The Best Foundations For Pale Skin!

Now as you guys I'm sure are very well aware, I was blessed with skin so fair that I reflect the sun, blend into snow and glisten in the light. Being pale isn't so bad I guess... I mean you get a good laugh when you put your arms next to your "lack-of-tan" complaining mate's limbs and play compare the pair. But when it comes to finding the right foundation shades, now that can be a dousey and send any one of us down struggle street. However, never fear because I present to you, not just one, but 9 different solutions that are perfect us neutral/pink undertoned pale skin people!

I promise they don't look this yellow on the face, my arm is like printing paper

Alrighty let's get this show on the road! So I have ordered the foundations from least $ to most $$$ so you have a better idea at what you are looking at and the amount of money you are willing to spend.

Models Prefer Infinite Colour Foundation in Shell

Claims - "Easily blendable, this lightweight formula effortlessly creates a perfect complexion, smoothing, softening your skin whilst providing natural build able coverage. Suitable for all skin types that imparts a natural velvety finish. A colour that lasts 12 hours without shining thanks to the use of a special sponge-like polymer technology."

Consistency - A thick-ish formula however it does not feel heavy on the skin, blends nicely

Coverage - Medium (buildable), semi-matte finish

Longevity - Although I wouldn't entirely agree with the 12 hour wear, this stuff does sit beautifully on the skin for a good 8 hour shift/work/uni/school day. Touch up recommended on oily skin.

SPF? - No

Price - $16.99 from Priceline (pump sold separately)

Elle's Verdict - A solid 9/10! Perfect for the fuss-free makeup girl doesn't want to spend a fortune!

Rimmel Match Perfection Light Perfecting Radiance Foundation in 010 Light Porcelain 

Claims - "A match so perfect, it's undetectable in any light! Light perfecting radiance in a foundation that has traceless coverage and perfectly flawless skin that lasts all day."

Consistency - Very thin and runny that feels lightweight on the skin

Coverage - Light, glowy finish

Longevity - This doesn't wear as long as I would like it nor as long as it claims to unfortunately, but the lightweight and hydrating formula makes it a great foundation for the cooler months/drier skin types.

SPF? - Yes, SPF 18

Price - $16.95

Elle's Verdict - 7/10

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation in 010 Light Porcelain

Claims - "Instant perfect coverage that feels extra comfortable and lasts all day. Blends flawlessly, seamlessly, instantly and easily into the skin. Sweat, heat, humidity and transfer proof for up to 25 hours."

Consistency - A thicker formula than the Match Perfection, but not gluggy

Coverage - Medium (buildable), semi-matte finish

Longevity - Much more long wearing than the Match Perfection, however can become a little patchy on oilier areas throughout day

SPF? - Yes, SPF 20

Price - $17.95

Elle's Verdict - 7/10

L'oreal True Match Foundation in R1 Rose Ivory

Claims - "True Match super-blendable liquid foundation perfectly matches the colour and texture of your skin, hiding imperfections with its fine, creamy texture. The result: Flawless coverage."

Consistency - Thinner formula but great pigmentation

Coverage - Medium-full, matte finish

Longevity - Very long wearing but not at all cakey looking

SPF? - No

Price - $29.95

Elle's Verdict - 8/10! This shade of foundation unfortunately wasn't bought in Australia, but if you can get your hands on the R range, I highly recommend it!

Revlon Colorstay Foundation for Oily/Combination Skin in 110 Ivory

Claims - "Perfect coverage with a lightweight formula that won't cake, fade or rub off. Time release technology makes this specifically formulated for combination or oily skin to control oil absorption and shine. Makeup feels comfortable and wears for up to 24 hours."

Consistency -  Thicker consistency, light feeling on skin

Coverage - Medium-full, matte finish

Longevity - Very long wearing, flawless face finish

SPF? - Yes, SPF 15

Price - $34.95

Elle's Verdict - 9/10! My favourite and go-to drugstore foundation!

MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NW10

Claims - "A modern foundation that combines a natural matte finish and medium-buildable coverage. Comfortable and long-wearing: lasts for up to eight hours. Applies smoothly, builds coverage quickly and easily. Contains specially treated micronized pigments and soft-focus powders for a super-smooth look that helps minimize the appearance of imperfections. Absorbs and disperses oil."

