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December Birchbox Unboxing 2015!

December 17, 2015

Happy Thursday everyone! December’s Birchbox is in so let’s get to it! 🙂

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

For a few years now, I have been wanting to try out this dry shampoo so when I saw it was included, I was happy. After trying it though, I found it to be sticky and it doesn’t have a scent per se but still smells kind of odd, if that makes sense. Not my favorite dry shampoo yet but I’ll give it another shot. Bonus points for not leaving a white residue behind.

JUARA Coconut Illipe Hand and Nail Balm

This balm is supposed to hydrate, firm and plump hands as well as improve nails and cuticles and with this cold weather, it was good to put it to the test. It is fast-absorbing but not as hydrating sometimes as I would like. The scent reminds me of the beach so it’s a nice little pick me up during the afternoon.

Harvey Prince Sea Salt Texturizing Mist

I’ve seen this in multiple beauty blogs and I’m glad it was included. It has a citrusy, floral-esque scent and it gives a nice, beach-like texture to my ends when I flat iron my hair. Would definitely invest in the full size bottle.

Coastal Scents styleEYES Eyeshadow Palette- socialEYES

This month’s sample was an eyeshadow quad from Coastal Scents. While I love the colors, a vibrant turquoise and lovely gold, I will be giving this one away, hence the reason for no swatches.

theBalm Cosmetics FratBoy

You gotta love the packaging on theBalm Cosmetics and the nifty names they come up with. Again, the color looks lovely but I will also be giving this one away as I have colors that look similar. Although I am not entirely fond of the size of the sample-it looks like it would be an eyeshadow sample-my previous experience with their blushes was great so I am sure this is no different.

Overall, this was a good box filled with items I have been eyeing for a while now.

What’s your opinion on this month’s box?

Stephanie

Sephora VIB Haul + Mini Review 2015!

December 8, 2015

Hi everyone! Today I am sharing the items that I purchased for myself during the Sephora VIB 20% sale along with a mini review of each. There’s a few that I ended up returning but here are the final products I am keeping. Let’s get to it.

Face

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 in Nude

One of the best tinted moisturizers out there, I love using this for an everyday look. It’s light-weight, doesn’t make me breakout and with a variety of finishes and colors, you’re bound to find one that is perfect for you.

Sephora Collection Colorful Face Powder Blush in Can’t Stop Smiling

Once I saw the Sephora Collection Blush display, I knew I had to check them out. After swatching a few shades that caught my attention, I ended purchasing Can’t Stop Smiling. Described as a “salmon pink”, this blush has a surprisingly creamy consistency and is nicely pigmented. It does take a little bit of an effort to blend out but overall, I do like it and the shade is unlike anything I own.

Beautyblender The Original Beautyblender

Yes I finally gave in to the hype and I’m glad I did. This tool is a game changer when applying foundation as it helps it melt into skin for a seamless look. If you’ve been on the fence in trying this, I highly recommend that you do.

Sephora Blush Can’t Stop Smiling Swatch

Eyes

Too Faced Shadow Insurance

I had to pick up another tube of my favorite eye primer. I have used this for years and I honestly have no intention of straying. No other eye primer makes my eyeshadow last without creasing like this one. My only complaint is that with every new tube, the consistency comes out a bit oily and watery but it goes back to its normal creamy consistency after.

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling and Lifting Mascara

I bought the travel sized version of this mascara and I will be purchasing the full-size once I am done. I love the brush that comes with this which really does elongate and curl lashes. Best of all, it doesn’t irritate my eyes.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black

When looking for a liquid eyeliner that won’t budge, I don’t have to look past this Stila one. Hands down the best liquid eyeliner I have tried so far and another favorite item I’ve repurchased throughout the years.

Lips

Burberry Burberry Kisses Lipstick in Peach Delight No. 57

Ah, Burberry. After falling in love with their blush, I wanted to try out other items so I choose these two lip products. This lipstick is a nice pink-peach color that can be used as an everyday shade or paired with a more dramatic look. It glides on smoothly and it’s neither matte nor creamy but very comfortable to wear. Plus, the cap is magnetic and how awesome is the design?

