EASY NEW YEAR'S EVE HAIRSTYLE IDEAS

Hi guys! Tonight is a night a lot of people look forward to all year. Nice food, good company and some dance moves are a recipe for a fabulous night. You probably picked out your outfit months in advance and thought out a whole look already. I know exactly how I want to look on this New Year's Eve. I have my shoes, dress, purse, jewelry and makeup figured out. 

Just one more thing... How do I wear my hair?? I'm still trying to match the ideal hair to my outfit. Straight hair, long waves, half up half down, faux bob, tight ponytail,... Too many options! I'll probably decide last minute. 

I gathered some great hair inspiration for tonight's festivities. Hopefully you get some ideas from it if you haven't decided either.

High voluminous ponytail - Kim Kardashian

Half up Half down - Kate Beckinsale

 Accent braid - Jennifer Aniston

Low sophisticated ponytail - Stacy Keibler

Big, voluminous and wavy - Adriana Lima

Slicked back - Joanna Krupa

Hair jewel - Yolanthe Cabau

Super straight - Irina Shayk

My two favorites for tonight are the slicked back look or the super straight one. But I'll just see what works best with my makeup. 

I wish you all an amazing night, I hope everyone is celebrating the beginning of 2014 like they wanted to and with people they love. 

Enjoy and stay safe! 

x x x

MAYBELLINE FIT ME FOUNDATION - REVIEW

Finding the right foundation is the same as finding the perfect pair of jeans. It's a case of trial and error. You need to try different shades and brands, and the last one you try on will probably be the one. 

I have tried out many foundations in the last couple of years, but I'm still looking for my perfect match.

 The last one I bought is the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation and I have a review for you right here!

How Maybelline describes the Fit Me! foundations: "It's makeup that fits you. No oils, no waxes, no nonsense. Natural, light to medium coverage that leaves skin the way it was meant to be. Fresh, breathing, flawless. Exclusive transluscent base and lightweight pigments allow skin's natural highs and lows to show through. New shades formulated specifically for women of color contain revolutionary 5-D pigment technology to balance your skin's authentic tones and highlights."

There are 18 different shades, they also contain SPF 18.

The foundation is pretty liquid and easy to blend. 

I'm wearing Classic Ivory 120.

 I used a flat foundation brush to blend and I needed one pump to cover my whole face. 

What I like about the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation:

It's soft and natural. The product doesn't feel like a mask while wearing it. It leaves your skin very dewy and natural looking. 

The smell. Weird mentioning this for a foundation, but I really like how it smells, and since it does go over you whole face this is definitely a plus! 

Easy for built up. If you have problem skin with some acne/ blemishes or feel like the foundation is too transparent, you can easily add a second layer on your problem areas. 

What I don't like about the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation: 

It doesn't stick the entire day. I wore this foundation for a day of shopping and noticed after 6 hours the product was starting to disappear. It goes off on clothes easy, so I won't be wearing this foundation for a shopping day again. I also wouldn't recommend wearing the foundation when going clubbing or out in hot weather, since sweat your coverage will disappear quickly.   

Would I buy the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation again? 

If I see this product in the store again, I probably wouldn't pick it up again. It becomes too slippery 'n slide after some hours. I do love the natural finish and the transparency, but it's not enough for a repurchase. 

You can find this foundation in stores for € 13,99. 

If you have any recommendations for foundations please leave me a comment! :) 

x x x

GARNIER NUTRISSE CREME CHESTNUT - REVIEW

A couple of weeks ago I wanted to freshen up my hair color to match my new Bellami hair extensions better. Since I ordered the chestnut brown ones, I needed to add some warmth to my current hair color. I found the Garnier Nutrisse Creme hair dyes in the drugstore and picked out two shades.

I planned on only using the light chestnut brown (n°54) dye, but if it would turn out too light I would use the cold chestnut brown (n°4.15) to add some lowlights. 

As you can see on the box, n°53 is a very warm color with red and orange tones. 

