Christmas Wonderland with BPS Chevron Striping Tape

Christmas Wonderland Manicure

Check out this adorable Christmas Wonderland Manicure I did using Chevron Striping Tape from the Born Pretty Store.  I love it!  I was really excited to bust out my holiday nail stickers.  I definitely want to do more manicures with them while I have the chance.  I was also really excited to use this new chevron striping tape.  I have used striping tape before, but I have never seen it in chevron pattern.  I knew that I had to try it immediately, and the Born Pretty Store was kind enough to send it to me for review.

BPS Chevron Striping Tape

BPS Chevron Striping Tape

The tape has a thin chevron line running through the center, so it separates into three parts.  I think that’s great because it make the tape even more versatile with the different designs that you can accomplish.  I chose the black shade because I thought that I would be most likely to use that shade as a decorative nail sticker as well as a striping tape.  Born Pretty also offers the tape in blue, white, red, silver, and gold.  The adhesive is really sticky, so I got a good seal on the nail and had no issues with polish leaking under the tape.  I’m not going to lie, using the tape can be time consuming, depending on how complicated your design is.  However, with practice, I am sure you can cut down on the time it takes just by familiarity with using the product.  Striping tapes are easier to use than they look, and even a beginner can accomplish some really complicated looking designs.

Christmas Wonderland Manicure

For my Christmas Wonderland Manicure I laid out the striping tape on my thumb, index finger, and little finger in the pattern that I pictured above on my naked nail.  I used Wet ‘n’ Wild Megalast in I Red a Good Book for the base color and SinfulColors Snow Me White for the stripes.  On my middle two fingers I used Snow Globe from China Glaze to make it look like it was snowing.  Then I flipped the larger edge of the striping tape upside down and used Snow Me White for the fallen snow.  I added a couple nail stickers that I bought last year and topped everything with Seche Vite.  I love how it came out.  The BPS Chevron Striping Tape is currently on sale for $1.47 a roll, and I highly recommend it.

You can see the other BPS reviews I have done by clicking on the Born Pretty Store link in the “Categories” section on the right hand side of the blog.  As I’ve mentioned in previous reviews, the Born Pretty Store is located in China, so shipping will take a while.  It is normal for orders to take 2-4 weeks to ship to the US, and in my experience, I have gotten most of my orders within 2-3weeks.  You should still plan ahead if you are ordering something time sensitive like holiday items and order them early.  Orders ship within 24 hours.  Check out the BPS website bornprettstore.com, or their facebook page for more details.  For 10% off any regular priced items from the website, use coupon code BBBK31.

FTC Disclosure: The product reviewed in this post was provided to me for free by Born Pretty Store for consideration.  This does not guarantee a positive review, and my thoughts on these products are 100% honest.  No other type of compensation was accepted.  I do not get any kick backs or compensation from any orders placed.

Monthly Favorites and Fails, May 2015

Monthly Favorites

With June quickly approaching, I have my Monthly Favorites and Fails for May ready for you today.  For anyone new to the blog, Monthly Favorites are those products that particularly stood out to me, and ones that I reached for over and over throughout the month.  Fails are products that simply did not work out and I do not recommend, because it is just as important to know what products to avoid as it is to know which ones to get.  May was a much better month for me than April (otherwise known as that time I came down with the Plague).  Though was still dealing with sickness for the first week or so of May, I felt much better and much more myself during the rest of the month.  I also did some traveling in May, and my Favorites reflect the items that I took with me on that trip and just kept using.  So let’s get into it.

Beauty Without Cruelty A.H.A. 3% Facial Cleanser

I received this Beauty Without Cruelty AHA Facial Cleanser in my December Ipsy bag.  I didn’t use it right away because it claims to be designed for normal to oily skin and my skin is dry.  However, it was nice and compact, and I didn’t have any other cleansers that would fit in my travel bag, so I decided to bring it with me to North Carolina.  I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.  It cleansed my skin thoroughly without making it feel stripped or tight.  The formula will be problematic for some because of the inclusions of aroma-therapy essential oils.  They did not seem to bother my skin, and the scent is very subtle and not bothersome at all.  Beauty Without Cruelty AHA Facial Cleanser is not going to become one of my go-to products, but I am glad that I got the sample from Ipsy because I have really enjoyed it this month.

Maybelline Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer

My next Favorite for May is the Maybelline Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer.  I reviewed this concealer back in February and said that I really liked it.  I stand by that assessment.  Maybelline Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer goes on so smoothly, doesn’t look cakey in the slightest, and I do not have issues with creasing or settling into fine lines around my eyes.  At the same time, it has really great staying power, especially if you set it with a light powder.  It is a great concealer, and you should definitely try it out.  I have it in the shade Light.

L’Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Powder

I ran out of my beloved Revlon Nearly Naked Powder (so sad) and have been using this L’Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Powder instead.  It is a completely different formula than Nearly Naked, but I have been enjoying it.  It is very finely milled, and looks good on the skin.  The Infallible Pro Matte Powder has some pretty decent coverage on its own.  Though it is a setting powder and not a powder foundation, it does have some of the same qualities that a powder foundation has.  If you have good skin, you can get away with just using Infallible Pro Matte Powder.  I am not that lucky.  I like the Infallible Pro Matte Powder a lot, but I do have to be careful to use a light hand because it goes from light and airy to overly powdery rather quickly.  I do think that it is a good option, and have been using it a lot all through May.

Wet n Wild Drinking a Glass of Shine

A product that I have been using so much that I couldn’t not include it is the Wet n Wild Drinking a Glass of Shine palette (also known as I (Heart) Matte palette).  I usually try not to include limited edition items in my favorites because I want to make sure you can get your hands on it if you see a product you like, so I apologize.  Because I was traveling I needed something compact that I could do some quick and easy looks with that could go with any outfit.  I have been loving applying the creamy browbone shade all over the eye first, and then using the peach shade liberally in the crease.  I then deepen the crease with the brown shade using a small pencil brush, and use the black shadow for liner.  I have probably worn that simple eye look 60% of the time this month.  It was so easy that I didn’t need to think about it, and it looks beautiful.  You do not need this palette to accomplish the look.  Any collection of similar matte shades (and there are many) will do the trick, but this is the product that I have been using and I love it.

Coastal Scents Go Palette in Beijing

When I wasn’t using the Wet n Wild palette, I went for the Coastal Scents Go Palette in Beijing.  The pinks and mauves in this palette were exactly what I wanted for some sweet and romantic pops of color.  I used to avoid pinks and purples but over the last few years I have seen the error of my ways and now I love them.  I know that I have talked about how great Coastal Scents is and how much I enjoy their shadows.  The Coastal Scents shadows are pigmented and smooth, and they are so affordable.  The Go palettes are a great bargain, especially because Coastal Scents often offers them in a bundle sale.

Milani Baked Blush in Rose D’Oro

For blush this month, I pulled out an oldie but a goody, the Milani Baked Blush in Rose D’Oro.  You’ve seen it before, you know what it is.  It has been too long since I used Rose D’Oro, and I almost forgot how much I truly love this blush.  Once I pulled it out again, however, I haven’t been able to put it down.  Just look at it!  It is a rosy peach shade with gold veining throughout.  The gorgous shimmer means that you can skip a separate highlighter.  It can be sheered out for a soft glowy flush, or layered for intense color.  It looks amazing on the cheeks.  Rose D’Oro is the perfect shade for spring and summer, and I am not putting it back in my drawer.  I am going to be wearing the heck out of it over the next few months.

Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm in Fresh Plum

A new (to me) product that I’ve been enjoying this month has been the Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm in Fresh Plum.  I have been going for a barely there lip all month, and when I am not wearing my Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatments, I have been wearing this.  I have one word to describe the Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm- comfortable.  You all know how obsessed I am with the Nivea Kiss of Milk and Honey and Nivea Kiss of Olive Oil & Lemon lip balms.  They are Holy Grail, can’t live without them status.  Well the Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm feels very similar.  It is so moisturizing and comfortable on the lips.  The color is very sheer, so it is perfect for days when you couldn’t be bothered to do a lip color, but you want something there.  It’s a great product to throw in your purse and go.

That does it for my favorites, now onto this month’s Fails.  Always keep in mind that my reviews are based on my specific experience with these products, and good or bad, you may have different results.  So, just because I give a product a bad review, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is a bad product.  It just means that it did not work for me.

Eclos Skincare

I tried this 6-Piece Anti-Aging Starter Kit from Eclos Skincare.  Eclos is a branch of Freeman Beauty.  I really love Freeman facial masks, so I decided to try their skincare line the last time I made a purchase from Freeman’s website.  You can also get this set from Ulta.  Eclos touts their Apple Stem Cell Technology as truly amazing stuff that is clinically proven to significantly reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.  I call shenanigans.  The products were generic at best, and some were truly terrible.  Not only did these products do absolutely nothing for my skin, but the scent was unbearable to me.  These are not large sample sizes, but even so, I couldn’t finish several of them.  Even the clay mask, something that Freeman does very well, was just ho-hum for me.  The primer was so bad that I tossed it after one use.  I like Freeman Beauty a lot, and their masks are wonderful.  I really wanted to like the Eclos skincare line.  Ultimately though, I hated all of it and do not recommend that you try any Eclos products.

That is all for my May Favorites and Fails.  I hope you saw something that you might want to check out for yourself.  If you have used any of these products, I’d love to know what you thought of them in the comments below.  May was a good month for me.  I am finally feeling back to normal.  I have several projects on the horizon, and am nervous but excited.  I am not looking forward to the intense heat of a Southern California summer, but at least I won’t have to endure the humidity like I did in NC.  Are you looking forward to the summer?  Any big plans on the horizon?  Let me know.  🙂

Best One and Done Shadows for Single Shade Looks

Best One and Done Shades

I am really excited about today’s post.  There is a tag doing around Youtube about the best shadows for one shade looks.  I think that’s great because, let’s face it, sometimes we simply don’t have the time or the inclination to do a complicated shadow look with six different shades.  Sometimes we need to rush out the door and only have five minutes to throw on our makeup.  Or maybe you just want to do a simple look to liven up your face as you run a couple errands on a Saturday.  I have seven one-and-done shadows, all from the drugstore, that will give you a beautiful eye look with just one shade.

Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze

One of the easiest shadows to apply when you need to rush out the door are cream shadows.  My first one-and-done offering is Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze.  I find that the Color Tattoos work very well for me without creasing or fading and don’t need to be set by a powder.  I don’t even need a brush.  I simply apply the Color Tattoo and blend it out with my fingers, easy peasy.  Bad to the Bronze is a deep metallic bronze shade.  The intense metallic finish gives it a multi-dimensional look when the light catches it, making it look like you have more things happening on your eye than you actually do.

e.l.f. Smudge Pot in Cruisin’ Chic

Another cream shadow that I have spoken of often is the e.l.f. Smudge Pot in Cruisin’ Chic.  It is a gorgeous brown-based metallic taupe, and a lighter shade than Bad to the Bronze.  The Smudge Pots are so lightweight and creamy, they blend like a dream.  When they dry down they have great lasting power with no creasing or fading.  I really love Cruisin’ Chic.  It couldn’t be easier to apply with either a brush or your fingers.  It is a great everyday option that all by itself looks like I put way more effort into my eye look than I really did.

L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Amber Rush

Moving away from the cream shadows, let’s talk about L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Amber Rush.  First of all, if you don’t already have this shade in your collection, run out and get it immediately because it is gorgeous.  Amber Rush is a metallic rose gold color that is to-die-for.  It is so beautiful!  The Infallible Eyeshadows are pressed pigments that seem to “melt” onto the skin during application.  The soft, velvety texture glides on beautifully and is extremely lightweight.  You can use either a brush or your fingers to apply.  I like to use both, actually.  I use my fingers to pack the shade onto my lid, and then diffuse it up through the crease with a fluffy brush.  One shadow look or not, Amber Rush is a must-have.  Another Infallible Eyeshadow option for a one shadow look is Bronzed Taupe, but that one is quite a bit darker.

Ulta Brilliant Color Eye Shadow in Taupe

A similar style to the L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows is the Ulta Brilliant Color Eye Shadow in Taupe.  It is also a pressed pigment and performs just as well as the L’Oreal Infallibles.  Taupe is a warm brown based, metallic taupe shade.  It is a great neutral, but with some drama and intensity. It is a little bit lighter than Bad to the Bronze, and a little darker than Cruisin’ Chic.  For those of you who aren’t a fan of cream shadows, this type of shadow may be a better option.  You can apply Ulta Brilliant Color Eye Shadow in Taupe with fingers, or use a synthetic brush for great results.

Wet n Wild Coloricon Single Eyeshadow in Nutty

I can’t do a one-and-done post without mentioning the quintessential Wet n Wild Coloricon Single Eyeshadow in Nutty.  It is a metallic taupe that works for any occasion.  It can be built up for a darker look, or sheered out to look more natural.  Nutty is a standard powder eyeshadow, so those who may not know how to use other formulas will be able to apply it with ease.  It is the least expensive shadow on the list at only $0.99.  Wet n Wild Coloricon Single Eyeshadows are intensely pigmented, have excellent lasting power and an overall fantastic formula.  You need Nutty in your life.

Jesse’s Girl Pure Pigment Eye Dust in Sunlit Cactus

A somewhat daring one shadow option is the Jesse’s Girl Pure Pigment Eye Dust in Sunlit Cactus.  I mentioned this in my April favorites post and can not get enough of it.  There are orange, gold, and green pigments in the shadow, and they create all of these fantastic dimensions to the eye.  Loose shadows can be a little messy at times, but I definitely think that Sunlit Cactus is worth the trouble.  The shade is so eye catching, and interesting without much effort on your part.  It has so much drama and intensity, it can absolutely stand alone.

e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow in Golden

The last shade that I have is e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow in Golden.  It is a warm, brassy gold shade that is lighter than many of the shadows on this list for those who don’t like dark eye looks.  I really like the e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow formula.  It blends extremely easily and evenly.  The shades offer great pigmentation, but can be applied lightly and sheered out for a subtle wash of color.  For a one color look, I would pack Golden on the lid, and then gradually blend it up to nothingness with a fluffy brush.  It is beautiful.

Best One and Done Shade Swatches

Here is a swatch of all the shades mentioned, side-by-side and in the order they were mentioned, so that you can easily compare them to each other.  By now you may be noticing a trend in all of these shades.  They are all shimmer or metallic finish and they are mid-tone shades in the taupe, bronze, and gold families.  My personal opinion is that those are the best shadows for single shade looks.  They are universally flattering, go with everything, and the finish catches the light in such a way that the shadows look darker or lighter with the contours of your eye.  You can certainly do one shadow looks with other shades families like grays or plums, but these shades are the ones that I thought would appeal to the most people, and that most of you may already own.  You can achieve different looks with only a single shade depending on the tools you use to apply them.  For most of these shades I would recommend a flat shader brush for the lid and a fluffy brush for the crease to alter the way the shadow looks slightly.  You don’t have to make it too complicated; the whole point is that these are for easy looks to get you out the door quickly.  I hope that you saw some shades you like and that you try some one shadow looks the next time you are pressed for time.  What are your favorite one-and-done shades?  Let me know in the comments below.

Monthly Favorites, February 2015 Edition

February Favorites

It’s the end of the month, so you know what that means.  It’s Monthly Favorites time!  For anyone new to the blog, Monthly Favorites are those products that particularly stood out to me, and ones that I reached for over and over throughout the month.  February was a month of experimentation, beauty-wise.  I have been tying to shop my stash and get use out of all sorts of products.  I really tried to mix it up and use different products each time, so consequently choosing my favorites this month was much harder than usual.  I managed to do it, though, so without further ado, here are my Monthly Favorites for February.

