Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Lots of Makeup on Clearance at Walgreens!


If you're a regular at your local Walgreens, be sure to stop by the Cosmetic aisle and take a look at the products marked with a bright orange sticker. Many products are marked from 50-75% off. I didn't want to go crazy and purchase on impulse, but I picked up a couple of things at a ridiculously low price.

I can't remember everything, but I recall seeing Rimmel Clean Finish Foundation, L'Oreal Eyeshadow Quads, Maybelline High Shine Color Sensational Lipsticks, L'Oreal Magic Souffle Foundation, Covergirl Nature Luxe Foundation, Revlon Cream Eyeshadow Quads, certain shades of assorted Revlon Foundations and lots more!!

I have no clue how the system works, and if the products are only being removed from Walgreens or if the products are being discontinued everywhere. If anyone has any insight on this, let me know! I went to CVS last night and none of the items I saw at Walgreens were on clearance. I'm wondering if they're making room for new products that brands typically launch at the end of the year and start of the new year.

Also, I went to two different Walgreens locations and some products were marked clearance that weren't marked at the other location. Locations can differ, so if you're planning on picking up something that you know should be marked, try having a cashier scan it at the register. Some stores are just behind on marking things.

If you stop by, let me know what you found!

Berry Lips on a Budget - A Wallet-friendly List of Vampy Lip Colors!

Berry Lips on a Budget

If you want to experiment with dark, vampy lip colors this Fall and don't want to break the bank, I compiled a small list of some wallet-friendly options for you to give a try.

Speaking for myself, the only lipsticks I ever reach the end of are my every day shades, so when it comes to rocking trendy colors - such as hot pink, red, orange and deep-dark shades, realistically I'll never finish a full tube before they'll eventually get tossed. There's nothing wrong with splurging if you can fit it in your budget, but for something like a statement lip color that you probably won't get much wear from, you might want to look into the less expensive options to really get your money's worth. And, there are so many options at the drugstore!

The term "berry" is so vague as berry can refer to a huge range of shades. The colors I picked are very Fall appropriate wine/plum/berry shades, some of which should work on most skin tones. I apologize in advance that some are very similar.

Revlon Red Velvet Colorburst Lip Butter ($7.49) is a medium-dark, neutral wine-red with a shiny finish. With one layer it gives a sheer, semi-shiny stain. With a few layers, the color is completely opaque. The formula is moisturizing and feels great on the lips. This is one of the few darker shades that I can get away with without using a lip brush. It's one of the easier shades to wear because it's a very balanced red toned wine and doesn't wash out the complexion. I think it's a universally flattering shade.
Revlon Red Velvet

Revlon Bordeaux Colorburst Lipgloss ($7.49) is a rose wine/darkened raspberry with very fine golden shimmer and a glossy finish. It's sheer but buildable to full coverage. The formula is creamy, lightweight and feels comfortable on the lips. It makes my lips look fuller and juicy. This is easily my favorite from the bunch as it has a very "mod" vibe and there's a brightness about it that makes my face look healthy and youthful. 
Revlon Bordeaux

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Physician's Formula Boost your Beauty Giveaway Ends Today! Don't Forget to Enter!

Physician's Formula Boost your Beauty Giveaway

If you haven't already, make sure to enter my Physician's Formula Boost your Beauty Giveaway! The prize is the Physicians Formula products shown above! Entering is easy, and you are allowed (3) entries in total.

The giveaway ends at midnight. Unfortunately, this giveaway is only open to US residents. Thank you for understanding!

Click here to enter!

Monday, October 29, 2012

Weekly Poll Results - What's Your Favorite Brand for Makeup Remover Wipes?

What's your favorite brand for make-up remover wipes?

Over the course of the past month or so, I went on an experiment trying a handful of different makeup remover/cleansing towelettes to see which is the best. My results didn't surprise me, as the most effective wipes still turned out to be my top choice from the past few years; The Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleaning Towelettes, $4.74, Target.

I was really curious to see what all of your favorites are, so I created a poll that lasted a little over a week asking which brand is your favorite from some of the main brands you can find at drugstore (with the exception of MAC).

The results are... 

Neutrogena - 78 votes (34%)
E.L.F. - 9 votes (3%)
Olay - 8 votes (3%)
MAC - 27 votes (11%)
Ponds - 21 votes (9%)
Aveeno - 8 votes (3%)
Equate - 14 votes (6%)
Other - 63 votes (27%)

This poll is based on 228 participants.

