Sep 8, 2019
We’re back with another bargain series post! Last week we posted about all our favourite products under £10 and you guys loved it. So, we decided to carry it on and tell you all about the best products at Fragrance Direct for under £5!
So…? Sorbet Dream Eau de Parfum Spray £2.99
It’s true you can even get perfumes and aftershaves for under £5! This Eau de Parfum spray is super fun and vibrant, packed with pastel-hued notes of sugary marshmallow and raspberry open up the fragrance and moving through to notes of mimosa, pink praline and sweet vanilla.
Adidas Dynamic Pulse Eau de Toilette Spray £3.99
This Eau de Toilette is perfect for on the go, throw it in your gym back or briefcase and you can always freshen up whenever you’re out and about. Dynamic Pulse is aromatic with notes of menthe, star anise, mandarin, grapefruit, apple and mango. For £3.99 it’s an absolute bargain and you don’t need to worry about saving it for special occasions.
L’Oreal True Match Super Blendable Foundation £4.99
The L’Oreal True Match Foundation is the first foundation that matches the colour and texture of your skin perfectly. The result is a beautiful, natural looking coverage without any streaks or caking. At £4.99 this foundation definitely rivals more expensive brands for the amazing wear and coverage it provides.
Sensationail Up To 2 Weeks Gel Colour £3.25
Don’t have the time or money to be going to gel manicures every 2 weeks then this Sensationail kit will keep your nails looking chip free for up to 2 weeks! It offers a super high gloss shine, no dry time and a professional looking finish. This kit offers up to 20 applications so for the £3.25 price tag it’s super affordable!
Garnier Active Micellar Oil Infused Cleansing Water £4.99
This micellar water is perfect for anyone with dry or sensitive skin. It’s a really easy way to remove even waterproof makeup to leave the skin feeling cleansed and nourished in one easy step. For £4.99 you’re getting a HUGE 400ml bottle that will last you 200 uses, an absolute bargain!
L’Oreal Pure Clay Purity Mask £4.99
You can get all the best skincare products on a budget; you don’t need to spend hundreds of pounds on products to get amazing skin. The L’Oreal Pure Clay mask is combined with eucalyptus extract, known for its purifying properties. The creamy texture works deep into the pores, leaving skin purified and matte-looking, without drying out the skin.
AA Skincare Lavendar & Tea Tree Cleansing Face Gel £4.95
This 100ml Face Gel is perfect for travelling and you will not want to be without it. A cleansing gel that is super gentle on the skin but also works for all skin types. This gel has particular benefits for those with congested and acne prone skin with naturally anti-inflammatory, soothing and repairing properties.
Schwarzkopf Gliss Ultimate Colour Shampoo £1.15
This Schwarzkopf shampoo is perfect for colour and highlighted hair. The repair innovation with Liquid Keratin formula that specifically targets and repairs damaged areas on the surface and deep inside the hair. It will leave your hair looking super shiny, luscious and strong!
Systeme Pro Vitamin Dark Brown Root Concealer £1.99
Root regrown can be a nightmare and it’s so expensive to keep heading to the hairdressers every few weeks. This root touch up naturally blends with your existing shade and lasts until your next shampoo. It’s the perfect for solution for in between colour appointments!
Aug 30, 2019
What could it be? When you think of makeup in the ‘90s I bet you think of pencil-thin brows, intense blue eyeshadow or ghostly pale foundation. Well, I can happily say that the one trend making its way back is not within that list. Instead, it’s a trend that never completely went out of the window and is still in fact loved by many. A luscious brown lip. Of course, there are different variations, but a stunning chocolatey brown is set to make the ultimate comeback.
The classic ‘90s brown lip will be infiltrating our makeup bags this autumn and winter as the colour palettes change for the season in both fashion and beauty. Now, when you picture a brown lip, you’re probably thinking of something super dark and unwearable, but it doesn’t have to be! Think nude, nude, nude. One great trick in the lipstick department is that you can lighten any lipstick for a more ‘nude’ look by adding a dab or two of your concealer – not quite to the extremity of foundation lips but to creating a slight ombre effect. Another great thing about doing this is that you can make your lips appear to be bigger than they are with this trick too. On that note, let’s dive in to some products that’ll help you achieve the ultimate ’90s look in no time.
NYX Turnt Up! Lipstick in Dirty Talk – This is a great lipstick that will let you go as soft or as bold as you like. Whether you’re planning on making a statement with a dark chocolatey brown or are planning on the nude trick with a dab of concealer, this lightweight creamy lipstick will glide on effortlessly leaving your lips with high-impact colour.
