It’s what Marilyn Monroe sang in that breathy girlish voice whilst swathed in crimson taffeta for the 1949 film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”. I’m sure gentlemen don’t (prefer blondes that is) but I’d bet my collection of statement lobe-candy on the fact the vast majority of ladies fall into the same camp as Madam Monroe i.e there’s nothing quite like a diamond to make your heart skip a beat and feel a million dollars.

And that is exactly what W-day accessory designer Hermione Harbutt thinks, not only is she introducing a completely new-to-the-industry concept known as “The Diamond Service”, she is also giving away a pair of 18K gold 2mm diamond earrings worth £350 to one lucky RMW reader in return for some feedback on her latest venture.

I know.

How generous is she?

Hermione will be launching exclusively at The Designer Wedding Show on Friday and if you are paying a visit you should definitely go take a peek at stand 56, there is much pretty to admire people.

You can win these diamond earrings worth £350!!

Hermione Harbutt: As a bridal accessories designer I consider myself very lucky to work with brides and I find it such an enjoyable experience. I am passionate about creating beautiful bespoke accessories tailored to suit the personality, style and budget of each of my lovely brides, providing them with unique pieces that will be treasured as heirlooms of the future. For those brides seeking the pinnacle of luxury for their wedding day, I am delighted to announce the launch of The Diamond Service, offering exquisite headdresses handcrafted from pure 18K gold and high quality set diamonds. Following the wedding day, the diamonds will be converted into stunning jewellery of the bride’s choice to wear throughout her married life, and the headdress treasured as a family heirloom. To celebrate the launch at The Designer Wedding Show, two divine showcase pieces have been created. The first headdress presents five diamonds; three stunning half carat diamonds and two 2mm diamonds set into pearl flowers and surrounded by pearl tendrils sweeping from the crown of the head, around the side of the hair to the back in a truly elegant design. The second headdress has detail on both sides of the head and incorporates four 2mm diamonds set into pearl flowers and surrounded by delicate branches of pearls and moonstone.

Two of Hermione Harbutt’s Exquisite Diamond Service Designs

How fancy is that? a beautiful headpiece for W-day and then some delectable jewels you can wear every day FOREVER….. I die. And for anyone that’s wondering, the diamonds that are made into your very own stylish baubles are replaced with Swarovski crystals so your headdress will always appear perfectly glitzy.

The Hermione Harbutt Diamond Service starts from £2000, Hermione will be show-casing several design options at the Designer Wedding Show from Friday the 10th February.

To be in with a chance to win a pair of these delicious diamond earrings we would like you to do the following:

Pay a visit to Hermione’s website, check out her selection of headpieces and tell us in the comments box if you had the opportunity, which one would be your favourite choice to have a selection of real diamonds set in….?

We would also like you to tell us why diamonds are in fact a girls best friend.

Can’t wait to see your responses lovelies.

Big Shiny Rock Love

Charlotte xxx

P.S Did I say you could win some actual diamond earrings?!

Now, as much as I love a dose of classic elegance as per yesterdays dreamy Hydrangea-inspired affair, I can’t help but get swept away by anything ultra bohemian and a bit wild, especially in a floral sense. And especially when every last image is as dreamy and as magical as the first.

As with any inspiration shoot we feature – that’s exactly what it is, inspiration, take as much or as little from it as you please. Personally I am loving the paper chains (cheap, effective and a million options for matching in W-day colour schemes and themes) and the incorporation of slightly unusual blooms.

And don’t even get me started on the lashes. No I don’t expect anyone to walk down the aisle with a full set of Chrysanthemum-petal falsies (although you could if you wanted to…) but my, don’t they look pretty.

Oh and of course there are the layers and layers of ice-cream petticoats…. who wouldn’t want to float around in one of those all day?

All of the beautiful photography is courtesy of Eliza Claire.

Eliza Claire: The looks were designed by make up artist Carolanne Armstrong to inspire the use of flowers for something other than the traditional bouquets. We wanted to use flowers that may not be hugely in demand and create something stylish and unusual with a fantastical edge. Styling and wardrobe choices by Amy Plank of Miss Bush Bridal wear, floral design by Bloomingayles and hair by Christina Jessel. Our venue was the beautiful Fetcham Park in Surrey.

Gayle, Amy and Carolanne worked together to produce some looks which are a little out of the ordinary but still achievable. We referred to our first look as a flowery Kate Bush, an eccentric lady of the house floating around her manor being generally decadent.

