Thursday, December 29, 2011

If you want the Shoemint Jolly's, Check out your local Marshall's for the Steve Madden Tanngoo's!

Steve Madden Tanngoo

If you're already a member of Shoemint, then you're probably already familiar with the three styles released late November. It's been talked about that two of the three styles (Edith and Jolly) have a striking resemblance to a couple of Steve Madden's current designs. Can't say it's a total shocker, considering Steve Madden is the manufacturer of the brand.

I was eyeballing the taupe colored wedge booties for a while, but never ended up getting them because I've seen similar styles in other brands. I'm glad I didn't because I spotted the Steve Madden Tanngoo's at my local Marshall's on Clearance for $40 (regular price $49.99).


What's the difference? The only difference I could spot, are the loop holes for the shoe strings. I actually prefer the Steve Madden's, so total score! 

For reference, I found that these run true to size. I'm an 8.5 and the 8.5 fits perfect, even with a pair of trouser socks. I've read some reviews that the Jolly's fit pretty true as well, despite Shoemint's recommendation of going a half size up.


If you're interested in these, definitely check out your local TJMaxx or Marshall's stores! Most winter boots have been marked down.

Hope you all had a wonderful Holiday! Any plans for New Year's?

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Review: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Shape Brow Pencil (Swatches + Before & After)

Maybelline Eye Studio Master Shape Brow Pencil

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 
Master Shade: Subtle color pigments enhance your natural brow look
Master Shape: soft grooming brush adds final definition
Master Hold: exclusive wax technology keeps brows in place

Opthomologist tested - safe for sensitive eyes - Contact lens safe

Application: Fill and define brows using small, light strokes following natural brow shape. Groom brow upward and outward with brush to blend color and set brows.

What it basically is, is a tinted wax pencil. It's a little bit different than a retractable crayon (Maybelline Define-a-Brow or MAC Brows) for instance, as it's less crumbly and less pigmented. It's also the case for a standard brow pencil. Although heavy pigment is awesome for an eyeliner, it's a little less awesome for your brows.

As far as I know, it's available in four shades: Blonde, Auburn, Soft Brown and Deep Brown. This product is so new that it hasn't popped up on the Maybelline website yet, so I'm sure if there are any other additional shades.
 (Photo snapped in Walmart last night) From Left to Right: #260 Deep Brown, #255 Soft Brown, #265 Auburn and  #250 Blonde.

I picked up Deep Brown, as my hair is a very dark brown with no golden tones.

CONTINUE READING FOR SWATCHES + BEFORE & AFTER!

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Review: Diorskin Nude Fresh Glow Hydrating Makeup Foundation

 Diorskin Nude Fresh Glow Hydrating Makeup Foundation

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Containing nearly 40% Active Mineralized water, this fluid foundation offers a fresh and hydrating finish. Your complexion appears smooth, silky and feels more comfortable due to micronized water droplets. This formula offers lightweight coverage, while it evens out the complexion and helps it appear more radiant and transparent.

With daily use, the skin texture improves for a long-lasting natural glow.

*Clinically proven to improve skin quality +27% after 4 weeks (Clinical study carried out by a dermatologist on 30 women: assessment before application and on bare skin after 4 weeks of daily use)

Dior currently has a selection six liquid foundations (including the airbrush spray foundation), with Diorskin Nude (Fluid) being the most popular.

I've been bored with my foundations lately, and Diorskin Nude peaked my interest as I noticed that it - or was, a favorite among many beauty bloggers. So, I decided to pick it up during Sephora's VIB sale.

The numbering system with this foundation is as follows:
yellow undertones = ends in 1
pink undertones = ends in 2
neutral undertones = ends in 0
peach undertones = ends in 3

Knowing that, helped me figure out my foundation shade a little easier. I know that I need a yellow based foundation, so my choices were 021, 031 or 051. So there's basically a light skin match, medium and dark with not much in between - for yellow undertones, that is. The lightest yellow shade (021) actually isn't that light. I'd say it's around a NC20 in the MAC coloring system, not far from a NC25.


CONTINUE READING!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Review: Shoemint Pauline Booties in Black!


Shoemint Pauline (Black)

Elevate your Fall/Winter wardrobe with our leg-lengthening suede platform bootie. Named after Nicole's (Nicole Chavez, stylist for Shoemint) grandmother, Pauline, the gold corset detail and matching cord offer a vintage touch to this avant-garde, sculpted silhouette.

* Available in wine, or black kid suede
* 2" platform and 6" wedge heel
* Side zip
* Lace detailing with gold hardware on the back
* Available in sizes 5-11 (the sizing runs small; ­ recommended to order a half size up)
* $79.98 (1 credit on Shoemint)

CONTINUE READING FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & INFO!

Jewelmint Pomander Pendant Review with Lots of Photos!

jewelmint pomander pendant

Jewelmint Pomander Pendant

I know I've featured a lot of Jewelmint this month, but I swear, this will be it for a while. Or, at least until January. I was looking at the Pomander Pendant for a while, and decided on getting it before it's gone. It's currently "almost sold out".

The Pomander Pendant features a 32" antique gold/brass coloured chain, holding a perforated sphere, that opens and closes with a magnetic clasp. The sphere is meant to hold a small piece of fragrant cotton, and when worn around your neck, you should be able to smell the scent as you go about your day.

Jewelmint says, "Don this piece with your signature scent and make a lasting impression whenever you leave a room."

I think it's an adorable design and idea, and a piece that can be very sentimental to many. You can put any scent that makes you happy; your favorite perfume, your significant others cologne, a fragrance that reminds you of a parent or loved one, etc. You can even "test" out a fragrance you've been eyeballing, by spraying a little bit on a piece of cotton at your local dept. store.

jewelmint pomander pendant review

Monday, December 19, 2011

Shabby Apple Giveaway Winner!

Thank you all so very, very much for entering my recent Shabby Apple Giveaway!

A winner was picked using the List Randomizer and True Random Number Generator on Random.org. I usually always pick my giveaway winners through Random.org, as I find it's the easiest and every entrant has an equal chance.


Congrats, Emily! I will be e-mailing you shortly. 

*If a response isn't received within 48 hours, a new winner will be drawn.

Thank you again for participating, and for subscribing to my blog! I'd also like to thank Shabby Apple for sponsoring a second giveaway on my blog and for their kindness through the process! 

Hope you all have a wonderful Monday!

Jewelmint Lunar Blue Necklace Review!

jewelmint lunar blue necklace review

Jewelmint Lunar Blue Necklace

Yep, you guessed it, more Jewelmint. Earlier this month I posted about the Easy Rider Necklace and the Silver Swan Bracelet. Both pieces I love to death, and when I realized that there are pieces made that won't be re-made, I quickly ordered the Lunar Blue Necklace. Lucky I did, because the following day it was sold out.

Actually, just about every item in my showroom is sold out, which I've never seen before! Maybe many people are purchasing Jewelmint for the holidays?

I'm so happy I did get the Lunar Blue Necklace, because it's probably my favorite item I own from Jewelmint.

The Lunar Blue Necklace features a 19" silver curb chain with a silver square pendant and a gold square accent atop. In the middle lies a sky blue, oval stone. From the bottom of the pendant, there is a row of small dangling chains. It's an unusual piece, but very pretty. The silver is oxidized, so it has more of a matte finish. It has a slight worn look to it, but still shines very nicely. The gold detail has a standard shiny finish, so the different finish and contrasting metals compliment each other very well. The pale blue "stone" isn't really a gemstone, but plastic. When it first launched, I know the fact that it was plastic was disappointing to some, but because I already knew, I wasn't disappointed. To me, this is a really stand-out necklace and looks very high-end.

jewelmint lunar blue necklace review

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Gold Bond Sheer Ribbons Silk Softness Body Lotion - A newfound love!

PRODUCT DETAILS:
Gold Bond's Silk Softness formula features 7 hydrating moisturizers that replenish your skin, while natural silk proteins enhance all-over smoothness. The result is irresistible, touchably soft skin.

Sheer Ribbons Silk Softness is a finely fragranced body lotion, scented with a blend of delicate mimosa petals, seductive tuscan cyprus and apricot reduction. 

I'm not positive when Gold Bond launched Sheer Ribbons, but as far as I know, it's one of their newer products. There are two different lotions in the Sheer Ribbons line, "Silk Softness" and "Pearl Radiance". They both contain the same 7 hydrating moisturizers, but the fragrances differ (Pearl Radiance contains citrus-nectarine, fresh rosewood and asian tea notes) and Pearl Radiance has a light-reflective pearl, so when applied, your skin will glisten.

