Vera Wang Perfume

I'm always on the look out to discover new scents whether they have just been released or have been on the scent market for sometime.

I was browsing online and came across the Vera Wang Fragrances and what caught my attention was how stunning the bottles are, that hold each signature scent.
Ive never owned nor tested a Vera Wang perfume before so was really excited when i purchased the Rock Princess Eau De Toilette.

What caught my attention was how different and unique the bottle is, from all the others in my collection. The dark heart shaped bottle which fits perfectly in your hand, to the crackle effect on the front, gives this bottle a mysterious aura before you have even made a judgement about the scent.
The added touch of elegance and luxury shining from the metal bling ring that sits around the neck of the sprayer and also the metal royal crown that sits to protect that spray head, both can be took off and worn as a fashion statement whilst your rocking the rock princess scent.
Rock Princess debuted in the scent market in 2009 and is labelled to be a limited fragrance that shows a rebellious side of a princess with its dark, floral and fruity attitude.

Rock Princess features:
White Peach, Red Raspberry, Bergamot, Heliotrope,
Vintage Rose, Night Blossoming Jasmine, Lilly, Cashmere, Musk, 
Iris & Creamy Coconut.

Rock Princess ticks every box that you maybe be wanting from a fragrance by it being sweet and fruity with woody and musky undertones. Add a touch of white floral and powdery senses then rock princess is a perfect concoction that is inoffensive. 
I was really surprised on how well this lasted throughout the day, by it being an Eau De Toilette, they tend to fade quicker and require a few more sprays during the day for you to experience the scent again. The scent lasted on me at least eight hours and even then you can still detect it sitting close on your skin. 
What is great about this scent is all the notes work really well together, so you are not getting a scent that has one or two domineering notes, but you are getting a harmonising unique scent that is suitable for any season or occasion. 
Unique Bottle, Unique Scent! X Neil.

Ladival - Sun Protection - Protect Your Skin

Is your sun protection brand protecting your skin from the broad spectrum of rays from the sun? Most sun protection brands only protect you from UVA and UVB rays but fail to protect you from the Infrared-A rays that can penetrate the skin deeper causing cellular-level damage which leads to short and long term skin damage. 
The effects from this damage can include premature skin ageing, decreased skin elasticity, increased wrinkling and importantly, damage to the skin's DNA that can also impact your long-term health. Skin cancer is the fastest growing of the top ten cancers in the UK, so protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun is something that is really important and easy, to introduce to your skincare routine.

Ladival Sun Protection is the latest revolution in sun care and the first mainstream brand to protect your skin against harmful Infrared-A rays as well as the UVA and UVB sun rays. Choosing a sunscreen that includes Infrared-A protection, you are protecting your your skin four times more from the sun's damaging rays.

Ladival has a wide range to suit everyone, Lotions to sprays that have SPF'S from 15, 30 to 50 as well as a kids range so you can protect the whole family. Ladival products are free from perfume, colourants, preservatives and emulsifiers which make them suitable for the sensitive and eczema skin sufferers as well as those who suffer from sun allergies and prickly heat. Ladival also has a unique, non-greasy formula that offers immediate protection and is water resistant, great for at the beach and swimming.

Got burnt by the sun???
Ladival DNA Repair After Sun is the only product in the UK to contain photolyase enzyme, a special ingredient which supports the natural regeneration process for sundamaged skin through a photoactivation mechanism.
When skin is exposed to the sun it creates a reaction within our cells and as a result, the rate at which we produce melanin increases, hence a tan.
The purpose of this is to help protect against the damage from UV-B rays. If we have too much sun, the protective mechanism is overwhelmed and the skin releases chemicals to protect the area from further damage and this is known to us as sunburn. The skin becomes hot, red and painful and at a cellular level the DNA is damaged and the DNA strands become bonded together. If the body cannot repair the damage, this is the basis of skin damage and the effects are skin laxity, wrinkles and pigmentary changes. 
How does Ladival DNA Repair After Sun help? Photolyase enzyme is found naturally in the blue-green algae Anacystis nidulans. Ladival DNA Repair After Sun harnesses the natural power of this enzyme and uses it to help repair DNA damage, restoring structure and reducing the development of sun damaged cells. This supports the skin’s natural regeneration process. Restoration of damaged DNA results in better protection for skin against the long-term effects of UV-B.
Directions for use: 
• Apply to clean dry skin 
• Repeat several times if required 
• Use on an ongoing daily basis like you would a moisturiser to ensure that your skin remains nurtured • To ensure that the photolyase enzymes can take optimum effect, wait 30 minutes before applying any oily skin care products to treated skin area.

