Ebrushka's Makeup Bag

Top 5 Eyeshadows

2012-02-07T14:25:00.002-06:00

If you don't already know, eyeshadows are my weakness. I am well aware that my current eyeshadow collection will last me a lifetime but I can't keep myself from adding more - I did slow down lately! Naturally I go through phases of reaching for certain colors. These days I am absolutely in love with the following ones. Yes, these are all definitely "I will repurchase as long as X brand continues to make them" type of eyeshadows.

MAC Twinks

Twinks is my newest MAC eyeshadow and had been on my wish list for a really long time. I don't know why I waited so long to check it off my list but I'm glad I finally did. It's a deep brown with hint of red and plum. I usually use it on my crease with a neutral/nude lid. It's definitely one of those colors that would look beautiful with any eye color.

Chanel Taupe Grise

Taupe Grise was my first Chanel eyeshadow ever and what a great decision for a first Chanel eyeshadow! I would like to say it's taupe as its name suggests but it's not quite. It's more of a brownish mauve. I absolutely love using it in sultry smokey eye looks. I also find that it's versatile and can be worn in daytime looks if carefully applied.

MAC All That Glitters

One of the few MAC products I *stole* from my sister, she did say she didn't want them anymore. Unbelievably (and lucky for me!) All That Glitters was one of them. I would describe it as a shimmery peach with gold glitter. I think it pairs beautifully with MAC Twinks - I wear them together quite a bit.

Inglot DS #467

I use 467 nearly everyday because it's just the perfect all over the lid color for me. It's not everyone's cup of tea as it is not matte in fact it is shimmery - both in pan and when applied. Like all Inglot eyeshadows, this one is buttery smooth and applies like a dream. I love how Inglot eyeshadows are so easy to pack on to achieve desired intensity.

Stila Diamond Lil

It was too late when I found out MAC released a limited edition eye shadow named Diamond & Smokes. While hopelessly looking for its swatches, I came across comparison swatches. If it weren't for the captions, I would have never been able to tell they are two different colors. So I immediately ran to Sephora to pick up this beauty! It's a shimmery taupe-grey. Diamond Lil makes a great color for grey smokey looks, a nighttime favorite for sure!

Chanel Taupe Grise - Inglot 467 - MAC Twinks - Stila Diamond Lil - MAC All That Glitters

What eyeshadows do you reach for the most lately?

Monthly Favorites // January '12

2012-01-31T07:27:00.001-06:00

Where on earth did January go?? I can't believe I am already sitting here writing my January favorites post! This month I rediscovered a few old favorites...

Knowing I'd be in Turkey for a few months, I had to decide carefully as to which products I take with me on this trip. Naturally it took me forever to decide on eyeshadows as they are must-haves for me. While digging in my stash I came across this gorgeous Wet n Wild palette and knew I couldn't walk out the door without it being in my travel makeup bag. I've used it quite a bit this month, forgot how beautiful it really is. NARS Cheyenne eyeshadow duo was a product I totally abandoned in the past few months. I bought it on a whim after seeing it on sale for $10 (yes you read that right!) on Sephora's website. Surely I wasn't going to walk away from such a deal! I personally love wearing the orange shade on lid and the other shade on crease. Blush-wise, I showed a whole lot of love to theBalm Cabana Boy. I think it looks gorgeous paired with eyeshadows I have mentioned above :)

Coming to the lipstick front...I have been loving color quite a bit. None of these are your typical winter shades but oh well! This girl needs some color in her life as weather has been kind of grey, snowy, rainy lately in Istanbul. My top picks for lipstick this month were; Dior Singuliere, MAC Viva Glam Gaga and Ever Hip. My go-to lip glass has been MAC Underage.

I have received a huge gift basket from Bath and Body Works for my birthday last month. I have to be honest, I don't hate anything as much as someone (other than my hubby, mom and sister) buying me fragrance, perfumes, lotions and the like. It's just that scents are so personal. Thankfully this friend lucked out! It was love at first spritz, Dark Kiss turned out to be my "favorite BBW scent ever". Laura Mercier creme de pistache has been a lifesaver for me in these colder months. I especially love lathering it on at night as a little treat for my hands.

The amazing Armani Code was among my birthday gifts as well. This is my second bottle :) I am a perfume hoarder but I hardly ever buy a perfume again even if I love it to pieces. There are just so many different scents out there that I must try all! I find Armani Code to last on me all day which is a huge + for me. Without a doubt, it's one of my favorite perfumes ever. It's been getting a good mileage this month!

No I didn't just buy it. I actually purchased this heavens-sent product back in summer '11 and have been religiously using it until I came to Turkey few months ago. I have to be honest, I only used it maybe a month during my stay here. Oops. I have started using it again because I started to realize my skin quality was going downhill. So that's why it is featured in my January favorites. Totally forgot what an amazing product it is. And yes if you're wondering, I really really recommend it to anyone who is thinking about jumping on the Clarisonic Mia bandwagon. It is worth every single penny in my humble opinion.

Thanks for reading! Happy February! <3

What products have you reached for the most in January?

MAC Constructivist Paint Pot

2012-01-07T14:44:00.001-06:00

Paint pot craze continues! Today I present you the latest paint pot addition to my stash. Constructivist never caught my attention until it started to pop up on a few blogs I follow. On one of my many unplanned MAC trips, I decided it was time to finally swatch it and it was love thereafter. So here it is!

Constructivist is a beautiful metallic coppery/brown taupe and has a frost finish. MAC describes it as "metallic brown with red pearl". It has a creamy consistency like most paint pots and has minimal shimmer. On my skin (my current color is around NC30) it looks more taupe-like than brown. Swatches taken in natural sunlight (left photo below) fit MAC's description of this color . However, when applied on my lid, it looks more like the color on my swatches taken without flash (right photo below).

I've only applied Constructivist on my bare lid in the photo above, that way you can see the true color. Then I have quickly blended out the color upward a bit. I finished off the look with a black gel liner and mascara. In my opinion, Constructivist can easily be worn alone. This is great news for people who want some color on their lids but a) are in a hurry b) don't like wearing a lot of eye makeup c) want some color on their lids but nothing over the top. Constructivist, like most paint pots, also makes a great base to layer under eye shadows, especially when you want the colors to pop. Besides wearing it on its own, I have also been enjoying using Constructivist as a base under MAC Satin Taupe - they complement each other beautifully. I also really like using MAC Quarry on crease with just Constructivist on the lids. Wear time for paint pots is debatable. I love that they last all day on my lids but there are people who experience creasing in a matter of few hours after application.

What do you think of Constructivist? Do you use Paint Pots? Do recommend other paint pot shades, could be another brand too - I need more!

Wishing you all a lovely weekend
<3

2011 Favorites

2011-12-31T10:56:00.001-06:00

Aaaand it's the last day and last few hours of 2011! Instead of doing a December favorites post, I decided to just do a post that includes all the products that stood out to me this year. Sure, I had a bazillion favorites but the ones that truly swept me off my feet are what you will see below. Otherwise you would have to see 50 blushes, 100 eyeshadows...you know I fall in love with products quite easily!

First up is the wonderful Z palette. I love it for mainly two reasons; helps greatly in my attempt to keep my life and makeup drawer organized and it helps me find the color I am looking for very easily because of its clear lid. Read my review here.

Natural Eye by Too Faced hopefully isn't a surprise to anyone as it is one of my absolute favorite palettes! Other eyeshadow discoveries and obsessions are MAC's Patina, Woodwinked, Twinks, All That Glitters, Chanel Taupe Grise (definitely a winner by far!) in addition to Inglot's velvety soft and super pigmented shades.

Dior Amber Diamond is definitely in my top 10 products of the year. It's everything I would want a highlighter to be. It highlights my cheekbones like no other. Yes it is pricey, it is Dior after all. But if it makes me feel good, and it does, then it's worth every penny. Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes have most likely deserved the most amazing and long lasting blushes of the year award. Not only are they paraben-free but last all day on skin and come in a variety of gorgeous colors. My favorite and shown above is Tipsy. Benefit Bella Bamba has been my go-to pink blush this year, it has just the right amount of shimmer thus making it easily wearable during the day. Have I mentioned it smells amazing? Top drugstore blush just must go to Milani's Baked Powder Blushes. My favorite is in Luminoso. It's the perfect light peach which wears beautifully when paired with Dior Amber Diamond. Favorite bronzer-but-really-blush kind of product is Laura Geller's Blush-n-Brighten in Honey Dipped. I would have most likely never figured out this product even existed had I not received it in my Birchbox few months ago, thank you Birchbox! Almost every time I wear this product, I get asked what it is! It's quite magical for a bronzy blush.

I talk about MAC Paint Pots quite a bit but don't be fooled because between you and me I have just introduced myself to them exactly a year ago. Since discovering these little gems of pots, I have started using UDPP less and less. And since picking up Nubile several months ago, I have not been using UDPP at all. I just feel like paint pots perform just the same (and some shades even last longer!) are less expensive and come in variety of permanent shades. My absolute favorites this year have been, Nubile, Vintage Selection, Indianwood and Genuine Treasure.

Shu Uemura's Painting Liner in Black has been my go-to gel liner this year. I love it for lasting forever on my semi-oily lids, no flaking, smudging nada. I couldn't ask for more. Anastasia's clear brow gel have kept my eyebrows in place this year and have done an amazing job making my brows always look groomed. Concealers of the year have been Hard Candy Glamoflauge and YSL Touche Eclat. Glamoflauge will cover just about anything, I heard even tattoos! It lasts all day on my trouble areas on my face and it also seems like it will last me few years as you just need a tiny drop of it to cover a medium to large patch of skin. Ah Touche Eclat, why haven't I tried you all these years? It's done wonders for my under eye area, making me look awake on the days I was barely able to keep my eyes open.

If you've been reading my blog for a while then you may know that I am not such a huge lip product fan like some other blogger friends out there. But when I love a lip product, I love it endlessly! MAC's Shy Girl, Hue, Underage, Maybelline's Pink Please, Revlon's Soft Nude, Dior's Singuliere and YSL Gloss Pur #2 to name a few. I believe I will never be without these beauties!

The most important brush this year for me was MAC 217. I believe everyone needs not one but multiple of 217. It's seriously the best for blending! MAC 227 comes very handy especially during busy mornings and makes life so much easier. With 227, I literally apply and go. It's great for quickly applying an overall lid color. For face brushes, I absolutely fell in love with Sigma F80. It works amazingly with my favorite foundation ever, Revlon Photo Ready. The combination of these two leaves my face looking flawless. Earlier this year I experimented with Sigma F50 and began using it for blush application and since then it's the only brush I use for this purpose. A small duo fiber brush just doesn't apply well on my face and makes it hard to blend, but F50 does a perfect job. And finally Sigma F35 for contouring, applies the contour shade exactly where it should be. F35 is also great for what it's actually for; highlighting.

2011 was a glittery and shimmery year for me - in terms of nail polishes that is :) Sure, my all time favorites nail polishes do not include this much glitter but this year...I decided change was in order! So I reached, more than it was necessary, for glitter overload polishes like Milani Jewel FX and Sephora by OPI Spark-tacular. I also enjoyed Orly Rage and Butter London All Hail the Queen on days I needed to be more polished (yes, pun intended!) :)

I want to thank my lovely readers and my blogger friends for making 2011 a great year with great beauty discoveries! I wish all of you a very happy new year, may 2012 be a year of joy and happiness with loved ones!

xoxo

Life Lately, According to my iPhone Pictures

2011-12-04T15:37:00.000-06:00

I've always enjoyed looking through the "Life Lately, According to my iPhone Pictures" posts by one of my absolute favorite bloggers, Rockstar Diaries - and always wanted to do some myself. It's not makeup-related (though could be) aka can be boring for some but I'm doing it anyway. Hope someone enjoys it!

I am one of those people who takes a photo of everything. I'm also that family member/friend who holds up the dinner table because my life would be incomplete if I don't take a few snaps of the food. I love taking photos of random things and small details!

My life lately...

- Enjoyed a yummy brunch at 'Cookshop'

- Crossed the gorgeous Bosphorus Bridge to see it all lit up - LED keeps changing colors, such a pretty view!

- Gobbled this mouth-watering strawberry cake

- Watched a stunning Istanbul sunset

- Celebrated the Republic Day of Turkey

- Participated in an eating contest within my family (lol)

- Captured another sunset

- Had strawberry and banana pancakes for lunch

- Took Muffin for walks in the park

- Visited the newly opened Bath and Body Works store

- Inhaled my mom's amazing feta cheese stuffed fried phyllo dough

- Enjoyed a cup of Turkish coffee with my grandma

- Cut my hair shoulder-length

- Put up our Xmas tree

- Finally ate a "kumpir"- huge baked potato smothered with all sorts of toppings!

- Snapped a photo of the middle of Asian and European continents behind a dirty car window

If you've done a post like this or planning to, let me know - they are my latest obsession!

Wishing everyone a fabulous week!

xoxo

November Favorites

2011-11-30T05:45:00.001-06:00

Ahh so I didn't keep my promise and it's been a month since my last post oops! Hopefully from now on, I will be able to update more often...but I'm not promising. :) Thanks to everyone for sticking with me, it's great to see new followers though my poor blog has been neglected for weeks!

I think monthly favorite posts make great "come-back" posts so here I am with my November favorites, can't believe it's almost December - my birth month woot woot!

MAC Hue & Mavala Neon Pink (#558)

Hue is my new favorite lipstick ever! I always thought of it as such a boring color though I never tried it on a single time before. Recently, my sister gave me her tube of Hue because she wasn't using it anymore. (yeah right, we can definitely tell!) I am absolutely in love with this shade, it's a light, soft peachy/pinky nude with a little shimmer. I have been wearing it almost daily since "adopting" it earlier this month. It's one of those colors that go beautifully with any kind of makeup, smoky, neutral, bright, whatever! On the days I haven't used Hue, I used this pretty pink lipstick by Mavala. I'm new to the brand, they do have a US website but it doesn't say where it's sold. Though it's called Neon Pink, I can't say it's a neon pink. I find it to be wearable. I admit that It's a bit summery, but hey it's nice to bring summer back once in a while especially in cooler and darker months like these days.

L-R: MAC Viva Glam Gaga, Mavala Neon Pink, MAC Hue

I compared Neon Pink to Viva Glam Gaga because it was the first bright pink lipstick in sight :)

MAC Eyeshadows - Club, Trax, Woodwinked, Twinks

Inglot #467

I have been feeling a little autumnal in terms of eyeshadows. Also, all of these colors compliment brown eyes *wink* Trax quickly became a favorite of mine shortly after purchasing it. I never thought to pair it with the gorgeous Woodwinked until recently. Ah the combination of gold and purple, how did I not think of this sooner?! I definitely recommend it if you love these colors! Twinks is my newest addition to my ever-growing MAC eyeshadow collection. It had been on my wish list forever, we're finally united! Club is an old favorite, makes a great everyday crease color also love it with darker blues and purples. I talk about Inglot #467 every now and then, it's been a favorite this month again. It's very pigmented and brighter than colors such as MAC's Grain or Naked Lunch. I love that it opens up my eyes. My go-to all over the lid color as of late!

L-R: Club, Woodwinked, Trax, Twinks

Top blushes this month were, NARS Taj Mahal and Gilda and Benefit Bella Bamba. Taj Mahal really makes me feel the season but orange blush does get a little blah if worn daily. So I am loving Bella Bamba and Gilda when I get tired of it. I am also back to using Too Faced Chocolate Soleil for bronzer. I had been crazy about the elf bronzer from their blush/bronzer duo but wanted to show a little love to my lovely Chocolate Soleil. Now that I am a bit paler, Chocolate Soleil seems to show up much better on my skin.

Last few pieces are products I picked up in Turkey. I was so bummed out that I forgot to bring along some Bath and Body Works favorites on my trip. Few days after I got here, I found out Bath and Body Works is opening in Istanbul! (Winning!) So I picked up some body washes and lotions, of course. I haven't had the chance to try their Paris Amour scent back in Chicago as I had so many other lotions and shower gels I had lined up to finally use. So I picked up a travel size of it along with some other scents, that way I can enjoy a different one everyday and actually finish them. I stay away from holiday scents, with the exception of candles, because they can be so overwhelming that they make me nauseous. So I usually stick with sweet or clean scents. Paris Amour is sweet but bearable. I especially love layering it over the Paris Amour body wash.

Bioderma's micelle solution for sensitive skin has been working its magic on my skin lately. When I first used it I thought it was just like water, it feels that pure. I love that it's so gentle on my skin and find it to be soothing as well. It's fragrance and alcohol free.

My last favorite this month is this black cherry (looks almost black in the bottle) Flormar nail polish. Flormar sells very affordable cosmetics and though they don't have a huge selection of colors (with the exception of shades of nudes, neutrals, pinks, reds and a few "wild" colors here and there) I love their nail polishes. They are so easy to apply and last for days on my nails, even without top coat.

Thanks for reading :)

Happy December!

October Favorites

2011-11-01T16:00:00.000-05:00

Hey loves!

Yes, I am still alive! If you're my friend on Twitter, then you know this if not then you're about to find out. I've been in Istanbul for the past two weeks hence the hiatus. Time seems to fly much faster here, I feel like everyday I wake up, it's already time for bed again! I missed blogging (and tweeting!) too much so I'm back to blogosphere now, expect more posts from me :)

I picked up a few new products in October and have been loving those a lot. My favorite purchase this month has to be Chanel Taupe Grise - definitely HG status.

NARS Lovejoy
Lovejoy is one of my favorite fall blushes, it seems to go with every kind of makeup I do. I also find it to be wearable both for day and nighttime looks.

theBalm Cabana Boy
Cabana Boy quickly became one of my favorite blushes and is also perfect for fall. It's a mauve/dusty rose with a little shimmer. I think it makes a great everyday blush for fall; looks pretty with neutral looks - that's how I usually wear it.

Hard Candy Glamoflauge Concealer
I have picked up the glamoflauge concealer specifically for my under eye area. I bought both Fair and Tan; fair for days I want a lighter under eye area that helps me look more awake and Tan for when I am darker. I love that this concealer lasts all day, covers everything and you only need a tiny bit of it. It's very affordable - $6.99 at Walmart!

Julep Pippa
Pippa was one of my first Julep nail polishes and since then it's been a go-to shade for me. It's the perfect nude for any occasion and is almost identical to Essie's Topless & Barefoot. Except with Pippa, you only need one coat for perfect opacity and drying time is cut in half if not more.

MAC Paint Pots in Nubile & Vintage Selection

I think I wore Nubile every single day since buying it this month. It's a matte, light pink/nude that wears well alone or as a base. I usually wear it paired with black winged out eyeliner. Vintage Selection is a shimmery nude, that needs a little bit of layering to get the color to show up more opaque. I find Nubile and Vintage Selection to look very pretty together.

Chanel Eyeshadow in Taupe Grise

My favorite purchase of October! I have wanted this beautiful eyeshadow for a very long time and finally decided to check it off my list. It's a shimmery, dark taupe with a hint of purple. It looks absolutely gorgeous on the crease with a neutral lid, like a very light peach or beige. Taupe Grise is highly pigmented and is buildable. Definitely recommend it if you've been dreaming about it, it's worth every penny!

Korres Black Eyeliner

I have actually bought this Korres eyeliner a long time ago but just got around to using it recently. I think it's a great eyeliner that lasts for many hours. It's not as soft as say Urban Decay 24/7 liner or Milani Liquif'eye liners but nonetheless goes on smoothly and is easily blended.

I wish everyone a wonderful November, it's one of my favorite times of the year! :)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2011-10-18T21:00:00.006-05:00

As most of you know, October is breast cancer awareness month. Just a couple weeks ago I have come together with several other beauty bloggers to do a series of posts showing our support for breast cancer research and raise awareness. What a great way to show our support through something we all love, cosmetics!

Until last year, I only heard of breast cancer. Last year, I sadly met it when my grandma was diagnosed. I am proud to say that she is one of the many women in the world who has won the battle against this horrible disease. When she found out, her lump was the size of an apricot, needless to say it was a very hard time for our family. With our never ending love and support and her amazing surgeon she was able to get rid off her lump without having her breast removed or having cancer spread elsewhere. I was also very happy to have been visiting Turkey at that time when her radiotherapy sessions began. It was such a great feeling to be able to hold her hand in those hard times. Unfortunately not everyone is as lucky as my grandmother. There are many women in the world who cannot afford mammograms or they are simply uninformed about the dangers of this disease. It breaks my heart to even think of those women who may have felt a lump/change in their breasts but cannot go to a doctor because they don't have money. So to help these women in need, I go to The Breast Cancer Site everyday and click on the button to donate a free mammogram to someone in need. Sponsors are the ones that pay for the cost of their mammogram, so all you need to do is click. It makes me feel so good to know I am helping someone. I hope many live are saved through a simple click!

Another simple way I donate is by entering the code found in Dannon yogurts' lids on Cupsofhope Their contribution is only 10 cents per each code entered but it does add up! Dannon's mission is to raise awareness through education about breast cancer and provide free mammograms for those in need. You can see how much your state had contributed on their website as well. There are also many companies that donate a percentage of their breast cancer products sales for breast cancer research expenses.

One of the best things you can do for yourself is to do regular self breast exams and look for anything unusual. We are humans, and honestly nobody loves or enjoys going to the doctor. But if you feel or see anything even slightly unusual, please see your doctor. A simple self exam can save lives!

To show my support, here is the pink look I have created...

I wanted to keep it simple but usage of pink product was a must, of course. I have used a few different shades of pink for the eyes and Dior Addict Singuliere lipstick on my lips. I also dusted a little bit of Benefit Bella Bamba on cheeks.