The majority voted for Neutrogena, but it didn't win by a landslide. The runners up was actually other brands not mentioned. I'd love to know for those of you who who voted "Other", which brand would you choose to be your favorite?

Are makeup wipes a must-have in your bathroom, or do you only rely on your cleanser?

Do you have any ideas for questions in the weekly poll? Let me know in the comments!

Sunday, October 28, 2012

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter Review, Photos and Swatches!

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter ($29) is described on the MAC website as a soft peachy nude with multi-dimensional shimmer. It has a hint of warm pink to it and mixed with the glistening champagne-peach, it gives off a rose gold appearance. It's a limited edition highlighter originally released in the MAC In Extra Dimension Collection this past Spring, but was re-released in the newest MAC Glamour Daze Collection.

The power itself is very finely milled, silky smooth and almost feels like a pressed pigment. It's highly pigmented with a high shine finish. I found that when I apply too much, it looks very metallic. This is easily the most intense highlighter I own. The great thing is that if you over-do it, it's easy to fix. If I screw up, I'll lightly run my foundation brush over it (with foundation residue), and it lightens up perfectly.

To apply, I usually use a small stippling brush or my fingers. Either work fine, but I like using my fingers to diffuse the edges. It works really well. Due to the texture, a synthetic and/or dense brush picks up product better than a natural bristle brush.

I really like the way it wears over time. Some highlighters tend to sit on top of the skin, sometimes looking a bit ashy/powdery and unnatural. Superb becomes one with my skin and catches light without looking like an obvious highlighter. I prefer this formula over the MAC Mineralize Skinfinishes which can look a little powdery.

It stays put all day, which is a huge bonus. Since I'm not one to touch-up my makeup throughout the day, anything long lasting is good news for me. One of my favorite highlighters is The Balm Mary-Lou Manizer, but it disappears too quickly on my skin. By the end of the day, Superb hasn't gone anywhere.

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter

MAC Superb Extra Dimension Skinfinish/Highlighter

Saturday, October 27, 2012

MAC Pink Pearl Pop Lipstick Review, Photos and Swatches!

mac pink pearl pop lipstick

MAC Pink Pearl Pop Lipstick

MAC Pink Pearl Pop Lipstick ($15) is described on the MAC website as a frosted mid-tonal pink. It's a very girly and subtly warm, vibrant pink, so if you're feeling like you want to wear something other than your average muted pink but don't want something very bright and in-your-face, Pink Pearl Pop is a great median. And despite what the description says, it's not frosty. The pigmentation is sheer, and buildable to medium coverage. It has a shiny balm-like finish.

I own many pinks, but I couldn't find a perfect dupe for Pink Pearl Pop. Revlon Perennial Pink Colorstay Mineral Lipglaze came the closest, as when I applied Pink Pearl Pop on my bottom lip and Perennial Pink on my top lip, I could hardly tell the difference, other than the lipgloss obviously being glossier. Pink Pearl Pop is a little more vibrant.

Pink Pearl Pop launched recently a couple months ago with the MAC Cremesheen + Pearl Collection, along with six other lipsticks and an array of Cremesheen Glasses. I had my eyes on several shades, but considering they are permanent products, I'm in no rush to get them all at once.

As with most Cremesheen formulas, Pink Pearl Pop feels moisturizing and comfortable on the lips.

mac pink pearl pop lipstick

MAC Pink Pearl Pop Lipstick Swatch
MAC Pink Pearl Pop Lipstick on my lips.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Sneak Peak MAC Apres Chic Collection for December 2012!

mac apres chic collection

MAC Après Chic Collection December 2012

I know, the MAC Holiday Collection just launched a few days ago and we're already word of the collection to follow! It's a Mineralize Collection, which is exciting news to me because I love Mineralize products (especially the blushes). The collection is set to launch late December in the USA/Canada. So far, I haven't seen any promo images, but I will post them once I spot them. So far, the only photo we have to go off of is the one above that has been floating around and it doesn't include everything in the collection. There also seems to be an extra lipstick out (maybe a double?)

"Changing scenes from the high drama of the holidays to the haute chic of the ski slopes. Natural glamour appears effortless, and in its element, against a brilliant blue sky or luxe lodge. This gorgeous look starts with luminous MAC Mineralize Skinfinish and Blush applied with the 187 Duo Fibre Face Brush. Use the 287 Duo Fibre Eye Shadow Brush to build layers of dimensional colour with Mineralize Eye Shadow. Mineralize Tinted Lip Balm packs lips with moisture, while adding the right pop of colour and shine. And, because eventually the mittens will come off, Nail Lacquer in Dangerously Fun heats things up in blazing berry red."