The pleasantly cooling hydrodispersion gel formula provides relief for taut feeling skin and alleviates sun-related reddening. The formula contains dexpanthenol and vitamin E to provide additional skin soothing and nurturing benefits. Suitable for regular use, the non-greasy formula is quickly absorbed without leaving a sticky residue, so you can get dressed shortly after application. It contains no perfume, oils or emulsifiers, so is even suitable for use on sensitive skin. The DNA-restoring action of photolyase has been scientifically proven by the University of Dusseldorf.1 Consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall says 
“Previously we have always focused on the prevention of sun damage by protecting the skin with light-reflective sun screens, UV absorbing chemicals and antioxidants to ‘mop up’ free radical damage caused by sun exposure. Once the skin had been exposed, conventional after sun products could only soothe and cool the skin. Ladival’s DNA-Repair After Sun uses a topical enzyme that can start to protect the skin after exposure by enhancing the skin’s natural repair process. Studies are showing some benefit to the topical application of various repair enzymes including photolyases. Further research is being conducted but they appear to have a protective effect from the damage caused by sun exposure. This may well have important implications for protection against sun ageing.” 

I was sent the lotion and spray, both of which are non-greasy and suitable for the sensitive skin.
The lotion which is an SPF 15 is of medium consistency and really easy to apply from the squeezy bottle. 
The lotion which is non-scented spreads easily over any area your applying it to and is absorbed really quickly, leaving skin soft and moisturised.
The spray which is a SPF 30 is so easy to apply and handy when your on the go and need a quick application of sun protection. Its the same colour and consistency as the lotion and is easily absorbed when applied to the skin. Both formulas are non-greasy and i felt no residue or product build up on my skin when using these. Some sun protection lotions or sprays can make you feel uncomfortable due to them being over-greasy and make your skin feel sticky. 
Directions of both:
• Shake well before use.
• Apply liberally before exposure to the sun.
• Re-apply regularly, especially after going in the water.
• Protect babies and small children from direct sunlight.
• Use clothing and sun protection with a high sun protection factor (SPF).
Both these products were great on application and felt of high quality, skin loving care, during the day like i had used a luxury moisturiser!
If your wanting to see what products will suit you or your whole family, head on over to check out the whole Ladival Range.
Find out more about Infrared-A Rays, knowledge is power!
Enjoy those sunny days! X Neil.

Tropical Blend - Superfood Shake - NutriPlan

Looking to nourish your body with vitamins and minerals? 
NutriPlan offer Superfood Shakes that can easily be added to your favourite juice or water.
NutriPlan offer many flavours with each one offering different health benefits that your wanting to achieve with your own health. 
The whole range can help with certain issues you might be experiencing and those key points are:
*Lose weight and reduce food cravings with plant based nutrition.

*Detoxify and cleanse with natural detoxifiers such as the spirulina which can be found in the Superfood shake.

*Healthy, natural energy with the help from Guarana fruit which doesn't give you the jitters like coffee can.

*Enrich skin and hair with antioxidant-rich fruits which are packed full with beta-carotene and vitamins.

*Improve digestion with high fibre fruits and plants like Kale found in the Superfood shake.

*Balance blood-sugar levels and reduce cholesterol with nutritious fruits and vegetables like Avocado and Broccoli.

The Superfood shakes are a great way to add nutrients and vitamins into your routine just by adding to your favourite drink, great if you don't or cant take the tablet form.
I was sent the Tropical Blend Shake with 3 exotic fruits that are 
Acai Berry, Passion Fruit & Guarana.
Acai Berry is packed full of its antioxidants and omega 6 & 9 fatty acids that help keep your skin and hair healthy!
Passion fruit is high in vitamin c helping you ward of any colds and also helps strengthen your hair.
Guarana is a natural energy booster which will leave you with a much needed energy boost when you need it!
I tried the Tropical Blend with water and juice and it mixed really well, being a powder, and tasted really lovely. 
You only need a teaspoon a day as that is the recommended dosage stated on the side of the colourful tin.
You can now look your best from within and have an energy boost to start your day!
Available in 7 or 14 day supply and suitable for vegans and vegetarians, the Superfood Shakes are a great way to be used in addition to a balanced and healthy lifestyle!       X Neil.

