October beauty favourites.

Hi guys, I know this ones a bit late, being in November already. However I really wanted to share my October favourites with you. 

First being ..

Clark's Botanicals Anti-Puff Eye Cream, £70 from Space NK

This eye cream is everything I have been looking for! Brightens and De-puffs in a few applications. Bit on the pricey side but you do get a lot of product and only need a pea size between both eyes.

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder £19.50

Second favourite was a product I really did not get along with when I first purchased it, however I have found that mixing it with MACs Mineralise foundation/loose really does the trick and now I LOVE IT :)

MAC Tendertalk Lip Balm £15.50

My everyday lip balm that's always in my handbag no matter what!

It conditions and creates a custom tint based on your own body chemistry. Sounds weird but is my all time favourite lip balm ever. It comes in 5 different colours, so you're bound to find one for yourself. Thank me later ;)

Lastly...

TIGI Bed Head Ego Boost Leave-in Conditioner £10.45 

 @ www. Lookfantastic.com

This stuff smells so yummy !!! So If you know me I've recently been transitioning from black/dark brown hair to blonde, this stuff has really helped with my dead ends. Just two pumps onto freshly washed hair does the trick, not heavy like previous leave-in conditioners I have tried in the past.

Hope you guys enjoyed this quick blog post. Will be posting more so keep an eye out !!

Much Love

Monica xo

NEW MAC HIGHLIGHTERS !!!

     MAC EXTRA DIMENSION HIGHLIGHTERS.

A SNEAK PEAK GUYS, FEEL SPECIAL LOL.

Ok so not the best pictures of swatches but honestly these highlighters are to die for !!

Compared to Soft & Gentle these highlighters are much more finer in texture, they glide on like a dream and honestly a little goes a long way so it'll last a life time. 

They come in 4 different shades:

Show Gold, a peach pearl that reflects pink

Double Gleam, a beige pearl that reflects silver

Beaming Blush, a pink pearl which reflects gold (MY FAV)

Soft Frotst, a white pearl which reflects lilac

And they're only £24 !!!

Thank me later guys and dolls.

Much Love

Monica xo

MAC everyday favs.

Hi guys !

I recently uploaded this picture on my beauty Instagram page (@Beautyby_MLS) and everyone wanted to know what was what. So I decided to do a post, write how I use the products and my tip and tricks !

So starting with the Fix+ spray and going clockwise, enjoy.

Prep & Prime Fix+ Spray: I lightly mist my face before and after my makeup application, also throughout the day to hydrate and refresh. Love how it gets rid of the powder finish.

Skin Mineralize in Soft & Gentle: I use this with either a Real Techniques Fan Brush or a Mac 224, lightly buffing into my highest points of my face e.g. cheekbones,bridge and tip of my nose. Also use to highlight inner corners of my eyes.

Prep & Prime Highlighter Pen in Medium Plus: Use this underneath my eyes after my foundation but before my concealer, using a beauty blender in a dabbing motion.

Face and Body Foundation: I apply two layers as it is very sheer, always allow the first lawyer to sink in before applying second. Using a beauty blender.

Blush in Dessert Rose: One of my favourite blushers of all time ! Love applying this to my cheeks after I have applied my bronzer and highlight. Using MAC 168 brush.

Patent Polish Lip Pencil in Make Me Proud: Love this quick and easy lip gloss on top of any nude lipstick. It being a twist up product makes it easy for being on the go.

Lip Liner in Spice: My favourite liner of all time, goes well with pretty much every nude ever!

Lipstick in Spirit: My everyday lip colour, satin finish so it's not as dry as a matte lipstick however has equal amount of colour pay off. 

Bronzing Powder in Matte Bronze: I love using this to bronze up my face after setting powder. I use a MAC 168 brush along the sides of my face in the shape of a number 3, from my temples to my cheeks and down to the jawline.

Pro Longwear Waterproof Brow Set in Brown Ebony: Basically a brow mascara, use once I've finished filling in my brows to set them, also good if you use powder products on brows as if takes away that chalky effect the powder leaves.

Studio Chromagraphic Pencil Crayon in NC15/NW20: Love love love this as it is a multi-use product. Use around the brows and lips to correct and highlight and also in the waterline of the eyes.

