The Best Winter Candles


I'm a fan of scented candles whatever the weather, but there's something about dark evenings (and afternoons!) that makes me appreciate them even more. These are my top three for the festive season...


Jo Malone Incense & Embers. Need I say more? I'm pretty sure the name alone is enough to convince you how gorgeous this is. There's something distinctly celestial about this scent, which is definitely more incense than embers. Not the type I burned at uni... but the kind of alluring smokiness that might waft through the air as you stroll by a beautiful golden temple on a heady evening (I'm there now - in my head - grounded only by the cuppa and Rich Tea next to me). Incense & Embers smells rich and reassuring, with leather and amber lifted by vetiver and fir... perfect for this time of year.


Field Day candles (formerly Bog Standard) are made a few miles up the road from me and the limited edition Winter scent is hands down my favourite. Its maker has mastered the traditional festive cocktail of cinnamon, clove and orange - which I usually shy away from - quite beautifully. Field Day Winter throws quite a lot of scent, yet has a sophisticated softness to it that smells much more expensive than its very reasonable price tag (£13.95). It reminds me of the kitchen while baking Christmas cake, with a pot of mulled wine simmering on the stove... I'd happily gift this to everyone I know for Christmas, confident that it would be a winner. I've been burning it a lot and everyone who comes into the house comments on how lovely it is. Very importantly (to me) - this is not so overtly festive that you couldn't burn it long into the New Year. Don't hang about though, a wee bird tells me there's not many left.


Neom Perfect Peace is an uplifting, soothing scented candle made with 25 (!!!) essential oils including pine, myrrh and lime. I prefer it to Neom's traditional Christmas Wish fragrance and think it makes a particularly good choice for daytime burning, perhaps even on The Big Day itself? It makes a striking centrepiece and I have a feeling it would work well paired with a glass of something sparkling, a theory I may need to put to the test...

What's your favourite Winter candle?


Products featured on Strawberry Blonde Beauty include press samples & purchases and some links are affiliate. See my full disclaimer here.
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Glowing Everyday Beauty


I love glowy makeup all year round, particularly in Winter when I need a little help to brighten my complexion... here are my current go-to products for instant everyday radiance.


Applied under foundation, Amazing Cosmetics' new Illuminate Primer in Glow adds a subtle radiance that catches the light in a very natural way. As I'm greedy for the glow, I like to use it both under and over foundation, patting a little onto tops of cheekbones and browbones. This adds a silvery white highlight that works particularly well on pale skin, adding a naturally luminous effect rather than high-beam highlight. This sheer, water based formula - also available in Rose and Bronze - is more about brightening the complexion than prolonging your makeup.


Clarins Everlasting Cushion foundation adds a light to medium veil of hydrating coverage with SPF 50. This is the first cushion product I've tried and while initially sceptical, I love how quick and easy it is to use, allowing me to do my base in seconds. It applies well with the compact, a brush or beauty blender, though I find a brush works best. Coverage is lightweight and buildable, leaving a natural looking skinlike finish with a little glow. I'm not sure about the everlasting claims but the light compact with built in mirror is so perfect for touch ups that I'm happy to let that slide. (I have the shade 103 Ivory)


Trish McEvoy Liquid Face Colour is my new blush crush: a sheer liquid formula in a pretty pink twist-up, brush-on tube. The soft pinky peach tones of Shade 1 bring life to my cheeks, instantly adding a wide-awake, post-forest-walk effect. The formula is easier to apply than most and so much more flattering and forgiving than powder.


I tend to wear lipgloss a lot in Winter... it has a similar effect to highlighter in adding a little life to the face and Pixi Lip Lift Max is an old favourite that I always go back to. Worn alone, with liner or over lipstick, it plumps, smooths and just works. I veer between this and Sheer Rose, a beautiful dusky pink in the same formula.


Daytime glitter is totally a thing, especially on the cusp of party season - and it doesn't come much prettier than Topshop nail polish in Unicorn. This coats nails with rainbow micro glitter in a sheer peach base for subtle sparkle on nude nails or layered up to make a deeper shade twinkle.


