Blushing Noir

Redirect Info

2012-01-25T07:48:00.001-05:00

In a few seconds, you will be directed to my new domain http://www.blushingnoir.com - please use the search box there to find the page you're looking for, as all content has been moved over.

Use the widgets to the right to follow via Blog Lovin, Networked Blogs, and GFC - Thank you!

Updated - Moving! Important Announcement!

2012-01-23T15:30:00.000-05:00

Updated to add - I've added a new GFC box to http://www.blushingnoir.com - It's not letting me move the old one over, so anyone who followed me here through GFC is going to have to refollow (hopefully!) at the new website. I'm crossing my fingers that Google doesn't do away with GFC, because I like it better than the others. If they do, the only way you'll be able to follow posts is through Bloglovin (which is actually pretty great, a lot of sites have it now and at the end of every day you get an email with the posts in it) and/or Networked Blogs

*********

Well, I finally sucked it up and bought a dot com.

You can now find me at http://www.blushingnoir.com

What this means:
I will no longer be posting through blogger. Unfortunately Blogger isn't allowing Google Friend Connect to be used on any other sites in a few months. Right now I have bloglovin and networked blogs as follower widgets on blushingnoir.com. I've been trying to transfer over GFC but it's not letting me do this. I'm still researching, but if you want to be sure to get the latest posts and giveaway happenings go to http://blushingnoir.com and follow via bloglovin or networked blogs. This will be mandatory for the next giveaway.

The HUGE February 2000 Follower Giveaway is STILL HAPPENING. It will just be at http://blushingnoir.com.

All new posts can be found at http://blushingnoir.com. The blogger account will remain active, but nothing new will be posted here. I urge you to go to the new site and check it out!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me or post here!

STEAL HEARTS WITH DURI

2012-01-22T09:13:00.001-05:00

Love is not only in the air, but right at your finger tips with Duri Cosmetics nail shades this Valentine's Day!

Whether it be hand holding, a romantic foot massage, a hot date or girls' night out, Valentine’s Day shines a spotlight on hands and feet.

Duri Cosmetics has all the right sweet and sassy shades to give them a little love and steal hearts. Whether he “puts a ring on it” or not, nails will look their best with Duri Cosmetics Romantic shades.

Help your readers find an eye- catching polish from Duri Cosmetics to love this Valentine's Day. Think Sweetheart- a gorgeous bright, shiny red; Almost in Love- pretty pale pink; Cupid Rules- a clear, glossy, bright pink; Hot Date- bright fuchsia to grab hisattention; or Every Day is a Valentine- sheer saucy red.

And for those gift-givers, mix 'n match three hues to create a classic, romantic Valentine's Day set with Duri's Custom Gift Sets. (Please note gift sets go perfectly with a box of chocolate.)

Other perfect Cupid-kissed lacquers:

Forget Me Never- Hot Pink

Breakfast in Bed- Soft classic pink

Cranberry Crush- Romantic deep red

All Duri nail products are completely safe, environmentally-friendly and free from DBP, TOLUENE and FORMALDEHYDE.

Make Duri Cosmetics your editorials' perfect match! All Duri Cosmetics products are available nationwide at salons, spas and specialty stores, as well as online at www.duri.com. Individual bottles retail for only $5 each and Custom Gift Sets retail for only $15 each.

Korres QUINCE Lip Butter Glaze Swatches and Review

2012-01-21T19:20:00.000-05:00

The Korres Pomegranate Lip Butter Glaze was such a hit that I decided to add another shade to my lip arsenal. The Quince shade seemed to be rather popular, so I went with that one. I had to order sight unseen because my local Sephora doesn't carry the Korres lip products, and Quince was the safest bet.

What the Sephora Website has to say about Korres Lip Butter Glaze:

What it is:
A line-smoothing, buttery lip glaze in a tube.

What it does:
This lightweight, soothing lip butter imparts vibrant and shiny color, smells utterly delicious, and comes packaged in an easy-application tube.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan

Sephora is the exclusive beauty retailer for this product.
Size: 0.34 oz

Quince actually had less pigment than what I thought it would, but makes a nice, neutral lip for your every day running around. I love the Lip Butter Glaze because they're so demure and easy to apply. They keep your lips moisturized and shiny.

Korres Lip Butter Glaze retails for $14.00 and can be purchased at Sephora.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information please see my disclosure policy.

Week of January 21, 2012 - The Beauty Blogazons Roundup

2012-01-21T10:45:00.000-05:00

Perilously Pale- Lise Watier 2012 Aquarella Collection Round-up and Face of the Day
Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom- The one with Julep Molly
Midnight Manicures- Friday 13th - My 13 favorite manicure and pedicure products from 2011.
Polish Insomniac- China Glaze Aquadelic - Comparisons and Dupe Search!
Blushing Noir- NARS Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow Swatches, Review and EOTD - Spring 2012
The Beauty Delicacy- Winter Proof Your Skin
Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful – Zoya Fleck Effect Swatches January 2012
Creatively Yours By Ro- Top 25 Under 25 Sephora
The Kracked Kat- The Best Christmas Present...EVER!!! Unicorn Puke
Glitter.Gloss.Garbage- Nicki Minaj OPI Swatches

Too Faced NATURAL FACE PALETTE Swatches and Review - Spring 2012

2012-01-21T09:47:00.000-05:00

Too Faced has come out with some serious winners this season. For Spring 2012 they have shown us some beautiful new sets and amazing new palettes. One of the new and more intriguing palettes from this brand is the Natural Face Natural Radiance Face Palette.

What the Sephora website has to say about the Too Faced Natural Face Natural Radiance Face Palette:

What it is:
This multitasking face palette contains the six essentials that you need to create a warm, allover glow anywhere you go.

What it does:
This thoughtfully selected assortment of natural, sun-kissed shades delivers a healthy, no-makeup look that is irresistibly sexy. The mirrored palette features a universal luminizer, brightener and concealer in neutral shades, cream and powder cheek options, along with a golden-bronze veil for instant radiance.

What else you need to know:
Too Faced's versatile face collection can be used with your favorite complexion products, applied alone to naturally conceal and highlight, or for quick touch-ups. Three, how-to lesson cards demonstrate application techniques and color placement.

This set contains:
-0.28 oz Bronzing Veil
-0.1 oz Crème Blush
-0.11 oz Powder Blush
-0.05 oz Concealer
-0.06 oz Luminizer
-0.05 oz Brightener

I am in love. Enamored. Each of these products is a beautiful shade, and a breeze to apply. I used the same face products underneath, foundation and powder... but the placement of these products truly gives your face a brand new and flawless look. DH even commented on how nice my face looked without me asking lol that NEVER happens.

The blush shades swatch rather dark, but since you're just patting them on lightly (for the cream shade, I suggest using two fingers rather than a brush) the result is a nice flush.

The only con I see from this palette is I don't think that it will be very favorable on darker skin tones. The shades are listed as "neutral" but the concealer and brighten are pretty light. Hopefully the popularity of this palette will take off and Too Faced will make a few other variations.

Another great feature is the included three cards that give you a general idea on how to use the six face items in this palette. Looking at the cards, I was initially put off. Do not be scared of these cards! After I tried the first one, Day Glow, I was amazed at how my face looked. I think that the products do an excellent job themselves, but the application DOES make a difference. There are also two other cards to make you look Classic, or Supermodel.

The Too Faced Natural Face Natural Radiance Face Palette retails for $39.00 and is currently available at Sephora, Ulta, and TooFaced.com. Sephora doesn't have this marked as limited edition, thank God, so hopefully it'll be around for a long time!

Chanel LA RAVISSANTE, LA RAFFINEE, L'EXUBERANTE, and LA FASCINANTE Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick Swatches and Review

2012-01-20T21:23:00.000-05:00

Confession. I didn't buy ANY of these when they launched. I was actually at the Chanel counter on the day they unpacked the shipment box. The MA was wearing one and it just looked crazy bad. Dry and fading... just not a pretty picture. I vowed to stay far, far away.

This past week I did a Chanel.com order and one of the samples was a card of 4 of the Rouge Allure Velvet Lipsticks - La Ravissante, La Raffinee, L'Exuberante, and La Fascinante. So, I exfoliated the lips like crazy and got to swatching. It actually wasn't as bad as I expected!

What Neiman Marcus has to say about Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick:

Elevating matte to a new elegance, this next-generation, non-drying matte lipstick glides on lips with intensely rich color and a sumptuously soft, velvet matte finish.

(L-R: La Ravissante, La Raffinee, L'Exuberante, and La Fascinante)

While still not my favorite of the Chanel Lipstick line, the Rouge Allure Velvet Lipsticks are no where NEAR as dry as I was anticipating. I thought my favorite on would be La Ravissante, but La Raffinee has captured my heart. These lipsticks sink into your lips and leave a bit of a stain, so if you have a gloss handy you can check up on yourself and not look all battered and dry. I loved applying the shades with the finger, because it left a nice, smooth tint effect, rather than just glopping on a whole lot of color.

La Ravissante

La Ravissante (translation - the beautiful) looked peachy on the card, but swatched on the arm almost like a melon and peach mix. On the lips it definitely hit off as more peach, though it might be more melon on someone with a deeper lip pigment.

La Raffinee

La Raffinee (translation - the refined) was my fave of the four. The easiest to pull off with it's rosy pinkness. Classy, yet flirty. I actually expected it to be a bit darker on the lip, however was happy with the result.

L'Exuberante

L'Exuberante (translation - the exuberant) is a very bold and pigmented hot pink. I actually liked this better just pressed lightly onto the lips, but swatched a bit more heavily above to show off the true color and pigment. If you love this color, but the WOW factor has you holding back, try just dabbing it onto your lips and pressing together. It's a nice tinge of pink that'll give you that shade you want for Spring, but won't make you feel like you need to constantly be questioning yourself.

La Fascinante

La Fascinante (translation - the fascinating) is a red with pink undertone. I actually thought this would wear more fuchsia on me, but it actually ending up being a nice cherry red. Like maraschino cherries.

The next time I'm at the counter I'm going to give these a go and pick up one or two. I feel bad that we got off on the wrong foot and had such a horrid first impressions meeting. Does it need a gloss paired with it? Absolutely. Maybe you can get away with just the lippie here, but I can't, even after heavy exfoliation. Are they beautiful and worth getting at least one? YES.

Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipsticks retail for $32.50 and can be purchased at your local Chanel counter or at Chanel.com. All shades are marked on the Chanel website as Limited Edition.

Neova Skin Care - Your 3 Must Haves for Winter Skin SOS

2012-01-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

Neova is an award winning brand of skin care formulated with Copper Peptides and DNA repair.

From the Neova Facebook Page:

Neova is the first clinical skin care company to bring real innovation to the photo aging category by introducing Copper Peptide Complex technology products. These award-winning formulas target photodamaged skin, help to visibly repair it and revolutionize the way women care for their skin. Neova is among the first skin care brands to make the association between DNA damage and premature skin aging and provides complete, continuous and optimized correction with DNA Repair and Copper Combination Therapy skin care.

Okay, so I had no idea what photodamaged meant. Looking it up, just in case you don't know either, let's get ed-u-ma-cayted... "Photodamaged = The structural and functional deterioration of sun-exposed skin, resulting in wrinkling, roughness, altered texture, discoloration, acral lentigines, mottled hyperpigmentation" Yep, that's me!

I have a three part system from Neova Skin Care here to share with you - Creme de la Copper, Day Therapy SPF 30, and DNA Total Repair.

DNA Total Repair

Meant to be used in the evening, DNA Total Repair ($99.00 for 1.7 fl. oz.) is used to speed up recovery from previous damage that the sun has caused, and to help prevent further damage from occurring. It is also used to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, as well as discoloration.

Creme de la Copper

Creme de la Copper ($117.00 for 1.7 fl. oz.) is to be used daily after AM and PM cleansing to revive dry skin and reduce the signs of photoaging.

Day Therapy SPF 30

Day Therapy SPF 30 ($85.00 for 1.7 fl. oz.) is to be applied daily before leaving the house to help defend against UVA/UVB damage. This multi-purpose product also protects against winter UV radiation. Did you know there was a new FDA mandate for skin care in 2012? I didn't, but this product is compliant.

Overall, after a few weeks of use there are subtle changes, especially in the redness of my cheeks. I can't speak so much to the wrinkles aspect, since most of my wrinkling is happening around the eyes, but I think this is a great system to prevent any other wrinkles from showing their ugly little faces.