Mineralize Concealer in NC20: Love how hydrating it is and highlighted finish it leaves under the eyes.

Mineralise Skin Finish in Light Plus and Medium Golden: Light plus to set my concealer, leaves such a nice highlighted look. Medium golden to set the rest of my face, doesn't leave it cakey and gives an extra smooth finish before applying my bronzer and blush.

Woaah sorry if you've ended up a bit overwhelmed haha !

Much Love

Monica xo

TWO KIDS,ONLY 23?

Okay so if you follow me on Instagram (@monicaleahxo) or if you know me in real life, you'll know that I've recently given birth to another perfect baby boy. A few of you have been so negative and judgemental. Which fair enough its your opinions but please keep it to yourself, thanks lol.

So my first born Elijah is 1year&7months, Gabriel is 2months.. small gap in-between I know however I wouldn't have it any other way.It wasn't planned and yes at times I do question and doubt myself as a parent,but all of that disappears when I see my two boys bonding.One time Elijah saw Gabriel crying so he gave him his blanket and tried to give his bottle too. Sweetest moment ever !

I found it so overwhelming at first and still do at times. But honestly, it sounds so cheesy but they're the best thing ever to have happened to me.

To all the Mothers out there, You're doing amazing !

Much Love,
Monica xo

I'M BACK !

I'm back guys !!

OMG.. Where has time gone? 

I'm truly sorry for neglecting you guys but things have happened, however I AM BACK!

So whats happened? 

Firstly my precious Grandma was gifted her wings and is now in a better place.

Secondly I've got a new job and third I've been blessed with another baby boy :)

But I am back for good with loads of new ideas and content to come !!

Stay tuned,

Lots of love,

Monica xo

UPDATED TOP 7 FOUNDATIONS.

Hey guys, I know I've been MIA but here's a quick one.
Just an update on my fav foundations.

Some have changed from my pervious post "TOP 5 FOUNDATIONS".

1| YSL FUSION INK | £31.50

2| ESTEE LAUDER | £30

3| LOREAL TRUE MATCH | £10

4| GIORGIO ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK | £36.50

5| YSL TOUCHE ECLAT | £31.50

6| NARS SHEER GLOW | £31

7| MAC STUDIO FIX | £22

Guys if you want to recommend me anything please leave a comment.

Or if you would like to see some reviews.

Thanks for reading

Much Love

Monica Leah xo

STAY MAKEUP STAY.

You've finished doing your everyday makeup and continued with your day. however the Suns out and it's super humid. You're sweating around your face and start to worry about your amazing contouring and eyeliner. Need help?

So Summer has finally arrived in UK and I've noticed a few girls with patchy makeup due to sweat and the heat. I myself have experience this and trust me it's not pleasant.

Here's a few of my tips and tricks to help your makeup stay!

1 | Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion | £7-£8 | Boots

2 | Clarins HyrdaQuench Cream SPS15 | £35

3 | Smashbox Photo Ready Primer | £28

4 | Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray | £21

5 | St Ives Apricot Scrub | £4.50 | Boots

1 | EXFOLIATE !
I can't not stress enough how important it is to exfoliate.

Without exfoliating : All the dead skin cells lay on top on your skin, ewww !
                                  Face looks dull in colour
                                  Dry areas are more visible
                                  Moisturisers won't sink in
                                  Foundations won't sit properly

When you exfoliate : Skin looks much brighter and healthier.
                                  Skin is a lot smoother and softer.
                                  Moisturisers are able to sink in
                                  Makeup goes on a lot smoother
                                  Makeup stays a lot longer
                               
2 | MOISTURISE & PRIME !
After cleansing your face you must always moisturise ! My favourite at the moment are Aveeno and Clarins HydraQuench. Once your moisturiser has sunk into your skin use a face primer all over and a eye primer around your eye area, especially under so you have super support for your concealers.

3 | SETTING SPRAYS !
Once all your makeup is done, (try not to put to much, unless you're comfortable with it in the heat) you then set it with a setting spray, and loads of it. I know a lot of people are using hairsprays, this is a straight NO NO !  My all time favourite is Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. Make sure you shake the bottle before every use to combine all the ingredients. Then sprits your face at arms length and let it set/dry.


