Tuesday, May 31, 2011

May 2011 Favorites

I didn't have a Nudey Tuesday prepared and figured since yesterday's post was a foundation review, it could count as an early Nudey Tuesday. Today I'm focusing on my favorite products of May -products that have been used regularly with nearly all of my makeup looks during the month.
  1. Revlon ColorStay Mineral Finishing Powder in Brighten- This is a good and cheap highlighter that gives off that "soft and natural" glow. It's great for every day use -I just hate the bulky packaging. (Review here)
  2. CoverGirl NatureLuxe Liquid Silk Foundation- I've been using this on and off for about two weeks and so far so good. This is just what I needed -something super lightweight that doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. My "foundation" budget is usually much higher since foundation is one of those products where finding the right one is absolutely necessary but this is so cheap at just a little over $10! (Prices vary depending on where you buy it.) (Review here) (Buy here)
  3. Shiseido Benefiance Concentrated Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream- I'm not one to buy expensive skincare products. I usually use whatever my dermatologist recommends and that list consists of lotions, creams, and ointments from the drugstore or prescription items. Over the last few months (I believe due to the weather), I started to get a lot of dryness around my eyes. I'd wake up with flaky skin on my eyelid and underneath my lash line. Needless to say, it was annoying, irritating, and very unattractive. =P I opened up a sample of Benefiance that I received with a GWP not thinking it would do much. The next day, the skin around my eyes was so much better! I've been using this every other day or so and my skin's really improved. The dryness and fine lines (due to the dryness) have disappeared. However, due to the price, I'm still going to shop around before committing to buying this. $52 is a lot for just 0.51 oz of product. (Buy here)
  4. MAC Kissable Lipcolour in Enchantee- My boyfriend got this for me when the Peacocky Collection launched and I regret not having bought more. The formula is amazing! It's kind of like a liquid lipstick but with a slightly glossy finish (not as glossy and shiny as regular gloss though.) I'm loving the bright pink shade for spring/summer.
  5. Prestige My Longest Lashes Mascara- I've been searching for this since it came out but just recently found it at a nearby Rite Aid. It makes my lashes look clean, long, and defined and does a better job than most high-end mascaras I've tried. I've been using this in conjunction with My Biggest Lashes for the "ultimate long lashes" -or at least the best my lashes can do.
  6. It Cosmetics Eyes of Seduction Lash Primer- I've been on the hunt for a new lash primer ever since my beloved Shiseido The Makeup Mascara Base was discontinued. The new and not improved formula did not do the original justice whatsoever. I've gone through nearly a dozen primers now and none have worked out. Eyes of Seduction does a good job -it basically enhances the length, volume, and thickening abilities of my mascara and holds onto a curl really well. I like this but my beloved Shiseido was better. On the upside though, it's cheap compared to other high-end lash primers. (Buy here)
  7. Sephora Super Nourishing Lip Balm- I rotate lip balms quite often as I feel that when I stick to one for too long, it stops working. But when I rotate one out every 3-4 weeks or so, my favorites tend to work better (if that makes any sense..) Lately I've been using Sephora's newest lip balm. While my expectations were rather low, the product turned out to be pretty amazing! Who knew a $5 lip balm could be perfection? It moisturizes my lips and keeps them super soft. I also love the packaging -no squeeze tube or icky pot here! Also, there's a yummy vanilla scent too. (Buy here)
  8. L'Oreal Sublime Bronze One Day- My skin is usually medium/tan to begin with but I lost any signs of a tan during the last few months. While my body is still "medium" toned overall, my legs are super white! I've been using this gel for sunny days when I wear dresses and it's been doing a great job. This gives a great, not-too-orange tan without being too unnatural looking. If you have a medium to lightly tanned skin tone to begin with, I think this would work very well for you. However, if you're very pale, it could be a bit drastic. Mixing it with some lotion and gradually building up the "tan" would probably be your best bet. (Buy here)
MAC Kissable Lipcolours in Enchantee, Woo Me

MAC Kissable Lipcolour in Enchantee

Have a wonderful Tuesday everyone!!

Monday, May 30, 2011

CoverGirl NatureLuxe Collection: Liquid Silk Foundation & Gloss Balm

Foundation Grade: A-
Gloss Balm Grade: B-

I'm sure you've noticed loads of new CoverGirl products pouring through the cosmetics aisles of your local drugstores. Today's review is all about the Liquid Silk Foundation ($12.99 for 1 oz) and Gloss Balm ($7.49 for 0.07 oz) which are part of their new NatureLuxe Collection. To be honest, the last time I used a CoverGirl product was probably in high school. Their Lipslick (in a silvery whiteish pink) was a a staple in my makeup bag (I cringe when I look back on it!) and my first foundation was made by them as well.