Mineralize Skinfinish (Limited Edition)
  • Porcelain Pink – Soft pinky coral with gold veining (re-promote)
  • Stereo Rose – Coral with golden-bronze shimmering nuances (re-promote)

Mineralize Blush (Limited Edition)
  • Amber Glow – Warm peach
  • Gentle – Raspberry with gold pearlized pigments (re-promote)
  • Alpine Bronze – Mid-tone caramel

Mineralize Eye Shadow (Limited Edition)
  • Ice – Light peach base with white veining
  • Silver Birch – Grey base with peach veining
  • Fireside – Deep plum with grey veining
  • Frost at Midnight – Deep blue-grey base with purple veining
  • Winter Pursuit – Copper base with grey veining

Pro Longwear Eye Liner (New Permanent Items)
  • Black Ice – Rich black 
  • Rich Experience – True brown 
  • Mountain Air – Vibrant teal 
  • Night Trail – Deep navy blue 
  • Snow Shadow – Purple violet 

Mascara
  • Zoom Waterfast Lash – Black

Lipstick (Limited Edition)
  • Après Chic – Pinky brick red (Cremesheen)
  • Haute Altitude – Mid-tone blue pink (Amplified Creme)
  • Hot Chocolate – Mid-tone plum (Satin)
  • Cozy Up – Deep caramel (Matte)
  • Warm Companion – Beige with gold pearlized pigments (Frost)

Mineralize Tinted Lip Balm (Limited Edition)
  • Pure & Tender – Plumy creamy nude
  • Slightly Nude – Nudey coral with subtle pink pearlized pigments
  • Nice & Simple – Bronzy gold with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments
  • Rosy Romance – Bluish plum with subtle pink pearlized pigments
  • Stay Warm! – Creamy light pink

Nail Lacquer (Limited Edition)
  • Dangerously Fun – Berry tone blue red (Cream)
  • Hangin`Loose – Mid-tone pink nude (Cream) (re-promote)

Brushes
  • 187 Brush – Duo Fibre Face Brush (Natural / Synthetic Fibre)
  • 287 Brush – Duo Fibre Eye Shadow Brush (Natural / Synthetic Fibre)

What do you think of this collection? 

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Pick your Eyeshadow Palette GIVEAWAY! UD Naked Palettes and More!

Pick your Eyeshadow Palette Giveaway!

Hey Everyone! A few days ago I hit 5,000 followers on Google Friend Connect, so I thought it'd be the perfect time for a giveaway! I was originally going to give away one of the Urban Decay Naked Palettes, but because of their popularity, many already own them, I thought it'd be fun to give you the choice between a few different palettes! Additionally, I'm going to toss in some of my favorite products from the drugstore.

The winner will receive:

  • Your choice from the following: Urban Decay Naked Palette, Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette, Urban Decay Smoked Palette, Too Faced The Return of the Sexy Eyeshadow Palette and Laura Mercier Artist's for Eyes Palette. 
  • Some of my favorite makeup items from the drugstore as an added bonus!

There are two ways to enter:

  • Leave a comment on this post about anything you'd like. Did you order anything from the MAC Glamour Daze Collection? Which websites are your daily regulars? What's on your nails right now? Did you collect anything when you were younger? Or simply write Enter me! This will yield (1) entry. *If you comment anonymously, please leave your name or e-mail. 
  • Follow me on Twitter @nattyngeorge. I have to bribe you somehow, right? If you're already following me, tweet about the giveaway! For example: Enter @nattyngeorge giveaway for a chance to win your eyeshadow palette of choice! http://www.missnattysbeautydiary.com/2012/10/pick-your-eyeshadow-palette-giveaway-ud.html. This will yield (1) additional entry.

Terms and Conditions:

  • This giveaway will run for one week, and the deadline to enter will be on Thursday  November 1st at 11:59 PM (CST). 
  • For fairness, the winner will be chosen at random using random.org.
  • Winner will be announced within 48 hours of the deadline. 
  • This giveaway is open internationally. I will ship anywhere in the world.
  • You must permission from a parent or guardian to enter if you are under the age of 18 in most states (with the exception of Alabama and Nebraska, 19; Mississippi, 21).
  • The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Thank you all for your continued support! It means the world to me!

