Side note: I’ve been soooo sick over the last week and generally feeling sorry for myself which is why this blog is kind of late. I was thinking of taking photos of myself but my face is in no fit state to be photographed. So swatches of the make up below will have to do!

In recent years I’ve become a bit more interested in make up and learning the tricks of the trade. From using eye shadow to fill in my eyebrows, to putting tape on my face in order to achieve that fierce winged liner, I’m definitely improving and venturing out of my comfort zone.

I have been struggling with my skin lately. A very aggressive breakout along both my cheekbones has left me feeling somewhat vulnerable – a complete first for me.

Now on a long-term course of antibiotics, I’m extremely wary of the products I use.

There’s something very therapeutic about make up shopping, especially when you know you’re not exactly breaking the bank. My previous posts on KIKO products have always highlighted just how awesome and affordable their cosmetics are. More importantly though, there’s no qualms about handing over your card to the cashier either, which is a rarity when it comes to make-up shopping nowadays.

After spending some time with a friend and fabulous make up artist Robert, who is based at the Oxford Circus branch, I finally decided on the following products, which came to a total of £25.00. I did have a Gift Card to hand and in the end my grand total was £5.00. Not bad, right?

I have been dying to achieve a Kylie Jenner lip for ages. I love the pouty, nude lip that she rocks and I’m a firm believer that make up can create some incredible illusions. Contouring has blown up, but I have been hooked on lipsticks for a while now. After learning how to effectively blend to have a fuller look to my lips, I was over the moon with the results achieved with just two lip liners and one lipstick. Here I have purchased lip liners in colours 301 and 314. The lipstick is from the Velvet Mat – Satin range in shade 601 – Nude Rose.

Lip Liner in shade 301 – Tattoo Pink (L) and 314 – Wood Brown (R)

I’m going to be completely honest. I don’t have a steady hand so whilst the results of KIKO’s Gel Eyeliner has been impeccable, I needed guidance in nailing that effortless stroke. The best way to do this is by using a pen liner first and going over with the gel liner. KIKO’s Precision eye liner nicely helps with this.

In addition to their great prices, KIKO was also in the middle of a sale so just out of curiosity I grabbed a lovely deep pink eyeshadow to try out, priced at £2.80. I’ve yet to use this but can’t wait to see how well this blends when creating a smoky eye.

If you haven’t been to KIKO yet, I strongly suggest you do. Not only do I have zero complaints about their products, but they’re reasonably priced and have such a vast range to suit all skin tones and types. Since these purchases, I’ve gone back to KIKO and allowed Robert to work his magic on me for a seminar that I hosted last week. Using all KIKO products, he created a fabulous look that wasn’t over the top but still retained a certain glam factor. Smokey eyes and a nude lip was the objective and with the exception of reapplying lipstick once or twice during the day, the rest of my make up stayed in place. Here are a couple of snaps from that make over.

With Robert Welsh at KIKO

Close up at the event. This is what I do when I take a break from learning my lines!

I got back to one of my major loves in the journalism game; interviewing. In the run up to the Aashni + Co Bridal Exhibition, I’ve had the chance to speak to some very talented designers all of whom are excited to come to London in order to showcase their collections as well as learn a bit more about their international market. Nikasha, is one of those designers set to take London by storm this weekend at the Aashni + Co exhibition. I gave her a call to learn more about her background, her collection and her opinions on all things fashion.

How did you first get into fashion?

“I was actually training to be a psychoanalyst and in fact fashion design kind of just happened for me. I was at a party and I had made something for myself to wear and this lady came up to me and said ‘I really like what you’re wearing and I’m opening a store, would you be able to provide a few pieces like this?’ I thought she was mad! I was like ‘yeah sure, why not?’ so I did. A few days later, I got a call from this gentleman and he said he was calling on behalf of Selfridges and that he had been to this lady’s store and saw my clothing. He then asked would I be interested in supplying there. Again, I thought this was a hoax. So that’s how it actually started and he was in fact a buyer from Selfridges and he got me in there and I worked for about 2 years with Selfridges. We created cotton kaftans, wrap around skirts and tunics. That’s how my label started.”

