Style Note: The Isabella Oliver Cape

Posted by London Darling

Yesterday was one of those cold and breezy days in London when you really need something warm and snug to wrap up in. And what better way to wrap up than in a cape. It's the perfect alternative to a winter coat. I received this beautiful one as a Christmas Gift from one of my favourite labels Isabella Oliver.

Isabella Oliver Cape

London Fashion Week Diary: BODYAMR

Posted by London Darling

The BODYAMR show was one that I was particularly looking forward to, and it was well worth the wait. The signature draping that I love still played a huge role in the collection as an abundance of luxe fabrics and beaded embellishment.

BODYAMR show

Giveaway: Win Tickets to the 2010 Vitality Show!

Posted by London Darling

The lovely team at Vitality are treating three lucky readers to a pair of free tickets! Running from 18th-21st March in London’s Earls Court 2, Vitality is the UK’s largest health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing event for women.

WIN Vitality tickets

Beauty Buzz: Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare

Posted by London Darling

I recently changed my beauty regime to include the Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, the Instant Boost Skin Tonic and Skin Repair Moisturiser. It's been just six days, and already I've seen a noticeable difference in the clarity of my complexion and the texture of my skin.

Liz Earle Skincare

Dear readers,

It's been a few months since I've posted, I know that many of you have been curious as to why, and I'm about to let you in on the big secret: Pretty Stylish London has a new home!

That's right, this blog has moved over to WordPress, but rest assured, the content will continue to be interesting and informative, just as you've enjoyed here.

It's been a fantastic journey creating and lovingly designing this blog, as a creative project, it's been quite successful, having been shortlist for the 2010 Weblog Awards. So a little part of me is choked up about the end of this era. Yet a big part of me is excited to embark on the new journey that lies ahead; excited to have developed a new format, where beautiful images take centre stage and posts are kept punchy and to the point. Excited to have a whole new look and feel, that in my opinion is classy, more grown up, and unique. It's still a work in progress but I love the direction that it is taking.

That said, I have to admit that I also have the jitters; it's been 18 months since I launched Pretty Stylish London during which the blog has attracted over 200 followers! At a time when the blogosphere is so saturated, that's quite an achievement. In light of this, it's nerve wracking to be starting at 0 followers again... but I'm trusting that if you've followed this blog, then you'll hopefully follow the new and improved version too!

So without further ado, checkout www.prettystylishlondon.com

I can't wait for you to stop by, leave a comment and most importantly follow! After all, it would be a lonely place without you!

Thanks for your support!

Love,

London Darling
The Sanook Spa at the Courthouse Hotel on Great Marlborough Street promised to be a haven of tranquility offering a peaceful and pampering escape from busy city life, and true to it's word, the spa did not disappoint.

With an heated in-door swimming pool, sauna and fitness room, the small but perfectly formed facilities is perfect for some much needed me-time.

I tried the Back-up Plan which consisted of a refreshing back exfoliation scrub (made in-house, especially for the treatment), a cleansing back mask and a wonderfully unwinding hot stone massage. It didn't take long for the feeling of heavy shoulders to be scrubbed and kneaded away.

There was however one blunder that I have to mention; as part of the treatment, you're required to shower off the back scrub ahead of your massage. Yet, the shower was an awkward trek out of the treatment room into the communal shower area, a journey undertaken via the fitness room: Picture the scene; a back full of sticky scrub dripping down my back as a plodded sheepishly through the fitness centre to reach the communal showers with very little privacy.

It would have been far more pleasant and convenient to have a small shower space within the treatment room to avoid such upheaval mid-treatment. That said, the space within the spa does not permit such a luxury so I must remain sympathetic. And whilst it did take me a little while to settle back into a state of relaxation, post shower, I have to admit that the hot stone massage quickly made up for it. All in all, the Back-up Plan was a lovely mini moment of pampering, which lasted a quick 45 minutes, but the sheer indulgence of the treatments left me feeling floaty and relaxed long after.

The Back-up Plan costs £55
To book call: 020 7297 5563

Sanook Spa
Courthouse Doubletree by Hilton
19-21 Great Marlborough Street,
London W1F 7HL
Web: www.courthouse-hotel.com

Just a stone throw away from Sloane Street and Duke of York Square, The Kensington Hotel offers a spacious, alluring and beautifully laid out setting to unwind and relax.

