Vacation Time!

Image via www.google.com

Hey dolls, I am writing to let you all know that posting will be back to normal and, will resume next week because, I am leaving to Puerto Rico tomorrow! I am super excited. It is my first time visiting there and, I can't wait to enjoy this getaway with the hub, friends, and family. I know it will be a great experience :)

Thanks for stopping by and, I will be sure to post loads of pictures when I come back!

Victoria's Secret Perfect Lipstick in Wish

When it comes to shopping for bras, and underwear, Victoria's Secret is usually the way to go-well, at least for me. So, it really puzzled me as to why I haven't yet explored their makeup offerings? Beats me, but the important thing is that I finally went for it. Although Victoria's Secret's beauty section contained loads of lovely items to choose from, I am one who loves lipsticks so, it was only natural that I headed straight to the lipstick display. While there, I decided on Victoria's Secret Perfect Lipstick in Wish ($13.00). Take a look!

Wish is a lovely soft, medium pink that contains very fine and small, golden shimmers. But, once the lipstick is applied to the lips, the shimmers aren't noticeable, at all. I also want to mention that along with the creamy finish of this lip color, you also get a lovely touch of sheen as well. Its so shiny that it appears as if a gloss was layered over it. So pretty!

The texture of this lipstick is amazing. It applied like a dream and felt super creamy and comfortable, on. I appreciate the addition of hydrating ingredients like Shea and Vitamin E, which help moisturize and condition my lips. Love! I do detect a soft, sweet vanilla scent to this lipstick. If fragrances aren't your thing, no worries, the scent dissipates rather quickly, once you apply it on the lips. 

When it comes to lasting power, I find that it is not until hour 2-3 that I need to reapply again. It does not have the best lasting abilities for me but, I honestly don't mind reapplying again for the simple fact that I could layer on this lipstick numerous times a day, and my lips will never look or feel dry. The only quirk I had with this lipstick was that it settled into the lines on my lips, a bit. As for packaging, I really like the sleek, tube that houses the lipstick. Its the perfect size to carry around in your purse, when traveling.

Overall, I think wish is a lovely lipstick. The color is right up my alley and, I love how wearable it is. I think everyone can rock it. For me, wish is perfect on those days where I don't want to fuss too much with my makeup. When I favor a more natural look, wish is the lip color that I have been reaching for. This is a really nice everyday lipstick and, I am glad I came across it. I can't wait to try other shades of Victoria's Secret Perfect Lipsticks!

What do you all think of this lip color? Have any of you tried any of Victoria's Secret lipsticks? 

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

Birchbox: March 2012

Hey dolls, I hope you are all enjoying your day. Yesterday, I finally received my March Birchbox and, I am pretty pleased with the contents that were included in my box this month. There are a few items that I would have never thought to try before so, I am happy that I now have the opportunity to do so. Take a look!

Color Club Nail Lacquer in Age of Aquarius: I love color club nail colors so, you can all imagine my excitement when I saw this mini-sized one in my box. The creamy, aqua teal green color is just perfect for the coming spring/summer. Above, I applied two coats of Age of Aquarius and I added a clear, top coat over it. This nail color went on a bit streaky at first but luckily, everything evened out beautifully when I applied coat number two. I also want to mention that this color is a bit warmer and darker in real life. My camera couldn't capture the accurate color of this polish-sorry :( St. Patrick's day is tomorrow and, I think this is the perfect mani color for the occasion. This color couldn't have arrived at a better time, LOL!

Stila Classic Smoky Eye Card: I am really excited to try these eyeshadow samples, from Stila. I have never used Stila eyeshadows but, I have heard great things about them-especially, the infamous kitten. I love how all three colors are so wearable and compliment each other well. I am sure these will look amazing against my brown eyes.

Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser: This gel cleanser contains ingredients such as aloe, cherry, and organic lemon which not only help prevent blemishes from happening but also, gets rid of impurities while gently hydrating the skin. I love how this cleanser is free from parabens, synthetic dyes, alcohol, and fragrances. I certainly can't wait to give this cleanser a try.

Lulu Organics, Lavender and Clary Sage Hair Powder: I can't believe that I don't have hair powders in my life. I know that many swear by hair powders, whenever the hair root needs a bit of refreshment, in between washes. I have dry hair but, my roots get oily very quickly so, I am looking forward to giving this hair powder a go. I hope it works out.

Harvey Prince, Yogini: This fragrance is meant to calm and soothe the mind and body with the help of notes such as sandalwood, grapefruit, and Egyptian myrrh. Smells really lovely!

Tea Forte Skin Smart Teas: I was surprised to find tea bags in my box, much less skin-benefiting ones. Not only do these green teas look delicious but, its quite interesting how each one helps target different skin concerns. The cucumber mint helps with youth recovery, the cherry marzipan one helps to repair skin, and the honey yuzu helps renew the skin. 

What did you all receive in your Birchbox this month? 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned above. I purchased a monthly subscription to Birchbox, for my personal use. 

E.L.F. Studio Brushes: Angled Foundation Brush and Mineral Powder Brush

I know, I know. More E.L.F. But, I just could not wait to share these new E.L.F. Studio, face brushes with you all. These brushes are too good to pass up! Allow me to introduce you all to the Angled Foundation brush, and the Mineral Powder brush ($3.00, each).

Angled Foundation Brush: This angled foundation brush contains soft, taklon bristles that feel amazingly soft on the skin. Although this brush is meant for liquid foundation, I haven't been using it for that purpose. When it comes to applying foundations, I much prefer to use my beauty blender sponge, stippling brush, or a flat top brush. But, I have been using this brush loads for applying and blending out concealer, under my eye area and on certain areas of my face. I absolutely love how easily it gets the job done. The fact that this brush is angled is great because, it helps me comfortably blend the concealer in hard to reach, curved areas. Love!

Mineral Powder Brush: This brush is just phenomenal. Its probably my favorite out of the two. I really like how tightly packed the round dome, soft taklon bristles are, in the ferrule. The brush is semi-dense, but definitely fluffy as well. Its a great combination, I think. I have been using this brush to not only contour but, to also apply my blush with. This brush blends my cheek products beautifully and, I also love how the small brush head allows me to get precise application, when I contour. Its so easy to concentrate the product just where you want it. It sort of reminds me of the MAC 109 brush.

I have washed both brushes since I got them and, I am happy to report that I experienced absolutely no shedding during the process. As for drying time, I found that the mineral powder brush was completely dry in about 3-4 hours. But the angled foundation brush needed to be left out overnight, for it to dry properly. Once both brushes were dry, they still remained as soft as ever, and they didn't lose their shape. I think the quality is definitely there when it comes to these brushes. They look sleek, feel sturdy and, I can see these lasting a long time.

Overall, I am really pleased with both of these brushes and I am happy that these treasures are the newest additions to my makeup brush arsenal. If you are looking for affordable, nice quality face brushes, I suggest giving these a closer look. You might just love them as much as I do.

What do you all think of these brushes, from E.L.F.? Which are your favorite E.L.F. makeup brushes?

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

Review: E.L.F. Cover Everything Concealer in Light and Medium

Hey dolls! I hope you are all doing well and enjoying your day :) Today I have another new product from E.L.F. to share with you all. When I first saw that E.L.F. released a new concealer-and a cream one at that, I didn't waste any time ordering it. I picked up two shades of E.L.F.'s Cover Everything Concealer ($2.00, each) in light, and medium. I couldn't decide between the two when I saw the shades online so ultimately, I chose to buy the two color choices that I thought would best suit me. At $2.00 a pop, I didn't really mind it. There are four color choices to choose from, by the way. Corrective yellow, light, medium, and tan. 

