Lil Lady's Life

Spring Wardrobe Wish List

2012-02-13T18:00:00.000-08:00

I went shopping today (surprise surprise) I bought ALMOST nothing, but have been recently been looking more into clothes than make up. I noticed:

1. Clothes are ALOT more expensive than make up, ALOT

2. Pastels and spring colors have EXPLODED on the shelves

Here are the items I am currently on the hunt for to complete my spring wardrobe!

Colored Jeans

Sperry's

Aviator Raybans

Waterfall Skirts

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Tulip shirts

The PERFECT striped button down

and loose white blouses

I saw the below blouse in person today, $118!!! WHAT!?

Still looking...

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Gold hair accessories

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What is on your Spring Wardrobe List?

I thought I was being SO Good

2012-02-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

I was thinking to myself today how much less I have been buying and was about to give myself a pat in the back, but when looking around my desk all I see are brand new boxes @.@ proud of myself?? I must have amnesia!

I think another P10P is going to be in coming the near future, the madness has to stop!!

But more on that later...

Firstly, the weekly update!

I purposely waited for a taxi to pass by to make the photo more iconic! haha

Instagram has been my new hobby and boarder line obsession of the week. Unfortunately the app HATES me. It only uploads about 1/2 my photos :(

I still try like crazy!! If you follow me on twitter and see me repeat pictures, I'm sorry my program is on the fritz!!

Best message of the week

Best face I saw this week (love everything about this photo!)

Best Win of the Week

The NY Giants!

Best find of the week: mm follow Twitter reccs!!

Thank you EllaMarie84! I remembered :)

Best display of the week: (An instagram fail!)

Best story of the week:

On Friday, my boyfriend and I were awaiting our dinner reservations and passed by the skating rink in Rockefeller Center. All the patrons were asked to be removed from the ice ( I assumed it was time to clean the ice) NOPE! Surprise proposal!!!

In front of everyone! I'm sure everyone got very lovey dovey photos of the happy couple!

I took their photo but the couple was a blurr :(

Walking through the Top of the Rock building (ANOTHER instagram fail)

Best ceiling of the week!!

Food from dinner:

Havanna Cafe ( I would not go back...)

Best dish of the week: mmmmm

Some Indian Chili Chicken dish

Now back to the amnesia gathering I had collected over the last few weeks:

Well at least now, you guys are prepped for what products I have been playing with and expect a few product reviews! ;)

That's it from me! I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Everyone ready for Monday?? hehe

In Sight In Mind

2012-02-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

I get asked every month how I am able to finish so many products in my monthly empties posts. While I am contemplating a full post on how I am able to finish so many things ( I actually have no idea on what to write for that post) I thought I would share how I finish my lippies.

1. Look through your collection and pick out things that are sample sized, items that are half done, or items that are close to expiration

2. Pull those specific lip products out, and take the rest of your collection and put it away. In a dark deep drawer, that is out of sight, out of mind.

3. Take the selected few and put them in a visable place. Interchange them in your everyday make up bag, interchange them for date night, interchange them for the night out with the girls, but keep within the small rotation.

( Try to pick a semi variety)

4. Use those few selected lippies every single time you apply a lip product. If you picked a varied enough rotation, and wearable shades (which most of us love to collect) you can probably wear them to just about any occasion.

I typically just pick one, finish it, and go on to the next one, but feel free to swap out, it's important not to feel suffocated with limited choices

5. Try layering products. Maybe a lipstick you are trying to use up looks great under a lipgloss that is also in the rotation, 2 uses in 1

6. Don't feel suffocated with your less limited choices. If it's a special occasion and you want to whip out Russian Red, do it. Enjoy it, smile! but the next day, let's put it away and get on with what we are trying to accomplish

7. Eventually all your lippies in your rotation will run low, and you can get bored, but the excitement of almost finishing things, tends to push me to finish it up. I hope this is a phenomenon we all share ;)

8. Rekindle your love for a product that was lost in your back drawers, you purchased it for a reason, because you liked it. Now it's time to use it and remember why

(Current Rotation) R to L: Ample Pink, Lancome Flush, Rimmel Airy Fairy, Tarte Lip Surgance in Enchanted, Dior Lipgloss in 456 (not pictured, it's a peach), NARS Dolce Vita L/S (Not pictured)

Al wearable for all occasions

I generally do this kind of set up with most of my make up, and eventually just end up finishing things. I do rotate out items before I finish them because sometimes it just takes too long, weather changes, skin conditions, and moods change. But I always end up bringing it back in my rotation!
But since lip products are more semi easy to get through, let's finish a few, get the motors going, and keep the adrenaline high on finishing product after product.

Believe me, it's a satisfying feeling!

*Fun fact* I collect Starbucks cups from all over the world. This mini one came from a co worker who visited the Philippines and its just perfect to house my lip glosses :)

Incorporating your collections for storage also makes things personal and fun

Starting to Move and being "Realistic"

2012-02-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

*GENERAL DISCLAIMER*

I am writing the below and potential future posts based on personal experience. I am not a dietitian, nutritionist, or personal trainer.

I am trying not to sound like a preacher but a person who really did have to start moving to see a difference.

A person who does not have an incredible metabolism, and born to be consistently 99lbs. (or even close)

I am person who has to maintain a certain lifestyle to fit into her clothes.

I am writing this in the point of view of not a know it all, or someone better than you, but actually of someone who has probably been there, and is trying to reach higher for herself and no one else.

These posts are the very few lessons I absorbed, which I did not learn from reading diet books( to which I have a personal library of) nor from watching a 80's - P90X DVD's in spandex ( which I have also admit tingly tried)

but a person who wished someone just told her these simple things to realize how physical change actually happens

If this is not a topic you are not interested in, please feel free to skip the post :)

Many people every year decide "This is the year I'm going to get healthy"

Many people also make the resolution "This is the year I'm going to lose X lbs"

I can assure you, a majority of people in the latter half of that sentence never reach the goal. Some do, but many have greater reasons. Health problems, Dr's orders, nagging wife, etc. to those, I applaud, but for everyone else, it's ok. You are in the majority.

Whether your goals are losing weight or getting overall fit. Realism needs to be factored in.

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For people who haven't " worked out" since HS gym and immediately think to themselves, "How long ago was that…"

You have to be "realistic"

Many people come up with an incredible fantasy number in their head of their "ideal" weight loss amount. It seems the general consensus is, "if I was X lbs lighter, life would be better"

I too have fallen into this mindset numerous times and often still do. Especially in the dressing room. Thank you inventor of the skinny jean

It can occurs at various points in a person's life

Maybe you just had your baby and thought miraculously 30 lbs would fly off, but your baby was only 8lbs…yeah, that math works

An upcoming wedding and photos that last a lifetime and beyond

Not being able to run with your kids

Or an incredibly rude comment that makes you realize…

"It's time for a change" and this time you mean it.

Something pushed you over the edge, and this time it's for real.

Some people go so far as to get brand new gym equipment, buy machinery, rent tapes, order DVD's and enter into a costly gym membership.

" If I buy all this stuff, I'll be motivated to go!"

You go a few times, you feel embarrassed of your shape next to the body builders, and huff and puff your way through a treadmill work out, and stare at machinery you have no idea how to use but don't want to look like a fool by asking, so you Google it on your phone in private desperation

Fast forward two months, and find yourself not much lighter, and you have given up. The gym equipment is becoming a clothes rack, and the only thing about the gym you see is the monthly fee on your credit card statement. "Oh yeah…"

Suddenly losing "X" lbs flies out the window followed with Easter marshmallows, Birthday Cakes, 4th of July BBQ's, and then the holidays begin. You may attempt some kind of of gym relapse before summer starts but the gym is packed with a swarm of people who have come to the same realization. You just cant deal with the crowds so down is attempt two. Before you know it, the year it over, and the resolution becomes a repeat the following year.

The above scenario does not happen to everyone, but those are the people who didn't mean it.

I'm sure many were motivated, but they were not ready to commit.

This is where being realistic comes in. You have to know yourself, you have to be ready for change, and really actually be ready.

To be successful you can't do it for someone else, it has to be YOU who wants change. Once you are actually ready to commit, change will come.

People who are successful in gaining health, create healthy habits, continually attempt to try, and just keep going. ( Google habits of healthy people, you will find similar traits)

The scale may move, it may not. The weights may not get heavier for months, and after 2 months you may still huff and puff at the 1 mile mark but guess what?

You ARE getting better. If you did not keep trying you wouldn't know your starting point, and wouldn't strive to to be a bit better next time.

People who are successful at gaining fitness every year, always just keep trying. You are not competing with the person next to you, or that family member who competes in marathons weekly. This is your pace. Stop looking around at people who are better in races, or skinnier in clothes. There is always going to be another person like that. It's a big world! That's their life,not yours.

By striving to just be better, to be healthier, to be a little more conscious of food. All that adds up in 1 year. Just because you do or do not reach your fantasy weight does not mean you failed.

You are just not there yet.

Some people like goals and time frames so they have something to strive for, and for some people that works. It doesn't work for everyone.

There is a difference between going to the gym and sitting on a Bicycle for 2 hours on the 2nd lowest reading "Glamour" and actually going on a machine and trying for 20 minutes until your legs burn.

Person 1 says I went to the gym for 2 hours, how come I'm not losing weight? -- this person needs to try harder and get real. ( Please note this comment is for people are of able bodied and not suffering from past injury or health issues)

Person 2 did not stay as long, but tried harder. They may not expect change after just 20 minutes, but at least they tried and are realistic about it.

Once it is absorbed in your mind and actually decomposed to the simple fact, it just seems crystal clear.

This year I'm going to TRY and be REALISTIC about the changes that will come forth.

People who have this mantra in their head and actually follow it, will notice changes do come. Not always in #'s on scales, but in reaching past your previous running pace, in lifting all your families grociers without help, in being able to run up the stairs when the elevators break without huffing and puffing, to be able to open jam jars!

Look for these things, realize these things, and notice small improvements. Now you will also realize " I'm healthier, and life is better for it!"

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Finished Products of January 2012

2012-02-09T18:43:00.000-08:00

2012 Finished Products Month 1!! Who missed these??

Hmm not as big of a pile this month, but don't worry the February bag has already started :)

Body Care

Bath and Body Works Shower Gel in Cotton Blossom: Purchased this scent on a recommendation from a friend. This is where scents really depends on the person...she loves this. Every time I used it I thought it smelled like I was in a Washing Machine...smelled like a Laundry Mat to me, so no repurchasing in the future...

Fresh Citron de Vigne Body Lotion: Part of a gift set. This is nice, smelled great, but too expensive in the full size to re purchase

Neutrogena Body Wash: Love this still in 2012! I am currently using a different wash for after the gym and it's no where NEAR as good as this! will be coming back to this soon!!

Skin Care

Kevin Beauty Maker Moisturizing Foam Cleanser: Smells nice, all his products smell nice. Foams nicely but it in all honesty, this was absolutely nothing special. I never used it on it's own I used it after using a make up remover to remove all residue. Would not repurchase especially since you have to order this online to obtain. Not worth it.

Avene Thermal Water: Ahh this ran out SO FAST! It's just mineral water in a spray can but I think it actually did something! Once I stopped using it and went on to my next toner, my skin was not as bright and broke out a bit. Maybe I need more simplicity and French mineral water sprays in my life... I would repurchase but it runs out so fast...

Eye Care

Origins Ginzing: You can read a more thorough review here. But in short, will not be repurchasing. Quite a bit of hype for reasons I don't really get, it does not surpass OK status for me

Boscia Amino Eye Cream: Wow...not impressed. Does not do anything. Feels very similar to Vaseline for the eyes. Did not notice any improvement in any fine lines, moisturization, hydration, ANYTHING REALLY. Glad this was a sample.

So... I am currently OUT of wrinkle eye cream and on the search for a new one. Recommendations?

Make up

Laura Mercier Mineral Primer: These samples last FOREVER. 1 Fl oz! I have tried a few of Laura Mercier primers and have found each of them to be great. This particular one is designed for mineral foundation. I wore this both under mineral and liquid foundation and saw no difference in performance. I did not see anything to make it distinguishable for mineral make up. If they ever ran out of the oil free primer, I would just buy this without any thought. To me, they are quite comparable. I believe Laura Mercier makes excellent primers as they are not silicone based which I hate, but water/gel and based.

Make Up Forever Smokey Lash: Wow, great, beautiful, amazing, insert more positive adjectives here. Really delivers beautiful thick black lashes that holds a curl. Too bad this tube dried out in a month. Loved it but wow the price for 4 weeks?? And I don't even wear mascara daily, so this would not be a repurchase for me, but if you ever feel like a lil bit of spoiling, this mascara is QUITE nice.

Dior Show Mascara: Honestly I don't recall this being very special at all. I threw this in the finished bag because it's sooo old. I don't remember enjoying this because the brush was ridiculously big, and I would not repurchase.

Barry M Lipgloss in 02 Toffee: Quite possibly my favorite drugstore lip gloss ever, and probably in my top 2 lip glosses period. Loved the smell, the color, the subtle shimmer, the price. I rely on ASOS for back ups of this baby! I have a back up and will repurchase!!

Fresh Citron de Vigne: The main piece of the Fresh set I purchased a few months ago. I loved the scent of this. I thought it was so fresh and lady like at the same time. The downer, it lasts about 35 seconds on the skin then *POOF* gone! Where did it go??? I am no where near ready to leave the house...Loved this but would not buy it again due to incredibly poor lasting power.

Revlon Lip Butters Flash Review

2012-02-08T17:26:00.000-08:00

The newcomers of the drugstore lip stick aisle that are taking up a storm!

The Revlon Lip Butters!

Ok ok, maybe storm is not the right world, but there was definitely a search mission announcement when these starting to pop up in stores around the country

And ughhhh NY I love you, but why did we get these so late?? Even Canada got them before they arrived here T.T

This is really going to a flash review this time because no time to rant today! (Lucky you!)

>>>The colors are all quite springy! There are a few nudes and a few deeper shades but a majority of the collections are spring peaches and pinks

>>>The lipsticks range in opacity, some being much more like what you see in the bullet and others being sheer washes (Most are on the sheer side)

>>>They go on smoothly and have a nice shiny finish, like a potted jelly lip balm in a tube form

>>>They are unfortunately not very long lasting on my lips and if I do not eat or drink anything, they last about an hour

>>>The packaging is cute, the color of the tubes correlate to the color in the lipstick, and the tops are clear so you are able to see what color you are purchasing

>>>These do not dry my lips out, and they feel hydrating initially, but for the shades with shimmer, I do not think they hydrate my lips as much and once all the color is wiped off they do feel a bit dry with shimmer pieces on my lips (eck)

>>>These are pretty affordable and are more accessible now, the price is ok, but even better with a drugstore coupon!! Just don't buy so many at once like me! I had gone mad.

>>>I think these are great just swipe on and go products for spring and summer!

>>>I have quite a collection of these now, and went a bit mad when I finally found them but I do regret a few of the choices, some of the colors were a bit over hyped for me, but this is due to my skin coloring, and personal preference

My favorite shades are Candy Apple, Peach Parfait, and Berry Smoothie

Sweet Tart seems like a fun one for summer!

Swatches

L to R: Creamsicle, Peach Parfait, Sweet Tart, Berry Smoothie, Tutti Fruity, Candy Apple, Cherry Tart

Now to try the Maybelline Baby Lips!!!

Hope you liked my super flash review!

My Everyday MAC Quad

2012-02-07T17:29:00.000-08:00

I am having trouble deciding in which order to post my blog posts in a daily order.

Then inspiration came in, the gorgeous and wonderful Ebru posted her favorite eye shadows and I smiled because we shared two :)

Eye shadows...I am on the fence about. I wear them, I think because I have them! I think so long as I have any random shimmery champagne ish color I would be ok for the rest of my life ( IF I REALLY had to just have one)

But I like choices, even among things that are not my favorite

Current choices of late are my from my MAC palette

I had not worn MAC shadows in months...I felt bad. All of them in their palettes tucked away in the dark. I decided to bring some out in a quad and start showing them some love again. Here are some of my current go to colors.

Brule: (Top Left) I have tried a few MAC highlight shades, many to incredibly bad success. I finally just settled on Brule which is a matte and quite creamy. There is not exactly much to say about it! Matte and off white cream. Soft, and easy. Blended daily with a MAC 266.