The creams appear thick, but aren't heavy on the skin. Once smoothed on, the product sinks in quickly and feels smooth. I am also in love with the pump (shown below) for dispensing the creams. It's a firm pump that shoots out just the right amount of product.

My skin can be rather sensitive (I can easily get hives and itchy face), and I didn't have any issues with any of the three products that I tried. There is a slight odor to the products, which fades after you apply.

Neova Skin Care items are available for purchase at nextderm.com. Shipping is free for orders over $50 and be sure to sign up for the newsletter to be privy to promotions. The links under the pictures will take you directly to the product pages, where you'll be able to find ingredients as well as more in depth descriptions and user reviews.

Introducing MAC Lightfully New With Marina Bright Formula - Official Product Information and Photos

2012-01-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

MAC

Lightfully New

with Marine-Bright Formula

LIGHTFUL MARINE BRIGHT: A NATURAL
UPGRADE TO THE ORIGINAL LIGHTFUL, OUR UNIQUE
MARINE-BRIGHT FORMULA FEATURES THREE
SEAWEEDS HARVESTED FROM THE WORLD’S OCEANS.
NOURISH, HYDRATE, DE-OXIDIZE AND FORTIFY THE SKIN
AGAINST KEY AGGRESSORS – EXCESS MELANIN AND
FREE-RADICALS – WHILE PROGRESSIVELY SHIFTING THE
COMPLEXION TOWARD A MORE EVENLY PIGMENTED RADIANCE.
ADDING TO THIS TRIO’S POTENCY: OUR OWN SUPER-DUO
CHARGED WATER, LIGHTFUL CLEANSER, ESSENCE, MOISTURE CREME,
AND SOFTENING LOTION. YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT!

M·A·C LIGHTFUL CLEANSER - $25.00 U.S./$30.00 CDN

M·A·C LIGHTFUL SOFTENING LOTION - $30.00 U.S./$36.00 CDN

M·A·C LIGHTFUL ESSENCE - $40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN

M·A·C LIGHTFUL MOISTURE CREME - $40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN

M·A·C Lightfully New with Marina-Bright Formula

Available February 23, 2012 in the permanent collection

Introducing MAC Vera - Official Product Information and Photos

2012-01-19T14:58:00.000-05:00

MAC VERA

Brilliant butterflies, flashy florals and gorgeously geometric graphics…A colourful collaboration
between M·A·C and the artist known worldwide as Vera, who merged fine arts with linens, murals,
textiles and silk scarves in her punchy, painted patterns. Now in shades plucked straight from her
most lavish prints, M·A·C Vera embraces the luxe, lighter-than-air spirit that delivers the kind
of startling, look-at-me statement that defines what it means to be an instant classic. Limited Edition.

CRUSHED METALLIC PIGMENT X4 - $34.00 U.S./$40.00 CDN
ALOHA

Lantern Light Metallic gold/bronze
Campfire Rich copper (frost)
Shifting Sands Metallic Champagne (frost)
Aloha Dirt cocoa brown (frost)

STRAWBERRY PATCH

Star Crystal Pink Champagne (frost)
Rose Light Metallic Yellow Pink (frost)
Strawberry Patch Light blue pink (frost)
Moon Rose Bright Dark Pink (frost)

BUTTERFLY PARTY

Butterfly Party Bright Lilac (frost)
Desert Cloud Deep blue purple (frost)
Rain Drop Metallic teal (frost)
Moss Garden Metallic silver green (frost)

PEARLGLIDE INTENSE EYE LINER - $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN
Lord It Up Bronze with pearl

Industrial Periwinkle grey

Designer Purple Iridescent violet

Undercurrent Teal with pearl

Petrol Blue Deep navy with pearl

Black Swan Black with pearl

Black Line Black with gold pearl

NAIL LACQUER - $16.00 U.S./$19.00 CDN
Midsummer’s Dream Pale pink lilac (creme)

Play Day Pale milky coral (creme)

PEARLMATTE FACE POWDER - $28.00 U.S./$33.50 CDN
Sunday Afternoon Clean bright pink/bright clean fuchsia/soft pale pink with white pearl

Flower Fantasy Pale coral with slight gold pearl/slightly blue pale pink/soft pale salmon

PLUSHGLASS - $19.50 U.S./$22.50 CDN
Fashion Fanatic Creamy pale pink

Pretty Plush Extra soft pink with white pearl

Confetti Bright orange coral with soft pearl

On A Holiday Bright pink with blue pearl

Butterfly Dream Mid-tone violet with blue pearl

M·A·C Vera Available February 9, 2012 through March 1, 2012

Introducing MAC Mineralize Perfectly Finished - Official Product Photos and Information

2012-01-19T14:37:00.001-05:00

MAC

Mineralize Perfectly Finished

LOOK WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MINERALIZE! OUR OUTSTANDINGLY POPULAR M·A·C MINERALIZE FOUNDATION/LOOSE GETS A NEW LOOK AND WITH THE 188 DUO FIBRE BRUSH SETS OUT TO CREATE ITS FAMOUS NATURALLY RADIANT FINISH. FOR THOSE WHO HAVE A SPOT, A BLEMISH, A DARK CIRCLE TO HIDE, THERE’S NEW MINERALIZE CONCEALER. GOES ON SMOOTHLY, DISCREETLY, WITH A TOUCH OF MOISTURE. SHADE PALETTES GO FROM LIGHT TO DARK. FORMULAS MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL AGES, ALL RACES, ALL SEXES. YOU’LL FIND THESE TWO ARE A GREAT MATCH.

MINERALIZE CONCEALER - $19.00 U.S./$22.50 CDN
NW15, NW20, NW25, NW30, NW35,
NW40, NW45, NW50, NC15, NC20,
NC30, NC35, NC42, NC45, NC50

MINERALIZE FOUNDATION/LOOSE - $30.00 U.S./$36.50 CDN
Extra Light, Light, Light Plus,
Medium, Medium Plus, Medium Dark,
Medium Deep, Dark, Dark Deep

BRUSH - $34.00 U.S./$41.00 CDN
188 Small Duo Fibre Face Brush

M·A·C Mineralize Perfectly Finished Available February 16, 2012 in the permanent collection

Introducing Shop MAC, Cook MAC - Official Product Photos and Information

2012-01-19T14:21:00.001-05:00

SHOP, MAC

Try and Buy a delicious, delovely, delectable, divine, degorgeous, de-with-it, degroovy assortment of Eye Shadow x 4 in wearable brights perfect for Spring. Treat yourself to Lipstick in heavenly hues, mouthwateringly Kissable Lipcolour and Cremeblend Blush. This Spring, shop ‘til you drop with a tongue-in-cheek collection that elevates the everyday into the extraordinary.

Whether it’s detergent or diamonds, produce or Prada, everyone loves to shop, shop, shop!

LIPSTICK - $14.50 U.S./$17.50 CDN

Innocence, Beware! Light yellow pink (cremesheen)

Naughty Sauté Bright pepto pink (cremesheen)

Watch Me Simmer Bright pink-orange (amplified)

Quick Sizzle Bright pink (matte)

Dish It Up Berry pink (lustre)

Runaway Red Rich red-blue (satin)

KISSABLE LIPCOLOUR - $19.00 U.S./$22.50 CDN

Flaunting It Grey mauve

So Vain Muted dirty coral

Scan-delicious Blue fuchsia

Woo Me Light pinky nude

Enchantée Light blue pink

CREMEBLEND BLUSH - $20.00 U.S./$24.00 CDN

Optimistic Orange Bright coral

Florida Bright coral

Restores Dazzle! Rich plum

EYE SHADOW X4 - $38.00 U.S./$45.00 CDN

SHOP & DROP

Hypnotizing Frosted greyed mauve (frost)

Sugar Snack Light pink (matte)

Power Boosted Violet (veluxe pearl)

Shop & Drop Deep blue (satin)

CALL ME BUBBLES

Call Me Bubbles Light tan (satin)

Fresh Daily Orange (frost)

Brash Frosty reddish copper (veluxe pearl)

Full of Flavour Coral (matte)

COLOUR ADDED

Laundry Daze Light yellow (satin)

Colour Added Bright yellow (veluxe pearl)

Self-Serve Deep grey (satin)

Pre-Packaged Muted turquoise (veluxe pearl)

COOK, MAC

Ladle on an extra helping of foodie fun with an appetizing assortment of temptingly tasty Tendertones, nearly black Fluidlines, Studio Careblend/Pressed Powder, Opulash Mascara, two Brushes and nosh-worthy Nail Lacquers in fun, bright shades sure to satiate even the most discriminating gorgeous gourmands.

Cook M∙A∙C has spring’s no-carb, no-calorie recipe for kooky, kitschy, kitchen kouture in savoury shades for Eyes, Lips and Nails.

STUDIO CAREBLEND/PRESSED - $23.00 U.S./$27.50 CDN

Medium Soft creamy beige

Dark Deep caramel

FLUIDLINE - $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

Midnight Snack Soft black

Wholesome Blackened brown

Added Goodness Blackened mauve

OPULASH MASCARA - $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

Bad, Bad, Black Black

TENDERTONE LIP BALM SPF 12 - $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

Hush, Hush Sheer gold with yellow gold pearl

Purring Sheer tangerine with pearl

Hot ‘n’ Saucy Soft cherry red

Tread Gently Soft lime green with yellow pearl

NAIL LACQUER - $16.00 U.S./$19.00 CDN

Al Fredo Bright acid green (creme)

Salad Dressed Midtone dirty aqua (creme)

Kid Orange Coral (creme)

BRUSHES

211 Pointed Liner - $18.00 U.S./$21.50 CDN

129SH Powder/Blush - $34.00 U.S./$41.00 CDN

SHOP M·A·C, COOK M·A·C Available February 9, 2012 through April 5, 2012

Too Faced Gift Card Winner Announced!

2012-01-19T13:28:00.000-05:00

The winner of the $100 e-gift certificate to TooFaced.com is Brielle!!!!

Congratulations!!!!!

Thank you thank you thank you to everyone who has supported BlushingNoir! It's because of all of you that I continue to blog and love what I do! The award of being Too Faced Beauty Blogger of the Month Level 1 for January 2012 is a HUGE honor for me, and wouldn't be possible without so many fans of beauty!

There is still time to enter the January Giveaway to win 2 blushes from Benefit! And keep a lookout for the February Giveaway, which will also serve as a 2000 Follower Giveaway! So it'll be a big one and will be open Internationally!!

If you have time, please check out the Giveaway Tab above and enter some awesome giveaways! You can't win if you don't enter!! ;)

Physicians Formula I HEART ROSE and I HEART NUDE Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Lipsticks Swatches and Review - Spring 2012

2012-01-19T09:29:00.002-05:00

How cute are these?! Physicians Formula is good at the charming products and packaging to draw you in, but does the product live up to the claim of Glow & Mood Boosting?

Previously, I've reviewed the Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush in Natural and in Rose. These blushes with their whimsical little heart shapes were all the rage in the makeup world, and seemingly hard to find. They are still around today (though I'm not sure if they are still available in these particular shades) and some are featured on the display with the Glow & Mood Boosting Lipsticks.

I Heart Rose

I Heart Nude

(I Heart Rose, I Heart Nude)

I Heart Rose

I Heart Rose is a bright and rosy, cool pink. The perfect pink pucker for Valentine's Day!!

I Heart Nude

I Heart Nude is a beautiful peachy shade (it makes me think of candy, for some reason) but looks nothing like you think it would by the name. For nude, you think tan colored, light, mocha... not peach. But it's a nice alternative for the warm toned who can't pull off I Heart Rose.

These shades both went on smoothly, though the tube is big, so you need to be aware of placement so as not to go over your lip line. The formula is light and not sticky. If you don't want it, you won't need a lip gloss over top.

Overall, even if you're not a fan of Valentine's Day, these lipsticks are something to check out. They are WAY cute. While I'm pretty positive that these lipsticks won't chemically raise your mood, it sure does make me happy and fluttery to look at the little hearts on top of the lippies.

PSA - don't JUST buy them for that little heart. The I Heart Nude one disappeared almost completely after 2 uses and the I Heart Rose is fading fast after 2. Apparently they don't go all the way down. ALSO. Pay attention to how you cap the lipstick. I all but destroyed I Heart Nude because I put it on a little backwards.