The main feature of this look are the real Haydar Chrysanthemum petals around the eyes with additional bold spidery lashes, which came to resemble those nestled in the mini bouquet placed in her wild hair. This was made with papery butterflies, Minerva carnations and the same Chrysanthemums with accompanying wrist corsage.

We love the idea of this haphazardly thrown together outfit: Arran knit jumper tucked into a gorgeous silvery grey petticoat from Doris Designs, cream lacy tights, grey leg warmers and patent wedges. I was keen was keen to shoot in natural light, as the time of year that we did the shoot (early winter) gave the most beautiful soft, low light that lends itself perfectly to the fantastical, slightly magical, other-worldly edge.

Our model Jade has the most wonderful adaptable face, capable of looking baby faced, dreamy and positively feline, and here she’s a little bit flower fairy, a little bit geisha girl….

Jade’s bridal look, wearing ‘Adelfa’ by Rosa Clara at Miss Bush, features a soft violet eye, top and bottom lashes and pink stained lips. Her crown of succulents were Crassulas and Echevarias. This look is almost traditionally gothic and romantic with the succulent plants emerging from her casual curls. I shot this just as the sun was going down, and the light added more contrast and drama to the shoot.

Jade’s third look sees three Doris petticoats layered together, soft grey knit sweater, a handmade pom pom on her shoulder (by Amy), Rachel Simpson shoes and a beautiful head piece by Bloomingayles featuring some Dennis Boden foliage and luscious peach Avalanche roses. These images were shot after dark, using on-and-off-camera lighting to maintain a fresh look, but also highlight the beautiful floral arrangements and the movement of the petticoats.

Photography: Eliza Claire

Make up and design: Carolanne Armstrong

Styling & Wardrobe: Miss Bush Bridal

Floral Design: Bloomingayles

Hair: Christina Jessel

Venue: Fetcham Park

Model: Jade Puttock

Shoes: Rachel Simpson @ Miss Bush Bridal

Petticoats: Doris Designs

Additional clothing shoes and accessories: Stylists own

So then I don’t know about you guys but this afternoon I fancy sitting around in many layers of peach tulle with my face made up a la Carolanne Armstrong (i.e. – HOT) whilst embarking on a spot of knitting.

Anyone else the proud owner of some flashy lashes? and if you are where do you wear them? I’d wear me some Chrysanthemums given half the chance but just not sure of an appropriate event…

Big Wild Love

Charlotte xxx

P.S Today is a three post day…. how exciting.

Dresses that dreams are made of – that’s what I thought about the 2011 Temperley Bridal collection…

And then I saw the 2012 “Ophelia” range. I swear, for the first ten minutes I couldn’t say a word (and that’s a long time for me – I can talk a lot). The gowns are breathtaking, and I don’t tend to throw that adjective around unless well… something literally takes my breath away.

Adam and I were invited to Temperley HQ yesterday, a beautiful mews in Notting Hill that is home to all of Alice Temperley’s delicious designs including the aforementioned bridal ready-to-wear and bespoke pieces. Think intricate detail, elongated body skimming silhouettes and voluminous tulle appliqué skirts. Think exquisitely draped silks, fine French laces and timeless, feminine, ethereal pretty…

Think…I die.

Having only previously been available from the London, Los Angeles and Dubai Boutiques Ophelia is going wholesale world-wide – meaning it will become a whole lot more convenient for you lovelies to enjoy the Temperley experience should one of the oh-so-elegant frocks take your fancy.

‘I really enjoyed creating this collection; there is something for every Temperley woman – from the original bare footed Bohemian to our New York City Hall contemporary bride to our romantic full skirted princess and our Art Deco vintage nostalgic – Our brides always wear the dress rather than being worn by it, and they can dance all night, look beautiful and also feel themselves which is something that should never be forgotten on their wedding day. ’ Alice Temperley, MBE

The Temperley Bridal line evolved after Alice’s own wedding in 2002 to Lars von Bennigsen when after designing her own W-day gown she received many requests from friends to create their big day dresses. Alice’s gown was very similar to the Honeysuckle design that remains a permanent fixture of the classic line along with one of my if-I-did-it-again-I-would-be-very-tempted numbers – the ever lovely layered Dragon dress.

And along with the Dragon there are a fair few frocks from this collection I will be adding to that “if” list, prepare yourselves for a serious Saturday swoon-fest folks…

From top: The Arianna and the Vida.

From Top: The Chloe and the Draped Scarlett.

From Top: The Dove and the Augustina.

From Top: The Crystal Imara and the Camille.

From Top: The Emmeline and the Kelly.

From Top: The Mirage and the Amoret.

From Top: The Aurelea and the Penelope.

