2015 Favourites

Goodbye 2015, hello 2016.
Let’s start with that “New Year, new me” nonsense again.

2015 was a hectic year for me, starting a university course I know nothing about (and arguably still don’t), bucket loads of work, tallying up sleepless nights, and trying to answer that oh-so existential question of “What is my purpose?” –  to which I still have no answer, but that’s besides the point.

Throughout the year I’ve stacked up on a tonne of goodies and loves whether it be make-up, fashion, food, books, you name it. So here’s my report on the things I’ve loved and consistently used this past year and get ready… it’s a long list.

Make-up:
Kat Von D Tattoo Liner – Trooper
Ahh what is there to say about this eye-liner? With a paint-brush tip and a lovely dark and matte finish, this eye-liner is waterproof, smudgeproof and pretty much… foolproof. My long search for a great eye-liner is over and I couldn’t be happier with KVD’s brilliant formula.

Bourjois 123 Perfect CC Cream
Following the CC and BB Cream craze, Bourjois’ new 123 Perfect CC Cream is for sure worth your purchase. With three colour-correcting pigments, the cream leaves your skin looking even, brightened and radiant. With its texture akin to a moisturiser, I think it’s the perfect thing to wear everyday for a no-fuss look.

L’oreal Infallible 24H-Matte Foundation
This full coverage foundation is amazing. The formula is easy to spread, is lightweight and holds all day against heat, humidity and sweat. There’s not much else to say except job well done, L’oreal!

Maybelline  The Mega Plush Volume Express Waterproof Mascara
I am a very big fan of Maybelline mascaras and for years I used their waterproof The Falsies Volume Express Mascara. It was at this point and during a 40% off sale, that I decided to branch out into new territory. This mascara does not transfer and it keeps your lashes curled literally all day. I have those really stubborn “no screw you, I won’t stay curled” lashes, and this really did hold! As for its claims to volumise, I can’t really back that up. Nevertheless, the mascara provides a lovely definition and separates your lashes beautifully.

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder – Transluscent
This powder has been a beauty cult favourite for years, and it’s understandable. You stay matte, relatively oil free and it’s cheaper and much better than any alternative in the drug store. Trust me, it’s really good.

Fashion:
Kmart Boots (similar)
I bought a pair of boots for $25, the ones in the link are… yes much more, so go into Kmart. Anyway, I’ve worn those boots for the whole year, almost everyday and they still have yet to give in! Comfy, add height to my otherwise short frame, what more could I want? For sure one of my uni closet staples this year.

Zara Leather Moto  Jacket (similar)
If you saw my last blog post (The To-Do-List: Paste Modernism), you would have seen one of my most prized posessions… my leather jacket. I love it so much, I bought two from Zara. They look slightly different but you have yet to see the other one, hehe. This jacket is yet, another wardrobe staples for me. It jazzes up even the laziest of outfits, it keeps you warm and well covered from rain or sunshine… I love you, jacket.

New Look Floral Split Maxi Dress (Asos)
Check out this post if you’re curious how it looks on (OOTD: The Maxi). I’ve been on the search for a maxi-dress for so long and some good person has heard my pleas. Lightweight, high-neck… a leg slit!? It’s got everything I basically look for! Trust me, if this is in your wardrobe, you’ll feel fab everywhere you go.

Honourable Mentions:
Daniel Wellington Watch (DW)
Letter Necklace
Batman Necklace (TAJU)

Miscellaneous:
1Q84 – Haruki Murakami
This year, a lot of my time has consisted of time travelling to and from uni. In this time, I find that reading is a really nice thing to get into. And for this reason, I have been going through books left right and centre. Looking for a substantial read, 1Q84 caught my eye. In a summary, it’s a wonderful book. There’s something about Murakami’s writing style that not only feels new and foreign, but also oddly familiar.  Essentially, the book focuses on two characters – Aomame and Tengo. The novels tackle themes of murder, history, cult religion, violence, family and love and is a great read for anyone who wants a complex and surreal narrative. If you want a more in depth blog post about the novels, let me know!

Estee Lauder Sensuous Nude Perfume
Sweet, sultry and just… warm and coconutty.  This has been my signature scent of 2015. It lasts hours once you put it on and is just a pleasure to keep sniffing.I just really really really like coconut.

Oral-B 3D Whitestrips
Whiter teeth? Yes please! Albeit kinda pricey, I feel like this has really helped me up my smile game. Make sure you try it out if you don’t feel like going in to the dentist to get those pearly whites.

Higher Living 3D Green Tea Chai
A hug in a mug. A great twist on green tea, it’s really a lovely drink to try if you want to venture out into the world of tea but not so much where you’re out of your comfort zone… I’m looking at you, Licorice tea.

Madame Nhu
Seriously my food highlight of the year. I love pho, and after going to Madame Nhu, I finally feel like I found a place that knows good food (pho-d, hehe I couldn’t resist). Feel free to check out my place where I go more into my adventure at Madame Nhu! (Link) All you basically need to know is, great food at a great price.

Honourable Mention:
Antipodes Hosanna H2O Intensive Skin-Plumping Serum

I hope you’ve all got your resolutions figured out, and have a wonderful new year! x