Hope this helps !

Much Love
Monica Leah xo

BEACH BLACK.

1 | H&M | £12.99

2 | H&M | £14.99

3 | MINTSWIM | $105 

4 | RIVER ISLAND | £30

5 | BOOHOO | £20

6 | ASOS | £129 | EXPENSIVE I KNOW

Just a few of my favourite one piece swim/beach wear, not only in my favourite colour but a colour thats very slimming and will show your tan off amazingly.

Plus great cover for those with stretch marks !

Number 3 is by Draya Michelle for her own brand Mintswim, I'm truly blown away.

Number 6 is a Plus Size from Asos, check the websites for more designs.

Remember girls, keep it classy never trashy.

Much Love

Monica Leah xo

10 QUICK BEAUTY HACKS.

1) DRIED UP MASCARA ?
 Screw the lid/wand on tightly, then run under hot tap water.

2) NO COLOUR PAY OFF?
Apple white eye pencil onto your lids, using your ring finger blend it a tad.Then add your eye shadow, works best with vibrant colours.

3) NO BROW PRODUCTS?
Use eyeliner, gel or pencil. Use gentle strokes and brush out. If you don't have a brush with you, use a cutie to soften them.

4) OLD BUSINESS CARDS OR SPARE PAPER?
Place it on top of your eyelids when applying mascara. Your lids will stay mascara free and your lashes get coated and separated evenly.

5) FOUNDATION TOO DARK?
Add a drop to your moisturiser and BOOM you've created a tinted moisturiser for the Summer or for the times you want a more natural look.

6) NO EYELINER?
Use your mascara ! Grab a small liner brush and take excess mascara off the wand. Apply where needed.

7) SPOTS/PIMPLES?
Fight the temptation to squeeze them, let them dry for a few days, grab a tweezer and gently tweeze it out. Sounds harsh but this way you're not left with any scars or redness.

8) NO EYE MAKEUP REMOVER?
Use oil, any oil but make sure you rinse thoroughly.

9) DRY LIPS?
Grab a teaspoon of sugar and honey, mix together and you've created a lip exfoliator.

10) LIPSTICK
Mix a bit of your favourite powder blush/eyeshadow with some vaseline/lip balm. Now you've created new colour lipstick.

Quick little post of my favourite beauty hacks.
Hope you guys found this helpful :)

Much Love 
Monica Leah xo

GREY

GREY

So I've decided to start a blog series where I search online for my favourite items in a specific colour and let you guys know how I would style them.

Starting of the series with one of my favourite colour,a colour I think suits every skin tone and a colour thats very understated. GREY.

1. £15 | Boohoo | With a statement necklace, scandals, hair up sleek or messy.
2. £20 | Boohoo | Styled with white or black heels, minimal accessories for that sleek look.
3. £12.99 | Newlook | Styled with black ripped jeans and black pumps. Wavy hair.
4. £3.99 | H&M | Styled with white jeans (rolled up at bottom) and converses.
5. £7.99 | H&M | Ankle boots/white trainers and a jean/leather jacket or oversized cardigan.
6. £24.99 | Newlook | White t-shirt,jeans with pumps or heels,clutch bag.
7. £15.99 | Newlook | Styled With an all white/black outfit and red lips.

8. £55 | River Island | White vest/t-shirt, black/blue jeans.

P.S A bold lip will give any of these outfits a pop, hope you enjoyed my first ever fashion post.

Much Love.

Monica Leah xo

MY 50 TOP CHICK FLICKS.

In no specific order, these are 50 of my favourite chick flicks. However Save The Last Dance has to be my number 1 ! What's your fav ?