Ophelia 2012 also introduces accessories, including decadent head pieces, embellished sashes for the waist and wrists and an expansion of shrug and veil categories. And when I say veil I mean VEIL – if you wear one of these you won’t want to take it off all day. Promise.

We were lucky enough to be given some very generous goody bags by Temperley with posh teas, gorgeous candles and whatnot inside and as I also managed to pinch Adam’s when he wasn’t looking we’re generous and all we’d like to give one away, just tell us which is your favourite gown from the collection by dropping us a comment. If it’s the same as mine then we’ll send a very fancy bag with Mr Posty your way (and if there is more than one that guesses right I’ll get out the RMW polka dot hat and we’ll do a wee draw).

Warning: The candle smells so insanely awesome you may be tempted to eat it.

You can see some Temperley RMW real wedding pretty here and here …

Big If You Ever Buy One Of These I Will Be As Jealous As Hell Love

Charlotte xxx

Well there have been a fair few things that have dropped into my inbox this week so I thought I’d share ‘em, apologies in advance for any desire you may have to batter the plastic as a result.

It’s As Much About The Styling As The Actual Stuff

At least that’s what I think when I see a new fashion campaign, particularly bridal. You can’t buy every dress on the planet but now and even when I was planning, I always take inspiration from the styling of the new collections too – the hair, the make-up , the accessories….

And I am currently loving the BHLDN new spring look book. The new season gowns are (as always) gorgeous but it is the soft up-do doo-dah and glossy pink lips that I am coveting.

The Avant-Garde Gown: Long strings of pearls + delicate floral headband = Dreamy

The Divine Downpour Gown: Shiny bits on your forehead + intricate statement bracelet + feminine petal earrings = Modern Princess

The Lively Chevron Gown: Statement Necklace + peachy bronze sling backs = Contemporary Chic

And yes BHLDN deliver to the UK and ALL of the accessories can be purchased via the website.

Here are some of my must-have jewellery items (no I can’t afford to buy them all but I would very much like too…)

Clockwise from top left:

The Mellifluous necklace – Just imagine those lovely long swingy bits all the way down your back… *sigh*

The XO Earrings – How ruddy cute are they?! A gorgeous (and generous) gift for your maids.

The Carolinigan Necklace – Actual crocheted lattice sprinkled with pearls. I’m not sure I have ever seen such a perfect piece in my whole entire life.

The Bachelor’s Button Earrings – Your something blue? I so would.

Continuum Cuffs: What are these?! some kind of look-at-me bracelets? an extra bit of sleeve?! I don’t know and I don’t really care, they’re ace and I want someone somewhere to rock a pair for W-day please.

Movers And Shakers In Make-up

I have a confession to make. I have been neglecting MAC of late… I know, as an avid follower/purchaser/lover for over fifteen years and I haven’t bought or even looked at a single thing for months…. I feel like some kind of traitor.

However, I’m definitely having me a butchers at the new Daphne Guinness collaboration (how awesome does she look?!) and have already heard rave reviews about the Blueblood and Endless Night nail polishes.

And if you are looking for a beauty treat but don’t want to break the bank then you need to check out the Lisa Eldridge for Boots No 7 Spring collection, not only is it all on 3 for 2 at the moment but you can also use your £5 off voucher thingy (I checked and they are valid until March..) AND the packaging is super cute.

My favourites from the range are the cream blush in Blooming Pink (I swear, one swipe and you look all healthy and glowy) and the Vital Enlightening Highlighter Powder which is actually prettier and more flattering than a couple of my high-end versions.

Cut Price Karl Lagerfield

Karl Lagerfeld’s new “Karl” collection was released on Net A Porter on Wednesday and I’ve got to admit I like it. A lot. And I have always been a little bit intrigued by this white ponytail sporting/shade wearing phenomenon.

I wouldn’t go as far as to say the range is cheap (far from it actually) but there are a few pieces that are more affordable and could jazz up your existing wardrobe.

I REALLY want a pair of the fingerless leather gloves but apparently they sold out within minutes. Boo.

And just generally I like the whole glamorous whilst edgy biker edge to the collection, all leather, zips and sequins.

I’m still not sure I am cool (or rich) enough to wear any of it though.

So then lovelies, let me know what’s new with you – I’m in London today and there may just be time for a wee trip to Oxford Street….