All that Glitters: (Top Right) This and Sable were my first MAC purchases EVER. I was convinced I was going to love it and I still do. It's a great fall back shadow, just swipe it on almost any base and it always looks pretty! I love it alone on most days. It's a warm peachy champagne with the slightest hints that pull slightly brown and slightly pink. This is great one for all over the lid.

Mulch: (Bottom Left) Quite possibly my favorite MAC shadow with the ugliest name. It is a nice bronzy brown that has hints of red in it. It has shimmer but it is not over the top. I love wearing this on the lids and a bit under the eye with a bronzy liner such as MAC's Teddy. Instantly put together and daytime semi sultry appropriate without just going for the bright eyed look

Twinks: (Bottom Right) Twinks. Why do I like Twinks? The color is quite nice is a brown with more of a plum and slightly red undertone. I don't wear this on the lid, as it may make my eye a bit tired looking but I love using it as a liner shade. Either as a liner, or mixed with Mulch as a liner. It's quite pretty, defines the eyes, and still looks soft for daytime.

I think this particular shadow is not pressed as tightly as the others so I do experience more fall out with overall swipes but as a liner I have experienced close to no issues. I apply this with a MAC 263, ANOTHER recommendation by Ebru! Best liner brush!

L to R: Brule, All that Glitters, Mulch, Twinks

I don't do things with the crease and outer corner. Ever. I am not skilled enough but with beautiful basics, light washes, highlighted brows, and soft liner, these shadows make me love having a variety of colors outside a solitary champagne

I don't rotate shadows often but if I did, thing that would fall into my palette would include:

Naked Lunch, Hocus Pocus, Sable, Blanc Type, and Brown Down.

I am also interested in Rice Paper, if anyone has it, tell me your thoughts!

What are some of your favorite eye shadows? MAC and other wise of course!

New Things I am Excited For and Need to Try!

2012-02-06T17:29:00.000-08:00

Current things that I am dying to try!!

NARS Tinted Moisturizer

Released in Nordstrom on February 1st but will be officially released on February 15th!

I reviewed the color choices and am between the shades Alaska and St. Moritz!! Umm how different in shades do those sound??

La Mer The Eye Concentrate

I am officially out of anti wrinkle eye cream. I have not been out of anything in years. Not without some new back up or duplicate waiting in the wings. I am saving my pennies for this one. A few of my co workers use this and seem to think it's worth the price tag, we shall see.

Last but not least Chanel's Illusions d'Ombres in Emerveille and Illusoire

I love these shadows, and I really want these two shades but I just cannot justify the purchase with so many other cream shadows in my collection. The minute I finish Bare Study Paint Pot I think these will be extremely well deserved!!

Do you know how hard it is to finish a paint pot??

Last new thing I HAVE been trying and started this weekend, PINTEREST (I finally gave in)

Find my pins: http://pinterest.com/lilladylife/

On a last note, I wanted to share one thing I was FORMERLY excited for but when swatching the real thing was unbelievably dissapointed.

The Bobbi Brown Ultra Nude Eye Palette in the Newest Neon and Nudes Collection.

Have you guys swatched them? the texture was awful....

Oh well, still many more things this year to look forward to!!

What are some items you are excited to try?

Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Review

2012-02-05T15:45:00.000-08:00

The famous Soleil Tan de Chanel

Everyone knows it, it's the big Chanel bronzer in the tub, but Chanel being French, thought of a much more flattering name :)

I purchased this a few months ago but only recently have started using it, and will share my thoughts.

Texture: Best stated by Lorrain Stanick I believe. This feels like hard soap. Not the most elegant description but the best I ever heard to describe this texture. It's hard, but semi pressable. Harder than any cream cheek product I have ever seen but the deposit of color is adequate by simply "bumping" your brush onto the hard texture as opposed to the traditional swirl or swipe.

Size: It's huge. Content and mass wise. This is not a travel friendly product. It literally is a tub of bronzer. I don't think I ever would expect someone to walk around with this as a touch up product. It's just not practical! This comes with 30 grams of product and the picture above shows about 2.5 weeks of daily use. Let me re iterate, it's huge.

Price: This retails in the states for $48 dollars for 30 grams. If you do the math, it's actually not an outrageous price! The only problem is you are paying it all at once so it seems like alot of money ( it is alot of money for a bronzer) but you have to breathe in as you hand over your credit card and repeat to yourself " If I do the math, it's actually quite a deal!"

Lasting Power: This does not last all day on my hair line for some reason, but down my jawline it does. Well 11 ish hours. I do deposit more color down my cheekbones which may pro long the wear of the product but I add a more sheer layer on my hairline and chin which seem to fade in about 7 hours, with a primer underneath

The results are the same with or without powder to set

Color: This only comes in one shade. It is supposedly "Universal" I don't think this is true. This seems like the dream cream bronzer for those of fair to medium skin. Leaning more on the fair side ( personal opinion) I don't like to look "bronzed" especially in winter, but I find myself adding on quite a few layers of this stuff to get the desired effect of just warmth to my newer paler self. I am getting pale NC 20 territory and I find myself layering this. I don't see people with deeper skin tones finding this to work on their skin.

Those of you are are fair, this is AMAZING. Only if you fit into that category. This has to be the most unbelievably natural shade I have tried. When applied to my skin, since it is a cream product, it seems to blend into my skin more seamlessly than a powder and I am pretty addicted to how natural it looks and brightens my paler skin tone.

I will note that I have seen some Youtube videos on this product and in my opinion, if you are fair and apply this on camera it looks like it has an orange lean. Not all the time, but for those who are quite pale it does seem to cast some what orange.

If you are more medium skin, I do not see this being an issue, and it would look better on camera for medium skin tones

You can see in the below photos the hint of orange, this seems to be emphasized on camera and only on paler skin

In real life on my skin, it's an incredibly natural brown which I do not detect orange in once applied to my face

Bronzer on my skin after two layers with a very dense brush

Bronzer on my skin after three layers, to see how the color builds.

Again this was applied with a very dense brush

Application: It seems everyone has their own method and brush to apply this bronzer. The MAC 109 and 168 are popular but I knew they were not for me. I HATE brush hairs in my cream products. They drive me insane so I tried a few other options.

Try 1: Sephora Airbrush #55 : This was ok. It does not deposit alot of color but since the brush is not too dense this made the color application light and I would always bring it up onto my cheeks for an all over color effect, but I don't use this method often. It takes a long time to build up the color, longer than I have time for in the morning.

Try 2: The MAC 130 brush: I purchased this JUST to use with this bronzer after hearing it made quite a pair. It was ok....the brush is good, but it's small. It takes again too much time for me to build the color so I will have to find another use for this brush.

Try 3: Sigma F82, Yes I found it! A brush big enough to cover a larger area faster, and dense enough to deposit a fair amount of color in less time. A con of this brush with this product is because it is so dense you have to be careful you don't end up with two stripes going down your face and hair lines. It takes a little more arm work to get this around the face and you do have to blend it our a bit after wards to spread the color, but this is still my preferred method, for now.

You can see in the above swatch photos how richly this brush deposits the bronzer on my skin, so I do have to spend time to blend it out. It does deposit it strongly with less time needed for it to be built up

Comparison of the Sigma F82 to the MAC 130

As you can see the MAC 130 is significantly smaller and looser, so getting to larger areas of the face can take longer

In terms of application, I do the famous bump the brush on the surface method a few times and start applying it to my face. I don't deposit residual product on my hand because this is a bronzer I find I have to add layers to, so I am not afraid of it coming out too strong on the face with direct application.

Overall Thoughts: I like this bronzer, it's not my HG but I do like it. I like the color, which I think is great, and build able. I like the fact that it is not too pigmented due to the texture and application methods, because sometimes some bronzers are just too much, especially in the winter. You have to look realistic when there is a snow storm outside! This bronzer brings realism of a warmth than can be layered with ease to a real tan for summer months.

I am not in love with the fact that it seems to come across with an orange tone in photography. I hate orange bronzers, but I take solace in the fact that in real life it definetly looks brown. It looks so natural, people are not even aware I am wearing a bronzer.

Major props on that to Chanel.

Would I repurchase? Unsure...I do like it. I know it's going to last a long time, but I need more time.

That's it for my "flash" review. Hmm I should re name that. Seems a bit wordy but this is a $48 dollar investment, people need to know details!

