Review - Xen-Tan Perfect Bronze

So this is a very belated review of something I received a long time ago...sorry! You may remember at the end of June Xen-Tan were holding daily competitions on their facebook page and I was lucky enough to be one of the 3 winners on the first day, where a bronzer was on offer.

I have to admit I was a little sceptical of this bronzer as I've previously used Fake Bake's version which usually ended up as a bit of a sparkly mess - would another fake tan company be able to produce something better?

So I was relieved to see a much less glittery affair, and a pretty natural colour, even for my pale skin.

Xen-Tan vs Nars


I'd previously been using Nars Laguna so was keen to see how this compared. Whilst Laguna comes out quite pigmented, the Xen-Tan is much more sheer. As I am so fair it took me a while to get the knack of applying Laguna without looking too bronzed, whereas this is much easier to build up and produces a much more subtle tanned effect. This might be frustrating for those of you with darker toned skin, but I think it's ideal for anyone who wants a subtle buildable glow without looking tangoed.


Xen-Tan Perfect Bronze - right, Nars Laguna - left

All in all, this has taken pride of place in my make up bag and I will probably be pretty upset when it runs out - which brings me to the only bad point - the price! At £20.95 this is not a bargain buy but personally, if like me, you are a bronzer lover this is well worth splashing out.

Autumn Wishlist

So it's getting to that time of year where the summer stock has been relegated to the sale rail and the new season clothes have started to filter in....aka my favourite. I don't know about you but I love the change in seasons - and the clothes it brings!

So here is my first installment of the new season must haves - for when the days start to get shorter and the layers start to build up - what's on your shopping list for autumn?

1. Clog Boots

I am loving the autumnal reincarnation of the clog - and these are possibly my current favourites. If you want to hold onto your pretty summer florals simply add some 70 deniers, a chunky knit and these boots and you're done.


Boots, £90, Topshop

2. Aviator Jacket

Now this is a trend I love, but sadly don't think I can get away with. Shearling trim aviator jackets are popping up all over the high street already and look to be a sure fire hit. Again, they look great teamed with girly florals or are a perfect substitute for the classic leather biker jacket...just warmer :)


Faux fur jacket, £65, Warehouse

3. Leopard Print

This is a bit of a cheat - as I already have this bag! I struggle to resist a bit of leopard print at the best of times, and this vintage style bag, updated with the quirky tassle fastening, immediately caught my eye. Leopard print is everywhere this season, so whether it's a bag, scarf or a blouse, get in on the animal print action :)


Bag, £30, Topshop

4. The Maxi

Yep, the maxi is here to stay - just in a much simpler style, ideal for teaming with chunky boots and warm layers. I've got my eyes on a simple black jersey skirt, to pair with a leather jacket and a big scarf...for as long as my ankles can take it.


Maxi skirt, £20, Miss Selfridge

5. The Cargo Pant

Any celebrity worth their salt has been seen in J Brand's Houlihan trousers recently - however with their £200+ price tag, they are not quite as accessible to us ordinary folk. However the high street has clocked on and some great lookalikes are filtering into the shops. The perfect substitute for jeans, these trousers look as good teamed with sandals as with chunky boots. Just remember the skinny jean rule - keep proportions right - and you're onto a winner.


Cargo pants, £40, Oasis

So that's me for now...what's on your new season wish list?

(p.s. apologies for the lack of posting recently - I've had a hectic few weeks at work, teamed with my birthday and no spare time - all will be back to normal now...I promise!)