I took some strands of my hair and wrapped them in foil, so they wouldn't get dyed and would serve as highlights. I followed the instruction and let the dye sit for about 30 minutes. (I always start counting when I'm completely finished applying the product.) 

Before

After

This is how my hair looked like right after I dyed it. I just let it air dry, I didn't do any styling to it, so it does look a bit dry and messy. 

This is how my hair looks like now, two weeks after I dyed it. 

As you can see, it turned out a warm medium brown color.

What I like about the Garnier Nutrisse Creme Chestnut:

The smell of the dye and the conditioner. Amazing sweet and fruity scents that stayed in my hair up to two days after. 

The shine and softness. It really did feel like my hair had been nurtured. Of course dyeing your hair is never healthy, but it didn't feel as damaging as other box hair dyes I have used. 

The color is long lasting. After two weeks the dye has lightened a little bit, but overall the color is still holding up pretty well.

What I don't like about the Garnier Nutrisse Creme Chestnut: 

The color came out too dark and not warm enough. The picture on the box shows a reddish warm color, this is why I bought this shade. Unfortunately I couldn't find enough warmth in my after color. I also thought the color would turn out lighter than it did. 

Would I buy the Garnier Nutrisse Creme Chestnut again? 

Yes, I would buy another Garnier Nutrisse Creme hair dye again because I like the quality of the hair dye. It makes your hair feel healthy, smells nice and the color is long lasting. However I wouldn't buy the chestnut shade again. It's a couple of shades too dark on my hair. 

I hope you found this review useful! Good luck if you're trying out a new shade for the new year!

x x x

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM

Hi guys! 

I just wanted to quickly announce that you can follow me now on Instagram. I have joined the social network, finally!, and will share even more of my personal life on there. So be sure to check it out! ;) 

This is the link: http://instagram.com/thebeautiesmoothie

Lots of love and kisses, Kathy

x x x

RIHANNA FOR BALMAIN SPRING 2014 CAMPAIGN

The past couple of years it has become clear Rihanna loves the French fashion brand Balmain. She has been spotted in various outfits both on and off stage. As a longtime fan of their fashion, it was an easy choice for Rihanna when they asked her to be the face, and body, for their Spring collection 2014.  

The shoot for this campaign took place in New York and was shot by two photographers called Inez Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, the Dutch couple is a well known team in the fashion industry. Mel Ottenberg, Rihanna's own stylist, was responsible for the styling of the clothes.

 Balmains' creative director Olivier Rousteing said about the 'Pour it up' singer: "When Rihanna is in front of the camera, she makes you feel like she's the only girl in the world." "I wanted the campaign to be about Balmain, but I didn't just want a model, I wanted a strong real woman in the clothes. For me, Rihanna is a power. And she pushes boundaries on everything." He also added: "Sometimes fashion is all about a big machine. And we forget about emotions, and realness, and dreams. But dreams do come true, and this came from something really simple, and easygoing, and real".

Rihanna shines bright like a diamond in the Balmain collection which includes various girly but edgy outfits. Only good things about this collaboration it seems. Hopefully Rihanna will be lucky enough to be asked again for one of Balmain's campaigns! 

Plunging necklines are nothing new for Rihanna

Rihanna with one of her chameleon hairstyles, a very feminine curly bob

The singer in a leather boiler suit

Besides the gorgeous clothes, Rihanna shows off her tattoos as well

x x x

SIX THINGS TO EAT DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Now that the holidays are right around the corner, the last thing on your mind is a healthy diet. Everyone is looking forward to rich meals filled with carbs and butter and of course the tasty sweet pies and desserts. Well I have some good news for you. There are foods you can indulge on during the holidays without feeling guilty. These ingredients can even increase your digestion and metabolism!

Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes could be the secret to burning fat during the holidays. These type of potatoes are rich in fiber, which will make you feel full and improve your digestion. Sweet potatoes also contain a hormone that balances out your blood sugar. For best results, boil or steam your sweet potatoes.