Have you ever felt concerned about the competition within the fashion industry?

“The only tough part I would say is that there are a lot of copy cats. The mass market has become a cause for concern. In India it happens on such a huge scale and there is no policing of it. India is such a big country so in many villages you have these self proclaimed designers who in fact copy designs. That has become a real cause for concern, especially in the metro cities also like Delhi and Bombay.”

Where do you get your inspiration from?

“I believe that inspiration is always within you. It’s something that you keep tapping into. Sometimes it’s an idea you thought about ten years ago and you’ve marinated it and you’re ready to step out with it. I think for anyone who is a creative person, it depends on your mood too. You can hear a song or you might be in a place and see a colour or painting and suddenly think “oh wow I want to do a collection based on this.” A lot depends on how you’re feeling about yourself at that point in time. Whether you’re feeling happy, sad, dark. Are you getting over something? A lot depends on those factors. Inspiration is a combination of a lot of factors.”

Tell us a bit more about the collection.

“I will be bringing the 2014/15 AW collection, which is our ramp collection. We’ve had lots of celebrities wearing these pieces such as Deepika Padukone who wore two pieces from the ramp collection, Raveena Tandon, Alia Bhatt and Vidya Balan. This has been a very popular collection plus we’re also bringing Rani, which is our bridal collection. So it’s a mixture of the two.”

You’ve had some favourable critique by notable writers. What impact does this have on you and your career?

“I remember meeting Suzy Menkes at my show in Bombay and after she left India we were all very anxious about who she was going to write about and who she wasn’t going to write about. Fortunately I was amongst 3 or 4 designers that did get written about. Critic are all okay and I’m humbled that we’ve had plenty of press coverage but as much as I appreciate it, I think it’s important to keep focused on what you do because sometimes things are good and sometimes it’s not and people do write that you could do better or that your work is different. I feel as long as you’ve been true to your collection and you’ve done the prerequisites that need to be done, then favourable or unfavourable critics doesn’t matter. You move on to the next. Constructive criticism however is very interesting and should be acknowledged. At the end of the day, it’s art. Yes it’s commercial art to an extent. Fashion has to be liked by a certain segment of society.”

What are you looking forward to at the Aashni + Co Show?

“To meet all these people. As a designer, I don’t have my own store and I supply to many stores all over the world. It’s always exciting when you come to a new, international market and see and meet people and basically interact and hang out and see what the vibes are like. I’m very excited about this collaboration with Aashni and I hope it all goes well and we keep coming back every year.”

If there’s one thing we all hate, it’s eyeliner that smudges. So wanting to try something new, I found myself in my go to make-up store, KIKO Cosmetics and purchased their Lasting Gel Eyeliner. Now, I’ve heard about these type of liners and seen countless YouTube tutorials about their application and the different type of wings you can create with a bit of brush control. However, I’ve never really seen much in terms of reviews of the actual product.

Up for a make up challenge, I went home happy with my purchase, which included the EYES 209 brush.

Using my current pen liner as a guide for the first application, the gel had a thick, creamy texture, leading me to believe that it would take some time to dry. However once applied, drying time was less than 30 seconds, leaving a deep, jet black shade. If you’re not familiar with applying eyeliner using a brush, then the first couple of applications will be a little tricky. My advice is to practice as much as you can, and use another eyeliner as a guide to help you if need be.

What I love about this purchase is the way KIKO’s gel liner simply doesn’t budge. Panic usually sets in when I realise that I may have smudged a perfectly lined eye, but I was shocked to see that this gel liner was still intact despite the odd accidental itch. The colour is just as intense as it looks and the fine brush allows you to be as precise as you want.

When removing this eyeliner, it’s worth noting that it isn’t the easiest of liners to clean off. Using a good eye make up remover should do the trick, especially if it’s oil based. I tend to stick to my usual skincare routine using Liz Earle’s Cleanse and polish. Gently massaging the cream into my eyelids and then using the muslin cloth in warm water to wipe away the gel liner usually does the trick. You may need to go over the eye area a few times in order to remove completely, so be gentle and use a soft, eye-friendly material.

