I heart Betsey Johnson Accessories.

Betsey Johnson has been one of my favorite brands for accessories, ever since I was introduced to the brand back in 2006, while working at a higher-end department store.

Her style is very brash, over-the-top and definitely one-of-a-kind. I love the bows, hearts, flowers, leopard print, poofs, peplums, sequins, glitter and more!

One thing I love about Betsey Johnson is that it's a brand that's widely available, and can be found at many of my local discounted stores, such as Nordstrom Rack, Marshalls, TJMaxx, Loehman's, etc, for a fraction of the retail price. I always love raiding the racks for hot pink tags. ;)

Here are a couple cold weather accessories I picked up this Winter..

CONTINUE READING!

Did you sign up for Shoemint?

If many of you are on top of the newest launches, I'm sure you've already heard of Shoemint. But for those of you that haven't, I thought I'd quickly share, because I'm so excited about it!

Since Shoedazzle (were they the first ones?), there have been so many companies (celebrity collaborated) following the popular trend of a "monthly subscription" service, that's not for a magazine, but a pair of shoes, a box of beauty samples, fashion jewelry, clothing and more. What's more fun than that?

If you're familiar with the mint companies, Jewelmint, Stylemint and Beautymint are existing monthly subscription services; Jewelmint, offering unique designs of fashion jewelry, Stylemint, offering high quality casual t-shirts and Beautymint, offering a skincare system. All of which are personalized to fit your individual wants and needs. 

Shoemint is the newest mint, and launched on Black Friday. 

The style of fashion icon Rachel Bilson, the vision of celebrated stylist Nicole Chavez, and the shoe-making expertise of the legendary Steve Madden, combine to bring you ShoeMint - a shoe shopping experience unlike any other.

Step into the impeccable style and craftsmanship of an inspired luxury shoe you could pay hundreds of dollars for -without having to.

It works the same as the other sites, and starts out with taking a "style quiz", which is a quick, multiple-choice quiz to learn your personal style. Based on your answers, the website will generate a "showroom" for you of the things that should suit your taste. You won't be charged to join, and take the style quiz. You will only be charged after your first purchase. Each month, your selection changes, and you have the choice whether to "skip" the month and not purchase anything, or you will be charged the monthly fee and your account will receive credit for one purchase. Not too complicated right? I swear it's less complicated than it sounds.

The monthly price for Shoemint is $79.98. It sounds expensive, but the shoes are real quality leather, suede and stitching and entail trendy, high-end designs. Similar style shoes will retail for at least double the price. And, with all of the mint sites, there are always coupon codes. (For ref, I'll never make a purchase from any of the sites without a good coupon code.)

CONTINUE READING FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & A DISCOUNT CODE!

Covergirl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation Review!

Covergirl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Designed with AquaCurrent Science, this vitamin-enriched formula directs moisture to your skin's surface to improve its condition over time, while giving smooth, even coverage that makes imperfections virtually vanish before your eyes. This solid makeup transforms into a liquid during application, then dries to an even, powder-light finish.

-Oil-Free and Noncomedogenic (won't clog pores)
-SPF 15 UVA/UVB Sunscreen
-Vitamins B3, B5, and E

There are fifteen (15) shades in total, and considering the compact is packaged closed (yes, the compact is shut and is packaged in plastic so you can't see the color), you'd pretty much have to play the guessing game when picking a shade at the store. The shades are as follows: Ivory 705, Classic Ivory 710, Natural Ivory 715, Creamy Natural 720, Buff Beige 725, Classic Beige 730, Medium Light 735, Natural Beige 740, Warm Beige 745, Creamy Beige 750, Soft Honey 755, Classic Tan 760, Tawny 765, Toasted Almond 770 and Soft Sable 775. Unfortunately, if you have very fair skin or deep-dark skin, there may not be a match for you. The main factor that brings down the rating of this foundation is the shade selection. There aren't enough golden/yellow shades, and many of the shades are too neutral (gray) or too pink. I was lucky to find a match for my non-tanned skin; Classic Ivory, which is a good MAC NC20 color match. It's also said to match NW20. From reviews, I've read that Buff Beige is good for NC25.

Classic Ivory

My Current Skincare Routine.

It's been a while since I posted a skincare routine (since this past March) and for the past several months I've been following the same routine and it's been keeping my skin in good shape.

MY SKIN TYPE: My skin type year round is typically in the normal range, as I rarely suffer from dryness or excess oily skin. My skin is generally fairly clear with the exception of some minor, past blemish marks and light sun spots on my upper cheeks. My skin is also sensitive, and prone to break-outs. My breakouts usually occur on my lower cheeks.

CLEANSERS

(FACE) 
-Olay Pro-X Exfoliating Brush (previously mentioned here)
-Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
(EYES)
-100% Pure Jojoba Oil
-Baby Oil

BLEMISH CONTROL
-Stridex Maximum Strength Daily Care Acne Pads

EXFOLIATE
-Ellen Lange Peel Accelerator Pads (from the Express Retexturizing Peel Kit, reviewed here)

TREATMENTS/SERUMS

-Reviva Labs Hyaluronic Acid Serum (previously reviewed here) OR Your Best Face Skincare Hydrate B Serum, which are both very similar.
-Clarins Vital Light Serum

MOISTURIZER

(NIGHT)
-Reviva Labs Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C Ester, DMAE Night Cream (previously reviewed here)
-100% Pure Argan Oil
(DAY)
-DDF Ultra-lite Moisturizing Dew (previously reviewed here)
(EYE AREA)
-Unrefined Shea Butter

VERY DRY SKIN

-Unrefined Shea Butter

CHAPPED LIPS

-Smith's Rosebud Salve

CONTINUE READING FOR MY ROUTINE!

NOTD: Barielle Sailors Delight; A Perfect Pink!

Two (2) Coats of Barielle Sailors Delight and One (1) Coat of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat

Barielle Sailors Delight is described on the Barielle website as a "dusty mauve cream". I would describe it as a medium-toned, neutral pink. In some lighting, the neutral undertone gives it an almost lilac pink appearance. I find it a little difficult finding the correct shade of pink that isn't too bright, too light or dark, and applies opaque. A pink that is "work friendly".

There's nothing obnoxious about this pink. It's slightly vivid, yet perfectly muted, and it's not too "mauve" where it's ages your hands. Application is really good, it applies opaque from the start, and is completely opaque with two coats. As far as the wear goes, I'll have to wait and see!

Barielle's Nail Polishes are formaldehyde free, toluene free, D8P free and pregnancy safe.

Barielle Nail Polish and Products can be found at various beauty supply stores and retailers around the US. For a list of locations, click here. I've spotted Barielle at my local TJMaxx/Marshalls stores and some ULTA locations. I purchased this bottle at ULTA on clearance for $2.99.

Maybelline Superstay 24 HR Makeup Review!

Maybelline Superstay 24 HR Makeup

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Foundation gives superior coverage and provides 24-hour wear. Superstay 24HR Makeup by Maybelline incorporates a Micro-Flex technology formulated to withstand heat, sweat and humidity - yet stays comfortable and looks flawless. Oil-free makeup will not transfer. Dermatologist tested. Fragrance Free. Suitable for all skin types.

There are twelve (12) shades in total, so finding your perfect match may be a little difficult with the limited shade selection. The shades are as follows: Porcelain Ivory, Sand Beige, Classic Ivory, Natural Beige, Nude, Classic Beige, Pure Beige, Natural Tan, True Beige, Honey Beige, Caramel and Cocoa. I purchased this foundation because I was in need of a foundation to wear when I'm not tan, so I chose the shade "Sand Beige", which seems to be around the MAC NC20 coloring.

Recent Swag. (Jeffrey Campbell, Betsey Johnson, F21 & More)

Hey Everyone!

I thought it would be fun to post a haul of some accessories I've acquired in the past couple of months. It's all kind of random, but I love when other bloggers have posts like these ;)

I was hoping to link several of the items back to the websites, but every single Forever 21 item I purchased isn't listed on the website. I'm guessing a big majority of accessories became sold out during their recent 30% off sale. So, I apologize in advance for that!

READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS...

It was love at first swipe! Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blush in Natural!

Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blush

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 

-Ultra-soft and blendable blushing powder features a fresh and vibrant mix of blushing tones infused with a pop of color to create a healthy glow.
-Multi-reflective pearls provide a soft iridescence to highlight contour and add radiance to cheeks.
-Infused with our Happy Boost Blend, featuring Happy Skin and Euphoryl, natural plant extracts which have been shown to promote a feeling of happiness by mimicking the effect of Endorphins and helping protect the skin from environmental stress.
-The sweet scent of Violet provides a feeling of joy each time you apply.

Hypoallergenic. Non-comedogenic. Paraben-free. Dermatologist approved.

READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS, SWATCHES & MY REVIEW!

Oldie but Goodie: Dior Five Golds 5-Colour Eyeshadow Palette + Swatches!

Dior Five Golds 5-Colour Eyeshadow

I typically don't like posting about products that are limited edition from old collections or that are discontinued, but I had to make an exception for Dior's Five Golds Quint. I got a hold of this beauty in a blog sale for a fraction of the price, and I'm loving it!

Five Golds was one of the two, 5-Colour Eyeshadow palettes available last winter from Dior's 2010 Holiday Collection. Five Golds includes a charcoal black with silver sparkles (reminiscent of MAC Black Tied); metallic copper-gold; metallic medium-toned bronzed brown; metallic silver and a pale, shimmery golden ivory.

READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL INFO, PHOTOS AND SWATCHES!

Revlon Age Defying with DNA Advantage Foundation Review!

Revlon Age Defying with DNA Advantage Foundation

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: New Revlon Age Defying with DNA Advantage Cream Makeup combines makeup + powerful anti-aging skincare to help protect skin's DNA to fight the signs of aging. 96% of women saw flawless, younger-looking skin in two weeks. Lines and wrinkles are visibly diminished while skin is refreshed, hydrated, revitalized. SPF 20.

Sounds far fetched, doesn't it? Well, I particularly didn't pick this foundation up for it's anti-aging properties, as I don't have very visible signs of aging yet. You can say that I'm a fan of Revlon, and their foundations, so when I found an incredible sale on this new foundation, I had to pick one up. What I really liked about it is that it has a SPF of 20, and any extra SPF in my skincare is always a bonus (as long as I'm not being photographed.. white cast - eek!!)

A huge thank you..

Before I start getting back into my "normal" posts, I'd like to thank you all for your amazing comments on my last post. I didn't expect to receive so many responses, especially such detailed, sincere and heartfelt messages.

You have all made me so incredibly happy. It's so comforting to know that some of you consider me a friend, even if we've never spoken to one another and actually care enough about me to leave such kind words. It just amazes me how many great people there are out there and I feel so fortunate to be able to connect to some of you and share my life with you. You are all amazing - thank you for being there for me and for giving me strength and motivation to do what I love.

-Natty

A piece of me died with you, Dad...

Hey Everyone,

I'm really sorry for the lack of updates. It's been a month, and I haven't mentioned why, or what was the reason behind my hiatus. Although I really wanted to share with you all what I've been feeling, I've been putting off this post day after day. Mainly because talking about it tosses me into the reality of it, which I still can't believe it yet. Also, I've been unsure of how deep I should really go when talking about it. It's really hard for me not to go deep, because it's something that is so immersed in my soul.

READ MORE TO CONTINUE READING...

My new hair color + a couple photos of Rocky :)

I ended up dying my hair last night with the hair dye I posted about yesterday. It was the Clairol Nice n' Easy Colorblend Foam in the shade #4 Dark Brown. Prior to dying my hair, my hair color was an ashy, medium brown with a bunch of golden brown-auburn tones towards the bottom. This dye changed my color to a very dark, rich brown. I really like it, and I'm hoping it's not going to fade considerably once I wash my hair. 

READ MORE..

A post full of random-ness. My gray hair, The new Revlon foundation, Etc.