An amalgamation of four grand Victorian townhouses, the hotel underwent a twenty-million pound renovation in April 2009, and the result has been impressive. Possessing the luxury you'd expect from a property within its postcode, and the sophistication fit for its surroundings, the decorative treatment of the hotel was led by Dublin architect Denis Looby and features an eclectic mix of vintage, contemporary and global inspirations. Featuring finds from antique shops as well as furniture from B&B Italia and George Smith, the juxtaposition between period accents and contemporary pieces quite simply works.

If you take pleasure in the finer details, then you're bound to fall in love with the rooms at The Kensington Totel. There are 150 rooms in total all sharing a wonderfully calming sepia and champagne gold colour scheme. With full-length French windows the rooms are as inviting as they are practical, complete bathroom suites that offer a power shower as well as a separate bath.

The Drawing Room

During my visit, I stopped by the Drawing room for Afternoon Tea and as I settled down to a hearty array of savory and sweet treats (including custard fruit tartlets that were deliciously moreish), I observed the room: There were ladies who lunch catching up over tea and fashion-loving tourists comparing Sloane street purchases over glasses of champagne. There was a feeling of high-end, exclusivity there, almost like a private members club, but it was juxtaposed with a sense of homeliness which instantly made me feel at ease and pampered.

Later, I visited the Aubrey restaurant and bar within the hotel, which was lovely intimate space, featuring large green leather booths, textured walls and oozing 1930s glamour. Dinner was served candlelight. The menu left me spoilt for choice - I couldn't decided between the goats cheese starter and the lightly spiced crab cake! The waitress recommended the later, and I was pleasantly surprised by the flavour. As much as I adore seafood, it can a little bland - however, the crab cakes were fresh and flavoursome; zesty with a subtle spiced aftertaste.

For the main, I tucked into breast of pheasant, served with braised red cabbage and crispy potatoes; the portion was generous to say the least - I left some aside to be able to enjoy the plum tart with real vanilla ice-cream, the perfect end to what was a carnival of flavours.

The Kensington Hotel has real character and certainly charms as one of the finest urban havens within the royal Borough. Rooms start from £180 per night.

Aubrey Restaurant

The Reception


For the latest Spring offers and packages, visit the website: www.doylecollection.com

The Kensington Hotel
109-113 Queen's Gate
South Kensington
London SW7 5LR
Tel: +44 (0) 207 589 6300
Email: kensington@doylecollection.com


Staying pretty AND stylish in London can be an expensive job! So if all this high maintenance up-keep is playing havoc with your bank balance then help is at hand with this exciting competition!

Pretty Stylish London has teamed up with Seven Dials, to offer five lucky readers an exclusive Seven Dials Privilege Card, which will entitle you to a *10% discount at over 70 stores, salons and venues throughout Covent Garden’s hidden village.

Seven Dials should be in every London gals’ little black book – it’s a shopping oasis far removed from the chaos of the high street and boasts some of the best boutiques, urban flagship and grooming establishments in the city, not to be mention great places to eat, drink and celeb spot.
The card will entitle you to discounts in stores such as American Apparel, Coco De Mer, Diesel, Firetrap, MAC, Miller Harris, Mimco, Miss LaLas Boudoir, Office, Poste Mistress, Mint Vintage, Adee Phelan Hair Salon and Kitchen Italia to name but a few!

For your chance to win, you must be following the blog or subscribing to email updates. Then check out the Seven Dials website to answering the follow question:

What date is the Seven Dials Shopping Evening, is it taking place on:
A) 24th March
B) 14th April
C) 29th April


Simply comment with your answer by 10th April to enter. Please remember to include your twitter account, or an email to reach you on. Good Luck!

Web: www.sevendials.co.uk
Follow Seven Dials on Twitter

* Terms and Conditions Apply.

I've recently discovered Dr. Bronner’s Magic Liquid Soaps. These naturally moisturising soaps are organic come in a variety of yummy scents including Peppermint, Lavender, Tea Tree, Rose and Lemon Grass Lime.

