New In My Beauty Cabinet

One thing I have no trouble spending money on is clothes but beauty products are a different matter all together, once I find a product I like I become that loyal school friend terrified to mix it up incase I lose my security blanket so when Ocean finance* dangled a £50 carrot enabling me to refresh my beauty stash I jumped at the opportunity.

As with all of my disposable income its not long before it starts to burn a metaphorical hole in my pocket so the first thing I had to splurge on was a luxe shampoo and conditioner duo, now if you're a long time Cagney & Lacer you'll know I've been a Pureology devotee forever but after hearing all the praise for the Ouai brand and more than a good thing or two about the Kiehls conditioner I knew it was time to get spendy. Almost every product from Ouai sounds too good to be true but thanks to a rave review from Lily I decided the clean shampoo would be a good place to start and boy did I make a good pick. Not only does it have the most glorious scent but it manages to detoxify my hair of all the gunk and grime without striping away any of my colour unlike some (I'm looking at you Bumble Sunday shampoo) as it's paraben and sulphate free. I then pair this with the Kiehls amino acid conditioner which leaves my hair feeling healthy but not weighed down even though its packed to the rafters with goodness like jojoba and coconut oil. Winner.

My next must purchase was an old favourite, the travel size Caudalie beauty elixir in swish limited edition Jason Wu designed packaging - if you've never tried this facial spritz come toner and are a lover of peppermint then you're seriously missing out. Some bloggers have dubbed this a 'princess product' meaning its a nice to have but I beg to differ as for me personally I see a real difference in my skin when I use this which makes this product a real necessity. Sure it smells fabulous but there's something about this pint sized hydrating mist that I can't quite put my finger on. Promise me you'll give it a try if you haven't before?

Finally I broke my £50 budget (what's new?) with the Bobbi Brown Pot Rogue in Fresh Melon after learning about the merits of cream blush at a Mama Social event hosted by Emma, a Bobbi Brown make-up artist. While powder blushers will always hold a special place in my heart (especially those from Max Factor and Tarte) I've quite enjoyed using this peachy pink to bring a flush of colour to my cheeks that actually stays put all day.

What do you make of the new additions to my beauty cabinet? Have you tried any of them before?

*In collaboration with Ocean finance, all thoughts & opinions my own.

The Five Beauty Buys I Can't Be Without

Beauty posts are few and far between around these parts especially since I've had Sadie, what can I say? I've got my make-up routine down, read I throw my make-up on my face as fast as I can before Sadie wants to hold my make-up brushes but sometimes a new product, or two come along that are worth sharing, throw in a few old favourites and you've got my five beauty buys that I can't be without.

Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue in Vanilla - If glow giving bases that you can slap on with your fingers are your kind of thing then you'll dig this lightweight complexion even-outer from Bare Minerals as much as me. I love how a little goes a long way and how quickly you can achieve fresh faced (almost) perfection. Day to day I don't reach for anything else.

NARS Creamy Concealer in Vanilla - After having a brief dalliance with the Urban Decay naked skin concealer and the Make-up Forever full cover concealer I'm back to my hide anything knight in shining armour from Nars. I've spoken about this favourite before (here, here and here) so I'll not drone on, all I'll say is that if you're looking for a new cover all I'd suggest this in a heartbeat.

BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone - Think highlighters and I'm pretty sure BECCA will be the first high end brand that comes to mine. After reading a number of rave reviews I succumbed and purchased the powder version, for the record I like it but it's not a patch on the liquid version*. I've worn this mixed in with my base (a little too glowy for everyday) and just on the high points of my face for a pretty, more wearable look. My make-up just isn't complete without it.

Max Factor Creme Puff Blusher in Seductive Pink - Ever since Ruth recommended the Max Factor creme puff blusher I haven't looked at another blush since. I've been using the nude mauve pink for months and a few weeks ago I added seductive pink to my stash. It's got a really natural brightening quality and even when you've not had enough sleep (baby problems) you can look pretty perky with a swirl of this finely milled favourite.