Big Shop ‘Til You Drop Love

Charlotte

*Hello Charlotte here *waves*… you may remember some time ago on our Ask the Experts column a piece called Drowning In A Sea Of Dresses – the trials and tribulations of shopping for your gown. Well, the first comment we received on that post was from “Jenny” and how she had really not enjoyed her dress shopping experience thus far. I felt compelled to email her and recommend some of our favourite boutiques as it should be a special time for every bride… and to cut a long story short it turns out Jenny is not only witty and intelligent but as the Sub-Editor of RED magazine (one of my favourite lifestyle glossies) she knows a thing or two about writing great copy.

So if you’ve had a similar experience/have anything you’d like to ask then please do drop a comment at the end of this post, we LOVE to hear what you gorgeous lot have got to say.

Over To Jenny…

Trouble finding The One?

I’m not talking about your perfect partner. After all, if you’re reading this blog, you’ve probably already found and are on your way to marrying the man of your dreams. I’m talking about The Other One. Your wedding dress.

I was imagining champagne in the showroom, trying on dress after dress. I imagined my mum crying and saying how beautiful I looked. What I didn’t imagine, was how hard it would be, as a size 16, to find my dress. In reality, I was confronted with squeezing into size 10 samples, not being able to try on my favourites, and boutique owners telling me, ‘Oh, that definitely won’t work for you’.

The first store I went in to, I was just looking for bridesmaid dresses. The owner told me that I was doing it the wrong way around, that I should have got my dress before I start looking for bridesmaids. Maybe this is the traditional way to do things, but I didn’t see how my choice of dress would affect my vision of BM dresses. Also, aren’t I allowed to do things ?

After much cajoling, she convinced me to try on some of the wedding dresses she stocked. But rather than letting me choose which ones I’d like (I told her I really wanted lace, no diamante or sparkle, and something light, suitable for my wedding in Ibiza), she picked out three for me. Three puffball, heavy, diamante-covered monstrosities. On the right person, I’m sure the dresses would have been lovely, but they just weren’t me. I felt and looked ridiculous – I could see it on my bridesmaids’ faces. (Even worse when she put a tiara on me – I am definitely not a tiara kind of girl). So my first dress-trying-on experience left something to be desired.

I was more excited about my next appointment. The dress shop came under good recommendation, and was decorated gorgeously, so I had high hopes. Again, I explained what I was after, and again, I was forced into three different diamante-detailed dresses that she picked for me. I must admit, they did look better on than I was expecting, but I’ve never met someone so bossy and pushy. I really felt like she was just trying to sell me something, and made me feel really awkward and embarrassed about not being a size 10. When I worked up the courage to point to a dress that I really liked (lace, floaty, empire line), she looked at me and said, ‘Darling, we only stock this in a size 8 for a reason.’ And then proceeded to try on the dress herself to tell me exactly why it wouldn’t suit my curvier figure. (People never believe me when I tell them that story!)

A few more dress disasters followed….A shop where I stood next to another bride in the mirror, while she tried dresses on as well, making me feel so not special. A boutique that wouldn’t even let me try on a few samples because ‘they definitely won’t work for you’, when I know they definitely would have fitted. (Ladies, the lace-up back dress is your friend when it comes to dress shopping).

So it was with exasperation that I commented on my troubles on the RMW article ‘Drowning in a sea of dresses’ about my dilemma. I was really getting worried that I wouldn’t find a dress I loved. I didn’t feel special, didn’t feel beautiful, didn’t feel like a bride.

It was then that Charlotte emailed me and recommended Mamfii Bridal, where coincidentally, one of my recently married friends, Kelly, had bought her dress. I was at my wits end, so thought it would be worth the two-hour drive. It was – and then some.

Samantha Neville, Mamfii’s director, agreed to open on a Sunday for me, and what I found was the most beautiful bridal store, in a gorgeous location, full of amazing (yet still reasonably priced) dresses. Sam completely understood what I wanted, and gave me free reign to pick out the dresses that I liked. She understood that yes, something might not suit me, but until I can try it on and see for myself, I’m never going to believe it. (I fell in love with the full-on lace dress from Justin Alexander’s new collection, but could see as soon as it was on that the material was just too heavy for me.)

I explained my worries about being a size 16 trying on sample 10s and 12s, but it was never an issue. I got into all of the dresses fine (again, with thanks to the lace-up, and some clever ivory panels that Sam tucked into the back, to give a better impression of what the back would look like). Sam is, quite frankly, a genius. An angel. A genius angel!

Needless to say, I finally found The One, and it’s perfect. (I don’t want to reveal what I went for – I wish I could, I’m so excited! – but I’ll let you in on my second choice: Essence D1220).