My wonderful Aunt Grace gave me this lotion last week, as she loves it and thought it would be a great product to share with my readers!

What's pretty cool about the lotion is that it is dispensed from a can, like a shaving cream or mousse. When you press down on the pump, lotion will be dispensed in a ribbon-like shape. Product will continue to dispense for however long you are holding it down. I don't own another lotion like it! It's really convenient to have located next to your kitchen sink to keep your hands moisturized after washing dishes/cleaning, or next to your tub, after you shower. Just a quick pump - simple as that.

CONTINUE READING!

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Final day to enter my Shabby Apple Giveaway!


Hey Everyone!

It's the final day to enter my giveaway, sponsored by Shabby Apple, for their adorable Francine Skirt.

If it isn't your style, it would make a great gift! Please enter!

Covergirl Hot Passion Lip Perfection Lipstick Review, Photos and Swatches!

covergirl lip perfection hot passion

Covergirl Hot Passion Lipstick

Do you have a lipstick, or any item of makeup that once applied, you instantly feel sexy? That's how I feel when I apply Covergirl Lip Perfection in #305 Hot Passion. I feel like popping some of my old cassettes in the tape player and gettin' my jam on. Rockell, perhaps?

(Rockell - In a Dream)

Haha! But, really, there is something about red that makes a women look and feel sexy.

Hot Passion is a true red that isn't 100% cool, or warm. It meets somewhere halfway. Upon application, I can tell right away that it looks cool with a blueish-pink undertone. But, when applied heavier, it starts to give off a little warmth. So, it's not entirely cool or warm. I actually attained this lipstick from my beautiful cousin, who is around the MAC NW15 coloring (with auburn hair, blue eyes & rosy cheeks), and she found it looking too warm/orange for her liking. I love it though, on my MAC NC20 coloring. Not to mention, it makes my lips look very full!

Covergirl Hot Passion Lip Perfection

Friday, December 16, 2011

Maya Water Organic White Tea Facial Mist

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 
MayaWater Organic White Tea Facial Mist consists of Norwegian thermal spa water along with organic white tea, which contains fabulous anti-oxidants for the skin, prevents and repairs sun damage, and also helps fight wrinkles and skin discoloration.

MayaWater Facial Mist is naturally pH neutral, odor-free, and suitable for all skin types. It's specially designed nozzle is made to produce the finest mist available which allows the skin to absorb the water immediately.

In addition, the Norwegian Spring used for MayaWater Facial Mist has been studied, tested and approved for use by hydrologists, owing to its extremely low mineral content and stable temperature throughout the year.

The fine spray allows the skin to absorb the water immediately, helping to nourish, cleanse and apply moisture on bare skin, or over your make up.

This product may sound familiar to you, as there are similar products on the market. For example, MAC Fix+ Spray ($20/100ml), which also contains green tea, cucumber and other refreshing vitamins & minerals and there is also Evian Mineral Water Spray ($11/148ml) which is purely mineral water propelled by nitogen, acting as a "refresher".

CONTINUE READING!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Yagolicious Bonita Lipstick in the shades Blue Rose & Matador Red.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 
Flaunt your Bonita lips in rich color formulated with Vitamin E.Our exclusive formula smoothes out fine lines and creases in living color. Bonita Lipstick is one of Yagolicious Cosmetics best selling lipstick and one of the top sellers for Yagolicious Cosmetics.

I've been on a bright lipstick kick lately and can't seem to get enough of them. Granted, I don't own many, but I have my eyes on several; MAC Impassioned - yes, I'm the only person in the world that doesn't own it, Illamasqua Frenzy, Petulant & Indulge Intense lip glosses, Every obnoxious colored OCC Lip Tar, to name a few.

So, these Yagolicious Lipsticks were right up my alley with their intense color, in the shades Blue Rose and Matador Red. In fact, they are actually Yagolicious' best sellers.



Guest Post: Winter Hair Care And Styling Tips!

(Credit)

The cold winter weather can do some major damage to your hair and chances are that without realizing it you are creating even more damage without realizing it. Then the winter moves on and your hair continues getting worse and so a vicious cycle begins. His doesn't have to be the case however. You can beat the winter blues and have beautiful healthy hair all year round. Here are some tips on how to go about it.