Secret Scent Box - Delivered To Your Door

If Your into your scents like me and want to discover new fragrances delivered straight to your door then the Secret Scent Box is perfect for you! 
Secret Scent Box is a monthly subscription service that delivers new designer & branded perfumes as well as colognes, straight through your letter box with ease, in its letter box friendly packaging.

Each month, the team behind this great idea hand pick 3 mystery fragrances for you to discover in the sophisticated box the fragrances are kept safe in.
You can be assured you will only receive 100% authentic designer and brand name frags and the box is a 30 day supply which contains 3 x 3ml which roughly is 4 sprays a day. 
In my first ever box i was surprised at how well the box feels and looks, it reminds me of, and when you receive or purchase jewellery. 

The lid lifts off and there is a welcome card greeting you, plus three information cards detailing which scent is which. There is a label on each 3ml scent telling you the name of the fragrance so u can match it up with the card, if you want to know the notes and description of each one.

Calvin Klein: CK ONE SUMMER 2016
CK One Summer 2016 has taken inspiration from a summer adventure in the jungle. A refreshing, rebellious, carefree and exciting fragrance.
Top Notes:
Lime Mojito, Guava, Green Pineapple.
Middle Notes:
Tiare Tahiti
Base Notes:
Coconut Milk, Cedarwood.

Tom Ford: NOIR
An oriental, sensual fragrance that captures the core essence of the tom ford man, refined, urban and sophisticated.
Top Notes:
Bergamot, Caraway, Pink Pepper, Violet Flower.
Middle Notes:
Nutmeg, Black Pepper, Geranium, Clary Sage.
Base Notes:
Amber, Opoponax, Patchouli, Civet, Vanilla.

Paco Rabanna: 1 MILLION
From sparkling fresh fruits and peppermint, to a spicy heart and musky base notes, 1 million is a signature Paco Rabanna scent.
Top Notes:
Grapefruit, Mint, Blood Mandarin.
Middle Notes:
Rose Absolute, Cinnamon, Spice.
Base Notes:
Sensual Leather, Amber.

As you can read from above i received in my first scent box three top quality scents that are each individual from their unique notes. 
I really like this scent box and the whole idea based around it. Secret Scent Box delivers scents to the customer that you may not spot in the shop or be aware of plus the element of mystery, adds the fun factor!
If your looking to start your scent journey all you have to do is visit Secret Scent box and subscribe, your subscription can be cancelled at anytime. Available is 25% off by joining their mailing list!
#secretscentbox                                                    X Neil.

Hawes & Curtis - Mens Shirt Guide

When it comes to wearing shirts they can be fitted into anyone's style and can be worn to make an outfit casual or formal. 
Hawes & Curtis offer a wide selection of shirts that appeal to any mans sense of style, bringing looks to the customer that can be worn through out the day and night.
If your not familiar with Hawes & Curtis their history and experience speaks for itself and is famous for its quintessentially British menswear and womenswear ranges. 
Hawes & Curtis is an internationally recognised brand attracting customers from around the world with its prominent online presence and international expansion. 
If you wear a suit for work and want to change the look of your work outfit, the easy option is to add just a hint of colour to your shirt. This can change the look of your business suit to something more fashion forward bringing your taste and personal style to the office without looking out of place and offers a new option for you from the white shirt look.
If you are not feeling daring then stick with pale colours like blue, pink or light yellow to bring a hint of colour to lift, your suit of the day. 

Patterned shirts are a great way to bring your own unique style to any outfit and can easily be introduced into your wardrobe. 
A patterned shirt can be worn with a suit to bring texture and contrast but can also be worn with chinos and jeans. 
The formal look can be achieved by helping your choice of outfit to look sleeker. Keep the shirt design uncomplicated and make sure you button up all the buttons whilst throwing on some brogues, your be looking smart in whatever venue you attend.

The casual look is any excuse for you to experiment and see what works for you and doesn't. You can play around with any pattern design to see what works with or against, your favourite pair of jeans or chinos. You can also transform to the casual look instantly by wearing a vest or t-shirt underneath your chosen shirt and by wearing the shirt open or buttoned half way, you can then bring the casual look together with trainers or boat shoe.

Hawes & Curtis offer a wide range of menswear and offer a handy size guide and how to measure, on their website. 