1. SAVE THE LAST DANCE

2.HONEY

3.10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU

4.MEAN GIRLS

5.THE NOTEBOOK

6.THE VOW

7.STEP UP

8.BRING IT ON

9.A WALK TO REMEMBER

10.ADDICTED

11.ALONG CAME POLLY

12.SHE'S THE MAN

13.JOHN TUCKER MUST DIE

14.MAID IN MANHATTAN

15.MY BESTFRIENDS WEDDING

16.P.S I LOVE YOU

17.THE LUCKY ONE

18.ADORE

19.TWILIGHT

20.FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS

21.THE TIME TRAVELERS WIFE

22.DIRTY DANCING

23.PRINCESS DIARIES

24.MINIS FIRST TIME

25.HITCH

26.GREASE

27.THE PRINCESS'S DIARIES

28.BAGGAGE CLAIM 

29.THE PROPOSAL

30.JUST WRIGHT

31.THE HOLIDAY

32.BOUNTY HUNTER

33.THE OTHER WOMAN

34.SAFE HAVEN

35.GHOST

36.MISS CONGENIALITY 

37.PARENT TRAP

38.DEAR JOHN

39.TITANIC

40.PITCH PERFECT

41.TEMPTATION

42.NO STRINGS ATTACHED

43.THE WEDDING PLANNER

44.THE TOURIST

45.THE LAST SONG

46.PRETTY WOMAN

47.SHE'S ALL THAT

48.IT'S A BOY GIRL THING

49.THE DUFF

50.GOOD LUCK CHUCK.

Much Love
Monica Leah xo

MY NATURAL BIRTH STORY !

When I found out I was expecting the first thing on my mind was "SH*T ! THE BIRTH !".
I feared the birth so much I would cry and asked myself why did I get pregnant lol. It was always on my mind, not how expensive having a baby was or where am I going to bring him up. And there is nothing that scares me most than leaving earth.. apart from giving birth lol.

So here's a little in site of how my labor and birth went.

My plan was to have a water birth, apparently it's the most relaxing method without using any drugs of course. I wanted it to be as natural as possible because I'm a wimp when it comes to needles (hence not wanting epidural).

Saturday November 15th 2014, 
James, his family and myself went to Ikea, we walked around the entire day going back and forth with what we wanted for our bedroom. So anyways finally getting out of Ikea felt like heaven ! I didn't get much sleep that night.

Sunday 16th November, 
James left me around 4am to go Leeds, I was a bit scared not having him with me at such a late stage in my pregnancy. Anyways the rest of the day was mine. So I started rearranging our bedroom and sorted out all of Elijah's clothing. I kept getting this 'period pain" feeling, I thought it was due to me just moving about so much and lifting things. All of a sudden it hit me. Could this be the start of my contractions? But my water hasn't broke yet? Am I having a miscarriage? All these silly things were running through my head. Eventually by 10/11pm James's Mum took me to the hospital, they check me out and told me I was 2cm dilated and to go home and come back in a few hours. So I did. I'd already called James crying, so he drove back to London. I cant imagine how he felt, knowing he could miss the birth ! Once I got home I ran a hot bath and started preparing myself for the biggest day of my life.

Monday 17th November,
The bath helped a lot, kept me calm until James arrived, around 1.30am. I told him I could bare the pain and for him to go sleep. So he did for a bit, until I woke him up crying my eyes out around 4am. We got my hospital bags and attempted to dash to the hospital. At this stage I was in so much pain. My contractions were lasting a minute and 30seconds roughly and came every other 2-3 minutes. So I'd have my contractions then rest and have another. By me resting it took way longer to leave home. By the time we were in the car I was screaming, a scream I only hear on One Born Every Minute, a scream I've never heard come out my mouth before. Anyways we got to the hospital just after 5am. Was told I was 9cm dilated and that it was too late for the water birth and for any medication but gas and air. I felt warm liquid trickle down my legs, I realised it was my waters breaking. From here on I just remember screaming and getting told of by a nurse LOL. Rude ! Then by 6:30am he was born :). Weighing 7pounds 4ounces.

The pushing didn't hurt at all. It was the contractions. So girls if you're expecting just prepare for the heavy period pains/belly cramps ! And guys do what you can, rub her lower back, give her water,cuddles and plenty kisses !

Much Love
Monica Leah xo

WHAT'S IN MY MAKEUP BAG?

Quick little post. Enjoy.

What's in your makeup bag? Is probably the most common question I get.

Well here it is! The bag is from Charlotte Tilbury, £15.

Everything is inexpensive and easy to get your hands on.

If there's any products you guys recommend please let me know :)

Much love

Monica Leah xo

VENICE !

Venice 2015.