Max Factor Lipfinity Lip Colour in Caffeinated – A gorgeous, long-lasting lip colour that lasts up to 12 hours. Not only will you have a fresh dose of vibrant colour to play around with, you’ll also have super moisturised lips thanks to the conditioning top coat! Kiss proof, party proof, life proof, food proof – I mean, what more could you ask for?
Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Lipstick in Scandalous – This one is a stunning, high-intensity lip colour that sweeps over your lips leaving you with a sumptuous velvety matte finish. This light-weight liquid lipstick formula delivers true coverage in just a single stroke. It then dries in no time. The trick with lightening these kinds of formulas with a concealer is to dab some on whilst your lips are still wet. Both products will then dry together and blend perfectly!
Sleek MakeUP Lifeproof Concealer – Speaking of our good old trusty concealer, we recommend this pocket hero by Sleek MakeUP. They come in a really great colour range too depending on how light or true brown you want your ‘90s inspired lip to go. We recommend Ristretto Blanc to lighten and Creamy Cocoa to add a touch or warmth back into the lip.
What do you think of the ‘90s brown lip trend that is making its way back just in time for autumn? If you’ll be trying it out for yourself, be sure to tag us on Instagram @fragrancedirect for a chance to be reposted!
Aug 28, 2019
It feels good to do good. So, why not start building up a collection of cruelty-free makeup and beauty goodies? For so long we’ve been buying into our favourite brands just because they’re the ones we know and love, but the truth is, some of the smaller brands who put ethics at the heart of their creations are the ones who are really delivering the goods. Our mission today is to introduce you to some new brands and products that you may not have even come across before to get you acquainted with some amazing new products!
Dr PawPaw Shea Butter Balm is the first product featuring in today’s cruelty-free beauty edit. This amazing 100% natural shea butter formula soothes, dry cracked skin while providing relief for sensitive skin too. It’s an incredible all-in-one product that moisturises dry chapped lips, cuticles, and even your hair! You could say it’s magic in a bottle.
Natura Avocado Infused Sheet Mask is a staple. It’s enriched with the natural oils of avocado that penetrates deep into the skin, hydrates and repairs while smoothing out wrinkles. It’s deeply nourishing, great for anti-ageing (preventative ageing is also a thing) and even vegan.
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge will give you the pixel perfect, flawless base you have always dreamed of. The sponge is completely unique, giving you 3 ways to apply liquid foundation; it has rounded sides to blend large areas of the face with a repeated dabbing or stippling motion. If you don’t have one of these in your makeup bag, you are massively missing out. For the best application, before each use give it a quick wash with a drop of shampoo and it will practically double in size to give you the softest sponge, perfect for applying your foundation, concealer and any other cream products.
BareMinerals BarePro Performance Wear Foundation is a high-performance pressed mineral powder foundation that’s clinically shown to stay right where you apply it for a whopping 12 hours. This breathable foundation formula delivers an ultra-smooth, silky texture that glides effortlessly for superior customisable coverage. This cruelty-free foundation has even been clinically proven to show overall improvements in skin clarity, the reduction of pore size appearance and control shine!
Anastasia Beverly Hills Subculture is an incredible eyeshadow palette perfect for the transition into autumn. Featuring 14 edgy, full-pigment shades ranging from grungy ultra-mattes and duo chromes to bold metallics to give your eyeshadow looks an underground vibe. The shades are all super easy to blend and this palette does indeed have a large mirror inside which makes it perfect for travelling too.
Fudge Cool Brunette Blue-Toning Shampoo is a miracle-worker. So, you’ve heard of purple shampoos for blonde hair but did you know you can tone your brunette hair too? This one is perfect for brunette hair suffering from red and orange tones. This special shampoo uses a repairing opti-plex technology to erase unwanted colour. It’s blue pigment also helps to cleanse and refresh brunette hair leaving it with an even healthier shade.
And there you have it! A bunch of products you can shop right now on our site and they’re all cruelty-free. We’re big fans of these brands for putting ethics at the heart of all of these creations and can’t wait to see more from them. Which of these products will you be trying out for yourself?