Burberry Burberry Kisses Lip Gloss in Nude Beige No. 17

I always have room for a nude beige lipgloss and this fits the bill. The gloss isn’t sticky and it gives a nice glow to the lips without making them look overly shiny. I will be honest and say that the lasting power on this is not long-maybe about 2 hours- and it’s not the most moisturizing. But, I do love how pigmented this one is and it looks great on its own or over lipstick.

That’s it for this haul. Are any of these your favorites?

See you Thursday,

Stephanie

November Favorites 2015!

December 1, 2015

Happy December everyone! My, my, how time is just zooming by. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend. 🙂

Well, it’s the start of a new month which means it’s time to share items I have been loving all throughout November. Let’s get started!

Why Not Me? Mindy Kaling

Featured in October’s PopSugar Must Have Box, this was a fairly quick and great read. A humorously written account of her life and experiences, I especially loved the beauty advice she gives.

“Who is the beauty icon that inspires you the most? Is it Sophia Loren? Audrey Hepburn? Halle Berry? Mine is Nosferatu, because that vampire taught me my number-one and number-two favorite beauty tricks of all time: avoid the sun at all costs and always try to appear shrouded in shadows.”

I mean, there is some truth in that. 😉

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer High Volume Lip Plumper in Pink 001

After my horrible experience with the Dior Addict Fluid Stick-it made my lips burn and feel sensitized-I returned it and the sales associate gave me a sample of this. I took a liking to this immediately. I don’t think it plumped up my lips but the high shine, non-sticky texture is amazing. It’s light pink in color and feels slightly minty on the lips without being overwhelming.

Skinfix Ultra Rich Body Butter

A little body butter jar that came in my Target Beauty Box, I keep this on my nightstand as it deeply moisturizes my dry hands. It absorbs fairly quickly and doesn’t really have a scent. I love mixing this with my favorite lavender essential oil for a customized scent.

Kiko Cosmetics Smart Lipstick in 901 Natural Neige

I was ecstatic when a Kiko Cosmetics store opened up near me and one of the first things I gravitated towards was this lipstick. At a little less than $5, this lipstick is absolutely amazing. (Note: I found this one in the discount section of the store.) Creamy and the perfect nude color for me, this looks great worn alone or under lip gloss. Did I mention it is under $5? You need this.

Kiko Smart Lipstick 901

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Natural Tan 4.25

I received an array of Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick samples and immediately went to Macy’s to purchase the full size. The stick form makes this a breeze to apply and is perfect when you are on the go. It melts into moisturized skin and doesn’t look cakey on me plus the coverage can be light or built up.

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick Natural Tan

Deepa Gurnani Katie Crystal Headband

Another PopSugar Must have item, I love this headband! It is festive and perfect for the holidays. It doesn’t move once you put it on,which is an issue I have sometimes with other headbands, and is super comfortable.

That’s it for my favorites.

What were your favorites this month?

Stephanie

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing November 2015!

November 19, 2015

Hi readers! It’s almost the weekend again. Yay!

PopSugar Must Have Box also came in last weekend so here’s your peek at November’s box.

Gramr Gratitude Co. Exclusive Thanksgiving Postcard Pack, $10

A cute set of 5 postcards. They included a $15 coupon code to try out their quarterly subscription.

Tarte Cosmetics Beauty and the Box Eyeshadow in Apple of My Eye, $22

When I first saw we were getting a Tarte eyeshadow quad, I wasn’t too thrilled but after seeing the shades, it’s clearly the star of the box. Perfect fall and everyday colors. This is a new product from Tarte’s fall line that will soon be released.

Swatches of the eyeshadow quad. Top-Bottom: Gala, Honeycrisp, Caramel and Golden Delicious. I’m really loving Caramel.

West Emory Bingbo Set, $20

Pretty self explanatory. Not sure if I will keep this or gift it away but it’s a good idea for a rainy day.

Deepa Gurnani Katie Crystal Headband, $56

This festive headband seems to be a perfect fit for the holidays coming up.

Capri Mercury Jewel Box Candle in Rain, $18

I love candles and this one is no exception. Everything from the packaging, a recycled hand blown glass box with wooden lid, to the scent is lovely. Plus, it can be used as a keepsake box after the candle is finished.

Terrapin Ridge Farms Pecan Honey Mustard, $7.30

I must admit I love honey mustard and was happy to receive this. It’s gluten and dairy free and tastes a little bit like Dijon mustard. I couldn’t taste the pecans really. This can be used as a vegetable glaze, cheese pairing, sauce for pork tenderloin or roast turkey, or pretzel dip.