To ensure all residue is completely removed, I recommend using Liz Earle’s Eyebright soothing eye lotion afterwards.

The verdict?

I’m so glad I went with my gut and purchased KIKO’s gel eyeliner. Despite being told that it’s easier to use a pen liner, I don’t think you get the same finish and staying power. Also, there comes a point when the colour intensity of a pen liner will begin to fade, but you’re guaranteed a deep and dark application every time when you use KIKO’s gel liner. At £8.90 you’re hardly breaking the bank. The KIKO EYES 209 brush retails for £10.90. A very inexpensive purchase, which when paired together can have stunning results.

Try it for yourself.

I’ve been debating this decision for a while. There are moments where I look at my very small collection of MAC products, which include a face powder, lipstick and eyeshadow – not much at all – and I feel the slightest tinge of resentment.

However despite offering some of the most popular make up items, I’ve decided to swear off MAC cosmetics. Now, I’m fully aware that there are much more pressing issues in the world – but this is precisely part of the reason why I’m making this move.

From a political standpoint, it is claimed that MAC Cosmetics have links to Benjamin Netanyahu. Ronald Lauder, the son of Estée Lauder, is reportedly a confidant of Netanyahu, which doesn’t sit quite well with me. Understandably, this political divide between Israel and Palestine is a sensitive one and everyone will have their opinion regarding the ongoing violence. As someone who use to purchase products from the Estée Lauder brand, it’s extremely unnerving to think what my money has gone towards. Whether it’s true or not, I would rather not take my chances and fund actions that hurt and kill others.

It’s not just their supposed political involvement that’s solidified my decision. From a more commercial perspective, every single time I have found myself in a MAC cosmetics store or concession, I have left so dissatisfied with the lack of customer service. Now, I completely understand that MAC Cosmetics are always busy. There are hoards of people in there and only so many assistants that can help.

Yet, other make-up concessions are still able to provide suitable customer services despite the store/concession crammed of eager shoppers.

Now imagine yourself at any MAC store or concession – take your pick. Not only are you likely to find some of the assistants reluctantly helping others but you’re also likely to see some avoiding contact with customers altogether. I’m not joking. Whether it’s touching up their own make up or passing time with their heads stuck in their storage cupboards, I cannot recall a single time I have been approached by an assistant.

It’s about time we become a little more ballsy when it comes to voicing our dissatisfaction particularly at companies who feel like they’re doing us a favour. Why are we spending hard earned cash in places that don’t deserve a penny and that cannot train their staff in basic customer services?

MAC Cosmetics are extremely lucky that consumers are wowed by their marketing and that their products get extensive mentions by beauty bloggers and YouTubers who demonstrate make up tutorials. But they should also bear in mind that there is an alternative to all of their products. More often than not, these alternatives do the job and are kinder to our bank accounts.

Losing one customer may not do any damage to the MAC Cosmetics brand, but the most important thing is knowing I am no longer giving money to a company that frankly doesn’t deserve it.

Because if you take away the mentions, the free publicity, the extensive marketing, then what do you really have? A make up brand that does exactly what so many others do – only with atrocious customer service and a steep price point.

Autumn is officially upon us. Aside from the wet weather, I absolutely love autumn. I adore those sunny, crisp mornings, the different shades leaves turn as we head towards the end of the year and of course the transition from bright, bold summer colours to the more subtle, rich autumnal hues.

Not only do our wardrobes change but so does our make up and beauty regimes. With autumn comes deep reds, berries, browns, nudes and rich purples and despite having beautiful red lipsticks, I was lacking a warm berry shade that could easily shift from day to night.

After searching for ages, Yves Saint Laurent answered my lipstick woes with their Rouge Pur Couture collection. Shade 206, Grenat Satisfaction, is not only deep enough to achieve that dramatic look for evenings, but also the perfect daytime shade that can be taken down a few notches by simply blotting with a tissue to remove any excess colour. At £25.00, it is a steep purchase, but with YSL you know you’re getting exceptional quality – and it was also pay day so of course I made the irrational decision to spend a crapload of money!

