Monday, January 30, 2012

Guest Post: A Sulty Smokey Night Look!


Guest Post Written by Marla
Today the incredibly talented Marla of Makeup By Marla shares her Face of the Day (FOTD) from this past weekend. She also goes through the list of products she used to create the look!


On Saturday night I went out with a few friends to “The Marketplace”. The Marketplace is a tiny plaza that has restaurants, boutiques, and a movie theatre. I didn't want to look too made up but I wanted to wear a dark smokey eye to make my eyes pop.

Going out at night is really the ultimate test for your makeup. The staying power and durability needs to be good because you don’t want to have to be reapplying all night! I used a variety of drugstore and high end products that I both rely on and trust to stay put all night.

I will add small anecdotes about products that I recommend wearing when going out at night.



READ MORE!

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Zara Haul! (plus a small rant)

Hey Everyone!

The weekend is here already - I can't believe where the time goes. I've been super busy lately, as February is always a busy month! There's George's birthday (the big 30!!! woohoo!), Valentine's Day and our Anniversary (6 years!) all very close together. So, I have lots of planning to do, with very little time!

I've had several e-mails already for guest posting, and haven't had the chance to get back to them yet. But, I will get back to any unanswered e-mails by Monday.

In other news, I wanted to mention that I think it's official that I'm boycotting purchasing Essie polishes, unless I come across a ridiculously unique shade. For my Valentine's Day themed nails yesterday, I already have chips on every finger. It's one of those polishes where you'll look down at your hands randomly and find that the polish completely peeled off a nail. My mom used the same polish and the same thing happened to her. I mean, that can happen with any polish, but every Essie polish I have is either too thin (streaks galore) or too thick and gunky (like I left it in my car in 90 degree heat). I think I'm going to stick with OPI from now on.

Anyways, onto my haul!

Zara had an amazing sale for January, and I literally went nuts. Everything was an incredible deal, but I wish I spotted the sale earlier so I could have caught some extra goodies!

I purchased three pairs of shoes; one pair of knee-high boots, one pair of ankle boots and one pair of peep-toe heels.

I'm in crazy love with the ankle boots. The leather is so soft, and they just look so classy. They had them in black as well, but I was too late, and they all sold out!

I also purchased two bags that I've been wanting all winter. They were reduced to $39.99 each, and they're both real leather! 

The leopard print bag is huge and really structured. I think I'll be using as a briefcase, rather than a handbag. I've seen it on several fashion bloggers and I think it's such a chic accessory.

READ MORE!

Friday, January 27, 2012

NOTD: Essie Super Bossa Nova with Hearts!

essie super bossa nova

Essie Super Bossa Nova Nail Lacquer

When it comes to painting designs on my nails, most of the time I end up wishing I never attempted it in the first place - as most of the time it looks like I drew the designs with my eyes closed. I wanted to do a simple design in the spirit of Valentine's Day, so I added a little heart to each nail. Not the best job in the world, but I thought the outcome was kinda cute.

I used two coats of Essie Super Bossa Nova, which is a lovely fuchsia with very fine bright pink/purple shimmers. Essie's Nail Polish formula makes me want to scream at times - the first coat applied beautifully, and the second coat was difficult to spread. It was like applying old, goopy polish to my nails. I have this problem with Essie all of the time. But, by the time I applied my top coat (Seche Vite), no signs of a "struggle" showed through. It's a very pretty summer shade for the fingers and toes.

I added the hearts simply by using the tip of a toothpick. I dipped the tip of the toothpick in a small pool of the polish and laid the tip on a slight diagonal to my nail. It should create a half heart shape. Then, repeat on the opposite side to connect the heart.

You can practice on paper to get it right before you attempt it on your freshly painted nails!

You can get creative and draw borders and/or designs around the hearts. With the tip of the toothpick, I made a white dotted outline around one of my nails, and with a glitter nail art pen, outlined another heart.

What's on your nails?! Do you ever paint designs on your nails for the holidays?

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color in Dark Brown + A Few New Hair Products for Shiny Hair.

I know, probably doesn't look like much of a change, but my hair lately has been looking dull and lifeless. I figured it was time for a dye and picked up one that I've been using off and on for years - Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color in #30 Dark Brown.

