25 Apr 2012
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Eyebrows are completely in fashion right now. That may sound a bit strange; they were always there - making a statement on your face. But now, more than ever - groomed, perfect shaped eyebrows are bang on trend and it seems the bigger and stronger the better!
But it's hard to get your eyebrows perfect, especially when they don't naturally arch the way you want them to, and our DIY plucking and the occasional wax doesn't necessarily work the wonders you're hoping for. Eyebrows frame our face but over-plucked, untamed or wild brows aren't a great look and can completely upset the balance of our facial features.
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Fashion & Beauty
22 Mar 2012
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It's no secret I'm a fan of Rockstar Tan (you might remember my blog post last year on the gorgeous stuff! Click Here) and it's coming to that time of year again that I'm dying to get into my flat pre-summer shoes and looking for any excuse to leave my jacket at home. So it also means I have less excuses to have my pale milk-bottle arms and legs hidden under my winter wardrobe.
So as we all prepare for the next step in our wardrobes for Spring/Summer 2012, Rockstar Tan have decided to help us along a little and have pandered to our poor little beauty budgets by lowering their prices. Yup, that's right, they've reduced their price tags to make them more accessible and more affordable. How nice!
Since the beginning of this month, the award winning Irish tanning brand have lowered their prices across their wide range of products, meaning that the recent 2% VAT increase will not affect the price of the natural, organic tanning products.
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Fashion & Beauty
07 Mar 2012
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Spring is - dare I say it - in the air and with the glimmer of good weather finally on the horizon, however faint it may be, I can't help but get my hopes up for the impending happy season ahead.
Winter can be harsh on your skin, and despite the fact it wasn't the toughest season we've ever encountered, our poor skin was still victim to the extreme temperatures that come with it. The winter can wreak havoc on our skin causing dryness, chapping, windburn and more and I think it's safe to say we're all in need of some serious TLC.
So what better way to treat yourself for surviving another Irish winter than to take a trip to Rouge beauty salon in Ranelagh, where they are offering a very special salon experience, exclusively for OnOffer beauty blog readers.
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Fashion & Beauty
01 Mar 2012
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It's not often I get out on a Tuesday evening in Dublin City so I was looking forward to my trip to Boulevard Cafe with great anticipation. I'd heard great things and was delighted when I noticed they accepted the Hi Life Card.
The extended and warmer evenings in Dublin seemed to have crept up on us out of nowhere but I for one will not be complaining. I always seem to underestimate the walk from the ocean side of the quays to the Grafton Street area so by the time we reached the exchequer street destination we had both built up an appetite.
The restaurant did not seem bust when we entered but the waiter welcomed us with a friendly smile. We were seated near the window and presented with the menus. We both chuckled how the Hi-Life Card allowed us to choose items we would not normally consider. I chose the Tiger prawns marinated in sweet chilli oil, coriander, and mango salsa. My partner opted for Salmon filled with cream cheese and chive and vinaigrette salad. For the mains we both chose a 8 oz Fillet Steak, home cut fries, sauté mushroom and onions and pepper sauce! Prices at €26, we anticipated something special and we were not dissatisfied!
The starter portions were beautifully presented and not too filling. Both fish servings had amazing flavour and left us craving our mains. The steaks, both ordered to medium were cooked to perfection. The fries were perfectly crafted and presented in a tidy bread basket. The pepper sauce servings seemed to be ideal sauce with the portion drying up with the very last cheap. Perhaps this was just the experience of an experienced steak lover.
When the mains were removed from the table we sat and chatted for a quarter of an hour and planned the journey home. We questioned why nobody had offered a dessert menu when we seen the waiter marching in our direction with a variety of cakes on a tray held above his head. This I had not seen before. He explained the various options and I went for the toffee cake and my partner chose death by chocolate. I really liked knowing what I was going to receive prior to it being placed on my table. The portions were very generous and left us very satisfied with the experience in Boulevard Cafe.
The total cost for the meal was just €41.50! We received a saving of €41.50 with the Hi Life Card!
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Hi Life Card
14 Feb 2012
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For anyone who is a fan of fluttering their luscious lashes, and it's their false ones I'm talking about, then you'll be delighted to hear that Eylure, the eyelash extraordinaire, are spoiling us with yet another lash icon and this time it's none other than pop diva, Ms. Katy Perry.
For those who saw her strutting her stuff along the O2 stage in Dublin last year, and yes I was there front row (try third from the back), you'll know that Hello Kitty fan Katy didn't play shy when it came to her fashion and make-up. Her envy-inducing sparkly outfits, multi-coloured locks and bright, colourful eye shadows were outworn by the volume of her amazing eyelashes! And now, we have the chance to add some Perry flavour to our make-up bags too!
