whizzing through each pencil became a costly affair. Notoriously hard to find a high-street option in a convincing blonde shade (since when has anyone had brick coloured brows Rimmel?) I was intrigued to hear Ameila's recommendation of the Kiko Brow Pencil.

Precision Eyebrow Pencil - Kiko

Admittedly, Kiko is a brand that I previously haven't come across, stepping into their Westfield branch I was faced with awful customer service but impressed buy their brow offerings. Hastily snapping up their brow pencil in shade 4 at a budget friendly price of a fiver, I was surprisingly impressed.

Thinner in shape than your average pencil, the Kiko offering is easier to handle, ensuring an ease for precision with no mistakes made. With a range of shades on offer, the ashy blonde shade provides a natural looking application. Paired with a brow comb and accompanied by it's very own sharpener, it seems Kiko have ticked every beauty brow brow. And for that, I'm sold!

Have you ever tried anything from the brand Kiko? What products do you swear by for your brows?

Beauty Talk: Fancy a dip?

Fancy a Dip? - Rimmel (£2.99)

I may have enough nail varnish to sink a small ship, but that didn't stop me from adding this charming cornflower blue shade to my collection. Quite the Essie addict, I was surprisingly impressed with the formula of this cheap-as-chips Rimmel polish, seriously creamy and buildable in two coats, Fancy a Dip? has put a step in my spring-time blues. Perfect with or without a tan, it's a nice change from the minty hues I gravitate to come summer.

Have you tried any polishes from the Rimmel line? I felt like I had reverted back to my tweens, in a good way like..

Style: Stepping into the Tropics

Military Tank Top - Topshop ∙ Flower Print Trousers - Zara ∙ Necklace - Forever 21

My first foray into print this summer was none other than my floral Accessorize find (as seen here), taking it to the next level I went down the tropical route with a pair from Zara. Taking the next size up, they fit like a dream - who doesn't love a trend that rivals being in your pjs all day? Whether paired with a khaki blouse and sandals for daywear or slinging over a bikini on the beach, come holiday this daring purchase will soon become a staple. Not bad for a sale buy eh?

Apologies for my resting bitch face, I'm smiling on the inside, promise.

Have you bought in on the printed trouser trend?

Beauty Talk : Feeling Peachy

Feeling peachy? You betcha. Over the past week I've certainly been crushing over the corals in my beauty stash. Reaching for a couple of new additions, unsung heroes and makeup must-haves, this week's beauty notes features none other than...

Laguna Blush Duo - Nars ∙ Barbarella Lipstick - Nars ∙ Jest Eyeshadow - Mac ∙ Tipsy Blush - Tarte   

- Nars Barbarella, a lipstick bought on a total whim, it's not quite  your average coral - it's much more muted and underplayed. Paired with freckles and some colour, the apricot hue is sheer and feminine finish for day or night-time.

- Mac's Jest is a shadow I just can't stray from. A shimmer of champagne, becoming a must-have staple in my routine, it seamlessly pairs with almost any look. Transforming you into a bright-eyed beauty, I've also found myself using the iconic Nars Laguna bronzer as an shadow crease shade to add definition and a smoked out look. 

- Tarte's Tipsy was a Sephora purchase hailing all the way from the states. A bright blush to behold, the long lasting nature coupled with a pinch of coral perfection on the high points of your cheeks livens up your complexion in an instant.  

What hues do you reach for come summer? Let me know your coral choices in the comments below!