The instructions are to leave it in your hair for 25 minutes, and I always make sure to leave it in for the exact time, and not a minute over, or I'll end up with almost black hair.

Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color is actually the least expensive hair dye you can find at the drugstore. It's only around $3 a box, and delivers just as well - if not better than the higher priced boxed dyes.

READ MORE!

Maybelline Mineral Power Concealer Review, Photos and Swatches!

maybelline mineral power concealer review

Maybelline Mineral Power Concealer

After blogging for a while, you start recognizing the products that get the most praise and recognition. Because of the popularity and rave reviews, you'll ultimately get sucked into purchasing a "blogger pick/favorite" sooner or later, some being great, and others - not so much.

Concealer is one of my favorite items of makeup. I'll never get tired of my endless endeavor, searching my local stores high and low for the best medium-full coverage, lightweight, brightening, non-caking, non-creasing, long-lasting concealer. Maybe my standards are too high? There are some concealers I favor - Hard Candy Glamoflauge (perfecto, but a little too dewy & not long lasting), MAC concealers (Pro Longwear, Studio Finish, Select Cover-up), but I've grown completely bored with them and am on the lookout for a new-found love!

Could it be Maybelline Mineral Power Concealer? I surely hoped so, but it does fall short of my standards.

PRODUCT DETAILS:
  • Blends easily for complete yet natural coverage
  • Conceals imperfections and undereye darkness all day
  • Pure color, natural luminous finish
  • Ophthalmologist tested
  • Talc, oil and fragrance free, non-pore-clogging
There are six (6) shades in total: Fair 10, Ivory 20, Cream 30, Sand 40, Beige 50 and Latte 60. 

Depending on the store you're purchasing from/location you may have a limited shade selection. The few CVS stores in my area only stocked the lightest 2-3 shades. I ended up getting "Cream" due to the limited shade selection.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Wet n Wild Don't Blink Pink Mega Last Matte Lipstick Review!

Wet n Wild Don't Blink Pink Lipstick Review

Wet n Wild #966 Don't Blink Pink Mega Last Matte Lipstick

If you haven't tried a Wet n Wild Mega Last Matte Lipstick by now, you ought to put some shoes on and check out your local store. Even though these little lipsticks are on the "lower"end of what your local drugstore has to offer, I believe they are some of the best!

Alright, so the packaging maybe isn't the best, and sometimes the lipstick bullet isn't completely secure (definitely double check before you purchase it by turning it upside down), but the variety of shades and the formula is awesome and comparable to matte lipsticks from the high-end brands.

There are a few new shades that popped up in the line, well, four that I'm currently aware of. All of the shades are bright and vibrant for the upcoming season. 

The shades are as follows: #965 Cherry Picking, #966 Don't Blink Pink, #967 Dollhouse Pink and #970 Purty Persimmon. 

Although I'd love to own all four, I only picked up one for now, which is the lovely Don't Blink Pink.

Don't Blink Pink is an intense, bright berry pink. It reminded me of MAC Impassioned in the tube, but a more pink, less red version. 

Wet n Wild Don't Blink Pink Lipstick

Maybelline Bad to the Bronze & Tough as Taupe Color Tattoo Eyeshadows Review!

maybelline color tattoo eyeshadow review

 Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Eyeshadows

Those that follow other beauty blogs, I'm sure you're all very familiar with these newly launched Maybelline cream eyeshadows. They've been flying off the shelves along with the L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows, as soon as they hit stores at the start of 2012.

Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadows are cream/gel fomula eyeshadows with intense pigment, that claim to hold up for 24 hours without creasing.

Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadows are available in ten (10) shades: #10 Fierce and Tangy, #05 Too Cool, #15 Audacious Asphalt, #20 Painted Purple, #25 Bad to the Bronze, #30 Pomegranate Punk, #35 Tough as Taupe, #40 Tenacious Teal, #45 Bold Gold and #50 Edgy Emerald.

I only picked up two shades, Bad to the Bronze and Tough as Taupe, which are two very versatile, neutral shades.

Bad to the Bronze is a metallic chocolate brown-bronze with very fine shimmers. It doesn't lean orange or red, and is a fairly neutral shade.