Dark chocolate
You probably already know caffeine is metabolism-boosting and an be found in coffee, tea and energy drinks. You might not know that an antioxidant called catechin exists. This antioxidant raises your resting metabolism by 4%, which means you will burn an extra 80 calories a day! Dark chocolate contains both caffeine and catechins, which makes it the ideal bite to end your meal. Do stick to a small portion of one ounce per day, otherwise the fat and calories will outdo the positive effects.

Cinnamon
This time of the year cinnamon is a very common ingredient. Apples/cinnamon or coffee/cinnamon combinations are highly popular during these colder days thanks to the warm and sweet flavors. Cinnamon slows down the digestion and balances the blood sugar, which will lead to boosting the metabolism. I always start my day with some cinnamon in my coffee, it's the perfect combo for a boosted metabolism!

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C that help burn fat. The satisfying flavor of tomatoes also helps to turn off hunger and promote feeling of satiation so you will eat less calories. If you haven't decided on your Christmas menu yet, it's time to add some tomato soup and sauce.

Edamame
If you're planning on a sushi Christmas dinner, don't forget to order some edamame. Edamame are baby soy beans and are a cholesterol-free source of protein which increase the metabolism. The soy beans also contain a compound called genistein that helps to shrink fat cells.

Turkey
Lean protein in poultry like chicken and turkey are ideal during the holidays. Turkey meat will make you feel satisfied and require extra energy during digestion. This will boost your metabolism! To avoid extra calories, opt for a piece without the skin or sauce.

Keep these ingredients in mind during and after the holidays. And don't feel too guilty when you do bake your sweet potatoes or do add gravy to your turkey, it's Christmas only once a year, you have the next 364 days to make up for your indulgence!

x x x

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM

Christmas shopping can get very chaotic and stressful. Thousands of people shopping last minute for christmas presents isn't exactly considered as the ideal shopping trip... A big tip: online shopping! I find shopping online a true blessing during the holidays, it's super quick and easy and can save you a lot of worries and waiting queues. If you are more brave than me and do go out to the shops, knowing beforehand what you need and where to get it can be a great help! Since shopping for boys is always a bit more difficult, I've created a Christmas Gift List For Him to help you out! Items are available online and in shops.

1. Stash T-shirt - Jack and Jones: ASOS - €16,99. This shirt is neutral, yet funny. A great gift for a brother or friend! A piece of clothing is always a nice gift. Just make sure you know his size and taste.
http://www.asos.com/Jack-Jones/Jack-Jones-T-Shirt-With-Nice-Stash-Print/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3296408&WT.ac=rec_viewed

2. On Ear Headphones - House of Marley - €177. These headphones are so on trend and cool! They are a bit pricey, but House of Marley offers cheaper ones as well!
http://www.techonthego.co.uk/2013/01/house-of-marley-unveil-new-2013-headphones-12107

3. Blue Jeans iPhone Case Faux Denim Wood: Etsy.com - €15,68. One can never have too many iPhone cases, it's just fun to change it up.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/117454786/blue-jeans-iphone-case-faux-denim-wood

4. Whey Protein Powder Chocolate - Gold Standard - €24,90. This one is for all the gymrats out there. My boyfriend is definitely categorized amongst them and likes to mix protein shakes in his diet. Gold Standard is a well known brand and you can't go wrong with it. My man's favorite taste is chocolate and I find it the most yummy as well!
http://www.bodyenfitshop.nl/eiwittenwhey/whey-proteine/optimum-nutrition/gold-standard-100-whey-protein/

5. Moisturizer for men - Dove - €10,68. They probably won't admit it, but men like to moisturize as much as we do. Haven't noticed your moisturizer disappearing since getting a boyfriend? 2014 is the time to get him his own bottle!

