It’s that girl with the beautiful skin, Rooney Mara! We can’t get enough of her timeless, ethereal appearance with her minimal make up enhancing her natural beauty.  She’s perfect for this time of year as she embraces her pale hue, warming us up with her gorgeous green eyes.  But if there’s one thing us ladies know, it can take alot of make up to look so minimal, so here’s our must haves to help you fool the crowd and recreate Rooney’s flawless finish.

First you need a great base.

The key to Rooney’s minimal look is her complexion: sheer, radiant but very, very matte. To get the perfect matte base use the Givenchy Eclat Matissime foundation. Unlike other ‘radiance’ enhancing foundations which usually contain light reflectors to create a sheer, glowing finish, which can lack in coverage, this is specifically formulated to create that radiance, but with great coverage and a matte finish. This means it’s great for oily skins too. Even out the skintone and banish dark circles and blemishes with the Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealor Kit. This comes with a setting powder as well for extra coverage over more pigmented areas. In order to maintain this matte finish all day you’ll need to finish with a loose setting powder. Loose powders, like this Laura Mercier Mineral Setting powder, are perfect for enhancing a matte finish as they prevent the ‘cakiness’ which can sometimes be brought on by pressed powders.  They’re also translucent so add little colour, this means they are a great product to top up with throughout the day although open with care, loose powder all over your lap is NOT the aim here!

For the eyes

Rooney likes to keep it natural with some subtle smokiness. This Guerlain 4 shadow palette has a great range of tones to take you from day to night. You want to enhance the eye shape but not focus on it so rather than black, go for a brown, hazel or even flesh toned eye liner, this can be smudged out to create a softer line which is great for daytime, this Estee Lauder Kajal liner is perfect for this. Rooney’s lashes frame her eyes beautifully with a soft curl so use the Benefit They’re Real to kept them fluttering all day.

The Finishing Touches.

Add a flush of colour to the cheeks using a bareMinerals loose blush, try and keep it as close to the colour you would naturally go when you pinch your cheeks as possible and once again matte so no shimmer.  For the lips, you guessed it, Rooney keeps them matte. You’ll need to make sure you keep your lips as moisturised as possible to prevent those unsightly flakes we all get in the winter, this Rosebud lip salve is a great option as well as creating the perfect base for lipstick. Finish off with a sweep of lipstick in a natural hue. This Nars Pure Matte Lipstick has a gorgeous range of shades to create that perfect ‘your lips but better’ shade.

And there you have it, your guide to Rooney’s complexion perfection!

Our current beauty crush: Rooney Mara is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

These are the new beauty rules according to the bareMinerals ‘Force of Beauty’ campaign, encouraging every woman to recognise that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and shades. This revolutionary idea is not only a first for bareMinerals, but a first for the beauty industry. bareMinerals has broken away from the traditional image of their Original SPF Foundation and have cast 5 women to be the faces of their ‘Force of Beauty’ campaign. And this wasn’t just any casting this was a blind casting! Yes this is the first time a beauty brand have ever picked their campaign leads without even seeing them!  Final decisions were based purely on answers provided about their personal passions and values. And another thing, all final images have purposefully had what would usually be viewed as ‘imperfections’ like freckles, wrinkles and laughter lines, un-retouched specifically to showcase each model’s real beauty.

Meet these Forces of Beauty!

‘This is pretty revolutionary and unheard of for a beauty company’, said Leslie Blodgett, creator of bareMinerals. ‘Let’s be honest, there was a high level of risk associated with this approach and I had no idea what to expect. What I discovered was how liberating it is to do the right thing and choose women based on their values, not the way they look. We love women and their stories and it reinforces everything we stand for, and frankly, I think the models were equally enamoured with our approach.’

Pretty attracts us, Beauty changes us.

How will you become a Force of Beauty?

Be a Force of Beauty with bareMinerals is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Beauty addicts listen up! House of Fraser Glasgow are launching Diorshow New Look Mascara tomorrow, Saturday 28^th January! This is the ONLY store to stock it before the official launch on the 31^st so get down there first thing and grab yours!

Diorshow New Look Mascara Exclusive launch is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

We had exclusive access to the man behind the hottest celebrity heads to find what products he can’t live without, as well as giving advice on how to achieve your perfect style.

What is the one hair rule you would advise every woman to follow, regardless of hair type?

FF: What makes a great hairstyle is shiny, healthy hair.  It is also essential that you manage the natural texture of your hair, whether it is flat or frizzy, and always make sure your hair looks like it has life.

If you could only choose one styling product to use, what would it be?