Tough Taupe is a matte dove grey. It appears slightly lighter in the container, but when swatched, the color is a bit deeper. It's very much on the neutral-cool side.

Maybelline Bad to the Bronze and Tough as Taupe Color Tattoos
#25 Bad to the Bronze & #35 Tough as Taupe

Maybelline Bad to the Bronze and Tough as Taupe Color Tattoos

Monday, January 23, 2012

Victoria's Secret Hot Pink Dazzleshine Lipgloss Review, Photos and Swatches!

Victoria's Secret Hot Pink Dazzleshine Lipgloss

Victoria's Secret Hot Pink Beauty Rush Dazzleshine Lipgloss 

It's always hard to resist those tempting bins they have strategically placed near the cash register, so you can rack up your total while anxiously waiting in line. After talking myself out of unnecessary purchases and patting myself on the back for my awesome will-power, I always manage to sucker myself into something glittery I don't need, in those very bins. My recent trip to Victoria's Secret was no exception. 

I'm not sure how new these glosses are to the Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush line, but I believe they are one of their newest additions.

Victoria's Secret Dazzleshine Lipglosses are available in six (6) dazzling shades: Wine, Hot Pink, Cherry, Nude, Opal Shimmer and Pink Rose.

I chose Hot Pink because I thought it would pair well with some of my fuschia lip colors. It's basically a very sheer bright pink filled with bright pink/purple glitter flecks. The glitters are very fine, so you don't feel the grit on your lips. 
Victoria's Secret Hot Pink Dazzleshine Lipgloss
They retail for $7 each, or you can purchase 2/$12 ($6 each) or 4/$20 ($5 each).

I actually expected them to be squeeze tubes by the looks of it, but they actually have a doe-foot lipgloss wand. That can be a good, or bad thing depending on your preference. For a cream formula gloss, I like a doe-foot. But, for a clear, glittery gloss, I prefer a brush applicator - kind of like MAC Dazzleglasses. They seem to apply a little more product to the lips.

They all have different scents, ranging from citrus to "dazzling daiquiri". Hot Pink has the dazzling daiquiri scent - It smells like a sweet rum, but faints once on the lips. I'm not big on scented glosses, and kinda wished it would be scent-free, but I guess we can't win them all, right?

Sunday, January 22, 2012

75% OFF Select Milani Cosmetics at your local CVS!

As a beauty blogger, I pretty much have a weekly routine of checking out my local drugstore makeup aisles, taking note of all of the new sales and product displays. My drugstore of "choice" is CVS Pharmacy, as most of the time, I fine a little gem in the rough, ticketed to a price too good to pass up.

Sometimes there aren't any good sales going on, but I always make sure to quickly scan each brand section, looking for a little neon orange sticker. That wonderful little sticker means that the item is a whopping 75% off. 

So you can imagine my excitement last night when several items on the Milani Cosmetics Display had orange labels on them! In my opinion, Milani is an awesome brand. You don't hear too much about the brand because they don't do much advertising, are hard-to-find, a little pricey, and they rarely ever go on sale! 

Not everything is on clearance, but there is a good number of bronzers, blushes, nail polishes, nail art pens, eye liners, lipsticks, etc, that are all a part of the amazing deal. 

*Note, if you go to your local CVS and don't see labels on the Milani cosmetics, make sure to take some (select) items to the price-checker, as they should scan the clearance price.

Onto the goodies I purchased!
milani mineral blushes
Milani Minerals Blush is a talc-free pressed mineral powder blush. It's lightweight, pigmented and has a smooth finish. It's available in 4 shades: Sunset Beach, Mai-Tai, Luminous and Sweet Rose. I purchased 3 of the four shades, and have yet to test them out on my face, but I'm excited to try them! I've known for a while that Luminous is a dupe for Nars' popular Orgasm Blush. They do appear quite similar.

Heavy Swatches of the three shades:
milani mineral blush swatches

Saturday, January 21, 2012

A little laugh for your day..

I thought this video was hilarious, so, I had to pass it on.



Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Friday, January 20, 2012

Jewelmint Metal Mosaic Ring Review!

jewelmint metal mosaic ring

Jewelmint Metal Mosaic Ring

Hey Everyone, quick Jewelmint post today - I purchased another ring that I've had my eyes on for a while. It's one of their older pieces that has been around since I joined a few months ago. It's the 'Metal Mosaic Ring'.

