Sunday 26 October 2014

The Editorial Edit #1

Ive always been very honest about using this blog as an expressive platform to voice my personal opinions of certain styles, trends, fashion collections, beauty products etc, I sometimes feel I cover a bit too much! I tend to be more specific in other projects but Factory F covers a vast range of beauty and fashion. In more recent times, perhaps a year, I have focused a lot of my time looking at campaigns from various different brands; how they work, what's the message, what's different, who cares about this campaign, who does it resonate with, how does it make them feel? Basically, dissecting marketing methods from afar. I've never done much with this information but simply just thought about it, but recently I thought It might make a nice additional feature to Factory F. 



You may be wondering what is the point of this, and to tell you the truth it's exactly like every other aspect of this blog, it's about sharing my opinions, thoughts and passions with you. It may also bring to light some brands that you may not be aware of or a new collection that you haven't yet seen. Naturally, I will share some actual real lIfe campaigns that I'm working on with my job but I won't dive straight into that. For this post I decided to talk about why I think editorials are such an important addition to brands, and personally I think a large factor is to visual resonate with people much more because it gives the  story of that brand or product. It's completely fair to say at this point that a press release also does that, but (and I say as someone who works in PR) does the image featured above not tell you more about message of that editorial and clothing rather than a paragraphs explaining where the clothes come from and what they should represent? 


 A lot of the images that I will share with you in this additional feature will come from publications as it will be these title editorials and featured advertising that I will be taking about. As a side note to this story, I recently. Started to download my favourites monthlys instead of popping down to the shop to buy them. Why did I start this I can hear you ask? Well, one of my personal highlights to read every month is Company magazine which has now transformed to a completely digital magazine. At first I was a bit unsure if how I felt about that because I love reading a physical copy in front of me but I've been readjusting. Actually that's putting it mild, I've been completely transformed into digital editions; Vogue, Elle, Company, Red, Marie Claire.... The list goes on but they all now get the download on my ipad each month. One major reason for my change of heart is down to the technical features! A major role within my job in social media and when I saw how interactive and social friendly these apps are made me realise that I'm actually not really on top of this digital age after all. Inspiration has  been restored! 

                                         I can't wait to share the first in this new series very soon. 
                                                                               Love C X 

Monday 20 October 2014

October Faves

October Faves


 So, it's the return of autumn favourites. It's an annual revisit of heavy coats, denims and layering. Yay!!  These are without a doubt my top choices for this season. Stepping more towards autumnal shades with beauty,complimented with an oversized winter coat. River Island have a beautiful option which I have my eye on. Next payday it will be mine! Being a massive fan of black accessories is again reflected in footwear and my nail choice, the leather backpack is also amazing!! I've been debaiting a backpack for awhile as I question the safety issues but for fashion reasons I can't argue with how beautiful this one is. Full information on all items featured are below; 

Thursday 16 October 2014

So, Factory F moves to London

I'm home! The past few months have been nothing short of manic, from work to settling in London and just enjoying life in a new city, I haven't really stopped. I've decided to take a few weeks to just chill out and relax, definitely well needed. Although the theme of this blog is primarily fashion and beauty, this post is slightly different. This is going to be more of an update on what I've been up to and I have to say, some of it has been really exciting!

Firstly, as I mentioned in a previous post I started working for two hair care brands at the beginning of the year; Goldwell & KMS California. This has been a really exciting and so far my role as PR & Comms  has been great. Working for such an established brand has allowed me to work on some really creative and large scale events; London Fashion Week being massive highlight for me.

Our brand sponsored the Bora Aksu show on day one at Somerset House. As this was my first time as LFW, I wasn't too sure what to expect but working backstage was definitively a privileged insight into understand the one of fashions most prestigious events. Meeting press, bloggers and stylists which I have admired from afar for years was overwhelming in the best way. Along with working backstage, sitting in the second row of one of the most talked about shows at this years fashion week topped this exceptional experience. The hair for the Bora Aksu show was styled by Sam Burnett, KMS California Ambassador. Read all bout the show and how to get the look here


So besides work London has been an adventure. After 7 months of living here I'm happy to be getting back into the swing of Factory F and returning to something that I love. I'm really excited to start sharing what life has been like over here; from fashion to food to art and back to fashion again. I suppose this has been a natural progression for this blog as interests have broadened since this blog first began a year ago. Fashion will remain my main focus but elements of lifestyle will drip feed through from time to time. Overall I feel this will be a positive change for me and for the future of Factory F.