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Fashion & Beauty
11 Jan 2012
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No year is new without the trusty tradition of making resolutions (and occasionally sticking to them - at least for a little while). And following the festive season and all the calorie-coated treats it brought with it, detoxing and losing ‘a few pounds' seems to be top of most resolution lists.
So to help kick-start the New Year and to help gear you up to take on 2012, Tesco has just launched its exclusive Kelly Holmes Fitness Range and is already offering some great savings!
The double Olympic Gold winner has collaborated with Tesco to design a range of quality sports clothing and equipment which includes exercise essentials perfect for those keen to bypass the gym membership and work out at home.
The equipment range includes the popular Kelly Holmes Weighted Gym Ball now just €13.33 (normally €20) and the Kelly Holmes Exercise Mat, €14.67 (normally €22). The versatile Kelly Holmes Adjustable Kettle Bell now just €23.33 (normally €35) will provide you with a total body workout and for those hoping to achieve that ‘washboard stomach', the Kelly Holmes Balance Board at just €18.33 (normally €27.50) is another workout essential.
The fitness range also includes some stylish workout wardrobe stables with sport tips at just €16.50 each and yoga-wear from just €18.50.
Promotional prices are available until January 24th, 2012 and are available from selected Tesco stores nationwide. For details on your nearest Tesco store and to check availability log onto www.tesco.ie
Natalie is a journalist and writer who has produced articles for Irish bridal title Confetti and fashion magazine Prudence among a host of other titles. Whilst working with Confetti she travelled to the Maldives to write a honeymoon feature for the Spring 2010 issue. She has an honours degree in Journalism and French and has lived and studied in Paris the fashion capital of the world, making her an ideal beauty & fashion blogger for OnOffer.ie.
So if you want beauty & fashion tips, travel advice, or just want Natalie's insight check out her website www.natalieburke.com for loads more articles, tips and fashion secrets.
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Fashion & Beauty
05 Jan 2012
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Ahh, January. A new beginning; out with the old, and in with the new. 2 Stone to be lost, alcohol to be banished and jean size to drop 2 sizes. Pah! January is full of resolutions and promises which, if being honest, are only there to be broken. We sacrifice and sacrifice and deprive ourselves of all our favourite things until we eventually crack and engage in a mammoth indulgence session which leaves us feeling a sense of failure. The "healthy living" lasts for 2 weeks and once we crack we don't go back!
It's silly trying to give up all cravings. We can't deprive ourselves forever and the buzz words for January 2012 should be "moderation" and "lifestyle change".
The first week in January is the busiest week in the year for almost every gym in Ireland. We try to run off the Turkey and Ham, Pudding, late night sandwiches, Pringles, roses, wine, beer, Guinness, mince pies, lindt bunnies, chocolate oranges, celebrations and whatever else we force fed ourselves over the 12 glorious days of Christmas. Below is a list of fitness tips and deals to help you get real results for 2012, not just the first 2 weeks.
There is little point going to the gym EVERY night as you will soon get bored. Twice or three times a week is ideal and the workout should be varied to keep in interesting. Gym prices vary and often ask for you to sign up for a period of 6 - 12 months. Energie Fitness have an excellent empowerment programme that allows you to get into the routine of a sustainable fitness routine. The fee is €150 for three month but includes personal training, diet guides, and tailored plans. There is a money back guarantee. Click here for more details.
The gym isn't for everyone and there are some great alternatives. Bootcamp has become huge in Ireland and the OnOffer team undertook the regime with Bootcamp Ireland and highly recommend it. Click here to see some of the activities undertaken. Essentially, what Bootcamp is is outdoor fitness within a group environment where motivation and hard work are in abundance during all sessions. An 8 week course with 2 sessions per week will cost around €150. It is really great value IF YOU ATTEND the classes. There is no money back for non-attendance but if you go and adopt the spirit of the classes you will see real results, and make good friends too. It's all done outdoors, irrespective of weather so it leaves you feeling really good about yourself. Click here for more information.
If you love outdoors training and have a hectic schedule where committing to a rigid timetable is impossible then have a read of our "Guide to Getting Started" running blog. It covers all the basics on training and getting going on your own. This January, Elverys are running some great deals and are giving customers 10% off all orders online and chance to win a €100 Voucher by entering their competition. Click here to enter the competition.
As always, we'd love to hear your fitness tips and advise on how to stay healthy this year!
Good luck with the resolutions
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Health & Fitness
14 Dec 2011
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Christmas Stocking Fillers- There not quite the main course but a bad stocking filler is similar to a bad starter in your favourite restaurant.
They whet the appetite and prepare you for the main event. The main may be quite sensational but a poor starter may still leave a bitter taste in your loved ones mouth! Stocking fillers aren't just provided to the kids by the large man with the beard. They are given to and from almost every present giving family in Ireland.
A recent selection of 20-30 something year olds were asked what they would like to receive in their stockings this year and what they would not like! Below are some interesting ones to get you thinking. As always, we'd love to hear what you would like and dislike this Christmas.
