On My Nightstand: Rosalie Tonkin

My dear friend, Rose, and I go way back. All the way back to our first year at varsity, where we started out as neighbours but soon became firm friends. Rose is the one who was responsible for introducing me to the wonders of ghd; she did my hair on our way out one night and I was SOLD. We also spent many a night drinking too much red wine and dancing till the wee hours (sometimes on the tables at Friar Tucks - simply called Friar's - Grahamstown's answer to a club). Then there were those infamous all-nighters, where we'd sit up all night and into the morning trying to write a semi-coherent English essay. Rose has since moved to the UK and I often think about her and wish that we could relive some of my varsity memories - it just wouldn't have been the same without her. I couldn't wait to hear more about what Rose keeps on her nightstand, because I knew it would be good...

"My nightstand, like me, is a plethora of contradictions. Judging from my make-up, you’d think I was conservative and non-experimental by the fact that all my products are from Bobbi Brown, the sleek black cases and neat white writing belonging to a brand known for their natural, “barely there” ethos. The contradiction to this assumption lies in my vast and schizophrenic array of lipglosses, lipsticks and lip balms that pile on top of one another in a neon green acrylic container next to my other “sensible” products displayed on a pretty decoupage breakfast tray, to allow easy selection from day to day."

"Pride of place goes to my brand new gold-plated curling iron by Hot Tools. Being the self-confessed beauty addict that I am, the acquisition of this curling iron took careful research and planning, as well as the purchase of an American currency converter weighing over a kilo that ended up being more costly than the iron itself. The Kardashianesque waves the iron achieves made it all worthwhile though.

Other items on my nightstand reflect my love of the unusual; a pink martini glass holds my hanging earrings around the rim while the centre holds my studs, and my cufflinks are housed in an old pink glass sugar bowl found at a London flea market. An item that I am probably fondest of is a three-tier antique pewter cake stand, originally intended for holding fondants and sandwich triangles for ladies who take tea, but now serves by holding my necklaces, bracelets, brooches and pendants. A green glass, the last in a set of four that have been annihilated during girls nights' in and house parties, now houses my set of makeup brushes."

"After many years of experimentation, I have finally settled on both a favourite haircare and skincare brand, Kérastase Volumactive and Dermalogica respectively, both of which have my undying consumer loyalty, however in the summer the contradiction once again creeps in as I supplement my moisturiser with my last remaining South African product, Environ Day Lotion with SPF.

Lastly, my collection of perfumes, all by very different brands but also very similar in scent, are within easy reach for a finishing off spritz before I head out the door."

Thanks so much for sharing, Rose! Your nightstand certainly lived up to my expectations and I love the fact that your trusty ghd is still by your side! 

To further indulge my curiosity, I'll be doing a regular series called 'On My Nightstand' where fellow bloggers and friends will take a few snap shots of their nightstand and send a brief description for your viewing pleasure, so be sure to check back regularly for the next installment. If you'd like to share the contents of your nightstand, please be in touch. I'd love to hear from you!