Another good box from PopSugar. 🙂

What’s your favorite item?

Stephanie

November Birchbox Unboxing 2015!

November 17, 2015

Hi everyone! How was your weekend? I managed to pick up a few items at Sephora plus I have some on their way so I will post on that later. I’ve also been battling a low grade fever so I’m a bit behind on comments/social media but I will get back to you. 🙂

Birchbox came in over the weekend so here’s a glance on what was included.

Malin + Goetz Grapefruit Face Cleanser and Vitamin E Face Moisturizer (sample)

This cleanser is said to help clear up breakouts and balance skins natural pH;the moisturizer has hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish skin. I haven’t had a chance to try these two yet.

LOC Vibrant Matte Lipstick in First Kiss

Birchbox has a new in-house brand called LOC. This month’s sample I choose was a lipstick that was curated by YouTube beauty star Tati Westbrook. It’s a matte pinky beige color that is so pretty but unfortunately doesn’t last long and definitely needs to be paired with lip balm or lipgloss so it doesn’t dry out lips.

LOC First Kiss

Montale Dark Purple

This fragrance sample has “notes of rose petals, geranium bourbon, and patchouli [that] sit on a woodsy base of gray amber, teak wood and white musk.” It smells a lot like berries and while I do like it, it’s not unique enough that would compel me to purchase the full size.

Parlor by Jeff Chastain Touchable Curl Cream

An “innovative formula [that] combines the siky texture of a serum with the light hold of a cream.” Another item I have yet to try but I do find that I always need to layer hair products with these type of creams to really hold my curls in place and prevent frizz.

The Beauty Crop Lighting Crew Highlighting Cream

I had seen this in other bloggers’ pages and I was excited when I discovered this was included. It smells like pineapple, (yum!) and really does add a glow so a little dab will go a long way. It can also be mixed with body lotion to give your body a festive and luminous glow. Note: Make sure to blend this quickly when you use it.

The Beauty Crop Highlighting Cream

Overall, this box was okay. I wish the lipstick was formulated as more moisturizing but the highlighting cream was a great choice and made this box.

What are your thoughts on this box?

Stephanie

Kat Von D Lolita vs NYX Soft-Spoken!

November 10, 2015

KVD vs NYX

Hi readers! How was your weekend?

Liquid lipsticks have taken center stage and today I am comparing NYX’s Soft Spoken, which is a pretty spot on dupe for Kat Von D’s Lolita. Take a look!

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lolita

Pros

Long-lasting

Minimal dry down time

Applies evenly

Color can work well for a variety of skin tones

Excellent color payoff

Cons

Pricey at $20

Accentuates fine lines

Overall: I really do love this shade but I’ve found that other shades from this same line don’t work so well for me. The application feels creamy and you get opaque color in one swipe. I find this fades pretty evenly and I have a bit of a stain left over even after eating and drinking. Exfoliating is a must beforehand but it’s worth the money.

NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in Soft-Spoken

Pros

Budget friendly at $7

Applies evenly

Great color payoff

Good wear time

Color can work well for a variety of skin tones

Cons

Slow dry down time

Accentuates fine lines

Semi-tacky feeling

Overall: This is a good inexpensive alternative to KVD’s Lolita. It has great color payoff in one swipe and applies evenly. Application feels velvety but then turns into a tacky feeling that never quite goes away. I’m assuming this is the reason why it’s not that long lasting. Exfoliating lips beforehand is a must and I find applying a bit of balm underneath makes

Top to Bottom: Lolita and Soft-Spoken

Swatches from both lip shades. As you can see they are almost identical. Kat Von D is a bit darker with a little more brown.

Have you tried these? Which is your favorite?

Stephanie

Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip 2015 Review!

November 5, 2015

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.

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.

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

I hope you found this post helpful. 🙂

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

Stephanie

October Favorites 2015!

October 29, 2015

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

What are your favorites this month?

Stephanie

Too Faced Brow Envy Kit Review!

October 27, 2015

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

Stephanie

PopSugar Must Have Unboxing October 2015!

October 20, 2015

Disclaimer: This post contains a referral link.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie