Ted Baker Washbag in Drina - Review

A post Christmas splurge for one of these bags has been on the cards for a while now. Ted Baker, to me, as a brand emulates quality and general gorgeousness. Initially, it was on my Christmas list but because my Mum is somewhat sane, she decided not to spend out on a simple wash bag. But me, well, I'm not.

In the sales this bag was £15, knocked down from £22. Bargain! Ok, ok, so in hindsight spending over a fiver on a make up bag is pretty obscene for a 17 year old.  To give reason to this insanity I have to argue that it's so pretty and the sales are just an excuse to get presents for yourself as a sort of 'well done for surviving the festive period'. So this was mine.

Buying online meant shipping was £4.50, which is ridiculous. Totally mental. Luckily the powers off the internet saved me of that with a free delivery discount code. Thank god! But, the packaging, oh the packaging, it turned up in a lime green box and 'Ted always delivers' printed in swirly writing as you lift up the lid. I like the effort, its different from the bog standard recyclable plastic bags that my purchases usually turn up in.

On to the bag... its miniature, perfect for travelling with basics or just to slip into your hand bag for everyday essentials. Although, I'm not really one for taking make up out with me, mainly in fear of losing it. I don't think I could deal with myself if I lost the only things that stops me from looking like one of Fagin's children on a daily basis.

The pattern on the bag is dreamy, the sequin print is just pretty and dainty. I think that's how it can be described; pretty. The little touches on this bag like the rose gold zip and the pearly pink satin insides, just complete the luxury of the bag. Am I in love? Almost.

I think I'm now living with the fear I have is ruining the gorgeous insides with my clumsy make-up stained hands. I'll best be on my best behaviour when using this!

St Ives Naturally Clear Facial Scrub - Review

There is no other way of putting this: when it comes to a skin care routine I just fail. I want to have a really regimented morning of cleansing and toning and moisturising and faffing about with all sorts of products, but even when I set my alarm extra early to do a bit of exercise, I automatically reach for the snooze button and flop back into bed and wake up at quarter to 8, 15 minutes before I have to leave for school. It's safe to say every single day is a rush.

So skin care for me is reserved for the evenings, and this product has certainly made an impact on that routine. I was attracted to this product because of the apricot scent. I recently tried an Origins Drink Up Face Mask which you leave on your face all night and it smells so super delicious, it's unreal. Regrettably, I didn't smell the St Ives scrub before I brought it, and due to the packaging I assumed that it would make my face smell of apricots. That's me, all for the aesthetics. If I'm honest when I first smelt it, it was a bit like strong cleaning product. However, I've asked some other people what they thought of the smell and there seems to be a unanimous 'its quite nice' opinion, so maybe that one's just me. Regardless, It's definitely a clean smell.

As its a scrub it's obviously got quite a rough, sandy texture when its in your hands which I was worried about. I have somewhat delicate skin on my face, particularly cheeks, which is also partial to redness. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how gentle this product was, it washes off easily and my skin felt super soft after. As an added bonus, my cheeks weren't any redder than before I used it. Yay! However, I would only recommend to use in the evenings 2 or 3 times a week as I've found it is pretty difficult to apply make up on after I used this product and moisturised, which is annoying.

This product specialises in clearing skin and I think it does the job. I've seen a reduction of blackheads, and in general, less oils on my face in the T zone area. I feel very refreshed after using this. 

Despite the smell I think this is a really great scrub and no wonder St Ives have claimed to be the UK's number one scrub brand. I've not used any other St Ives scrubs or face masks before, but I've definitely been swayed. I feel like there is a definite repurchase on the cards for this one!  

RRP: £4.99

Overall Score: 8/10
Repurchase? Yes