I decided to finally get it after realizing how well it would coordiante with my most recent Madison Avenue Ring. I do of course have other silver rings, but I'm a big fan of the quality of Jewelmint's rings. I have three, and they are all very sturdy, heavy, comfortable and haven't tarnished/discolored in any way.

The Metal Mosaic Ring is available in one color, silver, which is oxidized to give off an antique/grungy look. It's made up of a cluster of different sized squares that are all connected. It's a really unique and "different" ring. It really looks like a small piece of art on your finger.

Kate Bothworth says,

"This ring is the type of piece that will carry over so well from running around in the day to enjoying a night on the town. It's one of my favorite rings we've done so far. Channel Alexander Wang - a little tough, urban and very cool. "

jewelmint metal mosaic ring
Jewelmint Metal Mosaic Ring

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

NOTD: Pink and White Reverse French.



I know we're all familiar with the traditional french manicure, but the reverse french - also known as the half moon manicure, is something much less traditional. It was one of the most popular nail trends in 2011, and is still being seen on catwalks for Spring 2012. It's a very funky and trendy nail design that can be done easily with the help of a some stickers (or a steady hand!).

What's fun about the reverse french is that there's really no right or wrong way to do it! You can use any two colors you'd like, using contrasting colors or colors similar in tone for a more subtle effect. The "half moons" can be any size you want, there is really no standard.

For my manicure, I used two coats of Sally Hansen Salon Nail Lacquer in #320 All the White Stuff and one coat of ULTA Salon Formula Nail Lacquer in Heirhead. For a top coat, I used Seche Vite Top Coat.

  • First, pick your two nail polish colors.
  • (Optional) Apply a thin layer of a base coat.
  • Apply 1-2 coats of the color you want your reverse french/half moon to be. (I chose white)
  • Wait for your nails to dry completely. You want to make sure they are completely dry, otherwise, you can risk messing up your nails in the next step. You may want to add a coat of a fast drying top coat to seal the two coats of polish. I used Seche Vite Top Coat for this.
  • Stick paper reinforcement stickers to the base of your nail. Depending on your preference, you can stick them on higher up, or lower down. So they aren't too sticky, stick them on the back of your hand prior to applying them on your nails.
  • Paint 1-2 coats of your preferred top color, remove stickers. I removed them right away, so they wouldn't get stuck to my nails.
  • Apply a top coat.

    (Image Credit: Teen.com)




    Monday, January 16, 2012

    Current Products in my Rotation!

    I've always been one to carry tons of makeup with me in my handbag, but in the past year or so, I've been carrying a lot less makeup with me in my bag, and leaving more at home. I use to literally bring with me every item of makeup I'd be wearing on a certain day, just "in-case" something happens and I'll need to fix it. Nowadays, I only bring a few items with me - a powder compact for touch ups, a lipstick and gloss, eyeliner and a couple brushes. (I haven't been ruining the lining of my handbags either - yay!)

    My "every day" products change quite often, as I'm constantly trying new things. But to keep my most used products handy, I keep them all in one place for easy access. If a certain product isn't getting much use, I'll put it back in my storage system so I don't have a bin of overflowing products. 