(Image Source)

Okay, the image at the bottom is completely random (well, more random than the first one - kinda?!) but I thought it was totally cute.

Anyway, what that arrow pointing to is, one crazy strand of gray (snow white, actually) hair, trying to steal the show today. haha!

One thing that I always put off is dying my hair. I really don't like dying my hair. It's a pure nuisance to me. But, it seems these days I can't get away with not dying my hair for months at a time like I use to, or I'll have a ton of these little grays shining through my bangs. Honestly, it really isn't a big deal and I'm not really freaking out about it - just really surprised!

READ MORE..

First Impressions + partial review: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer!

Some of you maybe remembered, last week I stopped in at Sephora on the search for a tinted moisturizer. I've never used one prior, but my curiosity got the best of me, and I picked up a sample of Laura Mercier's Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer. (original post here)

Laura Mercier makes two formulations of the tinted moisturizers, one containing oil and one that is oil free. Both formulations have the same shade range and same SPF (20). I wasn't sure which one to choose, but when I told the Sephora Sales Associate that I have sensitive/prone to breakouts skin, she recommended I try the oil free version. I was matched to the shade "Sand".

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Oil Free Formula - This lightweight foundation that can be reapplied as necessary, offers sun protection for sensitive or acne prone skin, oil control, and provides hydration to prevent dryness.

Regular Formula - Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer is a sheer, lightweight formula with a hint of color you can use in place of foundation for a natural finish and a healthy glowing complexion. It contains a SPF 20 for the ultimate in anti-aging prevention.

(The oil free formula is described as a foundation, and the regular formula rather calls it a "formula" that can be used in place of a foundation. I'm guessing because the regular version acts as more of a moisturizer with a tint and with the oil free version, it's more of a "tint" that doesn't give off added moisture.)

Aside from the tinted moisturizer, I was given a sample of the oil free primer. Every time I've used the tinted moisturizer, I've always used the primer beforehand. The first time using this, I attempted to apply the tinted moisturizer with my fingers. That doesn't work too well. I was really surprised that the texture is rather thick and doesn't spread evenly. I resorted to using my Sigma F80 Flat Top Foundation brush, and it worked out much better. So I basically apply it the same way I would any foundation. Dot it all over my face and blend with my brush. Because it's sheer, I'll use a little more product than I'd normally wear with a heavier foundation. The tube is 1.7 oz, compared to most foundations weighing in at 1 oz, so you can afford to use a little more. On my normal skin, (not oily or dry, a little shine in the t-zone) the finish is a satin - light dewy (not greasy) finish. Most of the reviews I've read for this said it has a very dewy, even an oily finish. I didn't experience that. I do have to set with powder though, because it seems to highlight the pores on my cheeks and add shine to my nose and chin. It instantly transforms when I apply my Guerlain Meteorites (my setting powder) and buff it into my skin with a kabuki. The finish is absolutely gorgeous. It looks incredibly natural and completely undetectable on my face. It looks like I may of using a dusting of a very fine milled powder, but that's all. It lasts well through an 8 hour day with little fading by the time I wash my face.

Jewelmint Ever Frost Ring Review with Lots of Photos!

Jewelmint Ever Frost Ring

ITEM DESCRIPTION: Alpine trend alert! Get lost in a winter wonderland with this sleek design. Our 1” wide geometric ring boats pave crystal icing and pearly white enamel. Pulling off this piece yearlong is easy with its glowing 14k gold-plated sides. Give your closet a fresh spin, and live out your Snow White fantasy in the most modern way.

I can't really say all of the Jewelmint pieces are "me", but I'll usually find at least one piece a month that I really like. This month the only others I liked were the Western Dream Earrings, Lunar Blue Necklace and Silver Zip Bracelet. I've liked the Silver Zip Bracelet for a while now, and I feel like I'll regret not eventually getting it. I guess I'm just waiting for a good coupon code to come along (a really good coupon code).

I liked the Ever Frost Ring a lot in the photos, and I'm really happy with my choice. I love mixing metals and the fact that it's silver, gold and white, it's very versatile. I've been wearing it with both silver, gold and rose gold and it always matches great. I really like the way it looks on the same hand with my Rose Gold watch combined with a silver bracelet. It's really trendy, edgy and is definitely a statement ring. 