Aug 23, 2019
At Fragrance Direct, indulging in luxury for less is pretty much our mantra. We’re all about getting the most for your money and with our fantastically low prices, you can stock up on as many beauty and fragrance goodies as you like without breaking the bank! Today’s post to kick off the bargain series is a bunch of product picks all below £10. So, without further ado, we’ll introduce you both…
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick is one to look out for! It’s a portable version of the brand’s renowned Eight Hour Cream with a subtle hint of colour. Intensely nourishing and protective, the lip formula is infused with emollients, sunscreen and antioxidant Vitamin E to keep the lips moisturised and safe.
Max Factor Face Finity All Day Primer SPF20 is the ultimate secret to long-wear foundation. Max Factor’s Face Finity will extend the wear of your favourite foundation to keep your make-up look in place preventing it from melting away. With the added help of SPF, it will act as an extra barrier against sun damage to the skin.
Zmile 45 Piece All You Need To Go Palette is a makeup must-have with a shade perfect for any occasion. With this 45-piece palette, you’ve got everything you need from eyeshadows to blushers, contours and highlights. This one would also make a great gift for anyone looking to build their makeup collection.
Sally Hansen Salon Chrome Kit contains a Chrome powder, Special Effect Top Coat and a sponge applicator. With this handy nail kit, you can get ready to snap up pictures of your new manicure in no time. Are you a fan of rose gold, midnight blue or gunmetal? If so, you’re in for a treat because we’re stocking all of those, and more!
Tigi Bed Head Colour Goddess Shampoo helps to keep those rich caramel brown and spicy red hues as delicious as the day you put them in your hair with an ultimate aim to shield the hair from untimely colour loss. This sulphate free shampoo smoothes and shines while also helping to protect against UV damage.
Britney Spears Curious Eau de Parfum Spray represents the young woman who pushes boundaries and revels in adventure. This exhilarating white floral fragrance accented with Louisiana Magnolia is also wrapped in the sensuality of vanilla-infused musk. With notes of juicy pear and refreshing lotus, this fragrance is definitely one to try out for a unique twist on your usual fruity scent.
Beckham Homme Eau de Toilette Spray is a stylish and masculine fragrance, reflecting all the charisma and charm of a superstar. With woody and spicy elements, Beckham Homme is a distinctive fragrance which is made up of citrus, coriander and ginger top notes, heart notes of leather, cashmere wood and rosemary on top of a base of musk, patchouli and mahogany. Perfect for the modern man.
Elizabeth Arden Blue Grass Eau de Parfum Spray is a classic. It’s clean and fresh with bergamot, orange blossom, lily, spice and sandalwood notes – a stunning combination. This refreshing scent is an ideal everyday perfume that will be sure to awaken the senses and have you feeling energised in the mornings.
Shawn Mendes Signature Eau de Parfum Spray is the first scent released by the Canadian singer. With fruity notes of pineapple, red apple and lemon which melt in a sweet heart of maple sap, frangipani and rose. All of which sit on a base of dulce de leche, musk and cedar.
Yardley Elegant Iris Eau de Toilette is inspired by bountiful, beautiful and blossoming floral bouquets. With fresh and bright scents of daisy with crispy green leaves and red fruits, the elegant, contemporary woody floral fragrance bursts into a feminine heart combining iris, wild rose, freesia and jasmine resting on a warming, woody-ambery base.
We made a promise and we delivered! Which of these goodies for less than £10 will you be trying out for yourself? Make sure to tag your purchases on socials with #FDBeauty for the chance to appear on our story!
Aug 21, 2019
Come rain or shine, festival happenings are pretty unpredictable. Will it be the time of your life? Will it rain? Will the sun be unbearably hot and burn every last inch of skin on show? You’ve got to give it to English weather – you never know what you’re going to get. However, one thing you can do to take control of whatever situation is to be prepared. Beyond the essentials. Today we’re bringing you some of the best tips out there when it comes to surviving any music festival. Take a look.
Wipes, wipes, wipes
Baby wipes will be your saviour along with deodorant, of course. They’ll also be your shower. When you’re well into your third day of camping and there’s no bathroom in sight, a pack of refreshing wipes will keep you somewhat refreshed. You can even go as far as buying deodorant wipes too. Paired with a fresh fragrance, this combo will help to give you an extra boost of energy.
FD Recommends: Pacifica Coconut Milk & Kale Extract Deodorant Wipes
SPF, don’t forget
When it comes to SPF, so many people reserve sun creams for only the sunny days. Don’t. To fully protect your skin, you should be wearing it every day. Many clinical trials have proven that one of the biggest environmental factors that contributes to skin ageing in exposure to the sun. Knowing that, why wouldn’t you choose to protect it if that means you can increase your chances of having youthful-looking skin for longer. When you’re at a festival, outside and dancing around all day, this is a prime time to wear it!