Physicians Formula Happy Glow & Mood Boosting Lipsticks retail for $8.99 each, but when I bought mine at Ulta they were buy one get one half off =D I've seen these at every local drug store around here, so if you haven't spotted them yet, don't fear! They'll be there soon!

Juicy Couture TROY SURRATT 24 KARAT COUTURE LIPGLOSS and DEBORAH LIPPMANN HERE COMES THE QUEEN Nail Polish Set Swatches and Review

2012-01-17T23:35:00.000-05:00

This is my 1,000 post!!! EEEE! *celebratory dance* Okay, now that we have that out of the way.... =D

Over the holidays, Deborah Lippmann got with Juicy Couture and made some festive sets. I had actually only thought there were trios of nail polish released, but on an after holiday jaunt to the mall I saw a set (hidden, mind you, buwhahahha!) of a flashy golden Deborah Lippmann top coat and some sort of champagne bottle lookin' thing.

Upon further investigation I saw the champagne bottle looking thing was in fact a Troy Surratt 24 Karat Couture Lip Gloss (which the salesgirl told me was totally clear, you'll see later she was wrong). Seeing as how the name didn't ring a bell, I decided to educate myself by searching the interwebs.
Please enjoy this short bio on Troy Surratt from Teen Vogue:

Troy Surratt spent his childhood dreaming of beauty and fashion—and of getting out of the Midwest. After high school, he picked up and moved to New York City to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology. In between classes and studying, Surratt found time to assist renowned fashion designer Randolph Duke. But the gowns on the runway didn't draw him in as much as the behind-the-scenes creations of the makeup artists, so Surratt shifted gears to focus on beauty. Shortly thereafter, his work caught the attention of makeup legend Kevyn Aucoin, further catapulting Surratt's career. Surratt went on to help launch beauty brand Tarte, act as a spokesperson for online retailer beauty.com, and work with dozens of starlets along the way, from Zooey Deschanel to Charlize Theron. But this fast-paced lifestyle hasn't altered his simple yet fearless philosophy: "At the end of the day, it all washes off. So why not go for it?" —MAURA LYNCH

I assume this is the right bio since the other Troy Surratt I found is working for the U.S. Air Force Academy.

On the the photos and review!

(outdoors, with flash)

(outdoors, no flash)

This is such a gorgeous set to look at, it's no wonder that it jumped out at me, even while hidden.

As you can see, the Troy Surratt 24 Karat Couture Lip Gloss is not clear on the swatch, but rather a beautiful, shimmery gold. On the lips, you can see the shimmer a BIT, but not so much that it's garish. I found the gloss to be thick and moisturizing, but not sticky.

Deborah Lippmann Here Comes The Queen is likely my favorite polish ever (that I've tried) from her line, and quite possibly in my top 10 polishes of all time. The base is clear with random sized gold flakies throughout. It was easy to apply and no flakie maneuvering was necessary. I used one coat of this polish over top of China Glaze Fuchsia Fanatic for the swatch photos.

The retail on this set was $48.00. But then it was on sale for $23.99. And then it was another 40% off I believe (I paid like $15 something with the tax?).... so if you can possibly still find this at Juicy Couture, it's likely to be super cheap, since it's been a bit since I picked it up.

Tarte GIFTED AMAZONIAN CLAY SMART MASCARA Swatches and Review

2012-01-17T17:46:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not know, I love a giveaway. I love to enter them almost as much as I love to host them. With a stroke of luck, I won three Tarte products from one of Bloomin Beauty Blog's Blogiversary Giveaway!

This week I'll also be showing you the 2 blushes, but for today we'll focus on Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Mascara!

What the Sephora website has to say about Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara:

What it is:
A reparative and volumizing mascara containing Tarte's biggest beauty breakthrough, Amazonian clay.

What it does:
This amazing mascara delivers a 406% increase in lash volume and long-term reparative, rebuilding, and strengthening benefits with each swipe giving you instant results and better lash health. Just as it intuitively restores hydration and texture in skin, Amazonian clay intuitively hydrates and replenishes dry and brittle lashes to prevent fallout. High performance natural™Amazonian clay performs all day by absorbing oil to balance mascara and keep product in place for flake-free longer wear. It lends itself to deepen pure color pigments creating a volume-boosting formula with higher intensity and truer pure color. The result is healthier and more voluminous lashes that won't ever flake or transfer, naturally. After daily wear, lashes are intact, healthier and stronger. This mascara prevents lash loss and promotes lash health.

What else you need to know:
Tarte gives back and so can you: with every gifted mascara purchase, you are helping support the Tarte-sponsored sustainable-harvest cooperatives in the Amazon.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Fragrances
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates
- GMOs
- Triclosan

Research results:
91% of subjects reported healthier lashes after use.
Size: 0.24 oz

The eye shadow used in this photo is L'Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow in Iced Latte.

Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara is pretty darn amazing. The above eye swatch is only ONE coat. I got a lot of nice natural curl and lengthening with this mascara. Though it wasn't very thickening, I found it a great mascara for daily and natural use.

The packaging for the mascara wand is rather bulky, but didn't hinder me from using easily. The wooden tube definitely stands out from my other mascaras!

Tarte Gifted Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara retails for $19.00 as is available at Sephora and Ulta.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

China Glaze DANCE BABY, ELECTRIC BEAT, and FUCHSIA FANATIC Nail Polish Swatches and Review - ElectroPop

2012-01-17T15:44:00.000-05:00

China Glaze

ElectroPop

Brightening up a rather bleak Winter season, China Glaze ElectroPop delivers vibrant shades for your tips! This collection features 12 polishes, and I'm excited to able to share three of them with you - Dance Baby, Electric Beat, and Fuchsia Fanatic! I am hoping my Sally's gets these SOON so I can bring you a few more. I checked last night and they weren't there yet and no go at Ulta today either. I'm keeping my eyes peeled!

Dance Baby

Dance Baby is a bubble gum barbie pink creme. It was a little patchy in 2 coats, which had me nervous, but a third coat handled that little issue. The color is bright and fun!

Electric Beat

Electric Beat is a gorgeous periwinkle cream which was opaque in 2 coats. It applied like a dream and I had no issues what-so-ever!

Fuchsia Fanatic

Fuchsia Fanatic is a lively fuchsia pink creme. This one was actually opaque in one coat, but I applied two just to make sure it all looked even on camera. Lately I've been "over" fuchsia just because I've seen so much of it, especially over last Summer, but this particular one is simply stunning!

I can't speak to the whole collection, since I only have three shades right now, but I am really impressed with these three creme shades!

ElectroPopwill be available February 2012. Individual shades retail for $7; 6 piececollections retail for $42.

Official Press Release

OPI Walks Red Carpet at Golden Globe Awards!

2012-01-17T14:35:00.000-05:00

Former wrestler and actress Stacy Keibler walked the 69^th Annual Golden Globe Awards red carpet with George Clooney on her arm and OPI nail lacquer in Did You ‘Ear About Van Gogh? on her hands. This new nude, which complemented Keibler’s classic look, is part of the Holland collection, launching in February for Spring/Summer 2012.

Laura Linney, nominated for Best Actress in a TV series for her role in The Big C, paired her purple-hued dress with the jewel-toned OPI nail lacquer Congeniality is My Middle Name, a limited edition shade from the Miss Universe partnership.

***via Getty Images

Stila PEACOCK Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner VS. Urban Decay COVET 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil Swatches and Review

2012-01-16T15:38:00.000-05:00

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Peacock was included with this months Birchbox as a full sized item. Full sized items only very randomly appear in Birchbox, but when they are there it's always a good one.

What the Sephora website has to say about Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner:

What it is:
A color-rich, vibrant, easy-to-use liner with staying power.

What it does:
Obsessed with Smudge Pots? You'll go crazy for Smudge Sticks! This highly pigmented, waterproof eye liner glides on to deliver intense, vibrant color with staying power. Soft, smooth, and easy on the eyes, Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner creates a high metallic, sultry, inky intensity that lasts.
Size: 0.01 oz

Peacock (vibrant teal sheen) is not only a gorgeous shade, but actually DOES stay on! This liner is incredibly soft and easy to use. It doesn't last particularly well on the waterline, but it's perfect for those occasions when you just don't have a chance to make sure your liner isn't migrating down your face. Based off of the description from Sephora, if you like the Smudge Pots this is basically the same thing, but in stick form.

While testing Peacock, it got me thinking about my fave Urban Decay liner - Covet. I use Covet for a lot of looks but have never swatched it to refer back to. Peacock reminded me of Covet, but once they were swatched side by side I saw they were completely different. Peacock is more of a blue, and Covet is more teal. What they DO have in common is that they're both beautiful shades!

(Stila Peacock, Urban Decay Covet)

Urban Decay Covet 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil is the stuff dreams are made of. Ever since I learned of my sensitivity to MAC Pearlglide liners I was in search of a dupe for Undercurrent. The closest I've found was Urban Decay Covet. I use it quite a bit for a color liner if you read through my FOTD or EOTD posts. If you adore shades such as this, it's imperative that you check it out!

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner retails for $20.00 and Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil retails for $18.00. Both are available at Sephora and Ulta. You will get much more product from the Urban Decay (0.04) vs the Stila (0.01), but they are both excellent products.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

Dior PINK TRENCH 257 Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Lipgloss Swatches and Review

2012-01-16T08:37:00.000-05:00

Well, I got played. In the new Dior Spring display at Nordstrom sat 3 Lipgloss. 3 came out with Spring, so I didn't think anything was off. The one was Party Lilac, reviewed here, and the other was Pretty Rose. The third, Pink Trench #257, was the one I picked up. I remembered the third being a Dior.com exclusive, but sometimes Nordies will get exclusives, and sometimes press releases can be wrong. It being in the display I automatically thought it was part of Spring and the Dior MA didn't correct me, so I bought it.

Pink Trench is NOT part of Spring 2012 for Dior, but it is a rather pretty shade and my decision to buy was based off of me swatching, even though for this trip I was trying to focus on picking up only Spring items.

What Sephora.com has to say about Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss:

What it is:
A flash-plumping lipgloss with a dazzling finish.

What it does:
Straight from the runway, new Dior Addict Ultra Gloss features a featherweight formula with a flash-plumping, "spotlight shine" effect. Hyaluronic spheres keep lips smooth and moisturized, while mirror-like micropearls reflect light in all directions for a dazzling finish. The package is tall and sleek, with a Lucite top that mirrors the nano-spotlight effect. The precision brush applicator makes for effortless, perfect application every time.

What else you need to know:
An exclusive "Spotlight Shine" complex features glass-like micro-marbles of varying sizes, which multiply light tenfold to illuminate lips like nano-spotlights! The nano-spotlights reflect light in every direction like a kaleidoscope, to multiply and maximize shine—all while delivering a sheer wash of catwalk color.
Size: 0.21 oz

Even though Pink Trench isn't an official part of the Spring 2012 launch, it is a very pretty shade and was a good filler gloss for the empty slot that the Dior.com exclusive made.

Pink Trench is sheer with a slight pink tint and has multi-colored mini shimmers. There is little to no stick and no gritty feeling from the shimmer. The shine gives your lips a nice, full appearance.

Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss retails for $27.50 is available at Dior counters nationwide as well as at Sephora.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

Evan Rachel Wood wears NARS at the Golden Globes

2012-01-15T20:41:00.002-05:00

EVAN RACHEL WOOD WEARS NARS AT THE 69TH ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES

Evan Rachel Wood at the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards, who is nominated for Mildred Pierce.

Makeup by Toby Fleischman for NARS Cosmetics

Inspiration:

"Sometimes the stars just align (pun intended) and tonight with nominee Evan Rachel Wood, her look came together so organically. Of course with a Gucci Premiere gown such as hers, it was all about the dress so we wanted to keep the make up clean and soft.

When I saw the new NARS Spring collection, it was as if the products were created specifically for this look! We had so much fun getting ready for the big day. We rocked out to some of our favorite tunes (Lykke Li), ate some yummy snacks (cookies of course) and most importantly laughed!"

The Look:

Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow (new for Spring 2012) was the exact gilded gold and bronze we wanted to create a soft metallic eye that would pick up the accent of the feathers. Then we used Almay One Coat Nourishing Mascara on the lashes to finish the eye (ok maybe more than one coat!).

To keep the rest of the face feminine, the new NARS Gaiety Blush (new for Spring 2012) was amazing for a sheer flush of pink on the cheek along with a swipe of good-old standby NARS Angelika Blush to add a bit of shimmer.

NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil topped off with Como Larger Than Life Lip Gloss gave Evan a soft mauve pink lip to complete the look.

Piper Perabo wears NARS Cosmetics at the Golden Globes

2012-01-15T20:39:00.003-05:00

PIPER PERABO WEARS NARS AT THE 69TH ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES

makeup by Troy Surratt for NARS Cosmetics

Inspiration:

"The look is very ethereal. It’s dewy and glowing with a gorgeous sparkly pink lip, which was the perfect look to complement her bold dress. For me, it was a classic approach with a subtle balance of attention paid to all points of the face."

The Look:

We started with Cle de Peau La Crème to prep her skin as it’s something she uses on the show and day to day. Her foundation was NARS Sheer Glow Foundation with Cle de Peau Concealer to cover any imperfections.

On her eyes, we dusted the shimmery icy pink side of Douce France Trio Eyeshadow (new for Spring 2012). We created a thin, barely-there line of black along her entire lashline using the Nuits Blanches Eyeliner Stylo. To get the precision, we placed the Push Eyeliner Brush to the ink of the stylo, and applied a thin line from the inner corner to the outer corner, growing slightly thicker at the outer corner, but not extending past the corner. We used Larger Than Life Lengthening Mascara on her lashes for definition. Brows were filled in with Jodhpur Eyebrow Pencil to make them appear more dense. To set the pencil, I applied Shiseido Translucent Brow Shaper.

On the apples of her cheeks, using a Yachiyo Kabuki Artisan Brush, we created warmth with Gilda Blush. It was the perfect blush shade at the intersection of peach meets pink without any shimmer.

We created a pinky-beige lip by first lightly defining with Rosebud Lipliner Pencil, filling in with with Frivolous Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil, and applying Baby Doll Lip Lacquer just to the center of the lips. This creates a light-reflecting affect for a fuller pout on the red carpet.

Too Faced MATTE EYE SHADOW COLLECTION Swatches, Review, and Eye Looks

2012-01-15T09:38:00.002-05:00

As I went on the hunt to find the Too Faced recently launched Spring Collection, I came up zero. Ugh. I really love to see things in person if I can, so I was pretty sad. Suddenly, I noticed on the Too Faced display that they had put out a tester of the newish Matte Eye Shadow Collection and ONE palette left to actually purchase. Hmmmm... I'm iffy with my mattes. It's hard to find ones that are smooth enough that they don't apply super patchy. Upon swatching in store, I was impressed (and obviously others were too since there was only the one left to buy), so I took the new Matte Eye Shadow Collection home to play with.

What Sephora has to say about the Too Faced Matte Eye Shadow Collection:

What it is:
A nine-piece collection of matte eye shadows in warm and cool tones.

What it does:
These cashmere-soft matte shadows are velvety in texture, allowing you to play with fresh, modern looks. The silky formula is easy to blend and offers gorgeous color payoff. How-to lesson cards offer step-by-step application instructions for creating modern matte eyes in minutes.

This set contains:
- 3 x 0.07 oz Eye Shadows in Tufted Suede (soft tan), Velveteen Bunny (ivory), Fresh Linen (pale pink)
- 6 x 0.03 oz Eye Shadows in Chinchilla (light warm brown), Coffee Bean (dark brown), Pebbles (gray), London Fog (deep blue), Vintage Violet (violet mauve), Midnight (charcoal gray)

(L-R: Tufted Suede, Velveteen Bunny, Fresh Linen, Chinchilla, Pebbles, Vintage Violet, Coffee Bean, London Fog, Midnight)

(L-R: Tufted Suede, Velveteen Bunny, Fresh Linen, Chinchilla)

(L-R: Pebbles, Vintage Violet, Coffee Bean, London Fog, Midnight)

The Matte Eye Shadow Collection is a fabulous addition to the Too Faced line of brilliantly priced, coordinating eye shadow sets. In this collection you will receive NINE shadows as well as three cards to help you create "the look". The shadows in this palette are ridiculously soft and blendable for mattes and are very nicely pigmented. I had such an easy time with application and little to no fall out, so it would be totally safe to apply after your foundation and powder.

It is really nice to see some blue shades and purple in this palette. So often with matte palettes they'll stick to the usual creams, browns, and black... this one steps out of the box and does it well.

A huge, huge love is that this palette comes complete with the three little how-to cards that give you ideas on how to use each line. Of course, you don't HAVE to use them this way, but it makes for a nice and easy eye that you don't have to think about. Plus, I don't have to type out what I did for each look, because you can just read the card lol

Lets Start off with the "Day" Eye:

Liner - The liner used was the Coffee Bean shadow from this palette, since they wanted it smudged around the lash line. It looks like you could also use a black liner to amp it up.
Mascara - Estee Lauder Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara

Now, the Classic Eye:

Liner - Chanel Noir Le Crayon Kohl
Mascara - Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara

Finally, my personal fave, the Fashion Eye:

Liner - Bobbi Brown Caviar Ink Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Mascara - Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara

The Too Faced Matte Eye Shadow Collection retails for $36.00 (a $73 value!) and is available at Sephora as well as at TooFaced.com

Speaking of Too Faced... did you enter to win the $100 gift card?? You only have until January 18th to get your entries in!!! This one is US only, but the Giveaway tab at the top of the page has some awesome giveaways listed that are open to ALL!

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

January 2012 Birchbox Photos and Thoughts

2012-01-14T15:11:00.004-05:00

The January 2012 Birchbox was pretty awesome! It contained a full size product and several other samples I was definitely loving. This Birchbox was all about Clarity:

~ Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Peacock (FULL SIZE!)
~ Clark's Botanicals Smoothing Marine Cream
~ FIX Malibu Immaculate Complexion Smoothing Serum
~ Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal
~ Larabar Mini Bar in Chocolate Chip Brownie
~ Birchbox Magnet

The Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Peacock was the shining star of this month's Birchbox. It's a full size item and my cousin was actually just telling me at Christmas that this was her favorite liner. I didn't swatch or review it for this post because I plan on doing a separate post for it, since it was a full sized item.

Clark's Botanicals Smoothing Marine Cream is an exfoliating moisturizer with glycolic acid. I tried this on the back of my hand since a warning on the back states to never apply this to red or peeling skin. Since I have a cold now and my whole nose area is red and peeling I thought applying it to my hand was a better idea. I liked how this made my hand feel, it was nice and smooth after application, and I do sometimes experience break outs, so the glycolic acid is a definite bonus.

FIX Malibu Immaculate Complexion Smoothing Serum smells AWESOME. I'm a little stuffy but can still catch a hint of the aroma. You're to apply it to clean, dry skin. A little goes a long way and it leaves your skin feeling great and smooth like baby powder. This is something I'd absolutely buy a full size of, if I had an extra $125 to throw around lol

Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal is a creamy concealer that corrects, covers and protects your skin. As a concealer this worked nicely. I can't speak to the correction aspect, since it is just a sample and I haven't used it more than once.

The Larabar Mini Bar in Chocolate Chip Brownie (pictured below) was a "Lifestyle Extra". It's seriously disgusting. I have tried a Larabar before in Cashew Cookie (see Influenster Voxbox post) and while Chocolate Chip Brownie wasn't THAT bad that I spit it out, I didn't eat anything past the first bite. It tastes like cheap chocolate and nuts (which I'm not a fan of) and then has a bizarre raisin aftertaste. I don't know if I'm just not hitting the jackpot on the flavors of Larabar that I've gotten, but they are just tasting like crap... and they don't look too appetizing either... I'm going to try and keep this classy, but if you've ever changed a diaper you know what I'm talkin' about.

Overall, this months box was TOTALLY worth it. The liner alone retails for $20 and it's something I was absolutely interested in checking out. Based off of this box, I will continue my subscription with Birchbox into February.

Side note - NEW Birchbox Members also got a Zoya Nail Polish this month. It pays to be a newbie sometimes!! ;)

Wanna sign up for Birchbox? (Click for referral) If you like what you see go to the website and fill out the form. It's just $10 a month (free shipping too!) and you get some cool stuff, tho I will warn you, you're going to get stuff you hate as well. All in all, for the $10 it's worth it. I love getting mail! haha

***Disclosure - I buy my own Birchbox, but the link posted in the above paragraph does give me referral points which I can use toward product on the site. Once you sign up for your own Birchbox, you'll also get a referral code to send out to others and get some points of your own ;)

NARS Bilbao Lipstick Swatches and Review - Spring 2012

2012-01-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

With all of Francois NARS' Collections, I love how each piece has a story behind the inspiration. It's not just a NAME. Bilbao Lipstick from Spring 2012 is "...named for the
Basque region of Spain, which has been revitalized by the Frank Gehry–designed
Guggenheim Museum."

The lipsticks having a story make them more interesting. Like you're wearing a piece of history rather than just a color on your lips.

Bilbao (shimmering topaz, $24.00) is a rosy nude, semi-frosty lipstick. The shimmer is extremely subtle. While this lipstick isn't super moisturizing, it doesn't dry out your lips either (it's listed as a Satin formula under their website). The shade is something I normally gravitate towards, because it can be worn neutrally or with a smokier look.

Bilbao is great to wear alone (as shown above) or with a coordinating gloss (try NARS Como Larger Than Life Lip Gloss!).

Available:
January 15, 2012 at narscosmetics.com
Official Press Release

CHINA GLAZE ELECTROPOP Product Information and Photos - SPRING 2012

2012-01-13T15:51:00.001-05:00

Los Angeles, CA - (January 2012): Where heavymetal meets rocker chic, China Glaze® introduces the Spring 2012 collection, ElectroPop. Inspired by all things girly,edgy and fun, the 12 shades of ElectroPopbring out the inner rock star in all. For flash and glam this spring, ChinaGlaze® hits the stage in style!

ElectroPop Shades include:

Kinetic Candy – Touch the sky in light blue crème

Electric Beat –Periwinkle nails for a wink worthy performance

Aquadelic – Pool blue for nighttime gigs and daytime fun in the sun

Gaga For Green – Green lacquer for the girl craving the limelight

Sunshine Pop – Shine in the spotlight in bold yellow

Make Some Noise – Rock the mic in tangerine

Wicked Style – Party cocktail tropical punch

Fuchsia Fanatic – Fuchsia pink for the rocker diva in us all

Gothic Lolita – Steal the show on girls night out in seductive purple

Dance Baby – Hit center stage in cotton candy pink

Sweet Hook – Blow a kiss in dreamy lilac

Techno – Glitter confetti polish for a dazzling topcoat finish or all over finger tip bling

ElectroPop is alsoavailable in:

*6 Piece Collection of “Brights”: Techno, Aquadelic, Sunshine Pop, Gaga for Green, MakeSome Noise and Wicked Style

*6Piece Collection of “Lights”: Fuchsia Fanatic, Dance Baby, Electric Beat, KineticCandy, Sweet Hook and GothicLolita

*12 Piece 3D Counter Display

*36 Piece Rack

ElectroPopwill be available February 2012. Individual shades retail for $7; 6 piececollections retail for $42.

China Glaze is free of DBP,toluene, and added formaldehyde. China Glaze nail lacquers are availablethrough salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide. For moreinformation, visit: www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze on Facebook andTwitter: http://twitter.com/ChinaGlaze

China Glaze is a divisionof American International Industries.

About American International Industries

For nearly 40 years, AIIhas been the leading manufacturer and worldwide distributor of innovative,quality beauty and skin care products for men and women. Our productlines include Ardell, Andrea, Body Drench, Bye Bye Blemish, Checi, China Glaze,Clean + Easy, Clubman/Pinaud, Duo, European Secrets, EzFlow, Fright Night, Gena,GiGi, Gypsy Lash, IBD, Jeris-Lustray, No Tweeze/Micro Tweeze, 'N Rage, Prolinc,RAW, Seche, SuperNail, Surgi-Care, Waterworks, Winning Nails, Woltra,Woody’s, and Youthair. For more information, visit our website: www.aiibeauty.com.

NARS Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow Swatches, Review and EOTD - Spring 2012

2012-01-13T10:27:00.001-05:00

For Spring 2012 NARS has given us a break from pastels and created Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow. While it's fun to see the bright shades, it's a bit of a relief to get something a little different that is still new to the season.

Paramaribo ($34.00) has two metallic shades of brass and bronze. The brass side swatches extremely golden but shows hints of green when applied to the eye. Almost like a tarnished brass. The bronze size flashes the brass under the brown making it a fun shade to use alone or with another coordinating color.

I love this duo. The pigment is great and the shades are easy to use. With more than half of NARS duos the average user couldn't wear both shades comfortably together. That is not the case with Paramaribo. They look great together, and you could mix it up several different ways. I had fun playing with this one, and hope you like the eye look I put together!

For this EOTD I applied UDPP then the brass shade all over the lid and put the bronze in the crease. I lined with Chanel Brun Le Crayon Yeux and smudged some more of the bronze side of the duo over top of that. To finish I used Estee Lauder Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara.

Available:
January 15, 2012 at narscosmetics.com
Official Press Release

Chanel INIMITABLE INTENSE MASCARA Multi-Dimensionnel Sophistique Swatches and Review

2012-01-13T07:45:00.003-05:00

I'd been interested in trying out Chanel's Inimitable Intense Mascara since it released. There is a lot of hype about it, and I love the Chanel brand. Even though I have a mascara that I love - MAC Plushlash - (and so far haven't found anything better than) I'm always getting that urge to test out the latest and greatest.

What Nordstrom has to say about Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara Multi-Dinemsionnel Sophistique:

This technologically advanced formula builds on the success of the original mascara, delivering dramatic effects with a unique brush. The result is a more intense lash look, with the same easy application. Lashes appear longer, thicker and more curled, yet each lash, even the finest, is still precisely separated—without clumping, spiking or flaking. Colors featured in the Le Regard Sophistique collection include Brun, Purple and Noir.

Inimitable has a great looking brush. One that you'd think would separate well. On me, it did not. This mascara DID curl and lengthen well, but I think I may have heard TOO much hype and expected more than a mascara could offer. It's also sometimes hard to review a sample of a product, though in this case the actual brush part seems true to full size. I was also thinking that the samples might have sat around awhile and may not be sealed as well as a full size before you purchase and use it.

A huge plus is that this mascara didn't flake on my cheeks or flop product around during application. It also did not smudge throughout the day.

If you work with the wand, and wipe excess product off before applying, your lashes won't clump as much, but for the price point I don't really want to have to WORK at it. The swatch above is only two coats, I was afraid to go for three.

Since online reviews seem to be rather good I may try a full size in the hopes that it will work a little better (I'll compare it with this post). I think it's just hard to believe I don't love a mascara from one of my favorite brands.

Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara Multi-Dinemsionnel Sophistique retails for $30.00 and is available at Chanel counters nationwide.

NARS Douce France Trio Eyeshadow Swatches, Review, and EOTD - Spring 2012

2012-01-12T17:31:00.000-05:00

Keeping with the pretty in pastel pink trend for Spring 2012 NARS has released their sixth Trio Eyeshadow!

Douce France is my first NARS Trio Eyeshadow. I remember when the first (Okinawa 2010) and second (Calanque 2011) ones released, all of the shades were linked together in the same pan. While this was beautiful to look at, my OCD went... NOOOOO! Thankfully, when the next released, they were all three in separate pans, and it's been that way since. Huzzuh!

Douce France Trio Eyeshadow ($45.00) has three shades - a shimmery icy pink, shimmery rose-petal pink, and matte deep rose. The shimmery icy pink was smooth and satiny, not as shimmery as you'd expect, especially when the word "icy" is involved. The shimmery rose-petal pink wasn't easy to get pigment from, but it popped well when built up and blended easily onto the eye lid. The matte deep rose is the most divine matte shadow that I've ever tried. Extremely pigmented and buttery, this raspberry red hue is a fave of mine for this Spring season.

For the EOTD using this Trio I put the shimmery icy pink all over from lash line to brow, the shimmery rose-petal pink on the lid, and the matte deep rose on the crease and outer V. For the first picture I used the matte deep rose wet as a liner, but thought it made my eyes look too sickly, so for the second shot I traced over that with Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Uzi. For the mascara I used Estee Lauder Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara.

Available:
January 15, 2012 at narscosmetics.com
Official Press Release

Kaley Cuoco Wears "Lucky" OPI/Nicole by OPI Manicure on Red Carpet!

2012-01-12T15:02:00.004-05:00

Last night, The Big Bang Theory’s Kaley Cuoco hosted the 2012 People's Choice Awards at L.A.'s Nokia Theatre, wearing her now trademark “lucky” manicure with two-toned nails styled by OPI celebrity manicurist Beth Fricke. Cuoco wore OPI Nail Lacquer in Bastille My Heart on all her nails, except on her two ring fingers, which were painted with Nicole by OPI Nail Lacquer in Follow Me on Glitter.

Cuoco also sported a similar two-toned OPI manicure at the 2011 Emmy awards; this look was hailed as one of the evening’s best accessories to walk the red carpet.

*via Getty Images

Bobbi Brown CAVIAR INK Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Swatches and Review

2012-01-12T09:56:00.000-05:00

Hands down, my favorite product from Bobbi Brown is the Long-Wear Gel Eye Liners. I remember my first purchase of them years ago of Ivy Shimmer Ink and Black Mauve Shimmer Ink. If you've been around for a few months, you may remember my review of the Caviar/Gold Dual Ended Eye Liner. A product I loved, but that I didn't have a good reaction to as a contact lens wearer. Determined to find a similar shade to the Caviar side of the Dual Ended Liner I turned to the Caviar Ink Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner.

What Sephora has to say about Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner:

What it is:
A best-selling, award-winning formula that makes lining your eyes like a pro easy.

What it does:
Get the precision of a liquid liner with the ease of a gel-based formula. The eyeliner glides on smoothly and precisely, then quickly dries down to a long-wearing, water-resistant finish.

What else you need to know:
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is an Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner.
Size: 0.1 oz

Caviar Ink (deep black-brown) is a muted black, and not exactly the color I was looking for. Caviar the pencil was also described as a deep black-brown, but had more of a taupe grey aspect to it's color.

That being said, this is a great liner for every day. You can pair it with just about everything and its formula is up to par with what I remember my other two Long-Wear Gel Eyeliners from years ago being. It's headed into my daily makeup routine arsenal, and there it shall stay.

All-in-all, still a win, but not a home run. I will find you, perfect shade! *shakes fist*

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliners retail for $21 at Sephora, and $22 everywhere else for some reason.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

Top 21 Nail Polishes in my Stash

2012-01-12T00:32:00.001-05:00

I thought it would be fun to pick through my stash on a cold, house-bound day and pick out the polishes I could never part with. There are a lot of polishes that I love, but I narrowed it down to 21 that I couldn't part with come hell or high water.

In no particular order (clicking links will navigate you away from the page, right click and open new window to stick around!):

Chanel Peridot - It's just a beautiful and fun shade! My fave Chanel polish ever made! (that I've owned, there are many I lust for, though lol)
Le Metier de Beaute Kontagious Koral - The perfect Summer hue! AND a ONE COAT WONDER!
OPI Pros & Bronze - it's just something different, not your average shimmery peach
OPI Teenage Dream - Katy Perry made the song famous, OPI matched the polish perfectly
China Glaze Atlantis - a teal, holo glitter love
China Glaze Ingrid - who doesn't love a shimmery taupe?
China Glaze For Audrey - basically because of my Tiffany's obsession (sorry for the truly crappy swatch, I've come a long way in the photo department lol)

Missha Crystal - from Australia! I need more of these!
MAC Endless Night - a nude with attitude!
Dior Czarina Gold -I searched high and low for this, and by chance found it by calling a Bloomingdales in California. Hey, whatever you gotta do, right?
Dior Gold Nugget - this is an oldie... but a cultie! they should release it again. You can't tell in the photo, but it's almost half gone! the most used in my stash! (excuse the crap swatch)
Dior Merveille - a shimmery, juicy, cherry red... perfect for ANY season!
Cult Nails Unicorn Puke - this really needs no words... heaven in a bottle
Zoya Tiffany - Bet you thought I would have thrown in Zoya Brooke ;) I dun like it, but Tiffany stuns!

Butter London No More Waity, Katie - a lot of people didn't like this, but it's one of my faves!
Butter London Tart With A Heart - another people weren't too crazy for, but I think it's cool!
Nicole by OPI Kim-pletely In Love - yeah yeah, it's a Kardashian.. but so unique!
L'Oreal Owl's Night - one of my fave color polishes to wear, from a collection based off of one of my fave shows, Project Runway.
Orly Fowl Play - the supposed OPI Merry Midnight dupe is not so much... it's BETTER.
Orly Androgynie - was so happy to find this, even in a mini... we saw a lot similar in 2011, but Androgynie just has that extra twist!

And, finally, MAC Something About Pink from the Hello Kitty Collection (forgot to put it in the main photo, whoopsie!). This one is sentimental to me, because I was wearing it the day I gave birth to my daughter almost three years ago!

What are some of your fave polishes? Are any sentimental to you?

Born Pretty Store Orange Cracking Nail Polish Swatches and Review

2012-01-11T13:24:00.000-05:00

Polishes that Shatter, Crackle, Fragment... what have you... were the polish trend of 2011. This is 2012, but they're still going strong with their cool effects and amazing shades.
Born Pretty Store offers an Orange Cracking Polish that has an awesome cracking effect for overtop of your favorite shades and nail art.

(shown here over top of Funky Fingers Sand & Stilettos)

This particular brand of Cracking Polish needs to be painted on in a medium coat. Don't worry if it seems too thick, as it sets the gaps will separate more and more.

The Orange Cracking Polish retails for $4.91 and is available at the Born Pretty Store.

If you're interested in purchasing this polish, or any other items from Born Pretty Store - make sure you use this coupon code BNJ61 for 10% off of your purchase!!

Dior 441 GARDEN PASTELS 5-Couleurs Garden Edition Couture Colour Eyeshadow Palette Swatches, Review, and EOTD - Spring 2012

2012-01-11T11:20:00.000-05:00

It's all about pastels and gardens for this Spring season! Dior brings beautiful additions with their 5-Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette in Garden Pastels. They also have a 5-Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette in Garden Roses, which was previously reviewed.

What the Nordstrom Website has to say about Dior '5 Couleurs - Garden Party Garden Pastels' Eyeshadow Palette:

The legendary 5 Couleurs palette is reinvented as a charming collector's edition, with a rose-embossed palette. The two seductive color harmonies of this Garden edition are the object of everyone's desires.

The Garden Pastels' harmony floats between flowers and foliage, with its pale pink, buttercup yellow and luminous greens.
Featured in the Garden Party Spring Collection.
By Dior.

Garden Pastels is an unconventional and pretty mix of frosty iridescent greens, blues, yellows, pinks... basically all of your favorite pastels. These swatch rather nicely, but are sheerer when applied to the eye. If you'd like color from these shades, the best thing to do is to put them over a colored base, such as a MAC Paint Pot or an Eye Pencil. When using, don't press too hard on the roses. I learned with the other palette from this collection that they will crumble if you're not careful!

My Nordstrom was sold out of this, but I was able to pick it up at Macy's. It's apparently the more popular of the two from this collection, so get it while you can!

For this EOTD I wanted to try and incorporate all of the colors of the palette. Also, I know this Spring is all about pastel and should be understated and light... blah blah... well, my eyes looked sick when I did that, so that is why I added the darker liner, which makes ALL the difference, IMO. Liner matters.

I started out using UDPP as my base. I then took the middle pink shade and applied it as a base from lid all the way up to brow. Using a MAC 219 brush, I deposited the bottom right teal shade in the crease and a bit above, as well as underneath the eye. Then I took a MAC 239 and used the top right green shade on the lid, neglecting the inner corner of the eye. Using the Lancome Green Petal Le Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner, I colored in the inner corner of the eye top and bottom. I then used another MAC 219 brush to put the bottom left yellow shade over top. I used the top right white shade as a highlight.

Here is where things got hilarious. I decided right away that I wanted to use Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Sirin. I applied this and then added Le Metier de Beaute Anamorphic Lash Mascara in Jade and went to take the pics. It was just not "me". If that makes sense. I'm more of a neutral gal, but this set of shadows is sheer, and it NEEDED color! Back to the drawing board... enter Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Covet (my fave, tho I've never reviewed it... so ridiculous lol but I also used it here). I put Covet over top of Sirin and lined the bottom waterline. Fini.

On-Counter: Spring 2012, $59.00
Availability: Dior Counters Nationwide, Dior.com

Lancome GREEN PETAL Le Stylo Waterproof Long Lasting Eyeliner Swatches and Review - Spring 2012

2012-01-11T09:29:00.000-05:00

I have never used an eye liner from Lancome. Not because I've heard anything bad about them, but simply because I have my faves and just haven't been drawn in to the brand by way of liner. That all changed with the launch of their Spring 2012 Collection and the appearance of Green Petal.

What the Nordstrom Website has to say about Lancôme 'Le Stylo Waterproof - Spring 2012' Long Lasting EyeLiner:

Formulated for an intense eye look to withstand everything from tears to inclement weather, this waterproof eyeliner has a unique twist tip that never needs sharpening. Won't skip, smudge or streak. The easy-glide, creamy texture helps you create any look you like.

Use 502 Green Petal for a frosty mint green accent, or 600 Blanc, a pure white, to brighten eyes. Limited edition.
Shades featured in the Lingerie Collection include Blanc & Petal Green.

Green Petal is a frosty mint liner, meant to highlight the inner corner and accent the eye. This would also be an excellent base for your shadows. This liner does apply smoothly and is very soft.

There isn't a lot of pigment, so as a liner on it's own, it probably wouldn't be good unless you lined with it and then put a shadow over top. Be careful of how hard you're pressing (I learned the hard way and broke mine) and don't twist it up TOO high because it won't go back down (not mine, anyway).

Lancôme 'Le Stylo Waterproof - Spring 2012' Long Lasting EyeLiner retails for $25.50. Green Petal 502 is Limited Edition to the Lingerie Collection. You can find this at your local Lancome cosmetics counter. I'm not sure if every counter has this just yet, so call to check on availability.

Too Faced $100 e-GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY!

2012-01-10T18:11:00.000-05:00

Yep, you read that right!

First, how did this come about... WELL...

Yours truly was picked as Too Faced Cosmetics LEVEL 1 Beauty Blogger of the Month for January 2012!

I'm so unbelievably excited and honored to be recognized by this amazing brand!!

What this means for you.
Part of the package from being bestowed this honor is a $100 Gift Card to TooFaced.com that I can award to one lucky individual!

This giveaway is US only, but International lovelies can enter to win the January Giveaway!

VERY IMPORTANT:
This e-cert expires on January 31, 2012. If you're entering, make sure you're able to use this and order on the site before that date. You can get SO much on TooFaced.com for $100, so it shouldn't be too hard for you to find a lot to love, especially with their Spring 2012 items available!

How To Enter:

Please wait for the Rafflecopter Widget below to load and follow the instructions on each option to add your entries. The first option is mandatory, so once that is done it will unlock the other entry options.

If there are ANY issues with the widget (or if you have any questions about anything!), please email me or get ahold of me on Facebook or Twitter so I can fix this for you.

Additional terms and conditions are listed on the widget. Void where prohibited by law, US residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveawayA HUGE thank you to Too Faced Cosmetics for choosing me as their Level 1 Beauty Blogger of the Month for January 2012 and for providing this amazing prize!

***Prize was provided by Too Faced Cosmetics as part of the Level 1 Beauty Blogger of the Month prize package.

***ETA - At this time I've disabled comments on this post, I believe there may be some confusion on how to enter. You MUST enter by using the Rafflecopter widget for your entry to count!

Edward Bess SUMMER IN CAPRI Quad Royale Swatches and Review

2012-01-10T15:54:00.001-05:00

In December I got a fun Christmas surprise from a friend of mine, the Edward Bess Quad Royale in Summer In Capri! It wasn't even on my list because of the back-order, so I was insanely excited to have it in my hands!

What Neiman Marcus has to say about the Edward Bess Summer in Capri Quad:

Four perfectly paired shades, four ways. Sweep together for allover luminous color.
Mix and match to highlight cheeks and dress the eyes too. Complete with travel brush for touch ups on the go.

How to Use:
Sweep brush in smooth circular motion over all four shades for a sun-kissed effect all over the face.

Add some color to your cheekbones by dusting over the brighter shades and applying on the apples of your cheeks. Play up the eyes with these edited, soft shades for a look that appears flawless, yet effortless.

About Edward Bess:
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Edward Bess studied theater at Manhattan's Professional Performing Arts School and lived in London's fast-paced world of modeling before founding his eponymous cosmetics line in 2006. An instant hit with celebrities and fashionistas, his sought-after line features timeless style and flattering colors.

Summer In Capri is a beautiful blend of nude, peachy, and tan shades to make your cheeks glamorous!

I like to combine this with my Chanel Bronze Corail Bronzing Powder as a beautiful color highlight on the apples of the cheeks. The brush included is rather nice for this, and I sweep it from right to left in order to get more color.

Edward Bess Summer In Capri Quad Royale retails for $45.00 and is available at Neiman Marcus & Bergdorf Goodman. Currently it is on back-order, but a ship date is available on the websites.

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

NARS Makeup Removing Water & Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover - Official Product Information and Photos

2012-01-10T15:42:00.000-05:00

NARS introduces two new makeup removers designed to effectively remove eye makeup and surface impurities, revealing a refreshed, supple complexion. Boasting technically advanced formulas that are fragrance-free, dermatologist tested, and noncomedogenic, both products contain cucumber, chamomile, and hyaluronic acid, all ingredients known to hydrate and soothe the skin.

MAKEUP REMOVING WATER

Soap-free, oil-free, and alcohol-free, our Makeup Removing Water is the gentle, yet effective way to kick off your skincare routine. The water formula easily sweeps away makeup and tones the skin, without having to rub. Infused with cucumber, chamomile and hyaluronic acid, Makeup Removing Water leaves skin feeling soft, soothed and refreshed. Saturate a cotton pad with product, gently smooth over entire face and follow with your recommended NARS cleanser. The result: purified, toned, glowing skin. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist and ophtamologist tested.
PRICE: $28
AVAILABILITY: January 2012 at www.narscosmetics.com

GENTLE OIL-FREE EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

For long-wear eye makeup, including waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and highly-pigmented eyeshadow, NARS has created the new Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover. The high-performance, dual phase formula activates when shaken to eliminate all traces of eye and lip makeup, even waterproof and transfer-proof makeup, without having to rub. The result is a refreshing feeling with no oily residue left behind on the skin. Shake well before using. Saturate a cotton pad with remover, and apply to eye area. Hold for several seconds, then wipe with downward strokes. Repeat using fresh cotton pad if necessary. Great for sensitive eyes and gentle enough for contact lens wearers to use. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist and ophtamologist tested.
PRICE: $25
AVAILABILITY: November 2011 at www.narscosmetics.com

NARS Spring 2012 Color Collection and Q & A with Francois NARS

2012-01-09T18:06:00.000-05:00

The Spring 2012 Collection, created by Founder and Creative Director François Nars, stars a mix of bright and playful colors balanced with rich, saturated hues. Nars chose to photograph model Ginta Lapina for the spring campaign, explaining, “Her delicate features and classic beauty made her an ideal fit for a collection that’s at once fresh and fierce.”

To achieve the makeup look in the campaign image, Ginta’s skin was made radiant with Santa Fe Sheer Glow Foundation and set with Eden Loose Powder to create an Immaculate Complexion. Next, Zen Blush was applied to the hollow of the cheek and blended toward the temple for contour; Gaiety Blush was brushed onto the apple of the cheeks for a pop of color.

After prepping with Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, Lhasa Single Eyeshadow was blended onto Ginta’s lids, extending the color to the upper inner corner of the eye. Her brow bone was highlighted with Albatross Highlighting Blush before Dark Rite Soft Touch Shadow Pencil was swiped across the upper lash line. It was further defined with Rue Saint-Honoré Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner; a winged effect was created in the outer corner. The lower lash was lined with the same pencil and gently smudged. Brows were defined with Blondie Single Eyeshadow; lashes were curled, then brushed with two coats of Larger Than Life Lengthening Mascara. Lips were lined and filled in with Amazon Lipliner Pencil, then topped with Valparaíso Pure Matte Lipstick and Misbehave Lip Gloss for shine. The look was completed with Écume Nail Polish on the nails.

The Spring 2012 Collection is a study in contrasts: Bold color underscored by sophisticated shimmer. Eyes glisten in muted tones of lavender and pink, or shimmer in bronze shades accented with rich navy. Cheeks are flushed with candy pink. Lips gleam in topaz or pop with berry. Metallic violet nails add the finishing touch to a collection that’s bright, strong and iconic.

Douce France Trio Eyeshadow - $45

DOUCE FRANCE
Named for the 1942 song by French singer-songwriter Charles Trenet. The Trio
Eyeshadow features three gorgeous pink shades—shimmery icy pink, shimmery
rose-petal pink and matte deep rose—that can be mixed to create a range of
looks, from delicate and innocent to bold and sophisticated. Wear each alone or
use one as a base, another to highlight and the third as a liner or contour.

Lhasa Single Eyeshadow - $24

LHASA
One of the highest cities in the world, Lhasa is the home to many significant
Tibetan Buddhist palaces. This shimmery lavender-gray Single Eyeshadow
lends lids a luminous look worthy of its spiritual namesake.

Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow - $34

PARAMARIBO
The capital and largest city of Surinam, a tropical state in South America, was
the inspiration for this Duo Eyeshadow, with its metallic shades of brass and
bronze. Wear each solo, or use one as a base and the other as an accent or
highlight for a richly burnished effect.

Gaiety Blush - $28

GAIETY
A bright candy-pink Blush that’s as cheerful as the state of joyful exuberance for
which it’s named.

Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil - $24

MEXICAN ROSE
Just like its namesake flower, known for its long-lasting pink blooms, this hot-pink
Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil leaves lips soft and gorgeously glossy thanks to moisture-rich
hyaluronic spheres, which make pouts appear plumper.

Valparaiso Pure Matte Lipstick - $25

VALPARAÍSO
The Chilean city is becoming increasingly known as the country’s cultural capital.
The rich raspberry Pure Matte Lipstick delivers long-wearing color with a
comfortable finish.

Bilbao Lipstick - $24

BILBAO
A smooth and super-conditioning Lipstick in a shimmering topaz named for the
Basque region of Spain, which has been revitalized by the Frank Gehry–designed
Guggenheim Museum.

Dark Rite Soft Touch Shadow Pencil - $24

DARK RITE
The navy blue Soft Touch Shadow Pencil complements any warm-weather look.
Use the creamy, long-wearing formula alone, as a base for layering with powder
shadow, or to line and sculpt the eye.

Diamond Life - $18 (LE)

DIAMOND LIFE
Sade’s 1984 debut album inspired this metallic violet Nail Polish. “Smooth
Operator” indeed.

Available:
January 15, 2012 at narscosmetics.com

**********

Q&A WITH FRANÇOIS NARS

Why did you choose Ginta as the face of the Spring 2012 collection?
“I am constantly amazed by Ginta and how she completely transforms with makeup from the girl next door into an exotic beauty. Of course, her complexion is flawless and her features striking—both great assets for a makeup artist. In this case, she just really embodied the radiant, sophisticated look we envisioned for spring.”

What’s unique about the collection?
“At first glance, all the pinks and shimmer can look very sweet and innocent, but actually there is a lot of bold and contrasting color—a gray-lavender eyeshadow, a navy blue Soft Touch Shadow Pencil, a hot pink lip color, for example—that make the collection edgier and more sophisticated than it may seem.”

What are the must-have products from the collection?
“I would say our Douce France Trio Eyeshadow, because it allows for many eye looks, as well as our Dark Rite Soft Touch Shadow Pencil. I also love the Valparaíso Pure Matte Lipstick, a rich raspberry that looks absolutely delicious on the lips.”

Speaking of matte lipstick, it seems more like a cold-weather staple. How do you adapt it for spring?
“I never pay attention to rules like, ‘No matte makeup in warm weather.’ Matte is perfectly appropriate for spring, especially in a strong berry shade. In fact, it’s the perfect transitional color and texture to bridge winter and summer. If you have to have shine, you can add a little gloss on top.”

There are a lot of shimmers and metallics in the Spring 2012 collection.
Any tips on how to wear them?
“I’m not a big fan of rules, but if you are concerned about overdoing it, I would recommend keeping it to one feature: eyes, or cheeks, or nails. Wearing it everywhere can look a little too disco.”

Funky Fingers SAND & STILETTOS Nail Polish Swatches and Review

2012-01-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard of the store Five Below? I'm not sure if these are everywhere in the US, or even International for that matter, but we ran in there yesterday and I was shocked to see a beauty section! They had Wet N Wild (mostly core products, but a few of the older polishes were there too!) and a ton of random polishes.

A brand they had a lot of shades from is Funky Fingers. Never heard of it, but there were A LOT of pretty shades. One that literally SCREAMED at me was Sand & Stilettos.

(blurred for your pleasure)

(indoors w/ flash)

(outdoors, shaded, no flash)

(outdoors, sun, no flash)

Holy freakin glitter ball of holo. I prayed it would be as pretty on the nail as it was in the bottle. And it is. The swatch below is three coats and I can't stop staring. I feel like I'm at a disco. It does feel rather gritty, even with a top coat, but the fact that it is SO gorgeous means you should probably overlook that if it's something that usually bothers you.

Funky Fingers Nail Polish retail at Five Below for $2 each or 3 for $5. You're welcome.

Chanel VIOLET SMOKE, BRUN, KHAKI DORE Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definer Swatches and Review

2012-01-09T08:27:00.003-05:00

Since I was so in love with my Chanel Le Crayon Kohl liners - Black Jade, Noir, and Marine - I decided to get a few more when my mom and I popped by the Chanel counter at Macy's the other day. I was a little distraught and needed a haul. In my frenzy, I grabbed Le Crayon Yeux instead of Le Crayon Kohl. Oopsie. It was actually a wonderful mistake. I picked the colors from swatching the shades, and didn't even notice that it wasn't the kohl until I started to take the pictures. Below I'll talk about the similarities and differences in the two eye liners.

What the Neiman Marcus website has to say about Chanel Le Crayon Yeux:

Eye contour crayon outlines and accents dramatically. Creates a clear, precise line around eyes, enhancing their expression. Also gives a gentle shadow to lids when delicately blended with sponge applicator.

Extremely smooth texture with finely dispersed pigments for even, long-lasting wear.
Formula enriched with Vitamin E is ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers.
Sharpen pencil with the included two-bladed sharpener to assure a precise tip.
To contour the eye, draw a dotted line at the base of the lashes and blend.
To subtly accent eyelids, apply small quantity and blend with sponge applicator.
About CHANEL:
Founded by the French couturier Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel in 1909, the House of Chanel has become one of the most respected fashion empires in the world. The collection today includes haute couture, ready-to-wear, handbags, perfumes, and cosmetics and skin treatments. The legend and allure of the interlocking-C logo endures beautifully.

(L-R: Violet Smoke, Brun, Khaki Dore)

Violet Smoke is a deep and smoky purple. It wears with less pigment than I thought, but is beautiful for smudging.

Brun was a shade I purchased because I'm almost out of my HG MAC Teddy Kohl. It's very similar, but a little softer.

Khaki Dore is an olive shade, but leans more gold than green, which is what I was looking for.

Overall, I really liked these eye liners. Le Crayon Yeux is actually softer than the Kohl, yet has the same type of wear. These shades actually don't even come in the Kohl, and they don't even need to since the Crayon Yeux is such a similar and nice product. A point I really need to mention, is that the Kohl are specifically designed to line the rim of the eye. I had no problem using the Yeux for waterlining, but it's something to take into consideration. There is also a one dollar price difference (Le Crayon Yeux is more expensive).

Chanel Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definers retail for $29.00 each and are available for purchase at Chanel counters as well as online and at Chanel.com.

Duri - Polish Your Red Carpet Look

2012-01-09T07:32:00.002-05:00

GET READY TO ACCEPT THE AWARD FOR BEST DRESSED TIPS AND TOES WITH DURI COSMETICS' RED CARPET COLLECTION!!!

Retail $5 Each

And the winner is….Duri Cosmetics!

Award season is here and winning looks on and off the red carpet will include an assortment of matched and color-blocked mani/pedi's painted "best-dressed" with the season's most coveted shades. From walking the carpet and clutching that coveted award to hosting your own viewing party or watching from home -- Duri's assortment of glitzy, glamorous hues are sure to cast all eyes on fingers and toes all season long.

From the Golden Globes to the Academy Awards the People's Choice will be bright and shimmery -- And Duri Cosmetics steals the spotlight with their exclusive Red Carpet collection of nail polishes.

Try Paparazzi and get the cameras flashing with an envious majestic green lacquer infused with a midas touch of sparkle. Fashion Police will fend off "worst dressed" status with a light blue shimmering hue. Addicted to Fame's fiery orange hue will satisfy the hunger and Tabloid Rumors will keep nails under the radar dressed in a subtle shade of brick grey shimmer.

Going from one event to another...hook up with Limo Ride (copper shimmer) or go Behind the Scenes (royal purple) at the biggest Oscar Party (emerald shimmer). Create the uber Celebrity Scandal and steal the scene with nails foiled in liquid metallic silver and before the season is over...be sure to visit the VIP Lounge at least once for full access to the perfect and classic deep, rich burgundy.

All Duri Cosmetics nail products are completely safe, environmentally friendly and free from DBP, TOLUENE and FORMALDEHYDE. Products are available online at www.duri.com, as well as salons and specialty stores nationwide.

MAC Redhead Mineralize Skinfinish Swatches, Review and FOTD - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-08T12:29:00.000-05:00

The MAC, Naturally Collection bought back two Mineralize Skinfinishes that we saw with the Blonde, Brunette, and Redhead Collection. Redhead, and Blonde (soft pink to rose degrade) made a reappearance, while the third, Brunette, stayed dormant.

What the MAC website has to say about Mineralize Skinfinish (MSF):

A luxurious velvet-soft powder with high-frost metallic finish. Smoothes on: adds buffed-up highlights to cheeks, or an overall ultra-deluxe polish to the face.
10 g / 0.35 US oz

(four shades swatched separately, blended)

Redhead (gold to salmon pink degrade) is a wonderful melange of peachy shades that when blended together create a nice frosty golden peach. This shade is nice alone during the day or used to tone down a loud blush as well as highlight the cheek, depending on what shades you focus your brush on.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish retails for $28.00. Redhead is Limited Edition to the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

Now, for the MAC Naturally FOTD. The Winter natural collections from MAC are part of my favorite release from them for the whole year. The products fit into my daily lifestyle easily, but can be incorporated into a rare evening out as well.

For this look I used:
~ Lancome Dual Finish Powder Matte Bisque II
~ Chanel Perfection Lumiere Foundation in BR42
~ Dior DiorShow Brow Styler
~ MAC Brow Set - Clear
~ MAC Plushlash Mascara
~ Urban Decay Primer Potion
~ MAC Diamond Dove Eye Shadow
~ MAC A Cloudy Afternoon MES (Inner corners and highlight)
~ MAC Twilight Falls MES (Above crease and to blend out Diamond Dove)
~ Urban Decay Stray Dog 24/7 Eyeliner
~ MAC Fresh Honey Mineralize Blush
~ MAC Redhead MSF
~ MAC A Perfect Day Lipstick
~ MAC Naked Space Lipglass
***please note, clicking any of the above links will navigate you away from this particular page. You can right click your mouse and select "open in a new page" to remain on this one while you view other posts.

MAC Fresh Air, Naked Space, Hot Spell Lipglass Swatches and Review - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-08T11:25:00.002-05:00

A unique lip gloss available in a wide variety of colours that can create a high gloss, glass-like finish or a subtle sheen. Designed to be worn on its own, over Lip Pencil or Lipstick, Tinted Lipglass is the perfect product for creating shine that lasts. It's pigmented, very shiny and can impart subtle or dramatic colour. It contains Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition the lips. Tinted Lipglass is packaged in a convenient bottle with a sponge tip applicator that provides a quick, smooth, even application. 4.8 g / 0.17 US oz

Fresh Air

Naked Space

Hot Spell

MAC Lipglasses retail for $14.50 each. Fresh Air, Naked Space and Hot Spell are all Limited Edition to the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

MAC Fresh Honey Mineralize Blush Swatches and Review - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-07T09:46:00.001-05:00

Mineralize Blushes are always a stand out part of any new MAC Collection. It always seems like they can do no wrong. Fresh Honey is no exception!

I passed on Subtle Breeze (blue pink), and Early Morning (peachy pink) but I did pick up both for a friend, so staring at them is making me regret not purchasing for myself. They are really beautiful. A trip to the mall is in order ASAP.

What the MAC website has to say about Mineralize Blush:

Baked minerals refined into a powder formula to provide exceptionally sheer and lightweight application. Colour builds lightly, layer after layer, without heavy coverage. Veils and enhances the cheekbones with a luminous, pearlized shimmer.
3.2 g / 0.10 US oz

Fresh Honey (warm apricot) is an extremely pigmented peachy shade. I only had to tap my brush on top of the color and I had enough product on there for almost both cheeks.

Mineralize Blush always provides a nice amount of color, and this particular shade doesn't have a ton of shimmer, but rather a nice sheen. If you're looking for a nice, warm glow, Fresh Honey would be an excellent choice.

MAC Mineralize Blush retails for $22.00. Fresh Honey is Limited Edition to the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

MAC A Perfect Day and Pillow Talk Lipstick Swatches and Review - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-06T14:25:00.001-05:00

The MAC, Naturally Collection contains four lipsticks, some new, some we've seen before. I had Pillow Talk from a previous purchase of the Overnight Sensation Lip Bag, which was available at the 2011 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. A Perfect Day was the only new shade I purchased. I haven't had the chance to check the other two shades out in person, but they seemed like they didn't provide too much color. I want to be able to see them before I purchase.

In addition to Pillow Talk and A Perfect Day, there are also two other lipsticks - Beach Sand (light tan), and Sweet Sunrise (light, neutral peach pink).

What the MAC Website has to say about their Lipstick:

Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made M·A·C famous.
3 g / 0.1 US oz

(Pillow Talk, A Perfect Day)

Pillow Talk

Pillow Talk (mid-tone rosy nude, cremesheen) has grown on me since my initial review. At first I didn't like it alone, but as I wore it more it became a natural shade for me to wear through the cold months.

A Perfect Day

A Perfect Day (light neutral pink, amplified) is a very pale and creamy shade. This one might wash out certain skin tones. On me, personally, I need to put a lipglass over top. I'm NW25 in MAC shades, but can pull both cool and warm. This one seemed to be the popular choice from this collection, as it's the only lip shade that is sold out online.

MAC Lipsticks retail for $14.50 each. A Perfect Day and Pillow Talk are both Limited Edition to the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

MAC Flamingo Lipstick Swatches and Review - Iris Apfel

2012-01-06T12:40:00.000-05:00

The only lipstick I purchased from the Iris Apfel for MAC Collection was Flamingo. Five lippies were released with this collection - Morange (Loudmouth Orange), Party Parrot (Bright red-pink), Pink Pigeon (bright cleanest pink), Scarlet Ibis (Bright orange-red), and Flamingo.

What the MAC Website has to say about their Lipsticks:

Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made M·A·C famous.

3 g / 0.1 US oz

Flamingo (light milky bright coral, lustre) is more pink on the lips, and because of the lustre finish a rather subdued "bright". Lustre is my favorite finish from MAC, because even when you're timid around brighter shades you can wear the bright of your dreams in a Lustre finish and still feel confident.

A tip for Flamingo - EXFOLIATE the lips before applying. When I first put this one on my lips were feeling dry and the color clung to every imperfection!

All of the lippies except Morange (which is a permanent shade) are sold out on the website. I'm having remorse about not getting Scarlet Ibis... I can be a little timid with bright lips (though not as much as I am with a bright shadow), but swatches of this one look amazing! I'm hoping to find it in store, if I can!!

MAC Lipsticks retail for $14.50 each. Flamingo is Limited Edition to the Iris Apfel for MAC Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Flamingo is currently sold out online, but check your local stores and department store websites. Click to view the official press release.

MAC Cloudy Afternoon and Twilight Falls Mineralize Eye Shadows Swatches, Review, and EOTD - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-06T00:28:00.000-05:00

MAC is back with more Mineralize Eye Shadows!! With the MAC, Naturally Collection we're introduced to five new shades of swirled beauties. Cloudy Afternoon and Twilight Falls (featured in this post) are only two of them!

What the MAC Website has to say about Mineralize Eye Shadows:

Baked minerals refined into a powder formula provide exceptionally sheer and lightweight application. Colour builds lightly, layer after layer, without heavy coverage.
2.5 g / 0.08 US oz

(Cloudy Afternoon, Twilight Falls)

Cloudy Afternoon (cream with gold, grey and pink veining) swatches as a subdued frosted silver. It wears lightly on the eye, but would REALLY pop on top of a colored primer such as a Paint Pot.