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness and Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

I am trying to work my way through my primers and foundations before I open any new ones, and one thing that I keep going back to month after month is the It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Neutralizing Correcting Cream.  It is such a great product.  I love using it as a base layer under lighter foundations that don’t have enough coverage for me on their own.  It is a great layering product.  It is light-weight and dries down matte.  It really covers up my rosacea and helps my foundation look great.  I have also lately been using Bye Bye Redness on its own.  I simply go back in for a second layer over the areas that I feel need some extra help.  A little goes a long way, and this product has lasted for months.  I prefer to use my Real Techniques Expert Face Brush to apply and blend it out.  Though this isn’t normally my favorite foundation brush, it works fabulously with Bye Bye Redness.  The brush fits perfectly in the jar and it spreads just the right amount of product for a smooth and even layer.  This is a great duo and I have been really loving them.

 

Maybelline Master Glaze Blush Stick in Make a Mauve

On my cheeks I have been loving my new Maybelline Master Glaze Blush Stick in Make a Mauve.  I am going to do a full review soon, so I am not going to go into too much detail now.  Make a Mauve has a lovely, creamy formula that blends well without pulling up my foundation.  It is a gorgeous red-toned mauve shade that sheers out for a “just came in from the cold” healthy flush to the cheeks.  It is a great product, so keep an eye out for my full review with all the details coming soon.

Maybelline Master Hi-Light Bronzer in Deep Bronze

You know that I have been loving my Maybelline Master Hi-Light blush in Mauve over the last few months, but in February I put it down in favor of the Maybelline Master Hi-Light Bronzer in Deep Bronze.  Even though most of the country is buried in snow, here in sunny Southern California it’s been blue skies and warm weather, so I am hearing some of my spring and summer colors calling my name.  Deep Bronze is a warm, golden bronze shade.  It is quite shimmery, so I don’t use it for contouring.  It’s a great a blush, though, for that golden bronze look.  There is a lot of red in this shade, so it’s more suited for those with neutral or warm undertones in their skin, but it is absolutely gorgeous.

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner in Taupe

Moving on to eyes, I have been reaching or my Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner in Taupe a lot this month.  Rimmel is extremely affordable and the Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajals have a great formula.  Taupe is my favorite of the bunch because it is a unique shade to my collection and a really versatile liner.  This is such a great shade for the lower lash line for some definition that is appropriate for the daytime when black or brown might be too much.

Wet n Wild Drinking a Glass of Shine

I usually try not to include limited edition items in my favortes because I want to make sure you can get your hands on it if you see a product you like.  However, I have been reaching for the Wet n Wild Drinking a Glass of Shine palette (also known as I (Heart) Matte palette) so much over the last couple of months, that I really needed to include it.  I use this palette in conjunction with any variety of other eyeshadows because of the fantastic neutral shades.  That peachy “eyelid” shade is a fantastic transition shadow to use in a large number of looks.  The “browbone” highlight is an everyday staple, and I use the black shadow for liner all the time.  I know many of you picked up this palette and it may be sitting in your drawer because you think of it as a colorful palette, but pull it out and use the neutral side.  It goes with everything.

Lorac Platinum Status Eyeshadow Palette

And finally, we have the Lorac Platinum Status Eyeshadow Palette.  Again, this was limited edition, but it is a great palette for February.  I have loved the sweet, romantic eye looks that I have been getting from this palette.  There are some similar shades in the Wet n Wild Petal Pusher palette, since this Lorac palette isn’t available anymore.  I love that gorgeous shimmery rosy-mauve paired with the satin plum shade right next to it.  I have been trying to wear more purple-toned shadows.  Though I will probably always favor greens, golds, and browns as my favorite colors, I have noticed that purples look really good with my coloring.  Lorac usually releases these five pan palettes around Thanksgiving, and they are fantastic, so keep an eye out when the time comes.

That is all for my February favorites.  I hope you saw something that you might want to check out for yourself.  If you have used any of these products, I’d love to know what you thought of them in the comments below.  February was a good month for me.  I feel like I am finally settling in after the move and getting back to normal.  I have been so busy this month, and have been extremely sleep deprived, but otherwise I’ve been doing well.  I am looking forward to the Spring, and busting out some of my more fun colors.  I have a feeling greens and corals are going to feature heavily in the next couple months.  I am usually all for a long winter, but this year I am ready or Spring to come my way.  How about you?

Monthly Favorites for August 2014

August favorites

August is now over, so it’s Monthly Favorites time.  For those of you who are new to the blog, Monthly Favorites feature those products that particularly stood out to me and ones that I reached for over and over throughout the month.  Let me just get it out there right now: I am so thrilled that summer is almost over.  I know that some of you love summer, and I am sorry, but I can’t wait for Fall to settle in.  School is back in session, we are starting to see the new Fall collections, and summer is on the way out.  Happy day.  You will definitely be able to see my longing for Fall in my makeup favorites this month, especially when it comes to lip products.  After a couple months of bright corals, greens, and bronzes, darker shades are starting to creep in.  But enough of my yapping, let’s get started.