6. Tomorrowland 2013 The Arising of Life CD - €21,99. I picked out this CD for my boyfriend since he likes clubbing music, but you can get him any other CD of course!
http://www.bol.com/nl/p/tomorrowland-2013-the-arising-of-life/9200000014645672/

7. King Apparel Flannel 5 Cap: ASOS - €43,84. A cap or beanie is a great gift for Christmas. The weather is at its coldest, so thinking of his frosty ears will be highly appreciated!
http://www.asos.com/King-Apparel/King-Apparel-Flannel-5-Panel-Cap/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2978008&cid=6517&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=204&sort=-1&clr=Grey+flannel

8. Grey Goose - 70cl/ €34,95, Jack Daniels - 70cl/ €15,25. This one is for 18+ or 21+ (depending on where you live) only. During the holidays alcohol is more consumed thanks to many dinners and parties. A bottle of Grey Goose, Jack Daniels, Bacardi,... will be a nice addition to any pre-or afterparty.

9. Dsquared He Wood Perfume - 50ml/ €53,10. Who doesn't like a nice smelling man, right? Ok, ok androstenol is the scent produced by fresh male sweat and attracts women, but that doesn't mean women don't appreciate a clean perfume smell from times to time (or rather most of the time)! The He Wood Dsquared perfume is currently my favorite and I strongly recommend to try it out on your boy!

What do you think of these gifts? And do you have any other ideas? I'm really excited to hand out my presents already! Only 11 days left, woohoo! 

x x x

RIMMEL LASH ACCELERATOR MASCARA - REVIEW

I bought the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara a month ago, so the time has come to write a review about it! I haven't used mascaras of Rimmel before, so I was pretty curious about the quality of this one. So what does this product promise? Rimmel says: "Our first mascara and lash treatment in one that works both instantly, and overtime with Grow Lash Compex. Instantly up to 80% visibly longer looking lashes. Up to 117% visibly longer looking lashes after 30 days of use." 

Basically it says the more and longer you use the mascara, the more your lashes will grow. Very promising, right? What girl doesn't like long natural lashes? 

The packaging is very simple. A pretty straight and thin mascara in bright lime and black. The colors of the mascara actually caught my eye in the drugstore and made me reach for this product. I think it looks simple but fun.

The brush is thin and long. I like these kinds of brushes, they make it easy to get to the roots of your lashes or the bottom lashes. 

On the left me without makeup, on the right me with the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara. 

What I like about the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara: 

The brush, thin and long brush that makes it easy to reach all top and bottom lashes.

The price, only €12,99. Not much for a mascara.

What I don't like about the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara: 

My lashes haven't grown any longer after using the mascara for a month. So their main selling proposition isn't fulfilled.

Doesn't separate my lashes, it makes them look clumpy and sticky like spider legs.

Doesn't add much volume to my thin lashes. 

Would I buy the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara again? 

No I wouldn't, I have tried out better mascaras than this one. It just doesn't do it for me. I'd rather pay 5 euros more for a mascara that elongates and separates my lashes. 

Hope you found this review useful! 

x x x

EXTRAORDINARY MAKEUP - TAL PELEG

Some people use makeup to enhance their features, some people to cover up things and some use it to experiment and try out different looks. This makeup artist from Israel takes the experimental part to a whole other level and lets the creativity flow like nothing you've seen before. These eye makeup looks aren't made for everyday wear, but can be described as little pieces of art. The artist, Tal Peleg, gets a lot of her inspiration from fairy tales, movies and Disney. I've picked out some of my favorite looks, but she also has her own Facebook page so you can check out all of her amazing work! 

Snow White

Instagram

I love this look! Without the rainbow it would be a wearable but still sexy and smokey look.

Tear

Rainbow

The Princess and The Frog

How cool that the eyebrow is her hair, so creative!

The Moomins

I loved the Moomins when I was little!

Kick-ass inspired

Envy

As you can see Tal Peleg is one talented lady and was born to do makeup! I hope she keeps making fun looks that are so inspiring, I'm definitely keeping my eyes on her.