How do you promote breast cancer awareness?

Birchbox / October

2011-10-15T05:48:00.000-05:00

Another month, another box...this month Birchbox took its time to get to me, I was expecting it much sooner! But because I like the contents this month, I can't complain.

On to the samples...

I was pretty surprised to see what was in my box this month aseveryone else's blog posts or videos seemed to show totally different samples, some I received in the past month or two. Is there anyone who got the exact same samples as me?

I am most excited to be trying the Orofluido hair treatment oil as I always hear amazing things about it. One of my favorite Youtubers, blushingpixie, has talked about it in the past and she does have gorgeous hair. That says something! I am also looking forward to using the Befine lip exfoliator even though I love and use the Bubblegum lip scrub by Lush. Variety is good in my book! I also really like the sound of the ingredients in this lip exfoliator, oats, sesame oil and pineapple!

Caudalie night cream is a little too small to know whether it will really work and even if it did I am just not sure about how I feel about paying $68 for a night cream. Laura Geller Spackle sounds like an interesting product and will be my second Laura Geller product. In a previous Birchbox, I got an amazing Blush-n-Brighten in Honey Dipped and I absolutely adore it. Here is to wishing Spackle is just as good of a product! I like that it's a bronze color though it's a primer. I wonder if it will replace my daily use of a bronzer? Oribe shampoo and conditioner samples are the bonus this month. I have never tried their products before, it's always exciting to try a new brand.

Overall, I am happy with this month's Birchbox. I am especially super happy about the Orofluido sample as the full size is $29.99. I am glad that I have the chance to try it before committing to the full sized product without knowing if it will even do anything for me. Let's hope it does!

What was in your Birchbox this month?

Lipstick and Brush Storage

2011-10-11T21:54:00.001-05:00

I had been thinking of revamping my makeup storage for quite some time now, just never got around to actually doing it until recently. I already knew about the acrylic collection at the Container Store but wasn't sure exactly what pieces I need so I took a break from all the planning. Yesterday after posting my favorite lipsticks in this lipstick holder on Instagram/Twitter, I received quite a bit of questions. I felt like many weren't aware of this product so I thought why not blog about it that way it'll reach to more people!

This holder holds 24 lipsticks, as you can see mixed brands of both high end and drugstore lipsticks. As long as you don't have ginormous lipstick tubes, they will fit in the little slots. Just to let you know, both at the stores and on the website, there are 2 different types of these lipstick holders. I got the one that is "tiered" or to make it easier for you the one that is $7.99. I think the holder is pretty well made and feels sturdy. I'm actually surprised they aren't more expensive.

I think this is a great way to prettily display your favorites and I believe this helps you actually use the products. I previously stored my lipsticks in some type of a drawer and most times forgot what I even owned. I guess we can apply the "out of sight, out of mind" theory here. I store my MAC lipsticks upside down as doing so makes it so much easier to find what I'm looking for.

While browsing, I have also come across this little acrylic square container which automatically made me think of brushes! I would definitely not call myself a brush addict therefore own only what I really need. Since I love the way brushes look in it, I may go back and get another one and keep face brushes in one and eye brushes in the other. This one was $4.99.

I hope this post will help those who have been looking for makeup storage solutions. If you have a Container Store near you, I definitely suggest you to go check them out in store. If you don't live near one, I believe most products, if not all, are available on their website as well. I find most items in this collection to be reasonably priced, great if you're on a budget or simply don't want to spend a fortune on storage like me! :)

Fall Faves / Blushes

2011-10-06T23:50:00.001-05:00

I love when a new season arrives because that means I get to play with makeup I forgot I even had! It's kind of like wearing new makeup without paying for it :) Now that fall is in full force - ok the weather in Chicago is in the mid/upper 70s but I can see a few leaves falling off the trees, kinda - it's time to show you what will be on my cheeks this season!

Top L-R: NARS Lovejoy, Sleek Scandalous, NARS Douceur
Bottom L-R: Barry M Terracotta, NARS Taj Mahal

NARS Taj Mahal

I don't think it gets any more fall than Taj Mahal. A gorgeous, shimmery dark orange that reminds me of pumpkin pie mmm!

NARS Douceur

A great neutral for my-skin-but-better kind of days. Very versatile, very minimal shimmer and perfect for daytime.

Barry M Terracotta

Just like its name states, it's a very pretty terracotta. It is matter, thus making it easy to wear during the day. Terracotta is one of my go-to blushes for a quick daytime look. It is definitely buildable for a more intense nighttime look.

NARS Lovejoy

Dusty rose/brown. It is a little shimmery but nothing over the top.

Sleek Scandalous

Scandalous quickly became a favorite! It's a scary red, I will not blame anyone who is turned off by it right now. But when applied with a stippling brush, it gives cheeks just the right amount of pop of red. I keep the rest of my face pretty neutral when wearing Scandalous.

MAC Blushbaby

At first glance Blushbaby reminds me of Douceur. When swatched next to each other, Blushbaby is visibly pinker whereas Douceur has a hint of brown. Blushbaby is also matte, Douceur is a little shimmery.

Sleek Aruba

Aruba, even though the name definitely doesn't make me think of falling leaves, makes a great fall blush! It's great for those that want an orange blush but think Taj Mahal is just not doable for them. Aruba should also be applied with caution as it can very easily be overdone.

theBalm Cabana Boy

My one and only blush in this shade. A gorgeous mauve that compliments pretty much any look! I can see Cabana Boy looking great on many different skin tones!

Annabelle #48
This beautiful shade looks pretty similar to Cabana Boy but is a little more pinker, I think Cabana Boy is bit more purple. Great for days you want a little color that's suitable for day looks.

Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in Honey Dipped
This amazing product became one of my favorite cheek products ever since receiving it in my June Birchbox few months ago. It gives my face a glow like no other and looks especially gorgeous with red lips. I included it in this post because I only use it as a blush as it's too shimmery to use as a bronzer for me.

Cargo Topeka

A shimmery, peach with gold shimmer. What sets Topeka apart from other peach blushes is that while being shimmery, it's still subtle and doesn't make you look like a disco ball.

L-R: NARS Lovejoy, Barry M Terracotta, MAC Blushbaby, NARS Douceur, Cargo Topeka

L-R: Annabelle #48, theBalm Cabana Boy, Sleek Scandalous, Laura Geller Honey Dipped

L- Sleek Aruba R - NARS Taj Mahal

What are your favorite fall blushes?

Discovering - Z Palette

2011-10-03T21:20:00.001-05:00

I needed a good, sturdy palette that will house and protect my eye shadows during traveling. I do not find MAC palettes to be sturdy or protective at all. They are great to keep eye shadows organized as long as you are at home. But for traveling, no. I have learned it the hard way. As you can see from below photos a good number of my eye shadows have chipped and cracked inside the MAC palettes during air travel even though I always have my eye shadows with me on board. I even had a gorgeous shade (MAC Humid *tear*) shatter into pieces in a MAC palette. Though I haven't traveled with the Z palette just yet I am pretty confident in it because I can definitely see the big and positive difference between the two.

Before receiving my palette I was afraid it would be too fragile and flimsy because the outside material is actually cardboard. Today I was proven wrong. It looks and feels very solid and well-made. I think this will last through many trips!

I love that it has a clear lid so you can see what's in it. It has enough space for 28 MAC eye shadows. Yep, it's an eye shadow lover's dream come true. No more worrying about what to take or what to leave behind when you're going out of town you may as well take it all :)

The base of the palette is fully magnetized. However unless you have MAC/Inglot or other brand's eye shadows in already magnetized pans, you will need to magnetize the back of your pans that way they will stay in place. Lid is also magnetized and very strong, in fact it's a little tough to open it with just one hand.

Of course there is no rule that this palette is for eye shadows only. Here is how it looks with 4 MAC blushes and some eye shadows. I don't have too many MAC blushes in pans so I have done a little research to find out exactly how many blushes a Z palette can hold and the answer is 8.

Z palette is much thicker than a MAC palette but only a little over half an inch longer and wider.

Z palettes come in three sizes, small ($14) large ($20) and Pro ($28). Small and large come in 4 colors; pink, black, leopard and zebra. Pro, the biggest size, comes in only black. I have purchased mine from the Z palette website. There is currently a 10% off discount code if you 'Like' Z palette's Facebook page. They have also just e-mailed customers about a discount on their pink palettes (both small and large) in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. This offer is valid until October 31 and looks like the discount is already reflected on their website so there is no need for a code.

What do you think about the Z palette? How do you store/travel with your eye shadows?

Imaginary at Work

2011-10-01T18:56:00.001-05:00

After my recent post showing my new paint pots from MAC's Posh Paradise collection, a few people requested that I do a look using Imaginary. I was quite surprised that it got more attention than Genuine Treasure which I honestly thought would be the one everyone would want to see in action. So today I decided to wear this gorgeous shimmery purplish blue goodness and thought I'd show you the results.

When I first got Imaginary, I knew right off the bat MAC's Club would be amazing paired with it. I have only played around swatching the two together and finally had the chance to wear them together today. I love the outcome! Well, show me one color that doesn't look good with Club! :)

Products

Face - Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse / MAC MSFN / elf bronzer / Cargo Topeka / elf Highlighter - Concealer Duo

Eyes - All MAC Imaginary (lid) / Deep Truth (patted on middle of lid, on top of Imaginary) / Plumage (used to blend) / Club (crease) / Phloof! (inner corners) / Brule (highlight)

elf Liquid Eyeliner / UD 24/7 Liner Zero / L'oreal Voluminous Carbon Black

Lips - YSL Gloss Pur 2

Wish you all a wonderful October! ♥

September Favorites

2011-09-29T20:57:00.001-05:00

Happy almost October! In case I haven't mentioned it enough already, I love fall and so excited that this wonderful season is already here! (at least for those of us in the northern hemisphere :)) I kept things pretty simple during September and got a great use out of few products that had been sitting untouched for months, glad to have reconnected with them!

Top swatches - MAC Genuine Treasure Pain Pot
Bottom swatches - L-R: Trax, Quarry, Brule

MAC Eye-shadows / Brule, Quarry, Trax

I sadly don't even remember the last time I touched Trax. Few weeks ago I visited Quarry. And Trax, being Quarry's next door neighbor, caught my eye and that's how I rediscovered this beauty! It's a mauve-y purple with gold flecks which is stunning and perfect for fall! Brule is a pretty ~~boring~~ neutral, but I love that it's buildable and instantly brightens up my eyes. I've used it quite a bit as an all over color, it also makes a neutral, matte highlight shade.

MAC Paint Pot in Genuine Treasure

Genuine Treasure is currently my go-to eye product I use when I am in a hurry or straight up lazy. Like most paint pots, it's easy to work with. I love the whole apply and go idea! ;)

L - theBalm Cabana Boy R - NARS Douceur

NARS Douceur

Favorite neutral/nude blush of the month! Compliments pretty much any look!

theBalm Cabana Boy

Favorite none-neutral blush of the month! It's the perfect plummy pink fall blush. Shows up pinker on me than it looks in the compact.

Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse

The main reason I'm including this product in my favorites post is actually because it was almost the only foundation I've used all month. Why? Because I'm really trying to use it up. It's not a bad foundation by any means, I especially love the finish it gives me when applied with Sigma F80 brush. The downside with this foundation is its longevity, lack of rather. However that is easily fixable with a setting powder.

Inglot Sleeks Cream Lip Paint #95

I've thoroughly enjoyed this bubblegum pink Inglot lipgloss which in reality is a combination of lipstick and a lip gloss. It doesn't really have a glossy finish a regular lip gloss would prove but it's not solid as a lipstick either. Best of both worlds!

Sephora Lipgloss in Bronzed Beauty

I'm surprised Bronzed Beauty even made it to my favorites! This mini lipgloss was part of the 3 pack of mini lip glosses I got as a birthday gift from Sephora on my last birthday. It took me almost an entire year to realize that I actually do enjoy it! It doesn't look like much in the tube, but once applied it's a gorgeous reddish burgundy with bronze shimmer, This is my first time using a Sephora brand lip gloss and I am pretty impressed. I love the non-sticky texture and its lasting power. Lasts me about a couple of hours.

Butter London All Hail The Queen

It's only been 10 days since I have picked up this beauty but thanks to its swatches all over blogosphere, I had already fallen in love with it before getting it! All Hail The Queen is a taupe with tiny specks of glitter, and will be getting quite a bit of love from me! I always love a good taupe or neutral nail polish in general but I love it even more when there's a little somethin' extra in it.

Seche Ridge Filling Base Coat

I always thought "a base coat is a base coat, what's the big deal?" Well looks like I was wrong all these years. Seche ridge filling base coat makes a world of a difference in my nail polish application routine! First of all all the ridges on my nails temporarily disappear thanks to this amazing product. Secondly it applies and dries (very quickly!) to amazing smoothness. It doesn't move or create patches on nails once I start applying nail polish. The list goes on! Definitely recommend it if you need a base coat with the qualities mentioned above.

Laura Mercier Creme de Pistache Hand Creme

Delicious combination of pistachios and vanilla. This hand cream screams luxury and I'm so happy to have it as part of my nighttime beauty ritual. It keeps my hands very well hydrated and soft. I am hoping and praying that this will be the hand cream that will come to my rescue once the freezing weather takes its toll on my poor hands!

Have you tried any of these products? What are your September favorites?

Posh Paradise Paint Pots = Love

2011-09-22T17:29:00.000-05:00

In the past couple of months I have developed an unhealthy obsession for MAC paint pots. I think the main reason I am this amazed by them is due to the fact that they last all day without a single sign of creasing! They are soo easy to use, ideal for effortless yet pretty looks on days anything including makeup application is a drag, we all have those lazy days! Did I mention I love the color selection??

The second I found out MAC was releasing yet another collection, Posh Paradise, I immediately hopped onto my computer and googled away for swatches. I knew right then and there that Imaginary and Genuine Treasure were made with me in MAC's mind.

Check out how gorgeous these little treasures are...

Genuine Treasure is the more wearable of the two, though that depends on how brave you're with your make up. Some people just prefer a more neutral look for the daytime, nothing wrong with that. I would totally wear Imaginary during the day as well. According to MAC's description Genuine Treasure is an antiqued gold, with light brown reflects. Genuine Treasure is glitter but nothing of chunky or gritty nature. Imaginary is a blackened dark blue/navy. Just like any other paint pot, these two set right away and last all day! Texture is very creamy for both. They are easily wearable alone. In fact, I've been resorting to Genuine Treasure quite a bit lately with only black gel liner and mascara.

I have used Imaginary as a base for a smokey eye using Hocus Pocus and some Print. I think it makes an amazing base for smokey looks. I know, now you're wondering 'where is the proof??'. Well, I don't have any photos because as usual I was in a hurry and taking photos didn't even cross my mind! Hopefully I will create a look using at least one and photographing it, some day!

Have you picked up anything from Posh Paradise?

Birchbox / September

2011-09-13T20:05:00.000-05:00

This month Birchbox celebrates its first birthday, therefore September's box was created with us subscribers in the Birchbox team's mind. They have included samples of some of their favorite products as well as a little treat to say 'thank you' to us!

My first impression of this month's box was pretty good! I immediately saw the mascara and that made my day a whole lot better as we don't get much makeup in Birchboxes.

I have never heard of Lash Card before. It's basically a tool, made out of thicker paper, you use when applying mascara to avoid smudging, clumping and other mascara-related accidents. I like the idea of if and think it'd be great for when you have that extra minute to perfect your eye makeup. This will be my first time trying a Blinc product, I haven't heard much about them either so I'm not sure what to expect. It's a pretty decent sized sample though. The packaging states that this mascara actually doesn't "paint" lashes but it rather 'tubes' them. It also says that we will see the tiny 'tubes' in our hands upon removal. This mascara is supposedly not removable with water/makeup remover alone but with a little pressure from fingertips/washcloth or shower. I am really curious about these tubes now!

I was taken by surprised after seeing these Incoco nail polish appliques! I haven't even ever tried the Sally Hansen ones (though I bought the neon yellow ones because they were $2, just to try them out). I like these appliques and am looking forward to trying them. I think the zebra pattern with light coral/copper is a great combo. I will more than likely use just one on one finger as an accent unless I feel wild enough to cover all my nails!

I have also never heard of LIV GRN until now. Apparently they make natural fragrances/products from sustainable ingredients. It has a nice and clean scent, not sure about lasting power yet though. I have heard of Jouer, thanks to Birchbox. This Jouer sample is a lip enhancer - conditioning lip treatment. It has a very light, pleasant scent and it's very balm-like. I have worn it since opening the box - it's quite moisturizing!

This month extra and 'thank you' treat is this pink friendship bracelet with the Birchbox logo. I think it was a cute touch and thoughtful of Birchbox. I also found the pink string pretty cute, because who doesn't like pink! ;)

I'm happy with this month's Birchbox, what do you think? Did you have any different samples?

theBalm Bahama Mama Bronzer

2011-09-12T23:19:00.001-05:00

Next up in my theBalm series is the Bahama Mama bronzer. I didn't need another bronzer but again the $9.99 price tag was too good of a deal to walk away from. I would literally have nightmares about it had I left TjMaxx without this product that day.

I usually end up loving my impulse purchases so much afterwards. Bahama Mama is yet another one of those products. I didn't need a bronzer because I thought I was satisfied with the other 3 I already own. Right when you think you found the bronzer, you find another one. It's a vicious cycle. I used to be in love with Too Faced Chocolate Soleil (which I still do like) until Bahama Mama came along.

The matte and rich brown color of Bahama Mama makes it the perfect contour shade for my skin tone. It's not one of those deceiving bronzers that look brown in the pan and orange when applied. I find Bahama Mama to be quite pigmented and easily buildable to desired intensity. The texture is soft, kind of comparable to Benefit Hoola. Color transfers beautifully on the skin and it's a breeze to blend. It gives my face a nice warmth and does a wonderful job defining cheekbones. I find it to last all day without the need of touch ups.

I just couldn't conclude my post without comparison swatches of Bahama Mama and 3 other popular bronzers.

L-R: Bahama Mama, Benefit Hoola, elf Bronzer, Too Faced Chocolate Soleil

Bahama Mama is the darkest of the 4 and closest to elf's bronzer and blush duo's bronzer side. It's much darker than Benefit Hoola and Too Faced Chocolate Soleil, which I was head over heels in love with previously. And Hoola even more previously. (Read my Chocolate Soleil review here if interested) Since discovering Bahama Mama, Chocolate Soleil got placed on the back burner. In other words, Bahama Mama > Chocolate Soleil > Hoola. I feel like Bahama Mama makes a great contour color for me which is the main reason I use bronzers anyway. Don't get me wrong, these are all great bronzers and I was insanely attached to each at one point. I just happen to love my newest bronzer a little more at the moment.

Bahama Mama retails for $19 at Sephora and theBalm's website. As I've been suggesting, make sure to check your TjMaxx if you're interested in trying theBalm products. You may find them there for much cheaper prices.

Wishing you all a wonderful week! ♥

MAC Favorites / Neutral Eyeshadows

2011-09-10T19:19:00.002-05:00

I've been wanting to write about my favorite neutral MAC eye shadows for the past week but either it was super cloudy out and would just be pointless to even try to take decent photos or when it was nice and sunny I was out enjoying the weather. Today I was finally able to get some good photos and here they are! I would repurchase all of these gorgeous shades.

Top: Phloof!, Orb, Naked Lunch, Grain, Wedge

Middle: Era, All That Glitters, Sable, Patina, Omega

Bottom: Femme-Fi, Retro-Speck, Woodwinked, Texture, Brown Down

L-R:

Phloof! - My go-to inner corner color of choice, it helps define and brighten eyes with a little sparkle!

Orb - Great all over or brow bone color for neutral looks.

Naked Lunch - Perfect as all over or on inner corners, this is definitely one of my go-to 'lazy day' shades

Grain - My daily lid color, goes with anything and everything

Wedge - Love it on my crease for blending soft, daytime smokey eye

L-R

Era - Go-to taupe.

All That Glitters - It's in my daily MAC quad, need I say more?

Sable - Beautiful mix of plum, gold and bronze. One of my favorite fall shades and looks great by itself!

Patina - See All That Glitters' description.

Omega - I use it for blending out crease colors in the same family.

L-R:

Femme-Fi - only one of my many favorite all over colors, great for daytime.

Retrospeck - very wearable shimmery light gold also looks great on inner corners with a darker look.

Woodwinked - Favorite coppery-gold that looks beautiful on lower lash line

Texture - an absolute must on crease when I'm doing a smokey look with Print (which is also a neutral favorite of mine but I talk about it all the time that I didn't even feel the need to include it in this post :))

Brown Down - Perfect brown for smokey brown look, love it on the crease and lower lash line.

What are your favorite neutral MAC eye shadows?

theBalm Frat Boy

2011-09-07T23:09:00.001-05:00

I'm sure many of you have seen that I've gone a little theBalm crazy at TjMaxx couple weeks ago. If you've missed my haulage post click here. There were a few ladies that wanted me to review Frat Boy first so here it is! ;)

Color

According to theBalm it's peachy/apricot - according to me it's pinky/peach.

Packaging

Cute, and reminds me of high school! The blush is embedded in cardboard packaging and is a compact with a mirror. I always love to find a mirror in there! I normally do not take blushes with me but it's nice to know that I can if I want to. The compact is pretty thin and light in weight.

Texture/Finish

Velvety smooth and applies like a breeze. It's very easy to blend and I find it to be buildable if you like more color. It is a matte blush thus making it great for those who don't like shimmer or glitter overload products.

Lasting Power

Lasts between 6 to 7 hours, then starts to slowly fade.

Who is it good for?