So it was my birthday (April 26th), I wasn't feeling to celebrate this year, I hate chasing people and planning things for myself, bit lazy I know. But anyways my boyfriend told me to pack and that I was spending the weekend with him in Manchester. Little did I know he had planned for us to go on a four day trip to Venice ! Of course my heart melted once I found out.It has been a dream of mine since I had learnt about it in primary school. He made it happened and I am extremely thankful and blessed. Here's a few snaps I wanted to share with you guys. Unfortunately we had no adapters for our phones but managed to borrow the hotels the last day :(

 Best thing ever invented. 

Chocolate Kebabs

Much Love,
Monica xo

ALERT ! NEW FAVOURITE EYEBROW PRODUCT !

Quick little post, just something I felt I needed to share with you guys.

So everyone knows how obsessed I am with brows. I've always have been and always will be.
I know I've done my TOP THREE EYEBROW PRODUCTS post however recently I've discovered a new product that not a day goes by that I don't use it.
Drum roll please... Ladies and Gents I present you..

Soap & Glory Archery 2-in-1 Brow Filling Pencil&Brush.

I know another Soap&Glory product, how boring of me LOL. But honestly this product is amazing ! The tip is so fine you create the smoothest lines plus the colour pay off is intense. The brush is super handy to, to create the ombre look at the start of the brows, amazing amazing amazing !

Much Love
Monica xo

HOSPITAL BAG.

When I found out I was expecting I began to read so much online, most blogs or websites missed a few important things or went a bit overboard when preparing yourself. So I narrowed it down to the essentials.

Firstly you need your bag, duh ! Doesn't need to be huge, I packed a days worth, but I advice you to pack another bag of clothes and leave it at home, if it is needed you're family/friends could pick it up for you. 

For you:

Your birth plan,notes and file.
A old baggy shirt, or a old night gown to give birth in.
Two comfy bottoms.  Pyjama bottoms, tracksuits etc.

Two comfy tops. Any casual tops will do. (I always say two, incase of any accidents.)
Nursing Bras.
Breast & Maternity Pads.
Socks and Slippers.
Knickers.
Toiletries.
Going home outfit.
And of course your mobile, to keep you entertained, music and to take photos of baba.
Oh and snacks.

For Baby:

2 Vest
2 Onesies
Hat and Mittens.
Nappies and Wipes.
Muslin square.
Going home outfit.
Jacket/Snowsuit.
Blanket.
Car seat.

I had my hospital bag ready from a month and a bit before my due date, you've always got to be prepared. Oh and in most hospitals a photographer comes so if you might want to bring your eyebrow pencils and some lipgloss ;)

Much Love
Monica xo

EVERYDAY FACE ROUTINE.

So here it is, my secrets to my everyday flawless complexion!

On a daily basis I use drugstore products, they're cheaper and work just as well as high end products.
Here's a step by step guide to what I do, hopefully it's useful and if you do have any tips and tricks, please share by leaving a comment. Enjoy guys.

1. PREP

I haven't found the best moisturiser for my face just yet. but I am loving Bio Oil. Sounds a bit weird I know, but my skin colour on my face is so uneven, plus it's super dry due to the cold weather. So by patting a few drops into my skin with my fingertips works wonders!
Of course let it soak in for at least 20 minutes, in the mean time you could be doing your hair, ironing the shirt you've chosen to wear or simply on instagram/facebook/youtube.

Once it's soaked in and doesn't feel greasy I spritz my face with Urban Decay's B6 Prep Spray. This is a vitamin spray which reduces redness and helps minimise the look of pores. I absolutely love this product and use it everyday even if I'm not wearing makeup.






2. BASE

So on a day to day basis if I do go out I'll apply a BB Cream for moisture and a light coverage. I do wear foundations if I feel like I need more coverage or on occasions. I've gone through many different BB Creams and I've finally found a decent one.Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector in Medium. It is a bit oily so apply in moderation, plus you really don't need much. I apply using Real Techniques Buffing Brush.



I then conceal using Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer, using a lighter shade for my undereye area and any other areas with a shade that matches my skin tone. I apply using my ring finger in a patting motion for maximum
coverage. It's so funny because this was the first ever concealer I bought when I was about 13. And up to now it still is my favourite! By the way I'm turning 22! Amazing amazing amazing.