Light, Medium

Light

Medium

Top To Bottom: Medium, Light

Light: Neutral cool beige (would probably be a good match for those who are NC15-NC20, in MAC terms)

Medium: Semi-warm, neutral peachy beige (would probably be a good match for those who are NC25-NC35, in MAC terms)

Luckily for me, both concealer shades worked out for me, when it came to using them for different purposes. For my NC25 skin tone, the light shade-even though the swatch picture above might show otherwise, is a tad too light for me to use on scars and blemishes so, I actually prefer to apply the light shade under my eyes, or on the bridge of my nose, to brighten up those areas a bit more. The medium shade is the best match for me, seeing as my face is a bit warmer than the rest of my body. I have yellow tones in my skin so, I was quite surprised at how well this shade matched me. It does not look obvious or orange at all, on me. 

I think the medium shade is great for my discolored eye area because, the peach tones help neutralize and cover up the darkness and unevenness I have. I can get away with using just this concealer alone or, if I really want some extra coverage, I first use my yellow corrector-Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Neutralizer, and then apply E.L.F.'s Cover Everything Concealer in medium on top. Either way, I am very pleased with the end result. If you check out the before and after pictures directly below, you will see the coverage I obtained. (I applied the E.L.F. Cover Everything Concealer in medium all around my eye area, and then set it with a translucent loose powder).

  Before (left): Bare Eye

                                                  After (right): Concealer Applied/Set With Powder                                      

So, what do you think about the coverage? I think the concealer did a pretty good job at concealing my dark under eye circles and lid discoloration. The concealer has a smooth consistency that helps it blend like a dream. I also found that it did not settle or enhance any fine lines or dry areas, which is a major bonus. I have a really oily eye area so a setting powder for me is an absolute requirement-especially when it comes to cream-based products. If not, then this concealer will start to crease up on me in no time.

As for how it fares when it comes to concealing blemishes and acne scars, I think it does pretty good in that department, as well. I am currently switching back and forth between two foundations at the moment-Maybelline's Fit Me and, MAC's Matchmaster. Both foundations offer me medium-buildable coverage but, they can never completely cover up the acne scarring or blemishes I have on my cheeks and jawline. Concealer is definitely a must. I applied the E.L.F. Cover Everything concealer in medium on my problem areas in patting motions, and I found that it did actually help blur out the areas and make them less noticeable. I wouldn't necessarily say that the results were full coverage. More like, medium. Lasting power wasn't too bad. I noticed a bit of fading and very minimal creasing, around the 4-5 hour mark. Not really a huge problem because this concealer is so easy to layer on. It never makes areas appear dry or cakey so one can comfortably layer on as much product as needed, whenever.

As I mentioned before, I really do enjoy the smooth consistency of these. I am going to go so far as to say that, these are probably one of the most creamiest concealers that I have tried so far. They blend easily into my skin and most importantly, they are lightweight and don't feel heavy on, like most cream concealers tend to feel. As for the packaging, I think the clean and simple look of the compact is cute even though it feels really flimsy and not very reliable.

Overall, I am so happy that I gave these concealers a try and, I of course, will be repurchasing again. Probably not the light shade, but definitely the medium one. I honestly didn't expect to like this concealer as much as I do. What a nice surprise! If you are looking for a creamy, lightweight concealer that offers nice medium coverage, I can't recommend these enough. And, who doesn't love the affordable $2.00 price tag? I just love great bargain finds :) 

Have any of you tried E.L.F.'s Cover Everything Concealer? Which are your favorite concealers?

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

Review: E.L.F. Flawless Eyeshadows in Golden Goddess and Tantalizing Taupe

While browsing the E.L.F. website last week, I noticed that they released some new items. These Flawless eyeshadow quads being one of them. I was immediately intrigued so, I decided to order a few to try out. The two that I chose to try were Golden Goddess, and Tantalizing Taupe ($2.00, each).