Consistency - Thicker consistency but not too cakey looking

Coverage - Medium-full, matte finish (wouldn't recommend for dry skin)

Longevity - Super long wearing, go to foundation for long days/nights out!

SPF? - Yes, SPF 15

Price - $49.00

Elle's Verdict - 9/10

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Siberia or Mont Blanc

Claims - "An artistry favourite backstage at Fashion Week, this silky liquid foundation delivers immediate hydration, evens skin tone and leaves the skin brighter and more radiant. Used daily, your skin's texture and tone improves becoming softer, smoother and more luminous. Sheer Glow Foundation provides all-day weightless and buildable coverage, with a natural radiant finish."


Consistency - A thin consistency with fantastic pigmentation

Coverage - Medium-full, glowy/natural finish

Longevity - Extremely long wearing, touch ups needed for combo/oily skin

SPF? - No

Price - $59.00

Elle's Verdict - 10/10! This stuff is incredible and my HG foundation! So beautiful on the skin!

By Terry Cover Expert Foundation in 1 Fair Beige

Claims - "An iconic liquid foundation that delivers velvety, matte results and reveals a naturally unified, radiant complexion. Incorporating futuristic camouflage technology and colour-corrective properties, this full-coverage foundation works to even out skin tone and diffuse light across the face. Imperfections and signs of fatigue are instantly camouflaged without "thickness" or a masking effect."

Consistency - Very light weight but delivers excellent coverage

Coverage - Medium-full coverage, matte finish with a glow from within

Longevity - Very long wearing!

SPF? - No

Price - $89.00

Elle's Verdict - 9/10! Definitely an investment, but so worth it! A stunning foundation.



Hope you enjoyed this post and be sure to check out my video on YouTube for more in-depth information on each of the foundations and a better look at the consistencies/colours of the shades. Be sure to let me down below if you would like to see a "pale skin series" of my favourite powders, concealers, contour/highlight powders, nude lipsticks, you name it!


Much love and stay gorgeous,
xx Elle

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Hauling It | HUGE MAC Hong Kong Haul

Hello my lovelies!

Due to my Hong Kong Haul being so so large, I had to split it into two parts! This video is all of the MAC cosmetics stuff that I bought whilst I was away and boy did I blow a hole in my wallet!

Be sure to check out the video HERE to see what I bought and if you liked what you saw, give a little lovin' to that SUBSCRIBE button!


Much love,
Elle xx

Tutorial | Brown Smokey Eye | Everyday Make Up Routine!

Today on Once Upon A Beauty Time I have for you my Everyday Make Up Tutorial which is a soft brown smokey eye featuring winged liner and a nice pink lip!

This look was very requested and I am so happy to share the products that I love for my face on a daily basis with you!


Products Used:
- Models Prefer Perfect Canvas Mattifying Primer
- Rimmel Match Perfection Foundation in 010 Light Porcelain
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in Brightening
- Maybelline Super Stay 24H Concealer in Light
- Face of Australia Loose Translucent Powder
- NYX Blush in Taupe
- Essence Silky Touch Blush in 10 Adorable
- Models Prefer Brown Kit in Light
- Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Barely Branded
- Maybelline Big Eyes Quad in Luminous Brown
- Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner
- L'oreal Volume Million Lashes Mascara
- Covergirl Clump Crusher Mascara
- Rimmel Kate Moss Matte Lipstick in 103

Be sure to check out the video below or HERE, give it a LIKE if you enjoyed it and why not click that SUBSCRIBE button if you thought it was super whiz bang and want to see more videos!





Much love and sunshine,
Elle xx

The Cheapest Makeup In Australia?! | ft. BOE Beauty!

Hello my lovelies!


Today I bring to you a very exciting post and video about the cheapest and most affordable makeup on the market for us Australian's!

If you live in Aus, then you would know that cosmetics are ridiculously overpriced and expensive BUT, I bring jolly good news! Big W's has started their own makeup brand called BOE Beauty and everything is only $2! That's $2 for a mascara, a lipstick, powder, blush, you name it!!!

With an incredibly appealing price tag, I knew I just had to pick up pretty much one of everything and let you guys know what is the bomb diggedy!