The Blue Planet- This DVD provides Perfect Christmas TV. Enjoy the dinner, settle into the groove on the couch, and relax. It's relaxing; it doesn't require too much concentration and generates general amazement in the room.
A Rare Auld Season- One for the boys! A book of photos highlighting the key moment is the Dublin Gaa teams amazing season.
The 80's Kid- One for those in their late twenties to early thirties. This book is a witty take on some of the toys, books, programmes, fashion statements and news stories that caught our imagination growing up in the 80's.
Fr Ted Box set- A great gift for anyone aged 15-80. Who doesn't love Father Ted and there is a guarantee that someone will say. "Ah, will you stick on Father Ted" by the 27th of December.
One Direction- One for the girls or for those that enjoy a good prank!
Little Mix CD- See one direction and substitute "Girls" with "girls and boys who pretend they like the song but really just fancy them".
A Groupon Voucher- Check out Groupons Christmas Gift Section. Plenty of stocking fillers at 50% off and prices start from just €10.
I-Tunes Voucher- Today's version of a voucher for HMV. Ideal for those who have just purchased the I Phone.
Tubs of Smarties- An absolute classic. Also works with Fruit Gums, Wine Gums, and Fruit Pasteills.
A Whistle Keyring - A gimmicky and annoying gadget used for locating keys that will be just hilarious for about an hour and a half until you have to throw it out.
A Shower Radio- For the more thoughtful giver. A shower radio is something we have not seen given too often but serves a great purpose.
Calvin Klein Boxers- No Guy can have enough boxers!
And below is a few suggestions of WHAT NOT TO GET..
Foot Odour Spray- While your loved one may well require this, a quiet word may be more appropriate than a Christmas Stocking Filler
Dunnes Stores Briefs- Get the CK's, don't get the over 80's version.
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Christmas
05 Dec 2011
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Following on from last weeks article on Online Deals, this week we are focusing on wine deals and we have teamed up with Maureen O Hara, WSET Certified Educator to find out which wines are best for what this year, and where the best value is. Keen to offer great value for money, Molloys have sourced some fantastic, flavoursome wines, directly from the producer this year. These below wines are on sale in Molloys outlets throughout Dublin at marvellous prices, not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.
Wines to buy in bulk for everyday drinking over Christmas
Domaine Caude Val Sauvignon Blanc & Merlot are both €7.99.
These wines are incredibly well-made varietals from the Languedoc, and would justify a higher price tag than the current modest €7.99.
The Sauvignon Blanc was named Wine of the Week in the Irish Times- it is refreshing and dry, with flinty and lemony characters and a slightly smoky twist. It would pair nicely with white fish, turkey or chicken. The Merlot is very satisfying - wonderful intense smoky aromas, with concentrated blackberry, spice and vanilla flavours. This would be delicious with a hearty winter beef casserole.
Party wines
Moulin de Gassac White & Red at €6.99
These are made by the Guibert family of Mas de Daumas Gassac fame, in the south of France. The white is dry & refreshing, oozing with Golden Delicious apples and ripe peaches. The red is bursting with flavours of blackcurrants, hints of earthy lead-pencil, cedar and mint and a nice peppery finish.
Wines to make a special impression
La Marca Prosecco Spumante at €14.49
Prosecco has become really popular, and it is worth while noting that some are better than others. This is a fully sparkling ‘Spumante' version.
This Prosecco has been awarded 90 points by Wine Spectator and included in the magazine's Top 100 Wines of 2007. As well as being the perfect aperitif, it goes well with light summer food and fish. Serve well chilled.
Ch. Donjon La Pujade Minervois at €12.99: from the southwest of France - a very elegant, yet at the same time intense and powerful. Ripe summer berry flavours, earthiness and wood, with firm tannins. Best enjoyed with food - beef or lamb roasts or red meat.
Chateauneuf du Pape, ‘Parcelles 38,' Jerome Quiot at €18
This is a real Christmas cracker from a great French producer - full-bodied, with earthy, peppery, spicy flavours, slightly smoky, and ripe bramble fruit. Its firm tannins would make it really good with red meats - roast lamb or beef, or casseroles. This would really impress a lover of red wine.
Wine for cold winter evening
Quinta do Cachao Douro €8.99
Portuguese wine is starting to become popular in Ireland. This is a fantastic red wine, worthy of a much higher price-tag. Medium to full-bodied with rich dark fruit flavours, coffee, vanilla and spice. Superb lengthy finish. Delicious with beef steaks or a slab of mature red cheddar!
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Christmas Parties
01 Dec 2011
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Failing to Prepare is preparing to fail. A term once used by Roy Keane regarding the ill preparation of the Irish football team. Roy had a point, a point that could be used across in many situations: sports preparation, interview preparation, exam preparation and also Christmas preparation!
