“Look It Up…Slayer, Comma, The”

We all know a vampire groupie when we see one. They have been paraded on our television screens for decades and these women have every right to be. Not only are they talented actresses, but they are also responsible for having iconic looks that set the trend for thousands of teenage girls around the world.

We all want to be seen as the down to earth but special Isabella Swan, with her dark chocolate eyes and naturally healthy glow, who wouldn’t want to look like her?

The original vampire groupie title, or should I say “vampire slayer” belongs to Miss. Buffy Summers. The sitcom “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, was first aired in 1998 and became an international phenomenon with young teenage girls dying to have a vampire boyfriend like Buffy’s. Portrayed by Sarah Michelle Geller, Buffy had many different make up looks over the seven seasons it was aired for.

The most well-known make up look for the series is from season two. Using smokey chocolate eye shadows and nude lipsticks helped create a beautiful look.

Before you start with this look, you have to remember the key elements before applying your foundation. This face make up, is matte. There is no experimentation with typical American sitcoms, so the main characters are made to look as flawless as possible. To help achieve Miss. Summer’s airbrushed looking skin, first gently apply a face primer or moisturiser all over the neck and face. Be careful around the eye area, as this is the most delicate part of the face.

A face primer will help set any foundation to the skin and will help products apply more evenly. Luckily, Superdrug has a large range of products that are there to help when you feel like changing your look. L’Oreal is renowned for their skin primers; we sell their newest Studio Secrets collection for £10.29.

Now it’s time for foundation, as mentioned before, matte is the type of foundation that should be used to achieve this look. The quality of how foundation looks on your skin, all depends on the way you apply it.

Using a foundation brush is a quicker and easier way to apply your foundation. Once this is done, allow the foundation to set onto the skin then skip applying concealer for now. Brush matte powder over the t-

zone and eye lids to set all the products so far and get an angled blusher brush.

The reason why an angled blusher brush is specific is because the blusher powder applies itself to the cheek bones more accurately. Don’t use a cream blusher for this look, as there is no shine or gloss products to Buffy’s make-up. Bourjois has a perfect range of matte blushers that create a defined yet subtle colouring to the cheeks.

We’re almost done with the skin! Apply some bronzer on each side of the nose to create a slimmer appearance. Sarah Michelle Geller’s nose is naturally petite and defined. GOSH sells a range of bronzers that are perfect for your cheeks as well as for contouring. Exclusively sold at Superdrug, there fantastic range of cosmetics allow you to get the look you want but without breaking your budget.

Now for the eyes, this is the most important part for this specific look. For the first season, Buffy’s make up was based on very earth coloured tones. Season two changed dramatically with gold and brown smokey eyes.

To start with, apply L’Oreal Studio Secrets eye primer all over the eye lids. Like the face primer, this will specifically hold the eye shadow to your skin. Get a flat sided eye shadow brush and apply a matte nude coloured shadow all over the eye area. Focus more on the brow bone, because other eye shadows will be going over the eye socket.

Buffy has no glitter or shimmery tones of highlighting on her brow bone. They are kept as neutral as possible. Once the nude shade has been applied to the eye area, select a dark bronze eye shadow. Accessorise have just released their own brand of cosmetics in Superdrug and their eye shadows are exactly what you need to create your eye shadow base.

The final step in creating this vampire fan girl look is to get a matte black eye shadow and gently blend it in the outer corner of the eyes. Use the shadow sparingly, as we don’t want to make the black the main colour with this look. Barry M does an amazing range of colours that will really make this transformation complete.

Skip eyeliner for this look, because we want a “doe eyed” effect that gives the illusion of bigger eyes. As you can see from the pictures, Buffy does not have any dark eye liner on her waterline. Using a brow brush, gently pat the Illusion bronze eye shadow on the bottom lash line. This will make your eyes appear more defined.

Next, apply many coats of mascara to your lashes. The best mascara for this look, needs to add length and volume but without any clumps from the liquid. L’Oreals newest mascara, Volume Million Lashes should be in every girls make up bag. Not only does this mascara create length and definition, but it ensures your lashes stay clump free.

Although this look is very glamorous, we can skip the step of adding false lashes. If we want to stay true to the vampire heroine look, sticking to lengthening mascara is best.

Using a eye brow pencil that matches your skin tone, gently fill in your brows to create more definition to your face. Your eyebrows are most important feature because they help frame and balance your face.

To stay true to Buffy Summer’s character, apply a nude peach lipstick that warms up the face, rather than using any harsh shades. L’Oreals collection of “Made for me” lipsticks, are specifically designed to match and compliment your skin tone.

Then voila! You are all finished with your vampire slayer inspired look. If you wanted to go in the more “damsel in distress” Bella Swan route, then completely skip any smokey bronze eye shadows and keep your eye lids nude. Superdrug’s range of high quality products are here to help you create the latest looks that are inspired by your favourite celebrities, films or even music videos.

Make sure you grab next weeks issue of Superdrug’s Dare to see the latest tips and tricks that can help you create your look!

Designing your nursery: The basics

Mothercare has been here for over 50 years providing generations of families with the products they need to help raise their young children. From cribs to stuffed teddies, there is nothing that Mothercare can't provide, to help make your house a loving home.

When it comes to making a nursery room, there is no strict rule book, you have the freedom to be as creative as you like for your new born child. Whether you have a beautiful baby girl or boy, Mothercare has everything you need to help you make a safe and loving nursery for your children.

With upcoming baby showers and presents being sent to you already, now is the perfect time to get planning on how you want your baby room to look. The key things to remember when designing it is to make it fun, safe and comfortable for your new born baby. There are so many options to consider and with our latest Mothercare range, shopping for supplies has never been made so simple.

The first thing to remember is a nursery is not a necessity for everyone, buying a crib for your own personal bed room is a popular idea used by parents as they feel more comfortable having their baby sleep near them. The key is to do what you feel more comfortable with and to see a nursery as the starting point for your new born child. This room will develop dramatically over the years and this is the starting point that you will remember the most.

The key is to be prepared with bed arrangements first so you don't have to panic after you bring your new born home. Mothercare sell a pure white crib for £39.99 that is perfect as a basic bed, no matter what the sex of the baby is. If you are unsure of what main colour you want the décor to be, sticking to a neutral colour is perfect for keeping things simple and classic, you can easily develop the room over time. Bedding is the next thing that should

If you are expecting a baby girl, you have the perfect chance to make a fairytale nursery come to life. Using baby pinks and creams as the colour palette, you can also have the aid of Disney's favourite princesses to complete this look. With our range of curtain's and bed sheet's starting from £14.99, Mothercare can make your fairytale a reality.

Don't have time to shop? With our delivery services, we can deliver to your door in the next 24 hours without any delay. If that wasn't enough, we now have a selection of nursery furniture already matched and designed to help you create a perfect room for your child. It's simple and fast without you having to stress or worry about finding everything you need.

Once you have chosen the main furniture, now it's time to personalise it! We have hundreds of fabric designs to help match your items. Whether you need curtains or quilts, we have matching sets to add that special touch to your nursery. Winnie the Pooh Tab-Top Curtains are available in baby blue or baby yellow for only £49.99 You can be as creative as you like when it comes to the layout of your nursery and you can check out our official website of nursery photos for inspiration.

Although it is new and exciting when creating your first nursery, safety is often forgotten in the process. Making sure your child is safe and secure in their own room while your asleep is the most important thing to remember.

The amount of accidents that could have been prevented by simply baby proofing the room are incredible. Luckily, Mothercare has a range of products that covers all different safety precautions to prevent and accidents so you can sleep well without worrying.

The most important safety precaution to use a gate to make sure there are no tiny babies roaming around the house. This pine gate is easy and effective to use and goes perfectly with any furniture setting.

One of our top tips at Mothercare, is to always get your someone to look at the nursery for any areas that they think could be a hazard. Simple things like plug socket covers are often forgotten but is the

most common danger. We sell a 12 pack for only £6.99 in a variety of colours to match any colour scheme and are incredibly easy to use.

Once you have all of these simple, yet cost effective items you are ready to embrace the joys of raising your child in the nursery you designed yourself. As time goes by, you can develop the nursery by adding different style beds and colour schemes. Remember to enjoy this chance to design the nursery of your dreams and to get really creative with the space you have.

END

Confessions of a Shopaholic

Okay ladies, forget about last summer’s specific & predictable trends, this year anything goes. That’s right, every summer trend you can think of, is making it to the catwalk. Whether it’s tribal print maxi dresses or bright coloured playsuits, there is now a summer trend that will suit you.

With the help of USC’s Sales Advisor, Bhawandip Rai, you can get the inside scoop of how this season is breaking all the rules. Whether your body type is boyish, pear, or if you just adore or detest tribal, there will be a summer trend out there for you.

Variety is the key trend this season, with many different summer trends all combining together for this year.

Now we all know how hectic your schedule can get, with balancing work, children and taking care of the house all at the same time. While all of this is happening, you still have to manage to get out the door wearing something that doesn’t show you stayed up all of last night trying to clean the kitchen…

That why this summer collection has taken everyone by surprise. The flexibility and variety of trends have made everything simpler for you to find something to wear. This doesn’t just apply for wearing something you can run to Tesco’s with; there is something to cater to anything. Whether you’re at work or even going out for a girl’s night, there are easy ways to wear this summer’s season.

Now where to start on telling you about this life saver of a season, all begins with maxi dresses. Yes, I hear what you’re saying…“I’ve tried maxi dresses…I couldn’t stand the bright colours”.

Well, prepare to be dazzled when I tell you, that there are now many different patterns that are being combined with the maxi dress. Such as tribal, navy, nudes, floral and even patterns inspired by the beautiful Asia. Now, how much more variety can you get than this!

For applying this summer to your work wardrobe, don’t be afraid of wearing maxi dresses. That’s right, depending on the style, maxi dresses are perfect for work. Depending on your dress code for work, wearing a simple black maxi dress with a fitted blazer and a belt will make you scream professionalism and class without having to feel uncomfortable all day.

So what are you waiting for? ASOS and River Island have an amazing collection that is dying to be worn. Remember, accessories are also necessary in creating a look for a certain event.

For example, you wouldn’t exactly wear stiletto heels to watch your son play football. Wearing casual sandals complemented with a cropped denim jacket is perfect for dressing a maxi dress down and won’t make your son “forget” to tell you when his next match is…

Okay, we’ve got the maxi dresses down, but how about floral skirts? This look isn’t for everyone, but a fitted floral skirt is perfect for any upcoming dates you might have.

Nothing looks better than walking home and holding hands with your date where he can’t take his eyes off you. After all girls, you have to make a lasting impression that will keep him star struck. What better way to do this, than to show a hint of your curves with a fitted floral print skirt and a fitted, quarter length sleeved, blazer.

Classy, yet with a hint of romance, this outfit will make him like putty in your hands.

Karen Millen does a beautiful range of floral skirts, ranging from £40 to £100 and with the beautiful fabric used, what’s not to love!

Now, back to the basics if layering clothes is a bit out of your comfort zone, you’ll definitely be interested in Marks and Spencer’s nude coloured dresses. They are beautifully chic, with flattering cream and peach tones that are perfect for any occasion. Best of all, you could wear these fitted dresses to anything. Work, lunch dates, picking up the children from school or even washing the dishes.

Remember what we said before: how you customise a dress, all depends on accessorises you use.

For a relaxed shopping look, add tie up wedges and over-sized sunglasses to help make this look casual yet chic. Adding a few chunky tribal bracelet’s will help add an edge to the nude tones of the dress, making you subtly stand out without being too dramatic.

1. What are the main trends for this summer?

There are many different trends this summer all appearing at once. Usually a one main trend is the key attraction each season, but this year everything is more versatile. For the stock we’ve had in this month, there has been a range of trends delivered. Such as: tribal, navy, cut out, block colours, neutrals, military and pastels.

2. How are they different from last season?

Apart from there being more than one main trend than last season, this season high wasted shorts and maxi dresses are becoming very popular with customers. Blouses in light pastel colours such as pale pink and coral are constantly being sold out.

3. Is there usually a main trend that always reappears each year?

Tribal is definitely a popular trend in USC. For summer trends in general, tribal is always the most common one that is represented for this particular season. I think it’s because it does remind everyone of summer because it’s based on the elements of the jungle.

4. How would you describe the style of clothing?

I guess you could say that tribal is wild and sexy but the pastel trend is more reserved and feminine. I think that’s why the summer

trends are the most noticeable because they make such a variety of statements when you wear them.

5. Why are trends in the summer, much more distinctive than in the winter?

I think it’s because there is more variety in the summer. You can wear dresses, shorts and bright colours but in the winter, you have to think of layering your clothes and this can make an outfit less distinctive for a particular trend.

6. What is a trend that suits any body shape?

Maxi dresses are perfect for any body type because they flatter anyone.

7. What would you wear for this summer, if you didn't like typical bright colours?

For women who didn’t like bright colours I would definitely have to go with neutrals. They are the most simplistic yet stylish trend this season. It is very chic yet glamorous because a lot of celebrities are always seen wearing nude tones.

8. How is USC different with summer trends, compared to new look or Primark?

USC is definitely more into designer brands like Diesel or Firetrap which is inspired from the catwalks. Primark and New Look don’t sell any major designer brands like USC.

9. What will the anti fashion be this summer?

The gothic trend is definitely out this summer. Dark colours and lace are winter based trends and are too particular for this season.

Beauty and the Beast review

Everyone is familiar with the beautiful story of Beauty and the beast, the fairy tale that Walt Disney changed forever with their incredible interpretation.

Finally, this 1991 hit is released on DVD for everyone to enjoy and as soon as the film starts, you are entranced by the beautiful illustrations and soundtrack.

As the narrator delivers his monologue about the spoilt prince being turned into a beast, you can’t help but notice how similar the opening is to the original Disney master pieces. Snow White and Cinderella are classic interpretations that were highly praised for their magical scenes and characters that Beauty and the Beast highly resemble.

Once we understand that the Beast must learn to love someone and earn their love in return, we are then introduced to the lead protagonist, Belle.

When Belle’s father goes missing after he leaves for an invention exhibition, Belle has no choice but to find him. Little does she know that her father is being held prisoner at the enchanted castle by the deadly Beast. With her loving father in mind, Belle asks to swap places with him.

You then see the magic that is Disney, when you a beautiful connection between Belle and the Beast is created. You gradually see the Beast start to open up and start to care about others all because of his growing love for Belle.

Now the reason why Beauty and the Beast is a more modern take of this classic fairy tale is because of how Belle is portrayed. Let’s get one thing straight - she is no damsel in distress.

She’s intelligent, independent and best of all, she believes in the beauty of a person’s personality. Not what their appearance looks like. This film is the perfect opportunity to show children this belief and what better way than to do it, than by Disney style. With hilarious characters and delightful musical numbers, Beauty and the Beast should definitely be on every child’s wish list.

As well as telling an important message throughout the film, it also allows you to relate to the characters and really start to feel for them.

To still keep the film fun for children, the servants of the Beast (who were transformed into house objects), provide much humour and laughter to film and are amazingly voiced.

Overall, Beauty and the Beast is definitely a film that should not be missed. It will belong in the Disney classics for generations and is enjoyable at any age. Touching, heartfelt and inspiring are definitely words to describe this 1991 master piece.

New Year, New You

It’s never too late to change your lifestyle, whether you want to tone up or change your diet, this issue will help set you on the right track to getting the figure you want.

There are many benefits from doing yoga as well it improving your posture yoga can help your coordination, balance and strength. There is no excuse to not give your body a fresh start and improve your lifestyle with this how- to guide.

Not every exercise you do has to be vigorous and painful, practising yoga is relaxing but still effective at the same time. Many celebrities are known for be avid yoga fans, including Victoria Secret angel Miranda Kerr, Kim Kardashian, Madonna, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

The key to yoga is to understand that perfecting this ancient art takes time and patience in learning your own body and its ability to adjust to new positions and movements. Not only is yoga an acquired sport, it has been passed down from generations as an ancient healing tool not just for the body, but also for the mind and soul. Everyone can benefit from yoga, no matter what your level of flexibility or fitness may be.

Know your level:Beginner - As a beginner, everything must be taken in small steps and at a slower pace, to understand the traditions of yoga. For the first lesson of yoga, the main tool to focus on is your breathing. Many people underestimate the important of how to pace your breathing in relation to your body positions. Without learning this skill properly, it can result in straining your body and not getting the best results from learning this art. For a beginner, just taking in the surroundings and understanding the general environment related to yoga is the first step for starting a healthy lifestyle.

Intermediate – Determining what level you are at yoga does not depend on the amount of time spent practising but how quickly you pick up the positions and breathing techniques correctly. An intermediate can now practice the art of yoga comfortably and efficiently and is able to practice positions at home without the aid of a skilled yoga instructor.

Advanced – Being at an advanced level of yoga shows that you have an in depth response to the more challenging positions and can practice them without fault and as if it is second nature. They will discover the benefits of not just seeing the physical side of practising yoga, but noticing their stress levels decreased. The true spiritual healing of yoga is mastered in time and can be achieved at an advanced level.

Each issue we will focus on a detailed component from the teachings of yoga and its benefits. Ralph Harvey, 45 from London, has been practising yoga for 25 years.

“The fact that I still feel the effects from yoga after 25 years, just proves that a sport doesn’t always have to be strenuous to get the best results. I would definitely recommend anyone at any age to start doing yoga as it dramatically improves your flexibility and reflexes without being painful.”

Yoga can be practised at home or at a class taught by a professional yoga instructor, if you are a beginner, it is recommended that you should go to a class to experience it properly and to taste what the atmosphere is like. Not only that, but you will get the support and guidance that is needed when you are starting out.

Next issue will go into more positions that focus on the stomach area, but here is the position of the week, that is perfect for a beginners session:

Make sure that you use a mat to allow you exercise safely on a smooth surface, Reebok sell a selection of yoga mat's from prices starting at £12.99 from Argos.

Once your mat is placed in a spacious area, get ready to do some stretches to prepare your body for your workout session. A tip if you are doing this at home is to play soothing music in the background to help calm your body.

Although it might feel slightly daunting taking up yoga as some of the positions can appear to be quite intimidating, the benefit of yoga is you can exercise at your own pace.

Start by being on your hands and feet while bending over, this will to warm up your spine. Gently breath out while keeping your head facing downwards. Then breath in, while lengthening your spine to understand your limits for this particular position. To get the full benefits of this position, lift your heels slowly to stretch out your spine and feel the stretch on your stomach.