All pictures shown are from the extensive fashion range and their shirt range, which offers simple to fashion forward designs to include and appeal to everyone's tastes. The sizes they include are for every man of every shape for a slim, tailored or classic fit. 

Thank you to Hawes & Curtis for sending me 

the Curtis purple floral design slim fit men's shirt - single cuff, 

which arrived in a high quality presentation box to help keep and store your shirt safely when not in use. 

What is great about the whole shirt range is that each piece can easily be fitted into a capsule wardrobe, mixing and matching to create new looks within your wardrobe limitation. 

Take a look at their incredible high quality fashion range of mens shirts and discover the looks that you can achieve with your own unique style. X Neil.

Versus Versace Perfume

On a recent shopping trip last month i found myself at the perfume department, of the store.
What is great about shopping for scents is certain stores have testers out for you to use and decide which ones you like, before you buy. 
I always find stores that have "testers" to use a great help for the customer to see if your sense of smell has changed and to try new scents that have just arrived on the market. 
A quick tip is to write notes on your phone of all the scents you have used and liked and then you can find your new fave scent online at the best price!
What drew me to Versus Versace was the bluish-purple bottle with the cap matching the same colour.
The silver on and around the neck with a gold spray head matching the gold Versus Versace emblazoned on the front, this bottle is stunning with a uniqueness about it.
The scent is described as "Pure Energy" and dedicated for those who are strong-willed and have courage for new challenges whilst also based on contrasts for example, romance to partying.

The Notes:
Kumquat, Star Apple, Lemon.
Heart Notes:
Orange Blossom, Stephanotis, Centifolia Rose.
Base Notes:
Musk, Patchouli, Ambrette Seed.

On first spray the opening is very citrus with the lemon but the apple and kumquat stop the scent from becoming unbearable, the opening was what really caught my attention as it really is beautifully blended with the opening notes working so well together. The orange blossom (which i love) makes an appearance which knocks the citrus completely out of this scent. 
A hint of rose which brings the floral note, starts to bring this scent down to a light musk with hints of fruit with that floral, all harmonising together. 
Versus Versace is superbly blended and really does capture those contrasts to fit any occasion and season.
The scent sits close to the skin and is light compared to some other scents so if you like loud in your face scents, this isn't it. 
I would say this scent could be unisex as it appeals to both genders, when compared to other scents on the market. X Neil.

Qinaz Overnight Lip Mask

Keeping lips moisturised, nourished and healthy looking is made achievable with the Qinaz overnight lip mask. Your lips deserve the same care as the products you spend and use on your skin and lets be honest, your lips do the most task.
When you really think just what your lips come into contact with, the list is endless from liquids to foods to even, yes, other lips!
Your lips should be soft and movable as they serve for the opening for food intake and in the articulation of sound and speech whilst also being a tactile sensory organ, and can be erogenous when used in kissing and other acts of intimacy.
Unfortunately lack of humidity in the air (winter months) can cause dry chapped lips whilst frequent sun exposure in the summer can worsen this condition as well. Habitual licking can cause dry lips as saliva from your tongue, where u constantly lick your lips can strip them of moisture.
A fact well known and proved is more moisture is lost through your lips than any other part of your face or body. 
Seeing your doctor is recommended if you are a constant sufferer of dry, cracked, sore lips.

The Qinaz overnight lip mask claims to renew, restore and retain, giving your lips the tender care they deserve.
You gently wipe your lips before application with a wet or damp towel to help remove any dead skin cells and prepare your lips for the overnight lip mask.
The pot does have an elegant and sophisticated appeal to it with its twist off cap. To access the product, you remove the cap-tab off where its keeping the lip balm safe inside the pot.

The ingredients:
Lanolin, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Beeswax, Rose Oil,
Allantoin, Betaine, Epidermal Growth Factor, 
Glycerin, Snail Secretion, Deionized Water, 
Seaweed Mud, Butylene Glycol, 
Hydrolyzed Collagen, Strawberry Flavour.

Apply to your lips before bedtime and use your favourite lip balm during the day. You can repeat the process every night as needed to keep your lips refreshed and moisturised.
You only need a tiny amount to use to cover your lips and this makes your lips feel really soft and pampered. 
I could definitely smell the Rose oil in this which made it smell heavenly and my lips the next morning felt renewed and so much softer. 
The great thing about using this at night is the product stays longer on your lips without transferring or coming off like your daytime lip balm can do, meaning your lips get the maximum benefit! 
Happy lips, Happy smile! X Neil.