All too often Christmas shopping is left to the very last minute and we are left running around the local Spar looking for the last jar of cranberry sauce, or trying to carry 6 crates of beer home in your hands on a slippery rode. Don't leave anything to the last minute this Christmas. This week we are focusing on the best drink deals available online that will allow you to worry about one last "last minute" item this year.
There are some amazing online wine beer and spirits deals available at Superquinn if you buy online.
Baileys 70CL- Only €13
Absolute Vodka 70Cl Only €15
Coumaroff Vodka 70Cl Only €12
Budweiser 8 x 500Ml Cans Only €12
Budweiser 20 pk by 300 Ml Only €15
Carlsberg Seasonal Slab 24 Pack Only €24
Bulmers Light 6 x 500ml only €10
Guinness Draft Cans 8 x 500 ml only €12
Jameson Whiskey Real Seal 700 ml only €18
Bacardi Breezer Calypsp Orange only €7.99
For a full range of drink offers from Superquinn click Here. For any of your own drinks promotions that you know of, be sure to post below!
Always Drink Responsibly!
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Drinks Promotions
24 Nov 2011
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It's that time of the year where everyone is talking about where to have their Christmas. Will it be a massive function room? Will it be a small space in a bar? Will the company finance it? Will it be formal wear? These are just some of the questions we all ask ourselves.
Traditionally, Christmas parties were an event where the ladies got to buy a new dress while the men rooted out their Sunday and sent it to the dry cleaners.
However, with the decline in formal balls and the increase in departmental events the onus has changed from who has the shiniest suit to who has the funniest Christmas wear.
A pair of antlers or a Santa hat just aren't good enough anymore. A Christmas jumper is a must and the more reindeers, sleighs, snowflakes, mistletoe, drummer bots, stars, baby Jesusus, little donkeys, Christmas trees, holly, stockings, turkey, hams, parsnips etc etc the better! The cheesier the better! Below we have come up with 5 places that allow you to stock up for this year's Christmas Parties.
River Island- If you are new to the Christmas jumper scene and don't want to dive in head first, river island might be perfect for you. They have a range of jumpers that border on the conservative side. Snowflakes, stars etc are all included but it's not something that will make you stand out.
FunkyChristmasjumpers.com- Just like the staire advert this site is "As seen on the Late Late show". They offer a wide range of jumpers including the snowman, the reindeer, Santa Claus and a sliding jovial penguin. There is a rumour that these guys provided the infamous jumper Mr. Ryan Tubridy wore on his first Toy Show Appearance.
Santa Baby- One for the ladies. This jumper turn skirt can be worn with leggings or it's own should you be brave enough with the weather freezing and the cameras snapping! You can pick it up at thecostumeshop.ie
Enjoy your Chirstmas Party!
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Christmas Jumpers
14 Nov 2011
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The I Phone 4s- Making sense of the deals
The I phone 4 s, the new I phone, The I Phone 4 and a half. Whatever you call it, most people are in agreement that this product would make one amazing stocking filler this Christmas.
There are some amazing deals for this must have gadget at the moment. Below we try to make sense of the different deals.
Vodafone
Bill Pay- Vodafone allow you to purchase the phone from €49 if you sign up on certain plans. Plans are from €65 a month and this 500 Worldwide Minutes, 500 Worldwide texts and 1GB of Data allowance. €65 is quite high if you are a heavy texter or internet user you may go over the allocation.
At the moment, you cannot but the I Phone 4s on Ready to go with Vodafone but you can purchase an 8GB I Phone 4 for €489
02
Bill Pay- 02 offer the 4s on Bill pay from €99. Plans are from as little as €20 a month but for this you only receive 150 minutes and texts. Those who like a good chat or text know this allocation can be used up discussing a good weekend. Data allocation is only 150 Megabites.
At the moment a pre paid 16GB 4s is €579 with 02.
E-Mobile
Bill Pay- Phone is FREE! Now we're talking. So what's the catch. Ok, the contract is 2 years so if you are planning on going anywhere soon, it's best not to go down this route. If you are married with kinds and not going anywhere soon, this could be ideal for you. The best plan is from €69 a month and this includes unlimited calls and text to any irish network and a massive 15 GB's on Data! It's basically all in for €69 per month.
Meteor
Bill Pay- The phone is free again and we have picked out 2great value plans. The cheapest plan is €45 per month and this includes 200 mins/200 texts and 5 Gigs. The €60 Per Month plan includes 400 mins and 40 texts and FREE Meteor to Meteor calls and texts.
Pay as you go is from €579.
At the moment, it would seem that E-mobile offer the best value if you are not worried about committing to a long contract. Meteor is also competitive. 02 and Vodafone still continue to command huger rates for what is perceived a more reliable service.
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Christmas Gift Ideas