A: Fekkai Advanced Brilliant Glossing Cream as the product works on all hair types.  I call it my ‘band aid’ as it is an instant fix for the hair and, no matter what the weather, it takes the frizz away, leaving hair looking healthy and shiny.

‘I want to change up my look but have no idea where to start.’  What would be your advice to those seeking out something new?

FF: Firstly, it is important to find a stylist who will have a consultation with you before cutting or styling your hair.  Then, find a haircut or style that suits you personality and lifestyle, as well as your silhouette.

You have styled an enviable list of A list celebrities in your career, who has been your favourite to work with?  Did they have any favourite products?

FF: My favourite celebrity clients are the ones who have a great sense of their own style, and that allows them to be versatile by exploring lots of looks.  The product depends on the celebrity but most of the time it is the Fekkai Advanced Brilliant Glossing Cream, Fekkai Advanced Full Blown Volume Styling Whip or the Fekkai Coiff Bouffant Lifting and Texturising Spray Gel.

Who, in your opinion, has the most iconic hairstyle of all time?

FF: There are many, it would be impossible for me to name just one.  Some of my favourites are Grace Kelly, Anna Wintour, Jean Seberg, Steve McQueen and James Dean.  I have found that in the past, a look could last forever and that’s what makes it iconic. Today, celebrities change their style all the time to fit in with the current trends.

What are your favourite Fekkai products?

Our Exclusive Interview with Frédéric Fekkai is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

nails inc special effects manicure only £5*

Beat the winter blues and treat yourself to a nails inc special effects manicure for just £5. Choose from show stopping magnetic, crackle, glitter and neon shades. No nail should be seen without a Special Effects manicure this season and this is the perfect opportunity to try out the hottest nail colours.

This nails inc offer if available at the following stores -

Oxford Street, Vistoria, City, Guildford, Glasgow, Bluewater, Bristol, Birmingham, Metro Centre, Cardiff, Nottingham, Belfast, Maidstone, Manchester.

Please our Store Locations for contact details.

*The special effects manicure consists of a nails inc mini manicure with nails painted in magnetic, crackle, glitter or neon nail polish. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or loyalty card. Subject to availability. Advance booking recommended. Valid until 29^th February 2012.

Can’t resist: Nails Inc offer is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

It’s time to get Naked…again!!

Yes beauty fans the wait is over! We’ve managed to get our hands on the coveted Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 to give all you lucky things a glimpse at what’s in store.

So the question on everybody’s lips is ‘does it live up to the hype?’ We all loved the neutral hues of the very first Urban Decay Naked Palette (you gave it 5 star reviews) and there’s no way that’s leaving our make up bags — but do we really need another? What’s Naked 2 got on the original?

We, in the name of beauty, decided to investigate and here’s what we found…

Here they are side by side.

Top -  Urban Decay Naked Palette

Bottom – Urban Decay Naked 2

So at first glimpse it may not seem like there are any particularly huge differences between the two, the only obvious one being the packaging.  Urban Decay took into account feedback regarding the gripes of the original Naked Palette’s velvet packaging (most notably lint clingage), and came up with a sleek tin, which is easily portable and more robust that the first Urban Decay Naked Palette. And the best thing about the packaging? It’s got to be the huge mirror which spans the entire length and width of the palette. It also closes a lot more securely in comparison to the magnetic closure on the first Urban Decay Naked Palette so all eye shadows are well protected whilst on the move!

Now a closer look at the colours.

Top – Urban Decay Naked Palette (Left-Right) Virgin, Sin, Naked, Sidecar, Buck, Half Baked

Bottom – Urban Decay Naked 2 (Left – Right) Foxy, Half Baked, Bootycall, Chopper, Tease, Snakebite

Top – Urban Decay Naked Palette (left-right) Smog, Darkhorse, Toasted, Hustle, Creep, Gunmetal

Bottom – Urban Decay Naked 2 (Left-right) Suspect, Pistol, Verve, YDK, Busted, Blackout

What you will notice about the Urban Decay Naked 2 is how much cooler the shades are compared to the first one and this is essentially the main difference between them. There’s also double the amount of matte shades with four in the Urban Decay Naked 2 compared to two in the Urban Decay Naked Palette.  The addition of the matte black shade Blackout is also great as this is perfect for shading and really getting that beautiful, sultry, smokey eye effect which nude palettes are made for.

The Extras

Top – Good Karma Shadow brush from the Urban Decay Naked Palette

Bottom – Good Karma double ended crease and shadow brush from the Urban Decay Naked 2

Another great addition to the Urban Decay Naked 2 is the Good Karma double ended crease and shadow brush which is exclusive to the palette, you won’t find it anywhere else!  The shadow brush is great for packing on those gorgeous shimmer tones while the crease brush is perfect for blending colours out to become a glittering goddess. And with an Urban Decay brush averaging at about £15+, I think this is a fab deal as you’re basically getting two!