My favourite to use is the Organic & Fair Trade Shikakai Hand & Body Soaps (£6.99). It's a smooth, rich caramel-colored soap, made up of an organic blend of white grape juice, sucrose and Shikakai powder, coconut oil, olive oil, hemp oil, citric Acid and vitamin E. While some soaps can leave the skin feeling stripped of moisture, the Shikakai soap foams into a rich lather and skin feels cleansed and soothed.

Dr. Bronner’s is the No. 1 selling organic soap brand in the USA, famous for not using any synthetic components in their products, and all major ingredients come from certified Fair Trade sources throughout the world. It's no wonder UK fans are flocking to department store Liberties and Waitrose supermarkets to get their hands on the multi-use soaps. Not just for hands, Dr. Bronner's soaps are also ideal for shampooing and body.

Have you tried Dr. Br
onner's Soaps? Leave your comments.

Web: www.drbronner.com

Congratulations to Luce, Ally and Alexia who entered the Vitality Show competition. Their entries were picked at random and all three have won tickets to this year's show.

I'm always interested in learning more about Pretty Stylish London readers, so I asked the winners to share some interesting facts about who they are and what they do:


Luce writes Get Lippie a blog fueled by her makeup addiction. She is accountant by day, with a sideline in cosmetic personal shopping. Handy with an eyeliner, not so hot with a digital camera. She loves putting products through their paces exploding myths about organic and natural beauty.
www.getlippie.com

Ally is a 21 year old lover of all things beauty related, colourful and sparkly. I am a freelance make up artist in my spare time specialising in Indian Bridal hair and make up as well as Henna. Her beauty blog shares her passion of all things beautiful. Some of her favourite things include cupcakes and tropical islands, Lipsticks and shoes. Her daily life consists of plenty of books, world politics and lots of eyeliner.
www.xallycatx.blogspot.com



Alexia
is a Parisian living in London specialising in events design. Her website and blog which will showcase her work is currently under-construction so find out more about her creative flair via: twitter.com/DecadenceDesign




The Vitality Show takes place from the 18th - 21st March, for further information click here

Web:
www.thevitalityshow.co.uk

For afternoon tea without the fuss, teapod in Tower bridge is a easygoing, relaxed place to visit. The contemporary tea and coffee house serves up a delicious selection of warming drinks, sweets and savories with a passion.

The understated surroundings leave no room for pretentious presentation and there's no gilted crockery in sight. Rather, the food and service speaks for it self - after all the proof is in the taste.

Though modest and very much boutique, the tea room is no plain jane; the interesting colour scheme of magenta and lime green achieves a fresh vibe, evoking both a feeling of energy and tranquility.

The afternoon tea menu consists of salmon and cucumber bites, rustic scones with clotted cream and homeade jam, a rich baked raspberry and white chocolate brownie, complete with your own pot of steaming hot tea. Whether you love the traditional breakfast or wish to opt for something more exotic such as Moroccan mint, the choice is yours.


At £11.00 per person, the price is impressively affordable and befitting for this delightful gem of a eatery.

teapod tea and coffee house
Cardamom Building,
31 Shad Thames,
London SE1 2YR
Tel: (0)207 407 0000
Web: www.teapodtea.co.uk
Rosalyn!

Well done to Rosalyn, of beauty blog Primp and Preen for entering the Benefit Goodies Giveaway this week.

Her comment was picked at random and the Boiing Concealer with Brows a-go-go kit is on route to her letterbox.

Rosalyn's blog is a place where she shares her musings on make up and beauty products whether they be good, bad or ugly.

Rosalyn - I hope you enjoy the products and share with other readers what you think about them, leave your comment and give us your thoughts. xx

Last week I attended a Bobbi Brown event for an introduction to their new Pretty Powerful campaign. It takes a look into the relationship that women have with makeup and how it makes them feel. Many of us at the event agreed that it made us feel a little more 'polished', 'put together' and more confident.

The idea behind Pretty Powerful is to show how a few simple tweaks to your daily makeup routine can help you achieve more beautiful results for added confidence in looking your best.

I had the opportunity to try out some products with Bobbi Brown's Head of Artistry Paul Herrington. He showed me how in less than 10 minutes, I could brighten my normal makeup look with Pout Rouge (£16.50) and Long-wear Gel Eyeliner (£15.00).

Normally, I shy away from wearing cream blush because my skin can be oily and within a few hours the colour melts into the skin. And I don't wear much eyeliner partly because I'm too impatient to put it on and also the fact that I never quite mastered the liquid liner look.

But I was presently surprised to discover how fool-proof it was to apply Bobbi Brown's gel eyeliner. With the nifty eyeliner brush in tow, making my eyes pop is now easy. The Pout Rouge for Lips also works a treat on my cheeks and has the staying power I need.

Prior to the event, I only had one Bobbi Brown product in my makeup kit, and that was the Shimmer Brick; a must-have especially during the Summer to pull off a dewy, golden look. However, now I'm keen to stock up on more Bobbi Brown essentials for the sheer ease and versatility of the brand.

Check out my before and after photo to see how I went from 'pretty' to 'pretty powerful'. (No, I'm not indulging in self appreciation here, merely quoting the words of Paul Herrington! ).


To find out how Bobbi Brown can take you there too, visit your nearest store, or watch the video campaign online at www.bobbibrown.co.uk/prettypowerful

My question to you is how does makeup make you feel? Leave your comments please!
The 14th of March is Mothering Sunday in the UK. The time when it is encouraged to give mum the day off; pamper her, shower her with gifts, and make her feel extra special. If you're looking for an alternative from the traditional bunch of flowers and a box of chocs, here some gorgeous ways to say 'Thanks Mum'.


Afternoon Tea With A Twist

The Trafalgar Hotel is launching Afternoon Tea with a difference just in time for Mother's day. Offering a modern take on a classic tradition, the chefs have worked up a winning menu to include iced tea cocktails, salmon and caviar sandwiches and rich chocolate opera band. At an introductory price of £15.50 per person, this is one sweet treat mum will absolutely love.

When you book in advance there is also the chance to have a beautiful mother-daughter sketch portrait on the day by artist Kirk Kirtchev, priced at £90.00 - it's the perfect keepsake for mum to have pride of place on the mantelpiece. To book call +44 20 7870 2900

The Trafalgar

2 Spring Gardens,
Trafalgar Square,
London, SW1A 2TS
Web: www.thetrafalgar.com

Pampering Superskin Face Treats

Liz Earle, my new skincare crush is offering the ideal beauty gift for mum; the offer includes iconic products such as Superskin Concentrate 10ml, Superskin Moisturiser 15ml, a sample of Superskin Eye and Lip, all smartly presented in the White Superskin bag for £29.25.

Liz Earle products are rich in antioxidants, calming and nurturing ingredients to help boost the skins elasticity and perk up the complexion. Tell mum that she doesn't need a dresser full of anti-aging products, it's all here naturally in one pampering pack. Place your orders at uk.lizearle.com


A Creative Mother's Day At Bead Aura

If mum is big on accessories, then book her into Bead Aura's jewellery making class where she can learn the basics of making jewellery in a one hour beading master-class, and leave with her very own personal bracelet or necklace. An hour long class is priced at £22 per person so you can double up to share the experience.

Bead Aura
3 Neal's Yard
WC2H 9DP
Web: www.sevendials.co.uk

Pretty Stylish London has two fabulous Benefit products to giveaway. One lucky reader will win Benefit Boiing - the industrial-strength concealer (in shade 02), perfect for hiding dark circles, shadows and discoloration. And Brows a-go-go; the all-in-one brow and eye shaping kit.

So fingers at the ready to enter this quick fire competition! To be in with a chance of winning you must be following the blog - simply leave a comment telling us why you'd love to have these two Benefit beauty essentials. Ready, set, GO!

Winner picked Monday 8th March
For more information on Benefit cosmetics visit: www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk
Yesterday I attended the Viva Glam launch of two new lipsticks to raise awareness of MAC Cosmetics' Aids Fund. The new campaign entitled 'From our Lips' is fronted by Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper, the new spokespersons for the fund, and the event was hosted by Sharon Osbourne.

The star studded gathering had Britain's fashion and entertainment darlings in attendance including models Agyness Deyn, Tallulah Adeyemi, designer Henry Holland and diva extraordinaire Jodie Harsh.