Tips on How to Wear a Berry Lip this Fall!

Berry Colored Lips for the Fall

Now that it's Fall, it's time to pull out your darker lipstick shades from hibernation. Wearing a dark lipstick could be very intimidating. I know it took me a long time to feel comfortable with wearing darker colored lipsticks, but now I can't get enough of them!  In this post, I've written out some tips to keep in mind when wearing a berry lip. I've included a slideshow at the end of this post for inspiration.

Your Lips should be the Focal Point

Simplicity is key whenever you're wearing a bold lip because you want your lips to be the star of the show. When wearing a bold lip, keep the eyes clean by adding a matte nude shade to the lids (I like using MAC Brule eyeshadow) to even out the color of the lids and hide any redness or veins. Apply a black liquid liner the upper lash line and wing it out if you'd like sort of the pin-up look. For something a little more natural, line your lid with a soft black pencil eyeliner and use a small brush to smudge/soften the line. If you're fair skinned, you might want to use a dark brown instead of black as sometimes black can look too harsh with this look. I love voluminous lashes with this look, so apply lots of mascara to the upper and lower lash line. To add a glamorous girly touch, apply false lashes snipped in half to the outer end of your eyes. Anything more might look too dramatic.

Pick Neutral Eyeshadows

I you want a little something extra on your eyes, opt for neutral shades. Neutral shadows pair great with plum, wine and cranberry lipstick shades. Think ivory, champagne, silver, taupe, ashy browns, charcoal, plum, etc. If your lipstick has red tones to it, gold and warm brown work great.

Here's a little example of shades I'd pair with a berry lip. I'd pick two colors at the most - one shade all over my lid in a sheer layer and a second shade in the crease, or as a highlight.

Swatches from left to right: Urban Decay Half Baked, MAC Electra, Highlight from Dior 5 Golds Quint, MAC Retrospeck, Urban Decay Sidecar, MAC Jardin Aires Pigment, MAC Patina Eyeshadow, MAC Gold Stroke Pigment, L'Oreal Bronzed Taupe Infallible Eyeshadow, MAC Soba Eyeshadow, MAC Satin Taupe, MAC Maroon Pigment, Nars Galapagos, Urban Decay Gunmetal, MAC Silver Ring, Generic Purple Eyeshadow.

Monday, October 22, 2012

For a Quick Fix, Try Mixing your MAC Pro Longwear Concealer with your Favorite Moisturizer!


Some days when I'm in a rush or just need to run a couple of errands and don't feel like putting on my full-face, I always look to my concealers for a quick fix. Concealing my under eyes is always a must, and then sometimes I dab a little concealer on each area of my face and blend with a large brush. Then pop a little blush or bronzer on my cheeks and I'm out the door.

So, a couple days ago when I was on my way out the door and didn't want to scare the general public, I decided to try out a recommendation from LoveMelisaMichelle (thanks, girl!) in her recent Flawless Face video. She mixed her favorite moisturizer with MAC Pro Longwear Concealer ($18) for a great lightweight light-medium coverage foundation.

I would have never thought of it before because MAC Pro Longwear Concealer isn't really what I'd call full coverage (although it does provide a very good medium), but somehow, it morphs into a (much better) second skin once combined with a moisturizer.

I like to take one pump and mix it with equal parts moisturizer and then apply it to my face with my fingers, working it into the skin as I would a moisturizer. MAC Pro Longwear Concealer sets very quick, and doesn't go too far when you try spreading it alone, so it really needs the combination of the moisturizer to be able to smooth it out all over your face and give you the extra time to blend. I like adding in a drop of illuminator too to make my skin glow.

It feels like I have nothing on my face, yet my skin looks naturally perfected. It's the perfect "no-foundation" foundation. Depending on your moisturizer, it may make your skin shine after several hours, so make sure to set with a little powder.

I absolutely love this combo, and highly recommend trying it if you own MAC Pro Longwear Concealer. After all, if you already own it, you have nothing to lose. I've tried this with other concealers, but I like this combo the best.

Hope your Monday is a little brighter than mine! What's up with this rain?!

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Last Chance for 40% Off at Drugstore.com!

40% Off All Makeup @ Drugstore.com

The 40% Off sale on all makeup at Drugstore.com is wrapping up, so if you have any drugstore staples or favorites, now is the time to buy! I'm heading over there right now to take a look. Also, shipping is free on orders over $25! Sale ends tonight! Use code: MAKEUP40.