The Urban Decay Primer Potion that came with the original Urban Decay Naked Palette has been replaced with an Urban Decay Lip Junkie lip gloss in the shade Naked, of course! This is a gorgeous mint scented gloss which feels really moisturising on the lips and gives a beautifully, subtle wash of colour which would perfectly compliment any skin tone…it’s your lips but better!

So all in all it’s decided, the Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 is any make up addicts New Year essential! It perfectly compliments the colours in the original Urban Decay Naked Palette and the packaging is just irresistible.

The Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 is available nationwide in House of Fraser stores and at www.houseoffraser.co.uk from 6th February.

Will you be tempted to get Naked again?

Enjoy getting Naked again! with the Urban Decay Naked palette 2 is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Our Social Manager Maddie gives us her take on beauty’s most sought after gadget, the Clarisonic.

‘Even at my most relaxed and breezy, I could be described as someone who likes to be in control. And when it comes to planning a wedding (albeit a small one), during the lead up to Christmas, while working a lot, I could be described as a hyper control freak. And I have been.

The main types of things that are grating on me at the moment are those that are unpredictable and out of my control.  For instance, the weather. Until now, the only interest I’ve taken in the weather is a quick peek out of the window to see if it would be a disastrous mistake to wear suede heels to work. But now, I’m seriously outraged that no one is able to tell me the minute-by-minute weather forecast for the precise postcodes that my wedding party and I will be occupying, 5 weeks in advance.  (Surely someone on the internet can do that, no!? Apparently not.)

The other unpredictable thing that is playing on my mind is my skin. Of course I need to have perfectly clear skin on the big day. It’s unfortunate that I haven’t been blessed with a naturally glowing pallor. I’ve always had intermittent break-outs, general uneven tone and blemishes, not to mention a habit for scratching my face while asleep.

Up steps Clarisonic.

Getting married does give you a huge excuse to spend money on things you wouldn’t usually… and I’d seen some adverts and reviews for Clarisonic. I was intrigued. People were saying that it completely transforms your skin (I certainly hope so!) and that they haven’t worried about spots since they started using it.

So my Clarisonic arrived, along with a host of lovely bottles of cleansers to try with it. The actual gadget is substantial and quite heavy, and the brush is much softer than I expected. I had imagined an oversized electric toothbrush arriving!

What they say:

“Clarisonic Sonic Skin Cleansing Systems use a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to gently, yet thoroughly remove 6X more makeup and 2X more dirt and oil than cleansing with your hands alone. Cleaner skin is the first step toward healthier skin. And healthier skin is smoother, more radiant and more beautiful.”

They also said that I’ll see the effects after the first time I use it. And my skin will continue to improve over the weeks and months of use.

Steps for getting softer, smoother, cleaner skin in just 60 seconds:

1. Charge the handle in the charging cradle.
2. Wet your skin and apply cleanser to the brush head.
3. Use circular motion; 20 seconds on the forehead, 20 seconds on nose/chin, 10 seconds on each cheek (it helpfully keeps the time for you, and beeps when it’s time to switch).

I’ve followed these steps, twice a day, for one minute each time, over the last couple on months. As they said, the effects are immediate – the texture of my skin was softer (almost like velvet) and felt very thoroughly cleaned. I just felt that I needed more moisturiser than usual as it was slightly tight afterwards.

After a few week’s more… my skin was definitely clearer. People were commenting on how much better it looked (my mother!) and it certainly felt much happier. I guess the stimulation brings a little more pink to my cheeks, combine this with having fewer spots, and I looked a lot healthier!

After a couple of months… I’ve maintained these results using the Clarisonic twice a day. And I think I may have reversed some of the crows-feet and wrinkles that were threatening. I still get some spots though. Fewer than pre-Clarisonic days, but still the odd break-out.

Clarisonic obviously can’t take away all the effects of a fast-paced job and a few too many late nights, and the stress of planning a wedding! But it has made a marked difference in the texture and clarity of my skin.’

Have you tried the Clarisonic? What do you think?

Beauty Review: The Clarisonic skin cleansing system is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Can you believe it, January is finally here.  And if you’re feeling slightly like you’ve overindulged with all that food, cheeky Bucks Fizz and countless ‘Christmas ‘dos’ then I’ve got the perfect detox!

Though you may feel like your waistline needs some attention, why not treat yourself, and your skin to a detox?