A citrus scent may seem an odd choice for a November perfume, but I can't get enough of Pomelo Paradis - and as it makes me glow from the inside, I felt it appropriate to include here! Atelier Cologne recently opened a counter in my local House of Fraser (Belfast) and the first time I spritzed this on counter it made me smile so much it had to be mine. With notes of pomelo, orange blossom and vetiver, I can't imagine a more feel good scent!



Products featured on Strawberry Blonde Beauty include press samples & purchases and some links are affiliate. See my full disclaimer here.
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Jo Malone Star Magnolia Hair Mist: Review


Jo Malone London has released its first ever hair mist in new Limited Edition scent, Star Magnolia. 

Star Magnolia is fresh and bright, a crisp yet gently creamy white floral, with notes of magnolia leaf and orange blossom alongside lemon, ginger and shiso (an aromatic Asian herb). Also available in cologne, I find it quite youthful yet sophisticated and think it will appeal to a wide age range.

The Hair Mist is perfect for anyone who wants to take fragrance layering to a new level, fancies a lighter way to wear scent or whose skin can not tolerate perfume. While this isn't my typical go-to scent, it's perfect for Spring and I've really enjoyed wearing it. We've had beautiful warm sunny weather this week and it's been great to spritz my hair with this rather than applying perfume on top of sunscreen.


If making my hair smell good was its only asset, I'd probably opt for the cologne instead, but I find the hair mist surprisingly functional. It acts as a great finishing product on my easily weighed down hair, adding a delicate mist of lightly conditioning definition and shine, with a waft of scent every time my hair moves. And don't even start me on the white ombre bottle and (removable) floral collar. 


Jo Malone London Star Magnolia is a Limited Edition scent available in 30 or 100ml Cologne and 30ml Hair Mist, available now. It's just launched and selling out fast already... find the range here or here. 


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Jo Malone Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense: Review


Myrrh & Tonka is the latest addition to the Jo Malone Cologne Intense line... and a must-try if you enjoy sensual, smoky scents.

There's no two ways about it; this is one sexy fragrance and smells great on both men and women. Without exception, everyone I've asked to try this finds it as swoony as I do... and of all the Cologne Intense scents, this is my No1.

"The rich, potent sap of the Namibian myrrh tree... mingling with whispers of warm almond and lush vanilla... the addictive tonka bean."



I was surprised to read of lavender top notes as I didn't catch these at all, so don't be put off if like me, you're not a fan. There's an oriental herbal freshness on first spritz that quickly turns smoky before the myrrh kicks in, eventually settling to sophisticated vanilla and almond.

I've heard some describe Myrrh & Tonka as sweet; to me the dry down is a musky, woody gourmand - soft and creamy, but not quite sweet. A gentle oriental smokiness remains as this scent wears on my skin and I can't help thinking that it would make a beautiful candle.

Fragrance Director, Céline Roux describes it as "decadent... addictive... warm and opulent" - and I completely agree. To me, it conjures a log cabin with open fires on the edge of a forest... close my eyes and I'm there (I wish).

I think Myrrh & Tonka will be hugely popular and am pleased that the Cologne Intense line is now available in slightly more accessible 50ml bottles (cute, squat and square). These scents have a richness and lasting power beyond that of regular Jo Malone colognes and I find that they work particularly well in Winter.

Jo Malone Myrrh & Tonka is available now in 50ml or 100ml  in the UK (find it here in the US).


Products featured on Strawberry Blonde Beauty include press samples and some links are affiliate. See my full disclaimer here.


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Fragrance by Occasion


It can be tricky knowing where to begin when choosing a new fragrance, so I thought I'd share some inspo for that last minute gift or self-treat to wear over the party season. A good starting point place is to think when the perfume will be worn... everyday, special occasion or a head turning signature scent. I've divided these four scents up a little to give you a bit of a steer, though personally I mostly choose by mood, for which there are no strict rules. If I'm feeling a little flat I'll go for something invigorating; if stressed, something soft and soothing... again each of these will be personal tastes and your choices may differ from mine.