Delilah Brow Line in Ash - For as long as I can remember I've been loyal to Soap & Glory's Brow Archery but ever since I got this as a gift with purchase from Space NK I've been smitten and I've even received brow compliments. Brow Line is literally the most fitting name for this product as the nib is incredibly fine which means you can give colour to even the tiniest of brow hairs. I doubt I'll be giving another brow product a look in again.

Which beauty buys can't you be without? Do you love any of my faves?

*PR Sample.

Birthday Wishing

(L-R) Deliciously Ella Everyday/ Sunday Riley Good Genes/ Becca Shimmering Skin Moonstone/ Florence Ankle Boots/ MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick/ Proenza Schouler PS1 Tiny Satchel/ Silk Eye Mask/ Monica Vinader Ziggy Pendant/ Clinique Take The Day Off/ Frayed Crop Jacket/ Shore Projects Watch/ Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay/ Mini Chain Messenger/ Gemma Lace Up Sandals/ Origins Smoothing Soufflé/ MV Organic Travel Set

Can you believe this time next week I'll be married? I'll probably be sat down enjoying my three course wedding breakfast right about now, isn't that crazy? Also don't you love that it's called a wedding breakfast? To say I'm excited is an understatement yet I can't say I'm enjoying my final week as a Miss just yet as I've been taken down by a viral infection which was masquerading as tonsillitis. Gutted doesn't quite cover it and without sounding like a serious whinger I can't remember the last time I felt so ill. Pity party over I wonder whether my health landslide was brought on by my amazing hen weekend, my sister from another mister and maid of honour Gemma organised the most memorable couple of days in London and for that I'm eternally grateful. Check out my Insta for a few clucky snaps.

Two days after our wedding Craig, Sadie and I are heading off to Lake Como for our honeymoon to enjoy some much needed R&R, we'll also be celebrating my 28th birthday while we're in Italy (my first birthday abroad and as a Mrs) so I thought it was high time I compiled a wish list, you know, in case you wanted to buy me a birthday gift before I jetted off? I jest, I jest. Now it wouldn't be one of my birthday lists without a seriously luxe, over the top item - say hello to the Proenza Schouler PS1 tiny satchel which I've been coveting for longer than I care to admit. A more purse friendly find is the Chanel inspired cross body bag from Zara, isn't she a little beaut? MAC Velvet Teddy would fit perfectly inside either of these leather loves don't you think?

Other notable picks, you know, the ones I can't stop thinking about are the Florence ankle boots from Bath babes Seven Boot Lane, not only are these the perfect update to my much loved Sam Edelmans but they share their name with my daughter, that's a sign right? Another Chanel inspired piece is the white frayed cropped jacket from Hush which would be uber chic in Como, not forgetting the gold wear-with-everything timepiece from Shore Projects which needs to be on my wrist pronto. While we're talking jewellery it'd be rude of me not to mention the Monica Vinader pendant which you can have engraved with your initial, I actually borrowed the same necklace from Gemma last weekend and I must confess, I didn't want to give it back.

Last but by no means least are all the beauty, skincare and honeymoon essentials (hello Sam Edelman sandals and silky eye mask) that I'd love to open in Italy. Since becoming a mum I rarely buy skin and body care prods for myself so I thought my birthday would be the ideal time to be treated. I recently tried a sample of Good Genes and it's incredible and MV Organics can do no wrong in my eyes so their little travel kit would be greatly appreciated. I'm currently sans cleanser, body lotion and highlighter (that's terrible for a blogger right?) so I'd adore Cliniques offering, that Becca compact and a tub of Origins pepperminty goodness. I'm also nearly out of Blackberry & Bay and would love to own a personalised bottle, which is something you can get for free (before the 15th of April) thanks to Lily with the code LILYPEBBLES.

Next time you hear from me I'll be a married lady but for now I bid you adieu as a singleton with a curry calling my name. Fingers crossed I can sweat out this infection...

What do you make of my birthday lust list?

Exploring Space NK York

For a long time Space NK has been my happy place, that destination store that I have to find whenever I'm in a new city so you can imagine my glee when I discovered a store was finally coming to York. I can't tell you the number of times I've visited York ready to hit up my favourite beauty boutique only to remember there isn't one so walking through those newly painted doors I had a real 'about time' moment. Located on busy Davygate sandwiched between Hobbs and Accessorize you can't miss the beauty and lifestyle mecca complete with an elevated luxe interior - think the usual chic Space NK interior you know and love but with modern finishes and sleek new signage, LOVE. 