Turn Down The Heat
(Credit)
Heat is your worst enemy when it’s cold out because it instantly dries out your locks and strips them of moisture. Although it’s okay to use a blow dryer or flat iron once or maybe twice a week, refrain from using it more often. When you do use appliances try to keep them a few inches away from your hair so that the heat is not directly applied to it. You can also get some added protection by using a product such as Redken’s Satinwear 02 Ultimate Blow Dry Lotion which works to keep your locks safe during the drying process.


Moisturize Your Mane
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Use a nourishing conditioner to make your strands silky soft and shiny every time you wash them. Then give it a real boost by giving yourself a deep conditioning treatment once a week. However all of this work will be meaningless if you don’t take vitamins A, B complex and E that will nourish, hydrate and moisturize your locks from the inside out.



Wednesday, December 14, 2011

NOTD: Quite possibly the coolest holographic glitter polish, ever. (pic heavy)

 

I picked up this awesome glitter polish on Black Friday at Urban Outfitters. I've only been in Urban Outfitters a few times, and while waiting in a mega-long line to pay for my $10 awesome-deal top, I spotted this polish from about 10 feet away, dumbfounded that every girl in there wasn't fighting over getting a bottle.

The name of the polish is Afterhours, and it's a part of their house brand (Urban Outfitters Inc). It's a really difficult shade to describe, but it has a silver holographic fine glitter base with larger flecks of pink glitter. The mixture of the pink and silver glitter almost give off a pale purple appearance in the bottle. The holo is amazing. Some polishes have a weaker holo than others, but this one is really uniform and stands out really nice. I can't help but look at my nails every time I catch good lighting.

It's pretty opaque for a glitter, and I'm sure it would look great on it's own. I used it over a deep purple polish, and really liked the results.

  
CONTINUE READING FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS!

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Corrector Review + BEFORE & AFTER Pics!

CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Corrector 

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Covergirl's Simply Ageless Concealer formula covers imperfections, conceals under-eye circles and visibly brightens skin. Like all Simply Ageless makeup, it's made with advanced Olay Regenerist Serum, and it stays suspended over fine lines and wrinkles, for younger, firmer-looking skin.

  • Transforms from solid to liquid on contact with skin, for smooth application
  • Easy to apply with finger to target problem areas
  • Brightens skin under eyes for a more wide-awake look

For someone with dark (hereditary) under eye darkness, finding a product that is targeted as a "corrector" at the drugstore sounded very inviting, especially since I'm about three uses close to finishing my Bobbi Brown Corrector. Now, although I do love my Bobbi Brown, it is incredibly expensive with daily use. At $22 per 1.4g of product, the 9g jar of Olay is much more affordable and half the price; $11. Plus, there are always P&G coupons in the paper for Covergirl for extra savings.

The difference between a corrector and concealer? 
The difference is quite simple. A concealer is used to cover up or conceal any blemishes/imperfections, as well as under eye circles, redness, etc. It will usually pack more coverage than your typical foundation, so by the time you apply your foundation, all of your imperfections will be hidden. Of you can use a concealer without using foundation if you can find a good match for your skintone.

A corrector typically won't match your skintone. It is used to correct a color problem. It will contain a higher amount of color pigments to neutralize the color you're trying to conceal. Look at the color wheel for reference. The color directly across from the color you want to conceal is going to be the neutralizer.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Nila Anthony The Lykke Bag in Pink.



I got this adorable bag from Karmaloop last week. As soon as I saw it, I knew it was a "Natalie" bag. It combines many of my favorite things from the pale pink color, to the quilted design, the large bow, the faux leather tassel, the chain strap.. shall I go on?

CONTINUE READING!

Guest Post: 5 Things About Wrinkles You Might Not Have Known.

(Credit)
A few wrinkles here and there might add a bit of character, but let’s face it, you probably hate wrinkles as much as we do. They just don’t do anything but make you look older, more tired, and even angry. Are you faithfully taking care of your skin but still notice lines and creases developing anyway?

Here are some things that you may not have known about wrinkles, and what to do about them:

1) You can make wrinkles worse even while you sleep.
Front sleepers, listen up! You need to start sleeping on your back, ladies, because if you continue to sleep on your front with your face on the pillow, those creases on your face you see when you first wake up are going to eventually become permanent. Yikes! When you’re young, your skin is able to bounce back from creasing and pressure, but as your skin weakens with age, it can’t repair itself as quickly. As a result, any repeated creasing and indentation will leave a permanent mark.