To check out more of her work - https://www.facebook.com/TalPelegMakeUp

x x x

CHRISTMAS TAG

Hi everybody, today I'm doing the Christmas Tag. Lately I've been getting into the Christmas spirit thanks to Christmas decorations and music, so I picked out the most fun Christmas related questions and answered them below! 

1. What's your favorite Holiday movie?
  Home Alone I &II for sure! When I was little these movies were always on tv on Christmas Eve. We (my parents, my sister and I) would watch them while eating snacks and opening presents around the Christmas tree. It's a tradition I would like to hold on to until I have kids myself, so I can do it with them! 

2. What's your favorite Christmas color?

Gold.

3. Do you like to stay in your pj's or dress up for Christmas? 

Christmas Eve - sweats. Christmas Day - dressed up. 

4. Do you open your presents Christmas eve or Christmas morning? 

I open my presents on Christmas Eve. 

5. Have you ever built a ginger bread house? 

No I haven't. However I do make a layered cookie cake with butter/coffee filling. It's very rich and heavy, but so perfect to end a Christmas meal! It kind of looks like this...

6. Any Christmas wishes? 

I wish everyone close to me has an amazing Christmas and I hope everybody gets to be around family or friends and lots of yummy food!

7. Favorite Christmas meal or treat?

Leonidas chocolates. Especially the white ones with the nut on top. Hmmm...

8. What is the weirdest gift you ever received? 

Probably socks. It doesn't get much weirder than that. 

9. Favorite Christmas smell? 

Turkey in the oven on Christmas morning and Christmas trees. 

10. What are you doing for the Holidays this year?
I will be spending Christmas with my boyfriend and my family. The following weekend I will have a girls' weekend, doing some shopping and partying! Finally New Year's Eve I will be spending with friends, we're going out to eat and after we'll be going to a party one of my friends is throwing! 

11. What's your favorite Holiday drink? 

I always drink Glühwein (or Mulled Wine) at Christmas markets. It's such a sweet and good drink that gives you a warm feeling while being out in the cold. Besides that I also love to drink Baileys after a warm meal, instead of eating dessert. 

12. What's your favorite Christmas song? 

I am currently loving the Jingle Bell Rock song of Bobby Helms. I just can't get it out of my head! 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itcMLwMEeMQ

13. Have you ever made a snowman? 

Yes, many when I was little! When it snows this year I definitely want to make one again.

14. What is your favorite Winter fragrance? 

I got the Diamonds fragrance from Armani for my birthday and am wearing it non stop. It's a very feminine and sexy scent, perfect during the Holidays! 

15. What is most important to you about the Holidays? 

To spend time with family and friends, to eat lots of cheat foods and finally to reminisce on the past year. 

x x x

BRITISH FASHION AWARDS 2013 - FAVORITE LOOKS

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley 

Former Victoria's Secret Angel never fails to amaze. This time she wows the crowd with her amazing figure in a red pantsuit of Antonio Berardi. 

Alexa Chung

Fashionista and model Alexa Chung looks very girly and cute in a white strapless minidress. 

Poppy Delevingne 

Poppy shows off her musical side in this piano dress from Emilia Wickstead. 

Suki Waterhouse

Miss Bradley Cooper looks very romantic in a pastel dress with cutout details in the back and a plunging neckline in the front. 

Amber Le Bon

The English fashion model looks sexy but sophisticated at the British Fashion Awards. The black nails and black clutch finish off the overall simplistic look. However, I'm not that fond of her ombre hair. i think she looks so much better as a brunette!

Rita Ora

Either Rita Ora looks casual in daring goofy outfits, or either super sexy hot. This evening she obviously chose to go sexy with a glammed up look wearing a strapless sequin dress (Vivienne Westwood) and a bold red lip. 

Edie Campbell

Edie Campbell was named Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards 2013 but didn't chose to dress the part. She stood out in an all black ensemble that showed off her rebellious side, a true fashionista that isn't afraid for the public's opinion! 

x x x