3. POWDER.

I then set my entire face with a powder. If I don't, my foundation/bb cream will go patchy,especially when I apply bronzer/blusher.
I'm always trying different powders out, from Collection 2000 Translucent Loose Powder, to Maybelline True Match and
Rimmel Stay Matte powder. And honestly they seem to all work fine with my skin. Oh and I apply using the the biggest brush in this set by Real Techniques.




4.HIGHLIGHT, BLUSHER AND BRONZER.

I then add my favourite matte bronzer by Kiko, unfortunately it is limited edition, anyone know any matte bronzer to try out? I do contour if I'm bothered but most days I'm lazy or don't have time.

Then on top of that matte bronzer I use Urban Decay's Flushed Palette. This is amazing because it has a shimmery bronzer, highlight and a beautiful blusher all in one! Also saves me space in my makeup bag LOL.





5.FINISHED ! 

All done! Joke one more step, setting spray.
I used Urban Decay's All Nighter, and this makes such a huge difference I honestly don't know what I would do without it. Ok now I'm done. LOL




I hope this gives you guys a few tips and new products to try out for yourself.
If you do have any recommendations please let me know !

Speak soon

Much LoveMonica xo 

ALL ABOUT SHE.

Watching William Singe on Youtube bought back feelings of how I used to love singing and listening to other vocalist, so I spent hours on Youtube and came across a trio by the name ALL ABOUT SHE. And boy am I happy !

They are super talented and the singer Vanya Taylor has such an angelic hypnotising voice.
I literally just zone out and feel my body moving to the beat and voice on each of their videos.

Here's my favourite cover they done last year.

ENJOY GUYS !!

Much Love
Monica xo

MOTHERS DAY GIFT GUIDE.

So Mothers Day is coming up this Sunday. And I always get stuck on what to gifts to buy.
I came up with a couple ideas and thought to share them with you guys.
Hopefully it helps and gives you guys ideas !

1. A basket full of goodies. THE ULTIMATE GIFT
I always see this gift on all occasion. A basket full of little goodies, so inexpensive and also very  thoughtful as you have to hand pick a few gifts not just one.
What you could fill it in with:  Candles, night wear, wine, chocolates and other edible treats, bath bombs/lotions, new dvds, a coffee mug. I could go on but you get the drift.

2. Beauty box
If you want to be a bit more fancy and you know your Mother well enough, you could create a beauty box. A box filled with makeup, perfume, nail polish, face cleansers and creams and her favourite perfume.
This is a tricky one though because you'd need to know what colours she wears often. But I know this gift will always be a winner, every female loves makeup !

3. Personalised Gifts
If you've given your Mum,Mother of your kids,Grandma or Mother in law everything you can think of, try a personalised gift. A photo album with all your favourite pictures of her with yourself or just her in general, include daily quotes to change it up a bit. A personalised phone case, these are super cute. A personalised coffee mug, just to remind her of you every morning ! CHEEKY ! Or a keyring.

My favourite personalised gift is BOOMF. Marshmallows with your pictures or quotes on them ! How cool is that, order by 12 noon on Thursday 12th of March to receive yours by Mothers Day.

4. Jewellery
Every woman loves jewellery, as long as it's real LOL. From rings to necklaces and bracelets it's all up to you !

Remember it's not always about how much you spend, you could simply give your Mum a card, flowers, breakfast in bed and a day off from all the housework, I think she'd appreciate that more than anything !

I hope you all enjoy Mothers Day,
And Happy Mothers Day in advance to all you amazing Mothers out there !
It's a tough job but the most rewarded, You are truly amazing and keep it up !


Much Love
Monica xo

WILLIAM SINGE.

Honestly I just look past all these singing videos on Facebook, but for some reason this one video kept coming on my homepage. So I decided to watch it and boy am I glad I did !

They talented guy singing in the video is William Singe. Known for being on the fourth season of The Xfactor Australia when he was just 19 ! He auditioned as a soloist but was then put into a four piece band called The Collective, however on 18th February 2015 he announced on Facebook he was leaving the band to pursue a solo career.

I really hope he blows up and wish him all the best !

Here's a link for his Youtube page, please subscribe like and comment.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmgraatPo7ScrvCuQxNTG7g