Jenna Fifi
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Inside My Makeup Bag

1. The makeup routine below is pretty much my ‘full’ day face. I wanted to show you the products I use on a daily basis but I realised that most days I miss out a few (lipstick, mascara etc.) So I decided to show you all the products I use on days where I wear the most makeup. During more casual times like walking in the park, chilling out with friends or doing errands I keep it to a minimal and wear only foundation, powder, blusher, mascara and a lip balm. I suppose this is my best day makeup for a very important event, be it a date or a job interview.
2. The makeup I use changes all the time. Since moving to London its fair to say my obsession for makeup has greatly increased. I’m now just a ten minute tube journey from stores such as Liberty, Harrods & Selfridges so beauty counters that didn’t even exist in Somerset are now well within reach. I guess I’m making the most of my new neighbours.
3. Although I use a lot of products I only use a very small amount of each; a dab of blusher here and a dab of bronzer there. I also try and keep my foundation as minimal as possible as I hate that sticky feeling you can get if you’re wearing to much product.
4. I pretty much wear the same makeup on a night out except I usually add some eye shadows or eyeliner. I always keep a small eye shadow palette in my bag just in case. With some of my classes based in Oxford Circus it’s not uncommon to head out for cocktails afterwards. A lady just has to be prepared for these things!
5. When doing a photo-shoot I wear very little makeup – if any. This is partly because I can’t be dealing with wiping makeup off my camera all the time, but also because after a very tiring day I like to rub my eyes without looking like a panda.
6. Every now and again I give mascara a rest for several days. I always get freaked out when I remove my eye makeup and see the odd eyelash on a cotton pad. I have a genuine fear of losing all of my eyelashes and ending up with bald eyes, so mascara breaks occur regularly.
7. My entire morning routine from cleansing, toning and moisturising to applying the final coat of lipstick never takes more then 20 minutes. I love my lies in far too much so I’ve taught myself to be quick.
8. I have to confess I’m a complete makeup snob and I only give designer products a chance – something I’m trying to work on. So if anyone has any cheaper alternatives drop me a comment and I’ll give them a try. After writing this I added up the cost of my products and realised I’m applying nearly £400 worth of makeup to my face. That something I need to cut back on – I’d much rather spend that on shoes!
9. Hopefully you can pick up a few tips and tricks from this post. I have to add though that I’m not a professional makeup artist and I have no idea if I’m applying/using items corretly – any MUA’s out there I apologise in advance if you spot any makeup no-nos. I’ve taught myself over a very long period of time and I’ve also picked up some very useful tips during photoshoots so thank you to the wonderful MUA’s who’ve taught me a lot.
10. As much as I love makeup, I am not controlled by it. I often go out bare faced and I think nothing of getting out the makeup removing wipes in front of friends, family and boyfriends. Makeup should be a fun, creative morning extra, not a mask that can fuel insecurities. Please remember that ladies.  
  
If you want to find out more about an item or to buy it yourself simply click on the item title. Enjoy! x

A base, or primer “primes” the skin for foundation, smoothing out the skins surface making it easier for makeup application. This feels like velvet and also creates a lovely healthy glow under my foundation. I apply this with my fingers to my entire face but focusing on the T-zone area to keep any shine to a minimum throughout the day.
2.     Suqqu frame fix foundation – £62 
Because of the price I only use this on special occasions but I really do wish I could use it all the time because it’s the best foundation I’ve ever used. I’ve tried two other foundations by Suqqu and they too have left the most flawless finish. This foundation in particular is very thick but the coverage is brilliant so only a tiny bit is needed. I apply this with my fingers instead of a brush, partly because I don’t want to lose any product on the brush, but also because you have to work it into your skin more. It’s a high price to pay given the fact the pot is so tiny but it’s a worthwhile investment.
3.     Clinique even better makeup SPF15  –  £23 
This is what I use most days and is a cheap alternative to the Suqqu foundation. One of the reasons why I like this foundation so much is because it matches my skin tone exactly. I’ve always battled with trying to find the perfect shade and this is the closest I’ve found – no more mixing foundations! Most of the time I don’t have to use concealer because this covers so much of it anyway – even with a small amount. The coverage is really good and lasts pretty much all day.  I apply this with Samantha Chapman’s Real Techniques buffing brush.

This is the best concealer I’ve ever used and thanks to MAC’s brilliant selection of shades it always blends perfectly into the rest of my makeup. Most of the time I don’t have to use this because my foundation does all the covering. But occasionally when I’ve had a breakout this becomes a lifesaver. Again you only need a little bit and I apply this with Samantha Chapman’s Real Techniques detailer brush.
This is my number one staple product. I always have a spare at home and one I keep in my bag because it really is that wonderful. I use this under my eyes to brighten my skin up and make me look less tired. It feels like air on my skin and leaves a healthy, luminescent glow. Right now YSL are selling a limited edition ’20 years collectors edition’ so if there was ever a time to get this its right now!
I have combination skin so I’ve spent years looking for a powder that controls shine whilst still feeling light on my skin. This powder does just that and I’d recommend it to anyone who has combination and even oily skin. I only use a light dusting because that’s all you need, but it never looks or feels cakey. Although its not the cheapest powder out there it lasts along time and each pot lasts me around a year! Because its loose powder I’m always careful to contain as much of it in the pot as I possibly can. I’ve learnt from carelessly opening powders and spilling them down myself! What I tend to do is open it up on a surface, lightly dab a powder brush every so slightly into the powder and then tap any excess onto the inside of the lid. This way I save powder and use a minimal amount on my face. 