    Here's a peek at what I've been using lately!
    NARS Pro Prime Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base (travel size) - I recently got this in a swap, and so far I like it. I don't find it much different than Urban Decay Primer Potion, but it's a good primer that keeps my eye shadow in place all day.
    YSL Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils Longwear Cream Eyeliner in Deep Black - (reviewed here). This is my current favorite cream liner, and I use it just about every day!
    Bobbi Brown Longwear Cream Eyeshadow in Stone - Stone is a light, taupe shade that is very soft and natural. I like using it smudged into my lash line for a very soft look. It's quite similar in color to MAC Groundwork Paintpot.
    MAC Paintpot in Constructivist - Constructivist is a gorgeous bronzed-brown with a reddish undertone. Many times I use it alone smudged into my lash line, or as a base for my brown eyeshadow.
    Chanel Illusion d'Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow in Epatant - (reviewed here) I haven't had this very long, but I've been wearing it just about every chance I get. It seems to blend really well with my every day brown shadows.
    MAC Brule Eyeshadow - Brule is a matte, soft ivory. I use it every day all over my lid before applying any other eyeshadow. It evens out the color on my lids and makes my lids a perfect blank canvas for my eyeshadow and liner.
    L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows in Endless Pearl, Iced Latte, Bronzed Taupe and Amber Rush - These are pretty new to my collection, but they are everything that everyone has been raving about. They are wonderful, dreamy-smooth and intensely pigmented shadows. I love using Endless Peal all over my lid (as it's just like MAC Brule, but more pigmented). Iced Latte as a highlight, and Bronzed Taupe and Amber Rush in my crease. (I'll do a separate post on these later!)
    Christian Dior Five Golds 5-Colour Eyeshadow Palette - (reviewed here) This is an older limited edition palette, but it's one of my favorite palettes. All 5 colors go together so wonderfully and when using this palette, I never need to reach for any additional colors. This palette has it all. If you can get your hands on one in a blog sale, swap, etc, I highly recommend it!

    Swatches
    From Left to Right: YSL Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils Longwear Cream Eyeliner in Deep Black, MAC Paintpot in Constructivist, Chanel Illusion d'Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow in Epatant, Bobbi Brown Longwear Cream Eyeshadow in Stone, L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows in Endless Pearl, Iced Latte, Amber Rush and Bronzed Taupe, MAC Brule Eyeshadow, Christian Dior Five Golds Quint.

    READ MORE!

    Friday, January 13, 2012

    Revlon Pink Light Age Defying Spa Face Illuminator Review, Photos and Swatches!

    revlon face illuminator pink light

    Revlon Pink Light Age Defying Spa Face Illuminator

    I love a good deal just like the rest of us, and when I see a clearance rack, I'm all over it. I love checking out my local drugstores - especially Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy for good deals. Granted, their cosmetics are higher in price than Walmart or Target per say, but their markdowns are awesome! Last week I spotted this Revlon Illuminator (being discontinued) for 75% off. I ended up paying around $3, which was a pretty sweet deal for a product with such high ratings. (Makeupalley has all shades rated 4.6/5!)

    Revlon Age Defying Spa Face Illuminator is a creamy, sheer liquid that works to brighten dry, tired dull skin. It has a pearl finish to cast light to the areas where it has been applied, to create a soft glow and to add definition to your face. It can be used under foundation as an illuminating base, over foundation in areas that need brightening (high points of the cheeks, corners of the eyes, etc), alone or on your neck & body.

    PRODUCT DETAILS:
    -Boosts natural radiance for a fresh, luminous glow
    -Light reflecting micronized crystals illuminate on contact
    -Sheer color in a lightweight, oil-free formula
    -SPF 18

    Revlon Age Defying Spa Face Illuminator is available in (4) shades: 010 Bare Light, 020 Pink Light, 030 Gold Light and 040 Bronze Light.

    I grabbed Pink Light, a pale, frosty pink. Similar to Benefit High Beam, but a little more sheer.
    revlon illuminator pink light

    Thursday, January 12, 2012

    Current fragrances I'm really liking!

    I'm really picky when it comes to fragrances. Not so much body lotions and mists, but every time I'm at a department store and I test out fragrances, I always leave empty handed, with a headache, smelling like I rolled around in old potpourri. I rarely receive a fragrance sample I like, or find a good scent in a magazine.

    I'm not really a pro at reading the descriptions for fragrances, and I'm not familiar with all of the different notes- "soft, sensual silk with a twist of shimmering goldenrod, embracing and captivating blah, blah, blah". Plain English please?

    Haha, with time though, I'm sure I'll get the hang of it.

    Anyway, I haven't owned many perfumes throughout the years. I alternate between Chanel Chance Eau Fraiche and Versace Bright Crystal. My kind of fragrance is something that's a little fruity, slightly floral and fresh/clean. I also kinda like amber, and a little musk never killed anyone, right? I said a little, by the way.

    I don't like vanilla - and by don't like, I mean I can't stand it. I don't like anything sweet (unless I'm eating it). Examples: Cupcakes, Chocolate, Cookie, Sprinkles, Brown Sugar, Vanilla Bean, Cotton Candy. I despise it all in a fragrance, air freshener, candle, etc. Too synthetic to me. I also don't like anything too powdery - I don't like the smell of baby powder, and high woody/tobacco notes actually make me feel nauseous.