People who don't like shimmer and just want a flush of color that's easy to wear during the day. It's a great everyday blush!
People who prefer paraben/sulfate/synthetic-free products. Yes, theBalm makes many of their products without many chemicals. Check each product ingredient list, some of them have chemicals that others don't.

As you can see from my photos above, it looks more pink than anything on me and on my swatches. Okay maybe I see a little hint of peach if I focus well!

Frat Boy retails for $21 (.03oz) at Sephora but I scored it for $9.99 at TjMaxx, yeah that was a good day! I do like this blush and have been reaching for it quite a bit these days, I haven't really been wearing a variety of colors for makeup lately. Frat Boy is perfect when I want a little bit of color on my face without the effort. It gives me that healthy look :)

What do you think of theBalm? Any favorites?

Sleek Treats

2011-09-06T17:15:00.000-05:00

Just a few weeks ago, Sleek had free shipping to U.S. with $75 purchase. I had a few products on my wishlist that I was craving so badly but knew the total wouldn't add up to $75 so I put it off...literally for few minutes. Because that's when the lovely Kayla came to my rescue. She was a sweetheart to add my order to her own then ship my stuff to me that way we'd have free shipping.

I died when I saw Sleek's Caribbean collection ages ago. I know for some of you lucky girls Sleek is only a few feet away and this is old news. For us on this side of the pond, it's a big deal :) I knew I had to get the Bonaire Pout Polish and Aruba blush from the Caribbean. I was also looking for a red blush for fall/winter and I found Scandalous which I adore. I always wanted Exhibit A by NARS but could never bring myself to shell out money for a blush this color which I wouldn't use a lot. Well the two are almost identical, Exhibit A is just a tad more orange according to my swatch search. Because my life would be incomplete without a pink product, I also threw Powder Pink pout polish in my order as well.

Scandalous

It's a matte, very pigmented bright tomato red. It's everything I wanted it to be. The more I use Scandalous the more I fall in love with it. At first I thought I would throw it in my blush rotation every now and then to mix things up a bit. I'm already reaching for it quite a bit, I can see it becoming quite popular for me in fall/winter.

Aruba

I could have sworn it's close to the popular Taj Mahal by NARS but you can see below they are oceans apart. I thought Taj Mahal was a super bright and scary orange. Well let me reassure you, Aruba is what I thought Taj Mahal was. It's a matte, bright orange. Nothing to be scared about as long as you use a stippling brush. It's so beautiful in the pan and on cheeks.

Both of these blushes should be used sparingly unless you're going for a look in which you want cheeks to be the emphasis.Because they are so pigmented, I use a stippling brush to pick up just a little bit of color, which is more than enough. They both last all day on my normal skin, no need for touch ups! Sleek blushes retail for $6.50 on their website.

Taj Mahal on left, Aruba in the middle and Aruba blended on the right. As you can see Taj Mahal and Aruba are nothing alike.

Bonaire & Powder Pink

Bonaire is a light orange and Powder Pink is a bubblegum pink. Both shades are non-shimmery and apply like a dream. After they wear off, they leave lips smooth and conditioned. I don't find them to be sticky, which I loathe when it comes to lip products. They are tinted therefore are not opaque. They do enhance the color of other semi-opaque lip products in similar colors. Lasting power isn't the best, then again I haven't found that many lip glosses that last much longer than these pout polishes do. It's just against human nature. I'd say these last a couple of hours, considering you don't eat or drink. I love the added bonus, they are formulated with SPF 15! Sleek pout polishes have a vanilla/caramel smell and they can be overwhelming for some but I actually like it. The scent kind of reminds me of the Slatkin and Co candle in Frosted Cupcake. Pout polishes retail for $6.50

L - Bonaire R - Powder Pink

These products seem kind of loud and bright at first glance, almost as I am preparing for summer makeup. But I think they will all (ok maybe with the exception of Powder Pink) make great fall products. I love my reds and oranges (and browns, and taupes!) in fall :)

What do you think? What colors do you like for fall makeup/nail polishes?

August Favorites

2011-09-01T14:11:00.003-05:00

Happy September!!!

I don't know about you but I'm definitely looking forward to a brand new season and new fall makeup trends. I love summer and will definitely miss many things about it, but I'm ready for a change. In August I have kept things pretty simple for the most parts. Here are the products I've enjoyed the most!

I loved my YSL Gloss Pur #2 for daytime looks, it's a versatile milky baby pink. My other lip product obsession has been Sleek's pout polish in Bonaire. Don't be fooled by its brightness in the pot, once applied it leaves lips with a wearable light orange tint.

I have gone to my daily quad for most of my eye makeup looks this month. This is my go-to palette (besides my Too Faced Natural Eye) for daytime looks. And thanks to MAC's Print I can go from day to night in a snap. If you're wondering, I have Grain on top left, All That Glitters on top right, Patina on bottom left and Print on bottom right.

Elf's blush and bronzer duo's bronzer is one of my favorite bronzers that I use for contouring. I just love that it defines my cheekbones perfectly. For me it's also a two in one kind of product as I love using it as a blush too! While I love the color of this bronzer, I could never find the perfect brush to use it with. That's when I met Sigma's small contour brush. They are perfect together and I used them like crazy in August. As you can see I used the bronzer so much I even hit pan on it! :)

I've been absolutely loving glittery nail polish. At first my favorite was Milani's Jewel FX in Gold (which I still love) but when I saw Sephora by OPI's Spark-tacular my heart skipped a beat! On days where I wanted more polished hands I opted for OPI's Mod About You. And finally Essie's Trophy Wife has been going strong on my toes. I keep removing and reapplying like there is no tomorrow.

Essie Trophy Wife, OPI Mod About You, Sephora by OPI Spark-tacular, Milani Jewel FX Gold

What are some of your August favorites?

Finished Up / August

2011-08-30T23:07:00.000-05:00

Origins Never a Dull Moment Face Cleanser

Some of you may remember seeing this face wash on my blog as I have written a post about the Be Bright special edition box it was part of back in April. Unbelievably, this sample lasted me a little over 4 months! It is a gel face wash and just a tiny drop of it creates a froth like I've never seen before, little goes a very long way with it. I use it daily with my Clarisonic Mia and happy to report that it works great. I feel like it thoroughly cleans my face leaving it soft and smooth. I hardly ever see any trace of makeup when I am applying my toner right afterwards. It's also Paraben-free! I've already purchased the full size as you can see below - estimating for it to last me 2 years! :)

Bath and Body Works Coconut Body Wash

Coconut Pineapple was one of the few new scents Bath and Body Works released for summer this year. I enjoyed every single minute of using this amazing body wash and I'm kind of sad that I finished it (Call me crazy but while using it, I had other body washes in rotation so I don't finish it too fast). In my most recent Bath and Body Works trip, I have spotted the summer collection on sale for 50% off, I may go back and stock up.

Garnier Fructis Style Full Control Hair Spray - Strong

I don't think I've ever wanted to finish a product so bad as I did with this hairspray. It took forever to finish but it finally did! I love its scent and hate that it leaves my hair super sticky. It makes it feel hard to touch. Unfortunately its supposedly "strong" hold doesn't really hold curls or style for that long, I'd say about 4 hours at most. I will not be repurchasing.

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo

I picked up the Moroccan Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner because I just couldn't pass up the buy one, get one free deal at Walgreens about a month ago. Well, sorry to say it's yet another product that doesn't work for me. Just like the Garnier hairspray I've talked about above, this shampoo smells divine but leaves my hair unbelievably dry and stripped off its natural oils. I also feel like after every wash my hair is tangled, thank goodness for conditioners. Nice to try you Organix but I won't be repurchasing.

MATRIX Biolage Ultra-Hydrating Balm

I've used the entire Biolage Hydratherapie line before I started blogging and that's when I began venturing out to trying other haircare products. It's always love all over again when I use any product from this collection. This balm, which I use as a conditioner, truly conditions my hair, leaves it tamed and soft. Matrix isn't a cheap brand but I always stock up when Ulta has the buy 3 get 2 free promotion because I know if everything else fails, I have something reliable to fall back on. Matrix makes some amazing haircare products that my hair loves!

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Vanilla Coconut

I'm officially done with my first Lavanila stick which was the Vanilla Coconut. Last time I was at Sephora sniffing all the scents, I believe there are 5, the only one I truly liked was Vanilla Coconut. In fact the other ones kind of made me gag. But this time I just loved the Vanilla Grapefruit so ended up getting it. I am really enjoying using this pricey ($18) but aluminum-free, healthy deodorant.

I think I did ok this month, I was reeeeally hoping to finish that MAC Fix+ I'm trying to finish for the past year! Maybe next month?

Are there any products that you're desperately wanting to finish?

MAC Ravishing & Friends

2011-08-25T13:40:00.001-05:00

As you may already know, I have a ~~huge~~ slight obsession with peaches, corals, peachy-corals...you get the point. I usually focus on two types of products when it comes to these gorgeous shades; blushes and lipsticks. So when I saw MAC had a lipstick called Ravishing, I decided it only makes sense to add it to my collection. According to my swatch search it was not supposed to look this similar to all the other lipsticks I own in this shade.

But it does. After seeing Ravishing in person, I immediately ran to my other lipsticks. Guess which 3 came to mind first!

L-R:

Ravishing - Cremesheen

Jazzed - Cremesheen

Ever Hip - Cremesheen

Gotta Dash - Sheen Supreme Lipstick

Verdict...

They are all somewhat similar once applied. In my opinion, Ravishing seems to be the most pigmented of them all even though Ravishing, Jazzed and Ever Hip are all in Cremesheen finish. Gotta Dash pulls a bit more towards orange than the other three.Gotta Dash is also a different type of lipstick as it's from MAC's Sheen Supreme line. I feel like with Sheen Supremes, lips need a bit of prepping due to their texture. They seem to cause the product to settle in cracks on lips. I do love Ravishing and I will keep it. Jazzed and Ever Hip being Limited Edition products makes me feel a littler better about Ravishing.

What do you think? Is there a lipstick shade that you just can't resist?

Discovering - TheBalm

2011-08-20T21:20:00.002-05:00

I have heard of TheBalm many times before, thanks to all the blog posts I have seen featuring their gorgeous products. I just didn't know which part of the brand I should tackle first. So I made a small list of few products and forgot about them once I stepped a foot in Sephora. It's just really difficult to follow a list and is very easy to lose track in that store! :D

While shopping at TjMaxx the other day, I decided to check out the bath/body/beauty area....and what do I see? A huge shelf of TheBalm goods! Score!

First Impressions of the brand...

- TheBalm has great sense of humor, product/shade names clearly show that!
- Cute and fun packaging
- All products (at least the ones I have shown in this post) are compacts, in other words come with mirrors
- Even more importantly majority of TheBalm products are formulated without Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances/Dyes, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, GMOs and Triclosan

I didn't include any swatches in this as this post is just a haul/first impressions post. I think it'd be more appropriate to include swatches with reviews which I will do for each as I try them.

Bahama Mama

Bronzer

Frat Boy
Peach/Apricot Blush

Shady Lady Vol. 3
9 Shimmery Eye Shadows/Eyeliners

Meet Matt(e)
9 Matt Shades

Betty-Lou Manizer
All-in-one Gold Highlighting/Bronzing Powder, Eyeshadow

If you have been wanting to try TheBalm (at more affordable prices) definitely check out your local T.J.Maxx or Marshalls stores. I know these stores can be totally unpredictable but in my opinion it's worth a try! I got all of these products for at least half off their retail prices if not more.

Hope you're all enjoying your weekend! ♥

Have you tried any of these products?

Spark-tacular

2011-08-19T19:55:00.001-05:00

Who goes to Sephora to buy a particular product and walks out with that product plus something totally unplanned? Me! I had absolutely no intentions of buying nail polish while at Sephora. The main reason I went to Sephora was because I ran out of my favorite Lavanila deodorant and needed to buy a new one. Sephora needs to stop placing all those gorgeous nail polishes right next to the checkout area. Standing in the line, I my eyes met the glorious nail polish rack. So I walked out with the first nail polish that caught my eye...Spark-tacular.

Sephora by O.P.I Spark-tacular AKA Party in a bottle!

I've been on a glittery nail polish kick lately. It all started with...I don't even remember! But they have a special place in my heart. I was previously contemplating getting Deborah Lippman's Happy Birthday but $18 a pop discouraged the heck out of me, I mean it is glitter after all. While the two aren't dupes, as Happy Birthday has much chunkier glitters, Spark-tacular will suffice. Spark-tacular has some bigger glitter pieces but majority of it is small glitter pieces. I think it has every color one can think of.

I really wanted a white base for this top coat, so I made a pit stop at Sally Beauty Supply and grabbed China Glaze White on White. Without a doubt, they complete each other.

On the left photo, I have only one coat of Spark-tacular and on the right I have two (with the exception of index finger). I love them both! I was in the mood for very glittery nails so that's why I went for the second coat.

P.S. Kudos to Sephora for having nail polish testers. That makes the life of a nail polish addict much easier!

Do you like glittery nails? What are your favorite glitter polishes?

Products I'm Loving Now

2011-08-17T16:26:00.000-05:00

Today I wanted share with you some products I just can't keep my hands off of these days. They all do deserve their own respective posts and may get them at one point in future. If you're wondering "but what about your recently rediscovered products?" Yes I am trying to use them as much as I can but the products below interfere big time. Ahh I just love makeup and nail polish...and every little thing that has to do with them :)

Milani Luminoso

One of the many peach toned blushes I own. Milani has done a fantastic job with their baked blush collection. This is only my second Milani blush, first one being Rose D'oro which I equally love. Luminoso creates such a soft look for the day time. I absolutely love pairing it with Dior Amber Diamond, I feel like the two make the ultimate day time cheek combo.

MAC Paint Pot - Indianwood

Indianwood is one of the newest pieces in my collection. I wasn't ever really into paint pots until recently, now all of a sudden I want them all. Besides the fact that Indianwood is a stunning antiqued gold color, approximately a minute after application it doesn't move, thus making it perfect for hot summer days. I've been wearing it on its own a lot lately.

MAC Lipstick - Lady Danger

I did it. I am wearing a red lipstick. Further more, I wore a lipstick OUT. It's epic. I honestly gave up on the idea of being able to comfortably wear a red lipstick out a while ago. My sister who is my red (and really bright colored anything) lipstick idol rocked her reds, magentas and every other color in between and I just admired her all this time. I was always secretly envious of her ability to easily wear these lipsticks and hopelessly tried many different colors for a long time to find the one that makes me feel good. Then I met Lady Danger. It sat in my lipstick drawer for almost 2 months until I whipped it out a week ago. It's love, no question about that. Wearing Lady Danger makes me feel good :)

Milani Jewel FX - Gold & Essie Trophy Wife

I've seen Milani Jewel FX Gold in many blogs and looked for it every time I was at a drugstore (which is sadly pretty frequent) and was never able to find it. Now I know why. This thing is gorgeous! If you love chunky gold glitter, then you need this in your life. Trophy Wife is a shimmery teal which looks pretty on toes - love! I think it will definitely be one of my top 5 go-to nail polishes for fall!

Sigma Tapered Highlighter F35

F35 was a much needed addition for my makeup brush collection as I never had a proper highlighter brush, it was about time. I have seen Tanya from pixi2woo use it in one of her recent videos and loved the effect it created, I was sold. It really does make a big difference in highlighter application because of it's pointy tip. That way you get highlighter only in the area you want and not around it.

What are you guys loving these days?

Favorite NYX Lipsticks

2011-08-11T16:49:00.000-05:00

While going through my stash the other day, I have realized that I have never done a post on my favorite NYX round lipsticks. So today's post is all about them!

Pros:

Selection - I assume they have close to 70 shades, if not more

Texture - They are very creamy and moisturizing
Finish - Glossy, therefore no need for lipgloss

Affordability - $3.99 at Ulta, can be found on sale for cheaper prices online
Availability - Easily accessible at Ulta (online and in stores) Cherryculture and NYX website

Cons:

Some shades aren't very long-lasting

Majority of them have an almost plastic kind of scent

Circe - Brown based nude (dupe for Viva Glam Gaga 2)

Orange Soda - Pale orange nude

Pumpkin Pie - Pale peachy nude

L-R: Circe, Orange Soda, Pumpkin Pie

T-B: Tea Rose, Indian Pink, Harmonica, Narcissus

Tea Rose - Dusty mauve-y pink

Indian Pink - Coral with gold shimmer

Harmonica - Frosty baby pink

Narcissus - Cool barbie pink

Tea Rose, Indian Pink, Harmonica, Narcissus

Top: Pumpkin Pie, Tea Rose

Middle: Narcissus, Circe

Bottom: Indian Pink, Harmonica, Orange Soda

What are your favorite NYX lipsticks/products?

Birchbox / August

2011-08-08T17:41:00.000-05:00

It's Birchbox time!!!

But wait...I am not even happy about it. Because this month's samples were a little disappointing. I actually cheated and watched Yuliya's August Birchbox video yesterday and felt kind of "blah" about it. Funny because I didn't even receive the same samples as her (at least she and many others received an eyeliner!). So now I am double disappointed.

Besides the Smashbox photo finish primer (which I have used before) I have not heard of any of the other brands. Looking forward to seeing what Ouidad climate control gel will do for my hair. I could see The Cool Fix becoming a staple in my life if it works. It's a gel lotion for razor bump/burn and ingrown hair treatment. We shall see. June Jacobs Papaya Masque sounds and smells yummy but I can never see myself shelling out $62 for a masque, ever. With that much money, I could just go get a relaxing facial in stead.

Oh and we have this...

Honestly, when I saw this piece of elastic in the box first thing that came to my mind was "oh I guess whoever packed my box forgot an extra ribbon in there". Then I read the contents card.I just don't see what's so special about this elastic. It's an elastic. It was the "extra" this month. I would have seriously rather had another KIND bar instead. Anyway, I try everything at least once. So I tied my hair, and I also wore it on my wrist because according to the card it's supposed to look equally good on your hair and wrist. Hmm not so sure about that.

At this point, I am having a love/hate relationship with Birchbox. And it's not me, it's you Birchbox.

Any other disappointed subscribers out there? Is there anyone excited about their box this month?

Stash Shopping

2011-08-07T01:16:00.000-05:00

Every once in a while, I like to visit my little makeup collection and dig out products that have been collecting dust. I should do it more often but when you keep adding to your collection, it becomes nearly impossible. Especially when all your love is focused on the new products, nobody honestly wants to use old products just for the sake of using.

I think I've been behaving in terms buying. I do add new products little by little but I don't buy for the sake of buying. So I visited my stash and dug out some items that I should show a little love to!

MAC Paint Pot in Vintage Selection

The gorgeous Vintage Selection was one of the 4 limited edition paint pots in Cham Pale collection. I initially wanted to completely pass up this collection based on online swatches. When I swatched Vintage Selection in store, I fell in love. It's such a shame that I ignored it this long. It's really easily wearable during the day as a base or even alone. You can take it from day to night by adding a darker crease color. I love it, so glad we're back together :)

MAC Fluidline in Siahi

I missed out on Siahi once as it sold out super fast when they released it in the Mickey Contractor collection. But then it was back in stock and I just had to have it. Since then, I think I've used it 3 times, maybe. Its blueish teal color is just stunning. Looks great both on upper lash line or water line for a pop of color.

Sephora Colorful Mono Pearl No. 09

I bought this beautiful pearly peach shade last year while aimlessly wandering around at Sephora one day and kind of forgot about it after a few uses. It looks gorgeous with a tan, especially when used wet! I will be incorporating it to my day looks more, it makes a great everyday color!

Revlon Coral Reef, Sally Hansen Princess, Wet n Wild 903C

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Coral Reef

Coral Reef is a coral that is definitely season appropriate. I can only laugh at myself for bringing it out in the last month of summer. Lip glosses just aren't really my go-to products during summer and this proves it!

Sally Hansen 12 Hr. Lip Treatment in Princess

Princess is my favorite nude lip gloss from the drugstore. It is shimmery but nothing of gritty nature, think more micro. Has a nice vanilla-like scent and I love that it doesn't leave my lips sticky like most other lip glosses do, I just cannot stand sticky lip glosses.

Wet n Wild Lipstick in 903C

Another summery lipstick I completely forgot I even owned! It's a matte salmon/light coral. Though matte, I don't find it to be drying on lips as I do with many of the other matte lipsticks. It also lasts a good while on my lips, yay for not having to reapply - at least that often!

Revlon Coral Reef, Sally Hansen Princess, Wet n Wild 903C

Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse

While checking out my foundations drawer, I came across this Maybelline foundation I have picked up last year. (See my review here) I can't even believe it was more than a year ago! As you can tell from my photo below, I haven't used it much since then. Honestly I was kind of shocked/surprised to see that it cracked big time. But it managed to keep its consistency and did not dry at all. It's still quite creamy as the first day I bought it and still wears the same. I will try to use this up within the next couple of months as I don't think it will make it into the next year.

How often do you shop your stash? Any rediscoveries?

July Favorites

2011-08-02T21:45:00.004-05:00

Happy August everyone! I'm a bit late with my July favorites post as I've caught this annoying cold, in the middle of summer. But I do feel a bit better today, so here I am with my favorites post :)

This month I reconnected with a few old favorites. I did a little shopping in my stash and glad that I rediscovered some great products I haven't shown any love to in a long time.

Most used blushes award goes to NARS Taj Mahal and Benefit Coralista. I haven't really used neither one for a good couple of months! I seem to associate Taj Mahal with Thanksgiving or fall in general because of its pumpkin-like color but it actually makes a perfect summer blush.