So, tell me, have you tried the Soilel de Chanel? Do you love it? What brush do you use???

The last question is the one I would love to hear more answers to!!

Hope you all had a great weekend!!

I've linked below the song that I currently have on repeat non stop. Who doesn't love Cold Play?

Also a cover song by a Youtuber I have followed forever. Evertime I hear this song I think of my Chanel Winter Nights palette which was used in the movie this song was in, but was discontinued. So sad, isn't that crazy, that's what the song reminds me of ??

The Love Hate Relationship

2012-02-04T16:34:00.000-08:00

The gorgeous shoes in your closet that are far too high for walking past 3 steps out your front door.

That perfect pair of skinny jeans, 10 lbs ago...

That "cool" neon blue eye shadow you loved and rocked everyday in 6th grade

The delicious flakey buttery pastry you see in the bakery window after your intense gym workout

The love hate relationship

Everyone has them. You love it, you hate it, when you have it, you're so happy! but after it's like uggghhh why did I do that?

Yes ladies, it's time for me to share my love hates of make up

1. Chanel Nail Polish

The price, ouch. The shimmer, un parallel and subtle while still being unique and divine. The shade range glorious. The classic logo, that looks gorgeous on your dresser. Yes, all these add to the whole experience of owning a Chanel polish. You apply it and you feel so fancy! then it begins to chip at you. Literally. Chip, chip, chip, CHIP. After about 2 days you have just mere residual polish that looked so beautiful just a few mere days prior. Re do after just two days?? I am far too lazy for that, far too busy for that, and for $26 dollars did not expect that.

2. Loreal Voluminous

Thick, voluminous, SUPER black lashes at a drugstore price, and said to be a YSL dupe? YES PLEASE!until, the rubbing starts. The constant eye rubbing which leads to constant flaking of mascara, which leads to panda eyes, yes ladies, I seem to have eye irritations to this one :(

3. Milani Liqify Liners

Pigmented, smooth, easy to apply, drugstore, yes yes yes! Fast foward 15 minutes and my world is in a literal BLURR. I stare in the mirror to see my contact lenses are all smudged! full of liner. This liner seems to really STICK on my contacts and causes me to just become blind and blurry.

*sigh* very sad about this one...finding the perfect liner is the ultimate dream, am I wrong??

4.MAC Mineralized Skin Finish Natural

A powder that dosent look flat but gives a glow? Minerals? easy to apply and looks natural. This is sounding like all the right descriptions I need to run for this powder. But the ingredients...Bismuth.Oxychloride. The bain ingredient in so many products to give that glowy soft focus effect *cough cough Laura Mercier Mineral Powder* is a straight path to deep painful cystic acne that can takes months to recover from. Not worth the pain, even though this one is a beauty...

5. Tarte Lip Surgance

Glossy, pretty colors, quirky packagin, natural, nicely scented? Got to give this a try!!! To dry and chapped lips town! I still use my one sample Tarte lip surgance sparingly not because it is precious but because I want to use it up! Everytime I use this I have to SLATHER on lip balm or my lips become heavily chapped and painful , really surprised about this one...

6. Guerlain Meterorites Light Diffusing Primer

This is Guerlain, who dosent want a little Guerlain in their life? The packaging is gorgeous, the little pink beads that float in some kind of hold all products in place liquid is just cool looking, it applies sheerly and feels light on the skin. The price is a cringer, but I requested this as a gift and guess what...

Clogged pores and mini spot city! I have no idea why...I just know if I use this for a few days I get congested spots...nooo why...not Guerlain...not you too

So those are a few of the items in my collections to which I have a love hate relationship with. These ends up at friends houses or blog sales, and I part ways with them in my collection

How about you, do you have any love hate relationships?

Beauty Foods for Foodie Friday

2012-02-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Hmm Friday, I never write posts on Friday because that's the day I eat out and enjoy the night life. Freedom after five straight days of my cubicle.

This week I was on the verge of being sick and missed several days at the gym. To help fight my coming cold I decided to fill my body with some power foods.

Beauty is inside and out ladies, you really are what you eat. So I am going to share a very random Whole Foods haul.

( My blog, today is not make up, but inner beauty, ok?)

By the way, after I ate some of this and slept, I was fully healed the next morning! :)

It was the power of food and rest, I don't take pills for sickness

It seems at the start of a new year one of the most popular resolutions I hear is

"I want to eat healthier"

The truth is, when you eat junk, you probably feel like junk.

Whenever I eat too much candy, I feel sick...I cannot handle drinking soda any longer,it burns my throat like crazy, and if I consume too much fast food, I pretty much am out for the rest of the day with stomach pains.

Actually when these things happen, it's pretty good! ok it's immediately bad, but good in the long run. Your body doesn't know how to process these things. It's starts rejecting these foods, and everyone likes to avoid pain, so you just start avoiding the foods that cause it. By eating as healthily as you can as often as you can, you will notice an increase in overall health.

I am not a dietitian or know more about health than the next person. I just read Fitness and a few random diet books for the structure of a diet. I follow my own kind of "Diet" but here are some of the things I regularly try to consume.

Also a few new things I am trying to strive to be better health wise. One can never be too healthy :)

Ok for some reason, this trip resulted in alot more cheese than usual...

Whenever you feel like you need some sugar, curb cravings with a nice bar with less guilt, even though many of the bars on the market are full of sugar and calories. Be mindful of labels and ingredients

As a general rule to myself at the market, every time I shop I try to buy one new thing

It's not always successful, but I am always glad I gave it the good ole college try

This tea by the way tastes AWFUL and I would not recommend it to anyone. I am not fasting by any means, I just thought the description sounded interesting. It smelled good but this has the worst after taste and after about 2 sips, yeah I called it quit.

Now I know. Avoid.

Trying Truvia. It's not bad! Better tasting than Splenda. I don't consume artificial sugars often but I just wanted to give it a try in my breakfast or protein drinks around gym time.

Things not pictured but almost always purchased:

Greek Yogurt 2 percent: I am not hard core enough for zero percent, excellent for your digestion and a perfect snack! Especially with pineapple, honey, and almonds!!

Kale: because they make amazing chips for a more healthy substitution, and dark leafy greens are the best kinds of greens you can eat!

San Martzano crushed tomatoes: because tomatoes are good for the skin, especially after being cooked, and San Martzano fire roasted tastes delicious over anything...

Almond butter: A bit pricey, but a tasty alternative to traditional peanut butter

Pomegranate juice: I mix this water to refresh my palette, and consume anti oxidants

Lemons: Because when added to water really help detox the body

Last things to note:

Shopping at Whole Foods doesn't make a person healthy

Eating healthier does tend to be a bit more expensive, but it is worth the cost

Eating healthy doesn't means only salads, protein shakes, and oatmeal. Introducing 1 healthy new food habit into your life at a time is a small step to big change

If you don't know if you are hungry or thirsty, drink water

Again, this is not a diet post, or a preach on how to eat. Every person has the right to choose what they consume, but remember, you are not forced to eat something, everything consumed by you is your personal choice, so making mindful ones would show your actions more than words.

Do you guys like health food posts? I really have no idea... I used to be quite addicted to dieting but that lifestyle is hard to maintain if you are not a celebrity. It seems so many women are constantly struggling with body image and confidence. Food seems to be an enemy to so many. It's just food. It's always going to be there. No need to be afraid of it.

If you guys like health posts I can try to post more, but for tomorrow, beauty blogging will resume!

Happy weekend all!

Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre Review

2012-02-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Better know as Chanel's Loose Powder to us girls here in the states :)

This has been the newest addition to my make up rotation, and let me just say, I am one satisfied customer.

Purchased in the shade 30 Natural Translucent 2

Chanel does carry varying colors of this powder. It doesn't really offer coverage in terms of color, but I suppose it melds better with your skin if the color of the powder is similar?

This color blends seamlessly on my NC 20 to NC25 skin tone.

The powder itself is ultra fine. You receive 30 grams of product so this would last with daily use an expected 1 year to 1.5 years. It will probably last me eons.

You don't need a lot of product to cover your T zone or your whole face. So this will last the test of time in terms of investment and use.