Twilight Falls (cool brown with bronze veining) swatches like a sheer burgundy brown. I wish this one had more pigment when applied dry, but when looking for pigment here you'll have to use it wet. Idyllic Paint Pot would be ideal with this.

Overall, this crop of Mineralize Eye Shadows are like the others, just in different shades with new names. They applied nicely and wore very well (no creasing or fading when used over-top of Urban Decay Primer Potion (I wore the look below yesterday from 8:30am til 11pm and did a TON of running around with the kids). They are more sheer than your run-of-the-mill shadow, so they'd be great to pair up with a darker and more matte shade. Please remember the color of your MES might vary slightly depending on the veining and how much color you're getting there.

Other shades are Summer Haze (palest gold with deeper gold veining), Daylight (peach with dirty blue lavender veining), and In The Sun (gold with violet veining).

For this eye look I began with UDPP and applied Cloudy Afternoon all over the lid to the brow with the 286. Also using the 286 I added Twilight Falls to the crease and outer V. I finished off the look by smudging Chanel Le Crayon Kohl in Noir on the top lid and waterlining on the bottom. I ended the eye by using MAC Plushlash Mascara.

MAC Mineralize Eye Shadows retail for $20.00 each. Cloudy Afternoon and Twilight Falls are both Limited Edition to the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

MAC 286 Duo Fibre Blending Brush Photos and Review - MAC, Naturally

2012-01-05T17:39:00.001-05:00

No brushes have hit my radar since I got the bum 226 repromote from MAC Me Over. Oddly, since that, I haven't felt the urge to even look at brushes. The 286 Duo Fibre Blending Brush from the 2012 MAC Naturally Collection looked cool, but I wasn't lemming. Then I read somewhere (I want to say on Twitter) that this was THE brush for Mineralize Eye Shadows. Hrm... you don't say?!

What the MAC Website has to say about the 286 Duo Fibre Blending Brush:

With its soft dome shape, this two-toned, duo-fibre brush of goat and synthetic fibres provides a sheer, more controlled application of M·A·C Mineralize Eye Shadow.

The 286 isn't quite as tapered as the original 226, but it's MUCH nicer than the repromoted 226. I used this with the Mineralize Eye Shadows I got from Naturally (to be reviewed) and it worked well for both applying to the lid, and in the crease. It actually made applying and blending the two shades together a breeze! Mineralize Eye Shadow can produce a lot of fall out, but I experienced none while using this brush. It's a good one to have for MES or for any type of blending in general.

The MAC 286 Duo Fibre Blending Brush retails for $30.00 and has released with the MAC Naturally Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

MAC Diamond Dove Eye Shadow Swatches and Review - Iris Apfel

2012-01-04T18:59:00.000-05:00

Generally, I stay away from shadows that are too bright. I have a few (you never know, always be prepared!) and don't seem to feel the need to purchase more. The Iris Apfel for MAC Collection contains five shadows. Some bright and bold, some dark. Early Bird and Robin's Egg were easy passes (bright). Howzat is a repromote from the MAC Holiday 2011 Cool Palette (which I have), Silver Gull I thought about, but in the end passed because early reviews said it was dry and sheer.

The shadow I did decide on, almost immediately, was Diamond Dove.

What the MAC Website has to say about Iris Apfel for MAC Eye Shadows:

Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.
1.5 g / 0.05 US oz

(this is a swatch done with my finger, which is how I do all of my swatches. I applied it three times and this is as much pigment as I got.)

(Devastated by the dry swatch, I picked up a 239 brush, got some product on it, and the end result is the swatch above. MUCH better.)

Diamond Dove (deep grey brown, matte) is as described, but is a rather dry matte. Originally I thought it would be reminiscent of Moth Brown, but this is a different texture and darker.

If you swatch this on your finger and rub it on your hand in the store to get the color... well you'll get the crap swatch that I got at first. The shadow actually does apply on the lid like in the second swatch photo, just use a firm brush.

MAC Eye Shadows retail for $15.00 each. Diamond Dove is Limited Edition to the Iris Apfel for MAC Collection. This collection is available at maccosmetics.com, MAC Stores, and counter locations. Click to view the official press release.

Urban Decay NAKED2 Palette Swatches, Review, and Eye Looks

2012-01-04T17:39:00.002-05:00

I resisted and resisted... missed the first launch.... and was okay with it. Then it restocked. I fought with myself over whether or not I should bother with it, since I have and love the original Naked Palette. In the end, my ridiculous habit won out and I purchased the Urban Decay Naked2 Palette off of UrbanDecay.com on the second restock. It didn't hurt that I also got free shipping AND a free mini 24/7 liner in Mildew!

Not gonna lie... while it seems a little ridiculous to own both Naked and Naked2, I'm glad I have both. I wear the snot out of neutral colors on my day-to-day and my original Naked has seen some major use. More-so than any other palette in my arsenal.

I've actually had this since just before Christmas, but I wanted to use all of the shades and post a few looks here for you, so you get to see swatches from me now ;)

What Sephora has to say about the Urban Decay Naked2 Palette:

What it is:
The most anticipated sequel of the decade, Naked2 features a dozen pigment-rich taupe and gray-beige neutrals, plus five exclusive, new shades.

What it does:
The follow up to the original bestselling Naked palette, this stunning second edition proves that neutral is anything but boring. Showcasing a dozen completely different shades than the first bronze-based collection, it includes a stunning range from pale and deep, to matte and sparkly. You'll achieve a host of new neutral looks, smoky dramatic eyes, and everything in between. The palette also includes a travel-size Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Naked and a double-ended, cruelty-free Good Karma Shadow/Crease Brush (available only in this palette).

This set contains:
- 12 x 0.05 oz Eyeshadows in Foxy (cream bisque with matte finish), Half Baked (golden-bronze with shimmering finish), Booty Call (shimmering cork), Chopper (copper shimmer with silver microglitter), Tease (creamy pale brown with matte finish), Snake Bite (dark bronze shimmer with metallic base), Suspect (pale golden beige with shimmering finish), Pistol (light gray-brown with shimmering finish), Verve (oyster with shimmering finish), YDK (cool bronze shimmer with metallic base), Busted (deep brown with shimmering finish), Blackout (blackest black with matte finish)
- Good Karma Shadow/Crease Brush
- 0.11 oz Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Naked (pinky neutral)

What else you need to know:
Urban Decay's packaging takes on a modern feel in Naked2. With an art-school-inspired tin case and a hinged lid, it's smooth and cool to the touch. Compare Naked2 with first Naked palette—packaged in warm, rich brown velvet with gold foil lettering—and you won't be able to resist owning both.

(L-R: Foxy, Half Baked, Bootycall, Chopper, Tease, Snakebite)

(L-R: Suspect, Pistol, Verve, YDK, Busted, Blackout)

Of course, I love the shades in the Naked 2 Palette. What's not to love about a palette packed with my favorite shades of shadow? As with all Urban Decay shadows, they are easy to use and I experienced little to no fall out. My BIGGEST complaint is that they have Half Baked in this palette as well as in the original Naked. I'm sure you read on everyone's blogs... WHY?!

I love the packaging much better than the original Naked. It's a nice tin and is more protective and just looks nicer.

I love that a gloss was included with this palette rather than a primer potion. There is a pile of primer potion minis in my HG box and I randomly give them to people. For some reason I've found the mini-primer doesn't seem to work as well as the full size. I don't know WHY that is on me... but it does, so I don't use them. This gloss, appropriately in the shade Naked, is a nice neutral rose shade with a bit of shimmer. A little sticky, but not too bad. I love the cap on it as well, fancy fancy!

This brush had me nervous. I've never used brushes other than MAC. (Though I do use a blush brush from Le Metier de Beaute from time to time). They work well for me and I'm not one to venture far from things that work well. I felt the UD brush and thought the fluffy end was too forgiving and the stiff end was too stiff. I finally used it and I love it! My fave look to do with this brush and Naked2 is Verve on the lid and Pistol in the crease with Chanel Le Crayon Kohl in Marine Blue smudged as a liner. I can't seem to stop wearing that look. You'd think I'd have a pic for you... but I don't lol. I DO have 2 other eye looks to share with you, though!

This first look is neutral. I used Bootycall on the lid and Tease in the crease, for the top liner I used Urban Decay Liquid Liner in Smog.

This look is more dramatic. YDK is on the lid and Snakebite in the crease and outer V. Bootycall was used to highlight. I used Urban Decay Corrupt for the liner.

As for the Naked (top) and Naked2 (bottom) comparison pic:

It's fairly easy to see that some shades are different, while some are very similar. If I could only choose ONE I'd pick the Naked2 palette over the original Naked because I like the packaging more and the fact that it comes with a brush and gloss over another mini primer potion and Zero liner. I also like the colors better in Naked2. While it still leans warm, it's cooler than the original Naked.

The Urban Decay Naked2 Palette retails for $50. You can pick this up at Sephora (where it is in stock). It is currently sold out on UrbanDecay.com but will be back eventually. Sephora actually has a little tid bit about product availability. If you happen to miss out online, don't fret - Naked2 hits stores at the end of January!

***This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please see my Disclosure Policy.

L'Oreal SULTRY SMOKE, ICED LATTE, ENDLESS PEARL, BRONZED TAUPE 24 HR Infallible Eye Shadow Swatches and Review

2012-01-02T19:50:00.000-05:00

Awhile ago L'Oreal released Infallible Eye Shadows internationally (I forget exactly where). These are said to be a drugstore dupe for the Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Shadows, so naturally everyone was intrigued to explore this product. After what I'm sure was a lot of excessive begging (from me on Twitter hehe) the Infallible Eye Shadows appeared in the states. And the crowd goes wild.

What the L'Oreal website has to say about 24 Hour Infallible Eye Shadows:

For the first time ever, L'Oreal Paris introduces an ultra intense eye shadow that lasts from day until dawn - a full 24 hours. This revolutionary formula fuses the ease of a powder with the velvety caress of a cream to create a unique hybrid that glides on effortlessly. And with it's unique technology, your eyes are enhanced with pure, magnificent pigment. Make a lasting impression without batting an eye.
Intense, maximized color
Luxurious powder-cream texture
24-hour long-lasting hold
Waterproof, crease resistant, fade resistant

(Sultry Smoke)

(Endless Pearl)

(Bronzed Taupe)

(Iced Latte)

(L-R: Sultry Smoke, Endless Pearl, Bronzed Taupe, Iced Latte)

Sultry Smoke is a really pretty satiny slate blue, Endless Pearl is an ivory satin, Bronzed Taupe is a frosty grey-brown, and Iced Latte is a frosty ivory.

For the wear process I put Bronzed Taupe all over the lid and through the crease and then highlighted with Endless Pearl. I did not use any sort of primer underneath, these shades were all on my bare eye. It's been on for about 12 hours now and there is no fading or creasing. I even fell asleep on the couch a bit today with my daughter and woke up with my left eye pressed into the arm of the couch and there is not smudging. You wouldn't even know that I didn't just apply the shadow.

The Infallible Eye Shadows are everything they say they are and more. Call this a new addiction and I will absolutely be purchasing more, if not all of these. So be on the look out for more posts and swatches, as well as some looks!

I've found it is better to apply these with the finger, rather than a brush (like the Armani's). It just gives an easier and smoother application. The feel of the L'Oreal shadows is a little more powdery than the Armani, but they work just as well and are a fourth of the price (I paid $7.99 each at Rite-Aid). Bronzed Taupe is said to be a dupe for the Armani #06, but I find that the Armani is a lot brassier of a bronze, while the L'Oreal is a true taupe shade.

L'Oreal Infallible Eye Shadows retail for $9.95 (MSRP) but pricing will vary based off of where you buy them. Usually at least one store will also have a deal where they are buy one get one half off, so be sure and check your ads and your Sunday paper for coupons. These shadows are available in 12 shades and can be found at your local drugstore as well as at Ulta.

January 2012 Giveaway! Happy New Year with Benefit THRRROB and GEORGIA Blush!

2012-01-02T11:39:00.002-05:00

In honor of the New Year this giveaway will feature 2 beautiful blushes
from Benefit to start your New Year off in a glowing way!

Please wait for the Rafflecopter widget below to load, and follow the 
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mandatory, so once you do that one it will unlock the other options for
extra entries.

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message on Facebook or Twitter so I can address this for you!


The terms and conditions are listed in the widget as well, but YES this giveaway is

open internationally!

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free to email me or send me a message on Facebook or Twitter.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway*** Items were purchased by me for the purpose of this giveaway.