Stephie Estie

Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip 2015 Review!

Sephora

Hi everyone!  I won this lip set from a giveaway hosted by the lovely Cat Forsley from My Lip Addiction and as you can imagine, I was thrilled.  So in time for the Sephora VIB sale, here’s the breakdown of the set along with my review.

Lip Set

This limited edition set comes with six deluxe-size lip products, though the Tarte lipstick looks to be full size, and retails for $25.

Sephora Collection Rouge Infusion The Neutrals in 19-Peony

This dark pink shade is gorgeous and has good staying power unless you’re eating or drinking.  It fades somewhat evenly though you’ll find you have to reapply so that it looks even.  It feels glossy at first but dries to a matte finish.

Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Coral Blossom

A nice bright and somewhat sheer coral color with a slight peppermint scent.  Personally, I love lipsticks that are creamy and moisturizing and this one fits the bill.  The lasting power is not long, maybe 2 hours, but I don’t mind.  As the name implies, these glide on like butter and feel comfortable.

Fresh Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment

You gotta love two in one products.  This hydrating lip balm has a rosy tint that gives you a polished look with minimal effort.  It also has sunscreen so that’s always a bonus.

Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Crème in Je T’Aime

My first Marc Jacobs lipstick and I have to say I do like this one.  The description states it’s ultra hydrating but I disagree.  It’s not super hydrating but not matte either so I would say satin.  The color is a beautiful rum raspberry that will last around 3-4 hours. Exfoliating lips is a must with this one but if you’re looking for the perfect shade for the holidays, I highly recommend this.

Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi Gloss 202 Sweet Pink

I was excited that this lipgloss was included in this set and was the first one I tried out.  Although the sheer pink color is pretty and the full pouted effect and shine it gives is amazing, the formula on this is super thick and sticky-not comfortable or appealing at all.  The applicator has a slit to allow precise application but I feel it’s more marketing than useful. Overall, I wouldn’t shell out money for this lipgloss.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lolita

The hype surrounding this gorgeous chestnut rose shade is real and warranted. After my unfortunate experience with this line shade in Outlaw, this shade is a dream and the staying power is great.  It lasted all most all day, even after eating.  Although it does begin to fade, it leaves behind a nice stain.  I apply a bit of balm underneath, although the formula doesn’t feel too drying, and make sure to exfoliate lips beforehand.

Swatches

L-R: Peony, Coral Blossom, Rose Tint, Je T’Aime, 202, Lolita

 

Sephora GML

I hope you found this post helpful. 🙂

Have you tried any of these?  What are your thoughts? 

Stephanie 

Sephora VIB Sale Wish List 2015!

sephora

Hi everyone!  How was your weekend?  I stayed home on Halloween, curled up watching movies including Hocus Pocus and I really enjoyed my low key night.  I was also leafing through the Sephora holiday catalog that arrived over the weekend, excited about the sale coming up in the next few weeks and decided to share my wish list with you. 🙂

burberry

Burberry Kisses Lipstick 

I already love their blush and have heard great things about their lipsticks.  Shades I’m interested include Nude Beige and Devon Sunset.

ysl

YSL Rouge Volupte 

Love the packaging on this- so sleek and elegant and they have a great selection of shades.  I’m eyeing Peach Passion.

 

hourglass

Hourglass Extreme Sheen High Shine Lip Gloss 

I’ve been browsing Hourglass products and two lip gloss shades have caught my attention: Child, a pale pink beige and and Fortune, a festive metallic golden pink.

kevyn aucoin

Kevyn Aucoin The Contour Book The Art of Sculpting + Defining Volume II

With the contouring craze, this looks like a nice set to have.

beauty blender

Beauty Blender Set 

I have yet to try out the Beauty Blender-yes, I can hear the gasps now but it’s just one of those things I’ve glossed over and thought of as unnecessary.  However, I might just bite the bullet and see what the fuss is all about and this looks like a good investment.

guerlain

Guerlain Rouge G Intense Shine Lipstick 

Okay, I will be shallow for a moment and say that I mainly want this lipstick because of the gorgeous packaging.  So pretty and luxe and touch ups would be a joy! Unfortunately, this comes with a hefty price tag so the discount might help.

 

dior

Dior Addict Fluid Stick 

Another great product that is constantly raved about.  Whisper Beige and Pandore are shades I am looking at trying.

Of course as is often the case, my mind will change and I may pick up something else entirely but I’ve been lusting over these for a while so we’ll see. 🙂

What items are you looking forward to picking up?

Stephanie 

October Favorites 2015!

October Favorites

Hi everyone!  With October ending this week, I’m sharing products I’ve been using religiously this month.  Let’s get to it!

Nest Fragrances Moroccan Amber Candle 

Nordstrom just opened up locally and when I saw they carried Nest Candles in store, I knew I had to pick this up. With exotic notes of Moroccan Amber, Star Anise, Sweet Patchouli, Bergamot and  Eucalyptus, this candle is just what you need to create a zen environment.