However, as I learned more about makeup, I preferred other drugstore brands like Maybelline and Revlon. But after trying these two products, CoverGirl has definitely made a comeback in my book -I wouldn't be surprised if some new products showed up in my makeup drawers anytime soon.

Product Description
Ingredients
I'll start off with my favorite of the two -the Liquid Silk Foundation (with SPF 10). This stuff is amazing! I'd describe the foundation as more of a tinted moisturizer or very light foundation. It goes on smoothly and gives light coverage leaving a slightly dewy finish (but nothing over the top.) The foundation is feels so light on the skin -I forget I'm wearing it! It covers all my veins and light marks well and best of all, it doesn't make my forehead look super ashy or gray. Also, it doesn't dry out or irritate my super dry, sensitive skin which is a huge plus.
The foundation does have the standard "makeup" scent but after applying it, the scent fades. It lasts me through an average day (about 5 hours) with minor fading.
I received #350 Oak which was the darkest shade of the five or six BzzAgent offered (there are tons more shades in store). The shade is a little light for me but it works. When the weather gets warmer I'll have to mix it with some bronzing gel.
Gloss Balm in Muscat
The Gloss Balm (with SPF 15) is nice but I'm not amazed. It's nice -basically a (very) tinted lip balm with a glossy finish. The color payoff is good and leaves my lips with a tint of strawberry red with some orange (and subtle red sparkles.) It lasts about 2 hours before it starts to fade but it does leave a very light tint of color. There is a slight artificial strawberry makeup scent but the scent fades once it's applied.
Swatches..

Above (with flash) from top: Liquid Silk Foundation in Oak, Gloss Balm in Muscat
Above (with flash): Gloss Balm in Muscat

I received both products from BzzAgent. Anyone can sign up with BzzAgent. Members are able to sign up for free and join campaigns and receive products to try and review.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

NEW Product Alert: Iman @ Target

I stopped by Target today and was VERY excited to stumble across the new Iman cosmetics line. I picked up the Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder in Afterglow ($15.99) and Luxury Blushing Powder Duo in Allure ($11.99). Prices seem to be comparable to Sonia Kashuk -more expensive than the "average" drugstore brands but a lot cheaper than higher-end. Will hopefully update soon with cell phone pics of all the products!

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Revlon Top Speed Swatches (99 cents each @ CVS with this week's deal)

I forgot to post this during the week but better late than never right? It's still 8 p.m. here in California and since some CVS stores are 24 hour, I thought I'd post! I picked these up for $4.99 a piece and got $4 Extra Bucks for each -which made them basically 99 cents a bottle. I haven't worked with any of them yet but the shades are definitely winners. (All are Top Speed except for Blue Lagoon.) Limit 6 per household.

Have a wonderful 3 day weekend!

Love Lace

Prior to this spring/summer season, I was always into the basics -tees, tanks, leggings, and cardigans were the pieces I reached for while getting dressed. My main squeeze was makeup. While makeup is still very much dancing through my veins, my love for fashion has come back.
After high school, I kind of forgot about fashion as I was discovering the wonderful world of makeup. I'm sure I've mentioned it but since I was about 4-years-old up until the end of high school, I wanted to be a fashion designer. My mother was a designer and I studied, sketched, and dreamed of being a designer from a very young age. But I guess, reality struck and I decided that designing wasn't "stable enough" so I opted out of it when I graduated.
I realized that I kind of stopped shopping for clothing as much as before and focused all my time on makeup. Well, in the past few months, I've been on a wild clothes hauling spree and I can't stop! Lately, I've been so into lace, pastels, and floral prints. My wardrobe has suddenly become a mix of creams, nudes, and dusty roses. But, while I currently smitten with very girly patterns and shades, I still have a strong love for bold navy blues, blacks, and stripes. My fashion taste is very diverse.
Anyways, while boyfriend was looking at watches today, I somehow stumbled into Forever 21 again. It was like a dream come true -endless selection of LACE for some low, low prices. =) Too bad the other dresses I wanted were sold out in my size.
Here's dress #1 ($22.80). I'm loving this nude dress with its Peter Pan collar. At first glance, it looks very granny-ish but I'm glad I gave it a chance! The hem hits above the knee so it does show some leg which is nice since the collar's a tad high up. Boyfriend hates but at least I love it. I can't wait to wear it with a satin black bow and some black heels flats -I rarely wear heels!
(I apologize I can't find either pieces online -I think they're new though so maybe they'll show up in the next few days.)
Here's #2 ($19.80). While the first dress had more of a whimsical feel, this dress wraps around the body clinging onto every curve.I wasn't sure about it at first but after trying it on, I really like it! And the print looks like it came straight out of a black and white film -it's very different.
I'm absolutely loving lace at the moment. Lace isn't only for your undergarments -it can look fabulous in your dresses, tops, and even blazers as well. =) What are your favorite spring/summer trends? Share!