Destination Skin salons are situated within 7 House of Fraser stores and pride themselves on bringing Harley Street to the high street.  Specialised beauty treatments are no longer privy to the rich and famous, whether you’re looking to refresh your tired skin with a prescription facial, tailor made just for you and your skins needs, or you’re looking for something more permanent, there’s no better time to become you at your best.

Read our reviews below to find out about the treatments we love!

Agera Oxygen Facial reviewed by Mary, Online Editorial Assistant

Having never had a facial before I was really keen to try one.  I really liked the idea of this facial as it was described as ‘an instant brightening and hydrating facial, perfect for the party season or to give dehydrated, tired skins a boost.’ Great for sluggish, tired skin polluted by environmental toxins. So, in short it detoxifies, stimulates cell regeneration, increases circulation and hydrates to reveal beautiful, bright skin. Great, with Christmas and New Year coming up I was definitely ready to dazzle!

I met my practitioner Karen who took guide me through each step of the process starting with the infamous skin scanner! Although it was very strange to see my skin under such odd circumstances, a UV light shines onto it to expose patches of dehydrated, congested or oily skin depending on your condition, the results weren’t actually too alarming! I had patches of dehydration which I expected, especially around my eyes which is easily rectifiable with a consistent skin care routine, the most worrying thing was perhaps the sun damage, having been a sunbed worshipper a few years ago I was also expecting this! However, once again this is easily rectifiable, especially as I no longer use sunbeds and always take care in sunlight.

After this the facial began, my skin was cleansed to remove all make up.  A cold, gel like cream was then rubbed into my skin, this contained vitamin C to help brighten and revitalise my dull, tired skin and was left on for a few minutes. This was then taken off and followed by an intense moisturiser to help with my dehydrated skin.  Again this was left one for a few minutes giving me time to relax and even have a cheeky power nap!

Having never had a facial before I found the procedure a real treat and could definitely get used to incorporating this into a regular routine! My skin felt amazingly soft and so clean, like after a trip to the hygienist, I knew I would never be able to keep this kind of routine up at home.  High street products tend to only work on the dead skin cells so rarely live up to the benefits they claim to have.  This is why salons like Destination Skin are great. They bring Harley Street to the high street with their quick, easy and accessible procedures.  I would highly recommend this facial for anyone needing to brighten up there skin.  Despite having to leave with no make up on I definitely felt fresh faced and couldn’t wait to wake up the next morning to see if it had lasted, and it had!

Agera Oxygen Facial, £150 for a course of 3.

Agera Vitamin C Facial Peel reviewed by Emily, Online Assistant Merchandiser

My treatment began with a trip to the ‘Skin Scanner’. The results were a bit scary to say the least but my practitioner Karen assured me that all of what I saw was completely normal and nothing that couldn’t be treated!

The facial started with a thorough cleanse to ensure all make up and grime was removed. The cleanser had quite a strong alcohol smell but didn’t feel harsh at all. Once my skin was primed and ready and my eye shields were on, the peel was applied. The actual peel consisted of 3 layers. Each layer took about 5 minutes to dry and Karen used a hand held fan to speed up the process. After each application I did experience some tingling and itching on my face but this was eased by the cooling sensation of the fan. Karen also pointed out that this meant the peel was working- exfoliating the skin and getting rid of impurities.

After the 3 layers of the peel were applied, my face was covered with damp gauze. Karen then trickled cool water through the gauze to activate and neutralize the peel which sounds strange but was actually very relaxing. After a few minutes of this she took off the gauze and removed the peel. She then applied a lovely fruity smelling Vitamin C peel to hydrate my skin. The facial then ended with the application of DermaQuest Daily Antioxidant Serum which works to hydrate and smooth the skin as well as protect from any further damage.

I then got the chance to look in the mirror and see the results of the peel. Instantly I could see that my skin looked a lot brighter and felt incredibly smooth. Karen said that it is normal to experience some redness afterward but I didn’t have any. She recommended having this type of peel as often as every week to see maximum results and that the results are even more enhanced when paired with microdermabrasion. After seeing the results of the peel I felt fresher, brighter and ready to face the holiday season!

Skin Peels range from £77 – £225  per Treatment.

Microdermabrasion, reviewed by Emily, Online Content Co-ordinator

My skin was dewy and radiant throughout my teens, that is, until I started university. The stress of myriad causes left me with angry, painful spots that were slow to heal and when they eventually cleared up, my cheeks were marked with red imperfections. So, I was extremely eager to trial the Microdermabrasion at Destination Skin.