It was an intimate 'audience with' and both Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper had much to say about the subject of HIV and AIDs. Fans of MAC and the divas alike from all over the world emailed questions for Sharon Osborne to invite the feisty duo to address.


The discussion shared the extent to which MAC are working with pharmaceutical companies to develop a female condom, and donating the full price of the new lipsticks (£12.50) to their charity.

It is understood that 2.5 million dollars will go to locations with the highest level of aids infection such as Africa, the Caribbean and Queens, New York. More money will be distributed to other affected countries and cities as needed.

Flamboyant and as iconic as ever, it is hoped that the discussion between Gaga and Lauper on the subject of HIV and AIDS will encourages people to think and act differently about the disease. One of the biggest preconceptions is that AIDS is primarily a gay disease, but the infection rate of heterosexuals is vast enough to challenge that myth.

At one point the discussion turned to solemn was when Cyndi Lauper talked openly and somewhat emotionally about loosing a best friend to the disease in the 1980s. It was this loss that made her pay more attention to protecting herself from the infection. She said to ignore the importance of safe sex would have been a disservice to her friend who lost his life.

When asked what their message to women around the world about sex is? Lady Gaga spoke bluntly in saying 'Wrap it up with a condom. Women are now the highest demographic of the infected'. In agreement Lauper stated 'Women need to feel strong enough to say 'I practice safe sex, or nothing at all' - protect yourself and don't be a knucklehead! Viva Life, Viva Glam'.

Web: www.macaidsfund.org

During Fashion Week, Look Magazine put on a spectacular fashion show at the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea. It was a star-studded event with the likes of pop princess Pixie Lott and catwalk veteran Erin O'Connor in attendance.

Top fashion brands including Dorothy Perkins, Mango, Reiss and French Connection combined pieces to create fabulous looks for the new season, including an oh so pretty floral playsuit by ASOS. Bring on Spring! Here are some highlights.

Web: www.look.co.uk


Cult leisure brand Fat Face recently added a new style of denim to their collection entitled Carrot. The relaxed boyfriend fit denim is in a heavy vintage wash and sits low with a slouchy fit on the hips yet slim at the calves and ankles.

Perfect for pear-shaped girls like me who find skinny jeans less than flattering, the Carrot denim is a brilliant alternative; with angled front pockets and cinch back waistband, it's tapered to fit like skinny jeans and I love the fact that I can adjust the waist for a snug fit.

I've always had trouble finding the perfect skinnies; thanks to my wide hips and a smaller waist, the proportions never seem to work, but I think I've found the perfect match. Here's a snap of my carrot denim, it's so comfy I live in them most weekends. Carrot denim is available to buy online, now reduced to £44.00.

Web: www.fatface.com

What do you think of the new Carrot denim?

Photography courtesy of Chris Hutty

The lovely team at Vitality are treating three lucky readers to a pair of free tickets! Running from 18th-21st March in London’s Earls Court 2, Vitality is the UK’s largest health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing event for women.


So whether you want to revitalise, invigorate, inspire or simply spoil yourself, make sure this year's Vitality Show – sponsored by leading healthcare provider Simplyhealth - is a confirmed date in your diary.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply comment answering this question… Who is sponsoring the Vitality Show? Remember you must be following the blog or a subscriber via feedburner to enter the giveaway. Good Luck!

Web: www.vitalityshow.co.uk

Closing date: 7th March 2010. Winner will be picked at random.

Date: 18th - 21st March
Location: Earl's Court 2, Warwick Road, London SW5 9TA
Admission: from £5.00

It's that time of year again girls, the Vitality Show is back at Earl's Court. Now with even more attractions, expect over 350 fitness and wellbeing companies under one roof to pamper, advise and inspire your health and beauty buys.


Along with all the regulars, The Vitality Show has introduced a series of new and interactive attractions for 2010 including the POM Wonderful Kitchen, with residents chefs on hand to whip up tasty healthy snacks using pomegranate juice, a skin consultation bar offering free advice on how to keep your skin looking fresh and young and a gluten free village, full of information and advice on the latest allergies and food intolerances.

There's also a new highlight: One Life Live Show; lead by experts John Lees, Jessica Chivers and Pete Cohen, the show will feature motivational talks and discussions about holistic therapies.