Two products I have rediscovered; Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencil in Kenya and MAC Paint Pot in Vintage Selection. What on earth was I thinking when I stopped using these two products? I haven't used Kenya in years, not even kidding. I love everything about this pencil; it does something magical to my brown eyes, they look so sparkly whenever I wear it! I love that it comes with a smudger, I wear it smudged on both upper and lower lash-line for an effortless look. This pencil surprisingly does not even budge a bit. Vintage Selection was totally forgotten about since I picked it up earlier this year. I love wearing it as a base under the "Eyelid" color from Wet n Wild's Walking on Eggshells trio or even alone in those too-lazy-to-do-my-make-up kind of days.

My now melting Shy Girl lipstick and Rimmel's Pink Chic were really the only two lipsticks that got love from me last month. July wasn't such a lipstick kind of month. I have something against wearing lipstick in hot and humid weather, I guess.

L-R China Glaze Pink Voltage, OPI Glitzerland, OPI Sparkle-icious

For the most part, I have done some kind of a combination of these nail polishes in July. I cannot get enough of them, they're all gorgeous!

....and here are some miscellaneous products. I have picked up this heaven-sent Ulta bronzer mitt at the end of June and I can never be without it again. No more faux-tanned palms! Vaseline Cocoa Butter gel body oil is amazing if you want a little glow on your legs while sporting leg-baring outfits. A little goes a very long way with this oil. It also lasts forever; I have worn it while going out on a few occasions and it seemed to last all night! This little Redken shine spray was actually a sample from the July Birchbox. I didn't really think I would end up enjoying it so much but I do. I spray it all over my hair after styling with curling/flat iron. It gives an incredibly healthy shine to my hair without looking greasy. It also seems to keep my hair frizz-free!

Hope everyone's having a great week! ♥

Finished Up / July

2011-07-30T22:30:00.000-05:00

This month's theme was body scrubs, I went through these like nobody's business! Well I guess when you're self-tanning, body scrubs are your best friend. Because I am slapping on faux tanners like crazy (since I am not going anywhere yet and I still want that I-just-got-back-from-some-exotic-place kind of tan) I need to exfoliate my skin in between applications to get the best tan I can. Plus I really enjoy that super clean feeling you get after exfoliating, anybody feel me?

Lush Ocean Salt

The sole reason I ever bought Ocean Salt was because of the hype. I just don't see what most Ocean Salt users see. It's just a scrub. The only super cool thing about it is that you can supposedly use it even after shaving. It has such an abrasive texture and smells like some kind of an alcoholic beverage with lime - I wouldn't ever get it next to my freshly shaved skin to be honest. I don't think it's so extraordinary for me to shell out $$$ on it again.

DANI Sugar Scrub

I picked up this scrub a while back because it was made with organic ingredients. It has such a gentle sugary texture and feels great on skin. I think the sugar particles could be less refined and coarser. I do like it and would purchase if it was more widely available and came with a not-so-hefty price tag. I do like the fact that it's made with organic goods though!

H2O Vanilla Body Scrub

It's kind of heartbreaking that H2O discontinued this amazing scent a while ago. I was just fortunate to have spotted at one of my routine Ulta trips. It has such an amazing scent which isn't really vanilla-y at all but more like a mixture of milky vanilla and amber and maybe a hint musk. Texture-wise it's what I wanted the DANI sugar scrub to be. It was coarser yet gentle and did a fantastic job exfoliating!

EOS Shave Cream

This amazing EOS shaving cream is the best I have ever used. I have actually stopped using shaving creams because I was sick of wasting money on shaving creams/gels that don't do anything. Instead I had been using hair conditioners which also work. I love EOS products and when I spotted this shaving cream at a drugstore I wanted to give it a try. This particular one has a pomegranate raspberry scent which smells ah-mazing! I'm usually not a fan of cream products but this one I love. It's very moisturizing and I love that it leaves my skin smooth and soft to touch. Bonus: It's paraben-free! I will definitely be repurchasing!

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle

3 Minute Miracle is a great deep conditioner and especially coming from the drugstore it's pretty darn good! I don't use it after every shampoo, perhaps once every two weeks or whenever I feel like my hair needs a little pick-me-up. It leaves hair totally smooth, untangled and soft. It also smells like coconuts, yum!

Kérastase Bain Miroir Shampoo - Sample

This was just a little sample from the May Birchbox. Yeah I just got around to using it :) I initially thought it would only last me one shower session but I was wrong. A small amount of this shampoo lathers up quite good. So it took me a few showers to finish it up. It's a great product, has a light scent and leaves hair squeaky clean. I just don't know if I'd want to pay $30+ for a shampoo.

Hope everyone is having a lovely weekend! ♥

What products have you finished this month?

A Little Haul

2011-07-27T23:52:00.001-05:00

I haven't been shopping (for makeup that is) a whole lot lately, which cannot be a bad thing. For that reason I decided to reward myself with little treats. Okay the first two products aren't really a reward as they are more of a necessity, you will see what I mean in my "Finished up/July" post - let's just say I have been scrubbing like there is no tomorrow :)

While out thrift store shopping with a friend this past weekend, we decided to also hit up The Body Shop solely for purchasing body scrubs. I have used many, many different products from The Body Shop before but this is my first time trying their body scrubs so I am a little excited. According to my friend who already indulged in her Sweet Lemon scrub, it's AMAZING!

If you love citrus-y scents and happen to be looking for a body scrub then you must check out Sweet Lemon. I have tested it on my hand in store and it made my hand beyond smooth, I cannot even image what it will do to my entire body. I have also picked up Shea Butter body scrub because they had a promotion going on, and anyone that knows me knows that I have a problem turning down amazing deals/promotions. So the Shea Butter one says "For Very Dry Skin" which is not what my skin is like at all. But I don't care because the scent is just divine...I'll just pretend I have "very dry skin" while using this yummy product. By the way while taking the photo below, the two scents combined in the air creating an even more amazing scent. I will use a little bit of each for the ultimate exfoliation experiment. :)

Now onto the fun stuff!

I have been wanting the Beauty Blender for a long time and when I spotted it on Apothica's website (which I had a giftcard to) I just knew it was going to be mine!

Stila's gorgeous eye shadow in Diamond Lil was yet another product that had been eternally sitting on its spot on my list. To my surprise, it was on sale on Apothica's website. The price was just right! By the way if you were sad to have missed out on MAC's Smoke & Diamonds eyeshadow from Starflash collection, turn your frown upside down because these two are definitely twins!

This isn't my first Cargo purchase but it is my first Cargo blush purchase. I've been meaning to try one of their blushes since seeing them swatched and talked about on the gorgeous blushingpixie's channel on YouTube. I am so happy that I picked up Topeka and cannot wait to get even more colors. I don't think I've ever touched a blush so velvety soft!

Have you tried any of these products? What are some of your recent purchases?

Walking on Eggshells

2011-07-22T23:47:00.000-05:00

I will keep it short and sweet. I've seen Walking on Eggshells many times at the drugstore while picking up other Wet n Wild trios or singles but I honestly thought it was just another ~~boring~~ neutral trio. This was until the little lady behind Will Work for Makeup posted a comparison post of Walking on Eggshells and NARS Pleasures of Paris. While the two aren't dupes, couple shades are comparable. Oh I don't know, I just loved her post and had to get my hands on it. The rest is history...

Just like all of the trios Wet n Wild has been releasing lately, Walking on Eggshells is amazingly pigmented. This trio is great for everyday use and really for its price tag of $2.99 (and it's even further discounted during sales!) it's an amazing deal! All three shades are shimmery. The lightest or "browbone" is your typical brow bone color, pearly white. "Crease" color is bronze/brown and "Eyelid" color is pink-ish champagne.

I have used all the colors as Wet n Wild has suggested, I wasn't feeling creative :) Because I am self-tanning and darker than my natural color these days I felt like the crease color wasn't doing much so I did add a bit of the darkest shade from Wet n Wild's I'm Getting Sunburned trio to my crease.

I enjoy using this trio a lot. It helps create such effortlessly pretty looks both for day and nighttime. If you have lighter complexion than me, then you can definitely pull off the crease color as crease color. It doesn't not show up on me, I just prefer my crease color a tad darker.If you don't want to spend a fortune but want eye shadows with great pigmentation then you really cannot go wrong with Wet n Wild. I have purchased many of these little trios this year and have been absolutely amazed by all!

What do you think of Walking on Eggshells or other Wet n Wild trios?

Happy weekend! ♥

What's In My Bag + New Hair

2011-07-21T18:24:00.000-05:00

If you didn't already notice, "what's in my bag" posts are pretty popular among us beauty bloggers these days. I have seen my good blogger friend J (who has an amazing style!) over at Lil Lady's Life do this tag recently and I knew right then and there I must *steal* this idea :)

I don't know about you but I absolutely love the what's in my bag, makeup bag, suitcase and even fridge type of posts! I don't think it's nosy to wonder what sorts of things people have in these places, it's in human nature!

My bag is from Target, I bought it about 4 months ago when I had a liiiitttttle obsession with crossbody/messenger type of bags. I just love its color, shape, size and versatility. It goes with almost all of my daily outfits! It's a great everyday bag and honestly even though I love it a lot, I won't be terrified if I spill something on it or something unexpected happens to it.

Contents

Makeup Bag (you can see my What's in My Makeup Bag post here)

Hand Sanitizer - Say no to germs

Nail file - Say no to chipped, broken nails

The Body Shop Coconut Butter - Say no to dehydrated skin

Hair clip

Grey Bag

I don't use a wallet for one reason - I'm simply sick of taking out my driver's license and debit card/cash from my wallet to put it in this bag every single night when going to the gym. Because after coming back I have to put all of these things back into the wallet and sometimes I just forget. I lost count of how many times I've realized I was driving around without my driver's license or money!

Phone

Surprise surprise! My phone goes everywhere with me. I don't want to imagine life without my iPhone.

Phone charger

I like to think ahead and I also hate seeing I have 5% battery left so to avoid that my charger goes everywhere with me as well.

Band-aids

You never know.

Contact lens case/Glasses

These two items are total must-haves for me. I've been wearing contacts for 13 years and I don't even remember how many times a contact lens ripped while on my eye and I had to walk around with just one contact on. It's not even funny. In fact if your vision is -3.00 like mine it's seriously not funny. I like to be prepared just in case my contacts don't feel like doing their job that day and tear apart. So I can easily switch to glasses.

Polka dot pouch

I take thyroid medicine 3 times/day with meals so I carry my pills in this little pouch just in case I'm out for a meal.

Sunglassess

I wear them year round. This particular pair is from Tory Burch if you're interested. I love that they're huge and cover a good chunk of my face, love this style!

Keys

Self explanatory.

And here is my new hair. Just chopped off about 2 inches, nothing drastic. I love that the layers are more noticeable now and I think it's safe to say that I have found "the one", as in the hairdresser I will be going to from now on. Very happy with the results and I always love a hairdresser that can chat, really knows hair and has a great sense of humor. ;)

I don't know what happened to the lower part of my hair on the left photo, please try to ignore it :) It was taken after I got home and I think by the time I arrived home my hair was already frizzing up thanks to all of the 100 degrees today! O.o

Thanks for stopping by, hope you all had a great day! ♥

Apothica Giveaway Winner

2011-07-16T21:08:00.000-05:00

My Apothica giftcard giveaway ended last night and I have just chosen the winner - the old fashioned way!

The winner is....

Congratulations Erin! I will be e-mailing you shortly! :)

Deserves all the hype!

2011-07-14T23:57:00.001-05:00

Back in March, I have done a "Too Much Hype" post in which I've discussed my opinions about some of the overly hyped products that many of us own. A few people suggested I do a post about those products that I think deserve the hype as well, I thought it was a great idea. So here I am, four months later, with the post those of you requested! :) Obviously my opinions about these products are based on my personal experience. They may or may not work for you. I love them and recommend them to everyone every chance I get because I think they are that great!

NARS Blushes

I cannot think of only one shade that deserves recognition in this post, so I am referring to NARS blushes in general. I think NARS makes the most amazing blushes hands down. There is a great selection of colors, all shades are truly pigmented and make you feel great when you put them on.

Urban Decay Primer Potion

I think this is one of the best makeup inventions, ever. It helps my eye shadows and even eyeliners stay in place all day even in the hottest and most humid climates. Thinking back to the times when this miracle product wasn't invented, oh how I suffered from creasing and how I'd rub it with my finger to smear the crease..it gives me chills! I'm so happy you exist UDPP!

L'oreal Voluminous

Instantly gives me more volume, longer and fuller lashes. I can never go wrong with Voluminous. It's one of my two favorite mascaras, the other being Covergirl Lashblast. I love the curved brush for getting lashes in the hard to reach areas like the inner corner. Definitely HG status!

Too Faced Natural Eye

I can not have enough of Natural Eye, oh but that's nothing new as I talk about it all the time! I love the buttery soft colors, their jaw-dropping pigmentation and the fact that they're super easy to blend. These colors last all day on my semi-oily lids, in fact they do an amazing job lasting in disgustingly humid Chicago summers. I couldn't ask for more. All the shades are versatile enough to use for day and nighttime looks and you can even go from day to night in a snap using it! It's my go-to palette!

Dior Amber Diamond

I've tried many highlighters before and after Amber Diamond. Seriously, I cannot find anything that tops it! No it's not the Dior logo, it's not the packaging, it's the actual product and its power to create a glowy look! I think a lot of high end products are hyped up because...well, they cost a fortune! I've tried many high end products which I regretted buying shortly after believe me! Amber Diamond isn't cheap by any means, but it really brings the whole look together and gives a soft glow to my face :)

MAC 217

If someone asked me which MAC brush they should buy first, 217 would be my answer. It's talked about all the time because it makes blending eye shadows so much easier and fits perfectly in the crease. Over the years, I have noticed how my eye makeup changed, in a good way, thanks to 217. I haven't always blended out my eye shadows simply because I didn't know what I was doing. Looking at old photos, I can see what a big makeup crime I was committing back in the day! Phew, glad those days are over thanks to 217!

Sigma F80

F80 is one of the newer brushes Sigma introduced not too long ago. Regardless there is a huge hype about these new Sigmax brushes. I love all 3 but F80 has a special place in my heart. It creates such a flawless, airbrushed look especially when used with Revlon Photo Ready. If you're thinking about picking up one of the Sigmax brushes, I'd say definitely start out with F80!

What are some products that you think deserve the hype they get?

Birchbox / July

2011-07-11T18:19:00.001-05:00

It's Birchbox time again! This month's box got here fairly quickly, no complaints about shipping :) The July Birchbox is a special edition box. It was still shipped in the bright pink packaging as usual but this month, the actual box comes with a lovely Cynthia Rowley sleeve. The box also felt a bit heavier, so I was really curious to see what's in it!

Then I found out that the Redken Shine Flash 02 spray definitely had a great contribution to the weight! It's a glistening mist for a brilliant finish, which I'm looking forward to try. I love hair products, and can never try too many to perfect my hair! It smells great too! In my box, I also have a generous (for a brand like Philosophy) sample of Philosphy's famous Purity one-step facial cleanser which again I'm excited to try as I've heard great things about Purity used in conjunction with Clarisonic Mia. Let's see how I will like using the two together. Up next I have a little sample of Nuxe dry oil. I've never used a dry oil before so I can't really say much. I will use it and see how I like it. Even the small sample packaging looks kind of luxurious. The highlight of the July box must be the mini Zoya nail polish in Pandora which is part of Zoya's new Touch collection. Yay! The extra this month was a KIND Almond & Apricot bar which was happily consumed by yours truly while putting this post together. Holy yum is all I can say, I'll be making sure to look for this awesomeness in my next grocery shopping trip!

Not gonna lie, I was hoping to find a little makeup product in my box this month because of what I got in my box last month. But overall I am happy with this month's samples. My favorite product is definitely the nail polish. Based on the swatches I saw of Pandora, I think it'll be a great, everyday nail polish. I don't have anything close to its pearly blush pink color, so that's great! I am still on the fence about my subscription. I feel like the month I cancel, there will be great things in next box's month. Anyone else feel the same?

Have you tried any of these products before? Did you receive any different products in your box?

JULEP Nail Polishes

2011-07-09T23:44:00.001-05:00

I have just discovered this brand thanks to MissJenFabulous on YouTube. When she swatched some of her favorites in one of her recent videos, I knew I had to get my hands on some!

Julep Nail Parlor is an actual salon with several locations in beautiful Seattle and surrounding cities (beautiful because I spent some of the most awesome years of my life in Seattle :)) Julep offers a wide range of colors in different finishes. They specialize in "healthy" products meaning their nail polishes are 3-free. They also donate $1 from each nail polish sale to Powered by Girlfriends program that helps support organizations empowered by women!

Anne

An ultra-saturated violet, as described by Julep. Applies like a dream and only one coat is enough for opacity. Anne's finish is creme semi-matte; I personally am not a fan of matte or semi-matte finishes, so I apply a top coat for some shine! Of all the 3 shades, Anne was the hardest to photograph. In some of my photos, it came out as more of a cornflower-ish periwinkle, just try to imagine it with more violet/purple and less blue. I think the color is the most accurate on the photo taken with flash which is on lower right in my collage above.

Alicia

Julep describes Alicia as sunny salmon. I agree, it's salmon-y coral/peach in creme finish. Again just like Anne, it passes the one coat opacity test. Application was a breeze.

Pippa

Ok so I'm on a nude nail polish kick! Pippa is a camel/nude in creme finish. I just knew Pippa would be super close to one of my favorite nude nail polishes which is Essie's Topless & Barefoot. Yes, they are insanely similar. The only difference is application.

Let's do some math.

1 coat of Pippa = 3 coats of Topless & Barefoot

I personally hate having to do 3 or more coats of any nail polish because it takes forever to dry! Pippa is just a bit more nude than Topless & Barefoot whereas Topless & Barefoot has a tiny bit more pinkness to it. It's nothing a non-nailpolish addict would ever notice but I do :)

I have compared Pippa (L) to Topless & Barefoot (R) on the right photo. I have done 1 coat of Pippa and 3 coats of Topless & Barefoot. They are darn similar! Like I've mentioned above Anne is much more violet/purple in reality. It's just physically impossible to photograph the real color.

Julep, China Glaze, Essie, O.P.I.

Brush is a decent size and very user-friendly. It reminds me a bit of China Glaze brushes. It's just as long as CG and OPI brushes, not as thick as OPI but not as thin as CG. It's safe to say that Julep brushes are right in between. Not even mentioning Essie, I think you can see why!

Verdict!

It's ♥

These nail polishes are just amazing. Pigmentation is out of this world. Only one coat is needed for perfect opacity. Due to that fact, drying doesn't take forever. Naturally one coat dries faster, I'd say in 5 minutes they dry to perfection. I happen to be stuck with bare nails a lot of the times I'm in a hurry. There is no way I can paint my nails (at least 2 coats 99% of the time), have them dry in a timely manner and be on time! I will be absolutely enjoying slapping on a coat of Julep nail polishes when I'm in a hurry from now on! :) I'm so looking forward to trying many more shades!

You can get $15 off on your purchase of $30 or more with the code "GIRLFRIEND", which is what I did. Julep nail polishes retail for $14 for 2.7oz bottles.

Have you tried Julep nail polishes? Any favorites?

*Also check out my Apothica giftcard giveaway if you're interested! :)

Top 10 Beauty Products

2011-07-04T19:44:00.000-05:00

I was recently tagged by two lovely ladies; Danielle at Bloomin' Beauty and Yuliya, you may know her as Cutegingerbread :) My top 10 beauty products include those I enjoy using the most and see myself repurchasing for many years to come.

1. Clarisonic Mia
Best beauty investment I have made this year. It isn't cheap but it is something I will use for many years, so in the long run it's worth it. My skin has seriously benefited from using this amazing tool. My face is much clearer, much much less acne-prone, softer and looks healthier overall. Mia has also helped a lot with annoying blackheads!

2. Dior Amber Diamond
Amber Diamond is my HG highlighter, in case you didn't already know. I just love the glow it gives to my face without being shimmer overload. Read my review here.

3. Revlon Photo Ready
HG foundation, hands down. I always say this foundation was made with me in Revlon's mind. I love this stuff, it gives my face the perfect coverage, concealing my imperfections, and has a beautiful, matte "Photo-ready" airbrushed kind of finish. I think it's my 3rd bottle, now that says a lot!

4. Too Faced Natural Eye
My HG eye palette. I love all the colors, the consistency, the finishes. Read my review here.

5. Benefit Bella Bamba
I never thought Bella Bamba would get this much love from me one day but it does! It's the perfect shimmer baby pink/coral blush. Also does a bit of highlighting with its shimmer content, so I usually don't wear an additional highlighter when using it.

6. Illamasqua Lover
Lover is my all time favorite HG blush. This shade has my name all over it. I wear this blush year around because I cannot get enough of it. Pigmentation is amazing! Read my review here.

7. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil
Chocolate Soleil became my favorite bronzer in such a short time. It's the perfect bronzer color for my complexion, looks very natural. And an added bonus, it smells just like chocolate! Read my review here.

8. Shu Uemura Painting Liner in Black

HG gel liner. Stays put until I want it vanished. Perfect pitch black color, great pigmentation. The formula makes application a total breeze. Read my review here.

9. Urban Decay Primer Potion
This product is seriously heaven-sent. It's a must have in every eye make-up addict's collection.

10. L'oreal Voluminous
My favorite mascara of all time. I just cannot go wrong with it. My eye lashes are already long but I can't ever turn down a product that makes them longer, fulled and blacker...which is Voluminous :)

I'm not tagging anyone in particular because this tag has been around for a while, and probably those I'd tag have already done it! :) If you feel like doing this tag, go for it! I'd love to read everyone else's top 10 beauty products!