EVENING: YSL Black Opium EDT


The YSL Black Opium Collection includes 3 fragrances: the fruity green Eau de Toilette, gourmand floral Eau de Parfum and white floral Nuit Blanche. While I do like all three, I'm most drawn to the Eau de Toilette in its glittering black and rose gold bottle, pictured above. While slightly lighter than the others thanks to a luminous green coffee and jasmine tea, this sits firmly in the evening category for me, perched on a base of patchouli, white woods and musk. While perhaps not for the faint hearted, this is not cloying, but extremely wearable and sophisticated.


SENSUAL: Michael Kors Wonderlust


This is one of those perfumes that has grown on me the more I've worn it and definitely come into its own in colder weather. On me it sits quite close to the skin, is warm, sensual and very feminine, suitable for both day and evening wear. Bergamot, almond milk and cashmere wood are the stand out notes to me... I've previously done a full review here if you'd like to find out more about this one.


EVERYDAY: Clean Reserve Blonde Rose


This is one of the more intriguing scents I've tried and it seems to smell different on everyone. Initially very soft and feminine, the clean notes come through as it settles on the skin. With notes of rose, peony, jasmine, musk and sandalwood, the brand describe this as 'feminine with an edge', which I'd say is spot on. The branding, packaging and presentation box are stunning and together imake this the perfect choice for a gift.


UNISEX: Escentric Molecules Escentric 03


Woody, green and aromatic, the invigorating Escentric 03 is a definite feel-good fragrance. It opens with ginger root, green peppercorn and lime, with orris, jasmine and tea at the heart and a base of vetiver, woods, leather and musk. Much as I enjoy wearing this unisex scent, I think it leans slightly more masculine and hasn't managed to lure me from my old favourite, Escentric 02. A great choice if you fancy sharing!
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Luxury Beauty Gifts: Christmas 2016

I've selected my top 3 luxury beauty gifts from Jo Malone, Charlotte Tilbury and Laura Mercier, for a sprinkling of full-on festive glamour under the tree this Christmas. Or on your own dressing table... (I won't judge).

JO MALONE LONDON CHRISTMAS CRACKER 

Jo Malone London's annual Christmas Crackers are always a best seller and this year's couldn't get much better, not least because it includes my favourite Jo Malone scents. The three luxe minis inside are Basil & Neroli Cologne, Blackberry & Bay Body & Hand Wash and Mimosa & Cardamom Body Creme, each individually wrapped in black tissue.




Who wouldn't want to find one of these under their tree - or on the dinner table if your host is feeling extra generous! 

PS If you really do want to push the boat out, check out the Jo Malone Ultimate Christmas Cracker!


CHARLOTTE TILBURY MATTE REVOLUTION MINI LIPSTICK CHARMS

Charlotte Tilbury has brought back her darling Mini Lipstick Charms (see what I did there?) in both Matte Revolution and Kissing formulas For Christmas 2016 - and they're pretty much the cutest makeup item I have ever seen. The box is admittedly tiny (think large match box) but the contents oh so perfectly formed.


Each gold lipstick is tied with a purple satin ribbon that can be hung from a tree if you trust your fellow housemates implicitly. Personally I'll be clutching mine tightly, which reminds me... they really are the perfect size for a clutch bag. Festive party top-ups, sorted. 


The matte revolution formula feels creamy on lips with just enough movement to stop them being drying, yet retain a matte finish and good lasting power. The shades include options for every occasion: a nude, Very Victoria; mid pink, Amazing Grace and very festive Red Carpet Red.


LAURA MERCIER SWEET TEMPTATIONS AMBRE VANILLE LUXE BODY COLLECTION

I've worn Laura Mercier Ambre Vanille on and off since it first launched and this set provides the perfect opportunity to pair it with the entire body range for full on fragrance layering. Ambre Vanille Sweet Temptations Luxe Body Collection includes Honey Bath, Creme Body Wash, Souffle Body Creme and Eau de Toilette. All products are full size except for the handbag sized 20ml perfume.




Ambre Vanille is a sensual gourmande scent that's a little sweeter than Fresh Fig (another favourite) but fresher than Creme Brulee. I'm a definite fan.


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Autumn Candles

Since the clocks went back and darker nights set in, my love of candles has been rekindled and I've been burning one most days. Here are a few current favourites...
 

This is my second Rathbornes candle, hand poured in Dublin and made with pure essential oils. Wild Mint, Watercress & Thyme was inspired by aromatic herb gardens, with a blend of mint, lemon, eucalyptus, camphor, rosemary, thyme and ginger. For me this is an invigorating day time scent and an absolute breath of fresh air. The travel sized candles (£16) are a great way to try out the different scents. 



Charles Farris scented candles are made with premium ingredients encased in artesian hand-finished glass. The striking midnight blue makes a welcome change from the usual white or clear jars. The fragrance blends are picked by in-house perfumers and mine is Redolent Fig - an authentic blend of wild green fig leaves mixed with a hint of fruity cassis, soft florals and woody base notes. 


I've raved about Jo Malone Basil & Neroli already but had to include it as I've been burning it more than any other. Thankfully it's literally a slow burner and lasting well (read my full review here) ...if dark nights drag you down a little, this will lift your spirits while making your home smell incredible. Alternatively, Pine & Eucalyptus smells like walking through an enchanted Winter forest. 


L'Occitane Light up my Future is a limited edition fresh citrus candle, developed in partnership with Marie Claire to raise funds for the education of girls and young women in developing countries. I'll be picking up a few more of these (£8) as gifts in support of such a great cause. 


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Berrylicious Beauty


Looking up at the copper leaves in this morning's golden light, I thought I must write an Autumn beauty post before the branches become bare... so I've done a little berry picking and gathered a handful of favourites to share with you. Most definitely my favourite beauty season, I adore the rich Autumnal tones of berry, plum and copper - and how they bring life to paler skin and cold hands. I'm sticking to berries today, but no doubt I'll be back with more.


Clarins pull it out of the bag every year with their Essentials Eyeshadow Palette and this one is no exception. I don't tend to wear a lot of purples on my eyes, but this mix of rich and muted tones in matte, satin and shimmer finishes are very wearable. Dampen the brush to up the pigmentation levels... I like to use Smashbox Primer Water for this as it also boosts lasting power.


I probably use Kiko lipsticks more than any other brand. They aren't pricey and the quality is almost always superb. Enigma Lipstick in Theoretical Burgundy from the Neo Noir Collection is a dark vampy shade that adds instant drama. Pat on over balm for a more subtle look or pair with the matching lip liner and embrace the boldness. See me wearing it in this pic.

Jessica Nails Fruit of Temptation is The Most Perfect Plum nail polish. I have many and this blows the rest out of the water, plus the formula, gloss and lasting power are fantastic. It looks quite red in the bottle here but is a definite dark plum.


Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay never gets old and is one of my most worn perfumes ever. It works at any time of year but really comes into its own in Autumn. If you're dreading dark gloomy mornings already, you need this in your life... I'm rationing the last few drops.

Paul & Joe Kiss in the Park Lipstick is perfect for a daytime look or anyone who loves to add colour without looking overly made up. Sheer in one coat, the colour is buildable, glossy and feels like wearing balm. The rich plum red is stunning and looks polished yet can easily be applied on the go with zero fuss. (NB the lipstick refill and limited edition case are sold separately)


Both lip colours lightly swatched... I do tend to wear a few layers for more intensity. Kiko bottom, Paul & Joe top.


Bobbi Brown Longwear Liquid Liners are a great way to add a pop of colour in a way that's completely wearable. Violet Sparkle may look quite bold in this pic, but on the skin it's a mix of black and violet with a chrome finish that looks very enchanting on the eye. Available in five shades including a gorgeous olive and bronze.