The powder itself absolutely melds into the skin instantly. It does not leave a powdery chalky cast or a powdered look. It leaves a more semi matte finish, meaning you won't look flat, and as the day progresses, your natural oils do surface, but it seems to do it in a more glowy way, not a grease slick way

The oil control properties are varied. Chanel never claimed this can help with oil control but when I debated purchasing this or the Laura Mercier Translucent powder, Chanel won, because I heard it overall better controls the daily T zone slick over the Laura Mercier's

I notice with this powder, after about 6 hours I should blot, but I don't really have to. I do know my pore area and nose definitely needs to be re powdered but my forehead and chin are not as shiny. So blotting & re powdering may be dependent on how oily you get, but I think six hours is admirable for a powder that does not claim oil control. *Note* This only happens when I set my face with liquid foundation underneath.

(I have tried this with 2 seperate liquid foundations)

To rectify this problem, I don't re powder. I want to keep this powder's natural glow in tact so in the morning I apply bare mineral mineral veil around my nose to keep that area at bay. It may seem like extra work, but it takes about 20 seconds and my overall face seems to keep more of a radiance effect which I prefer, than a re powdered one. But I can choose to blot if I wish to control the shine more

But...

When I just apply primer, concealer, and this powder all over, I stay matte. Granted my skin at the moment is more normal verging on combo everyday, but I don't need to blot, I don't need to powder, not even close. By 5 pm, I still look MATTE. It's pretty crazy!

Since I am not in love with the matte look I notice when I add fix plus to this more simplified face the more natural human shine appears but without this added step, I haven't re touched at all, and don't even come close to needing to.

Blended out to Translucent

Semi matte finish, not flat

Application wise, my favorite brush thus far to apply this hefty priced powder, is the Target Sonia Kashuk Powder Brush

The powder comes with a poof which I do not use, but it is quite soft and keeps the powder safe under the cap and prevents a mess

Do I love this powder? Yes.

Is this the best loose powder I have ever tried? Yes, GRANTED I have only tried one other, MUFE HD ( FLAT CITY, never again)

Would you recommend this powder: Yes, I would.

I think the price is a little high but 30 grams should last me a loooong time. I love the finish I receive when I wear this over liquid foundation because it gives off a natural radiance as the day progresses. I also love the fact that if I am busy and don't feel like re touching up I can simply swipe this powder on over concealer and primer and be pretty set for the day!

I like having separate options!

I don't know how this powder will preform in the summer when I am definitely more oily, but as of now for my normal/combo skin, this one is a winner!

I'm Going to Try for February

2012-02-01T15:18:00.000-08:00

I have decided for February the shortest month of the year, ha ha! this was part of the strategy, LEAP year this year!! to challenge myself.

For February I am going to try to blog every single day of the month. I remember some blogs I used to read where every night I KNEW they had a new post, and I loved it. It became a daily ritual to check it every night and relax and indulge myself in my daily beauty blog fix.

I am PRAYING I should be able to do this while keeping your interest!

Another challenge I am going to attempt, really striving this month LOL is to take part in the February photo a day challenge! Thank you Ebru for showing it to me!! I am going to try.

The word "Try" seems to be coming up alot in this post.

Here is Day 1: Your view today

I found this on my coffee table this morning! A flower fell from our kitchen bouquet and my mother put it in this tiny dish. So cheerful! I hope my day is just as bright.

This challenge was in my combination to try to play with and conquer instagram this week! Which I am now addicted to!

At the end of the month, I will try to put them all together in some kinda of one month calender.

So for day 1, I am now launching. Hope you follow me and enjoy for February!!!

Instagram name is Lilladylife

NARS Lhasa Eye Shadow Flash Review

2012-01-30T17:35:00.000-08:00

New from NARS Spring 2011, their new single eyeshadow in Lhasa

When I first saw photos of this shadow I thought " This must be mine" I thought it looked romantically smokey. I envisioned it as a sheer wash all over the lids and under the eyes with the edges all buffed out to soft nothings.

The color itself is quite neutral, but I do think it leans slightly cool on my skin tone (warm)

It looks like a soft mix of both heather and dove grey with a slight lavender undertone and loosely added soft silver shimmer. The shadow looks to have a very soft feel in terms of the shade.

The shade, is actually one of those interesting colors where depending on how you wear it, brings out a different hue.

As a sheer wash over the lids with a semi fluffy brush it looks more grey. The shimmer is understated and very barely visible when on the skin. When applied with more pressure such as the outer corner or under the eyes, the lavender, deeper purple side of the shade seems to reflect.

I tend to wear sheer all over washes on my lids, and I don't think a sheer wash of this is very flattering on my warm skin. I am going to keep experimenting with it and maybe try to make use of it's more purple traits.

I don't think I have another shade in my collection like this! I did try to pull out dupes and I had nothing. I think for that, it's quite a unique shade!

Right: Heavy swatch, Left: Sheered out

Like most NARS eye shadows the shadow is firmly packed and pressed, I experienced no fall out, and blending was a dream.

With a primer the shadow did last most of the day. ( Please keep in the mind the primer I am currently using does not let any shadows last all day. This is not the fault of the shadow, it is the primer)

The jury is still out on how much I enjoy this shade, I don't really pull off grey very well, but I am going to experiment with this further, because I do believe it's worth the effort and quite honestly this is one of the best unique neutral eye shadows I have seen in quite a while. I do like the fact that it can become almost a varying color upon application. I think that adds to the value of it's versatility

Have you tried NARS Lhasa? Your thoughts?

Gym Bag Necessities

2012-01-29T06:37:00.000-08:00

If you follow me on twitter you will notice, I don't have many interesting tweets :P BUT I always seems to tweet about going to the gym! Why? Because it seems like I'm always going if I am not at work, well, I am making the effort to try to go lol.

I thought today I would share some of my gym bag necessities!

The beauty items I rely on after a sweat session to make myself presentable again to the world, and not beat up and red faced!

Skin Care

I have noticed that in some gyms women wash their face, and in some they don't depending on the branch I attend ( I think that is so strange...) especially since it has the same amount of sinks and counter space.

So...in some follower way of my brain I developed two skin care routines for the gym ( I know I know... kinda ridiculous) but so be it.

I know some women can feel self conscious about doing something different from everyone else, of if your gym lacks sinks or counter space I would recommend a cleanser that does not require water. I am currently trying the Clarins Water Purifying One Step Cleanser ( I have the travel size and refill it from the big version) This version is for combo to oily skin and is a bit too strong for my face at the moment, but the basic idea is apply it on a cotton pad and spread it all over your face, follow with moisturizer. You will feel clean and this will get the job done without the use of water.

If I do use a sink, I apply a very mild cleanser, and follow with moisturizer and sun screen if the sun is still out.

I would recommend in general to try to use as many smaller or travel sized items as your can. Your bag is probably already heavy with clothes and equipment and you don't want to bog it down with a industrial sized cleanser!

Also bare minimum items, no serums and potions, just a clean face.

If you shower at the gym I would recommend a body wash that helps with acne as your perspiration and friction of tighter clothing can cause spots in places that may be easily avoided with an acne body wash.

Make up wipes of course!!!!! Use whatever is your favorite. I don't love make up wipes, but going to the gym with make up on which some people do ( People can do whatever they want) but I feel, may be a way of just asking for spots ( at least for my skin). I just remove it all off.

I also HIGHLY recommend you carry around a deodorant. They come in travel sizes, they are usually at the $1.99 mark, and it's just cour testy

Make up

Hmmm I don't always do this. I usually don't wear make up to the gym if I am not coming from work, and I usually don't wear it after because I think skin care is more important and most of the time I am just going home, but if I do have errands to run after and will be staying out a while I will do a little to perk up and open up the face

Again, nothing crazy, and let's look for mini's and travel sizes

After the gym my face is RED, usually the classes I attend have no AC ( in humane) so I am boiling and look like I just got cooked in a steam. If it's really bad, I will wear a moisturizer with a tint release or a normal tinted moisturizer. Current favorite is Vitazing.

If I don't look like a lobster I will just stick to concealer under the eyes and around the face.

Hand sanitizer (always), cream blush because you don't need a brush, and it's more natural, if your cheeks aren't already a bit colored :) Paint pot to brighten tired eyes for early morning classes and no primers needed. Eye brow pencil ( this is optional) but I just like to have them done to look more groomed, preferably one with a spooly. Lash curlers to open up your tired eyes, natural looking mascara, and I apply brown liner on the top lashes because without it my lashes look stupid with mascara ( so much empty space!) and this is also optional but a flesh colored pencil for the waterline to further re open the eyes. I also apply a inner corner highlight, all about the eyes!!! and my Anastasia pencil comes with a brow highlight, you gotta love a good ole 2 in 1. Finish off with spf lipbalm, if you desire color, a tinted one. Recently I have been using the Revlon lip butters for moisture and color.