Make sure you watch my YouTube video HERE, give it a THUMBS UP and hit the SUBSCRIBE button to find out my top picks!


Much love,
Elle xx

Hauling It | Priceline 40% Off All Cosmetics & Catalogue Sale!

Hello my lovelies,

Oops I did it again. Oh deary me! Things went from bad to worse (much like Brittany Spears really) in the spending department where I made a decent 3 separate trips to Priceline when they had their infamous 40% Off All Cosmetics sale just last week!

I can officially confess that I have a problem and I need therapy (that isn't the retail kind)! I spent a little way too much, but hey, 40% off doesn't come around too often! Who am I kidding! I'm not convincing anyone with my rationalising! It's official! My name is Elle and I'm completely and utterly obsessed with make up!

Be sure to watch my haul video HERE, click LIKE and hit SUBSCRIBE if you aren't already!




Anyways! Onto the damage...



First up, a product that wasn't actually on sale but when I saw the tower of shining bottles as I walked in, I immediately picked one up and threw it into my basket! It's the Garnier Micelluar Cleansing Water, an apparent dupe for the Bioderma Crealine H2O Cleanser & Make Up Remover which is, although an extremely amazing product, one that costs an arm and a leg.

The Garnier Micelluar Cleansing Water is a much more cost effective option retailing at AU$11.99 for 400mL compared to Bioderma's hefty AU$29.99 for only 250mL of product! If Garnier has done it right, it might be a new holy grail item for not just me, but beauty bloggers world wide!

Something that was on my wish list was the Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Foundation Stick in, of course, 110 Ivory. I had seen a few fellow Australian Beauty Gurus receive packages of the new Maybelline products that would be rolling out in the following months and I knew instantly that I had to try this! It seems to apply very easily and creamily and the standout feature is that it is a shade light enough for my Edward Cullen skin! *double fist pump*

Speaking of new products, I snatched myself up one of the Maybelline Eye Studio Big Eyes Light-Catching Shadow Palette in 01 Luminious Brown. All I can say is WOW. Maybelline you sure have stepped up your game with your products and continue to amaze me! The pigmentation of these eyeshadows are incredible! Look out for a review post coming in the near future for more info on this beauty!

I was so excited to get my hands on this lipstick by Maybelline in Brazen Beige which is apart of their new nudes collection in the Color Sensational range and when I swatched the lippy on the back of my hand, I thought I had hit gold and finally found the perfect nude lipstick for my pale skin. However when I came home and swiped it across my lips, I was more than disappointed. Corpse alert.

Sticking with Maybelline, I also purchased their Total Clean Express Makeup Remover due to hearing a multitude of rave reviews. I haven't been too sure about my Neutrogena Oil-free Eye Make-up Remover due to the oily-ish residue it leaves behind so I am excited to give this one a burl! 

The Maybelline Master Precise Liner. There isn't much more to say. A holy grail product and repurchase for me. This is my 4th one I believe and I know that I will continue to buy this baby 'til the day I die! 

This was an opportunity for my to try out some more Face Of Australia things, as in the past, I haven't really delved into many of their products. I ended up picking up the Face Of Australia Sheer Gloss Lip Crayon in Macaron, a gorgeous mid-toned pink lip crayon that I have heard a lot about. 

The Face Of Australia Translucent Loose Powder was also extremely high on my wish list due to the countless amount of times that I have seen Lauren Curtis on YouTube rave about it. Every Priceline I have visited in the past, it has been sold out, so when I saw this baby sitting by its lonesome on the shelves, I felt like the heavens had opened and shone a light down on me! 

I also decided to branch out and try a Face Of Australia Blush in Hello Dolly, a bright looking Barbie pink colour!



Another brand that I haven't had a lot of experience with is Models Prefer, so naturally I picked up a few of their goodies that I'd had my eye on for quite some time now. 

One of these products was the Models Prefer Infinite Colour Foundation in Shell, one of the lightest coloured foundations that I have ever come across in the drugstore/Priceline! I cannot wait to try this and see how it works with my combination skin as I find my Revlon Colorstay Foundation in Ivory is the slightest bit too dark for me nowadays. 