Visiting on opening day (the 10th December) I was treated to a mini make over by Space NK artist Grace - check out the results on Insta. One of the best things about Space NK is the breadth of brands available, don't get me wrong a make up counter refresh is always awesome but it's so much better when the artist isn't forced to push just one brand, the end result is more considered and reflective of your own make-up bag. With so much beauty knowledge at my finger tips I asked Grace which brand she'd use if she could only pick one and was surprised to discover the answer was BECCA, a brand that's now at the top of my to try list. When it came to skincare Grace and PR maven Jini agreed Sunday Rileys Luna was the best thing since sliced bread, I managed to get my Cult & Smith painted mitts (SO worth the hype) on a sample so watch this space for my thoughts.

I've been a huge fan of Space NK Leeds (my local store) for a long time but I think it's safe to say my heart has been won by another - York has all of the brands from Margaret Dabbs to the aforementioned Sunday Riley and Cult & Smith plus amazing and knowledgable beauty lovin' team.

So when are you planning a visit to York?

Underneath The Christmas Tree

First of all let me wish you a very happy new year! I I trust you're following my lead by scoffing the last of the festive foods? I'm talking chocolates, cheese and all of the pickled goods. Which begs the question why do picked onions only come out at Christmas? I think we need to start a petition to make them an all year round snack. 

I've been itching to get my annual what I got for Christmas post up as a final hurrah to 2015 but festive fun, baby Sadie and wedding planning has truly taken precedence so here you have it, just a few days later than planned. As always I'm beyond grateful for all the gifts I received and the selection I'm sharing came from a mixture of loved ones, family and friends. 

Jo Malone screams Christmas to me so I was thrilled to get a beautiful cracker especially after I've coveted one for a few years.

Luxe beauty buys are always well received and so are personalised gifts. I found the coaster in my stocking from Craig and it made me smile from ear to ear as it's something silly I say to Sadie.

I love Alice in Wonderland and even had an Alice themed 21st birthday party so this china cup is so me. I'm sure a cup of salted caramel hot chocolate will taste even sweeter from this cup.

I may have let out a little scream when I opened the Olympus Pen. 2016 is the year I will improve my photography so I hope you'll agree that todays snaps look pretty swish.

Have you ever seen a sweeter filled copper basket? Nigella, White Company cashmere socks and Origins ginger goodies - my kinda heaven.

It may be a new year but Kez still likes to photobomb. The huge polar bear was a Christmas gift of Sadies but it's snazzy neckwear is all mine. Faux fur perfection non? 

I had no clue I was going to receive this rose gold Charlotte Tilbury make-up bag but I've welcomed it with open arms. It's the perfect size for my upcoming honeymoon, eeeeep!

The boy did outstandingly well as always - introducing my new aviator style jacket from Olive Clothing with a rather creased Hush t-shirt peeking out underneath. The perfect additions to my 2016 capsule wardrobe which I'm determined to build.

Did you have the most amazing Christmas break? Which present were you thrilled to receive? 

Sephora Happened

When any friend of mine travels across the pond they know a Sephora trip is inevitable. American Sephoras rule and with no state side plans in the near future I enlisted my best friends help with my well considered lust list, thankfully she came up trumps so I thought it was about time I shared my black and white bagged goodies with you before I went beneath the packaging.

Anyone into their skincare will know Carolines blog and more importantly Kate Somerville. I can't tell you how long I've dreamt of owning the infamous Goat Milk moisturiser and now it's all mine. I'm currently working my way through an Elemis moisture giver so I promise to report back with all my goat shaped findings but the expectation bar is set pretty high. Next up was a Sephora X nail polish in my favourite kind of milky taupey shade, officially known as Thrilling. I adore the minimal packaging and while the brush is a little thin compared to my favourites from Essie and Nails Inc the colour is practically opaque in one swipe. Impressive.