Overall, I didn’t really enjoy dress shopping (until I found Mamfii). My mum never cried (she said she was holding it in). And I never had champagne in store (until I bought my dress, and Sam cracked open some bubbles for me and my sister). What I learnt is not to have too many expectations; stick to your guns about what you really want from your dress (if you’re not a diamante girl, you’re never going to love a diamante-covered dress, no matter how pushy the boutique owner is); DO NOT WORRY about being a curvy lady, as you will easily fit into sample 10s and 12s if they’re lace up; and, finally, you will find The One, don’t worry about that, either. It’s like meeting your husband-to-be – when you know it’s The One, you just know.

My dress isn’t exactly what I originally envisaged, but pretty close. But more than that, I finally feel like a bride – and for that, I have Mamfii Bridal to thank.

Big ‘I hope you all find your dream dress too’ love,

Jenny Woods

And it fell into my inbox on a particularly grey and gloomy day… sunshine medicine if you will. Photographer Catherine Mead single handedly managed to switch on my inspiration light switch with the moments she captured whilst attending the Jose Villa Workshop in Mexico. And for that I will be eternally grateful.

The Claire Pettibone 2012 collection gowns are out-of-this-world , I want someone, anyone to wear a frock with just the faintest hint of a pale blue and then carry it through to their accessories and decor….just because….and I want someone to wear a veil hood because frankly, it’s the coolest thing I’ve seen since dresses with pockets.

And the bouquets?

Welcome to the new UBER rustic folks. 2011 saw the increasing popularity of hand-tied and hand-picked style and now we’re moving one step onwards – roadside chic. No I am not losing my mind, there is just something incredibly intriguing about a bunch of florals that look like they could have literally been swiped from the bank of a dual carriageway en route to the ceremony.

I want.

And I’m afraid these are not models but actual real couples that offered to participate in the workshop and yes, they really are that beautiful.

I die.

Catherine Mead: Photography is my greatest love, and it’s all I’ve ever been passionate about. After graduating from a degree in Photographic Arts when I was 21, I’ve worked as a photojournalist for the national broadsheets and magazines ever since.

My client list include The Times, The Telegraph, The Guardian, Grazia Magazine and many more publications, and I’ve been sent around the world photographing a variety of assignments ranging from the slums in Kolkata and refugee camps, to London Fashion Week, Bonnie Tyler’s living room and various top celebrities’ plush homes.

I photographed my first wedding a few years ago, and immediately fell in love with wedding photography too. I’ve photographed a wide variety of lovely weddings, from being flown out to photograph a 400-guest wedding in Cairo, to a wedding in The Cotswolds with just the couple, and myself and the venue coordinator as their witnesses.

I’ve been lucky enough to have my clients’ weddings featured in Brides and You & Your Wedding Magazine, and it’s always such an honour and a privilege to be hired by my clients and be invited to share their most important day together. In short, I’m totally in love with my job!

You can see more of Catherine’s work at www.photographybycatherine.co.uk

You want more? Yes? Ok then as you asked so nicely…….

Bouquets With Bracken: This (image below) is what I was referring to for “Roadside Chic”, the warm tones of copper and golden yellow would work well for an Autumnal affair or anything outdoorsy (I’m thinking vows in an enchanted forest, that type of thing…)

Sharp Grooms: I don’t think a slim fit black suit has to be restricted to an “evening dress” theme or indeed the winter months, this looks unbelivably stylish any time any place…especially with a contemporary skinny tie. And is it me or does the man donning said suit bear a remarkable resemblance to Mark Ruffalo…?

Oversized Accessories: I mentioned the hood (seriously – I am contemplating an occasion I can justify wearing one to) but how about the other head wear? I have loved a giant single flower forever (and if you are definitely going avec veil for W-day there is no reason you can’t swap to one of these beauties for the dancing) and now I am worshipping at the floor of the silvery sky-hued version complete with feathery bits….. Any takers?

Hair & Make-up: Mar of Team Hair and Makeup

Flowers: Flower Wild Design

Styling: Jill LaFleur

Bridal Gowns: Claire Pettibone

Hair Accessories: Mignonne

Photography by Catherine Mead *All of the pictures taken during a Jose Villa Workshop*

With huge thanks to Catherine Mead for getting Rock My Weddings glow on.

And I want those that are opting for a Claire Pettibone, a groom in a sharp black suit or indeed a bouquet in the style of roadside chic* to leave a comment and let me know the exact details. Just so I can y’know, get all green eyed and girly.

Big I’m Keeping It Firmly Switched On Love

Charlotte xxx

*copyright Charlotte O’Shea 2012

A fair few Sassi brides have graced these pages and each and every one has said how beautifully cut the gowns are, that they fit them like a glove, that it was definitely their “dream” dress…

Key inspiration for this collection was statement costume jewellery which has been translated into accent detailing, Sassi uses belts, bows and tails enhanced by diamanté appliqué and brooches to ensure every piece has the look-at-me glamour factor.