Lorac Pro Palette 2

My number one favorite thing the entire month (from the middle of July, really) is the Lorac Pro Palette 2.  I love it!  I think it is even better than the first one.  I know that some of you are waiting for a review, and I will be getting to it soon.  Just know that it is really great, and completely worth it.  I am getting a ton of use out of it, and will continue to do so as we move into Fall.  I promise to get my review up soon so that you can see swatches and get more details, but seriously, this palette is so good.

Wet n Wild Blue Wants to be a Millionaire

I had forgotten how awesome Wet n Wild Blue Wants to be a Millionaire is.  As you can see, this bottle has been well-loved, but I hadn’t pulled it out in a really long time until this month.  It is very hard to capture on camera, but there are multicolored iridescent micro-glitters in the polish that make it sparkle like a treasure trove.  Wet n Wild’s Fast-Dry formula does indeed dry very quickly.  Blue Wants to be a Millionaire is on the sheer side, so two coats will still give you a visible nail line, but I kind of like that with this polish.  Three coats make it totally opaque.  For swatches, see this post.

theBalm Hot Mama Blush

I have been keeping it light and girly on my cheeks with theBalm Hot Mama Blush.  (It is still summer, after all.)  Hot Mama is a light peach shade with gold shimmer.  It is gorgeous, and flattering on so many different skin tones.  It’s in that NARS Orgasm family, but less pink and more peach.  The gold is definitely shimmer, not glitter, and leaves a healthy sheen, as opposed to a sparkle.  It is a beautiful blush.

Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment

If you saw my birthday haul, you know that I got the Fresh Sugar Lip Service set including the Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment.  I really like the Fresh Sugar line.  I find them so moisturizing and healing, and I love that subtle lemon scent.  The Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment is the clear one, so it is perfect as an overnight lip treatment.  My lips feel soft and supple from using this treatment.  It is more expensive than I like to spend on lip treatments, but it is wonderful.

NYX Lip Liner Pencils

For some reason I have been very interested in my lip liners lately, even though I’m not wearing a lot of lipstick.  I’ve been using the NYX Lip Liner Slim Pencils under glosses and balms to bump up the color.  The two that I have been reaching for the most are Ever and Auburn.  Ever is a mauve-toned, dark nude.  Auburn is a berry shade.  These are simple pencil liners, but they have a smooth formula that doesn’t tug and great pigmentation.

L’Oreal Glossy Balm Crayons

My final favorite that I can’t seem to get enough of is the L’Oreal Glossy Balms.  I reviewed them here, in this post.  I truly love the L’Oreal Glossy Balm formula, so much so that they stand out over the 50 million other balm crayons out there.  I have been wearing all three, but Vintage Rose has been a particularly good choice to go over those liners that I mentioned.  They are not super glossy, but they are extremely moisturizing.  I don’t think that they are limited edition, so be sure to pick up a couple when you see them.

Those are my favorites for the month of August.  My lips are going darker and I’m using cooler tones on my eyes.  I have also opted for boots instead of sandals on more than one occasion.  You know where my heart lies.  I know that there are still a good, solid three weeks left to Summer, and I hope that you make the most of them if you are a Summer lover.  What were some of your August favorites?  Are you still in full sun goddess mode, or are you transitioning to Fall like I am?  Let me know in the comments below.  I have big things happening in my life, and big plans for the Fall and Winter seasons.  How about you?  Are you looking forward to Fall?

Spotted: New Fall 2014 Collections from the Drugstore

It’s been over a month since I did my last “spotted” post, and there are plenty of cool new collections out at the drugstore.  I have a few of them to show you today, including Milani, Maybelline, CoverGirl+Olay, Sally Hansen, and Wet n Wild.  Some are limited edition, some are permanent, but all of the products are pretty interesting.  So, let’s get started.

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel

First up, we have the new Sally Hansen Miracle Gel nail polish.  SH claims that this 2 step method (polish and top coat) creates a real gel manicure, but without the lamp.  No curing process needed, and it is supposed to remove with normal nail polish remover.  Too good to be true, or true miracle indeed?  I’m not sure yet, but I will let you know.  There are 45 shades in the collection, and though this display didn’t have all of them, it did have a 2-pack with a polish and the top coat.  I am not loving the nearly $10 price tag per polish, but for gel lovers, this may be a great option.

Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow

I finally spotted the new Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow.  I am not sure what gel powder means, so here is what Milani has to say: “Rich, vibrant color that glides on in a single stroke, delivering a stunning multi-dimensional effect. What makes it a gel powder? Well, the formula starts as a gel and then is transformed by a special process into a stunning powder eyeshadow with pure color and power wear. The unique process allows you to blend this incredibly innovative, weightless formula easily with your fingertips to light up your eyes. Even more to entice: It can used wet or dry, resists creasing, and comes in satin matte, shimmer and iridescent metallic finishes. You just have to try this gel powder. It’s that different.”  There are 30 shades in this new permanent collection.

Maybelline Fashion Rocks

Next up is the Limited Edition Maybelline Fashion Rocks Live Fall 2014 collection. This collection celebrates Fashion Rocks which is an annual international charity fundraiser event that debuts on CBS on September 9th.  The Maybelline Fashion Rocks Collection is broken into four looks which include Indie Princess, Rock Goddess, Urban Attitude, and Sultry Siren.  The collection features repromoted shades for eyes and lips, but the Color Show nail polishes are new LE shades.

CoverGirl+Olay The De-Puffer

CoverGirl+Olay The De-Puffer Eye Concealer has a cooling metal tip in the squeeze tube to massage away the look of puffiness and dark circles.  With Olay Rejuvenating serum and cucumber extract, this could be a big hit for those with aging eyes.  I have more issues with fine lines than with puffiness or dark circles, so I may pass.  It does look promising, though.  If any of you have tried it, let me know what you think.

Wet n Wild Fall 2014 Limited Edition Megalast Matte Nail Colors

Lastly, we have Wet n Wild Fall 2014 Limited Edition Megalast Matte Nail Colors.  Wet n Wild has released three limited edition collections for Fall 2014.  There is a collection of limited edition matte lipsticks, as well as a collection of limited edition Coloricon 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes that my drugstore did not have.  But, they did have this display of Megalast Matte Nail Colors.  There are no repromotes in this display, and all six shades look fantastic for Fall.  That gorgeous navy blue is calling to me, especially at only $1.99, but I am trying to stick to my no-buy.  Still, these are pretty nice.

That’s it for this round.  I can’t wait to see what else pops up as we get more into Fall.  I feel like the drugstores around me get collections very late compared to other places.  But hopefully I can find the new limited edition collections early enough to show you so that you can get your hands on them if you want them.  More Fall displays should be on their way, as well as 2014 Halloween displays.  After that, my favorite time of year brings all of the Holiday collections.  Be sure to keep your eyes peeled when you are out and about because there will be a lot to see.  🙂

Big Drugstore Sales this Week 7/27-8/02

Sale Alert

I am just stopping in to let you know of some pretty good drugstore sales going on this week.  I don’t usually post about weekly drugstore sales because they are often Buy One Get One 50% off sales, and that’s not really that great of a deal.  But I always pay attention to Buy One Get One Free or 40% off sales, and that’s what I have to tell you about today.

First off, Rite Aid is offering a 40% off sale on Wet n Wild cosmetics and Fergie nail polish.  Rite Aid is also offering Physicians Formula as Buy One Get One Free.  This is a great deal because Physicians Formula can be really expensive for the drugstore.

If you don’t have a Rite Aid near you, there is a deal on Physicians Formula at CVS where you get $8 in extra bucks when you purchase two PF products.  Extra Bucks can be used like cash on anything in the store, not necessarily just beauty products.

Then at Walgreens, they are offering 40% off on Wet n Wild nail polish and 40% off on Maybelline cosmetics.  This is a great time to pick up the new Maybelline Nudes Expert Wear Palette.

No post tomorrow because it’s my birthday and I will be spending it with my sweetie.  Don’t forget to enter my current giveaway to win a free Derma MD Eliminate Eye Cream.  I hope that you are having a good one.  🙂

March Favorites, 2014

March Favorites

It’s the last day of March, so you know what that means.  It’s Monthly Favorites time!  For those of you who are new to the blog, Monthly Favorites are those products that particularly stood out to me and ones that I reached for over and over throughout the month.  March was weird, beauty-wise.  I was so sick with that stomach flu that lasted forever, so for two weeks I either didn’t leave the house or when I did, I didn’t wear makeup.  These favorites are pretty much from the first and last weeks of March because the middle was pretty sketchy.  I also have a non-beauty favorite to add at the end, because I have been absolutely obsessed!  So, let’ get into it.

BareMinerals Eyeshadow

I have really been enjoying my bareMineral eyeshadow.  The small duo came in my “All the Favs” set that I reviewed here.  It’s fabulous.  It’s a mini version (1 g) of the bareMinerals READY Eyeshadow 2.0 in “Epiphany” featuring A-Ha and Foreshadow.  I can’t get enough of that gorgeous taupe shade (A-Ha) that looks so beautiful that I can wear it alone and it seems that I spent way longer on my eyes than I actually did.  “Epiphany” is swatched on the top.  The bottom shadows are the bareMinerals READY Eyeshadow 4.0 in “The Soundrack”.  This quad is so me.  I love greens and golds.  These shadows feel like butter and blend so easily and smoothly.  They have a truly wonderful formula and I really recommend trying bareMinerals shadow if you haven’t already.

WnW Drinking a Glass of Shine

I’ve been reaching for my Wet n Wild 8-pan palette in “Drinking a Glass of Shine” (also known as “I Heart Matte”) for my eyeliner a lot this month.  I just haven’t been into pencil liners during March, so instead, I’ve been mixing the matte black and brown in this palette to line my upper and lower lashes.  Shadow liner isn’t always successful on the lower lash line- it really depends on your skin and how watery your eyes are.  But it’s really great on the upper lash line for a very defined, yet pretty natural liner look.  These shadows are so pigmented that a little goes a long way, and I don’t have to pack them on to get major impact.

e.l.f. Studio Mini Eyelash Curler

I am so glad that I recently got the e.l.f. Studio Mini Eyelash Curler because it’s exactly what I needed.  I’ve noticed in the last several months that my lashes are giving me issues.  I have very short, puny lashes that are increasingly curl resistant.  I used to be able to curl my lashes, but over the last six months or so, they just refuse to curl.  I also have smaller eyes, so I have a hard time maneuvering a regular eyelash curler.  I’ve been meaning to pick up a small curler for a while, but never got around to it.  I heard about the Shu Uemura one, but $25 seemed like a lot to spend on an eyelash curler.  Finally I placed an e.l.f. order for some of their new products (more on that later) and found the e.l.f. Studio Mini Eyelash Curler sort of by accident.  It’s about half (or maybe less) the size of a normal lash curler, so you curl your lashes in sections instead of all at once.  I can really get in there, no matter how short my lashes are, and hit the angles I need for maximum curl.  I love it.  There is a learning curve, and there was some pinching the first day or two, but once I got the hang of it, I have had no problems and am really happy with it.