Looking forward to sharing more exciting news with you
Love C X 

Tuesday 29 July 2014

White Angel

White Angel




I've mentioned recently that I love monochrome. Actually, over the past year I've talked about this alot!! At the minute I'm over black a little (well at least until winter rolls back around), so I've put together some pieces that are all white inspired. Some bits are what I'm planning on buying or just on the wish list; I think the price points explain themselves.

Thursday 24 July 2014

The Fresh Approach


This is an unusual post for me and for Factory F because it's very rare that I steer from the topic of fashion or beauty, but there is a first for everything. For those of you who know me well, "healthy-eater" would not be a phrase that springs to mind when describing my eating habits. Completely fair! During summer though I do really try to make an effort when it comes to eating more fruit (even though I'm still craving chocolate all the time) and it seems this summer has been my most successful to date... WooHoo :) 

By sticking to fruits that I have a taste for; strawberries, grapes, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, and adding some natural yogurt, I've been turning them into smoothies. I'm also the type of person who will take the extra ten minutes in bed in the morning when possible, so making myself get up  extra early to make them takes a lot of commitment for me. It's all about routine I suppose. But the most exciting aspect fo this new fruit craze is the affect it has on my skin. I've always been someone who has suffered with bad skin as a teenager and thankfully, this phased did pass with no scaring at all but I do become self conscious at times when I do break out. Fresh, clear skin has been something I think everyone wishes for and who thought  it could begin with fresh fruit!!! I know, I should have started listening to my mother a long time ago. 


I've also stepped up my game big time in relation to skin care, investing heavily on moisturizers has been a god sent! It's an age old debate; does the results  of a product reflect the price we pay? My conclusion has somewhat shifted recently, I used to say no but I think ,in actual fact, it does. My mum has always bought the absolute best skin care for herself and I would often sneak some off  her. Why? Because I always thought my skin felt better for it! I was lucky enough to receive some Molton Brown Creole  Grass Anti-Ageing Hydra-Crémeskin care a few months ago and all I can say is, OH MY GOD! My skin has never felt or looked so fresh. No honestly, it hasn't. I exfoliate my skin once a week but this range just gave me that extra lease of life. 



Exercise isn't something I love to do, actually I never really do it! But I balance that through watching what I eat.... and dancing. I dance a lot in my room :) I'm really enjoying this extra burst of energy from a change in diet, but it has been as a result of improved skin cream. Recently I also tried Estee Lauder day wear moisturiser, and again just as amazing. I have to admit that I do prefer Molton Brown but I find it hard to give £65 for it, so I'm trying to find creams that will give me as similar result at a lower price. 


The weather has been so beautiful in London the past few weeks that it's been hard to wear clothes! I've been trying to hold back on/limit the amount of make up that I wear, which isn't so fun but the sweaty look isn't so hot either. Summer is a great time to strip back and go for a natural approach to styling and beauty. Personally, as a very pale Irish girl who doesn't tan and only ever burns, I would say I'm a winter girl at heart but I'm trying my best to embrace it because all my favorite clothes are summer based; kimonos and dresses, shorts!! I don't like tights :( 

But on  the bright side to skipping make up on the odd day is that it has also boosted the life in my skin #Result 


Love C X 








Wednesday 23 July 2014

Bobbi Brown: Make Up Brushes Full Set


I had been thinking for a while that Ive wanted to invest in some really good make up brushes. I usually pick up some as I tend to need them, like a new foundation brush every so often, blusher brush every few months, the odd eye shadow brush here and there. But this time I did things a little differently, I bought a whole 24 piece brush set. I have used MAC brushes in the past, and I'm not saying they are bad because let's face it they're not but I wanted to try a brush that I hadn't used before and I have only heard great things about Bobbi Brown. I have to say I'm a bit biased because I bought the Bobbi Brown Make Up Manual about a year ago, so I've been wanted to try the actual brushes for these specific looks. I know I gave in.... 

For me, a good brush brand has always been determined on the basis of how good the foundation brush is, simple but true. Some brushes just don't blend the foundation on my face (not that I'm using a lot of foundation by any means). With my skin being dry/combination, I use a an oil free foundation mostly and I like one that gives a light matte finish which requires a make up which sets properly, which just can't be achieved with a bad brush. My personal view is whatever the cost, I'll pay it if the job is done right! 



When my brushes arrived, naturally I was really excited to get going and try them out. I'm a big fan of BB cream and always try and put this on before my foundation, I tested out the Bobbi Brown foundation brush for this, and I was really, really happy with the result. The brush is also quite strong so it can hold the harsh blending against my skin which can often be the case when applying. For my actual day time foundation I use my Chanel #6 foundation brush still, as much as I'm loving my Bobbi Brown brushes I can't bear to stop using this one. It's the best one I've ever used because my make up sits perfectly on my my face after I use it and after I wash it, it doesn't feel out of place or clumpy which can often happen. 

Other than the one exception of using my Chanel brush, I've been using my Bobbi Brown brushes and I'm so pleased with them. I just think that it's important to point  out that I have not been asked to review these brushes by any company, I just really enjoy using them. I'm also the type of person who will use a different brush for everything. Yes, I'm that annoying person! But since I first started to really become interested in the different angles of applying make up I have become fascinated on how much better my overall look is because I've used a brush, and properly also. It is really important to learn how to apply properly. 

Another result of this investment, I went away and bought a new Urban Decay Naked palette, it's the only real way to experiment right? Well, this palette is just simply stunning anyway and I'm sure most of you are all too aware of beautifully easy it is to blend the rich tones. I have a few of my favourite combination which I will put together in a blog post soon. 


Naturally enough I am now all about taking care of my brushes |(I'm afraid to admit that this wasn't always the way). I try my very hardest to clean my brushes at least once a week and I've noticed that it makes me make up appear much better as a result, mainly due to the fact clumps of old make up is now gone from the brush. I'm aware this is common sense to most people but honestly, cleaning brushes regularly is such a new craze for me and I'm loving the results. The product that has been highly recommended to me over the years is MAC Brush Cleaner. I'm still discovering the best method; at the moment I'm mixing with water and rinsing the brushes through. It does give a deep clean but I would love to know if anyone has other tips or tricks for cleaning brushes. 

Another exploration for me with my new brushes is I'm experimenting more with eye make up as I previously mentioned. So I picked up a new Urban Decay Naked 2Palette, which is mainly made up of dusty tones of brown, gold, deep lilac, blending beautifully together to give a wide variety of overall looks. 






Have you tried the Bobbi Brown brushes? What are your thoughts? 
Love C X 




Friday 18 July 2014

Bomber Reboot




So we've had an influx of the 90's revival over the past year! From joggers, to scrunchies and back to high waisted denims. And thankfully, it seems that it's not going anywhere soon. I was very sceptical to believe that this trend would become as big as it has, thankfully I was wrong! The multitude of colours and prints that are available were definitely a bargaining factor for me when I was debating weather I should buy one of not, I obviously gave in and bought a floral option from Primark. I tend to try out something with a Primark version before I commit to the cost of a better quality option. 



Street style is a massive inspiration personally, and teaming bombers with basics is a look that I'm loving!! Bringing back the summer classic of maxi skirts and simple tanks, as well as going crazy with accessories is what I love.I recently took some street style images (as part of my job) and came across one girl called Rachel who literally just pinned this look perfectly. Just a simple black dress and silk vintage pattern bomber. Very similar to the image above actually.

  Black is obviously a colour that goes with everything, I mean try name one thing that it doesn't go with... Okay, navy! But still, I think sometimes black and navy work. So basically, it goes with everything, but the point I'm trying to make is that is that it particularly works with the vintage bomber. 

Below are current options available at Primark which I love, just incase you want to take a leaf out of my book and try the cheaper options before commiting to the higher priced options. Also, they are both just beautiful designed and at 15 pounds! #Bargain 

I have the floral option but getting the black one next :) 




Love C X 



Monday 14 July 2014

Fancy a trip to LFW??


For those of you who are regulars to this blog, you may have remember me briefly speaking about my new job, but now I'm going to tell you a little bit more about it! So I work for two hair brands; Goldwell & KMS California. I reason why I'm breaking the silence a bit on the this topic and giving some more information is because KMS California have launched such an amazing competition that I had to share it with you guys. Basically, KMS are giving a lucky Pinterest follower the most amazing LFW prize I've ever seen! Unfortunately I can't enter because of my association with the company but just listen to this for a prize; 