Golden Goddess

L-R: Base, Lid, Crease, Line (swatched over eyeshadow primer) 

Golden Goddess

Base: Cool beige with golden shimmers

Lid: Shimmered, medium gold

Crease: Bronze apricot with golden shimmers

Line: Medium brown with golden shimmers

Tantalizing Taupe

Bottom To Top: Base, Lid, Crease, Line (swatched over eyeshadow primer)

Tantalizing Taupe

Base: Beige with a hint of pink, satin

Lid: Cool brown with shimmers

Crease: Warm medium golden brown with shimmers

Line: Dark brown matte

I was really excited when I received these eyeshadow quads. The colors were right up my alley and, they seemed to be promising. For the most part, I really like these. The shadows have a decent amount of pigmentation and, they look really soft and quite lovely on. I have oily lids so, eyeshadow primer is a must for me. I find these to last a good few hours on before they start to fade-over eye primer, of course. One of the issues that I encountered with these had to do with their texture. The shadows, although quite soft, were all very powdery. But, on the plus side, they did go on smooth and were all very easy to blend. Also, I do wish that the eyeshadow pans were a tad wider in size. Only because I feel that there really isn't much space to comfortably fit my eyeshadow brush inside, and pick up the shadow onto the brush. But, its really not a major deal-breaker. I can deal.

I do like the look of the rectangular, compact case. It's simple, it securely snaps shut, the top lid has a see through window which lets one easily see what colors are inside, and it includes a small mirror as well as a double-ended sponge tip applicator-great for when one is traveling and on the go. Even though I like the look of the compact, I do think it is quite flimsy. I definitely wouldn't want to accidentally drop these. 

I love how the eyeshadow colors compliment eachother. Its basically a no-brainer when it comes to deciding which colors to pair together. Each of the shadows contain imprints on them that act as a guide on where to place them on the eye. I always think features like this are a nice touch because, its really convenient for those who are just starting out with eyeshadow application. Guides are always appreciated. Of course, you don't necessarily have to follow them-remember, makeup is supposed to be fun. There are no rules! These remind me of the Wet n' Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Trios because, those contain guide imprints on the shadows as well. 

Overall, if you are one who favors major, in-your-face pigment when it comes to eyeshadows, these aren't for you as I think you will be left wanting more. But, if you like soft colors with pretty shimmers as an added touch, you will definitley love these. I think these Flawless Eyeshadow Quads are pretty cool. They are inexpensive, have good lasting power and personally, I am content with the amount of pigmentation these have. It is definitely workable. I also love shimmered eyeshadows so, the fact that these contain shimmers score major points with me. Its not shimmer-overload, though. The amount is perfect, I think. I will definitely be picking up a few more quads to try in the near future.

Have any of you tried the E.L.F. Flawless Eyeshadow Quads?

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

Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lip Colors: Dollhouse Pink, Purty Persimmon

Since I had a nice experience with the previous Mega Last Lip Colors that I reviewed not too long ago, I decided to pick up a few more shades to try out. These two colors that I am going to show you today are new additions to the Mega Last Lip Color Line. Let's take a look at Dollhouse Pink and Purty Persimmon ($1.99, each). 

Left To Right: Purty Persimmon, Dollhouse Pink

Dollhouse Pink

Purty Persimmon

Top To Bottom: Purty Persimmon, Dollhouse Pink

Dollhouse Pink: Blue based, semi-cool, medium pink

Purty Persimmon: Yellow toned, orange/red

Both of these bright and bold lip colors go on opaque, and provide a creamy finish that have a nice touch of shine, to go along. The texture of these is OK. I noticed that purty persimmon went on much more smoother than dollhouse pink did. Also, make sure that before you apply these, your lips are smooth and prepped because, both have the tendency to enhance any dryness or flakes that you may have. Dollhouse pink especially, enhanced the dryness on my lips, more than purty persimmon did. 

I think the tube packaging looks nice but I think it could use a little work. What really irks me is that somehow, I always seem to nick the lipsticks every time I try and put the cap back on. And I am so careful too! I wish the lipsticks would twist all the way down so the nicking problem could be easily avoided.