So if you are in a “I have nothing to wear” conundrum for W-day and you are yet to book your appointment with Madam Holford then you probably should, especially if you love a sleeve, lots of lace and are willing to do a bit of the ol’ sexy back-flash.

The Thea - This is probably my favourite, from the delicate cuff buttons to the low slung rear neckline. Suitable for every season of course but I can envisage this in some kind of sophisticated winter wonderland setting, all candlelight and glow – you know?

The Paola – A sprinkle of Audrey Hepburn and a whisper of Marylin Monroe, or at least that’s what I thought when I first laid eyes on this timeless number. I’m also a little bit obsessed with that headpiece – like a small pearl side-plate of greatness.

The Grace – ooooh this is a wee bit Middleton-esque isn’t it? and all the lovelier for it I say, if it’s good enough for a Princess….

The Zoe – I was never your typical “fairytale” bride but if I was I would probably wear something similar to the Zoe, all tulle and fancy bodice.

The Mia - Simple, elegant, perfect. I’m thinking dramatic drop earrings and some kind of skyscraper sparkly shoe – because with this dress you just could.

More From The Catwalk – Clockwise from top left: The Sienna (love a cap sleeve) the Tallulah, the Catherine and the Florence.

And Even More - Clockwise From Top left: – The Saffron (plenty of swish factor), the Helena, the Bella and the Marianne.

Now we know RMW Real Bride Celine has chosen a Sassi Holford design but how about the rest of you?

And just for banter (and because I’m nosey) which one is your favourite?

Oh and if you want to look at past Sassi Brides (or anything else for that matter) just put whatever it is in the search bar in the top left hand corner of the home page and hey presto, all the posts featuring your chosen words will magically appear!

Big If I Could I Would Love

Charlotte xxx

Just to let you know, I don’t go on about items to invest in on RMW unless I have used them myself (for a good month or so) and the results are impressive, and although I certainly can’t account for all the different skin types out there or make any miracle-in-a-bottle promises, I will only recommend stuff that I think actually works, and is therefore worthy of the O’Shea bathroom cabinet.

Fortunately these last four weeks or so I have discovered some real winners, unfortunately they all fall into the Lady Luxe category in terms of price. Sorry about that folks. Brownie’s honour I will do my best to find you some covetable bargains soon.

And as always I would love to hear if any of you gorgeous lot use any of the lovely listed below or if there are any fairly recent discoveries you would like to share with the RMW community, just drop us a wee note in the comments section. And of course feel free to ask me any questions (I could talk about cosmetics forever…)

Poreless Flawless

The rubbish thing about having de-hydrated skin (apart from making you look five years older) is that the constant build up of dead skin cells makes for congested pores. Yuck. And apart from frequent exfoliation (which often leaves my prone-to-redness mug looking like a giant tomato) the only way I seem to be able to combat the problem is careful and thorough cleansing both morning and night. I have tried all the usual big named raves, Eve Lom (allergic), Liz Earle cleanse and polish (um…allergic), Clinique 3-step (face practically fell off…although I do like their ultra mild soap bar for when I have an attack of the greasies), Some new fancy one from Chanel (it made my pores worse if anything, and as a result was promptly returned to the very nice ladies at John Lewis)….. you get the picture. I don’t have much luck.

Then I read about Rodial Glamtox Cleanser in The Anti-ageing Beauty Bible (which if you are a self-confessed beauty whore like me will provide hours of entertainment) and due to the positive reviews thought I’d give it a whirl. It gets rid of every scrap of make-up and when used with a warm flannel seems to remove the vast majority of unwanted flakes, it also turns from a pleasant balm to a milky-like consistency on contact with water which I like and includes anti-inflammatories as well as a whole host of moisturising ingredients. My skin is substantially clearer as a result of using it – that’s all I can tell you.

Rodial Glamtox Cleanser retails at a staggering £50 (I know – told you it was Luxe) and is 100% paraben free, you can buy it from Space NK. Rodial also do “Boob Job In A jar” which might be the weirdest and most random thing I’ve ever heard of. However, if you’ve used it and it does the trick then of course let me know…

Softly Softly

As well as a good cleanser I love a really good moisturiser. And although I want it to essentially um….moisturise I also want the perfect base for make-up – i.e nothing super oily. After receiving some rather generous samples from Elemis I fell head over heels for their Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream (you may have heard of their ever popular Marine cream which is in the same range). It goes on like silk. And sinks in like a dream. And yes it’s called a night cream but I have been using it in the day too, it also doesn’t contain any silicones which seem to block my pores and cosmetics manufacturers insist on putting ‘em in practically EVERYTHING these days.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream retails at an eye watering £90 for 50ml but does contain some especially lovely lubricants such as Shea Butter, Avocado and Rosa Damascena oil. If you are feeling the need to self-gift you can buy yourself a tub from John Lewis.