*Apparently, the 40% doesn't work on everything in the makeup department as advertised. I was going to pick up a few Real Techiques Brushes, but the code didn't work. I thought maybe it only works on actual makeup, but it did work for instance on makeup remover wipes. I wasn't able to locate the fine print on the website.

Also, if you need to grab any goodies from Tarte Cosmetics, make sure to place your orders before Oct. 21 @ 11:59 ET for 20% with code: TREAT.

Unfortunately, I just noticed that there are exclusions, one of which is the Fantastic Foursome set pictured above. *sigh* See the website for the fine print. (In the top left hand corner of the page where it mentions the sale, click "*click for details")

Chanel Pink Explosion Joues Contraste Blush Review, Photos and Swatches!

Chanel Pink Explosion Joues Contraste Blush

Chanel Pink Explosion Joues Contraste Blush ($43) is a medium-toned cool pink with fine shimmer. It's not overly cool, so thankfully it works really well on my warm skin. It provides that dolly pink cheek that pairs well with neutral and cool eyeshadows (purples, taupe, etc).

Mine is the Euro (original 2010) version, which is a baked powder as opposed to the version you'd get from the Chanel counters in the US, which is the standard pressed-powder version. There are slight differences - in general, the baked version isn't as pigmented with one swipe and isn't as soft. I prefer the US version. (You can view a comparison on Cafe Makeup.)

If you know me by now, I find any form of pink color cosmetics hard to resist and I love, love, love Joues Contraste Blushes. Pink Explosion has been on my wishlist for a while now, so when I spotted it in a blog sale, I jumped on it! (Hi Risa!) Anyways, who wouldn't love a product named Pink Explosion?

The pigmentation is good - it's light, but buildable and what you'd want from a blush that's so pink. I'm actually less inclined to use some of my really pigmented blushes (Nars for instance) because I tend to use too heavy of a hand. With my Joues Contraste Blushes, I never go overboard - but if I do, the color blends so well into my skin that it never looks unnatural.


Swatched heavily on the left and lightly on the right.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer Review & Photos!

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer 

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer ($45) was created to mimic the appearance of healthy, radiant skin. It's a cream foundation and concealer wrapped up in one product. Containing honey and jojoba oil, this foundation is creamy, moisturizing and creates a soft, natural dewy finish.

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer is available in (16) shades: SX01, SX02, SX03, SX04, SX05, SX06, SX07, SX08, SX09, SX10, SX11, SX12, SX13, SX14, SX15 and SX16.

I chose SX08, which is a warm medium shade with strong yellow undertones. It's suitable for the MAC NC35 coloring.

The texture of this cream is a bit different than other cream products I've used. It compares to the creaminess/goopiness of Benefit Erase Paste, but it's more dense and not as tacky. For instance, it's absolutely nothing like MAC Studio Finish Concealer (MAC Full Coverage Foundation) or Cinema Secrets/Graftobian/Ben Nye Foundations which are like the standard cream compact makeup - often dry and dense or with a similar consistency to a concealer stick. It's so much more creamy - luxuriously creamy, but it's also very thick/dense. Because of this, you need a tiny amount (about 1/4 the size of a pea or less) to provide full coverage to the entire face.

Since the formula is so concentrated, it doesn't move around well on dry skin. Whenever wearing this foundation, moisturizing and/or priming the face is an essential step. I usually use a silicone based primer for it to spread better, or apply a generous amount of moisturizer. Then, I like taking a concealer brush and wiping a line of product on each cheek, my chin and forehead. Then, I take a duo-fiber brush and with small circular motions blend it in completely. After it's blended, I like taking a facial mist and spritzing my face and using the duo-fiber brush again buff my face more to make sure everything is perfectly blended.

The result is completely flawless skin that actually looks like skin.


(Wearing Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer SX08)

Thursday, October 18, 2012

MAC Pro Products now Available Online!

MAC PRO Products Now Available Online!

Starting today, you can now purchase MAC Pro products online at MAC Cosmetics. So no more having to drive to your nearest MAC Pro store (which many of us don't have access to) or calling the 1-800 number to place an order.

I never really want to go through the hassle of buying over the phone, so I haven't tried too many pro products, but I'm looking forward to it now since I can purchase all of my MAC in one place!

You don't have to be a makeup artist or have a membership to purchase MAC Pro products.

Any Pro products you can recommend?