My next pick may come as a surprise as you can technically buy them here but I think I must have been experiencing a when in Rome moment as I asked Gem to pick up the First Aid Beauty facial radiance pads. Now while every blogger under the sun raves about the magical powers of Pixi Glow Tonic I personally found it too much for my skin and have since given AHAs a wide berth but something about these pre soaked exfoliating discs appealed. Lets hope my skin enjoys the extra attention.

Saving the very best until last is the thing I love most about Sephora, there throw-all-the-best-brands-together sets and in particular this Give Me Some Lip collection. Now originally I bought this as a gift but on arrival I was instantly wooed by its charming lip sized packaging and the I-need-to-try-that contents. With mini lip products from Tarte, Bite, Marc Jacobs and Fresh I'd be a fool to give this to another home. Right?

Are you forever wishing Sephora would come to the UK?

The Elemis Power Booster Facial

One of the things that's taken a back seat since becoming a mum is relaxing me time so when an email popped up from the amazing ladies at Elemis Harvey Nichols asking if I'd like to try one of their Power Boost Facials* I was texting my mum for babysitting assistance faster than you can say pamper. I've been a long time advocate of Brit brand Elemis but must confess it's been a while since I fully got to grips with their skincare collection so I was giddy to get to counter. 

On arrival I was given an in-depth Skin Lab Consultation which included a picture being taken of my skin to show everything from wrinkles to UV spots and even the texture of my skin. We quickly discovered my skin was dehydrated and amazingly the only wrinkles I possess are laughter lines which I'm more than happy about. After my consultation I was shown all the beautiful products that'd work perfectly for me before being directed to the relaxation pod to enjoy 30 minutes of calm in the form of the Modern Skin facial. You completely forget you're in a busy beauty hall as your troubles and aches quickly drift away as you lie back in the massage chair, which is an experience in itself. To say it pummels you is an understatement but after some serious kneading I was in heaven. With lotions, potions and everything in between applied my skin felt super soft and had an incredible glow, so much so that I confidently walked around Harvey Nichols without a scrap of make-up on, something I'd never dream of doing.

Since returning home I've been so thrilled with the results of my facial that I've added the Hydra Nourish Night Cream and Hydra Balance Day Cream to my skincare routine. Now the question is can I think of a better way to spend a spare hour and £30 in Harvey Nichols? I think not. Elemis you're well and truly back on my radar.

Have you tried any products from Elemis? Do you love getting pampered?

*I was a guest of Elemis, all chilled out thoughts my own.

Review: The OPI Hawaiian Collection

If you're not quite ready to put away those Summer brights or haven't seen any real sunshine this year (tell me I'm not the only one who hasn't been abroad this annum?) then let me introduce you to your saving grace, a nail polish collection that makes you look tanned, say aloha to OPI's Hawaiian Collection* from Just My Look. Now I'll level you with, since having Sadie nail painting hasn't been at the top of my priority list but with a spare moment on our recent staycation I cracked out this super cute set of minis and I was bowled over. 

Not only do the shades have the most babin' names, from Suzi Shops and Island Hops to That's Hula-rious (genius right?) but the colours are beautifully opaque in just two swipes. I've been sporting Aloha from OPI, the punchy coral meets red shade for over a week and chips have only just started appearing, which is completely unheard of on my nails so snaps to OPI for the cute colours and formula. The only thing that isn't my fave is the brush, if it was just a tad wider I'd be over the moon but when you're getting four polishes for £9.95 you can't really go wrong. So if you're new to OPI, fancy broadening your nail polish stash or want those 'have you been on holiday?' compliments I suggest you check out this wearable, pocket size collection stat.

Do you rate OPI polishes? Do mini beauty products float your boat?

*PR Sample, all tropicana inspired thoughts my own.

Review: Bumble & Bumble Don't Blow It

Remember that shampoo called Wash n Go? Well that's me when it comes to hair. I wish I could braid my hair, give my locks a proper blow dry or just curl those follicles properly but sadly these aren't skills I possess. In all honesty I'm just a bit lazy when it comes to my mane and I live for those not so perfect, slightly undone, cool girl locks. If this is the kinda hair that you covet too then I've got the product for you. Enter Bumble and Bumble's latest arrival, Don't Blow It (H)air Styler.