e.l.f. Studio Cream Blush in Temptress

Even though Spring is here, it’s was still pretty cold during March, so I haven’t begun to use any self-tanner yet.  That means that I am still light enough to use the e.l.f. Studio Cream Blush in Temptress as a cream contour.  This is actually a really lovely shade for contour if you have fair or light skin.  Though it looks a little warm in the swatch picture, it is actually pretty neutral, so it works for cool-toned girls too.  It pairs really well with Too Faced Chocolate Soleil, which is cool-toned.  The blush has a smooshy, spongey texture, similar to the Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes.  They are lightweight and have a cream to powder finish.  Though I probably won’t be able to wear it for too much longer, I have enjoyed the light contour that Temptress has provided.

*Okay, so here’s a weird thing.  I just checked eyeslipsface.com and don’t see the e.l.f. Studio Cream Blushes anywhere.  I swear they were still on the website last time I checked, but I haven’t looked specifically for them in a while.  Does anyone know if they’ve been discontinued?  I hate recommending a product that you can’t get, but it never occurred to me that the blushes wouldn’t be there.*

Jenny Lawson, The Bloggess

My final favorite is actually a person.  I am completely obsessed with Jenny Lawson.  First, I found her book Let’s Pretend This Never Happened: (A Mostly True Memoir).  I loved it!  My husband and I both read it, and we both really enjoyed it and laughed a lot.  Then, I went to her blog thebloggess.com and I was sold.  (don’t be folled by the picture, it is in no way a beauty blog.)  Jenny Lawson is like Laurie Notaro when she was still funny, only with way more dead animals. (Yes, that is a dead mouse dressed as Shakespeare.)

Lets Pretend This Never Happened

If you enjoy irreverent humor and can handle mental illness and taxidermy, Jenny Lawson is totally wicked.  I would definitely check out the blog and read the preview chapters before buying the book because her humor is not for everybody and certainly not for the faint of heart.  But, she had me hooked by page 11 and I gleefully recommend that those who are not easily offended give her a chance.

So, those are my favorites for March.  Again, it was an off month.  I know that everyone has been clamoring for Spring, but I am going to miss the cold weather.  I am thrilled that winter stuck around so long.  I’m going to miss the cold when I move back to California.  I know that it’s a pretty short drive to the mountains if I miss the snow, but it’s not the same as seeing snow in your own backyard.  However I am excited to move forward, and to see where the next few months take me.  I feel like there are a lot of things in my life that are up in the air and I’m in a state of limbo, which is really stressful for me.  But hopefully I can get some answers soon.

How about you?  How was your March?  What were some of your favorite products?  Let me know in the comments below.

Have You Seen What’s New from WnW?

Continuing with posts that show new displays for Spring 2014, I’m bringing you what I’ve found from Wet n Wild.  I am personally not as impressed with the new additions to the Fergie Center Stage collection as I am with the new ColorIcon palettes, but that makes sense.  Wet n Wild is definitely aiming toward a younger crowd with most of their releases.  There are some cool new products, but the under 35 demographic will have the most luck with them.

Fergie Center Stage Spring 2014

I found a large Fergie Center Stage Spring 2014 display at Walgreens.  I haven’t used too many of the Fergie branded products in the past, but they definitely have a following.  There are some new products alongside some of last year’s releases in this display, so I broke it down for you so that you could get a closer look.

Fergie Center Stage Lip Stain and BB Cream

In this picture you have the new Vicious Varnish High Shine Lip Stains at the top with the new G.L.A.M. Maker BB Cream and one Take On the Day Mattifying Powder on the lower level.  The lip stains come in 10 shades, and claim to give an “irresistible high-shine pout with a blast of color.”  The new 8-in-1 BB Cream boasts to be a product that “hydrates, brightens, primes, conceals, smooths, evens tone, controls oil and protects.”  The Take On the Day Mattifying Powder looks like it may have been shoved onto the display by mistake, but there is a label and product info, so it is supposed to be there.  The Take On the Day Mattifying Powder is described as: “Light reflecting powder that enhances and prolongs makeup.”

Fergie Center Stage On the Edge Eye Pencil and Turn Up the Volume Mascara

For the eyes, new additions to the Fergie Center Stage collection are the On the Edge Eye Pencil and Turn Up the Volume Mascara.  The new On the Edge Longwearing Eye Pencils claim to be “versatile, creamy pencils in a forever lasting formula.”   I’m pretty sure that the Turn Up the Volume Full Blast Mascara is also new for Spring.  It claims to”turn your lashes on full blast with maximum volume and extreme length.”

Fergie Photo Op palettes and Shimmer palette with bonus items

Also part of this collection are some newly packaged Fergie Photo Op shadow palettes with bonus eyeshadow primer and Shimmer palettes with bonus kabuki brush.  I haven’t tried the shimmer palettes, so I don’t know how they are first hand, but I can say that the Photo Op palettes are terrible.  The eye primer isn’t bad, but it’s cheaper to just buy the primer by itself and forget the shadows entirely.  There are also false eyelashes and On the Edge Cream Eyeliner, which are not new for Spring.