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Physician's Formula Boost Your Beauty Giveaway & Contest!


I partnered up with Physicians Formula to bring the readers of Miss Natty's Beauty Diary a fabulous giveaway in order to spread the word of their amazing Boost Your Beauty Makeup Challenge.

The makers behind the brand would like to know What do you do to boost your beauty using Physicians Formula? If you have any favorite products by Physician's Formula, it shouldn't be hard! Maybe you like using Physicians Formula Shimmer Stripes to boost your radiance, making your skin glisten and glow. Or, perhaps you enjoy using the glamorous compact of Physicians Formula pH Matchmaker Blush (the compact has LED lights!) for an ultra long-lasting pink cheek that makes you feel extra feminine and pretty. Entering is easy and only takes a minute or two. Just upload a photo of yourself and enter you answer in the comments box.

The Physicians Formula Makeup Challenge will run till Decemeber 16th. The grand-prize is a pair of heart shaped diamond stud earrings, valued at approx. $4,000! Plus, a variety of Physician's Formula products. In addition, two pairs of diamond stud earrings will be awarded to random participants. (read more..)


As a thank you for reading (and hopefully entering), Physicians Formula is going to reward one of my readers with a few goodies!

The winner will receive:

There are two ways to enter:

  • Leave a comment on this post about anything you'd like. What would you like to see more of on Miss Natty's Beauty Diary? (I love helpful feedback!) What's on your makeup wishlist? When it comes to holiday shopping do you buy in advance or last minute? (This will yield (1) entry.) *If for some reason you can't or do not want to comment here, you may email me, post on my facebook or twitter.
  • Enter the Physicians Formula Boost Your Beauty Makeup Challenge, and let me know in the comments once you've done so! (This will yield (2) entries.)
(You have an opportunity to have (3) entries in total, which will give you a much better chance to win!)

Terms and Conditions:

  • This giveaway will run for two weeks, and the deadline to enter will be on Tuesday, October 30th at 11:59 PM (CST). 
  • For fairness, the winner will be chosen at random using random.org.
  • Winner will be announced within 48 hours of the deadline. 
  • Open to residents of the US only.
  • You must permission from a parent or guardian to enter if you are under the age of 18 in most states (with the exception of Alabama and Nebraska, 19; Mississippi, 21).
*Depending on the outcome of this giveaway, I may pick more than one winner. 

NYX Stella Lipstick Review, Photos, Swatches and Comparisons!

nyx stella lipstick

NYX Stella Round Lipstick

NYX Stella Lipstick ($4) is a soft, yet vibrant watermelon pink. Although not hugely noticeable, it contains some fine silver shimmer. On the lips, you can see small flecks of glitter here and there, but it's not a shimmery shade overall.

Because of my warm skintone, I'm very partial to watermelon (or sometimes I call them flamingo) pinks - basically meaning a pink with yellow (warm) undertones.

In my experience, NYX Round Lipsticks are creamy, pigmented and are very lightweight on the lips. They have almost a slippery texture due to the creamy, yet very lightweight texture. Stella is actually a bit different than the typical Round Lipstick I'm use to. Unless I happened to fall upon a dud, it's slightly drier in texture and has a semi-matte finish. The pigmentation is light with one swipe, but buildable to opaque when layered.

It has a very striking resemblance to MAC Viva Glam Nicki. Nicki is more pigmented with one layer, but when applied sheer, they look almost the same. When built, the differences are barely detectable - Nicki is slightly darker and pinker in tone and Stella is the slightest bit warmer. Illamasqua Fable Lipstick is somewhat similar, but lighter (more pastel) in tone. Comparisons at the end of this post.

NYX Round Lipsticks are a great buy as they are cheap, perform well and come in a huge variety of shades. How "huge" do you ask? Well, as of right now there are 144 shades in the line. Yes, you read that correctly. There is a shade for everyone, and if you ever dreamt of certain shade, you'll most likely find it in the NYX Round Lipstick range.

NYX Stella Lipstick

NYX Stella Lipstick on my lips.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Lorac on Hautelook!

Lorac Cosmetics on Hautelook 10/15

If you're a member of Hautelook, make sure to check out the Beauty section, because for today only, you can purchase some Lorac cosmetics for a very discounted price! Some of the palettes would make great stocking stuffers!