I think the Garnier roll on which I am going to try next, will also be an excellent and natural looking edition

I don't recommend powder because the locker room is warm, and your body temperature is still high, if you continue to sweat it would look cakey. I would go outside and touch up with powder later if needed.

Hair

After the gym my hair just needs to get off my face. I always always always just put it in a top knot, and THESE I HIGHLY recommend. They're from Goody and I prefer them over spin pins which I think are hard to remove...

They're like huge bobby pins, but adding just one of these to your hair is like adding 5 bobby pins! I usually just need 2 to 3 for my bun and it keeps it very secure!

Equipment

I don't really have too much to say about clothes and shoes for the gym. Wear something comfortable, breathable, I would avoid any grey materials...I would opt for white or black and layering on colored soft T's for after the gym.

I would recommend bringing a spare T shirt to change into for after work outs. These don't have to be expensive. Just soft. Forever 21 and Old Navy have nice soft gym T's

I would recommend if you do go to the gym often to invest in your actual gym clothes, because the higher brands material and quality do make a difference when used indoors and especially outdoors

They will also last longer, and be harder to break down even after continual and extreme use

Bring music, with a customized play lists that make you motivated and keeps you going in case the gym is playing something called crap. Bring your own mini towel if you don't like communal ones. Bring your own empty colorful BPA free water bottle you can refill at the gym to not add in extra weight, and because it is cheaper in the long run.

And if you need motivation, there are about a million health apps out there to help with calorie counts, pedometers, tips and tricks, demos, and record keepers!

I also would recommend Asics if running is something you partake in.

Change your sneakers after about 300 miles, this I don't follow. That would be so expensive...I usually wait about 3 to 4 months, but again, this depends on how much use you get out of them

Also, please remember. The hardest part about going to the gym, is getting there.

With that lovely ladies, I am done, sooo can you guess where I am going now?? :)

OOTD My Painters Shirt

2012-01-28T21:01:00.000-08:00

Saturdays means gym, errands, and top knots!

My boyfriend is now working weekends so I feel pretty special when he makes time to see me on weekends because I know he is tired.

Unfortunately I didn't seem to dress for the occasion. I wore my over sized denim shirt. It's over sized because I purchased the wrong size at an outlet and wouldn't bother driving two hours for a return.

I figured if I wore my coat most of the day no one would notice, but I still try to jazz up my what looks like a shirt I would wear if I went to paint a house!

Gold necklace:H&M, Button down: J.Crew, Coat: Korea, Jeans: H&M, Boots: Frye, Bag: A UK website...cannot really recall the name at the moment...I actually considered returning it, but since I have used it twice, I guess I liked it enough to keep!

I have been wearing this H&M necklace so often recently! This shows:

1. You don't need a huge collection of accessories, just some versatile pieces, that can be mixed in with your wardrobe

2. I wear the same thing over and over ( I love a good ole ruts sometimes! )

3. Great pieces don't have to cost a lot of money

Friday Night

2012-01-27T19:13:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I always have dinner with my boyfriend and bring cheers to the weekend!!

One needs to enjoy one self, a little bit of hard work does earn a bit of reward!

I found this place when flipping through Google to find a nice place for dinner. Burgers were on the brain! Thanks to luck and menu pages, we tried Bill's Bar and Burger Restaurant

Juiciest turkey burger I ever had (extra jalapenos please!) and a yummy marshmallow milk shake!

I am going to the gym tomorrow, but the milk shake was well worth it! :)

What do you do on Friday nights?

The Tale of Chanel's Illusion D'ombre in 86 Ebloui

2012-01-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

I've wanted one of these Chanel shadows for a long time. Well, since they came out, is that considered long??

They had two beautiful shades Emerveille and Illusoire, but passed because I had Jill Stuart dupes. Then I heard of Ebloui from MissHannahG and Chanelette

I finally made up my mind. I was going to finally buy one of these babies and decided Ebloui was the goal!

After the end of a long dinner this weekend (3 hours...crazy) I went to Macy's to swatched Ebloui and thought "This is beautiful!!! It has green reflects! I love it!" and went to the register. Fast forward home 20 minutes later to a very excited me, opening my shadow to hear a noise...hmmm?? Then I looked at the cap which I could not get off because it was on crooked!! Oh no!! I opened my shadow to see it completely dried up and 100 percent separated from the jar! If I flipped it over it would have fallen out.

Close the lid to these babies tight ladies!

Stared at the clock and saw the department store closed in 9 minutes...THANK GOODNESS I GO TO THE GYM! Slapped on some random shoes and ran in the snow, yes, of course it had to be in the cold snow!! I did not want to wait until the next day in case the staff thought I may have damaged the item myself. Made it with 3 minutes to spare and an exchange.

WHEW, some intro right!!!

Sh peel over, I finally got my shadow, I am in love, and couldn't be happier.

The shadow comes with a brush which I have not tried...and really should have before this post...

I have not been posting recently and did unfortunately take these photos at night but wanted to share my newest love purchase!! Will be reviewing in much fuller depth in the future!

Until then, eye candy!

Can you see the gorgeous green fine reflects?

Randomly, other favorites this week have been: MAC Teddy Eyeliner, MAC MSF in Stereo Rose over any pink cream blush, MAC MSF in Soft and Gentle, Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel (review coming soon), Maquillage eye lash curlers, NARS Dolce Vita lipstick with MAC Plushglass in Ample Pink

Hope everyone had a greeaaat weekend!!!

And for those who celebrate, Happy Lunar New Year!!

OOTD for when Laziness Get's to You

2012-01-16T07:18:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure about you guys, but by Friday at work ( which ironically is my busiest day) I am already EXHAUSTED and am ready for the weekend

By Friday, I have a hard time waking up on time, and usually will rush, even though I'm also trying to look my best for date night, but this past Friday was COLD. So cold I had to wear pants. By now you should all know I. HATE. WEARING. WORK. PANTS.

But here is my lazy work outfit, I guess it could have been a snazzier title like "Winter Resort Look" or something... but truth is, this is my lazy outfit. Can never go wrong with black.

Here is the outfit I wore to Hell's Kitchen

Black Tank: Old Navy, Black Sheer Button down: H&M, Pants: Express Cigarette skinnies ( I really need to invest in more work pants), Shoes: Zara, Necklace: Etsy, Blt: JCREW, Bag: Brand less Ring: YSL

My shoes, handbag, belt, and jewelry were the only forms of color on me. I needed something to not make me look like I was completely beat. So many people noticed my ring and shoes, I don't even think they noticed my outfit (whew)

Let's be honest, it's a bit drab and dreary

Do you have any lazy go to's?

Also, any favorite work pants recommendations??

Break Time

2012-01-16T06:49:00.000-08:00

It's Monday? how is it Monday?? I usually post these on Sunday but really...nothing happened. I basically went to the gym all weekend, and am going today after I post this. Went to Barnes and Nobles twice, purchased some running books, and had a quick stop at Sephora, had mad moment, purchased Hervanna, and returned it the next day. HA.

Yup, life on the edge. That's me.

I have not even been on the Internet for days, random tweets on the cell phone, all gym related I believe.

Sometimes you just need a break from everything online

The only real thing I did this weekend was a try a new restaurant on Friday.

Hell's Kitchen, in Hell's Kitchen NY

In short, I would not go back, I thought the food was just EH

Not much of a post or weekend I'm afraid.

Last few bits:

I should be coming home from the gym with some sunlight left to take a few blog photos this afternoon, any post recommendations?

Also, do any of you ladies know of good calf slimmer exercises? I am completely failing in that dept!

Random rant: Has it been FREAKING cold or what???

OK, Off to put on 30 layers to go sweat it out on some machine that's telling me I am too slow XD we all get our own kind of high's lol

Spottings in the Office OOTD

2012-01-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

I used to take OOTD pictures, then I got a new camera, no tripod, and no clue how to use the timer. (This is my fault) Then I started taking random pics in any full length mirror I could find and finally just purchased my own, only to realized I now needed a lamp... Now I am going to try making collages of my outfits. Let me know which formats you guys prefer!