Bog Standard hand poured natural wax candles are made 20 minutes from my home and come in a range of gorgeous outdoorsy scents such as Field and Moss. Hedgerow smells of brambles and roses and reminds me of days out blackberry picking. These are beautifully packaged and very reasonably priced for the quality.


Antipodes Joyful Hand & Body Cream is made with pure avocado oil, wild blackcurrant berry and hibiscus bloom. While the scent is a touch too sweet for me to use on my hands, it makes a glorious body cream and sinks in immediately, with no greasy finish for instant dressing.


L'Occitane has added to its super nourishing Shea Butter range with Shea Violet, a delicate powdery scent in pretty packaging. I'm loving this cute Hugs & Kisses set of hand cream and lip balm (both great) and the Shea Violet Body Cream feels blissful on dry to very dry skin.



Products featured on Strawberry Blonde Beauty include press samples. See my full disclaimer here.

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Michael Kors Wonderlust: Review


Michael Kors Wonderlust eau de parfum is a new floriental gourmand fragrance inspired by escapism and lust for life.

Smooth, warm and creamy, this is an elegant, womanly scent in a gorgeous amber and gold ombre bottle.


NOTES

Top: Italian bergamot, Almond milk, Pink pepper, Sicilian mandarin
Heart: Carnation, Heliotrope, Jasminum grandiflorum absolute, Jasmine sambac
Base: Cashmere wood, Sandalwood, Benzoin siam


I go quite lightly with Wonderlust as I find the initial spritz quite heady, though it really is quite soft once it settles on my skin. The jasmine, almond milk and woods are dominant for me and I find that I'm more drawn to this scent with every wear. 


Both sophisticated and comforting (an odd mix, but true), wearing Wonderlust reminds me of being wrapped in cashmere, pretty perfect for this time of year. 

Michael Kors Wonderlust is available now in 30, 50 or 100ml bottles. Find it at John LewisEscentual or Sephora (where it's also available in a cute 10ml rollerball.)  



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Jo Malone Basil & Neroli Scented Candle


The Jo Malone Basil & Neroli Collection hits counters this week and is an absolute beauty. The first ever Jo Malone citrus floral (but not as you know it), this new permanent line extends from cologne to body cream. If the scented candle is anything to go by, I defy anyone not to fall for it.

I'm a huge fan of herbal scents, with Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay an all time favourite, so the top note of basil received an immediate tick from me. I am that person with her nose stuck in a pot of herbs, rubbing the leaves to release the juicy aroma - and basil is a particular favourite. 

The succulent green scent of Neroli, from the blossom of bitter orange trees, introduces orange flower to the mix, while musk adds roundness and softens any sharpness from the citrus.

Green, clean and exhilarating, this scent is slightly more gentle than Blackberry & Bay, which packs a more distinct herbal punch. (I haven't yet tried the cologne, so am only judging by the candle.)


The Jo Malone Basil and Neroli scented candle makes my room smell amazing, with the kind of outdoorsy freshness that I adore. When I leave and come back in, it's as if someone has left a freshly cut bunch of herbs and flowers on the table.

I imagine that this fragrance will hold particular appeal to fans of Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin, Orange Blossom and my personal favourite, Blackberry & Bay (review).


I'll be hot footing it to check out the cologne when Jo Malone Basil & Neroli launches this Thursday (1st September). I reckon I'll need a treat on the day my baby girl starts secondary school. I just know there will be tears (mine!) as I watch her disappear through the gates... that's my excuse anyway! 

Jo Malone Basil & Neroli scented candle, £42; 30ml cologne, £43; 100ml cologne £86; Body Creme, £50; Body & Hand Wash, £28. 


PS Thank you to my friend, Gillian, for allowing me to photograph this candle in her dreamy garden, a haven of beautiful flowers and fresh herbs. xx


Products featured on Strawberry Blonde Beauty include press samples and purchases. See my full disclaimer here.
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