It seems very well crafted, and although it may look really heavy, it's actually pretty lightweight. My ring finger is a 6, but since I didn't know how the sizing would run, to be safe, I figured I'd order a 7. I'd most likely wear it on pointer finger or middle finger anyway. Well, I got the 7 and it falls right off my ring finger but fits fine on my pointer and middle finger - it's not very snug on either, so I believe it runs slightly large, if anything.

Did you order anything this month?

If you haven't heard of Jewelmint, check it out HERE. There are so many coupon codes out that it's hard to keep track of them all, but the best codes are always for first time purchases.

The best code I found for New Members/First Purchase is 60% OFF Your first piece with code: EXITPOP60. It's not stated when it expires (it may be 9/30). It will bring the $29.99 price tag down to $11.99 AND you get free shipping. Awesome deal.

For Existing Members, the best I've found is $8 OFF your next purchase with code: AEREE. You'll end up paying $21.99 with free shipping, which isn't too bad depending on the item you choose (some seem more worth it than others).

Happy Shopping!

Things I've been loving lately + FOTD!

1) Clarins Vital Light Serum - This is probably the best smelling serum I've ever owned. I've been using this for the past couple of weeks and my skin has been looking fabulous. I will have a full review to come soon, but so far, I'm obsessed with it. 

2) Dr. Brandt Dark Circles Away™ Collagen Eye Serum - I got a couple samples of this from Sephora and I've been using it every night. I really do see a reduction in my dark circles (temporary, of course) and it moisturizes really well. I'd love to purchase it, but at $55 for a 1/2 oz... errr, I doubt it. Hopefully I can grab some more samples.

3) Anastasia Clear Brow Gel  - Now that my brows are so thick, a brow gel is very necessary. Even though I love my MAC Brow Set for tinting my brows, it doesn't hold my un-ruly brows in place all day. So, I've been using a mini version of the Anastasia Brow Gel that came with a kit of mine and it's worked the best for me so far! I'll be purchasing a full-size once I go to ULTA. 

4) MAC Paint Pots I've been loving my MAC Paint Pots lately and for the past month, it's all I've been wearing on my eyes. They're easy and they last. I want more!

5) MAC 181SE Kabuki Brush - I got this in a recent swap and I've been using it every say for setting powder. It's a perfect brush to keep in my bad for touch ups. I'm going to try finding a back-up or two.. ;)

6) Real Techniques Blush Brush - This has become my favorite brush for applying blush. Everything about the brush is perfect. It's soft, the shape is perfect and it applies & blends my blush really well. 

7) Physician's Formula Eye Booster Eyeliner in Ultra-Black - I got this liner on a whim, and I'm so happy I did. I can confidently say this is my favorite liquid liner pen of all time. The tip is amazing and it makes applying eyeliner incredibly fast and easy. It also lasts all day!

8) Maybelline One by One and Maybelline The Falsie's - Mascaras I've been alternating between these two mascaras for the past month, and I like them a lot for dramatic lashes. I would re-purchase both! 

9) E.L.F Studio Conditioning Lip Balm in Peaceful Pink - I just started using this after having it for a few months. It's so moisturizing and the perfect pink for every day. It's for sure one of my favorite products from E.L.F. I just hate the darn packaging! Me + Lip Brushes = no bueno. 

10) Milani Lipstick in Rosehip - I was looking for a bright pink lipstick that is more pink than fuschia - which many bright pinks tend to lean toward, and I came across Rosehip. This is a definite must-have. I'll do a post on it soon, as you can't tell the true color from my FOTD below.. In the mean time, you can drool over Temptalia's swatch of it.

(Image Credit: Temptalia.com)

Here's a FOTD from the other day. I've pretty much been doing the same look for the past couple of weeks.

Face: 

MAC Select Moisturecover Concealer NW20 (under eyes, applied with my fingers)

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua B30 + 1/2 pump of Guerlain Parure Extreme in #3 for added coverage (applied with Coastal Scents Bionic Buffer Brush)

Ben Nye Neutral Set Powder (under eyes to set concealer, applied with a tapered blending brush)

Guerlain Meteorites in Mythic (to set foundation, applied with a kabuki brush)

MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder in Honey Rose (on my cheeks & bridge of my nose, applied with Sigma F50)

Physician's Formula Healthy Glow Bronzer (for added warmth and contour, applied with MAC #168 brush)

Eyes: 

MAC Rubenesque Paint Pot (all over my lids, applied with my fingers)

MAC Jardin Aires Pigment (all over my lid, on top of Rubenesque)

MAC Groundwork Paint Pot (smudged into my upper and lower lashline with a pencil brush)

MAC Quite Natural Paint Pot (smudged into my crease with a pencil brush, blending any harsh edges with my fingers)

Physician's Formula Eye Booster Eyeliner in Ultra Black (upper lashline)

Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Black (on my waterline)

Maybelline One by One Mascara

Brows:

MAC Eyebrow Retractable Crayon in Spiked

Anastasia Clear Brow Gel

Lips:

MAC Lipliner Pencil in Oak

E.L.F. Studio Conditioning Lip Balm in Peaceful Pink

Milani Lipstick in Rosehip (applied very sheerly)

Sally Hansen Extreme Lip Plumper (applied on top for shine)

Btw, the leopard scarf I'm wearing is from Forever 21. I purchased it last week, and I've been wearing it almost every day! Love it.

Review: Clarins Instant Definition Mascara!

Clarins Instant Definition Mascara

This month Clarins launched a few new products, one of them being the Instant Definition Mascara to add to their permanent line of mascaras. Clarins may not be a brand you'd naturally think of when it comes to mascara, as they only have a few to choose from - all of which, don't have too many reviews. But, this mascara is definitely worth mentioning.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Naturally volumise and thicken your lashes with the Clarins Instant Definition Mascara, a nourishing formulation with an innovative brush. The creamy texture creates a highly resistant film along each and every lash for day-long wear that doesn't flake or smudge. The barrel shape of the brush ensures completely even coverage from root to tip, and densely packed bristles of the nylon fibre brush ensure glossy volume every time. The added bonus? An elastomer bristle tip that works to separate and define the tinier lashes for perfect lash precision. Lashes are thickened and restructured, with enviable body and shine thanks to an intense concentration of colour-rich pigments. The repairing formulation strengthens the lashes as it colours them, with mineral-rich red and brown algae extracts as well as glycoproteins to keep lashes in great shape. Opthamologist and dermatologist tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Directions for use: Apply mascara along the whole length of lashes, from root to tip, with the fibre brush. With the elastomer brush, make up the smallest, shortest lashes at the inner and outer corner of eyes, including the bottom lashes. Separate lashes one by one and optimize distribution of the mascara.

On the US site, this mascara is available in one shade; 01 Intense Black. *EDIT: It's actually available in three (3) shades. Intensive Black, Intensive Brown and Intensive Blue.

The star of this mascara is the design of the brush. If you all liked the wand of Benefit's They're Real Mascara because of the little bristles at the tip of the wand, you'll really like this wand. It's your standard bristle wand, not too large, not too small and towards the end of the wand, the bristles are very short. The design makes it a synch to get to those smaller lashes, especially in the corners of your eye and bottom lashes.

The packaging is also very nice. It's a pale gold, squared tube with a little groove on the handle of the wand, which makes a nice little grip for your thumb while applying the mascara. (seen in the first photo) It's also reflective, so if you happened to forget a mirror, you can use the tube. (BTW, Do any of you have a mirror app on your phone? I tried using my boyfriends and I just had to laugh. I think if the creators can't figure out how to somehow "morph" the phone into a real mirror, I don't think they should have a mirror app, period. I cannot see a dang thing in a face-forward, crappy pixelated camera.) I'm always a fan of pretty packaging (as long as the actual product delivers), especially gold packaging or detailing, so for all of you make-up snobs, it's something chic to have in your cosmetic bag. ;)

The mascara has a bit of a wet formula, so when I apply it after I've curled my lashes, I usually manage to get mascara on my eyelids. It is of course avoidable if you apply it with your head slightly tiled back, rather than applying it straight-on in the mirror. Usually when I apply the mascara, I rarely have to dip my brush back in for one eye. The end of the wand picks up enough product to evenly distribute across the lashes. Aside from the brush easily reaching the corners, I love that I can get real precise and apply the mascara directly to the base of my lashes. It's a great mascara for length and volume. It's easily buildable with the constant brushing of the lashes. It also doesn't clump my lashes together, which is always a plus. It also keeps my lashes nice and pliable (not crispy), so I can easily add another coat or comb through them later in the day.

Here are my lashes with one good coat.

Lastly, it doesn't flake throughout the day, and I've only noticed a teeny bit of transfer (smudges) under my eyes after several hours of wearing it. It only happened a couple of times though, and I think it was probably from not having my concealer properly set with powder. So I always make sure I set my under-eyes with a good amount of powder, and it doesn't transfer.

Overall, I really like this mascara and I'm going to continue using it on a daily basis. It's a little expensive at $24 a tube, so I'm not sure if I'd re-purchase it, but I'm happy with it's performance. 

Disclaimer: The product mentioned was sent to me for consideration. The opinions expressed in this post are all my own, from my personal experience with using this product.

NOTD: Essie Ballet Slippers!

Three (3) Coats of Essie Ballet Sippers & One (1) Coat of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat

Three (3) Coats of Essie Ballet Sippers & One (1) Coat of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat

(These photos were taken three days after I applied it. No chips yet!)

Essie Ballet Slippers is a pale, milky sheer pink. The polish isn't really meant to be opaque, but I applied three coats to better cover the discoloration of my tips (they are currently stained yellow-ish from my self tanner). Two coats looks nice for less opacity. I actually prefer the sheer look of two, because with the more coats you apply, the more pastel (almost white) the color will appear and it's too big of a contrast if I'm too tan. 

The formula isn't the best, as with a lot of Essie's polishes, it applies a bit streaky, but with careful hands & less brush strokes, you can get away with a streak-free manicure. 

I think it's a great shade for a formal occasion, the workplace or for every day. It's very natural, and looks polished, clean and feminine. It's also a great shade to use for french tips. 

According to Essie, it's one of their best sellers. I think it's the simplicity of the shade that makes it so popular. It's one of those no brainer shades you can wear for absolutely anything and it will always match your outfit. Kind of like "your nails, but better."

Review: Ellen Lange Express Retexturizing Peel Kit!

Ellen Lange Express Retexturizing Peel Kit

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 

An effective, yet gentle, exfoliation process that removes dull surface cells to reveal healthy new skin. This peel kit combines glycolic, microbeads and enzymes to create an extremely effective at home peel.

The peel claims to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, eliminate dry patches, minimize pore size and control periodic breakouts.

This peel kit contains 10% Glycolic. 5% in the peel accelerator pads and 5% in the peel solution. The pH of the Glycolic Acid is 3.5-3.7.

The Kit Includes:

Peel Prep (2 oz.)

Peel Accelerator Pads (60 pads)

Glycolic Peel Solution (1.5 oz.)

Fan Brush

Measuring Cup

Directions for use: 

Step #1 Peel Prep Scrub: Cleanse face and apply to slightly damp skin. Gently massage in a circular motion over entire face for 30 to 60 seconds. Leave on for an additional minute. Rinse well with water and pat dry.

Step #2 Peel Accelerator Pad: Gently wipe textured pad over entire face to accelerate exfoliation. Allow solution to completely dry.

Step #3 Peel Solution: Pump 1 teaspoon into marked dispensing cup provided. Use brush and follow diagram  (shown on the box) stroking solution over forehead, t-zone, chin and cheeks. Peel will foam gradually. Leave on for 8 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and gently pat dry.

*For extra benefit use Peel Accelerator Pads daily after cleansing at night. 

READ MORE FOR MORE INFO + MY REVIEW!