  •                     Two Tickets to the Bora Aksu London Fashion Week how taking place in                          London in September 2014 (Please note that the exact date of the show will be announced nearer to the event)
  • Lunch for two (2) at Hawksmoor, supplied via a gift card to the value of £150.
  • Manicures & Champagne for the winner and their guest on the day of the Bora Aksu show at MW Nails at Spitalfields Market.
  • Hair Styled for the winner and their guest at the KMS California Academy in London on the day of the Bora Aksu show.
  • Return standard train or coach travel from any location for the winner and their guest within the United Kingdom.
  • One night stay the night before the Bora Aksu show at a four star (4*) hotel  in London for the winner and their guest
  • A driver for the day of the show to transport the winner and their guest.
  • £1,000 spending money
- See more here for all T&C's 



Here's how you can enter; 

  • 1.Follow KMS California on Pinterest
  • 2. Create your board title, KMS California & My London Fashion Week Style
  • 3. Start pinning your favourite style pictures and add #kmscalifornia in the description of each picture for a chance to win


  • Have you seen my board? 





    Join in on the Pinterest Party here; KMS California on Pinterest

    Love C X  

    Friday 11 July 2014

    It's all about midi

    It's all about midi

    Another other season, another trend. Since moving to London  the one significant difference that I feel is the change of weather. The summers are a lot hotter here than in Ireland, thankfully! I love having the option to bare the legs, even if it means applying a light layer of some tan! For me, that's summer. I've also started doing this much more now, which also gives me the chance to embrace certain styles which are not nessecarily Irish weather appropriate, the midi skirt being a prime example. Believe me when I say I tried but it really doesn't work out. It's too cold, raining and wearing with tights is a serious no no. But it seems that this style is here to stay which means I finally get to embark a whole new look. 

    Since beginning my new grown up job, I often have to attend meetings and this requires a more formal outfit. Introducing the midi skirt. Throughout my time I've build up quiet a collection of blacks t-shirts and tops, sonive been digging these out and giving them some much needed air time. It's also a great chance to add my pop of colour on my bottom half. I've been going for floral patterns but I love the block colour options, particularly bold options such as blue & purple. 





    My initial feeling towards midi skirts was that I just couldn't wear them because I was too short but I just made myself get over that fear! Do you guys remember last summer I spoke about how I loved maxi skirts, like obsessed! Well this is my upgrade! 

    I tend to look in Primark for a cheaper alternative to something that I'm thinking about buying. A few weeks ago I was in Primark in oxford street and spotted a gorgeous floral midi and picked it up. I wore it to work a few days later and everyone thought it was from Ted Baker!! Sometimes Primark  has some gems. 



    I've since picked up a variation of styles, I started by investing in a lovely black one from H&M at a bargain of £20, and an olive green one in a silk material. So beautiful and perfect for what's left of the summer months. 

    Are you loving midi's?? 

    Love C X 









    Monday 7 July 2014

    July Loves

    July Loves


    It's all about reinforcing summer vibes for me this month. White is a colour I would never normally opt for when it comes to denim, but I'm trying to be brave! Topshop have some great options, the best being the ripped denim version in the image above. I have these denims in black and navy, they are a great fit and a complete bargain so I have no excuse but to try these out.

    The white crochet top is from H&M which I actually tried on in the shop the other day and regret not buying it then so much. You know if you're still thinking about it a few days later you have to give in and buy it! And that is exactly what I'm going to do. It's also a great styling options with a pair of high waisted denims fr the festival season. Can't wait to wear mine to Electric Picnic at the end of September. The mix of the orange bag and lip definitely give the pop of color to the look.

    Pool sliders are a massive trend right now,and I love them. Perfect for my ripped jeans! Primark have some lovely options if you're shopping on a budget. I recently bought the Iphone 5s in black (switching from the white for a change), so that is why it's featured, because I love it!

    All items featured in this post can be found through the links below. 
    Let me know which items you love. 

    Love C X 

    Saturday 5 July 2014

    What's in my beauty bag?



    It's been awhile since I last posted on this blog. It has been a crazy few months, between moving to London and starting a new full time job.When I moved I was very lucky to be offered a great opportunity to work  in PR for two renowned hair brands Goldwell & KMS California. I'm loving this role and learning so much about hair that I never knew before (you may start to notice me talking about hair related topics more now!). London is amazing, as I knew it would be! I'm here about 4 months now so I've settled a bit but still so excited about everything. I've been trying to do things on the weekends at different parts of the city and explore, another reason for my lack of time for blogging. But now that this is some what out of my system a bit I'm ready to return to the wonderful world of Factory F. 




