This year I am trying something new...wait for it...wait. Are you on the edge of your seat? Probably not but I am packing light. Here is what I have taken on holiday with me and why!


A quick glance at my base products, first of all we have Urban Decay Naked Skin Bronzing Beauty Balm - admittedly I am not the biggest fan of this product but I do think it will come in handy as I start to tan. It can be used as a primer, tinted moisturiser of sorts or to even out tan lines. My "real" base product is Benefit Big Easy which is a liquid to powder creamy foundation. I say foundation really this is more of a tinted moisturiser as the coverage is pretty light, the fact it offers oil control is the real reason I have packed it. Daily even in the UK I use Estee Lauder Day Wear SPF to shield my skin and this trip will be no different. Lastly I have packed Urban Decay De-Slick Oil Control Make Up Setting Spray which is more for the evenings - Florida can be rather humid as many will know.


Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer has been stashed in my make-up bag as it can be used to warm up my skin tone, contour or even as  blush. As it is so huge it can also be used on the body - tan lines seem to be the bane of most of my trips abroad. My setting powder needs will be delivered by MAC MSF Natural - a light, almost weightless pressed powder that should do well in the balmy conditions. I'm not really looking for the perfect matte finish rather something that will keep my oily t-zone under control. Every tan needs a coral blush which is why I have chosen Essence Blush Up blush, cheap, cheerful and really pigmented. Does a girl really need more?


My summer nail colour has been Chanel Orange Fizz Nail Lacquer and since I am ditching rainy Scotland for two weeks I thought it was only fair to give it an extended run. A bright, light creamy coral that looks wonderful with a tan and goes with just about everything. If I am entirely honest with myself I know for a fact that I will be an oily mess for two weeks and the heat will melt off the vast majority of my make-up. Everything that is other than my brows thanks to Tarte Amazon Clay Brow Mousse - this stuff is heat, sweat and rain proof making it perfect for Florida. To keep my lips hydrated and soft I have packed Lanolips Lemonaide which more than does the job and smells great to boot! Lastly a tube of mascara (literally the first that came to hand) and a suit all occasions nude lipstick which happens to be Maybelline's Color Drama Intense Velvet Lip Pencil in Nude Perfection 

Tah-dah one lighter than light make-up bag!