    So, you can imagine how flabbergasted I was, when I liked all of my recent samples!

    Narciso Rodriguez For Her Eau de Toilette


    The first time I smelled this perfume was a few years ago from a friend that worked at Sephora. Apparently, it was one of their top rated/best sellers at the time. It wasn't much my taste, but seeing the good reviews, I decided to give it a second chance. It's quite strong and very musky at first, but once the musk softens up, it's a beautiful fragrance that I absolutely love smelling on myself all day long. It's very warm, with a spicy and sweet musk that is slightly powdery. It has a touch of floral and fruit that emerges a couple hours later. Even though it contains notes I'm not that keen on (ehem, vanilla), it's perfectly balanced. It's a very classy and luxurious/expensive scent, and reminds me a little bit of classic Chanel.

    Notes: Honey Flower, Solar Musk, Orange Blossom, Osmanthus, Amberlyn, Vanilla, Tactile Musk, Tactile Woods, Vetiver.

    Givenchy Play For Her Eau de Parfum


    This type of fragrance reminds me a bit of my Mom when I was young. She wore Nicole Miller and Privelege and whenever she walked past me after her morning bath, I always smelled the honey floral. Play for Her is a very soft, sensual and feminine fragrance that smells a bit like sweet honey, carnations and a slight powdery wood - possibly a hint of Amber? Although it's not listed in the notes. Maybe bitter orange? A very playful scent that I think anyone can enjoy.

    Notes: Bergamot, Sweet Pea, Amyris Wood, Tiare Flower, Sandalwood, Musk.

    CONTINUE READING!

    Wednesday, January 11, 2012

    Review: Physician's Formula 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum! LOVE!

    Physician's Formula 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum

    I'm always on the lookout for the next best thing when it comes to drugstore makeup. I've tried many brands of liners, many of them felt tip, and they've all left me feeling a little underwhelmed.

    A few months ago I snagged an awesome deal on Physician's Formula at CVS. I believe it was spend $10 and get $7 extra-cash - which in conjunction with a coupon I had, a $10 item was almost free. So, I browsed reviews for all Physician's Formula products and ran across the Physician's Formula 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum. It's one of Makeupalley's highest rated PF products, with a 4.3/5 rating and an 86% re-purchase rate. I didn't hesitate to purchase a tube.

    Physician's Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner is available in (3) shades: Deep Brown, Black and Ultra Black. It is also available in Clear.

    The reason it's available in clear is because the liner contains a lash serum that when applied at the base of your lashes (where you'd normally apply eyeliner), in time, the formula will enhance the appearance of your lashes.

    On the website, it's described as a "High-tech Japanese formula" that is long-wearing, water-resistant and smudge-resistant.

    The tip isn't your standard felt-tip marker style pen. It's actually a pointed brush applicator. It's thin and comes to a fine point, making it easy to create a thin, precise line. For a thicker line, you can hold the liner sideways and drag it across your lashline.


    Tuesday, January 10, 2012

    Review: Shoedazzle Celebrity Designed 'Sparkle' Studded Heels.

    We all know by now that these monthly subscription sites (Shoedazzle, Jewelmint, Shoemint, Beautymint, Stylemint, Birchbox, Glambox, etc..) have become insanely popular. From the many companies, I've only tried Jewelmint and Shoemint, but have always wondered about many of the other companies.

    I can't say for certain, but Shoedazzle was the first online fashion monthly subscription site I've ever heard about, co-founded in 2009 by Kim Kardashian. When the site first launched, I quickly made an account to see my selection, but due to a spending budget I put myself on, I never purchased anything.


    What is ShoeDazzle? ShoeDazzle is the leading online fashion brand delivering personalized monthly shoe, handbag and jewelry selections to members by its team of top celebrity stylists. Each recommendation speaks to au courant fashion trends and is selected based on each member’s own distinctive sense of style. The company, which was founded by Brian Lee, Robert Shapiro, MJ Eng, and Kim Kardashian, who serves as the site’s Chief Fashion Stylist, was launched in March 2009 and now boasts over one and a half million Facebook fans. ShoeDazzle, the first and most successful online styling service, allows members to experience the personalized service of shopping on Rodeo Drive at an affordable cost. ShoeDazzle’s no-obligation monthly membership cost of $39.95 includes the stylists’ service, your choice of a pair of shoes, a handbag or a jewelry set, and free shipping both ways with easy returns.