If you're not familiar with Hautelook, it's a website with "flash sales". Each day at 8 AM Pacific, shop new sale events featuring brand names in women's and men's fashion and accessories, beauty, kids' apparel and toys, and home décor at up to 75% off. The good stuff sells out quickly, and items only stay in your cart for 15 minutes before they automatically get removed, where they will be available again for others to purchase. Membership is free. It's a highly addicting site!

Step by Step Eyebrow Filling Tutorial.

How to Fill in the Eyebrows

Everyone uses different brow filling methods - some swear soley by pencils, while others prefer brow powders. You may even prefer a cream product (such as a brown cream liner) or a brow-marker (such as Milani Brow Tint Pen). I love switching up products all of the time, so my brow routine changes often. Today, I'm going to go through one way I fill in my brows using both an eyebrow pencil and an eyebrow powder.

Don't feel the need to go run out and purchase a brow powder - Any matte brown eyeshadow similar to your hair color will do. Although we all favor and thrive for eyeshadows with lots of pigment, we don't necessarily look for the same in our brow products because we want our brows to look to look natural. So, finding an inexpensive shadow at the drugstore should be a sinch. And, if you don't own an eyebrow pencil, you can use a brown eyeliner - but don't apply it straight on as it can look too intense for your brows. Scribble on the back of your hand, and run your brush through the product for a more natural look (or you can just lightly rub your brush across the tip of the pencil).

I don't always use both products, but I like combining both because the pencil yields a very precise, clean line, whereas the brow powder gives a softer, more natural diffused line. The result is a very clean and precise brow, yet it's not as clean/chiseled as it would be if only a pencil was used.


Products I used in this tutorial-
Anastasia Highlighting Brow Kit
MAC Eyebrows (Pencil) in the shade Spiked
MAC Studio Finish Concealer
MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush
MAC 194 Concealer Brush
E.L.F. Eyelash and Brow Wand (Spoolie)
Tweezerman Brow Shaping Scissors
Revlon Tweezers
Eyebrow Razor

Here's the classic diagram of where your brows should ideally start, arch and end. Since we all have different face shapes, natural brow shapes, etc, this figure might not work for everyone. It's often referred to as the ideal brow - with the beginning of the brow lining up with the side of your nose (if you hold a pencil vertical to your nose, it should line up with the beginning of your brows). But depending on the symmetry of your nose, placement of the eyes (if they are very far apart for instance), etc, this method may not work. Instead, use your tear-ducts as a reference of where your brows should start. The arch should ideally line up with the edge of your iris. Your brow should ideally end diagonal (45 degrees) from the outer corner of your eye.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Berry Lips.


Sporting the Fall season berry lip today! I mentioned in my recent E.L.F. Studio HD Creme Blush Review that I love the way Showstopper looks on my lips, and I wore it out today, so I snapped a quick photo. I'm also wearing The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer that I reviewed in my previous post and E.L.F. Headliner HD Blush (love!)

I can't get enough of the vampy plum lip, so I went to Target and picked up a handful of different lip products. I should be doing a post soon on them.. Berry on a Budget maybe?


Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer Review, Photos and Swatches!

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer ($24) is a warm honey bronze/caramel colored bronzer, highlighter, eyeshadow and all-over body shimmer wrapped up in one product. Sweep it on your lids for a wash of gold or dust it on your cheeks for a sunkissed glow. It is talc, oil and paraben free!

After reading Temptalia's review (she rated this product an A+!) I was eager to try this product, despite not really caring for shimmery cheek products. But, when I spotted a bunch of TheBalm products on the clearance rack at TJMaxx last year, I didn't hesitate to grab a couple of these.

I could see what the hype is about, especially because of the texture of the powder. It's very finely milled and super smooth which makes it very easy to blend out on the cheeks. It's also very pigmented, so like the description states, you can easily use it as an eyeshadow as well, or use a large fluffy powder brush and dust it on your skin for added warmth and glow. I sometimes like taking one of my larger brushes and dusting it on my neck and decollete and it looks so pretty!

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer

The Balm Betty-Lou Manizer Bronzer

the balm betty-lou manizer swatches
On the left is a very heavy swatch with a foundation brush and on the right is a light swatch with a blush brush. You can see that it can go from really natural and subtle to really intense in color. (sunlight)

Friday, October 12, 2012

Sephora Fan Friday + Final Days or Urban Decay F&F!


Did you know that every Friday on Sephora's Facebook page there is a new deal or coupon code unleashed  exclusively for Facebook fans before anyone else? About half of the time I forget to check, this Friday you get an early chance to nab the new Gucci Premiere Deluxe Mini that will be available on orders of $25. Use code: GUCCIFAN.