2) In fact, that’s how frown and smile lines develop.
These types of wrinkles, known as dynamic, are caused entirely by the repeated movements of your muscles, which create creases in the overlying skin. These become permanent over time. Relaxing the muscle naturally or with Botox is how you can address these types of wrinkles. While we don’t recommend you stop laughing or frowning just so you can prevent dynamic wrinkles from developing, you can stop squinting (e.g. wear sunglasses) and performing other unnecessary facial movements.

3) The sun is your worst enemy.
There’s nothing worse for your skin than leaving it unprotected against the sun’s UV rays. UV destroys collagen and elastin, as well as robs the skin of moisture. These three factors contribute to the formation of lines, creases, saggy skin and, of course, wrinkles. Sunworshippers beware: even if you don’t see any lines on your face right now, you are guaranteed to develop them faster than if you stopped tanning right now. The problem is that sun damage is cumulative, so you’ll notice it in the long run. Nix the visits to the tanning salon, too. Your safest bet if you can’t stand a pale and washed out complexion is bronzer.

And if you’re worried about getting enough vitamin D, you can get it through the food you eat. Examples of vitamin D-packed foods include milk, salmon, and tuna.

4) Cutting down on how much fat you eat can actually cause wrinkles.
In your effort to trim down by eating less fat, you may actually be contributing to wrinkles. Not all fat is bad – some, such as the essential fatty acids found in salmon, avocado, nuts, olive oil, and flax, are vital in maintaining a smooth complexion by nourishing the skin and helping by keeping it hydrated from within.

Our bodies require the storage of fat as a source of energy when times are tough. While we all know that popular storage areas include the stomach and thighs, did you know that fat pads are also located in our face? These pockets of fat contribute to the overall contour, and eliminating these will only make us look gaunt and older. So remember, don’t starve yourself! You need a healthy amount of fat in your diet to keep wrinkles at bay!

5) You can’t just drink water alone to keep your skin smooth.
Keeping well hydrated does make your skin more supple, but if you’re not eating other beneficial foods, it won’t do a thing for your skin. Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and lean protein for the best effect.



Saturday, December 10, 2011

Giveaway: Shabby Apple Black Canvas FRANCINE Bow Skirt!

Shabby Apple is an awesome online boutique that specializes in Women's dresses. They have a large selection of dresses, all of which are simple, yet elegant and classy. Shabby Apple has a variety of "The Little Black Dress", Vintage Inspired, Sophisticated dresses - suitable for the workplace as well as various fun styles for all seasons.

Shabby Apple also sells skirts, fashion jewelry & accessories, swimwear and more.

Shabby Apple was kind enough to sponsor a giveaway for my readers for the chance to win one of their most timeless and versatile skirts, the Francine Skirt. I'm sure it would make a great addition to anyone's wardrobe!


RULES TO ENTER:
1) You must be a follower of my blog, as this giveaway is a gift for my readers.
2) You must be a resident of the US, that is 18 years of age, or has permission from a parent or guardian to enter.

HOW TO ENTER:
1) LIKE Shabby Apple on Facebook (click here)
2) Comment below anything at all! What are you doing for the holidays? What's your favorite thing about winter? What do you dread most about the holidays? Favorite purchase this week? OR, alternatively, you can just post "enter me".

*Please make sure your comment isn't completely anonymous, otherwise I won't know who you are! If you're commenting as anonymous, please least leave your name or e-mail.

The giveaway will end in one week from today, Dec 17th at 11:59 PM CST.


Check retailmenot for coupon codes!


Friday, December 9, 2011

The Natural Pink Blushes in my Current Rotation!

Aside from foundation, blush is my most favored item of makeup. Blush instantly adds liveliness to the face, while sculpting the cheeks. I love all shades of blush, from peach, orange, pink and red. In the summer time, you can bet I'm sporting bronzer and warm-toned red and coral blushes, but in the winter, I usually wear colors that are much more natural.

For the past couple of months I've for the most part skipped out on self tanning and bronzer, and gone the natural-pink route for my cheeks. I've found myself picking up the same shades over and over again (thus calling it a rotation).