    With this being said, working a full time 9-5 has been an adjustment. First of all, it's definitely better than working in retail, and it's also an additional bonus to work  in a job that I actually enjoy, it makes all the difference. But now my days are much longer and usually when I spend all day sitting by a computer I tend to touch my face much more, so I've been searching for long lasting products that get me through the day until I'm home again in the evening. My make up is very important and I'm always looking for new, amazing products so today I'm going to talk you through what I'm using at the moment and why I love it;

    Clinique 


    I've never been one to cake on layers of layers of foundation, I just enjoy one that covers all my blemishes and suits my combination skin. Over the years new revelations have been introduced to the market; from primers to CC creams. I've tried nearly all the primers out there and the best is definitely from a brand called Catrice. Unfortunately I haven't been able to find this range anywhere in London. if anyone knows of where it is stocked please let me know.
    Then we are told  that a ground breaking concealer can transform our look and hide bags & blemishes best. So between moisturizers, toners, cleansers, primers and concealers we have so many products on our skin, and this is even before our foundation is applied. I was very late to the party of BB creams. I debated for months about weather it actually worked. I wrote a post about this debate earlier in the year; The Beauty Shift. I won't repeat myself but applying BB cream under my foundation really does cover all the basics and blends really beautifully with my foundation (both of which are clinique, products seen above). 

    Chanel Les Beiges Powder 

    Another product that I never warmed to when I was a teenager was powder. Glowing skin is something that I think everyone aims for. I used to convince myself that this look was achieved from lack of powder but now I just think that it makes me look really shiny! Not a good look! Since then I've changed my attitude and warmed to the product. I started with Rimmel but found it really made my skin cakey, a normal symptom for anyone with combination skin. A few weeks ago I was in the airport and I just can't help myself in duty free, I always buy something! So I ended up buying this Chanel powder and honestly, it has completely changed my view on powders. It does exactly what I need it to do; combats shine, completes my skin, perfect amount of matte without flaking. It's the dream powder.


    YSL: Touche Eclate

    The phase of contouring is still very much here. I've watched so many tutorials on how to master it and the best products for this technique. Quiet simple, I'll give or take contouring as it is a lot of effort to do every morning before work, the time of my day where time is most limited, but this highlighter has now become that beauty product that I can't leave the house without. I apply along the rim of my nose and under my eyes and it brightens my features so much it's unbelievable. When I apply lipstick I also use touche eclat around my lips as it adds another dimension to the overall look. If you're contouring or simply looking for a product to add a freshness to your current look this is for you. 

                                                              Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 

    Ever since I've started blogging I have always spoken about the value of investing in eye shadow palettes; In The Shadows. I recently bought the Naked Palette (another thing that I was really late to the party with). For any of who who use these palettes will already know the significant value of it, it's so handy and the range of colours offer a variation of looks and styles. I use it everyday now and not that expensive considering all of the shades contained in the palette. 

                                                                    Bobbi Brown Brushes 

    No beauty set up is complete without the tools for application, and I've only ever read great reviews about the magic of Bobbi Brown brushes. So I invested some of my money into buying a whole set! I picked up all face, eye and lip brushes, and with the addition of my Chanel foundation brush, I feel like my set has been completed. I don't need to use all of the brushes for my every day routine but for a night out they will all be needed! I have to say I'm so pleased with them. They apply my make up so well, which can often be a difficult task with face brushes in particular. I am thinking about doing a separate post on all the brushes and how to use properly. If you would be interested in reading this please let me know. I've used MAC brushes in the past and honestly didn't feel value for money in terms of the longevity of the brushes, after a few washes the application effect just wasn't the same for me. These Bobbi Brown brushes come with a high recommendation from me and a great investment.
                                                    
                                                      Let me know what's in your beauty bag? 



    Love C X 





    Tuesday 29 April 2014

    Purple Reign


    So recently all I can think about is changing the colour of my hair. I've been blonde for about two & a half years now, so I think it's time to freshen things up a bit! I'm usually one to keep things safe when it comes to my hair but pastel purple hair has been done so well on other people that this perfection has transformed my safe thinking into bravery. That fear that I think everyone gets just before they dye their hair a new colour is very much present right now, but I really think I'll regret it if I don't do it now. 



    At the minute my hair is ash blonde, it was much lighter & brighter but about two months ago I darkened it. I'm now thinking that this was a mistake as the purple would have taken much better to my hair. Oh well!My skin colouring is also quiet pale which I think works really well with this style. I may even ditch the fake tan altogether... maybe!
    Below is how my hair looks at the moment! 





    Have you dyed your hair recently?? If so, what colour?? Let me know what you think of this colour?? 


    Love C X