Overall, I think these lip colors are nice to have, and are worth picking up a few of. They are inexpensive, opaque, last a good while on, and there are a lot of fun shades available to suit a variety of tastes. Who doesn't love that?

What do you all think of Wet n' Wild's Mega Last Lip Colors? Which shades are your favorite?

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

NARS Luster Blush

I finally decided to purchase my very first NARS blush! Although all of the blush shades in NARS's blush line are lovely, I was intent on Luster ($28.00). Something about it just drew me in. When I was swatching the blush shades over at Sephora, I could not get over how gorgeous the color of Luster was. I was sold. Even Jonathan (the hub, and my favorite shopping companion) liked it.

Ingredients

Luster is a semi-warm golden peach, that contains small, fine golden shimmers. I love the golden tones because, it adds that soft touch of warmth to my cheeks that I really love. I love everything about Luster. From the sleek, mirrored compact packaging, to its smooth texture that makes blending a dream. Not to mention, its impressive long lasting power.

I find that Luster is a color that compliments my skin tone, quite nicely. In fact, I think this color is one that would look lovely on a variety of complexions. I can't wait to sport this color for summer, when my skin warms up a bit. I just know its going to look amazing with a tan. But even now, that I am a bit pale, Luster looks just as good. 

Its also an appropriate color to sport for either day, or night. Apply a light layer to achieve a natural looking hint of warmth for daytime, or build up the golden peach intensity for nighttime. Either way, Luster just simply works and never looks overdone. 

I am glad that I added this beauty to my makeup arsenal and, I am looking forward to adding more of NARS's blushes to my stash. I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Currently, I have my eye on the infamous Orgasm blush. What do you all think? Is it a shade worth picking up, or is it over hyped? 

Which NARS blushes are your favorites?

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

My Favorite Accessories

I wanted to take a little break from talking about beauty and, post something a bit different. I am going to share with you all the accessories that I most frequently wear, and love. These items that I am about to show you are absolute staples for me. These just simply work with everything. My favorite store to shop for accessories is Forever 21. I think they carry a lot of affordable and interesting pieces that cater to different tastes. All of the items, except for the watch, are ones that I have purchased at forever 21, over these past few months/year(s). And I still love them till this day :) 

Check out my picks!

Earrings

I can't live without hoop earrings. They work for everyday and, I think they frame my face quite nicely. When it comes to hoop earrings I look for ones that feel lightweight, on. I have purchased hoop earrings in the past that pull my ear lobes down because of how much they weigh. Its a really uncomfortable feeling, not to mention unflattering. I got these hoops a few months ago. and if I remember correctly, each pair was $1.50. A major bargain!

When I want to dress it up a bit for a night out, dangling chandelier earrings are a must. They frame the face beautifully and I think they look great with up-do, or ponytail hair styles. 

Necklaces

I absolutely love necklaces that contain long chains. I love to sport them when I am going for a more casual look for day. I mainly look for necklaces that contain some sort of personality to them, like these two have. For instance, the boldness of the large, beautiful turquoise stone, and the delicacy of the horse. 

Bracelets

I love bangles and, the stacked pink and gold ones you see above, are no exception. I think they have an antique look to them, which makes them really interesting. But my most favorite bangle would have to be the black and gold one. I sport it constantly and, its definitely one of those great finds that I really treasure. 

Watch

I was shopping for a watch that I could sport everyday, that looked chic, sophisticated, and of course, that contained a little shine. When I saw this stainless steel Fossil watch over at Macys, I didn't think twice about taking it home with me. I like that it contains both the gold and silver tones, as well as some gorgeous crystals, that instantly add that glam factor.

Ring

This is is my favorite cocktail/statement ring. It works for both day, and night. The richness and vibrancy of the colors are just stunning. Plus, the gorgeous flower image makes this piece interesting, and extra special. 

Which accessories are your staples? Where do you like to shop for accessories?

Thanks for stopping by, dolls. Have a Goodnight! Be back soon :) 

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