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Nudey Tuesday: Revlon ColorStay Mineral Finishing Powders in Brighten, Sunkiss, Suntan Matte ($3.69 steal!)

Repurchase: Yes
Price: $3.69 @ CVS (0.31 oz)
Product: 22/25
Packaging: 3.5/5
Value: 10/10
Overall Grade: B+

Over the weekend, I went to CVS to check out their clearance sale offerings. I didn't find too much, which is actually a good thing, but I did grab two Revlon ColorStay Mineral Finishing Powders in Sunkiss and Suntan Matte. I had already purchased Brighten about a year ago so I thought I'd give the 2 other shades a shot.

The Packaging: The powders are packaged in thick black compacts with clear covers. Surprisingly, I've dropped Brighten several times and it hasn't broken -the compacts are bulky and ugly but pretty darn sturdy.

Ingredients
Directions
The Product: Brighten and Suntan Matte are slightly sheer but buildable, so you'll definitely be able to achieve good color payoff. Sunkiss is pigmented and only required 1-2 swipes to get amazing color payoff. The powders are smooth and easy to blend. They're perfect for adding some highlight to any look or a warm, golden glow for summer.

The only downside is that I don't feel that they last long -about 3 to 4 hours tops. But for the price, they're pretty awesome.

Brighten
Sunkiss
Suntan Matte
The Color:
  • Brighten- Very pale ballet pink with silver shimmer
  • Sunkiss- Deep metallic golden bronze with gold shimmer
  • Suntan Matte- Warm matte golden tan with minor gold shimmer
Swatches..

Above (no flash) from left: Brighten, Sunkiss, Suntan Matte

Overall: At just a little under $4 a piece, I'd definitely recommend picking at least one of these up. They're wonderful products that can be used to complete any look. However, because of they don't last long, I wouldn't say that these are worth any extra trouble or effort. If you see them, get them. If you don't, don't kill yourself trying to find them.

Where To Buy: CVS

I can't find it online at any of the usual drugstore websites so I think these may be getting discontinued. However, they are available at LOTS of places online (amazon, discount sites, etc.) so not to worry. Just be sure to only buy from sellers you trust!

Monday, May 23, 2011

Some Hauling: GAP, Forever 21, CVS Clearance Sale, The Body Shop, & More..

I've been very, very bad.. Well, not really. Most of the following items were purchased with gift cards, through exchanges, or were gifts -so I feel like I can justify everything! Plus, everything was on sale -or just very cheap. =)

Also, if you didn't already know, Gap is currently offering an extra 30% off to anyone who brings in clothing to donate to Goodwill. No coupon is needed -just bring in the clothes and you'll get 30% off at the register. (Ends May 29th, offer available in U.S. and Canada)