CONTINUE READING FOR MY PICKS + ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & SWATCHES!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Jewelmint Easy Rider Necklace Review!

jewelmint easy rider necklace review

Jewelmint Easy Rider Necklace

My December Jewelmint item arrived in the mail today. I had my heart set on getting the Vanguard Necklace, but it literally sold out before my eyes. So, I went with my next choice, which is (somewhat-kinda-not really) similar; the Easy Rider Necklace.

The Easy Rider Necklace features a 36" gold curb chain with gold tubing and silver faux barbed wire castings. This is another item that has an edgy feel, yet feminine because it is so long and dainty. I find it looks best when paired with lightweight tops, such as a flowy chiffon or silk blouse or with a blazer. It also goes very well with a gold statement ring (such as the Everfrost ring) or watch. It can be worn at the full length, or it can be doubled with one chain laying directly around the neck, and the other one laying right above the chest. For my personal preference, I like it at it's full length, as doubling it can feel uncomfortable on the neck.

Jewelmint Easy Rider Necklace Review

Loving my ROSS Jewelry Stand!


Cute, isn't it? I got this little jewelry stand at Ross for $5.99. I really like mannequin jewelry stands, but most of them aren't very sturdy; especially when heavy necklaces are placed on the hooks. Because this stand has a large base, it's very sturdy and won't knock down every time you try taking a necklace off. I like the fact that it can hold necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. I'll be using it to hold my "GO-TO" items.

It seems that they are opening Ross stores everywhere. I've heard of Ross from other bloggers, but never had any locations near me. My first time in the store, was a couple of days ago. They have some pretty good deals!

You may have spotted my Jewelmint Easy Rider Necklace on the left.. ;) I received it in the mail today. I'll have a review for it shortly!

Hope you're having an awesome Thursday! One more day and TGIF!

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Jewelmint Silver Swan Bracelet Review + 70% OFF your Jewelmint Purchase!

jewelmint silver swan bracelet

Jewelmint Silver Swan Bracelet

I boarded the Jewelmint bandwagon back in September, and although I'm not obsessed, I have found a piece here and there that I liked. I've posted about Jewelmint a couple of times before (Ever Frost Ring and Here To Eternity Set) showing you my monthly selection. I skipped October, but for the month of November I chose The Silver Swan Bracelet.

I was interested in The Golden Goose Bracelet for a while, which is the same exact bracelet in gold, but I ended up passing on it in the long run. But, when I saw that they launched a silver edition, I figured I could get much more use out of it since I've been wearing mostly silver as of lately.

The Golden Goose Bracelet, 2nd from the left. (Photo Credit)
I love fashion jewelry with a bit of an edge, and to add to my spike addiction, these so-called "diamond shaped castings" look a lot like spikes. There are seven castings in total, with one of them being covering in shiny crystals. I think the one casting with the crystals is what really makes this piece unique, inviting and it also adds a touch of femininity to an edgy piece of jewelry.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Real Techniques Blush Brush + A Fav Lip Combo!

Real Techniques Blush Brush

PRODUCT DETAILS:
Ultra-plush, synthetic taklon bristles are hand-cut and 100% cruelty-free
Self-standing for easy storage
Extended aluminum handle is light and easy to use

If you're a fan of the Pixiwoo sisters on YouTube, Sam and Nic, you're probably already familiar with Sam's line of makeup brushes, Real Techniques.

Real Techniques Makeup Brushes can be found at ULTA stores (in-store and online) throughout the USA. There are also a few online retailers that cater to International users. (click here for a location list)

What really stands out about the brushes are the unique designs. They have a professional look and most of the brushes have a tapered tip, for a perfectly airbrushed finish. The fibers are also incredibly soft, and the brush seems very sturdy. I've had mine for three months now, and the brush doesn't show any signs of wear and tear. The best part of all, the brushes are very affordable. The blush brush retails for $8.99, and ULTA always has $3.50 off $10 coupons, which is always a plus.



CONTINUE READING FOR A SHORT REVIEW AND ADDITIONAL PHOTOS!

Friday, December 2, 2011

Swatches: L.A. Colors Private Eye 24 Color Eyeshadow Palette.