So how does this time saving hair product work? Simply wash hair as normal then add a generous helping of this cream based prod to towel dried locks by scrunching or twisting, then let the magic happen. After just one use of this wonder product I found my natural wavy locks looked healthier, more defined, less frizzy and even a little curler. A friend even commented on my barnet saying it looked as though I'd curled it with GHDs. Result non? I wondered if I was experiencing beginners luck so tried Don't Blow It for a second time to discover my hair looked just as fabulous as it did on first use. 

Could this be the answer to lazy girl hair woes? In my experience hell yes but I've already got wavy hair. Don't Blow It will only enhance the texture your momma gave ya so I'm not sure how this would work for straight haired gals but that just means you've got to try it and report back! Buy the mini size for £12 or commit to the big one, like I did for £23. As the product I've been waiting for all my life I'm pretty ecstatic, Bumble and Bumble you've done it again.

Are you low maintenance when it comes to hair? Will you be giving this a bash?

Empties #12

You know it's time to pull together an empties post when there's a gang of empty products in your shower, is it just me who finishes all my products at once? Answers in the comments. As my twelfth empties post I'm sure all you all know the situation but in case you're a complete newb it goes a little something like this - mini reviews on products I've actually got to the bottom of, none of this first impressions business. Now let's get going...

Liberty London Geranium Body Wash - I daren't admit how long this beautifully packaged body wash has been hanging out in my shower but I will say I'm happy to finally complete such an epic sized bottle. Whilst I love the handy pump, something all shower gels should come with in my opinion, I found the contents to be ok. The scent was incredibly fresh but not one to linger, a quality I dig in a body product. At £16 I think there's much better shower accompaniments out there so this wouldn't be a repurchase.

La Roche-Posay Serozinc - Ah Serozinc, the humble French toner which the blogging realm went crazy for after a rave review from Caroline. This is the second can I've completed and while I was previously sat on the fence I've now decided where I stand, and it's team Serozinc. This will never be a luxurious toning step (don't worry Caudalie Beauty Elixir, you're safe) however what it lacks in luxury it makes up for in spot fighting abilities, just one spritz and any angry spot goes from hero to zero. Even though I'm not the most blemish prone gal around I can't imagine being without a can for those spot battling days. Definitely one to check out!

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo - Sulphate free shampoos are my jam and I'm yet to find one that does as good a job as Pureology. The hydrate shampoo manages to cleanse my hair whilst leaving things nicely moisturised too. Hydrate has that perfect balance down. Want a more in depth rave? Look no further. An easy repurchase.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm - Step forward the creme de la creme of lip balms. I've never tried anything else from Nuxe but boy can they make a lip balm. This thick Terrys chocolate orange scented balm has tiny exfoliating beads suspended in the formula to give you the softest lips around, ideal for pre lipstick application as this baby dries matte. At almost £10 this isn't the cheapest lip balm out there but trust me when I say this lasts ages.

Body Shop Virgin Mojito Body Scrub* - Rivalling Soap & Glorys Breakfast Scrub for pole position as my top body exfoliator is Body Shops Virgin Mojito Scrub. Not only is the scent the perfect zesty AM pick up but the unusual gel like texture means skin is exfoliated without things getting overly scrubby, you know the kind of scrubs I'm talking about (anyone else singing TLC now?) I've done a full review of this limey scented wonder here so I'll refrain from harping on. My advise? Give this a whiff next time you pass a Body Shop, you won't regret it.

Have you ever tried any of my empties? Do you have a favourite?

Don't forget there's still time to win a whopping eight products from Soap & Glory in my birthday giveaway here including the amazing Solar Powder Bronzer. What you waiting for? 

*PR Sample, all thoughts my own.

Happy 3rd Birthday Cagney & Lace + Giveaway

Well hello August, where did you come from? I'll refrain from saying where has the year gone but seriously, the phrase time flies when you're having fun could be my new catchphrase especially as I'm here to celebrate Cagney and Lace's third birthday! I began C&L as a creative outlet to talk and share all things fashion, never did I think it'd become an online diary marking not only my favourite outfits but life events, beauty loves and general life musings. While I've battled with consistent posting towards the end of my pregnancy I'm keen to get back on the horse and blog with the same vigour and carefree nature I had at the very beginning. Now who's with me?