Admission is just £5 on the evening of Thursday 18th, and £14.50 when you book the weekend dates in advance. More on the door.

Web: www.thevitalityshow.co.uk



The BODYAMR show was one that I was particularly looking forward to, and it was well worth the wait. The signature draping that I love still played a huge role in the collection as well as an abundance of luxe fabrics and beaded embellishment.

A predominantly monochrome collection with splashes of bold print in rich purples, Venetian red and green, made for interesting viewing. Free flowing white and cream dresses with nipped in waists had a Grecian goddess feel and black cutaway dresses were real statement pieces.

The hero pieces that stood out for me were the dress with contrasting print panelling and the structured numbers with gold chain detailing; incredibly sexy and chic. It was also interesting to see mohair box cut jackets paired with gold belted harem style pants. The gold mini with matching long-line jacket were really quite powerful.

BODYAMR's collection from start to finish was incredibly strong and engaged you in an element of fantasy. Yet all pieces were instantly wearable. This was impressive but no surprise to me as I've long been a fan of the label for this very reason.

Web: www.vauxhallfashionscout.com
Image Credit: Vauxhall Fashion Scount

The challenge was on for ethical label Prophetik to bring sustainable fashion to the catwalk and excite us with something a little different. Well, the live band that played at the show was a really cool touch to what was otherwise a very simple style offering of laid back layers, grey, denim and black.

Simple isn't necessary a bad thing, it's just for me, fashion week is about presenting something that packs a punch or two, a collection that 'pops' on the catwalk and grabs my attention, and in this case, the collection failed to excite me hugely.

In fact, it was all very practical. And I completely get it - the inspiration behind the collection was the American Civil War - a time where fashion understandably underwent rationing. So simplicity is key.

On a more positive note there was plenty that I could appreciate; I liked the high waist trousers, the slim tailoring, the boleros pinned with a solitary button and the short waistcoats. I also thought the injection of blood red hues in a select number dresses and accessories helped to brighten up the catwalk. However, no piece or ensemble stood out as the next big trend.

Prophetik's collection clearly flies the flag for ethical fashion and remind us that sustainable can be stylish, I just wish there more luster. See video for a snippet of the show.



Web: www.vauxhallfashionscout.com
Image Credit: Vauxhall Fashion Scout

It was an interesting first day for me at London Fashion Week. I attended the David Koma show, which was short to say the least but an interesting collection of vampish leather, cutaway dresses, geometric shapes and one shoulder numbers. It was a dark, warrior-esque collection where goth met power dressing and body con shapes were in full effect.

The pieces made me think that Koma's muse is a modern day Xena Warrior Princess; the gold and silver embellishment that played an important part throughout, added a distinctly military feel to the pieces. If Xena was on a hot date with Hercules in 2010, she'd definitely be wearing a dress from David Koma's latest style offering. It's so very her!

So this is a taste of style to come? I wonder which celebrities will be endorsing this new trend first? We saw Beyonce in David Koma at MTV European Music Awards and Cheryl Cole during X Factor last year. Most likely Rihanna or Lady Gaga (who is also a fan). Both artists seemingly push the boat out on being fashion-forward and this new collection would be right up their street.

The colour palette was somewhat predictable for the season; fail proof hues of stone, tan and black were obvious staple colours for the winter months. Overall, the collection wasn't my idea of amazing, but I did find the bold embellishment and his angle on geometric shapes really interesting and strong. I'll be keen to see how this look translates to the high street. For the collection in a nutshell, check out this quick video of the show made by ASOS.

Web: www.vauxhallfashionscout.com
Image credit
: Vauxhall Fashion Scout


Yesterday was one of those cold and breezy days in London when you really need something warm and snug to wrap up in.

And what better way to wrap up than in a cape. It's the perfect alternative to a winter coat. I received this beautiful one as a Christmas Gift from one of my favourite labels Isabella Oliver.

It's part wool, part cashmere and the perfect fit. As you can see, the colour is a yummy camel toffee and whenever I wear it, I'm always stopped to ask where it's from. This cape is a prime example of the sheer brilliance of Isabella Oliver at it's best, and granted, it's last season but sophistication never goes out of fashion!


