Nail Of The Day: Let's Have A Neon Party With Duri!

Hey Dolls,

Summer is here and there is no denying that fun, and bright nail colors, are much preferred during these warmer months. I love Neon nail polishes. They are super fun to sport, and the brightness and intensity of the colors just adds a cool pizzazz to your nail look.

I have had a great experience when I first tried Duri nail polishes in the past. So, you could all imagine my excitement when I got the opportunity to try a few Duri colors from the Ultra Bright by Duri collection!
I want to apologize beforehand because, my pictures do not do these nail colors any justice. My camera went cray-cray, when I was snapping shots of these intense and bright colors, hahaha!

Now, let's meet Poison and Bedeviled ($5.00 each).

(click all images to enlarge)

Left To Right: Poison, Bedeviled

Poison

Poison-3 coats, no topcoat

Poison is probably my most favorite out of the two nail colors. Poison is a super bright, neon pink. And I do mean bright. It's so bright, that it's too much for my eyes sometimes, LOL! This color applied very smoothly, I got nice opaque coverage with three semi-thick coats, and I experienced no streaks or air bubbles. Drying time was relatively quick, and the color dried to a semi-matte finish.

I am actually sporting Poison on my toes, and I am loving how they look!

Bedeviled

Bedeviled-4 coats, no topcoat

Here is another fun neon color. Bedeviled is an intense, bright neon orange. Luckily for me, this color is much more easier on the eyes than Poison was. Like it's sister Posion, Bedeviled applied smoothly, and I got opaque coverage. I experienced no streaks or air bubbles, and the drying time was quick as expected. I did notice that this color dried to a more glossier finish than Poison did.

Although I got opaque coverage with both colors, I did end up with a tiny hint of visible nail lines. But, I think that happens with most neon polishes. I remember I once read somewhere that, in order to get complete coverage and avoid the visible nail lines that occur with neon polishes, it helps if one applies white nail polish first, and then apply the neon color on top. Neat tip that I am sure would come in handy.


You can purchase Duri nail polish by heading on over to www.duri.com.

What do you all think of Duri nail polishes? Are you all fans of neon nail colors?

Disclaimer: I received these products for review consideration by a PR company. My reviews are always 100% honest. 

Product Review: Urban Decay Naked Palette

It happened. I FINALLY got my hands on the Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette ($48.00)! While at Sephora at few weeks ago, I spotted a whole bunch of naked palettes in stock, so I decided that it was the time to grab one to take home with me. It was probably the best decision I have made in awhile!

(click all images to enlarge)

Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette

The 'updated' eyeshadow palette consists of 12 eyesadows, a mini-sized original primer potion, and an eyeshadow brush. When the Urban Decay Naked eyeshadow palette was first released, instead of an eyeshadow brush, it contained a double ended 24/7 Glide-On Eye pencil in Zero (black) and Whiskey (brown). I am kind of bummed that I missed out on this eyeshadow palette back then because, I would have very much preferred the eyeliner pencils. I have enough eyeshadow brushes, to be honest.

If you are a fan of neutral eye makeup, then this eyeshadow palette is definitely worth the investment. I think the value is great. Twelve universally flattering and wearable eyeshadows, a mini eyeshadow primer, and an eyeshadow brush-all for $48. You can't beat that! Especially if you know you are going to rock these shadows most days, if not everyday. Urban Decay is usually known for their famous eyeshadow primer potion-which is a daily staple for me, and pigmented shimmered shadows. I really appreciate the fact that they included two matte eyeshadow colors. They come in handy if you prefer a neutral matte eye look for daytime, or to help blend in darker colors on, or above the crease.

I really like the packaging. I think the palette is very sleek, but minimal at the same time. I love the velvet feel, and the inclusion of a mirror inside is very handy. All of the colors coordinate so well together. It's amazing how many possible eye-looks one can create with just the use of this ONE eyeshadow palette. I think Gunmetal eyeshadow is a nice surprise. It would have never occurred to me that pairing basic neutral colors like the browns, bronzes, and golds with grey, would look so well together.
I also want to mention that the black eyeshadow color-Creep, is a very soft black when applied, It's not as dark and harsh as other black shadows.