I use a very light dusting of this on areas of my face that naturally catch the sun. The colour is very natural and doesn’t leave a flat finish. It’s superb quality and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
I saw this being used in a photo-shoot and was shocked when the makeup artist explained its low price. The palette contains a matte contouring powder and a highlighting powder. I have fair skin and find most contouring kits look harsh and heavy on me. However this palette looks really natural on but still does its job. I also use the highlighting powder on my nose, temples and chin to add a subtle glow.
I LOVE the NARS multiple. The cult classic comes in a variety of shades to suit all skin tones, seasons and intensity. The multiple can be used as a highlighter, lipstick and eyeshadow but I use mine as a highlighter on my cheekbones. I have four shades; Copacabana, Turks & Caicos, Orgasm and Mustique. Over the summer I’ve been using Mustique on my cheekbones to give me a warm glow but as the colder months are fast approaching I’ve started (just today actually) using Copacabana instead. It’s more of a champagne pink colour and gives a cool tone. I also use the Copacabana on my cupids bow which looks really pretty. There are several ways to apply the multiple and its worth trying a few until you find what works for you. I always apply mine after I’ve put on foundation but if you put it on under foundation the effect is more subtle – it just depends on the look you’re after. I’ve found that swiping it across my cheeks doesn’t work so instead I pat it on using my fingertips. I also use a brush to apply it like I would a normal blusher – it works just as well!
I switch between this and one of my NARS multiples. I usually use this if I’m in a rush and can’t be bothered to delicately pat my cheekbones with the NARS crème highlighter. I have to say though that despite experimenting with a range of highlighters/blushers this is easily the best on the market.  This can be used on cheeks and then follow up to the cheekbones leaving a natural, glowing finish. When I wear this I often get asked whats on my cheeks and it lasts for ages.  

I guess its no secret that DiorShow is one of the most spectacular mascaras out there. Its rose water scent gives it that little something special and it is incredibly easy to apply. I only need to coat it on in a zigzag movement a few times to get just the right amount and it lasts a long time too. Remember never pump your wand back into your mascara because it pushes air inside and dries it out.
If I’m not wearing a colour on my lips I’m wearing this. I like the thickness to it and it leaves my lips feeling soft and smooth. I use this at night as well so I wake up to luscious lips every morning .The packaging is stylish and it’s become a necessity in my handbag, I feel lost if I’ve left it at home! This is easily the best lip balm out there. I know this is going to be a lifesaver this winter when the cold takes its toll on my lips.
I haven’t actually used this as an eye shadow yet as I’m not a fan of light colours on my fair eyelids. But I do use it on my cupids bow and under the arch of my brow. I think the colour is just beautiful and it glides on smoothly as well as lasts all day!
Before London I never bothered to fill in and define my eyebrows. But after experimenting with it I don’t know how I’ve gone so long without it. I use the lightest shade on this with an Urban Decay Good Karma angled brow brush. The palette includes four matte shades so I can use a darker one to add more definition. If you do use more then one shade remember to always use the lightest colour on the inner brow and a darker colour on the outside – never the other way around. It took a lot of practice and patience to get the shape exactly how I want it but it’s worth the effort. I blend it in slightly with a blending brush once I’m done to take away the harshness and make it look more natural.
This collection comes in the prettiest colours! I don’t wear lipstick very often but when I do this is the first one I reach for. My favourite shade is nude beige but all the pinks are gorgeous. They are so creamy and feel luxurious on your lips and the colour is pigmented and lasts a long time. There’s no need to apply several layers so your lips wont feel heavy in makeup. It makes the perfect finishing touch to my look.

Thanks for reading lovelies!
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  1. Leigh-Anne Ashton
    September 9, 2012 / 10:20 pm

    I've been toying with buying a MAC concealer for a while now, I have so many high street ones and no branded ones, I think I may have to treat myself! I absolutely love Dior Show, I haven't used it in so long because of Benefit's They're Real, I'll have to reinvest ASAP! You have such a lovely make up collection 🙂 xx

    Reply
  2. Jen27
    September 10, 2012 / 8:03 am

    What a great lineup of products! Bobbi Brown Shimmerbricks, YSL Rouge Voluptes, and Diorshow mascara are among my favourites too. I'm totally intrigued by the Suqqu foundation- I know it's a bit spendy, but a stellar base is worth splurging on! Thanks for sharing 🙂

    -Jen

    http://www.vibrantbeautyblog.blogspot.com

    Reply
  14. Lauren
    September 16, 2012 / 6:25 pm

    Absolutely adore your blog !