    Recently I was given the opportunity to try one of the shoes in my monthly selection, and I chose Sparkle.

    Sparkle is a black faux suede pump with silver stud detailing on the heel, platform and dual ankle straps. The heel measures 4" with a 1" platform.


     Shoedazzle Sparkle
    CONTINUE READING!

    Monday, January 9, 2012

    Yves Saint Laurent YSL 'Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils' Longwear Cream Eyeliner in Deep Black!

    YSL 'Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils' Longwear Cream Eyeliner

    The Eyeliner Effect Faux Cils Cream Liner is one of Yves Saint Laurent's newer additions, along with their latest Shocking Mascara and Shocking Eyeliner Pen.

    What's peaked my interest about this cream eyeliner, is it's said to be waterproof, smudgeproof and (24 hour) long lasting. What product labeled "lasts for 24 hours" isn't tempting, anyway?

    "creates a spectacularly intense line without creasing or flaking. Its soft, silky formula formulated with quick-drying oils creates a lightweight base for smooth application without skipping. Beautiful and mess-proof, it stays put for smudge-proof, all-day wear."

    YSL Eyeliner Effect Faux Cils is available in 6 shades: #1 Deep Black, #2 Ashy Black, #3 Bronze Black, #4 Sea Black, #5 Cherry Black and #6 Jade Black. Depending on where you're ordering from, you can become easily confused with the names. For instance, on the Nordstrom website, #2 Ashy Black is called #2 Black Grey or #5 Cherry Black is called #5 Black Burgundy. The numbers always stay the same, though.

    #1 Deep Black is an intense black for those who prefer their blacks to be very dark.

    READ MORE FOR SWATCHES!

    Sunday, January 8, 2012

    Chanel Epatant Illusion D'Ombre Eyeshadow Review, Photos and Swatches!

    chanel epatant illusion dombre eyeshadow

    Chanel Epatant Illusion D'Ombre Long-Wear Luminous Eyeshadow

    The Chanel Illusion D'Ombre Long Wearing Eyeshadows is a small line of  "gel" eye shadows that newly launched this past Fall of 2011. During that time, it seemed everyone was going mad over the Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Intense Shadows, but the attention steered away from them for a little bit as these little glass pots stole the spotlight. I still have yet to get my hands on a Giorgio Armani!

    What's special about the Chanel shadows is their unique formula. Are they a cream, gel, mousse? 
     Chanel describes them by saying, "An innovative gel texture that is both soft and cushiony allows it to be worn as eyeshadow or eyeliner." They are like hybrid between a mousse (but more dense) and a gel (like a MAC Paintpot, but much less dense). The texture is light and spongy, creamy and blends beautifully with intense pigment.

    There are (6) shades in the line-up: Fantasme (shimmering white), Emerveille (shimmering peach/champagne), Illusoire (shimmering purple-mauve), Epatant (shimmering pewter-green), Mirifique (shimmering black) and Ebloui (shimmery burgundy). The shades I was most interested in is: Illusoire, Epatant and Emerville, but at $36 a pop, I only purchased one for now.

     
    Epatant is a pewter-golden khaki green shimmering with silver reflects. On the eyes, I don't notice the green as much as I notice the silver. It reminds me a lot of Chanel Graphite Nail Polish, but in eyeshadow form.

    Saturday, January 7, 2012

    Chanel Bagatelle Glossimer Review, Photos and Swatches!

    chanel bagatelle

     Chanel Bagatelle Glossimer

    After walking away from the MAC counter empty handed, I went over to the Chanel counter to check out their Spring 2012 Collection. The only products that really stood out to me were May Le Vernis, what seemed like the perfect, creamy pink nail polish, Blush Horizon De Chanel; a soft pinkish-coral face powder, and Bagatelle Glossimer.
    I ended up getting only the Glossimer from the collection, as I knew right away that it would be the perfect layering gloss for most of my favorite lipsticks.