L-R: Virgin, Sin, Naked, Sidecar, Buck, Half Baked 

Virgin- Satin nude cream

Sin- Shimmered champagne

Naked- Matte nude brown

Sidecar- Golden beige with sparkle

Buck- Matte medium brown

Half Baked- Golden bronze with sparkle

L-R: Smog, Darkhorse, Toasted, Hustle, Creep, Gunmetal

Smog- Shimmered dark bronze

Darkhorse- Shimmered dark golden brown

Toasted- Shimmered rosy taupe

Hustle- Dark plum chocolate brown, with shimmer

Creep- Shimmered soft black

Gunmetal- Shimmered metallic dark grey

I would not expect any less from Urban Decay, when it comes to the quality of the eyeshadows. They all apply smoothly, blend easy, and are greatly pigmented. The only two colors that I had somewhat of an issue with were, Sidecar and Half baked. While applying, I experienced some fallout under my eyes. But, I guess it is understandable being as both eyeshadow colors are sparkles, and contain small glitters in them. 

Good Karma Eyeshadow Brush

The good karma eyeshadow brush is pretty nice. It packs on the color nicely on the lids, thanks to the sturdiness and semi-stiffness of the soft brush hairs. Another great feature of the brush is that it is cruelty-free! YAY! Cruelty-Free products are always a great thing.

Overall, I am really happy with the Urban Decay Naked Palette. I think it is a breakthrough product, that is likely in most makeup collections all around the world. And rightfully so. 

What do you all think of the Naked Palette? 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use.

Product Rave: Urban Decay Baked Bronzer-Toasted

Hey Dolls,

I hope you are all keeping cool out there. We are going through a massive heat wave here, in New York City. It is no joke out there. I think I am going to be staying in all weekend, enjoying the cool air of my air conditioner. And I am also going to make sure that I drink lots of water, in order to stay hydrated during these warm days.

I can't believe that I have waited this long to talk to you all about what may possibly be, my HG bronzer. Now, I love Urban Decay for their eyeshadows and eye primers, but their bronzer is knocking my socks off! I am talking about none other than the Urban Decay Baked Bronzer in Toasted ($26.00).

(click all images to enlarge)

Urban Decay Baked Bronzer-Toasted

I want to first point out that the packaging for the Urban Decay baked bronzers, have seemed to changed. I purchased this bronzer a few months ago, and now on the Sephora website, I am seeing that the case design is not the same anymore. No worries though because, the formula still remains the same. I remember when I picked this up, that Toasted was the last one on the display, so I probably got one of the last ones before they restocked again, with the updated packaging and design.

It's no secret that I am a huge bronzer fan. I think it does wonders for the face. Toasted is probably one of the most smoothest textured bronzers, I have ever encountered. Once you all experience the easy blendability, it will blow you away! This, bronze color is just perfect to give my face a natural looking glow. I even like using Toasted as a contour color, from time to time, and it works just as well for that purpose.
I actually like that this tera cotta disk, baked bronzer is matte because the look it gives me, appears that much more natural. Don't get me wrong, I like shimmer in my face products, but sometimes I want to branch out and go the matte-route.

I do pick up a tiny hinge of orange in Toasted but luckily, it is not overly noticeable once applied. Once blended, the color works wonderfully to add a healthy warmth to the cheeks. If you want a natural looking dose of color to your face, and prefer matte bronzers, toasted will certainly not disappoint.

What do you all think of Toasted? What are your favorite bronzers? 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product for my personal use. 

Product Rave: Make Up For Ever Eyeshadows

When it comes to high pigmented eyeshadows, Make Up For Ever knows how to do it well. I don't have many Make Up For Ever Eyeshadows ($19.00), but I am happy to say that I have not been disappointed with any of the ones I do have. The pigmentation, smooth blend-ability and texture, just wows me every time. The packaging is very sleek, and contains a magnetic closure. I appreciate the window strip on the cover, which allows me to see the eyeshadow color.

I love how many different colors, and finishes are available. When I stop by the Make Up For Ever eyeshadow display at Sephora, I am always overwhelmed with the many options available. I just want them all, LOL! I have four matte shadows, and one frosty shimmered kind. The only thing I am not fond of is the hefty $19 price tag. I think that actually may be the reason why my Make Up For Ever eyeshadow collection is building up slower than usual, hahaha!

In the pictures below, I think it's pretty obvious that I am a fan of Make Up For Ever's bright eyeshadow colors. They are phenomenal. I can't rave about them enough!

(click all images to enlarge)

Clockwise Form Top (blue): 167, 75, 92, 2, 9

Left To Right: #2, #9, #167

Left To Right: #75, #92

Swatches From Left To Right: 2, 9, 167, 75, 92

#2: Matte Yellow- I don't usually wear yellow eyeshadow, but I could not pass this one up. I like that this color is sort of like a more muted down bright yellow, instead of being an 'in your face' yellow. I like to pair this color with bronze eyeshadows. It makes for a pretty combination!

#9: Matte Lavender- Very pretty color that is a must for purple eyeshadow lovers. I like to use this color to blend out any harsh lines in the crease, when I do a purple smokey eye.

#167: Shimmered Frosty, Medium Blue- On the Sephora website, this color is described as an "iredescent true blue", and I could not agree more. So pretty! I love that sheen-like effect it gives when it hits just the right light angle. 

#75: Matte, Hot Pink- This was actually my first ever Make Up For Ever eyeshadow, and it's my most favorite. #75 is definitely the brightest pink eyeshadow color that I own. This eyeshadow is so pigmented, that it has the ability to stain my lids.

#92: Matte Deep Purple- I think it is safe to say that this is probably one of Make Up For Ever's more popular eyeshadow colors. If you are looking for a pop of deep purple, #92 will not let you down. Love to use this color for creating purple, smokey eye looks.

Do any of you like Make Up For Ever eyeshadows? What are your favorite shades?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased these shades for my personal use.

Product Review: Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat

The crackle nail polish look has been all the buzz for the past few months. I am now finally familiarizing myself with this crackle nail polish craze. On my most recent trip to Target, I saw a Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat ($6.29) nail polish display, and I couldn't help but pick one up to try out and take home with me. There was a generous selection of colors and finishes-pink, silver, white, purple, and gold. I ended up choosing the creamy, black shade-Ink Splatter. Now that I think of it, I should have picked up the white one as well.

(click all images to enlarge)

Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat-Ink Splatter

I love the packaging. The bottle is pretty cute, especially with the crackle-embossed top, brush handle. When it comes to the application, don't add a second coat, and remember that semi-thin coats are the way to go. When I tried applying a thicker coat, I did not get the crackle effect. I ended up getting messy-looking, thin and thick streaks of black polish on my nails, instead. 

I do wish that the nail brush would have been a bit wider, though. The nail brush is skinny and long in length, and because of that, it won't allow me to cover the whole nail in one swipe. I usually have to dip the brush into the polish a second time, in order to cover the other half of the nail bed. Once applied, the polish literally starts to crackle before your eyes in seconds. It's a really cool process to observe. 

Flash

No Flash, Direct Sunlight

In the swatch pictures above, I applied Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat in Ink Splatter over Essie Lapiz Of Luxury nail polish (3 coats). No clear topcoat added, by the way. It dries fairly quick, to a semi-shiny finish. I really appreciate that the crackle color does not appear dull once dried. The black color is still rich in pigment. I don't know why but, I thought that the color was going to have a matte finish.

Here is another nail swatch of Ink Splatter Crackle Overcoat, over Color Club Nail Polish in Lazer Pink (2 coats, no clear topcoat). I just love how pink and black nails look, when both colors are paired together!

Other than the tricky application, I think this crackle nail polish by Sally Hansen was a nice intro to the coolness that is crackle nail polishes. You may want to check out Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat if you are looking to add some fun to your nail look.

What do you all think of Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat? Have you tried them?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased this product, for my personal use.

Product Review: Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

Hey Dolls,

I recently reviewed the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer, and now it's time to let you all know how I feel about the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation ($7.99). I know this review is long overdue, but I really wanted to get a feel for this foundation. I have sensitive, acne prone skin, and as always with new products, I was a bit worried that it would break me out. I have been using this foundation for about 5 months now and luckily for me, I have fallen in LOVE with this foundation. So much so, that it has become one of my HG drugstore foundations.

(click all images to enlarge)

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation, shades 120 and 210

Left To Right: Classic Ivory (120) and Sandy Beige (210)

Swatches From Left To Right: 120, 210

Here are some quick facts about the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation: (source)

1. Oil and Wax Free

2. Contains an SPF of 18

3. Non Comedogenic, and it's dermatologist tested

4. Contains "lightweight pigments", which let's your skin peek through

5. Provides a natural-looking coverage

When I first purchased this foundation, I matched myself to the shade 120, Classic Ivory. It was winter then, and my skin was much more pale. So, this shade suited me best at the time. But now that the warmer weather has arrived, I realized that 120 is much too light for me to use now, in the summertime. So I purchased the Fit Me foundation again, but this time in the shade 210, Sandy Beige. Shade 120 has more of a neutral tone (a little bit of both, pink and yellow mixed in) to it, while shade 210 is much more warmer and has more yellow tones in it. Although my skin primarily has yellow tones to it, I can get away with the 120 shade. If it helps, for reference, I am an NC25 in MAC foundations.

Initial Thoughts:

When I first saw the Maybelline Fit Me foundation display, I immediately loved the way the packaging looked. It was very sleek, and it did not look like a packaging that most drugstore foundations are carried in. I do wish though, that the foundation packaging would have contained a pump. I really am not fond of pouring out the foundation onto my hand. Sometimes I often tend to pour out more than I actually need. A pump dispenser would have been so much better because, it would allow control over how much product I want to use.

I do detect a floral-like scent in this foundation. It is a bit strong-and that's surprising of me to say because, I usually don't have such a sensitive nose. But luckily, it lessens and dissipates a few minutes after I finish blending it into my skin. The foundation formula is just perfect. It's not too runny, so there is a tiny bit of thickness in the liquid, which is nice because it ensures that there will be some sort of coverage provided.

Application:

I like to apply the Fit Me foundation with a stippling brush that contains synthetic fibers. I use the Sephora Professionnel Platinum Stippling brush, #44 ($35.00). It is a really great brush for applying liquid foundation, and this helps me better blend the Fit Me foundation into my skin, much better than other brushes I have tried. I love how this foundation is easy to blend, feels lightweight on my skin, and it does not accentuate any dry or flaky areas of the face. Fit Me foundation does not dry and set right away, so you do have a lot of time to work with it before it does. I do get a healthy, dewy-looking appearance on my face with Fit Me. I think this foundation is lovely for those who suffer from dry skin because it won't accentuate the dry areas, that other foundations may enhance. My skin is dry, acne-prone, and I have an oily T-Zone area. I am happy to report that this foundation has not broken me out. Score! 

Coverage is medium-buildable. It looks natural, and not like you have a face full of obvious foundation on. I do have acne scars-old and new, and this foundation does help blur them out a bit. But I still need to apply concealer on areas that need more coverage.

As far as lasting power goes, I think it does quite well. It is not until 3-4 hours later, when I have to powder the oily areas on my face with my trusty, MAC Blot Powder ($23.00). 

Overall, I am in LOVE with Maybelline's latest foundation. I am really happy that there is a great drugstore foundation option out there, that won't break the bank. I definitely plan to repurchase once I finish off this bottle!

What do you all think of the Maybelline Fit Me foundation? Love it? Let me know in the comments section, dolls!

P.S. Did any of you go see the last Harry Potter movie this past weekend? OMG! I LOVED it!!!! I actually want to see it again this week. LOL! What did you all think of it?

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased all the products mentioned above, for my personal use.

Beauty Crave

Hey Dolls,

TGIF! To kick start this lovely Friday, I am bringing to you all the latest edition of Beauty Crave. I am going to be sharing with you all what items are on my beauty wish-list. Is it just me, or does my beauty wish-list seem to be getting longer?! LOL!

1. E.L.F. Studio Cream Eyeiner ($3.00)- It is no secret that I am a huge fan of E.L.F. cosmetics. I think they are one of the best, affordable cosmetics line out there in the market. I love cream eyeliners. I much prefer them over, liquid eyeliners. Cream liners are just so much more easier, and smoother to apply. These cream liners from E.L.F. come in so many fun colors, not to mention the super affordable price of just $3 a pop, doesn't hurt either. I have to remember to pick this liner up at my local Target, next time I stop by. 

2. Dior Harmonie de Blush in, Rose Brazilia 001 ($44.00)- Since I was so impressed with my first Dior cosmetics experience-Dior Face Powder in Aurora, I have been lusting over more Dior products. I love the variety of shades in this blush, which helps create a more healthy and warm, pink glow. 

3. Milani Lip Flash Pencils ($6.99)- These lip flash pencils by Milani look super cute. I have yet to enter the chunky, lip pencil phenomenon. And I think these pigmented and glossy lip flash pencils by Milani, will finally help me understand their amazing capabilities when it comes to providing lovely, pigmented, and glossy lips.

4. Smashbox Anti-Shine, in Neutral ($27.00)- I think the time has come to invest in an oil-controlling, face primer. During the day, my T-zone area gets super oily. This water-based anti-shine promises to keep skin matte. I may just have to try it.

5. Chanel Les 4 Ombres De Quadra Eyeshadow, in Prelude ($57.00)- I have never owned a Chanel eyeshadow quad-the price totally scares me away. But, how perfect are these shadows for fall? All four colors compliment each other beautifully, and I can so envision all the possible neutral, smokey eyes that can be created with Prelude. 

What's on your beauty wish-list? Please, share!

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above.

Birchbox: July 2011

Hey Dolls,

Last month, I finally signed up for a Birchbox membership. For those who are not familiar with BirchBox, every month you will receive a box that contains an assortment of deluxe beauty samples. Sometimes, they may even contain a full-sized item. It's easy to sign up, and membership is only $10 a month-which I think is a great deal for the beauty samples you get. It is always great to try a product before you decide to buy it. And if you actually do end up falling in love with the sample, you can purchase the full sized item on the site as well.

Yesterday afternoon, I received my first BirchBox. The July 2011 edition of BirchBox was a special one, indeed. Fashion designer, Cynthia Rowley's has put together some of her favorite products for this month's sample box!

(click all images to enlarge)

July 2011 BirchBox

The box is super cute. I love the way everything was packaged so neatly. You could imagine my surprise when I found a Kind Fruit and Nut bar included in the box. It was the almond and apricot kind, and it is one of Cynthia's favorites. It was a healthy treat that was very delicious. 

Zoya- Shay

I was so happy to find a mini nail polish by Zoya, included in the box. And a nude colored one at that! I have seriously been on a nude polish kick, lately. Shay is part of Zoya's latest nail polish collection-Touch, which consists entirely of nude nail colors. I would describe Shay as a creamy neutral peachy-beige. It also contains very fine silver shimmers in it as well. I can't wait to try on this color. Stay tuned for an upcoming nail of the day post in where I will show swatches of Shay in action.

Philosophy- Purity Made Simple One Step Facial Cleanser 

Also included was a 1 OZ, mini Purity Cleanser from Philosophy. I have been a huge fan of this cleanser in the past. I love that it's gentle on my super sensitive, acne prone skin. Click HERE, and check out a review post I did awhile ago, on this fab cleanser. It makes me wonder why I stopped using it? I know many are fans of this cleanser from Philosophy and it's always great when you receive products that so many swear by, and that simply, work.

 Ahava- Mineral Hand Cream

This dead sea mineral infused hand cream by Ahava is lovely! I love the semi-thick consistency which works to give moisture, to even the driest of hands. This hand cream just melts into my hands. They don't feel sticky at all, just soft and supple. I am going to carry this mini-sized hand cream in my purse at all times, from now on. A great bonus is that this hand cream is allergy tested, which makes it safe for use on sensitive skin. YAY! 

Redken- Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist

Lastly, included was a 2.1 OZ size of the Redken Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist hairspray. Cynthia swears by this hairspray for all of her runway shows. This hairspray is great for adding shine to the hair, as well as finishing it off with a nice, glossy finish. Can't wait to try this hairspray!

If you lovelies have not yet signed up for a monthly BirchBox subscription, I totally suggest doing so. It is always fun to have beauty goodies, delivered right to your door!

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I am signed up for a monthly subscription to birchbox, that I have purchased.