This is actually what I wore last Friday. We don't have casual Fridays in my office but I do take it upon myself to have a little more fun with my wardrobe

Blouse: Zara, Tank: random, Pencil Skirt: Korea, Stockings: Target, Belt: Good Will, Heels: BDG

I love this new blouse I purchased just recently in Zara. The front has a peter pan collar in contrasting shades and looks quite proper with a cute matching sleeve hems. But when you walk away, the back has the buttons down the back ( I love blouses that do that!)

A little conservative in the front and interesting in the back.

Let them know there is more to you than meets the eye initially!

The blue pencil skirt is a perpetual favorite because it is the perfect fit/material, safe work color with a lil somethin somethin, and NEVER WRINKLES, incredible. If I knew what material this was, I would buy 10 of these!

The tights add some fun! It's freaking Friday ok?? I've actually worn these tights in many past outfit pictures but they never showed up so I had to take a closer shot!

(My skirt is knee length it only looks shorter because I am sitting )

I don't remember what make up I wore last Friday T.T but to add interest I showed what make up I wore today

Chanel Bronze Universal ( Just began using this, LOVING IT), Vitazing, Taupographic shade stick (discontinued), Milani brown liner (testing this out, terrible for my contacts and will not be using again...sniff, too bad GREAT PENCIL), Paul and Joe lipstick in #20 and Dior lip gloss in #436.

Because the bronze universal is a color I bring to my cheeks, I don't wear blush with it and just added some Dior Amber Diamond (not pictured)

Hope you guys enjoy the new format!!! I would love to see what other office ladies wear to work because in the morning when I wake up, I literally have NO CLUE what to wear. Hopefully making these OOTD's reminds me to not look like a scrub!

XOXO!

Current Favorite Cosmetics

2012-01-11T15:58:00.000-08:00

When was the last time I did a favorites?? Eeep, I do lack these, but here is what I am currently applying on my face daily, and have been showing my love

Base Make up

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Oil Free: After going through several sample tubes, and various other primers, I finally bit the bullet and purchased the full size during the Sephora FF sale. Best primer I have found thus far. I really do want to try the Radiance version next!

Origins Vitazing: My skin has been dry, I have a hard time dealing with dry skin because I really only know how to handle myself when I am more of an oil slick. After going through a few bases, and seeing a few too many flakes appear, I have been using this as my "foundation" of choice and think, THIS IS AMAZING. Gives a healthy glow, a tiny hint of tint, and feels weightless (because it is a moisturizer) I cannot wear this in the warmer months (makes me crazzzy oily) but when the air get's chilly, this is my savior! This deluxe sample tube is lasting me forever!

Eyes and Cheeks

MAC Tenderling: A recent purchase. I have to admit I was NERVOUS when I said to ring this up at the register because in the pan this looks ... BLAH. It can even look like a face powder, if you are walking by the blushes fast enough but, wow, this has been my current obsession! Put on top of a bit of a contour, Hellooo! cheekbones! and health! I have been wearing my hair up often recently, just to show off this color!

NYX Eyebrow Cake: A pencil brow fan for years, my first foray into powdered shadow led me down the road to a $5 dollar purchase which I have been litterally digging! In shade 03 Tape/Ash, I only use the Ash shade and it's perfect for my very dark brown hair color! I use the mini brush and spooley it comes with and they do the job. I apply the mini wax with my fingers. This is a keeper!

Real Lasting 1 Day Tattoo Eyeliner: Bit of a long name but the word Tattoo should get you. Though this is not as black as my favorite Koji Dollywink this is still a thumbs up product. Great felt nib, decently dark black color, and I recently sat in front of a boiling pot of hot steaming water for 2 hours and this did NOT budge, this was by the way at the end of my day. Kitten flicks in tact, I think tattoo is the appropriate description!

Chanel Eye shadow Palette in Winter Nights:

( I just found out this is being discontinued, WHY?)

My current "go to" palette for everyday. Soft brown all over the lid, pink or peach as a highlight and inner corner, and the gorgeous olive black as a liner. This can still be found currently at a few counters still have it in stock, so if you can find it, I would recommend it!

Nails

Essie's Topless and Barefoot: My favorite Essie shade. When I don't know what to wear this goes on. It never fails, the perfect opaque nude that is both work approporate and weekend casual. Looks incredible against the winter dark drabs I have been reaching for in terms of my wardrobe. Bright bit of sunshine.

Powder products

Physicians Formula Happy Booster Powder in Beige: Dull skin is brightened with this slightly shimmery face powder. Since I own beige, it does have a bit of color to it, some days I just wear this with concealer as my base. I am all about the simple base now a days. This powder does have shimmer but don't worry you won't scare anyone off, it is subtle and slightly brightening.

MAC By Candlelight Highlighting Powder: Forever a favorite. Since Tenderling is matte, this adds a little glow to my cheeks.

Lips

Barry M Lip gloss in number 2 Toffee: Something I am dangerously close to finishing. Sweet scent, subtle shimmer, nudey mauve shade with not too much stickiness, and a doe foot applicator. Probably my favorite lip gloss. Luckily I have a back up, so my heart can rest for a while, but it can be found on ASOS.

For the evening

I have been enjoying the minimal make up look, and the boy is not a fan of too much make up, so on night's out, I a bit of Tarte's Cheek Stain in Flush which adds a natural "youthful love" color, and swiping on an opague lipgloss like Revlon's Bourdeaux certainly seems to do the trick!

What are some of your current favorites?

L'Oreal Infalliable Eye Shadow Review

2012-01-09T17:15:00.000-08:00

Let me just say right now, drugstores have been stepping up their game, and all I can say is HALLELUYAH!

High end make up is great, but when you find a drugstore gem, well you just found yourself a cheap but cheerful treasure

Latest finds: The L'Oreal Infallible Eye shadows

Launched throughout most of the world but finally reaching US drugstores are the new affordable versions of the Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill at a fraction of the price!

The packaging base showcases the shade of color, and the top shows the name of the shade. I think these are quite attractive!

So why all the hype? Why are so many bloggers comparing these to the Armani counterparts, because they ARE similar

Let us count the ways

1. Very similar toppers, this not only keeps the pressed loose pigments in place, but I believe keeps them from drying out

2. Gorgeous shade range, granted Armani's range is larger, but many drugstore brands do semi limit their colors

Iced Latte 888

This shade is similar to Bare Study in my opinion with a softer texture

Bronzed Taupe 890

A gorgeous gorgeous taupe, it is not as bronzey as the name would suggest but for a quick swipe on the lid, a girl can't ask for a prettier shade with such ease

This shade reminds me of MAC Satin Taupe with MAC Sable mixed in

I compared these with my Armani shadow in Gold Blitz #5

Swatches

L to R : Iced Latte, Bare Study, Bronzed Taupe, Gold Blitz

3. Pigmentation is amazing, see it compared to the Armani (gold shade)

Indoor Lighting

L to R: Iced Latte, Bronzed Taupe, Gold Blitz

Sunlight

Umm how GORGEOUS and pigmented are these??? I am definitely buying Amber Rush next, the minute I find it!

Now on the the brief review:

These are super smooth, come in great wearable colors (along with a few fun ones), incredibly pigmented, and last 10 to 12 hours on my eyes with a primer. I apply them with my finger but they are just as gorgeous on a flat eye shadow brush. The price is great, and I would recommend any women who wanted the gorgeous Armani shadows, but could not validate the price to buy these instead as they are an excellent substitute. (Look for BOGO sales!)

L'Oreal, you did GOOD on this one!

Differences:

The only real difference I see between these drugstore shades compared to the Armani are, Armani has a better color range, some of which has multi colored shimmer in them which adds to their incredible interest, but in terms of 1 complete shade with the same shimmer running through these are very comparable in my opinion.

Though scads of reviews have now entered the blog o sphere on these babies, please check out Tiffany's post for additional swatches and reviews!