    Definitely a new follower 🙂

    Laurenbehappy.blogspot.com

    xxx

    Reply
  16. Pretty Affairs
    September 16, 2012 / 6:25 pm

    great post! read it from the beginning to the end and discovered a new product that i would love to try (my bank account won't like it!);-) it's the Suqqu frame fix foundation – never heard of it! i guess it's sold only in Selfridges? will def try to go through some reviews on i-net 🙂 thanks for sharing.
    p.s. followed you back x

    Reply
  17. Jannie
    September 16, 2012 / 6:26 pm

    I love the contents of your makeup bag. I have Clinique's Even Better foundation too and it works pretty well. You're lucky to have found a shade in this that matches you perfectly. 🙂

    Sleek looks like it has a lot of amazing products. A brand I'd like to try someday. 🙂 Oh, yes. Definitely try out ELF one of these days. I like how it's affordable and many of its products have decent quality. I think there's a UK version of the website too. 🙂

    Thank you so much for following and visiting my blog. I followed you too. Take care. 🙂

    Reply
  18. Kasandra Nichole
    September 16, 2012 / 8:57 pm

    Thanks for checking out my blog & following!

    Love your blog! Following you back

    Reply
  20. Jenna Fifi
    September 17, 2012 / 8:14 pm

    Thank you lovely 🙂 I bought mine from Selfridges but you can get it online too – I've linked it in the title. Its expensive but so worth having, especially if you just save it for those special occasions. xx

    Reply
  21. circleofchaos
    September 17, 2012 / 11:41 pm

    Nice make-up post.:-)
    Maybe follow each other on BLOGLOVIN and GFC???
    My Blog

    Reply
  23. min
    September 18, 2012 / 4:23 pm

    i swear by the chanel loose powder. can't live without it!

    thanks for the follow, following your lovely blog back!

    xoxo

    http://www.eenieminnie.com

    Reply
  25. ADELINA ALEXANDER
    September 19, 2012 / 12:00 am

    Your eyebrows are perfection! Love your beauty blog as well! I am your new follower! Would you like to follow me back?
    xoxo

    Reply
  28. Lyosha
    September 20, 2012 / 1:37 pm

    very useful and interesting bag! I love reading about make up!

    Lyosha
    Inside and Outside Blog
    P.S. I'm your newest follower, your blog is very useful and full of information! check out my blog as well if you have time

    Reply
  31. Kate
    September 24, 2012 / 3:18 pm

    I love the Sleek Contour kit, I use it every day 🙂 lovely post x

    Reply
  32. Golden Glow
    September 24, 2012 / 3:18 pm

    Lovely post, I really want the Suqqu foundation now, you've sold me on it! haha new follower xx

    Reply
  33. Katie Frank
    September 24, 2012 / 5:55 pm

    This is very good review 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing! I just followed you <3 It's amazing blog 🙂 :*

    Reply
  36. Cat0805
    October 4, 2012 / 12:40 am

    Such an amazing post! Very detailed! You have some gorgeous product, lucky lady. Just want to let you know I love your blog, it is so pretty and sleek 😀

    OutsideBeautyInsideHealth

    Reply
  37. Nicoleta_B
    October 6, 2012 / 9:39 am

    Good evening, my dear 🙂

    Great-great post!

    We can follow each other via gfc and other chanels if u want 🙂

    Hope to see u soon.

    Kisses,

    Nicoleta

    http://www.nicoleta.me

    Reply
  38. Vanessa
    October 11, 2012 / 11:21 pm

    Jenna! You are so sweet! Have just stumbled across your blog and love it, great posts and I really love your writing style…totally know what you mean about London and all the beauty counters too! Looking forward to your next post 🙂

    Your newest follower,

    Vanessa x
    http://www.vanessaeves.com

    Pop by and follow me too sometime 🙂

    Reply
  40. BeautyByRen
    October 15, 2012 / 1:05 am

    This is Ren from Beauty By Ren… I followed back! Love your blogg! xx

    Reply
  41. Sue Lin
    October 28, 2012 / 5:11 pm

    Nice pick of products. I love Mac Studiofix too!

    Reply
  42. Sue Lin
    October 28, 2012 / 5:11 pm

    Love your list of foundations and concealers. I swear by Mac's studio fix too, pretty awesome concealer with spf!

    Reply

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Hello, fancy seeing you here!

I’m Jenna! A photographer, stylist and recipe developer constantly seeking and sharing life’s little tonics. Here is where I share delicious, sparkly stories from Somerset, with my rescue dogs in tow.

In short, I’m usually behind a lens, eat a lot and often lose 4G.

Jenna Fifi is where you’ll find everything from indulgent recipes and hotel reviews to skincare recommendations and interiors inspiration. Life natters are complimentary. It’s a varied mix of late-20s souvenirs, the best bits of course, all jumbled together and served with a sprinkling of humour and a slice of the bright side.

This space is made to be rummaged through, and I hope you find something that leaves you full with life lustre, rippling ideas and hungry for cake and beyond.

So pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink and don’t forget to say hello! 😊

Jenna x

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