Something else that I had been eyeing up was the Models Prefer Essential Brow Kit in Light/Medium. From the picture on the back of the box, this looked to be the perfect tone of ashy-brown to fill in my brows which is why I flung this bad boy into my basket in the 40% off Priceline rush. However, when I got home and opened it up, I was a little disheartened to see that the wax and powder are in fact much more of a warm toned brown. Still, I have not yet tried it on my brows and am excited mainly for the tinted wax! We shall see how it pans out!

This is a definite "YouTube Made Me Do It" moment! Ash from AshleighGreenStyle on YouTube recently hauled this primer and loved it and I simply knew that I had to get my hands on it! The Models Prefer Perfect Canvas Mattifying Face Primer promises good things to me and I look forward to seeing how it competes with my trusty Face Of Australia Face Base Primer.

I have heard absolutely wonderful things about the Essence Silky Touch Blush in 10 Adorable and I knew that at some point I had to pick up the beautiful light pink shade and add it to my collection. I remember walking past the Essence counter and it reminded me to stop by, as with 40% off, the prices of this beauty just kept going down! 

Another favourited product amongst Aussie beauty vloggers/bloggers is the Essence I <3 Extreme Crazy Volume Mascara! I have a very serious addiction to mascaras and am still on the hunt for the perfect combination of longevity, volumising, lengthening and anti-smudging. Maybe this will be the one...

I have heard great things about this product also, the L'oreal Base Magique Transforming Smoothing Primer which without this 40% off, I would never have been able to justify purchasing it! It's quite a small, compact little number and the primer itself is a light pink, mousse-y type texture. 

These Australis Velourlips Matte Lip Cream's have hit BIG time in the beauty community and I finally decided that it was time to get on the bandwagon! I picked up the red one called Ny-cee and apparently it is a dupe for the Lime Crime Velvetine Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet however I cannot confirm this. It is quite a drying formulation and can start to flake away unattractively after a while, but I'm willing to give this baby another shot! 

This Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick in 330 Sloane's Plum is absolutely gorgeous! I have never before tried lipsticks from this range and I can honestly say that I regret that so much! The formula is so smooth and moisturising (as the name suggests) and they apply like a dream! The colour, a rich burgundy plum is to die for and is looking to be a very convincing contender as my fav A/W lippy!

The Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder in 001 Transparent is a holy grail item for me and after I recently hit pan on my existing one, I knew that I had to purchase a back up! Finely milled, translucent and keeps my makeup staying all day. It's a true winner. 

Another gorgeous A/W themed lippy that I purchased was the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in 663 Va Va Violet! It is this gorgeous, very dark purple colour that I am so keen to rock ASAP! I love the uber chic and luxurious packaging of the Revlon lipsticks and their formulation is spot on!

I am currently jumping up and down in my seat with excitement that I own now two Indeed Laboratories products! I have heard incredible things and so when Priceline had 30% off selected products, I knew that I had to take advantage of it and purchase the Indeed Laboratories Eysilix Instant Eye Rescue! I am currently searching and trialling out different eye creams/serums and I have my fingers crossed that this will make a difference to my dark under eye circles and bags! 

Another product that was on special for 30% off at Priceline in this months catalogue was the Indeed Laboratories Hydraluron Moisture Booster and it's safe to say that I am just as excited to have this in my procession. I know so many people that have raved about this product and the differences they not only see but also feel in their skin when they use this. I have very high hopes!

The Toni & Guy Creative Extreme Hold Hairspray was also significantly marked down in price, from AU$15.99 to AU$5.00 and I thought what better opportunity than that to try out a new product! I quite enjoy Toni & Guy products, owning the Toni & Guy Casual Texturising Sea Salt Spray, Toni & Guy Creative Texturising Glue and the Toni & Guy Casual Sculpting Powder. It will be interesting to see how this holds up (aye aye! I'm full of puns today!) 

And finally, the last product that I purchased was the Tresemme Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray. I loved my recently finished Tresemme Thermal Styling Heat Spray so when I saw this on the shelves for ½ price, I couldn't resist! I can't wait to see how this goes in comparison.

Phewwwww! That was a long one! If you are still here and reading away, be sure to comment down below telling me what you bought in the Priceline 40% sale! I would love to hear!

Lots of love and keep smiling,

Elle xo

Monthly Favourites | February '14

Hello my lovelies!

Make sure you SUBSCRIBE and click HERE to find out what my favourite beauty, fashion and lifestyle things were for February!