Drink Up

Aptly named “Intense Hydrating Booster” this little bottle of magic by facialist-to-fancy-famous-types Sarah Chapman does exactly that – adds an extra bit of hydration to thirsty weather-ravaged skin. It is basically a serum comprising of Hyaluronic acid, universally praised for its water binding properties and the ability to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and crepiness.

I put in on clean slightly damp skin under my moisturiser and it makes my epidermis all dewy and radiant. Apparently you can also add it to your favourite foundation to make it more sheer – bonus.

Sarah Chapman Intense Hydrating Booster is available from Victoria Health (I have mentioned this on-line mecca before but if you missed it you are missing out people). It retails at £57 per 30ml…. and I have officially given up apologising for the price of everything.

Lit From Within

To add an extra extra glow for the recent party season I was very much taken with the Elemis Visible Brilliance brightener, a silky liquid that makes you look lit from within and just like you have had a good nights sleep (even if you haven’t). I like it so much I think it might even replace my current go-to primer.

This was another freebie sample but I will be going out to treat myself to the full size version once my plastic has recovered from Christmas. I sincerely hope this is sooner rather than later.

Elemis Visible Brilliance is available from John Lewis as before but also Debenhams if you don’t happen to have a JL near you, both stores seem to be quite generous in terms of try-before-you-buy. It retails at about £40 and you only need to use a pea-sized amount, yes even if you are inflicted blessed with a giant moon head like moi.

A Veil Of Loveliness

After all of that prepping it would be a travesty to cover yourself in a thick make-up base and tons of powder – let your natural (and sparkling) skin shine through I say.

Although I am not a fan of the cleanser I am a fan of Liz Earle Skin Tint - it is both rich and surprisingly blemish-hiding considering its translucent finish. I also like the fact it has yellowish undertones and as a result hides blue-hued under eye circles.

Liz Earle Skin Tint in available at the on-line Liz Earle store. It retails at £21 but a little does go a long way – honest.

My Body Is A Temple

Actually it isn’t (especially after all that seasonal sugar) but Skin Nourishing Hand an Body Lotion by Elemis sure makes me feel like it could be a shrine to all things smooth and touchable. And before you ask no, I do not work on commission for this brand. And yes this was a freebie but a FULL SIZE freebie that came in the very sexy goody bag Team RMW received from the Matthew Williamson trunk show that we attended last month.

It feels luxurious. It smells luxurious. It isn’t in the slightest bit sticky and the fragrance doesn’t assault your perfume like some whiffy limb-specific creams can.

Elemis Skin Nourishing Hand and Body Lotion is about £20 (and that is practically a bargain compared to everything else I have shown right?), you can go grab yourself a tube (or two) from John Lewis or Debenhams.

And just to show that men really are from Mars….

(Vix has just slathered herself in the above product)

Malc (Vix’s fiancé): You smell nice, is that new?

Vix: Yes it is a very posh body lotion, I love it..

Malc: Hmmm yes it smells like..it smells like….Shake and Vac?

Shake and Vac?(!)

Do they still make that stuff?!

I think he meant fresh and kind of powdery. Or at least I hope he did. Because if he didn’t both Vix and I are spending 2012 with an aroma reminisent of my Nan’s carpet.

Big Tell Us What You’ve Got In YOUR Bathroom Cabinet Love

Charlotte xxx

P.S – a nice lady on the RMW Facebook page has just let us know there are generous discounts (20% +) on Elemis products available on Hqhair.com …..maybe I can bag that brightener after all?

*Waves* Happy Sunday You Gorgeous Lot! Now I know you have seen this competition before but the question is HAVE YOU ENTERED?! Because not only can you win TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY POUNDS worth of pretty you will also be entitled to 20% off whatever items you leave us a comment about. So even if you don’t win (which you might – let’s face it, this has much better odds than the lottery)… you can still have your fancy jewels at a not so fancy price.

Oh, and did I mention Christmas? I mean who said these pieces were just for W-day anyway……

GO FORTH AND ENTER PEOPLE.

How would you like to win £250 worth of W-day goodies?