Wet n Wild Coloricon Glitter Singles

Some non-Fergie items that are new are the Wet n Wild Coloricon Glitter Singles.  The display was pretty picked over but the new Glitter Singles come in shades Bleached (iridescent), Brass (gold), Spiked (silver),  Binge (purple),  Groupie (pink), Vices (red), and Distortion (blue).  The Glitter singles are cream, and look like they are kind of chunky.  There are also three new shades of shimmery eyeshadow singles in Cheeky (pink), Suede (blue), and Unchained (silver).  This collection definitely has a younger crowd in mind.

MegaRocks Glitter Nail Color collection

Here is a closer look at the shadow singles as well as the new MegaRocks Glitter Nail Color collection.  Wet in Wild is really pushing the glitter this Spring.  I am definitely a bigger fan of glitter on my nails than on my eyes and some of these polishes look pretty, though not necessarily unique.  Wet n Wild usually puts out good polishes with a quality formula, so if you are a fan of glitter polish you may want to check this collection out.

Wet n Wild MegaSlicks Balm Stains

I am actually pretty excited about this display that features the new Wet n Wild MegaSlicks Balm Stains, new Coloricon 8-Pan Eyeshadow Palette in Poster Child, and new Coloricon 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes.  Everyone has a chubby pencil lip crayon these days, and the MegaSlicks Balm Stains are Wet n Wild’s version.  I have never been a big fan of WnW lip products, but these MegaSlicks Balm Stains look really promising.  And I am happy to see another Coloricon 8-Pan Eyeshadow Palette in the line up.  If you are a color lover, Poster Child is right up your alley.

Wet n Wild Coloricon 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes

Speaking of color, one of the new Coloricon 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes is also full of bright colorful shades.  Here is a closer look at the palettes.  All except the brown-toned palette was in stock at my local Walgreens.  I am interested to see how these 5-pan palettes stack up.  Are they going to be the old WnW formula that we all know and love, or are they going to go by the way of the newer releases that have been sub-par?  I don’t know, but I really want to find out.

Those are quite a lot of products.  What do you think of the new Spring releases from Wet n Wild?  Like I said, I am excited about the MegaSlicks Balm Stains and the new Coloricon 8-pan and 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes, but that’s about it.  I am personally not too pumped about the additions to the Center Stage collection, but that’s mostly because I already have plenty of products like that and am not really in the market for more.  That’s just me, though.  Are you anxious to try any of these products?  Let me know in the comments below.

WnW LE No Neutral Ground Color Icon Eyeshadow Medley

No Neutral Ground Color Icon Eyeshadow Medley

I’m a bit late to the table with this post because the Wet n Wild In the Spotlight Collection has been out for a while.  But, this collection didn’t show up in my area until about three weeks ago, so since it is still in stores and many of you may not have gotten access to the collection until recently, I still wanted to show you some swatches.  There are three Color Icon Eyeshadow Medleys in this holiday collection, but the only one that I was really drawn to was No Neutral Ground.  From what I’ve read online, it was definitely the best choice.

Wet n Wild In the Spotlight Collection

Wet n Wild has been disappointing lately.  Their Fergie collection shadows and the Pop Art collection were nowhere near the quality that we have come to expect from the regular Color Icon line.  We know that WnW can do better, and it’s frustrating that they haven’t been living up their potential.  There were some Eyeshadow Medley palettes released in the Spring, but they were hit and miss.  I thought about skipping this round as well, but liked the shades in No Neutral Ground and wanted to give it a chance.  I’m glad that I did, because I feel like WnW is back with this palette.

No Neutral Ground Color Icon Eyeshadow Medley

No Neutral Ground contains eight shades.  The top three are sparkle overcoats.  You can use them as regular shadows, but they are designed to be more sheer and they are glittery.  The three middle shades are normal shadows with a satin shimmer finish.  They have decent pigmentation, not as good as the old WnW 8-pan palettes, but still good.  They aren’t quite as soft as the original 8-pan palettes, which is why they are slightly less pigmented, but that also makes them easier to work with.  There isn’t as much fall-out.  I’ve had no issue with them blending, and with a primer, they are bold and long-lasting.  The two shades on the bottom are matte shadow liners.  These two shades are fantastic.  Super creamy and pigmented, the formula is so good.  I’ve used them both in the crease and as liners, and they work equally well for both uses.

No Neutral Ground Color Icon Eyeshadow Medley

I have read several reviews of the other two Color Icon Eyeshadow Medley palettes from the In the Spotlight Collection and they haven’t been as positive as the reviews for No Neutral Ground.  They haven’t been all bad, but more of a mixed reception, whereas most of the reviews I’ve seen for No Neutral Ground have been positive.  It certainly seems that it’s the best of the three in the collection.  In the Spotlight is limited edition, so if you are interested in any of the palettes, you probably shouldn’t wait too long.  Though I do like this palette, I am concerned that the quality of Wet n Wild shadows simply isn’t as good as it used to be.  I hope that they have learned from the negative feedback that they have received from their 2013 offerings, and that this palette is an example that they will be heading back in the right direction for 2014.