FD Recommends: Piz Buin 1 Day Long Lotion SPF30
Keep it clean
A little bit of hand sanitiser goes a long way. There’s no way to prepare yourself for the monstrosity that is the state of the portaloo when you need it most. So just go in, get it done, come out and have a pump (or ten) of your hand sanitiser and you’ll be good to go. By killing off any nasty bacteria on your hands too, this should mean that you’ll be a lot less likely to come home feeling under the weather too.
FD Recommends: Anatomicals Hand Sanitiser
Bags and bobbles
Aug 8, 2019
If you’re a lover of Instagram and all things beauty, you’re probably already following at least one or two makeup artists or beauty pages. But what goes on behind closed doors? What is it like to grow up in an academic-driven environment when your dreams are silver-lined with exciting cities, endless photoshoots and a never-ending supply of luxurious makeup? We caught up with Rebecca Owen, formally known as Becca (MUA), who you may have spotted on Fragrance Direct’s IGTV in between her time working as a freelance hair and makeup artist blessing the faces of many beautiful brides and Nasty Gal models.
Did you always want to build your own business?
I did. I think as a makeup artist it’s a natural progression. I was a hairdresser first and I never worked for myself – it was always for a company. Then I worked on the counters at MAC [cosmetics] and I think you just naturally build into going freelance.
Growing up, what careers were you advised to go in to?
Definitely not hair and makeup. When I was at school obviously it’s very academic-driven and I was like, “No, I want to go and do hair” and I wanted to do makeup at the time, but they never came hand in hand. It was either hair or beauty and even then, it was just a tiny bit of makeup because you know I’m 31, I was 16 at the time and if you were a makeup artist everyone said, “Well what job will you have?”. I was very much guided into doing A-levels and going to uni and all my brothers and sisters did. But I wanted to go and do hair and I knew I was more of a creative type then and I’m just glad that at the time I followed what I knew and went into hair from there.
What would you say is the best thing about makeup?
How it makes a person feel; empowered and confident. When I’ve done someone’s makeup it’s not the final look, as in I’m not looking at how beautiful they look it’s just the feeling of seeing someone walk away – it’s just the empowerment of makeup.
What one product would you say is the most empowering to you?
Definitely a lipstick. The days I feel tired or feel a bit down or I’m in a rush or anything like that, I feel like with a lipstick you just put it on, and you look more pulled together. Even if you don’t want to be seen on one of the days, just knowing that you’ve got that makes you feel more confident.
Would you say that you’re often creative and experimental with makeup or are you a lover of natural glam?
On other people, I’m creative and a lover of bold makeup. On myself personally, I’ve had many years where I used to experiment with makeup and when I go out, I like a smoky eye but I’m not as experimental on myself. But on other people, definitely. I just love how you can tell a story with it and to be able to create that is just amazing.
Would you say social media has changed the game for you at all since you started?
Definitely, yeah! I was having this conversation with friends the other day who are makeup artists. When I first started out, social media didn’t really exist – Facebook did but you would never put your makeup on there, it wasn’t really a thing. I feel like I grew and qualified in makeup and became a makeup artist outside of Instagram, so I’ve had to teach myself how to be better on Instagram. That’s why even now, I’m not the best but it’s such a powerful tool and it’s taken me a while to get my head around it and put myself out there. It’s amazing really.
Who would you say throughout your career you’ve looked up to?
Makeup artist-wise, I would say that when I first started out, I used to watch Lisa Eldridge who’s a professional makeup artist when I did makeup in my early twenties and she was just amazing. She did tutorials and was always a bit different from everyone else and I used to think, “I want to live in London and be doing shoots all the time” and I just really looked up to her and felt that was what I wanted to do. Then other makeup artists along the way I look up to and admire are a lot of MUA’s I follow on Instagram like Nikki DeRoest and HarryMakesItUp [Harriet Hadfield]. From the beginning I just really admired them, thought they were really like me almost and they were just really down to earth.
What advice would you give to other aspiring hair and makeup artists that want to work for themselves?
Follow your dreams. Follow your passion. Don’t compare yourself to others – it’s the worst thing you can do especially where Instagram and social media are so big, you just can’t compare yourself to other people. Everybody goes at their own pace. I’m 31 and feel like I’m only now at a point where I’ve still got so much to grow and so many things that I still want to do. I’d say don’t try and be someone else. Makeup is creative, hair as well, and there is enough room in this industry for everyone!
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