Isabella Oliver's Spring Summer collection is available online, I already have my eye on a few things I'd love to buy for the new season; the Coco Blazer, £159.00 is top of my list, closely followed by the Classic Wrap Dress, £99.00. What's on yours?

Web: www.isabellaoliver.com
It's official: I'm in love with the Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare range.

I recently changed my beauty regime to include the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, the Instant Boost Skin Tonic and Skin Repair Moisturiser. It's been just six days, and already I've seen a noticeable difference in the clarity of my complexion and the texture of my skin.

I know that I'm a tad late on discovering the benefits of this range; fellow beauty bloggers have been raving about it for some time now. But like so many other women, I tend to be a stickler for brands and products I've used for years - I need to be strongly convinced before I consider anything other than my favourites. So when I was invited to try out the Liz Earle Signature Facial (£85.00) it was the perfect opportunity to get to know the brand personally.

Treatment room at the Liz Earle Flagship Store, Duke of York Square.

The facial is 90 minutes of pure, unadulterated indulgence, right down to the treatment bed (which was huge!) It was wonderful having my face treated with what felt like the most luxuriously rich, fragrant products. The treatment was so relaxing that I'm sure I let out a tiny snore as I dozed off for what must have been 10 minutes. (Somewhat embarrassing I know, and I'm not even a snorer!)

Victoria, the therapist was very thorough, and I was particularly impressed with her technique of extraction; it was close to being pain-free. After the treatment (which also included a shoulder massage and foot rub), my skin felt replenished, looked brighter and had a healthy glow.

I was curious to follow up with the home care products and see whether they would help to prolong the results of the facial. I gave myself one week to try a selection from the Liz Earle skincare range and consider if the buzz surrounding the iconic Hot Cloth Cleanser and others were truly deserved.

Packed with ingredients such as eucalyptus, cocoa butter and rosemary, It didn't take long to understand just why the Hot Cloth Cleanser has won numerous awards; quite frankly it does exactly what it says on the bottle - it works, and works so very well.

The cleanser removes stubborn mascara and all traces of makeup with complete ease. It smells gorgeous and my skin is super soft afterwards. Currently, I use the cleanser twice daily and follow up with the toner and moisturiser, which are equally fabulous products.

The best thing about the products is that whilst they are not strictly designed 'for problem skin' they work on getting rid of those pesky blemishes that I'd normally have to treat with Salicylic acid based lotions, and with my sensitive skin, they tend to irritate my skin in the process.

Tomorrow will be the last day of what was supposed to be a temporary beauty regime, however, I love the products so much that I will continue to use it as part of my daily skincare ritual. I really believe the hype now, in fact it's not hype at all - Liz Earle products really work, even on acne prone skin like mine. I can't wait to see the results in a month's time!

Liz Earle
38-39 Duke of York Square,
Kings Road, London, SW3 4LY
Tel: 020 7730 9191
Web: www.lizearle.com

Leave your comments! Have you tried Liz Earle products?

Date: 06th February
Time: 11:00 - 15:30
Location: Jalouse Private Members Club
17 Hanover Square
London
W1S 1HU

This weekend sees the launch of One Day Diva; a series of designer sale events in a bid to satisfy your fashion cravings and support Breast Cancer Research.


The events will be set in the heart of Mayfair, and is the brainchild of two friends; Francesca Farnesi of London Dress Agency Frankie and Lola, and Hayley Smith - a singer with a passion for fashion. Expect gorgeous clothes, coveted accessories and shoes, all displayed at a stitch of the rrp.

Among the sellers will be vintage & designer couture boutique owners and industry specialists, including Frocking Fabulous Vintage, Funky Bling and Rous Iland Boutique. With 20 hand-picked sellers all showcasing on the day, celebrity stylist Ian B will be on hand to offer complimentary personal styling advice to shoppers.

There are a limited number of tickets left which include special VIP Early Tickets to get your hands on a goodie bag and receive two hours priority shopping access to the best bargains. I'll be there, will you?

Web: www.onedaydiva.com

Big congratulations to Pretty Stylish London reader Tor of Fab Frocks who won the £100 Wahanda Voucher competition in December.

Tor's fabulous blog covers all things fashion and even has Wendy Brandes' Seal of Approval. When asked how she intends to spend the pampering gift, Tor has opted to take her sister on a beauty treat. Aww. Have fun lovely and be sure to check out the latest deals on Wahanda.com.