L.A. Colors Private Eye 24 Color Eyeshadow Palette

If you haven't heard of L.A. Colors, it's a very affordable line of cosmetics through Beauty 21, Inc; who are also the makers of L.A. Girl and Arissa Studios. L.A. Colors is a really fun line, targeting more of the younger fashionistas, with loads of bright colors at a very low price - many of them being a dollar or two. It's also a cruelty-free company, for you all of you Vegans out there. I've spotted L.A. Colors at several of my local dollar and discount stores. For a list of retail locations, click here.


The Private Eye 24 Color Eyeshadow Palettes is one of L.A. Colors newest additions.

They are available in two different color palettes: Stake Out and Witness. I'm not positive if the finishes of the shadows differ from the two palettes, but I know the colors are very similar.

I own Stake Out, which contains 24 colorful shadows, both warm and cool, all with a shimmery or frosty finish.
READ MORE FOR THE SWATCHES!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Misikko HANA Professional 1.5" Flat Iron Review!

PRODUCT FEATURES:
  • Advanced Tourmaline Ceramic Plates for Accelerated Ion Generation and Maximum Frizz-Free, Conditioning Shine
  • Floating 1.5” Plates Auto-Adjust To Glide Over Any Hair Texture
  • Wider plates are perfect for longer, thicker or hard to style hair types
  • Curved Plate Edges For Versatile Styling - Curl, Flip or Straighten!
  • Adjustable Temperature Dial - 5 Settings from 140-450° F for All Hair Types
  • Flash Heats in Seconds with Instant Compensation for Heat Loss
  • Ergonomic Handle Design with No-Slip Grip
  • Smooth Grooves Keep Hair Strands Separate and Snag-Free
  • Tangle-Free Salon Quality Cord Swivels 360°; Convenient Hanging Loop
  • Energy Efficient at 38 Watts
  • Independent On/Off Switch
  • Includes Luxe Heat Proof Storage Pouch, Heat Proof Silicone Mat, & Special Edition Tin Case
  • Two Year Warranty
(View additional information and customer reviews by clicking here)


Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Just for fun: A few beauty related things i've realized over the years.

#1 If you should invest your hard earned moolah in one item in your cosmetic bag, it should be a good foundation.
We all know expensive isn't always better, but I do believe if you're going to splurge, splurge on a good foundation. Who really cares about your amazing eye makeup if your foundation looks blotchy? Alright.. I'm not trying to bash all drugstore foundations. There are a few good ones, but you have way more options, and a larger selection of shades to perfectly match your skin when you branch out into the higher end brands. The wonderful thing about getting your foundation from a department store is, you can sample it before purchasing it. Get color matched, and request a sample that will be enough for a few uses. Test it out at home, and see how you like it!

#2 Mascara doesn't need to be purchased anywhere else, other than the drugstore. 
When it comes to mascara, there are so many options at the drugstore. I've tried so many high end brands, along with many drugstore brands, and the high end brands never delivered more than the drugstore brands. Especially for a product that will dry up in a few weeks, I find that paying $20 and up for a mascara is a waste of money. You're better off investing in a good mascara base and eyelash curler. Don't get me wrong, curiosity sometimes gets to me and I'll treat myself once in a while, but on an every day basis, drugstore mascara works just as good!
#3 If you tan frequently, have more than one foundation shade on hand.
Especially for those who use self tanner often. Keep a foundation on hand of your actual skin shade, regardless of how light it is. I know many of you probably feel that you look your best with a nice tan, but being fair is just as sexy! I didn't abide by this for years. Can you believe my actual coloring is usually the lightest shade at the drugstore, but I've been self tanning for ten years and throughout the years have only purchased my tan shade!? Talk about pressure to tan every day - If I didn't tan, I had no makeup!

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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in Pink Frosting.

Maybelline Pink Frosting Dream Mousse Blush

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
• Air-whipped mousse blush feels satin-soft on skin, glides on smoothly, and blends easily for seamless color and a natural finish
• Long-wearing formula provides luminous, long-lasting color on cheeks without clogging pores

APPLICATION:
With your fingertips, pat a small amount of blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Use feathery strokes to blend gently from your cheekbones to your temples. To build color intensity, apply more blush.

* For application, I much better prefer a (synthetic) duo-fiber brush such as the MAC 188 or Coastal Scents Tapered Duo Fiber Brush, although fingers can also be used.

Pink Frosting is a light pink that's a little bit on the cool side, with a scatter of fine, golden shimmer.