Wishing all my U.S. friends a very happy 4th of July, and thanking all those for defending our nation! ♥

Apothica Giftcard Giveaway! - Closed

2011-07-01T17:41:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone!

Today I am excited to present you a giveaway sponsored by Apothica! Apothica.com is an online cosmetics boutique that carries some of the finest selection of brands in cosmetics, skincare, haircare, fragrance and aromatherapy. Too Faced is one of the many premium brands that is available at Apothica. Since launching in 1998, Too Faced has gained quite the popularity for creating sophisticated products and packaging as well as naming some of their shades with great sense of humor. I believe Too Faced really takes it a step further and truly stands behind their philosophy "Why be pretty when you can be gorgeous?"! As most of you know, I am truly amazed by the quality of Too Faced products and enjoy using them as part of my daily routine. Some of my personal favorites, needless to say as I talk about them all the time, include Chocolate Soleil Bronzer and Natural Eye Palette.

One of my lucky readers will win a $25 Apothica gift card! What better way to check off an item from your wishlist that you've been wanting for a long time!

Rules:

You must be a public follower of my blog through Google Friend Connect.
There are 3 possible ways to enter but you're required to complete only one. Feel free to do more if you like!
Let me know about which option you've completed in your comment. If you've tweeted, leave me your twitter handle. If you've commented on Apothica's Facebook wall, please leave your Facebook username. For blog posts, don't forget include a link.
Make sure to include your name and your e-mail address.
This giveaway will end July 15, 2011 11:59 PM CST.
I will randomly pick the winner on random.org.
Winner will be announced on July 16, 2011.

Option 1: Facebook

1.Visit Apothica.com

2. Write on Apothica's Facebook wall about what you think of Apothica

Bonus: Opt in for Apothica's newsletter

Option 2: Twitter

1.Visit Apothica.com

2. Tweet about Apothica on your own Twitter account

Bonus: Retweet Apothica's tweet about this giveaway!

Option 3: Blog

1.Visit Apothica.com

2. Blog about what you think of Apothica

Bonus: Write about the brand I highlighted and link it to Apothica

Please note:

Apothica will contact the winner to verify the information is correct.
After verification, Apothica will email the winner a code for the gift card to be used at SkinCareRx.com, Apothica.com, and SkinBotanica.com
The contest is open internationally but Apothica does not ship to all countries. Cost of shipping for each country that Apothica ships to will be determined at checkout.
Please make sure to add SkincareRx to your address book in your email to avoid emails going to junk/spam folder.

Good luck to all!!! :)

Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by Apothica. I did not get compensated for conducting this giveaway.

June Favorites

2011-06-30T23:40:00.004-05:00

Happy almost July! Since today is the last day of June, I thought it'd only make sense for me to finally finish up my June favorites post and post it! So here are the products that got the most love from me in June!

Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in Honey Dipped

I'm absolutely in love with Honey Dipped. It's funny because I went from not knowing much about this company at all to falling in love with this amazing baked blush of theirs. I used it like insane since I received it in my Birchbox early this month. Read my review here.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Tipsy

Nothing new here, I'm sure many of you know that I've been attached to this little gorgeous gem for a while now. Tipsy is great for those humid days (which is typical for Chicago summers) because it lasts on my face all day! No need for touch ups yay! Read my review here.

Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15

I first read about this tinted moisturizer on Tiffany's amazing blog Will Work for Makeup :) I had been searching for Physician's Formula Healthy Wear SPF 50 Tinted Moisturizer everywhere. I have really enjoyed using last summer but I think it's hopeless. Do any of you know if it's been discontinued? So based on Tiffany's review on this Sonia Kashuk tinted moisturizer, I decided to give it a try. It retails for $12 so I wouldn't feel that bad if it did not work out for me. But it does! I have now been using it for couple weeks and I love it. It goes on super smooth and gives just the right amount of color and coverage.

Essie Sand Tropez

Sand Tropez is a greyish light taupe. Lately all I've been reaching for is Sand Tropez or the other two colors below. Since buying it earlier this month, I've been taking off and reapplying it like I'm on a mission to finish the whole bottle.

China Glaze Re-Fresh Mint

If I was on a deserted island, during summer, and if I was allowed to have only one nail polish with me this would be it. Yeah, that's how much I love it! It's my favorite mint of all the other mints I have!

Orly Rage

Rage is definitely one of my favorite nail polishes of all time! If you don't have this color, I definitely recommend it. I've had it for a very long time but every time I paint my nails with it, I am more excited than the last time I wore it. It's such a unique, foiled rose gold color.

Too Faced Eye Shadows in Honey Pot & Cocoa Puff

I've been wearing this combo quite a bit lately. For my daily looks, I used to use the more neutral shades like Heaven, Push-up and Erotica. I used to usually associate gold eye shadow with nighttime looks, so for the most part I stayed away from gold for day looks. I think Honey Pot is such a wearable gold for daytime. So I wear it a lot during the day, with Cocoa Puff on crease. Looks amazing on brown eyes :)

Korres Pomegranate Lip Butter

The sheer color of this Korres lip butter is just perfect for summer. Especially if you're out in the sun a lot during summer but don't want to leave your lips bare, this is a great product! It's weightless and very moisturizing. I wish it had SPF in it though.

Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Color in Pink Please

I talk about Pink Please all the time. This month hasn't been such a lipstick kind of month for me. When I don't know what to wear, I reach of Pink Please. It's the perfect shade of pink, that somehow goes with however I do the rest of my makeup.

MAC Iridescent Powder in Silver Dusk

Silver Dusk is a pale pinky beige multi-purpose iridescent powder with silver particles in it. I have been using it in conjunction with the Sonia Kashuk tinted moisturizer. I think the two go hand in hand together, creating a healthy, glowy look without packing on heavy products on my face! After applying the tinted moisturizer, I just do a quick and light sweep of Silver Dusk on cheekbones ;)

Do share the products you've been reaching for the most in June! :)

MAC Treats

2011-06-28T16:41:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, MAC very recently released a new collection called Bloggers' Obsessions. I thought it was amazing of MAC to recognize beauty bloggers and dedicate a whole collection just for them! I'm so happy that some of my favorite bloggers got to work with MAC to create some gorgeous colors! The only down side is that Bloggers' Obsessions is available only in North America.

While all colors in this collection are stunning, I tried to make my selection carefully as I am really trying to slow my spending down. I don't want to buy products just for the sake of buying and let them collect dust. If I love something, I will buy it. So with that said, I picked up Hocus Pocus. It's a beautiful dark brownish gray with gold shimmer and is in satin finish which is my favorite finish. I love using shades like Hocus Pocus, grays, dark browns even during the day so I know I'll be using it a lot!

I tried to think of other eye shadows that are at least in the same color family as Hocus Pocus so I dug deep in my collection and surprise surprise...I have absolutely nothing that even comes close to it! I initially thought perhaps a shade from Sleek Storm or one from the Naked palette but nope. This actually makes me happy :)

Since I was about to place a MAC order, I thought I'd also go ahead and check off a product that's been on my list for way too long. And that was the Sheen Supreme Lipstick in Gotta Dash! I've wanted this gorgeous lipstick since MAC has released them few months ago. It's a muted coral. Not a shocker, most people know I'm obsessed with this color :)

On my swatches above, photos taken with flash are on top and natural light ones are on bottom. I knew Gotta Dash! would be a dupe of something the instant I took it out of its packaging. I think it's so darn similar to MAC's Jazzed lipstick (on right). I have Ever Hip in the middle and when compared to Gotta Dash and Jazzed, it looks like a shade of pink! If you missed out on Jazzed, grab Gotta Dash!, nobody will be able to tell the difference believe me! :)

This is more of an initial reactions kind of post, I will make sure to do an FOTD using these products soon!

Did you get anything from Bloggers' Obsessions collection?

Finished Up / June

2011-06-27T04:14:00.002-05:00

So I haven't finished MAC Fix+ like I have planned last month (I did use it almost daily, it just doesn't want to leave me alone!) but I did manage to finish all of these other products, yay!

Tresemme 24 Hour Body Shampoo

I bought this huge bottle when I was looking for a new shampoo to try. Well, lesson learned. Note to self: Never buy this humongous of a container when you wash your hair twice a week and especially if you haven't used the product before. Of course I had no idea that I would end up despising it. Not gonna lie, I fell in the trap of Tresemme's marketing schemes. All the "talk" on their bottle along with the "professional formula" make the product seems like it's the best thing since sliced bread. I will not be repurchasing this shampoo as it really dried up my hair, stripped off natural oils and just left it looking and feeling dull after every wash. Me no likey.

L'oreal Eversleek Sulfate-free Reparative Smoothing Conditioner

I think this is a fantastic drugstore conditioner. It smells delicious, conditions hair and leaves it soft to touch. I have a lot of thick hair and I'm happy to find a product that leaves detangled and smooth! I would repurchase this conditioner. But I just started using the Organix Moroccan Argan oil conditioner because I was in the mood for something new :)

Redken Smooth Down Butter Treat

I've been using the Redken Butter Treat for about 6 years and I truly believe it's a great product. Although pricey for a hair treatment I use only when my hair needs a little pick-me-up, I cannot be without this product. Especially after the dullness I was forced to deal with while using the Tresemme shampoo I mentioned above, Redken butter treat immensely contributed to the revival of my hair. Needless to say I will repurchase.

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment

This was a small sample of this amazing oil treatment. I included it because it lasted me a really long time! All you need is a tiny bit on your palm for it to make an impact on your hair. I have used it both on wet hair and after I used heat tools on my hair. I love that it really smooths out the fly-aways and any frizz my hair has after styling. It has a great smell. I have found out about the Macadamia hair products last year and I've been hooked since then. I even wrote about them back when I first started blogging. Repurchase for sure!

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy

My bottle is missing the gold crest on the front as I picked it up from TjMaxx, hello discounted perfumes! I love Viva La Juicy's fruity scent. I can definitely pick up vanilla, sandalwood, amber in this perfume. I love that it lasts all day on my skin! I think it's great for both day and night, I just love versatile scents. I will definitely repurchase it again, it's a staple in my perfume collection.

Escada Incredible Me

I picked up Incredible Me at a duty free last year. I think it's more of a night perfume but I used it during the day anyway. I don't think it's as strong as say Calvin Klein Euphoria which is my favorite night time perfume! Incredible Me is sweet and is actually pretty close to Viva la Juicy in terms of notes. Also like Viva la Juicy, it lasts all day and night on my skin. I think it's based off on vanilla, then there is sandalwood, honeysuckle, orchid and I've read it also has clementine! I really did enjoy this perfume but I love to experiment when it comes to perfumes. So I'll venture out and try some different ones!

What products have you finished this month?

MAC Lovelorn

2011-06-25T23:12:00.000-05:00

Lovelorn is one of my many 'bought on a whim' purchases. It's kind of sad that I actually, for a couple of weeks, forgot that I even bought this lipstick. Only after recent a purse clean-out, I have remembered it! I guess that day I was just hungry for another pink lipstick, can anybody relate to that? After finding Lovelorn in my purse that day, I thought about returning it. Thanks to those whose swatches came up in my search that day, you definitely convinced me to keep this beaut :)

I learned to stay away from blue toned pink lipsticks the hard way. Oh I have lost count on how many I had to get rid off because I simply couldn't make them work with my skin tone. Lovelorn is a medium blue pink that seems to work with me though. I can finally and proudly say that I am able to wear a pink lipstick with blue undertones :D

I initially thought Lovelorn would be pretty close to the other famous pink MAC lipstick Angel. They are definitely in the same family, I'd say cousins. Lovelorn is a tad darker than Angel. I also think Angel's consistency is way creamier than Lovelorn's. It may be due to the fact that Angel is in Frost finish and Lovelorn is in Lustre finish. In my opinion they are both semi-opaque. I feel like Lovelorn is more of a summer color also, what do you think?

Photo on the left side has Angel on left but on swatches they are switched around, which makes Lovelorn on left and Angel on right.

If you're looking for an everyday, easy-to-wear pink lipstick, definitely check out Lovelorn. It looks like such a boring color (sorry Lovelorn lovers!) in the tube, but once applied it's love! No wonder I initially wanted to return it, I love it now that I wear it :)

What is your favorite summery pink lipstick?

Most Reached For Makeup Products

2011-06-23T23:22:00.002-05:00

Like most people, I also use many different products on a daily basis. But there are some that I just love and reach for a little more than others. Currently these products make up a good chunk of my daily routine. I do obviously rotate my blushes, lipsticks etc but I reach for the products below the most. Some items you will read about in this post have been my go-to products for a long time and there are some that have been recently discovered.

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural
I use it as my setting powder daily. I do occasionally wear it alone on days I just don't feel like slapping on too many products on my face. Love the matte look it provides.

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer
Chocolate Soleil quickly became my favorite bronzer. I use it everyday and am very happy with it! The color suits my complexion really well. Works great for contouring as well.

Illamasqua Blush in Lover
If you've been reading my blog for a while, then you know I can't stop mentioning Lover every chance I get. It's my favorite blush. If I am indecisive about what blush to wear, I will go with Lover.

Revlon Photo Ready
I have purchased a few different foundations after trying Photo Ready. But there is something about it that keeps me coming back to it. It works like magic on my skin. Looks amazing in photos, hence its name. Long lasting, nice matte finish.

MAC Studio Finish Concealer
Covers up all my imperfections perfectly. I love to use it especially on random spots that I want vanished.

Shu Uemura Painting Liner in Black
My everyday gel liner. Its a true pitch black color. Lasts all day. No budging or raccoon eyes involved. Applies like a dream.

Too Faced Natural Eye Palette
I use Natural Eye almost daily and usually go to it for neutral night looks as well. It's my favorite palette for many reasons but especially because no matter what colors I use, I end up loving the look. I can't say that about my other palettes, sorry Naked palette! Even when I don't feel like wearing so much eye makeup on a certain day, I do a quick sweep of Heaven to brighten up my eyes and I'm good to go!

Urban Decay Primer Potion
Makes even the most stubborn, prone to creasing eye shadows stick and stay put all day. For me, it's one of the best inventions in the cosmetics world!

Covergirl Lashblast Mascara
Love it just as much as L'oreal Voluminous because really they produce the exact same results on my lashes. Lashblast is just my go-to mascara right now. Hello long, volumized, fluttery lashes!

YSL Gloss Pur #2
I'm not much a lip gloss wearer at all but when I do wear lip gloss I go straight to this amazing baby pink YSL one that smells like mango. It looks beautiful when applied over nude or pink lipsticks which is what I wear the most.

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor in Pink Please

I have maaaany favorite lipsticks but Pink Please has a special place in my heart. It's such a versatile soft pink color that goes with pretty much any look. Very easily wearable during the day. It's super creamy and leaves lips shiny so no need for gloss. It's always in my make-up bag :)

What are some of your most reached for products?

Summer Blushes

2011-06-18T22:42:00.000-05:00

Today I'm sharing with you all some of my favorite blushes that I'm enjoying so far this summer :) I had a difficult time picking, so I picked 9 (I could easily add a few more!) There is no rule that you must wear brighter blushes during summer but they just put me in a really good mood! Just looking at them makes me appreciate this wonderful season! Sun is shining and birds are chirping! Can you tell I love summer? :)

L-R - Swatches

Barry M Apricot
Bright orange/tomato red-ish. Matte.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Tipsy
Peachy-coral. Matte. Review here.

Benefit Coralista
Light pinky/peach. Shimmery.

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in Stereo Rose
Light pink/coral. Shimmery.

L-R - Swatches

NARS Torrid
Coral. Shimmery.

NYC Blushable Creme Stick
Pink/coral. Shimmery. Review here.

Illamasqua Lover
Peach. Matte. Review here.

Milani Baked Blush in Rose D'oro
Warm terracotta/golden peach. Shimmery. Review here.

Benefit Bella Bamba
Light pink with golden sheen. Shimmery.

What are your go-to summer blushes?

Hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend! ♥

Things I ♥ Now

2011-06-15T20:02:00.003-05:00

I'm branching out today and writing about bits and pieces (as in not only makeup) of things that I have collected over the course of a month or so! Hope you enjoy it, I certainly enjoyed putting it together :)

I love...

Sheer Lipsticks

I've been going back and forth between this gorgeous trio but this next sentence describes my current situation pretty well. "A girl can never have too many sheer lipsticks" Do share your favorite sheer lipsticks!

Top to Bottom: Dior Diorissime, Dior Singuliere, Chanel Evasion

Glittery Nail Polishes

I try to avoid painting each and every nail with glittery polishes at all costs. Because if you have ever used a glitter nail polish then you know what a hassle it is to take them off! So I limit my glitter nail polish consumption to just one nail, usually the ring finger one. My favorite of the three is definitely my newest discovery; Sally Hansen Hard as Nails in Ice Queen. It was only $1.99 at Walgreens and looks amazing over a matte white polish as base. The other two are my oldies but goodies from OPI's Burlesque collection, Extra-va-vaganza! and Sparkle-icious.

Sally Hansen Ice Queen, OPI Extra-va-vaganza!, OPI Sparkle-icious

Bath & Body Works Coconut Mango

New season, new scent. My favorite spring scent was Carried Away. I still do show it love every now and then but for now Coconut Mango takes the cake! If you're like me and have a weakness for anything coconut-y then check this out. Both the body wash and lotion have a wonderful and sweet scent which leans a bit more toward coconut in my opinion. Since getting the lotion, I've become a devoted moisturize-er :)

Bath & Body Works Wallflowers

While visiting BBW last weekend, these $2 wallflowers and oils caught my eye. I've been using Glade for as long as I can remember but they just don't smell as strong or last as long as the wallflowers. So I have made the switch and will be purchasing these on a regular basis. I've got the light pink to match the lilac walls of my office :)

Michael Kors White/Rose Gold Chronograph Resin Bracelet Watch

This is my second Michael Kors watch, you can see my first one here. I can't get enough of MK watches. Without a doubt, they make some of the hottest watches around. I had been wanting a white watch and a rose gold watch so when I spotted this beauty on Nordstrom's website for 40% off (it's still on sale!) I thought why not get one that has a little bit of both? I'm absolutely in love with it, I don't even know where my other watch is :)

Dogeared Always Beautiful Moroccan Rose Gold Dipped Earrings

Groupon has become quite the enabler for me. Few weeks ago I've seen Dogeared Jewelry on Groupon and one click on their link I was in jewelry heaven! They sell some unique pieces and I'm happy that I bought the $25 for $50 Groupon. (Believe me it helped with the grand total!) They are a little on the pricier side but the quality of their work is clearly visible when you hold and wear their products. I love my Moroccan rose gold dipped earrings and wear them almost daily. Rose gold is just so versatile!

Payless Flats

I buy shoes from wherever as long as I love them. I haven't been to Payless for a long time. Recently I was at a strip mall and had to park far away from the store I intended to go to and guess which store happened to be right in front me? It was meant to be, I tell ya! To my surprise they had a BOGO 1/2 off sale! I instantly fell in love with these two pairs, so they came home with me. So happy my long search for nude flats is over, I've wanted a pair for so long!

What do you ♥ now?

Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in Honey Dipped

2011-06-14T23:04:00.000-05:00

I was one of the luckier people (or at least I'd like to think of myself as such) with June's Birchbox as I have received this beautiful product in it! I had desperately wanted a full size product, but boy was I glad to receive something full size and something I ended up really enjoying.

I have heard of Laura Geller cosmetics before but didn't own anything from this brand prior to receiving this blush. I will definitely be more of a regular now, I am very happy with my first product :)

Honey Dipped is one of the five baked Laura Geller blushes. The packaging is pretty simple; black compact with a window so you can actually see the product inside. There is a mirror inside which is convenient for when you're on the go. The product weighs .32oz/9g and retails for $29.50. On Laura Geller's website, the baked blushes come with a brush and cost a bit more.

Depending on your skin tone on shimmer preference, this product can definitely be categorized as a multi-purpose product. Due to the amount of bronze it has, it could be used as a bronzer. However, it is shimmery so some may not like it as a bronzer but rather use it as a blush. I use it as a blush because I prefer my bronzers matte or with minimal shimmer. Sadly the beautiful veining is an over spray but that doesn't make me love it any less.

My swatch on left is a bit heavy as I wanted the color to completey show, I blended out the swatch on the right. Pigmentation is amazing! It gives my face that healthy glow that I usually get after prolonged sun exposure on a sunny vaca spot! I think Honey Dipped is definitely comparable to MAC Mineralize Skin Finishes in texture. Just like MSFs, it also gets a bit powdery when swirling the brush in it. Surprisingly once applied, it stays put. Since receiving this blush, I've been wearing it almost daily and so far didn't feel the need to touch up once during the day. I'm happy that it lasts all day, I am always on the hunt for long-lasting cosmetics products for hot and humid summer days.

I took a closeup just in case, I personally think you can see the product better on the photo on the left. I like that the shimmer is not overwhelming thus making it easier to wear it during the day :)

Are you familiar with Laura Geller or these Blush-N-Brighten blushes?

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine 48 Évasion

2011-06-13T21:49:00.000-05:00

My affair with Évasion started a while back when I first spotted it in a Youtube video. Unfortunately I would have to wait until April 6,2011 to make it mine. When April 6 rolled around, I rushed to the nearest Chanel counter and ta da! Why has it taken me 2 months to blog about it...honestly I don't know!