One thing I'm getting pretty giddy for is a cheeky blog design switch up, exciting yes? I can't wait! Keep your peepers peeled because things are going to be a-changing real soon. To fly the birthday flag I thought it'd only be right to run a celebratory giveaway so if you fancy getting your mitts on a Soap & Glory goodie bag including all the products you can see above (yes that is the amazing Solar Powder bronzer you spy) all you need to do is enter via the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway  
The 3rd birthday giveaway is open to UK readers only (sorry International friends) and will run until Monday 10th August. 

Here's to another three birthdays *raises glass of pink lemonade*

The Blogger Induced MAC Haul

Since blogging has become such a part of my make up (no pun intended) I've found myself coveting products I'd previously never given a second thought, I think they call it blogger enabling? In my teens MAC was the only place I'd buy make-up from but as I got older matured I discovered a whole host of head turning brands. That said I recently noticed my Notes section getting busy with products from the black and white packaged power house that I keen to try, enter a free next day delivery code and the rest is history #overduebabyproblems.

The first two items to 'fall' into my basket were the Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Rubenesque and single eyeshadow in Expensive Pink, a duo that says aloha Summer and one that I couldn't get out of my head since watching Estees tutorial. With Estee rocking similar colouring to myself (big up fair skin and blue peepers) I thought this mermaid-esque paint pot and pinky eyeshadow combo might look just as swell on me as it does on Estee, I'll be sure to let you know.

Next up was a limited edition lipstick from the MAC Is Beauty range called Make Me Gorgeous. This addition was spurred on by Abigail Alice who not only has a beautiful blog but looks awesome in this Crosswires meets Costa Chic shade. Did I need it? Probably not. Will it be the perfect pick me up shade post bambino? Absolutely. Finally after much debate I snapped up the forever sold out Lip Pencil in Soar - not to achieve Kylie Jenners pout but to recreate Lilys combo of Soar and MACs Mehr, a lipstick which I picked up recently with a Debenhams voucher that I've fallen hard for (see me sporting it here).

Now don't you think all this make-up deserves a new place to rest it's head? Maybe it's time I was enabled with some make-up bag recommendations?

Do you find yourself drawn to MAC products? 

Review: The Body Shop Virgin Mojito Collection

If there's one drink I've been relishing during pregnancy it's a virgin mojito, the Queen of all mocktails. Ain't nothing like lime and mint muddled together to make you feel like you're on holiday so you can imagine my delight when Body Shop announced their latest limited edition collection, Virgin Mojito*. Created with base ingredients of zesty lime and fresh mint from the Caribbean team Body Shop couldn't have hit the Summer scented nail on the head better if they'd tried. I've been testing out the body scrub and body sorbet from the five product strong collection and must say I'm pretty impressed. 

Now I'm pretty diligent when it comes to body moisturisation but exfoliation is another matter, is anyone else a poor show on the body scrub front? I could however become a convert with the Virgin Mojito scrub, not only is the scent heavenly but it's incredibly light in formulation, in fact it's completely different to The Body Shops usual scrubs which can be heavy and a tad oily in consistency. The tiny grains in this scrub leave skin silky smooth while the whipped, gel like texture is just dreamy, perfect for those humid balmy days which seem to be making an appearance right now. 

If you're a Cagney and Lace regular you'll know how much I dig a body butter (just read my empties posts) so I must admit a Body Sorbet isn't something I'd usually gravitate towards. That being said this light, almost frosty formula still packs a moisturising punch whilst being incredibly cooling - ideal for taking on holiday or on swollen pregnant legs. Take your pick ladies, I know which I'd prefer!

What do you make of the new Virgin Mojito collection? Are you a huge mocktail fan like me?

*PR Samples, all thoughts and zesty opinions my own.