The fragrance opens with the luxury and exuberance of a vintage champagne. A burst of effervescent bergamot fused with feminine and celebratory orange blossom conveys the heady excitement of the red carpet entrance. At the scent's core nestle, the brilliant white flowers of an intense bouquet, laced with a magnetically sensual modern musk. The timeless allure of the leading lady, the perfect balance of power and sensuality, inspires a collective captured breath. The fragrance's warm and indulgent foundation rests in a beguiling cocktail of subtly smoky leather and creamy balsamic woods that epitomizes absolute glamour.
Notes: Bergamot, Orange Blossom, White Flower, Musk, Leather, Wood.
View the full sized product here.



There are two days left to receive 20% off your order at Urban Decay online. Ends tomorrow (10/13) at midnight. Use code: FFHOLIDAY12. There are no exclusions! You can even use the code on sale items, so I think I'm going to take the opportunity to try a few products - the All Nighter Setting Spray XL size is on sale for $18, and with the coupon, it makes the price a little over $14. That's just a couple dollars more than the travel size bottle @ Sephora for over 17 times more product! Sweet deal.


Save 20% off all items on Cherryculture for two more days! Sale ends Sunday (10/14). Pick up your favorites from NYX, Milani and more. Use code: PINK20.

Also, Illamasqua is currently offering FREE UK and International Shipping through 10/15 (no minimum purchase required). Also, use code: LIKE15 for 15% off your order. (Thanks Kristina!)

Additional coupon codes available on the Makeup Sales and Coupon Codes tab at the top of the page.

Any sales to share? Let me know in the comments!

Thursday, October 11, 2012

E.L.F. Studio Mascara Primer Review!

E.L.F. Studio Mascara Primer

E.L.F. Studio Mascara Primer ($3) is a nourishing mascara primer that will add length and volume when applied to your lashes prior to your mascara. Boost the performance of any of your favorite mascaras and you'll be hooked! Pro-Vitamin B5, Hydrolyzed Wheat and Soy Protein-enriched condition your lashes, which will make them stronger over time.

Mascara Primer is a MUST for me, and I rarely ever go without it. It's something I've been hooked on for the past couple of years and when I don't use one, it makes me think that every mascara on the market is mediocre.

I have yet to find a mascara primer that works well and is affordable, so when I saw that E.L.F. now has a mascara primer with very high reviews, I was excited to give it a try.



I always make sure to curl my lashes really well before ever applying a base. I use a Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler, which has been my favorite curler for years.

After curling my lashes, I apply the base as I would a regular mascara, by brushing my lashes from base to end several times until my lashes are evenly coated in product. Then I like to wait a minute or so, and with the very tip of the brush, run it along the ends of my lashes to extend my lashes out, making them look a little longer. Then, I let my lashes completely dry for one minute. (**I've found that if I don't wait for the base to fully dry, it will completely wipe off when I apply my mascara.)

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

NYX Irish Coffee Jumbo Lip Pencil Review, Photos and Swatches!

nyx irish coffee jumbo lip pencil

NYX Irish Coffee Jumbo Lip Pencil

NYX Irish Coffee Jumbo Lip Pencil ($4.50) is a peachy-pink nude lip liner and lipstick all-in-one. It's the consistency of a creamy lipstick, but because of the small tip, you can apply it precisely to the edges of your lips without ending up with a smeary pout. This is particularly helpful with the darker shades that are more noticeable.

The color reminds me a little bit of NYX Orange Soda or similar peachy-pink, light cream shades. Since it's such a light shade, I find it works best when applied in a few light layers over a moisturizing lip balm or in conjunction with a clear or sheer gloss to sheer out the color and help it sit better on the lips. I wouldn't wear this alone, as when there isn't anything else on my lips, it accentuates dryness and can look uneven (unless I apply one sheer layer).

It's comfortable on the lips, and is similar in texture to the NYX Round Lipsticks. They are thin and have a glossy feel to them and a similar shiny finish. I don't find them particularly drying.

The tip doesn't wear down too quick, which is a good thing. I've had some lip pencils that wear down very quickly, and it's a pain having to sharpen all of the time.

nyx irish coffee swatch
Swatch of NYX Irish Coffee Jumbo Lip Pencil

NYX Irish Coffee Swatch
NYX Irish Coffee on my lips (I applied a layer of clear lip gloss first, so it's a bit shinier than usual)