    Bagatelle is a light-medium Pepto-Bismol pink, filled with fine gold shimmer. The gold shimmer gives the pink gloss a bright, warm pink with a hint of peach appearance. From swatches I've seen on other blogs, the lipgloss looks fairly pigmented - Although it may be slightly more opaque than the others in this collection, or Glossimers in general, it's still pretty sheer. When applied heavier, the color is more opaque, but it seems to sheer out pretty soon after.

    Applied to my lips, it brightens, with adding a sheer pink hue and lots of shine.

    chanel bagatelle glossimer review

    Friday, January 6, 2012

    Maybelline Volume Express One By One Mascara Review!

    maybelline one by one mascara review

    Maybelline One by One Volum' Express Mascara

    PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Patented lash catcher brush has 3 bristles per lash to make every lash count. It catches, coats and de-clumps each lash to make them all fatter and flirtier. Instant clump-free volume. Contact lens safe and ophthalmologist tested. Washable. (There are often Kmart coupon codes available for Maybelline)

    Lash Catcher? Well, that's a fancy title for a mascara wand. The unique wand design is the star of the show in Maybelline's One by One Mascara, which I'm not actually too keen of. The shape is a rounded oval (like a football), with rows of rubber bristles that start out short and ascend toward the middle and descend again at the end. There's a tiny bit of space between each row, specifically so there are less bristles touching your lashes (think of it as one on one time with your lash and the bristle) to "catch" or coat your individual lashes. The result should be separated lashes with a little bit of volume, minus the clumps.
    Maybelline One by One Mascara Wand

    Thursday, January 5, 2012

    Tarte Exposed Amazonian Clay Blush Review, Photos and Swatches!

    tarte exposed amazonian clay blush

    Tarte Exposed Amazonian Clay Blush

    The Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes were all the rage since their early launch in 2011, and have earned a spot on many bloggers "favorites of 2011" beauty products lists. Infused with natural clay of the Amazon River and naturally baked by the sun, this nutrient-rich blush benefits all skin types and is long-lasting (supposedly 12 hours).

    They are available in several shades (12 on the Sephora website, with four of them being new shades) from nude, light pink, bright pink, coral, etc. I own Exposed, which is the most natural shade of the bunch and one of those no-brainer products you know you can rely on for every day.

    Exposed is a soft, neutral brownie-pink with a slight rosy undertone, that never looks orange. Although it looks matte in the pan, it does have a few shimmers, but are barely visible on the skin. Many compare it to MAC Blushbaby, Nars Douceur or Nars Madly; I own Madly and Blushbaby, and although I find them similar, they are actually quite different. Madly is a warm peachy-bronze with a hint of pink & shimmer. It's warmer & shimmery, and almost looks orange when compared to Exposed. Blushbaby and Exposed are more comparable. What differs on my cheeks is that Blushbaby looks slightly deeper and is more rosy (red) whereas Exposed is softer and less ruddy.

    tarte exposed blush comparison swatches

    tarte exposed blush

    Zoya 2 FREE 2012 Promotion!

    ZOYA 2 FREE NAIL POLISH CODE

    If you're a fan of Zoya polishes, or have always wanted to give Zoya polishes a try, now is a good time! Every once in a while Zoya has some really sweet offers, and I think this one is pretty awesome.

    From now through 1/9/2012 11:59 PM ET, Zoya is going to let you try any* 2 bottles of Zoya Nail Polish for FREE on ZOYA.COM. All you pay is the standard shipping charges ($6.95). For reference, the price of one bottle of Zoya polish is $8.

    As a bonus, you can purchase an additional $25 or more of Zoya or Qtica products and get FREE Shipping Too!..Bonus!

    USE CODE: ZOYA2012

    *Promotion Excludes True & Fleck Effect Collection Colors

    For swatches, special offers and Zoya news, check out their official blog: http://zoyanailpolish.blogspot.com. (No affiliation)

    I don't splurge too often on pricey nail polishes, mainly because I get bored of shades easily. So, if I only use a polish once, I won't feel guilty if it was only a couple of dollars. ;)


     
    (Top left: Shay, Right: Jolene. Bottom left: Yara, Right: Neeka)

    Narrowing it down between these so far...