I'm really liking the F21 blazer. At first, I wasn't too thrilled about it being knit (knit outerwear seems to cry "cheap" to me) but I do really adore the style. Plus, it's warm! And onto the Gap blazer.. I'm so in love with it. I've been wanting some simple blazers for the longest time and recently, I've really hit the jackpot. Quality jackets and coats for cheap reasonable prices are extremely difficult to come by. This is listed online for $98 -I scored it for under $40! The pink polka dot lining is a major plus (to me). Also, it was purchased through an exchange so I ended up paying 10 cents total for this and some sweaters.
Gap Beaded Cardigan
I originally bought the pleated cardigan in Pink Fairy, a peachy color, but ended up exchanging it for this mustardy brown color. Peach just isn't my color. However, I'm dying to own it in Verveine, a dusty rose. I also found the beaded cardigan for a very sweet deal -around $5 (with extra 30% off)! There was only one left in a size small -slightly larger than what I normally wear, but it'll work.
Niketown Chicago T-Shirt
My boyfriend picked this up for me during his trip to Chicago -I really like the purple. He's already decided that he wants me to wear it with leggings and TOMs. =P
We went to Marshalls yesterday and I spotted these and fell in love. They were the perfect color (a rosy nude) and only $30! My boyfriend's been wanting to get me some new flats. A month or so ago, I found some Coach ones at Macy's for something like $130 but I told him I wanted these way more. He was actually trying to get me to choose the pricey Coach ones instead (weird!) because he hated these .. oh well. I love them. P.S. I didn't want the Coach ones because I'm not a fan of logos being plastered all over my clothes, shoes, and accessories and of course, that's what Coach is pretty much known for.
Gap Leopard Print City Flats (similar here)
I've been wanting to try Gap's very popular City Flats for a while now and have been wanting some animal print flats so this was a nice find at just $20. However, I'm not sure if they'll be comfy -does anyone own a pair? Let me know!
Forever 21 Braided Belt (rainbow)
I also picked up some cheap belts.. ($3.50 each)
And the CVS Clearance items..
Rimmel Glam'Eyes Mascara (new version here) ($2.12)
Great savings but I didn't have any coupons to use so it really wasn't that awesome. Oh well.. I've noticed that stores around here haven't been putting out the coupon pads anymore. And I used my newspaper coupons for some purchases a few weeks ago. =(
I came into The Body Shop during the week for a consultation (members received a free gift for coming) and the Moisture Foundation was used on me. I took home a sample and really liked it so the next day, I brought in a product I didn't like to exchange it for the foundation. It was an almost even exchange so it only cost like 98 cents.
The free gift!
  • Hi-Shine Lip Treatment in Gold Glimmer
  • Coupon for free makeover & free Camomile Eye Make-Up Remover
  • Honey & Oat Mask Sample (in jar)
  • Vitamin E Moisture Cream (sample)
  • Buriti Baby Body Butter (sample)
  • White Musk Eau De Toilette (sample)
  • Tea Tree Blackhead Exfoliating Wash (sample)
  • For Men Maca Root Energetic Face Protector (sample)
Boyfriend also got me a Princess Leia key chain.. I always get him Lego key chains so I was kind of surprised he got me one! And the gum? Oh it's amazing. It tastes exactly like mint chocolate chip ice cream. I cannot believe how spot on they got the flavor.
That's it for the haul! Have a beautiful Monday everyone.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Nudey Tuesday: Limited Edition Revlon ColorBurst Lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout Review & Swatches

Repurchase: Yes
Price: $8.99 (0.13 oz)
Product: 22.5/25
Packaging: 4.5/5
Value: 9/10
Overall Grade: A-

I've been searching high and low for the Revlon's limited edition ColorBurst lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout since seeing it on Nouveau Cheap months ago. My area seems to always be the last to receive any limited edition or new products so I still had high hopes in the beginning of May. Finally, I spotted it at my local Walgreens! I wanted to grab a second to give away but out of the three on display, two had been tampered with and only one was left perfect and untouched. =\

The Packaging: Nothing special here. This limited edition shade is packaged in the same ol' ColorBurst packaging -a square matte black tube featuring a quilted design. The bottom contains a sticker displaying the shade name. And once again, I love the fact that "Revlon" is engraved into the actual lipstick bullet.

Ingredients
The Product: Revlon lipsticks, with the exception of the "new" shades, are generally very pigmented and Fashion's Night Pout is no exception. Along with its great color payoff, it is also buildable, glides on smoothly, and feels nice on the lips without drying them out. Prior to applying the lipstick, my lips were very dry and naked (no lip balm!) so application could've gone better with some exfoliating and a good balm.

Fashion's Night Pout
The Color: Fashion's Night Pout is a slightly warmed pale pinky nude with a tinge of salmon. While the shade is indeed very "nude", it doesn't give off totally corpse-like lips -it's actually one of the prettiest drugstore nude lipsticks I've ever encountered.
Swatches..
Above (no flash): Revlon ColorBurst lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout
Above (with flash): Revlon ColorBurst lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout 
Above (with flash): Revlon ColorBurst lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout
Overall: I've never tried the original "Soft Nude" shade because I've heard countless times that it's very drying BUT I'm beyond happy that I gave Fashion's Night Pout a try. It's better than some high end nude lipsticks that leave my lips looking cracked and dry. For $8.99, you get an amazing formula and shade for a total steal.

Where To Buy: Walgreens