LUSH /// Angels On Bare Skin Cleanser
A new staple to my morning skincare routine! It is unlike anything I have ever used before in terms of how you apply it to the face, but nonetheless I absolutely love using this cleanser when I wake up in the morning. It is so refreshing and calming to the skin!


MAC /// Pro Longwear Concealer in NW15
Another new product to fall in my hands in the month of February and it has quickly become a holy grail item in my make up routine. An amazing concealer that is hydrating under the eyes and gives incredible coverage on both blemishes and hiding those peaking dark circles!


MAYBELLINE /// Fit Me Pressed Powder in 115 Ivory
I've been loving this powder on days where I have been wearing only a BB cream or merely concealer to provide me with a little extra coverage all over. It is the lightest pressed powder that I have ever come across and it's perfect for my pale skin!


CHI CHI /// Blush (from Glamorous Make Up Collection Set)
A gorgeous every day shade that is such a natural pink colour with a slight shimmer that leaves my cheeks flushes and glowy all in one! Multi-purpose products are always a winner in my books!


MAYBELLINE /// Mega Plush Mascara in Black
This is a great mascara that leaves lashes fluttery and natural looking, perfect for going back to uni where I still want a little bit of definition but nothing too overwhelming, spidery or clumpy.


REVLON /// Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Honey
I am a lover of these lip stains and I find that Honey is a perfect, 'my lips but better' shade. It lasts and wears really well on the lips, leaving a slight minty feeling. I love that it's retractable and has sturdy packaging.


KIKKI-K /// Mint 2014 Diary 
I fell in love with this planner the day it came out on the kikki-k website and knew that I had to have my hot little hands on it ready for university this year. It feels lovely in the hands, has a handy elastic bit to keep the diary from opening and the space for each day to write things in is wonderful!


LORDE /// Pure Heroine Album
I have to be honest, I didn't actually warm to miss Lorde when she hit big time with her single 'Royals' but with an open mind one day, I downloaded the album and since then, it has been on repeat! My favourite songs would have to be 'Glory And Gore' and 'Tennis Court'.


GLASSHOUSE /// Tahaa Vanilla Caramel Hand Creme
If you know me in person, then you will most probably know that along with coconut, vanilla and caramel are my favourites scents and flavours of things. My amazing best friend bought this beauty for me for Valentine's Day and I have been using it every day since then! Leaves my hands so soft and moisturised and of course, smelling divine!


SPORTSGIRL /// Black 'Texas Bucket Bag' 
This has been my go-to bag this month! This little gem somehow manages to fit the hole kitchen sink in there and is a great compact size for days when I'm not lugging around my big heavy bag for uni. I love the gold detailing and hardware and the iconic drawstring feature is great!



Hope you are all having a wonderful day!

Lots of love,
Elle xo

Tutorial | Purple Smokey Eye | Valentines Day Look

Hello my lovelies!

Hope you are all well and planning your outfits for Valentine's Day next week! Love is in the air, I can just feel it! If you need a little inspiration for make up for the big, special day then look no further, Elle is here to save the day!

I have a new video today, a purple smokey eye that is just perfect for Valentine's Day whether you are going on a lovely date with a special someone or spending it with your gal pals!

Make sure you click HERE to watch my video on my YouTube channel, onceuponabeautytime and hit the LIKE and SUBSCRIBE button if you aren't already!


Lots of love and hugs,
Elle xo

Back To School Mini Series | 'No Makeup' Makeup Look

Hello my lovelies!


Today's video is a 'No Makeup' Makeup tutorial that is perfect if you are going back to school this year or just want a look that is fresh, youthful and beautiful!

Be sure to watch my video here, give it a superdooper double thumbs up and hit the SUBSCRIBE button if you are feeling extra fancy!

PRODUCTS USED:
- FOA Face Base Primer
- Maybelline Super Stay 24 Hour Concealer in Ivory
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in Brightening
- Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in Fair (15)
- Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent (001)
- Rimmel Match Perfection Blush in Medium (003)
- NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder in Taupe
- Essence Clear Lash & Brow Gel
- Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara
- Australis Makeup Finishing Spritz


Thank you so much for watching and may 2014 be filled with happiness and success for you all!



Much love,
Elle xo