Microdermabrasion is essentially an intense exfoliation that penetrates deep into pores of the skin and lifts layers of dead skin, dirt and congestion to reveal brighter, plumper and more youthful looking skin.

First my practitioner, Karen, carried out a revealing skin analysis of my face which highlighted the areas of sun damage, congestion, dehydration and scarring. Although it was initially quite shocking, Karen explained what was visible and how the Microdermabrasion treatment could help to clear the build up of dead skin cells and dirt to prevent spots and also to reveal a smoother complexion.

To start Karen cleansed my skin to remove my make up and then covered my eyes with plastic eye shields to protect them whilst she treated my skin.

The Microdermabrasion itself uses a crystal vacuum wand which releases tiny shards of crystals over the skin, whilst suction technology within the wand instantly sucks up the sand-sized particles of crystal, leaving the skin intensely buffed.

Although the treatment could not be described as soothing or relaxing, it is not a painful experience either. The results are instant and although they may vary from case to case, the treatment can essentially benefit a multitude of skin concerns including open pores, Rosacea or redness, congested skin, acne scarring, ageing skin, fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots and pigmentation.

Finally Karen applied a hydrating face mask and allowed it to penetrate it to my skin before cleansing again and finally applying a layer of moisturiser to my face.

I noticed a visible improvement in the tone and overall appearance of my skin as well as a minimisation of red marks. Most impressively however, my skin was silky smooth and dewily fresh – I was instantly transported right back to my idyllic days of innocence and perfect skin.

Some customers may experience a slight redness following treatment but I would certainly recommend this treatment to anyone with any of the aforementioned skin complaints; the treatment is pain free and highly effective at targeting the areas of concerns that many people struggle with for years.

Microdermabrasion £67 per Treatment, £160 for a course of 3

Destination Skin salons are situated within 7 of our House of Fraser stores including Westfield, Guildford and Glasgow. They also carry a fantastic range of skincare.

Which treatment will you try first?

New year New You? It’s Destination Skin is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

Imagine how delighted I was when a delivery from Shiseido landed on my desk with some gorgeous Skincare treats inside for me to test and review a few weeks ago. The beauty brand has somewhat of a cult following and established way back in 1872, they’ve got pretty good at perfecting their products — I was intrigued and  excited.

I’m trying The Skincare collection. A three step skincare regime designed to combat dehydration (I have combination skin) and manage moisture levels in the skin resulting in a glowing complexion and reduced signs of ageing. Sounds great!

Step one is the Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam. I am always a little weary of facial washes  (I find many drying)  so I approached this with caution. I couldn’t have been more wrong! This satisfyingly sized tube of cleanser feels rich and nourishing, soft and creamy and works into a lather instantly. When I rinsed it away my skin felt ‘squeaky’ clean (it’s now my favourite part of my daily cleansing routine).

Step two is the Hydro-Nourishing Softener which all at once exfoliates and helps the skin to retain moisture. This feels nothing like a regular exfoliator as it’s non abrasive and sweeps on to the skin using a cotton pad. It’s at this stage that you realise how super the cleansing foam is as there is never a trace of makeup or dirt on the pad!

Finally, my skin gets a real treat with the Day Moisture Protection (SPF 15) which is a lovely light lotion.  It’s quickly absorbed and the pump action bottle means the end to messy pots!

I’ve been using this trio of products for three weeks now and can safely say i have noticed a difference in my skin. It feels much healthier and smoother and is softer to the touch. An all round fabulous beauty discovery for me!

Beauty Review: Shiseido is a post from: House of Fraser Blog

It’s our favourite time of year (other than Christmas) !! SALE! If you’ve had enough of the family, can’t bear to think about turkey and didn’t quite get everything you wanted have a sneak peek at some of our top sale picks and start spending your Christmas vouchers…

Picks for the girls

Mary Portas Utility shirt was £105 now £63

Karen Millen satin shift dress was £175 now £120

Planet Pea coat was £179 now £99

J’adore Dior gift set was £98 now £68.60

Biba lip palette was £24 now £19.20

Clarins Gorgeous Getaways was £44 now £30.80

Picks for the guys

G-Star denim shirt was £105 now £78.75

Jaeger merino jumper was £115 now £65

Mango jeans was £49.90 now £34.90

Picks for the pad

Cuisinart coffee machine was £150 now £75

Linea crystal glassware from £7

Panasonic 3D TV was £1099.99 now £749.99

Picks for the little ones

Uttam girls dress was £29.99 now £14.99

Timberland puffa jacket was £85 now £51

Little Joules t shirt was £29.95 now £20.96

Looking for something else? shop the rest of the House of Fraser sale.

Our top sale picks is a post from: House of Fraser Blog