NYX Butter Gloss in Strawberry Parfait 

I received this NYX Butter Gloss in a Target Beauty Box and I must say it was love at first swipe.  It’s described as a fuchsia but has a sheer finish that on my lips looks natural with a slight tinge of pink. Great for everyday minimal looks or to top off lipsticks without competing with the shade underneath.

Renee Rouleau Skin Drink 

I had a chemical peel about 2 weeks ago and this was instrumental in keeping my skin hydrated.  It’s an oil-free, water based serum of hyaluronic acid that helps attract and retain moisture in your skin. Perfect for my combination skin as it delivers hydration without making me breakout.

Burberry Beauty ‘Light Glow’ Natural Blush in Earthy 

I know I’ve mentioned this blush before but it’s for good reason.  It’s an absolute staple in my makeup arsenal because it is versatile and is a joy to use with its smooth and buttery consistency.  Pairs well with natural or vampy fall looks.  You need this blush. Trust.

Swatches of the NYX Butter Gloss and Burberry Beauty Blush

October Swatches

What are your favorites this month? 

Stephanie 

 

 

 

 

Too Faced Brow Envy Kit Review!

TF Main

Happy Tuesday everyone!  I hope you all had a good weekend. 🙂 Can you believe we’re that much closer to a new month?  Crazy.

I finally have the review for the Too Faced Brow envy Brow Shaping and Defining Kit so let’s get started.

TF Inside

Description: ” Be envied for your perfect brows with Brow Envy, Too Faced’s fool-proof kit that will have you arches, defined and framed like a star.”

The kit comes housed in a black compact, complete with a mirror, setting wax, a cream highlight shade, brow powder duos, tweezers, a spooley, brush and angled brush.

Close Up

A close up picture.  The bottom left powder is Blonde while the bottom right powder is brunette.

Stencils

Also included in this kit are three eyebrow stencils and a Glamour Guide detailing how to use the kit.

Swatches

Top to Bottom: Setting Wax, Highlight, Brunette and Blond

Swatches of the shades.  You can’t really see the setting wax too well because it’s clear but it’s sitting on top of the pale pink highlight shade.

Pros

A complete set

Good for brow maintenance/touch ups

Duo powder shades allows you to customize a shade

Small tweezers are great for grabbing tiny hairs

Good for traveling

Cons 

Cream products make the kit messier

Stencils may not work for everyone’s eyebrow shape

Not versatile enough for every brow or hair color

Overall: I really do like this kit and it has pretty much all of the necessary tools to keep your eyebrows shaped and defined.  Personally, I would have preferred a powder highlight instead of a cream one just because I feel I can control it better.  Also, the stencils won’t be used because a) they don’t fit my eyebrow shape and b) my eyebrows are pretty wild so I have to get them threaded about every month. The eyebrow brush is a little stiffer than I would like but it’s not a deal breaker.  I would recommend this kit to anyone who has dark eyebrows but if you’re looking for lighter shades, Anastasia has a really great selection of powder duos as well.

A picture of me over the weekend using this brow kit.

 

TF BE

What’s your favorite product to keep your brows on point? 

Stephanie 

3 Important Tips for Halloween Makeup !

halloween makeup tools

With Halloween near, some of you may don to wear elaborate makeup for parties and why not?  Heck, one of my favorite costumes was when I dressed up as a Homecoming Zombie Queen, complete with blood and gore.  So. Much. Fun.  Here’s a few tips and tricks to ensure that the horror factor lasts only one night and doesn’t come back to haunt you days later….

Patch Test

ALWAYS conduct a patch test when trying out makeup, especially Halloween makeup as there are  many pigments and colors (red and blue) that can be irritating to the skin and cause an allergic reaction.  Prosthetics may or may not contain latex so make sure to ask questions about what is being used.  Also, if you’re going to use false lashes, keep in mind that many have adverse reactions to the adhesive so tread with caution and to be safe, ask for a P.D. test to be performed.

Primer

Applying a primer on the skin not only keeps makeup lasting longer but it also creates a barrier between the skin, allowing makeup to sit on top of that instead of the skin.

Double Cleanse

Facilitate the removal of makeup by using oil-based makeup wipes.  A personal favorite is Dermalogica PreCleanse Wipes which makes removing false eyelashes or stubborn makeup easier and doesn’t require harsh pulling or tugging of the skin. Follow up with your cleanser afterwards to thoroughly remove any heavy, thick layers of makeup that can clog pores and contribute to acne.

Have something fun planned for Halloween?  Let me know in the comments below! 

Stephanie 

 

 

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing October 2015!

Disclaimer: This post contains a referral link.

Oct PSMH

Hi everyone!  How was your weekend?  October’s PopSugar Must Have Box arrived over the weekend, prompting a great start. 🙂  Take a peek at what was included in this month’s box!