And when I say “goodies” I actually mean pretty – bejewelled type pretty. And when I say W-day you can of course have this pretty for any day of the week.

Rock My Wedding and Liberty In Love have teamed up to bring you the HOT ONE HUNDRED, a hundred of our favourite products that we think you gorgeous lot will love….and you can win!

Clockwise From Top Left:

The Vintage Hollywood Deco Brow Bridal Headpiece by Fabledreams (told you I was into pearls)

The Deco Cuff by Jane-Taylor Millinery (this is so statement it could be the only jewellery item you need)

The Art Deco earrings by Stephanie Brown. I have wanted these to swing from my lobes from the first moment I saw them.

The Ragalia Madame headpiece by Stephanie Browne. I have yet to see a Bride don this piece and someone really needs to.

The Westwood earrings and bracelet by Stephanie Browne (yes I know – I do so love her designs..)

The Art Deco long crystal drop tower earrings by Peter Lang. I have no words.

Of course there are a whole ninety three (!) other items you could get your soon-to-be-ailse-walking mitts on so please do go over to the Rock My Wedding HOT 100 page and have a butchers.

How To Enter: What you will need to do is drop us a comment telling us what are your favourite pieces and why, then put your details in the submission box at the end of this post to whizz over to Liberty In Love. This will capture your email address and between us we will pick a (very) lucky winner.

*Please note, we will not under any circumstances share your email address details with any third parties.

Don’t forget £250 means you could have several items up to this value or it could be a contribution towards one INCREDIBLY FANCY item. The choice is completely yours.

The competition closes at Midnight on the 16th December……So what are you waiting for folks, get entering!!!!

Big Hot One Hundred Love

Charlotte xxx

But what I do experience often (apart from howdoIgetmyhairthatkindofpurpleblondeshadelikeyours – yes really) are queries on the source of my statement jewels. It seems that I must appear to have either a) lots of dollar (um…wrong) or b) trawl unusual and trendy boutiques endlessly to find my coveted pieces (again – wrong)

The thing is folks I have a naughty little secret. I am not in anyway an accessory guru. And actually I don’t deserve any praise for the ability to purchase such stylish baubles.

I buy them from one shop and one shop only. And they are CHEAP.

It’s called Cos and it’s the “posh” version of H & M.

And the reason I’m telling you this is because not only would some of the pretty be perfect for Christmas presents (I will tell you what I have bought and for whom later in the post) but also for your best girls come W-day, both a gift AND something they can wear on the day itself.

I nearly let the cat out of the bag when people asked where I had bought the leather neck candy I wore for the Barbers pictures taken for our About page. But I think only a small mention in the comments section meant I almost got away with it.

So then, here goes – immense (and I mean IMMENSE) jewellery for minimal Mastercard battering.

The Ones You MUST Wear On Your Wrist Immediately

The Pin bracelet. There is also a necklace, both edgy, cool AND delicate at the same time. £12.

The Leather Box Bracelet. I think this would also look good on boys. £19

The Folded Bangle. When I said statement I meant it. You would literally have someone’s eye out. £12

The Box Chain Bracelet. The most beautiful shade of bronze. I bought this one for Vix (with matching necklace) for Christmas. £12

Chic, Unique and Very VERY Cheap

The Perspex Drop Earrings. I can’t explain just how cool these are. You will just have to buy them for yourself and see. £12.

The Two-Tone Chain: Are you having a grey and yellow colour scheme for W-day? yes? then you need this in your life. I get complimented on this item a LOT. And I’m not sure why but usually by those of the male variety. Oh and it’s £9. Really.

The Leather Lace Necklace: It’s back in stock people. Throw it on with a plain white T and jeans and you’re good to go. £29.

The City Charm Bracelet. This is so random it’s brilliant. It has skyscapers, cars and even a dog walker hanging from it. A lovely gift for a best girl attending a big day in the city don’t you think? £15.

I have told Vix that under no uncertain terms is she allowed to look at this post.

And I bought the pin bracelet for my best friend Sarah. And the knock-your-eye-out bangle for my sister. And that’s because I love them very much not at all because I want to borrow them.

Other things from Cos that you might like:

Ribbed Fingerless Gloves. I wear these to blog in when I’m especially chilly.

Lace Bra And Matching Panties: I am usually a plain/floral underwear girl but even I was quite taken with these. Unbelievably pretty. £25 and £17.

Contrast Sleeve Jumper. Quite possibly the greatest jumper in the world.£59.

So lovelies, ever bought anything from Cos before?

And are you going to now?

Do tell.

Big Not Such A Naughty Secret Anymore Love

Charlotte xxx