Évasion is already one of my go-to lipsticks now that the weather is warmer. I just prefer to wear lighter textures on my face in summer so I don't feel like my make-up is melting off of my face throughout the day. I'm glad to have added this perfect little summer lipstick to my collection :)

If you are not fond of sheer lipsticks and finishes then I don't recommend the Rouge Coco Shines for you. However, for a being a sheer product Evasion has a decent amount of pigmentation. I would describe this shade as light coral with a hint of light pink. It applies very smoothly and has a creamy texture. I love the weightless feeling of this lipstick on my lips. I truly believe sheer lipsticks are great for hot and humid summer days! Compared with Dior Addict lipsticks, I would say Coco Shines leave lips shinier. I also think Coco Shines last a bit longer on lips than Addicts. Do I even need to say anything about the gorgeous gold and black packaging? Ahhhh...

There are two things I am not crazy about; one being its grandma lipstick scent (I love my grandma and most of her lipsticks just smell like this) and the other being its bitter-ish taste. It's not an overpowering scent by any means, it just smells a bit old. They are not a huge deal because I do love the color, but I wanted to point it out as I know there are people out there who just cannot stand the scent I described above. I will definitely be checking out more shades from the Rouge Coco Shine collection, Boy seems gorgeous! :) These lipsticks retail for $32 a pop at various department stores in addition to Chanel's website.

I promise I'm not talking on the phone with my lipstick, I just didn't know what to do with my hand :))

Sheer lipsticks...yay or nay? Do you own this lipstick or any other shades from Rouge Coco Shine?

What's in my new makeup bag?

2011-06-09T23:51:00.000-05:00

My ex-makeup bag was getting a little too old so I retired it. I always wanted to get something - anything from Vera Bradley! Last Saturday I went to the outlets with couple of my friends and was stoked to see a Vera Bradley outlet there! If you love floral anything like me, then this is your store! It was such a tough choice as they have hundreds of different colors/patterns. I decided to go with the the design called "Mediterranean Blue" because it's just adorable - I love all the colors in it, they remind me of the Mediterranean sea and summer :)

Apart from the pattern and colors, I also love that this little makeup bag is lined so in case of spillage you won't have to worry that your bag is ruined! Its size is also a plus, especially compared to my old makeup bag, this feels like it can take in my entire makeup collection :) I wasn't even able to completely zip up my old one, ok well I am partly to blame for it as I take a bit too much along.

What do I have in my new bag?

Okay maybe I could do without carrying two compacts, but the Dior compact is just too luxurious to leave at home :D Bella Bamba must come with me in case I need touch ups during the day, no it's not always Bella Bamba but lately I've been loving it a lot. Another product I must bring along is my concealer. Spots do appear on my face randomly and I hate to be caught off-guard. Spots aren't end of the world but I like to cover them up if I can! I could do without the body butter as well but I'm attached to this scent and use it on my hands. I also keep hair clip/elastic in all of my purses in addition to my make-up bag because I honestly never know when I may need one. I hate when I am in a situation where I need an elastic and my only option is a rubber band ouch!

What are your make-up bag must-haves?

Birchbox / June

2011-06-07T19:45:00.004-05:00

I was so surprised when my hubby came upstairs with a box in his hand earlier today saying "honey you got this box....bir...I don't know it's pink" hahah I thought, could it possibly be...Birchbox?!?!? I was kind of shocked as I received a shipment notification email just today telling me I should expect my box on or by June 13. Wow, Birchbox you have impressed me quite a bit today! ;)

Here is what's in my box for June (and I am quite happy about them this time, unlike May's!)

Needless to say the highlight of this month's box is the gorgeous, full size Laura Geller blush/bronzer/highlighter in Honey Dipped. I'm happy that I received a full size product this month because I was kind of let down by not getting any last month. Not only is it full size, but it's absolutely stunning and perfect for summer! I'm also really excited about the Pangea Facial Toner as I am currently looking for a new toner, so it's a perfect opportunity to try this out to see how I'll like it. I have tried Pangea before, I love that they make healthier products that don't contain parabens. I've never heard of Amika, but I love trying new hair products so that's great! Twirl by Kate Spade smells amazing!

The samples I'm least excited about are the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads and Pangea Balancing Oil...meh. Towelettes and tanning just don't go together in my book. I'm sure there are people that this works for, but I feel like it'd leave me totally streaky. Pangea Balancing oil is too small to know whether it works or not, that's the reason I am not totally excited about it. Then again it's just the bonus sample ;)

Overall, I am happy about my samples this month. I hope everyone that's subscribed to Birchbox enjoys their box this month :)

If you're subscribed to Birchbox what did you receive this month? If not, do any of these products appeal to you or have you tried them before?

May Favorites

2011-06-01T19:46:00.001-05:00

....aaaand it's that time of the month again, favorites time! Happy June!! May has been a nail polish kind of month for me. I used to change my nail polish every other day but I haven't been able to keep up with it as I'd like this year! Painting nails looks like an easy job but if you think of it, everything combined, it is time-consuming. This month, I went back to my old self and have been loving up these polishes :)

L-R: Essie Brazilliant, China Glaze Flip Flop Fantasy, Sephora by O.P.I Go With the Flow-er

If I could pick just one nail polish of the three, I would definitely have to choose China Glaze Flip Flop Fantasy! I am just obsessed with the almost blindingly bright pink neon color of this nail polish, in fact I can't stop looking at my hands, they are just so out there and I love it :) Go With the Flow-er is also a gorgeous color, it is shimmery and I get a lot of compliments wearing it. It also stains nails big time, even more than Braziliant!

Apart from nail polishes...

MAC Phloof!

I've been really into using Phloof! on the inner corners of my eyes, it looks good even if the rest of my eyelids are bare. It really opens up eyes and makes them look pretty :)

Benefit Bella Bamba

There is just something about this blush that keeps me coming back! It looks so gorgeous on and gives a nice little sheen on cheeks along with a pretty pink color. It's been my go-to blush in May, love the youthful look it provides and its scent is just yummy.

Dior Addict Lipstick in Singuliere

If you've seen my Singuliere post, then you'd have already figured out this stunner would be in my May favorites. It really deserves to be in all of my monthly favorites posts! :D

The Body Shop Coconut Body Butter

I love coconut anything and there is no exception when it comes to body products either. I used to be a die hard TBS body butter fan many years ago. Then we parted ways and I haven't used one of these for many years, I mean like 5 years. The Sephora & TBS coalition is what made me give these body butters another chance. The coconut one in particular is just as amazing as ever. I love the scent, and how the butter just melts into my skin. Its soft texture makes skin velvety and soft, it's love...again!

LaVanila The Healthy Deodorant in Vanilla Coconut

Okay so maybe this isn't really a beauty product but I did purchase this at Sephora, the beauty authority, so here it is in my post :) I am happy to announce my quest for finding a healthy deodorant is officially over. I have tried countless healthy deodorants, including most sold at WholeFoods. I've heard of the LaVanila brand before but never tried any of their products. What captured my attention about their deodorants was the fact that they are really healthy! They are made of all natural ingredients and are free of harsh chemicals such as petrochemicals, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oils, silicone, synthetic dyes, sulfates or parabens. These deodorants are a pricier than your regular drugstore deodorants at $18/stick but they don't contain crazy chemicals or ingredients like aluminum (sounds freaky!) Vanilla Coconut scent definitely has my name written on it!

Sun Laboratories Dark Tanning Lotion
This is my first self-tanning lotion ever. It took me a good while to have the courage to put this on myself, seriously. I was so afraid of turning orange or some weird color! Well, thankfully with this amazing lotion there is absolutely nothing to worry about! It has a rich brown (and scary) color and you do have to be quick with it so you spare yourself some unwanted spots! I'm sure that's the case with most, if not all, self-tanners. The key is to be quick. Once dried, I get a beautiful, healthy and very natural looking tan. The thing with self-tanners is that you need to be consistent with application to keep your tan. Well, I'll take self-tanners over tanning beds any day! I love that Sun labs uses no parabens in their products! FYI: I have spotted these tanning lotions many times at TjMaxx and it's where I got my bottle for about $16 ;)

What have you guys been loving in May?

Finished Up / May

2011-05-31T10:57:00.000-05:00

I will be doing these posts from now on simply to keep track of which products I used. By doing so I will know what worked, what I wouldn't buy again etc. If you always use the same brands/products then you have an idea of what you like or dislike. I use many different products and sometimes just don't remember what they did for me, so I decided to document! I also think this is a great way to be proud of yourself because you actually finished a product, or 4 in my case! Plus I love reading other bloggers' finished products posts :)

Ok, on to the empty containers...

C.O. Bigelow Lemon Cream Body Wash

First of all, I must say that if you love the lemon scent you have to try this! Its scent was the main reason I ever purchased this product. Lemon scent used to always remind me of kitchen/household cleaning products but since using this as my body wash, I am getting used to the idea lemony stuff can also be body products :) Will I repurchase this? Well, I think it's a great product. Smells amazing, leaves my skin super soft. It is soap-free. However the price is bit of an issue here. I just feel kind of uncomfortable paying $16 for a body wash. (I bought this particular container with a coupon, and as you can see I used it to the last squeeze :)) I also do use the Lemon body lotion from the same line, yummy is all I have to say!

Sonia Kashuk Remove Eye Make-up Remover

The best eye make-up remover I have used to date. Period. It's everything an eye make-up remover should be. It's oil-free, as in, it is oil-free unlike the many other drugstore eye make-up removers that claim to be oil-free but are oily as heck and leave a nasty oily residue. It's also not irritating at all. I just love it. Will I repurchase? I already did! ;)

Kiehl's Açai Damage-Protecting Toning Mist

I bought this toner a while back when I was looking for a new toner to try. I have always heard really good things about Kiehl's so I chose this. It's a toner. That's really all to it. Will I repurchase? I'm on the fence. It is $26 for 6.0 oz. container. Not too long ago, I have switched all my facial skincare products to Origins and I think my skin has benefited a lot from this decision. I will most likely purchase an Origins toner.

Origins A Perfect World SPF 25 Moisturizer

A Perfect World is a great moisturizer. It is paraben-free which I love. However I have found another great Origins moisturizers which I am even happier with so I will stick with that. :)

It was quite obvious that I wouldn't be finishing up any make-up products this month. I have a few eye-shadows, bronzers that I have hit pan on this month but they're nowhere close to being done with anytime soon. For next month, my goal is to use up MAC Fix+ so I can finally back-to-MAC it!

Which products did you use up this month?

Dior Addict Lipstick - 465 - Singulière

2011-05-27T20:47:00.001-05:00

I blame Twitter for all my recent make-up buys. I have been absolutely in love with this amazing and stunning Dior lipstick thanks to the lovely Tina at All The Vanity! If she hadn't recently tweeted about her favorite Dior Addict lipstick shades the other day, I would have probably not thought about checking out Dior for lipsticks anytime soon as MAC is my first resort for lipsticks for some reason.

Let me start off by saying that this was a really touch choice! Dior currently has 50+ shades in their Addict lipstick collection. Of the 50+ possible colors, I'd say 75% are shades that I would love to own and that I'd actually wear! I chose Singuliere because I love me some pink lipstick. I feel like I usually buy corals, nudes and not enough pinks. When I swatched Singuliere I knew I had to have it and I'm soooo happy with my choice!

Needless to say the packaging is to absolutely die for! I don't think I will have the courage to throw away the empty container after I'm done with it, hoarder much? Yes! The box is silver cardboard, the container itself is clear, holographic plastic that looks gorgeous when moved around. It's definitely not your regular lipstick container as you have to pull out the actual lipstick portion where as with say a MAC lipstick you would just need to twist off the cap. It feels so luxurious in hands, and it is hence the $28 price tag.

Singuliere is a bright bubblegum pink and it looks brighter in the container. It is a sheer lipstick but can definitely be built up to the desired intensity. For being a sheer lipstick, I think it has good pigmentation. Super creamy consistency makes application a breeze. There is absolutely not shimmer or glitter in this lipstick. I think a bit of a prep may be necessary if you have dry lips as the creamy formula may get stuck in dry spots on lips. Nothing a little lip scrub can't fix. Because it has 25% less wax than regular lipsticks, it results in spectacular high shine, plumped lips without the need of lip gloss. There is also no stickiness involved though there is shine, a lot of it. The shine doesn't last as long as the color itself, I would say about an hour or so. The color, considering you don't eat or drink, lasts a bit longer. 465 is a great everyday shade for girly pink lips!

I think Dior chose the perfect name for these lipsticks....Addict! I am totally an addict after my first lipstick from this line. I cannot wait to get more colors, next one being Diorissime - divine!

What do you think of Dior Addict Lipsticks?

How Much Is Your Face Worth?

2011-05-23T19:06:00.000-05:00

I have just seen this tag on some beauty blogs and thought it was a great way to have the much-needed reality check! Needless to say, as make-up addicts, we spend a ridicilous amount of money on beauty products. I realize some of it is actual necessity, for instance, if you use a mascara daily you will need a new tube within couple months tops. But majority of the rest is really for "collection" purposes. I know exactly how it goes, there is just something gorgeous about beautifully arranged, color coordinated blushes and eye shadows and of course we cannot forget lipsticks...! Just the thought of my make-up collection and all those stunning shades make me want to go splurge right now!

Though I know approximately how much each of my daily products retail for, I have never actually sat down and calculated. Here is the moment of truth...

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation $6.50
I'm currently using Fit Me as it's warmer and thankfully my skin has been amazing lately that I don't even need a full coverage foundation. I save some $ in the foundation department, yay!

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural $27
I do like to set my foundation regardless of its coverage, MAC MSFN does a great job for me!

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer $28
I go back and forth between Chocolate Soleil and Hoola so I actually use them both and will hopefully hit pan on Hoola soon! They are both $28 and I just cannot set a foot out the door without bronzer on.

Dior Amber Diamond $44
So maybe I didn't really need a $44 Dior highlighter but it's sooo gorgeous! I do use it everyday, a little more for night makeup, I still think it was a good investment :)

Benefit Bella Bamba Blush $28
Bella Bamba is one of the blushes I'm using the most at the moment, actually I've used it everyday the past week. I do rotate between Bella Bamba, MAC, NARS, Illamasqua blushes. Price-wise MAC blushes would be the cheapest but I've been using them the least.

MAC Studio Finish Concealer $16.50
Though I don't totally always need it, from time to time I still like to dab a little concealer on acne scars etc.

Urban Decay Primer Potion $19
Needless to say, it's a must-have. I don't know many make-up people who can live without some kind of an eye-shadow base.

Covergirl Lashblast Mascara $8
I'm also saving a couple bucks in the mascara department. I'm very happy with Lashblast, don't really need to spend $20+ on a mascara for the same results.

Shu Uemura Painting Liner $25
$25 is a bit too pricey for a gel liner but I'm very happy with its lasting power and I'd totally repurchase it.

MAC Lipstick $14.50
I don't use a MAC lipstick everyday but majority of the time they are what I reach for.
For the quality you get, $14.50 isn't that bad in my opinion. Even some drugstore lipsticks these days can cost $10+!

MAC Eyeshadows x 3 $33
I do use MAC eyeshadows almost everyday, 3 to be exact. 1. an all over color 2. crease color 3. blending color. I save a few dollars by buying them in pans, they have amazing quality and I don't really feel bad paying $11 for each.

Total = $249.50 *GASP*

Perhaps, it's the perfect time to start P10P? :)

Do you know how much YOUR face is worth? :)

Birchbox / May

2011-05-21T16:25:00.003-05:00

Few weeks ago, due to the overwhelming hype, I decided to jump on the Birchbox bandwagon and signed myself up! I think the whole idea of these boxes is just too exciting! Who doesn't want to get random samples of cosmetics goods every month at a reasonable cost of $10? I totally do! Until my box was on its way to me, I was super excited. Receiving my box took me a while, the long wait was actually pretty ridicilous. I mean it is shipped out from New Jersey and I live in Chicago, I just don't understand how it can take more than 7 business days? I got over that pretty quickly after watching a couple of May Birchbox videos on YouTube and was totally stoked that there's a full size Stila eye shadow! Naturally I thought this makes up for the shipping fiasco, which would had I actually received a Stila eye shadow...

Packaging...The pink box you see on the left is how the package was actually shipped out for the month of May. It's ok, it's just a box but I like that it's pink! The box that holds the contents is neatly packaged, with a ribbon, tissue paper and all. I think they're a nice touch and they hold everything together.

The box contains a contents card that describes each product and has the full-size product prices.

Contents

Obviously for $10, I can't and shouldn't expect the moon and stars but I thought it was kind of unfair for some of us to not get the Stila eye shadow most other people got. Shouldn't we all get at least similar products? Of the products I received, I really like the Pomegranate soap as I love pomegranate scented anything. Jouer luminizing moisture tint samples are also something I may enjoy. They have included two different shades; Pearl and Golden. I am also looking forward to the Ahava mud mask simply because I love masks. The rest...meh. The Jouer lip gloss in Glisten has way too much glitter for my liking. I would never pay $20 for a glitter-overload lip gloss. Kerastase shampoo is a little too small for my long and thick hair to be able to tell whether it will actually work. I will more than likely use it up in a single shower session. It is also $35 which is way too much for me for a shampoo. There is also a blank card which I will eventually use but I would have liked to get more of a beauty-related product instead.

Not gonna lie, I am kinda bummed about the May Birchbox. I will wait to get the June edition to make my final decision whether to keep my subscription or let it go.

Those of you that are subscribed, what do you think about your May Birchbox? If you're not subscribed, are you planning to?

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush - Tipsy

2011-05-19T23:28:00.001-05:00

I had been having the hardest time deciding on a color from Tarte's ~~not so~~ new Amazonian clay blush line. Obviously Tipsy is right up my alley, I am known to have an obsession with this color family. However, I did want to branch out and get a shade which I normally don't. I mean how many peachy blushes does one need? Basically it came down to Tipsy and Blushing Bride, a beautiful plum. I gave in and chose the peach once again! Tipsy seemed to be a bit more versatile and appropriate for summer! I can always go back and get Blushing Bride for fall! :D

Tipsy is a stunning matte peachy-coral and is packed with pigmentation. I have swatched all the colors in this collection at Sephora and they are all equally pigmented. Just like with any pigmented blush I think it applies the best with a stippling brush that way there is just the right amount of color with the right intensity. In other words, it's a "a-little-goes-a-long-way" kind of product. Now, Tarte claims these Amazonian clay blushes last 12 hours. Does it live up to the claim? YES! I can't lie, even some of my most loved blushes do not last all day, I love them mostly only because of their pretty colors. This blush on the other hand lasts all day therefore doesn't require touch-ups. I don't know about you but my make-up bag is full as it is, there is just no room for another blush compact AND a brush.

Here's a look at the packaging; It comes neatly packaged in a plastic box.
The compact is fun and girly. I like that the compact's color and blush color are coordinated. It's not a bulky compact and comes with a mirror so it makes a good take-along product.

Other things to note:

This product is cruelty-free.

It is formulated without; mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate and synthetic fragrance.

L- Blended R- Heavily Swatched

Illamasqua Lover (L) Tarte Tipsy (R)

Tarte's Amazonian clay blushes retail for $25/5.6oz. They used to be Sephora-exclusive up until a week or so ago however these days they are conveniently available on Tarte's website and Ulta as well. I purchased mine on their website using the code LUCKYBREAKS1 (30% off) to save a couple of bucks :)

Verdict?

I love Tipsy. It's totally my kind of blush but I'd be lying if I said I am not occasionally daydreaming about Blushing Bride. I may slowly collect all the colors in this collection, they are so charming and pretty to look at! I think they are seriously of amazing quality, formulated without many of the harsh chemicals and the lasting power is just unbeatable!

What do you think about Tarte's Amazonian clay blushes?

Braziliant and Co.

2011-05-16T23:54:00.001-05:00

I visited Walgreens just this past weekend and though I wasn't planning to purchase nail polish I couldn't resist any of these colors! I don't blog about every single nail polish I purchase, but rather those that stand out to me. Since I didn't already own any shades similar to these three, they needed to be on the spotlight! While at the store excitedly tweeting about these beauties Danielle at Bloomin' Beauty was such a sweetheart to twitpic her swatches of Revlon's Blue Lagoon, made it so much easier to decide :) I think Blue Lagoon is exactly what was missing from my Spring Nail Polish Picks post! Revlon's Modern Grace came out of nowhere, I'm just a sucker for purple and its hundreds of shades of it!

Braziliant is one of six colors in Essie's new summer 2011 collection. I can definitely see this color on maaaaany hands (and even toes, why not!) this summer! For me it is definitely that nail polish I see another girl wear and when I ask her what it is she doesn't know the name or brand of it. Then I hopelessly search for that color and epically fail finding it. Actually just today I asked someone about her bright orange nail polish and she gave me the exact answer "oh I have no idea". lol

Braziliant is a hot orange with pink shimmer which is only visible in the bottle, if you look carefully in the lower right photo above you can sort of see it. It is an opaque polish as only one coat completely covers the nail, aka no white tips. Jessica over at Getting Cheeky has warned me that it stains nails and skin so a base coat is a must. I didn't take the chance as I didn't want to suffer from orange-stained skin/nails so I applied a base coat. I didn't photograph this but after applying the first coat of on top of the base coat, little bubbles on my nails began forming. After the second coat they were camouflaged. I thought that was bizarre since I've never seen anything like that before! Apparently Braziliant doesn't like my Sally Hansen base coat too much!

In summary, it's safe to say I'm already obsessed with this color! Even if the weather has been a bit of a mess here in Chicago (let's just say 50 degrees is a good day!) a glimpse of this bright color on my nails helps me be patient for the warm weather and puts a smile on my face :)

Did you get any colors from Essie's summer 2011 collection or any new nail polishes recently?

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil

2011-05-13T20:59:00.001-05:00

During a makeup chat on Twitter, the lovely Holly at ellamarie84.blogspot.com has mentioned that Too Faced's Chocolate Soleil is her favorite bronzer ever! I have not even heard of this product until she told me about it and I thought eh it's probably just another bronzer. That was until I saw her next tweet saying it smells just like chocolate! I don't know about you but chocolate is definitely one of my many weaknesses in this life! So I knew this chocolate bronzer was eventually going to be mine!