A Diptyque Dupe: The Rosie For Autograph Candle

If you're a regular around these parts you may how partial I am to a luxurious candle or five but you may not know about my penchant for pyjamas, especially those designed by model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley so when I found myself with a candle gift with purchase after a pyjama spree I was pleased. That was until I opened the packaging and experienced the Rosie for Autograph scent, let's just say I was elated. The reason? The Rosie for Autograph scent is almost identical to that of Diptyques Roses, one of my favourite fragrances that is truly beautiful but comes at an eye watering price point, between £20-40 depending on the candle size you buy.

The Rosie For Autograph offering is a mere £15 for either three minis or the standard size which comes with the most Instagramable rose gold lid. In terms of scent pay off there really is little difference - within moments of lighting my mini candle our entire living room was filled with that heavenly rose scent and I'm not talking the artificial kind but that delicate, fragrant rose centifolia scent which I discovered is handpicked from roses in the South of France. Surely the same stomping ground for the team at Diptyque? Ladies and gentlemen, I think I've found myself a dupe. Now did someone say there was a matching fragrance too? *Runs to Marks & Spencer*

Do you love rose scented candles? Which luxurious candle brand is your favourite?

Lifestyle: May In Pictures & Words

Celebrating the royal birth with lemon drizzle - Picnic in the garden - Our new cabinet looking fly - Cloud looking seriously at home - Who knew Nutella disguised misshapen pancakes so well? - Once a rank boiler cupboard, now our baby's wardrobe - My baby shower invite - Tanya Burrs rocky road - A great read, especially for £1 - My little ones OOTDs will soon be better than mine - Baby Wild - All my faves - Baby shower artwork - Polaroid fun - I can't stop baking - Saturdays with this one are the best.

It's official, we're half way through the year - how did that even happen? I'd love to say we're now experiencing the usual June weather and I'm writing this with a Magnum in hand but that couldn't be further from the truth, things have become seriously Wintery - I don't know whether to wear a jumper or reach for my thermals! May has been one wonderful month, I finished work for maternity leave, a royal baby was born and my friends hosted the most epic baby shower in my honour. I can't think of a month where I've felt so loved and supported. One real turn around we've seen this past month is in our home, after living in our beloved cottage for twenty one months things are officially looking good. Our baby's nursery is complete, I'm absolutely thrilled with our living room and even the dining room has had a little makeover, all in perfect time for the arrival of Baby Wild. 

This past week has seen me officially nesting as I've been tidying the house, painting our love seat outside and even reaching for the baking tins - fingers crossed baby's arrival is imminent. Can you believe I'm now just over 38 weeks pregnant? While I've missed bringing outfit posts to Cagney and Lace (see my last one here) I've really enjoyed writing lifestyle posts although I must say I'm excited for the revival of the humble OOTD - did someone say new wardrobe?

Obsessed With - While baking is a strong contender for this months obsession, my current favourite recipes to make are rocky road and triple chocolate cookies (make them yourself here) one product I've not stopped reaching for is MACs Patisserie, appropriately named non? Paired with a bolder brow and the Max Factor creme puff blush in nude mauve I look suitably glowy and fresh faced, an essential look to sport throughout pregnancy. Another shout out has got to go to Hello Fashion magazine, I'm usually a Grazia girl at heart but recently they've been focussing far too much on celebrity gossip for my liking. Enter Hello Fashion which keeps things fashiony, as the name would suggest - definitely one to pick up next time you're in Marks and Spencer or WHSmith.

Lusting After - It's got to be a polaroid camera, I fancied one a couple of Christmas' ago but after seeing my friend Scarletts in action at my baby shower one has shot to the top of my wish list. Another item that's been plaguing my mind is a night cream/serum. I'm so happy with my morning skincare routine but things get pretty basic when it comes to lights out, after discovering the Nude Progenius Treatment Milk at Beauty Chat Live I've been debating taking the plunge and committing to an additional product post cleanser. Watch this space.  

Looking Forward To - Without sounding incredibly predictable I think I speak for both Craig and I when I say we're looking forward to the birth of our baby. While many people have been asking if I feel anxious or apprehensive I can honestly say I don't, I just feel real excitement to meet our little creation (when he or she is good and ready) and to begin a new chapter of our lives as a little family.

What did you get up to in the month of May? Don't forget to follow my Instagrammin' antics here.