Inspiration behind this months box.

Oct Insp

 

The Honest Company Sea Salt + Sugar Body Scrub Lavender Vanilla, $17

Perfect for fall and winter, this body scrub has sugar and salt to slough away dead skin cells while shea butter and almond oils hydrate the skin.  Oh, and it is Lavender scented. 🙂

Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling, $25 

I’ll be honest and say I’m not really a fan of The Mindy Project but I did read the first chapter in this book and I found it entertaining.  This book is a collection of essays that “shed light on her less-than-perfect fit in Hollywood.”

It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product, $11.96

Considered a special extra, this leave-in product detangles, adds shine and stops frizz.  “It’s a 10 Haircare is a proud partner of Right Action For Women, helping provide advanced cancer screening to women.”

Belgian Boys De Stoopwafel, $1.59

The second item I tried after taking pictures and this was heavenly! It’s a caramel-filled waffle that’s a nice treat without being overly sweet.

Donation to Breast Cancer Awareness

“In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, PopSugar Must Have has made a donation to Right Action For Women.”

PS 1

Easy, Tiger Brown Paper Liquor Bag Set, $8 

Definitely not something I would have ever thought to purchase, these imaged paper bags can be used to carry your favorite bottle of wine to any special occasion.

Savvy Sleepers Luxury Satin Pillowcase, $36 

This 100% satin pillowcase “prevents sleep wrinkles, reduces hair breakage, and protects salon blowouts for the ultimate sleep experience.”  I do notice that sometimes I wake up with these creases on the side of my face with my regular pillowcases and since switching to this, they seem less pronounced.  More time will tell.

Richer Poorer Hope Slipper Socks, $15 

These pink slipper socks were designed by PopSugar to support Breast Cancer Awareness month. “Richer Poorer proudly supports the fight against breast cancer and the important work of Right Action for Women.” These will come in handy once things start cooling down over here but for now, these will be put away as the sight of them causes me to cringe with this hot weather.

Danielle Steven Monogram Gift Card, $40 

Another special extra, this $40 gift card can be used to receive your own monogrammed statement piece.

Also included were coupon codes: 20% off Savvy Sleepers and 30% off products purchased online from The Honest Company.

PS 2

If you’re interested in trying out PopSugar Must Have, click here and if you need an incentive, check out this sneak peek of what’s included in every November PopSugar Must Have Box.

Sneak Peek Nov. 

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie 

Skin Tip: Skin Cancer Reminder!

Happy Friday everyone!

Today’s skin tip hits close to home as my grandfather recently discovered he has skin cancer on his ear. Thank God it was caught on time but it serves as a reminder that we need to make sure we are covering all our exposed areas when applying sunscreen.  Our ears and the tops of our feet are commonly forgotten places but areas where skin cancer can develop.    It’s also a good reminder to have yearly checkups with a dermatologist for safety measures.

Wishing you a safe weekend! 

Stephanie 

A Little Thursday Motivation: Comparison is the Thief of Joy!

Comparison

Hello readers!  How is everyone holding up?

I wanted to share a quote today that lately has been on my mind and perhaps can help you too and it is regarding comparison.  With so many social media sharing platforms around, now more than ever it is easier to see what everyone else has been up to and all their accomplishments.  While you get to in a sense experience and share their joy, too often it can also feel overwhelming and downright depressing in comparison to yours.  You may be left wondering why your own life isn’t advancing as smoothly and fast as theirs. They look happy, without a care in the world.  And so it begins.  The doubting yourself.  A tinge of jealousy.  Forgetting the things you have accomplished because now it pales in comparison to what someone else did.  The feeling that perhaps you’re not good enough. Once this type of thinking starts settling in, it can be hard to shake off.

BUT, what we fail to see at times is that all of us have a different journey to take.  Some individuals are blessed to find their purpose/calling earlier while other people take longer.  Our paths may not be smooth but rare is the time that this is true for anyone.  We see the smiles shared but what’s not shown are the tears, the struggles, and the worries.  There are also different lessons we need to learn and if we look hard enough, we’ll find them and most importantly learn from them.  Sometimes the roadblocks in our path are actually blessings in disguise, meant to protect us from harm.  At other times, obstacles lead us to a different avenue we may have never encountered otherwise.

This life is a continuous cycle of ups and down and the situations we find ourselves in are not forever. Keep working on your goals and dreams but also have faith in God that you are where you are meant to be right now.  Instead of comparing yourself to what you aren’t, remember what you are.  Everyone has different gifts and talents to offer the world.  Don’t loose sight of that.

I hope this was helpful in case you are going through difficult moments. Just know that you’re not alone and that all of us experience this from time to time.  Keep going and don’t give up!

Now I want to hear from you.  Do you find yourself playing the comparison game? What do you do when you find yourself in this type of situation?

Stephanie