Just like all Too Faced products, this bronzer also comes in cute packaging. The light pink box and the Hershey kiss-looking chocolate picture right on top are just adorable! The bronzer weighs .35oz/10g and retails for $28.

Yes, it's true. This bronzer really does contain cocoa and smells just like a good ol' bar of chocolate! I give it a whiff every now and then yummm...

The texture of the bronzer is velvety smooth. This is a matte bronzer and I'd describe the color as a light chocolate brown. It doesn't look muddy or orange on skin at all. I like its rich yet natural finish on my face. I've been using bronzers for just contouring these days and I think Chocolate Soleil does a fantastic job contouring as it's matte. If your nose is sensitive to smells don't worry because the chocolate scent isn't overwhelming and once applied the scent goes away.

Not like you can tell, but I am wearing my Chocolate Soleil bronzer in above photo :D

L- Chocolate Soleil R- Benefit Hoola

I thought I'd do a comparison of Chocolate Soleil to the famous Benefit Hoola as I know a lot of people own it. When I first opened Chocolate Soleil, I immediately thought wow this looks a lot like Hoola! As you can see from my swatches they are quite similar. Hoola looks just a tad more lighter and has an orange tint to it. Chocolate Soleil is a bit more pigmented. Hoola also retails for $28 but weighs .40oz/11.0g and comes in a cardboard box while Chocolate Soleil is in a compact with a mirror.

This sort of turned into a Chocolate Soleil vs. Hoola post so I'll finish it off by announcing the winner.

*drum roll*

Chocolate Soleil!!! Why? Because for $28 I get an actual compact of a beautiful, matte bronzer that leaves my face looking like it was naturally tanned. Its darker tone makes a difference on my face and helps me look more tanned than Hoola. I can actually take it along with me and use its mirror for touch ups during the day. It does seem to last longer than Hoola throughout the day. Lastly it smells like chocolate and I love that. It's like having a chocolate without all the calories! :D Hoola isn't a bad bronzer by any means but it shows up lighter on my complexion when compared to how Chocolate Soleil wears. It doesn't have as long of a staying power as Chocolate Soleil. I don't like the box packaging, I cannot take it with me because it is bulky and it doesn't have a mirror.

Have you tried Chocolate Soleil? What is your favorite powder bronzer?

Pink Blush Picks!

2011-05-09T19:15:00.000-05:00

While going through my previously published posts, I noticed that I have never done a favorite pink blushes post. Shocker I know. If you've been following my blog for a while, then you'd know that I have a slight obsession with peach, coral, orange blushes. Nonetheless, I still love my pink blushes so I decided put a post together sharing my favorites with you.

In my experience, I have found that pink blushes pair beautifully with any shade of purple eye make-up which I absolutely adore. Purple is one color that suits any eye color, if you haven't tried it then you should. It doesn't have to be bright purple, can be lilac, lavender, etc. I think pink blushes also work well with dark, grey, black smoky looks with light pink lips.

♥

Benefit Bella Bamba

MAC Bite of an Apple

Sleek Pixie Pink

MAC Dollymix

NARS Deep Throat

With Flash L-R: Benefit Bella Bamba, MAC Bite of an Apple, Sleek Pixie Pink, MAC Dollymix, NARS Deep Throat

Benefit Bella Bamba

It's the newest pink blush in my collection. When Bella Bamba first came out several months ago, I hesitated buying it because I honestly didn't think anything of it. Then I gave in and I'm glad I did. It succeeded to be one of my top pink blushes. It is a watermelon-pink with quite a bit of shimmer. While using Bella Bamba, I try to keep eyes a bit more subtle due to the shimmer content so I don't look like a disco ball.

MAC Bite of an Apple

Bite of an Apple was a limited edition blush which was part of the Venomous Villians collection that came out in 2010. It's a bright coral-y pink and has a matte finish. Bite of an Apple will last forever as all you need to do in order to get a perfect color on cheeks is to really lightly touch your brush in pan. I think using a stippling brush works really well with Bite of an Apple because it picks up only bit of a product. Too dense of a brush will result in an overly done blush. It goes on opaque and is buildable. If applied lightly it can definitely be an everyday blush.

Sleek Pixie Pink

Pixie Pink is a bright bubblegum pink and is super pigmented. It is also quite opaque and has a matte finish. It looks beautiful when I pair it with MAC's Nocturnelle, Digit, Shale - all shades of purple. I think it also compliments dark blue/green looks.

MAC Dollymix

MAC describes Dollymix as "pure candy pink". It's in Sheertone Shimmer finish. I think its description sounds like it'd not be an everyday kind of blush but I think it totally is due to its sheerness. I wear it during the day quite a bit. I think it's also essential for days you're in a hurry but want a pop of color.

NARS Deep Throat

I added Deep Throat to my list because even though NARS describes this blush as "peach with shimmer" once applied, it looks pink on me :) Even in pan, I see a light pink blush maybe with a hint of peach in it. It has a generous amount of shimmer but I don't think it's anything overwhelming. Deep Throat is a very versatile color that goes with pretty much any look. Like Dollymix, it's one of my go-to blushes when I'm in a hurry but don't want to leave the house without some color.

Natural Light

What are your favorite pink blushes? Which pink blush should I get next?

Ever Hip

2011-05-07T20:07:00.002-05:00

Ever Hip is finally in my possession! I was kind of sad that I chose Blooming Lovely (I don't know what I was thinking at the time I picked it up since it'd never work with my complexion) over Ever Hip at the Liberty of London preview last year. I will pin the blame on the cocktails that were served at the launch.

Then I got the good news!

When I found out Ever Hip was being re-promoted with one of MAC's new collections Fashion Flower, I was stoked! Thanks to the lovely Danielle at Bloomin' Beauty for giving us a heads up on Twitter that it's available. Otherwise, I would have totally missed it again! Wish MAC would just make it easy for everyone and add it to the permanent line! :) FYI: Recent MAC collections aren't really doing much for me (and based on what I read on my friends' blogs I am not alone in this!) I didn't even bother with other products in this collection.

Thanks to Google I have seen Ever Hip and its swatches million times before, but in person it's even more stunning.

With Flash

Ever Hip is a gorgeous "bright creamy coral" as described by MAC. Besides having my name written all over it, Ever Hip screams spring/summer. I am guessing I will be half way done with it before summer ends. :D It's in Cremesheen finish which is my favorite finish when it comes to MAC lipsticks. I love lipsticks in this finish because A. they're creamy therefore they go on super smooth B. they don't cause feathering or make you wish you scrubbed your lips beforehand C. they leave lips looking glossy. So no need for lip glosses! D. they seem to last longer on my lips than other lipstick finishes. Do I need any more reasons to love it?

I ♥ Ever Hip! :)

MAC Jazzed, MAC Ever Hip, MAC Vegas Volt

Here is a comparison of all my MAC lipsticks that I have in this color family. Jazzed and Ever Hip are definitely sisters, Jazzed has more orange and Ever Hip has a bit more pink in it. Vegas Volt is darker than both, can even be considered a shade of red when seen swatched next to these two.

What do you think of Ever Hip? Have you purchased anything from the Fashion Flower collection?

April Favorites

2011-04-30T18:09:00.000-05:00

April has been the month of eye shadows for me! I don't remember wearing so much eye shadow this often in a really long time. This month, however, has been all about them! I actually like that. Because now I can, without any discomfort, say that (especially to those who insist on saying that I have soooo much make-up making me feel like I don't use 75% of it) I use what I own! :)

Besides eye shadows, I also religiously used my Milani baked blush in Rose D'oro. I have been absolutely in love with this blush since the day I bought it, it was even in my March favorites! I have wanted MAC's Bite of an Apple blush really bad, but haven't really been using it a whole lot. Well, this month things have changed. It's been my go to pink blush. Don't let its brightness fool you, it makes for a very pretty and light pink blush if applied carefully with a light hand. Urban Decay's Primer Potion in its brand new and improved packaging also made the list, really only because of the packaging! It's just so much more easier to use, there isn't any wasted product and is much more sanitary! Stila's Kajal eyeliners are pretty cool in my book. Topaz, an apricot shade, makes a great liner for the waterline. I am not really one to line my waterline with white eyeliner as it makes my eyes look weird. I have been using Topaz as an alternative and I think it does a fantastic job! I keep mentioning my new favorite lipstick everrr Chanel Coco Rouge Shine #48 quite a bit because it's amazing. It is not an opaque, full coverage lipstick at all, nor is it marketed to be. It's rather on the sheerer side, provides subtle shine and #48 is a super pretty coral shade which is perfect for spring.

Stila Kajal Eyeliner in Topaz

MAC Digit, Nocturnelle, Prussian, Plumage

MAC All That Glitters, Trax, Chanel Coco Rouge Shine #48

For evening looks (which I've done quite a bit this month) I opted for the top row of eye shadows on my swatches. The combination of purples and blues create great nighttime looks for any eye color in my opinion. I usually sweep Digit all over lid, mixture of Prussian and Plumage on crease and Nocturnelle to blend. For day time, I've been loving All That Glitters with a little Trax on crease.

What are some of your April favorites?

Inglot Treats

2011-04-28T20:46:00.005-05:00

About 2 months ago I had the random urge to check out Inglot's website...and what do I see?? That they finally have an online store (for U.S. and Australia as of right now)! I was stoked! So I immediately placed an order, without even thinking twice.

I already knew I was going to get eye shadow happy and so I did. I ended up with six eye shadows and a lip paint. The extensive eye shadow selection, while amazing, is a bit overwhelming.

Let me start by saying that I love their palettes! The semi-transparent and totally removable lid has a sophisticated look to it. Palettes come already magnetized and let me tell you that these magnets are darn strong! I am afraid I will not be able to remove the pans until I run out of these eye shadows. There are a number of palette choices in the Freedom System. I think there is a palette for every product; pressed powders, blushes, 2,3,5,10,20 eye shadow palettes as well as 5,10 for round pans.

L-R

Pearl 409

Pearl 420

Pearl 449

D.S. 467

Pearl 439

If you are planning to place an order on Inglot's online shop, then keep in mind that they are using a letter/number system rather than naming their products like most of the other cosmetics companies do. This makes things a little more confusing because number/letter combinations are generally hard to remember for most of us. You can purchase eye shadows individually in their own containers for $12 or you can buy the eye shadows in pans (like I did) which is part of Inglot's Freedom System. Pan eye shadows come in square pans. 1 pan eye shadow costs $7, if you buy 3-9 then each costs $5, if you buy 10+ then each will cost $4.50. I don't know what you think about this, but to me it's a total steal! Their lipsticks, concealers, brow powder/wax, cream concealers also come in pan form, in addition to regular packaging, but they are round.

Pearl 434

The different finishes of eye shadow they sell are; Matte, Pearl, Double Sparkle as well as AMC, AMC Shine and AMC Pure Pigment. I have an unintentional thing for Satin finish in MAC eye shadows and apparently I will have a "thing" for Pearl at Inglot as 5 of the 6 eye shadows I purchased are in Pearl finish.

All of the eye shadows are buttery soft, I am just blown away by the softness and the texture. Pigmentation is out of this world and yes this applies to all colors. I think Inglot eye shadows are just as good as MAC ones, if not better. Applying these eye shadows is a breeze, all colors are buildable to the intensity you like. I did mistakenly applied DS 467 without a base the other day and it actually did not crease. Applying a base before eye shadow application has been such a habit for me that I probably will never ever stop applying but I thought it was kind of neat that this eye shadow did not crease.

Sleeks Cream Lip Paint in 95 is the only lip product I have purchased as I thought it will be more on the glossy side. I wasn't sure about the shine level and what exactly "lip paint" in Inglot meant. What it is is basically a mix between a lip gloss and a lipstick. It adds a nice color to lips without leaving them looking too glossy. I am loving this pink shade! It's totally wearable during the day as it's not a super bright pink, has just the right amount of color and good pigmentation. Texture is not sticky at all, has a pleasant almost a vanilla/coconut-y scent to it. The subtle shine wears off in an hour or so but the color stays on for a bit longer. I love the glass test-tube feel to these lip paints' packaging. They are quite slim and do not take much space in cosmetics bag. Sleeks Cream lip paints retail for $10.

With Flash

Top : Sleek Cream 95
Middle : 409, 420, 449, 467
Bottom : 439, 434

Natural Light

Inglot just launched their website not too long ago and I am pretty sure that they will have many improvements on their website for customer satisfaction. But I would like to point out a few things based on my first shopping experience with them. I think it would be very helpful for those of us who have never shopped at Inglot, for the website to perhaps offer color descriptions so we have at least some kind of an understanding of the color. Secondly it would again be so useful if they could maybe have a drop-down menu of different finishes so we can narrow down our choices.

I did appreciate the color coordination of the eye shadows, that made my browsing a bit easier. I was also very, very pleased with their lightning-fast shipping! It took only 2 business day for me to receive my order (shipped from NY). I am looking forward to trying many other products now that we have access to their online store. I'm excited!

Have you tried Inglot? What are your favorite Inglot products?

Sephora 500-Point Perk - Eye Love Too Faced Palette

2011-04-24T15:04:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone!

I was just at Sephora yesterday to buy a giftcard for a friend's birthday and while at check out I was informed that I am at 500+ points and was asked if I'd like any of the (the lady shows the ~~boring~~ choices) products. I had been thinking of redeeming my points for quite some time but whenever I was checking out (or pretending just to see what the perks are! lol) at Sephora's website, there were nothing but blah products. I mean for 500 points, it'd better be something that's totally worth it!

Then seeing my shrug, the SA shows me this little beauty and I thought "now we're talking"! Thank you lovely lady at Sephora! :) If you guys are planning to use your points, I say definitely hunt this baby down! Especially if you're a Too Faced lover like I am, or simply wish to try out some of their eye shadows before committing to a the full size product, your wish has been granted!

Eye Love Too Faced kit includes 2 eye shadows from each of the permanent Too Faced palettes (Natural Eye, Naked Eye, Smoky Eye and Romantic Eye). As an added bonus, in the kit there is miniature Too Faced Shadow Insurance as well. You also still get the same Too Faced guides like you'd in a regular palette, except this time they are not in card form, but right under the lid. :)

In the palette:

Heaven & Push up - Natural Eye (click here for my review & swatches)

Silver Spoon & Smolder - Smoky Eye

Satin Sheets & Like A Virgin - Naked Eye

Honeymoon & Ever After - Romantic Eye (click here for my review & swatches)

I love that this palette is a lot less bulky compared to regular Too Faced palettes which makes it easier to tote around. I think it will be my go-to palette for get-aways as it has every color I would want while I am away for a couple of days.

I think this is the most wonderful 500 point perk product I have seen thus far! It was totally worth my 500 points! I am super happy that Sephora and Too Faced teamed up for this lovely product. I hope Sephora continues to bring out more amazing 500 point perk products, wouldn't we just love to see more! :)

What do you think about Eye Love Too Faced?

I hope everyone (that celebrates) is having a wonderful Easter with their families, have a lovely Sunday! ♥

HanaAir Professional Hair Dryer

2011-04-21T21:14:00.002-05:00

I was recently contacted by Misikko asking me if I'd like to try out and review Hanaair Professional Hair Dryer. It's now been couple of weeks since I started using it and my experience has been nothing short of excellent. I had no idea that a blow dryer that dries long and thick hair like mine this quick even existed, well, perhaps at salons. And that is exactly the result Hana gives, a salon quality, shiny and beautiful hair in the comfort of your own home!

Box of goodies

Hanaair Professional Hair Dryer offers a sleek Italian design that features a scratch resistant shell and a black metallic finish which makes it more durable and easy to clean. It features three heat settings, two fan settings and a cold shot which can be used to hold a curl. For pinpoint styling and accuracy, it also comes with a concentrator nozzle. On my hair using the nozzle makes a huge different especially when I'm straightening my hair. I was surprised to see (because every other drier I've ever used had like 5") that it has a 12" cord which I can literally take from one room to another, it gives me more freedom to move around. It is noticeably less noisy than any other hair dryer I've used in my life. Another important thing I want to point out is the fact that it is much more environmentally safe as it has low EMF.

Quick facts about my experience...

Decrease in drying time - went from a good 20 minutes to a great 6:41 minutes!

More volume and less static - thanks to the ion technology!

Leaves hair softer - Hair feels softer to touch especially compared to my other dryer that left my hair coarse which I then had to fix by adding more products to my hair to make it look/feel smoother.

Results in shinier hair - My hair is visibly shinier both after blow drying and after styling.

Reduced noise level - Quieter than all of the other blow dryers I have used in the past.

Natural, wet hair

My hair after fully blow dried

L - half way styled R - fully styled

In summary, it takes me approximately 6 minutes to fully blow dry my hair and an additional 15 minutes to style it using Hana. In total of 21 minutes, I have shiny, healthy hair I absolutely love! It usually takes me (or rather used to take me with my old hair drier) close to 20 minutes to dry my hair and an hour to flat iron. I'm stoked to be saving so much time!

I'm so excited that I had the chance to try Hanaair. For me, it's the perfect hair dryer as it has everything I would ever need in a hair dryer and more. Before, I wouldn't really expect a hair dryer to provide additional volume and shine as long as it dried my hair in as little time as possible, but this product does it anyway! Even my hubby approved of it and was amazed at how soft my hair feels! I can't find a single thing I don't like about it and I absolutely recommend it to anyone who is tired of cheap hair dryers that just don't perform, like I was. While this dryer is sort of an investment with its $314 price tag (it is currently on sale at Misikko's website for $194.99), I honestly think it's worth every penny. I can see myself using this hair dryer for many, many years as it totally transforms my hair!

Misikko carries many different professional brands of blow dryers, flat irons as well as other products for all your haircare needs! They also offer free shipping on order of $50+ ;)

Have you tried this hair dryer?

Disclaimer: Products mentioned in this post were provided by Misikko for reviewing purposes. I was not paid to blog about these products.. My reviews about any product on my blog are and will always be written in total honesty.

Current Beauty Obsessions

2011-04-20T20:09:00.005-05:00

I was due for a current obsessions post as I love doing them and reading others' as well, I think they're so much fun to read!

It's pretty self-explanatory, I am addicted to cosmetics but as we speak I don't want to imagine my life without the following.

Orly Rage

I don't even know what got into me, but apparently I, all of a sudden, have a thing for foiled nails. Rage doesn't only give the foiled appearance to nails but it's also rose gold which is a whole another obsession I am currently suffering from.

VS Pink Aloha Wild & Breezy All Over Body Mist

If you are living in an area of the world where spring is being so stubborn and just doesn't wanna come out and play then you need this in your life. Chicago hasn't seen an ounce of spring yet (minus the nearly non-stop showers) and I needed something to feel spring-like. My current ritual to feel springy/summery is: spray this all over, close my eyes and imagine I am on a breezy, sunny island sipping on Piña Colada, though momentarily, it seems to do the trick!

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine #48 Évasion

Must be one of the most hydrating lipsticks I've ever owned. It's great for people who aren't crazy about/applying lip gloss because Chanel's Rouge Coco Shine line offers the perfect amount of shine that you don't even need a lip gloss. The color is perfect for me because it's coral! :)

CG Lashblast

I was using and swearing by Lashblast many, many years ago until I met L'oreal Voluminous which stalled on me a while ago. I, then, tried MUFE Smoky Lash, which I absolutely loved but just couldn't bring myself to spend $22 on a product which I'd need to buy every quarter. So I came back to this old faithful of mine, can't believe I ever left it.

Inglot Eye Shadows

I am so happy that I finally had the chance to try Inglot eye shadows. I have been enjoying them so much, I don't want to wear anything but. I do have a special Inglot post coming up soon so I won't overreact about them on this post, I'll save it for the other post.

What are your current obsessions?

Hard to pick only 5! / Blushes

2011-04-18T20:49:00.001-05:00

This post was initially going to be about my top 5 blush picks but I just couldn't leave any one of these babies out, so here I am with 6 of my favorite blushes!

NARS Lovejoy

This is a very unique color for a blush, it's not pink, nor red or brown. It's a reddish brown with a touch of pink! Lovejoy has been my go-to blush in fall/winter season, it's perfect for both seasons but I can still see myself rocking it during summer nights!

NARS Taj Mahal

Newest addition to my ever-growing blush collection. I knew I would immediately fall in love with Taj Mahal at first swatch and I did. It does look a tad scary in swatches, both because it's not blended out and because it is a powerful color.

Benefit Coralista
Coralista is made for summer; it's a pretty light coral/peach with just the right amount of shimmer to give a beautiful glow to the face.

MAC Blushbaby

Love me some Blushbaby paired with heavy black/gray smokey eye make-up. It really brings the whole look together!

MAC Dollymix

Dollymix was my first pink MAC blush and it's now my favorite pink blush! I enjoy wearing this when I feel extra girly, I mean look at it, it has 'I am such a girly girl' written all over it!

Illamasqua Lover

Anyone that knows me knows that this is my favorite blush ever. It's almost identical to MAC Peaches. Click here to see comparison of the two! If I was to have only one blush on a stranded island, Lover would be the one!

With Flash

Top L-R - Illamasqua Lover, NARS Taj Mahal, MAC Dollymix, Benefit Coralista

Bottom L-R - NARS Lovejoy, MAC Blushbaby

Natural Light

If you could have only one blush in the world, what would you pick?