Along with a daring berry, nudes remain relevant whatever the season. For days where you’d rather play down the lips and amp up the eyes, nude lipsticks are definitely key. The obstacle here is knowing what shade best suits Asian skin. Though I was personally drawn to nudes that had hints of pinks and peaches, it turns out these shades amplified my lips rather than help to create a natural satin finish. Nudes with a hint of brown are best suited to Asian skin that will give you all the coverage you need without looking bright and barbie-like.

YSL also offers a good option for those struggling to find that perfect nude. Also from the Rouge Pur Couture collection is shade 66 – Bois De Rose, which has a hint of brown that makes it in my opinion a very good match for Asian skin tones.

You’ll notice that the gold case doubles as a mirror and the application is smooth, effortless and leaves a medium to full coverage.

There are an abundant of brands that do similar berry shades if YSL’s simply doesn’t fit in your budget, however I’ve yet to come across a nude shade that compliments my skin tone as well as Bois de Rose. Pop in to your nearest concession and try it out for yourself!

Across the road from my fourth floor Oxford Street office stands KIKO Milano – an Italian cosmetics brand founded in 1997. Their mission as stated on their website is to ‘allow all women to treat themselves to the most innovative cosmetics without having to sacrifice their budget’ – sounds like music to a make-up addict’s ears.

There’s nothing better than walking out of a store armed with all your make-up essentials and knowing that you won’t have to resort to water and the complimentary office fruit to get you through to the next pay day.

On this particular visit, face masks and concealer was high on the agenda – despite shelling out a fortune previously on MAC’s Studio Finish Concealer, which I found did nothing but make my skin look like rust with it’s random reddish hue.

Unlike the MAC concession in Selfridges, staff at KIKO are not only friendly and approachable, but know their products, which is essential in winning over a customer’s trust and having you feel at ease knowing that your make-up woes are in good hands.

So… on to the all important purchases…

KIKO Skin Evolution Concealer

With make-up so heavily priced nowadays, you wonder what you’re going to get for a concealer priced at £5.50. I’ll tell you what you get – coverage that doesn’t make your under eyes and blemishes look rusty red. A little goes a long way with this travel-friendly miracle. Usually I’m not a huge fan of concealers and foundation – most of the time I simply apply powder and I’m on my way. The concealer itself is quite light and for someone who is seriously picky when it comes to her under eyes, I’m more than happy with the finished result when I apply my powder on top. Beware though, it is so tempting to over-apply. As with most concealers, resist the temptation as this will lead to it creasing. I’ve only used this concealer during summer however, so it will be interesting to see how it fares during seasonal changes. Best blended with your finger, the search has been a long and financially painful one to find a concealer that truly suits my skin complexion. Though nothing will ever be absolutely perfect, this is as close to perfection as I think I’m going to come in my quest to find a concealer that truly compliments me.

I’ve found that my skin tone is best suited to shade number 05 – Linen Beige, but there are another seven shades to choose from.

KIKO Purifying Mask

The only face mask I’ve used religiously is by Liz Earle and it’s done a good job every time, so finding an alternative has been a real challenge. But again, taking cost into account, there has to be a more affordable alternative for those who don’t want to break the bank when it comes to building their ultimate skin care regime. KIKO’s Purifying Mask was recommended based on my skin concerns – breakouts, blemishes and my skin type which is combination.

Massaging a thick layer on to my skin after cleansing, leave for approximately 10 – 15 minutes and then remove with loads of warm water or a damp sponge. My skin was definitely brighter and felt fresher. The aim of this face mask is to remove dead skin cells, give skin a long lasting matte look without drying it out completely and reducing those pesky blemishes. Only consistent long-term use will prove whether or not blemishes are significantly reduced, but based on my first use I would definitely continue using this product. Priced at an incredibly affordable £5.90, it is paraben-free and non-comedogenic.

It is worth noting that KIKO offers a range of masks tailored for specific concerns so getting a consultation in store is highly recommended.

The Verdict

Overall, I love this brand. It’s a fresh change from the common MAC product reviews you see all over the internet. But with boycotts taking place because of political conflict, and consumers becoming savvier and conscious about where they spend their money, I’m happy to whip out my card for a brand that seeks to indulge make-up lovers without having them break the bank.