To keep abreast of the latest giveaways and posts on Pretty Stylish London, follow the blog or subscribe today.

Introducing a wonderful natural beauty range that has perked up my pamper time considerably; Pinks Boutique is a UK based brand lovingly created by Luke Sherriff and Kirstie Allen. Their passion for unique aromas and exotic Asian ingredients has manifested in a range of spa quality products, free from parabens and unnecessary chemicals.


The buzz around Pinks Boutique is increasing at a rapid pace; the brand kick-started the new year with co-founder Kirstie's inclusion into the Natural Beauty Yearbook 2010 Top 20 Personalities, placed 17th as voted for by Spas and Salons.

Recently, I've been enjoying the citrus blend of the Lemongrass and Mandarin Facial set (£23.00). These little pots of goodness are a pleasure to apply, and my skin feels like I've had a professional facial afterwards. It's the Bamboo & Oatmeal Polish (£19.50) that I love the most - it has a rich texture that glides on the skin, and the beads of oatmeal are gentle enough to use everyday.

I'm so impressed that I'm keen to try the other ranges, and will schedule a visit to one of the increasing number of spas within London that now treat with the Pinks Boutique range. I'll keep you posted on how the other products fair.

What organic products are you smitten with right now?

Pinks Boutique
Visit the website to find your nearest organic Spa:
www.pinksboutique.com
Date:
Friday 12th February

Time:
19:30 - 23:00

Location:

3 Appold Street
London, EC2A 2AF

Admission:
£5 donation

Last year in my attempt to raise a wad of cash for Cancer Research UK, I hosted the Big Pink Pamper Party and the night was a success thanks to the lovely tweeters and bloggers who came along and donated.

Leanne (left) with Yve at the Big Pink Pamper Party (Look at all that chocolate she won, lucky girl!)

One of those tweeters; Leanne, otherwise known as @teenytinyleanne in Twitterville is hosting her own fabulous soirée to raise more money for the cause and the theme is befitting for the start of Valentine's weekend.

So calling all single ladies (and gentleman) to head over to a night of Speed Dating shenanigans. There'll be free nibbles, discounted cocktails and hopefully some rather dishy people to conversate with.

To reserve your place, simply donate £5 to Cancer Research UK.
Visit: www.justgiving.teenytinypartycompany for more details.

When I posted a few days ago about exciting things in store for Pretty Stylish London, I had no idea it would be happening so soon!

As I logged in for my usual Friday morning twitter fix, I had news from fellow blogger Harlem Loves that the blog had been nominated for Best-Designed in the 2010 Weblog Awards!

How cool is that? This news has added a little sunshine to my day which would have otherwise been grey and gloomy (Londoners have you seen the weather today? Ugh.) Just being nominated is amazing in itself, but of course, I'd love to win!

So a big thank you to everyone who nominated the blog for this category, it's appreciated very much.

Please continue support the blog and vote for Pretty Stylish London in the best-designed category - hey you never know what good things may come out of winning eh?

Award-winning blogs have more weight in securing fabulous giveaways and offers so I'll be sure to use the award (should I win) to push for more freebies and cool stuff for you lovely readers.

You guys rock! xx
LinkWithin Related Stories Widget for Blogs
Become a fan on Facebook!
Look who's reading now...

Cath Kidston Ltd.

Matches Fashion

Molly Brown

Lipsy

Kabiri Ltd

Kurt Geiger Ltd.

MyTheresa

Liberty.co.uk

♥ My Other Blogs

  • On Tuesday 20th October, Pretty Stylish London hosted a fundraising event entitled The Big Pink Pamper Party, in aid of Cancer Research UK and to highlight...
  • When you get tired of that Dior bag of three seasons past and fancy a new addition to your collection, ebay is probably your first port of call, right? Wel...

♥ Useful Links

Abazias
Who in their right mind purposefully wastes hard earned money? Especially when they don't have to. If you're looking for engagement rings, design your own for affordable prices, only at Abazias.

♥ Snaps of the Editor

♥ Snaps of the Editor

Independent Fashion Bloggers/

CommentLuv Enabled