ORIGINS Be Bright

2011-04-17T20:15:00.001-05:00

I love Origins. I have been loyal to their facial care products for several years now and my experience has been nothing short of excellent. They have a wide range of products for all skin types and concerns. The main reason of my loyalty (apart from the fact that their products work really well with my skin) is because their products are free of some harsh chemicals that are in most of the cosmetics I use daily.

Last week I visited my Origins counter at a local Macy's to purchase a new moisturizer. I just ran out of my A Perfect World moisturizer. I do have some acne scars therefore some discoloration as a result. I've been looking forward to finishing up A Perfect World that way I could try a skin-correcting moisturizer. So I tried Brighter By Nature SPF 35 for a week and loved the way it felt on my skin and how my skin looked as a result. I also wanted to up the SPF since I'd be using it throughout summer.

I was informed at the counter about these special edition boxes. Regularly Brighter By Nature alone retails for $42.50 and this box, which comes with a full-size Brighter By Nature AND other goodies, sells for $46.50. I didn't even think twice about it.

What's in the box?

Full-size Brighter By Nature SPF 35 1.7 oz
Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask 1.7 oz
Never A Dull Moment Skin Brightening Cleanser 1.7 oz
GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream .17 oz
Facial Sponge

There are a total of seven Limited Edition boxes. I picked the Be Bright one because I want to brighten/correct areas on my face that need this. If you are on the lookout for new skincare products or simply want to try Origins, I think these boxes are a great deal than buying each product individually and not knowing whether they will actually work for you. (And of course there are always samples!:))

I will eventually report back on how these products perform. Brighter By Nature, so far, seems to be a keeper!

Thank you for reading, I hope you all have a wonderful week! ♥

e.l.f. Studio Golden Bronzer

2011-04-16T20:55:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone!

I'm alive! I've been spending every single one of my minutes with my sister hence the inactivity on my blog. She returned to Turkey on Wednesday and shortly after that I got a ridicilous cold. Today I have finally found some strength to get up from the bed and be a productive person/blogger! :) Hello new followers!

If you're make-up obsessed and happen to be at Target, you know you cannot leave that store without checking out aisle with elf products! I don't own many elf products but I hear a lot of good things about them. I have been happily using their liquid concealer/highlighter duo as well as the blush/bronzer duo. But I was in the mood for trying a new e.l.f. product and that's when this bronzer caught my eye.

Just for the record I did not need a new bronzer. I am currently going back and forth between, Benefit Hoola, e.l.f. bronzer/blush duo, Sephora blush me twice's bronzer side etc. But the $3 price tag of this bronzer just will not let you go, believe me! It's so affordable that you automatically think "Ah it's only 3 bucks, who will that hurt??" Good technique there e.l.f.! :)

Golden Brozner consists of four gorgeous shades. Top left is copper, top right is light peach, bottom left is off white/champagne, bottom right is taupe. They are all shimmery and quite pigmented. I love that they are not too powdery and they have almost no fall-out during application.

L- Natural Light R-Flash

P.S.: This product currently holds the "most difficult product to take photos of"! Wow, I cannot even believe how many photos I took of it before deciding on these two.

I do like this product but it just doesn't work as a bronzer on my skin tone. I would categorize it more as a highlighter than anything else. My sister also purchased this "bronzer", she's NC20 in MAC/Desert Beige in Estee Lauder Double Wear and she loves using it as a bronzer. So if you're anything like her and are looking for a bronzer, then you're in luck! :) It does give me a healthy, subtle glow and I gotta love it for that! I think it's a good drugstore product, especially for those of us who don't want to spend a fortune on a highlighter/bronzer. It just wasn't what I was expecting it to be, a bronzer.

What do you think about Golden Bronzer?

Here is a collage of some of the photos from our trip, we did spend a day in Toronto hence the photo of CN Tower. (I know a day in any city isn't enough, will definitely return! :))
I ♥ Canada, I wish I could be visiting as often as I used to back when I lived in Seattle!

Hope you're all having a lovely weekend! ♥

Back to MAC Treats

2011-04-04T23:32:00.000-05:00

Hello from Niagara Falls!

I'm currently away in a little getaway to the gorgeous Niagara Falls, Ontario but because I didn't want to leave my blog post-less while I'm gone, I prepared one beforehand so here it is :)

Here are some goodies we accumulated from our back to MAC trip the other day! My sister had 12 containers (which she actually brought from Turkey as MAC there sadly doesn't have this program!) and I had only 6, I could have waited but meh. I got rid off them anyway since I'm skipping the upcoming Quite Cute collection and ok I just needed to pick up something, it was one of those days! I'm sure a lot of you can relate :)

I had been wanting yet another all-over-the-lid type of color and Orb did it for me. Grain will always be my favorite all over color but sometimes you just want variety, nothing wrong with that! Orb can also be used as a subtle highlight color. MAC describes Orb as soft peachy-beige, it's in Satin finish. While browsing through the colors, I thought I'd check off a color from my long make-up-to-buy list and that color is none other than the gorgeous Sumptuous Olive! :) Sumptuous Olive is khaki with pearl and it's in Veluxe Pearl finish.

Orb & Sumptuous Olive

Since I had just run out of my beloved MSF Natural, I had to pick up another one, nothing too exciting here.

My sister also purchased Orb. She uses it all over her lid and finishes off the look with a simple winged out liner, Orb is now part of her daily routine. She back to MAC-ed for Girl About Town lipstick and also purchased a lip liner in Magenta.

L-R: Orb, Sumptuous Olive, Girl About Town, Magenta

Have you back to MAC-ed anything lately? If not, when it's time what are you planning to get?

Hope everyone is having a fabulous week! ♥

March Favorites

2011-03-31T22:49:00.000-05:00

Happy April everyone!

I know a lot of people bring out their colorful shades of lipsticks, nail polishes, eye-shadows etc. as we get further away from winter and closer to summer. I have no idea what happened in my case, but lately I've been keeping it pretty neutral. Regardless, I present you my top products for the month of March!

Too Faced Natural Eye Palette

This palette is my favorite palette ever, hands down. Sounds cliche but I seriously love each and every color in this palette and I use every single one quite a bit! My favorite combo has to be, Heaven all over lid, Velvet Revolver on crease and Erotica to add some depth to crease. Love love love it!

Essie Nail polish in Topless & Barefoot

I lost count of how many times I removed and reapplied Topless & Barefoot the entire month!

Coastal Scents Destiny Precision Angled Liner Brush

I used to swear by the Sonia Kashuk version of this brush until I discovered it last month! O M G, perfect winged out line every time! If you have shaky hands or just cannot get your eyeliner to look perfect give this brush a try! I bought it on Coastal Scent's website for $2.19. Best 2 bucks I have spent in a while! I will definitely buy more of them in near future as I am a total procrastinator when it comes to brush cleaning oops!

Milani Baked Blush in Rose D'oro

This blush adds just the perfect amount of coral to my cheeks and is stunning! I haven't been able to find the other shades but as soon as I do, they will be mine! For a drugstore brand, this blush has amazing color pay off and pigmentation!

Covergirl Lip Perfection Lipstick in Delish

Drugstore lipsticks continue to amaze me! Covergirl did an absolutely fantastic job with these lipsticks! They come in 40 something shades, have a creamy consistency and apply like a dream! So far these lip perfection lipsticks have to be my favorite from the drugstore (after my Revlon Soft Nude of course!)

Agadir Argan Oil Hair Treatment

Where has this oil been all my life?? I love what this argan oil does to my hair. I apply it on my hair while it's still damp after shower. When I wake up the next morning, I have soft, smooth, shiny and totally touchable hair! I wanna touch my hair all the time :D

Are any of my favorites your favorites as well? If not, what are yours?

Going through my sister's make-up bag! // Lipsticks

2011-03-30T23:17:00.000-05:00

As some of you may know, my sister is in town visiting me :D Because we're both make-up addicts I just had to go through the make-up she brought here tee-hee! (She goes through my stuff daily so it's only fair!) I thought it'd be fun to share her products on my blog so here we are!

My sister and I have different tastes when it comes to make-up! Especially when it comes to lipsticks, I am all about the light pinks, corals and nudes where as she is in love with reds and other interesting colors (she gave me the side eye when I called these colors interesting lol) like maroon and magenta! I think she just has the perfect skin color to work these colors, she is NC20 with olive undertones for reference. I really admire her capability to beautifully wear these shades whether it's day or nighttime, she's my lipstick idol! :)

I think she has a little lipstick problem! :) Oh and she also just back 2 MAC-ed for Girl About Town which needless to say looks amazing on her! I, on the other hand, cannot imagine myself wearing colors like Girl About Town or any of these reds even in my dreams.

L-R: Chanel #19 Gabrielle, MAC Craving, MAC Viva Glam Cyndi, L'oreal Plum Brulee

Gabrielle is absolutely stunning on her, it's her favorite red lipstick ever! I could see myself wearing Viva Glam Cyndi, only if applied with a light hand of course! The other two are also pretty but just not me.

L-R: MAC Angel, MAC Blankety, MAC Hue, MAC Perennial High Style, MAC Oyster Girl

Now the above photo has my name all over it! :D I'm happy to see colors that I love and can relate to, such as MAC's Angel (my fave MAC pink ever!) and Blankety! I also love Perennial High Style and totally regret getting the ~~ugly~~ beautiful English Accents instead.

Top L-R: Chanel Gabrielle, MAC Craving, MAC Viva Glam Cyndi, L'oreal Plum Brulee

Bottom L-R: MAC Angel, MAC Hue, MAC Blankety, Perennial High Style, Oyster Girl

She has many more lipsticks in her collection, but this is all she brought on her trip. Another color I love that she has is MAC's Costa Chic, which will hopefully be added to my collection soon! By the way, have you guys noticed how the top of her lipsticks are flat? Mine are so pointy that I'm afraid they'll break, I need to get some application tips from her! Does anyone else have flat top lipsticks?

What do you think about her lip products? Anyone else share my fear of wearing reds, maroons and all those colors?

Spring Nail Polish Picks!

2011-03-28T12:39:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone!

Sorry I haven't been able to update my blog as often as I'd like as my sister just flew in from Turkey few days ago. We've been busy catching up and having sisterly fun! :D Thanks for bearing with my lack of productivity, I do have more posts coming up though. ;)

Although the recent temperatures in Chicago (think mid 30s on a good day!) do not seem like spring is upon us, technically it is! I am ready to slap on some pastels and pretty, feminine colors in general on my nails! Here are my picks for spring :) I just got these color wheels from Sally's thinking the colors would be easier to photograph and just to have neater swatches, I like the outcome!

L-R

Essie Topless & Barefoot

Essie Mint Candy Apple

Essie Lapis of Luxury

Essie Splash of Grenadine

OPI Lucky Lucky Lavender

China Glaze Light As Air

OPI Mod About You

Essie Van D'Go

Revlon Temptress

China Glaze Peachykeen

Revlon Tropical Temptation

As you can see I'm obsessed with pinks and purples once spring time rolls around but of course I like to mix it up, how long can one wear pink nail polish?! I would have just loved to add a pastel yellow to my collection as I love yellow! But..I seriously hate the way pastel yellow looks on my hands, I tried it.

If you could add some nail polish colors to this color wheel, what would you add?

I always love nail polish recommendations! :)

Hope everyone's week is off to a great start! ♥

Grooming My Eyebrows

2011-03-21T14:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everyone!

Few of people e-mailed me asking about how I groom my eyebrows so here I am! They are not perfect by any means, but I like their shape and the way they look with the rest of my face :) (Believe me, I was one of those 13 year-olds who plucked the crap out of her brows, so I've come a looooong way! :))

Tools I use...

I have...

an eyebrow comb (doesn't have to be an expensive one, mine is from Ulta)
pair of scissors
eyebrow razor/trimmer
tweezers (mine is from Revlon, I had it for years, they're the best I've ever owned)
Anastasia Brow Duality highlighter pencil and Anastasia Brow Gel (these are optional, I do use the brow gel everyday)
flat (brow) brush
MAC Print eyeshadow which I use to fill in my brows (of course that's because my brows are black, you should choose a shade based on your hair color)

I use the trimmer because I feel that for the brows to look fresh and clean, the area surrounding the brows should be free of hair or have minimal fuzz. My upper eyebrow area can be sensitive if I do use tweezers there. I find these trimmers to do the job without any pain or irritation. These trimmers do a fantastic job in my opinion! They are called "Tinkle" I bought them from Amazon but I'm sure you can find them at dollar/discount stores. Alternatively you can use...

I found these at my local market and they are by Ardell which is way more widely available in markets, drugstores etc. This pack had the razor (on left, to trim down the eyebrow - alternative to scissors) and 3 trimmers ( to remove fuzz/above or below brows, I'm just showing one of them) I believe it was around $4.

1. Start with bushy, desperately needing to be plucked eyebrows.

2. With the brow comb, comb the hairs on the inner part of your face upwards and trim with scissors. (I forgot to take a photo of scissors scene oops!)

3. Clean up the upper eyebrow area with trimmer, working your way down towards the eyebrow.

4. It should look something like this.

5. Using tweezers, pluck away any unwanted hair below brows.

6. Pick up your fill color with your flat brush, I'm using Print by MAC.

7. Fill in the sparse areas that need help, making sure you fill in lightly on inner part and increasing intensity as you're moving towards the end of the brows.

8. Filled in eyebrow.

9. Coat/brush brows with clear brow gel working your way out towards to end of brows.

10. Apply highlighter right below your brows and blend.

11. Highlighted brows.

12. Finished.

I hope this post was helpful for those of you who asked me about my brows! If you have any more questions, let me know! :))

Hope you all have a lovely week! ♥

Shu Uemura Painting Liner in Black

2011-03-19T14:39:00.001-05:00

This is a loooong over-due post about my now favorite gel liner. I purchased this "painting liner" back in December and just now getting around to sharing my experience with you all. I had always heard/read great things about Shu Uemura's Painting Liners. When my Wet n Wild gel liner started to turn into a hard little ball and was just unusable, I knew I had to start looking for another gel liner. I love gel liners because of their consistency and find them so easy to work with, unless of course they dry up like the Wet n Wild one.

Shu Uemura's painting liners come nestled in a little white box like this. And the gel liner comes in a glass jar which I think is a nice and classy touch. Cosmetics in glass containers/jars have always got an A from me because I always think of glass to be sanitary :)

This gel liner is a true black, like pitch black. Pigmentation is a jaw dropper as you can see on my swatch. Its perfectly creamy consistency is very easy to work with (and I am not expert in lining, believe me!) I would say it takes about 20-30 seconds to fully dry. For me that's plenty of time to perfect my eyeliner. I don't only use my painting liner on my upper lid but also in the water line. When I first watched a short segment about this product in part of a video on Youtube, I was sort of weirded out by the idea of putting something in gel-form in your waterline. When I tried it myself, I was really amazed. I was skeptical that it may burn or sting but nope it's very waterline-friendly.

I am beyond impressed with its staying power on my waterline. Honestly I thought "ahh people are overreacting", I was wrong because it really does last for hours without having to touch up. I am also very happy to report that there is no smudging or collection of product in inner or outer corners. that is always a plus in my book! Since buying it in December, I use it almost daily and by looking at the little pot you can see it will last me a very long time! I love "a little goes a long way" type of products! Yay! :)

I use these two brushes for application. The white, bent one is by Sonia Kashuk (purchased at Target for $5.99) and it's perfect for getting more of a precise line. I love that it's bent so it gives you more control and helps you achieve a cleaner line. The other one is by EcoTools (available at Walgreens as part of 5 piece brush set for $10.99). I use this brush when I want to have a thicker eyeliner and it also helps me a lot with doing a flick at the end.

Verdict? I will definitely repurchase this gel liner. I am so impressed with the quality of this product and the fact that it's made to really last. It is on the pricier side at $22 for .098oz (2.8gr) but it is everything I look for in an eyeliner period. So for me it's worth every penny. It's HG material, hands down. I would also love to try it in different colors as I love me some color on my lower lash line!

What do you think about gel liners? Have you tried Shu Uemura's Painting Liner?

Too Much Hype

2011-03-18T20:04:00.006-05:00

Today's post may be a bit controversial as I will be talking ~~smack~~ about over-hyped products based on my experiences with them. Of course as always, they may work for you and you may think they are the next best thing after sliced bread. I, however, was quite let down by all of these products you will read about below.

MAC Fix +

A lot of people swear by Fix+ and being surrounded by all this hype about it I just had to see it for myself. Honestly I don't see or feel any difference in the way my face looks, feels or the amount of time my foundation lasts whether I use Fix+ or not. It is very refreshing when you first spray it and has a very fresh scent but that's all there is to it. I am sorry to say this was such a waste of money and in stead I could have invested in an eye-shadow or lipstick.

L'oreal Lineur Intense

Another purchase that was made because of all the hype about it and it coincided with me needing a liquid eyeliner at the time. Back then I was usually only using pencil eyeliners. But then I started seeing Lineur Intense popping up all over the place. So I tried it and actually found it to be doing a decent job, for a while. Shortly after I realized the eyeliner just wasn't staying put and it would migrate from the inner corner of my eyes to where my pupil begins. It would also end up in the outer corner of my eyes which just looks bad. No matter how much I shook it up before application, I would need to dip the applicator a few times before getting a decent amount of product.

MAC Myth Lipstick

Myth, without a doubt, is one of the most popular shades of MAC lipsticks. It was my first MAC lipstick ever and I honestly don't know what I was thinking when I bought it. It definitely does not suit my skin tone, at all. It's not a lipstick that a lot of people can pull off. Its concealer-like texture, look and feel are not flattering at all. I don't have much to say about it other than, at times I did think about just scraping it out to back to MAC it but it can be used as a lip eraser under another lipstick.

Urban Decay 24/7 Pencils

Urban Decay makes these 24/7 pencils in a variety of shades and that is great! Their lasting power on the other hand is not. Again just like Lineur Intense, they migrate from where I originally apply. They also end up under my lower lash-line and occasionally they will end up on my crease regardless of primer potion/base application.

CHI 44 Iron Guard

I really wanted this product to work because I do use heat on my hair quite a lot. In fact it's very highly unlikely that you will see me with my naturally curly hair, ever. I have given this protectant countless chances and it manages to leave my hair looking grossly greasy after I am finished with styling it. My hair is not oily by any means. I just have normal hair. It also makes straightening my hair much harder than it would be if I were to use Tresemme Heat Tamer or nothing at all. After blow drying with this product in my hair then going onto straightening with a flat iron, my hair seems to get stuck in the flat iron. Pulling the flat iron down feels like someone is pulling my hair. And once I manage to go all the way down with the flat iron my hair looks greasy and fried. My hair also feels super dry so forget about silky smooth hair! I will just stick to my Tresemme Heat Tamer which does a fantastic job!

Maybelline One by One Volum' Express Mascara

I don't see what everyone sees in this mascara, at all. Especially when there are much much better alternatives that truly deserve all the hype they get. What is it? Darkening (obviously) given the fact that it's a black substance. I could apply black marker on my lashes and that would also make my lashes darker. It is separating hence the name One by One. What is it not? Volumizing, curling or lengthening. I don't know about you guys but when I think of mascara, I think dramatic, sexy, flirty, fluttery lashes. Not spider legs. No thanks.

Source

Here is the model shot Maybelline uses for their One by One mascara...I have read/seen numerous blog posts and watched many videos about this mascara and not once have I seen lashes that looked like the model's while wearing this mascara. Of course most of us know better than to fall for the ads but I just think it's ridicilous that they use the above picture to market their product that doesn't even come close to producing results like this.

I would love the know which products were a letdown for you as well. Do tell! :)

Wishing everyone a beautiful weekend! ♥

Ebrushka's Makeup Bag

Top 5 Eyeshadows

Monthly Favorites // January '12

MAC Constructivist Paint Pot

2011 Favorites

Life Lately, According to my iPhone Pictures

November Favorites

October Favorites

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Birchbox / October

Lipstick and Brush Storage

Fall Faves / Blushes

Discovering - Z Palette

Imaginary at Work

September Favorites

Posh Paradise Paint Pots = Love

Birchbox / September

theBalm Bahama Mama Bronzer

MAC Favorites / Neutral Eyeshadows

theBalm Frat Boy

Sleek Treats

August Favorites

Finished Up / August

MAC Ravishing & Friends

Discovering - TheBalm

Spark-tacular

Products I'm Loving Now

Favorite NYX Lipsticks

Birchbox / August

Stash Shopping

July Favorites

Finished Up / July

Kérastase Bain Miroir Shampoo - Sample

A Little Haul

Walking on Eggshells

What's In My Bag + New Hair

Apothica Giveaway Winner

Deserves all the hype!

Birchbox / July

JULEP Nail Polishes

Top 10 Beauty Products

Apothica Giftcard Giveaway! - Closed

June Favorites

MAC Treats

Finished Up / June

MAC Lovelorn

Most Reached For Makeup Products

Summer Blushes

Things I ♥ Now

Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in Honey Dipped

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine 48 Évasion

What's in my *new* makeup bag?

Birchbox / June

May Favorites

Finished Up / May

Dior Addict Lipstick - 465 - Singulière

How Much Is Your Face Worth?

Birchbox / May

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush - Tipsy

Braziliant and Co.

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil

Pink Blush Picks!

Ever Hip

April Favorites

Inglot Treats

Sephora 500-Point Perk - Eye Love Too Faced Palette

HanaAir Professional Hair Dryer

Current Beauty Obsessions

Hard to pick only 5! / Blushes

ORIGINS Be Bright

e.l.f. Studio Golden Bronzer

Back to MAC Treats

March Favorites

Going through my sister's make-up bag! // Lipsticks

Spring Nail Polish Picks!

Grooming My Eyebrows

Shu Uemura Painting Liner in Black

Too Much Hype

What's in my new makeup bag?