The Sunday Post

2012-01-08T20:09:00.000-08:00

Friday night started off with a a bottle of Sparkling wine, and a dinner with my wonderful boyfriend

We had Italian

Attempted to walk off some pasta and caramel custard while passing through Times Square

Saturday morning I went for a run, and ran into many other early birds

The boyfriend and I went to New Jersey for lunch and had beautiful scenery to go with the superb weather

A walk through the mall led me to see some interesting displays

Purchased this weekend

The food that fueled me this weekend

Spicy fried dumplings, Hoji roasted tea ice cream, Super spicy hot pot

Hope everyone had a great weekend! Hope you enjoyed a peek at mine :)

MAC Naturally Mineralized Eye Shadows

2012-01-07T20:06:00.000-08:00

I was doing so well...staying away from MAC, staying away from Limited Edition, even gave myself a pat on the back at the end of the year. So of course at the start of the New Year, new beginnings, I became a MAC hauler again, yay for me!

This was my first time purchasing MAC Mineralized Eye Shadows, I have only previously tried their mineralized blushes, but when I saw these swirly designs, I just had to see them in person, and walked out with *ahem* a few...

Let me just begin by stating, I don't regret this at all!

I love these eye shadows, I think since they are part of the "Naturally" collection MAC created colors in a beautiful design that are wearable and pleasing to the eye as well as on.

The colors are all wearable, and can be built up. They can also be applied wet for a more intense hue

In The Sun

This looks like a coppery orange with a hint of MAC's Cranberry in the veining. I debated on this shade because I own MAC's Cranberry and have yet to ever use it...but this is the eye shadow I have been reaching for since purchasing. I think it's my favorite of the bunch!

This shade has the biggest chunky particles, it feels almost gritty and I was afraid of fall out but have yet to experience any. This shade looks gorgeous with warm colored clothing, and is my new safe orangey copper shade.

I love this all over the lid, and just under the lash line with liner

Summer Haze

The rest of the shades are far smoother in quality. This is a very safe Champagne shade with a touch of pink when reflected in certain angles. With a heavy swatch it looks like an intense white gold champagne, but when applied less heavily, a nice pink reflection emerges

Daylight

Described as a dirty peach with blue sheen, I disagree. This comes out quite lavender on my skin with blue silver iridescent, but in some indoor lighting I see peach! very strange! this is interesting indeed, and I think is a shade you can wear all day and reflect a multitude of hues. It will keep whoever you are with all day guessing what you have on your eyes!

Twilight Falls

The darkest shade of the bunch and a strong brown, that seems to be rich, but slightly charred.

I have been using this daily as a liner shade

Swatches!

Indoor lighting: heavy swatches

R to L: Summer Haze, Into the Sun, Daylight, Twilight

Sunlight: heavy swatches

Less heavy swatches in the sun

You see the chunky glitters from "Into The Sun" which is the 2nd to last swatch from below, and you can also see the slight pink reflects in "Summer Haze" as the last shade on the bottom

Overall Impressions:

I like these! I think the pigmentation is very easily built up, but I think they look far better as a wash over the eyes so you can see the multi dimensional shimmers that most of these posses.

I also like the fact that depending on lighting some of these shades look quite different. This can be considered a con to some, but a plus for me as I believe it adds to the shadow's uniqueness. They last all day on my lids with a primer, and as a liner, it does not seem to fade.

Outside "Into the Sun" which has the roughest texture, the remaining shades are smooth and easily to apply.

MAC also promoted in this collection a new eye shadow brush to be used with these eye shadows. I personally tried it and did not think I needed this in my collection, I use a domed fluffy brush for application

Thanks for reading!!

New on the Neck

2012-01-06T20:00:00.001-08:00

These were popular I think in 2010? Maybe even 2009? I am quite behind the times, I know.

I think the fad started with Rachel Zoe's assistant wearing these on the "reality fashion show" but I personally thought Lollipop26 paved the way for popularity!

I actually loved this at first sight years ago but never purchased because I don't wear religious symbols. I realized, this was more for fashion, and something I wanted, so I bit the $26 bullet and finally purchased my side ways cross necklace

I love it.

Can be found here! (This was quite an excellent seller!)

Cheers to the weekend ladies!

Absolutley Avéne!

2012-01-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Trials and tribulations in skin care adventures have recently brought me down the French aisle of my pharmacy. First it was a La Roche Posay affair, but now Avéne has been stealing my heart.

Targeted to be made of simple ingredients for sensitive skin, using their chief ingredient of mineral water from Avéne France, and relying on it's own historical healing properties, the brand has been known and trusted to create a gentle skin care for those who have sensitive skin.

The range of products range for all skin types in all ages. They keep their ingredients simple, where each specific ingredient is of higher quality in their pure form so less fillers are needed.

Packaged in simple pink and white packaging, this is just also calming and lovely to look at in your bath room ( if you like those kinds of things)

I have only tried a few things from the brand, but I will be coming back for more.

Avéne Gentle Gel Cleanser - Normal to Combination/Sensitive Skin

My first product was the Gentle Gel cleanser. The skin type fit what my current condition in the winter. This is scented…reminiscent to a whisp of roses and a good shake of baby powder. It comes out a pink gel and looks like a milkier pink version of Cetaphil.

On the face it feels like Cetaphil, not deep cleansing, just clean and simple feeling. At first when I tried this, it dried out my face! Which was not the reaction I was expecting and I was running to the moisturizer step but that seemed to have only lasted 1 day.

The following day, I did not feel the same drying sensation and I just felt basically clean. I also noticed all my spots that were stubborn and beneath the skin had surfaced…I was so happy. Nothing like a stubborn spot that is stuck! Rather get that sucker out and over with.

I use this in the morning for a gentle cleansing because I don't want my skin to be over whelmed in the morning considering I'm also going to be applying make up.I would recommend this to anyone who has normal/combination sensitive skin because it is non irritating, and seems to get the job done in a higher respect that expected from the initial feeling when cleansing.

They do have an Extremely Gentle Cleanser which is a tissue off formula so you can choose between the two, but I prefer to rinse with water.

No fuss, and gets the job done.

Pump bottle.

This bottle has lasted me months with morning use, 2 pumps a day in the AM.

Avéne Thermal Water

Let's not beat around the bush, this is mineral water in a can. These became trendy a few years ago and now multiple brands have their own version, Avéne being just one of them. I use this in place of toner morning and evening. I read that many women use this to balance out the PH levels of their skin when coming in contact with tap water to cleanse your face. Seems like… a lot of trouble to do that but, I just use it. It is suppose to help calm redness and sensitive skin. For me it comes out in a super fine mist and yes, feels just like water. It doesn't feel extremely hydrating but if you apply moisturizer while it's still damp on your face, it does seem to lock in more of the moisturizers claims. I have used it to set make up and for that it does an adequate job. I would purchase this again, because it causes me no skin irritation but I would not be exclusive to this product as well because this is just picking between waters now.

I have no idea when this is going to be done, hopefully a while, but you can never tell with these aerosol cans...

Avéne Clearance Gel Cleanser

From their acne line. "A very simple acne cleanser" the rep told me in the pharmacy. "Just cleans your spots, simple as that" she stated. Well I like simple ( lately) and picked this up. It is so so with the clarasonic, but seems to foam better with hands, and has the slightest mint scent. It comes out in a clear green gel and does not feel stripping nor drying. It does feel a bit more deep cleaning feeling compared to the Gentle Gel Cleanser. When I first used this, my skin looked like it had been congested after a few days of use. No spots just red bumps all over my pore area and cheekbones. I never get spots on cheekbones so that freaked me out, and I avoided highlighter for a while haha

They all died down quickly in a few days, and I have been SUPER clear ever since! I use this only at night and it seems to be enough to keep my skin calm.

I use it with the clarasonic, but if I feel like the foam action just did not happen, I rewash with my hands, this may seem like over kill but if it does not foam, I feel like only water was swirling around my face...

This product looks like its also going to last me several months

I follow with some La Roche Posay acne products because I have them in my stash, but am curious to try Avéne Clearance K which is their acne all over face cream.

You can see the various dispensers. The Gentle Gel Cleanser (left) has a pump dispenser, the Thermal Water (middle) has a spray nozzle which delivers a very fine mist, and the Clearance (right) has a twist cap

Future adventures with Avéne will continue!!

Who would like Avéne? People with sensitive skin! Skin that may be congested and needs a boost. I don't think this would help people with severe issues but if you feel like you are teetering and need a push in the right direction, I would point you down this aisle!

Have you tried anything from this brand?

10 Things...

2012-01-03T18:05:00.000-08:00

I think the best blogs are the ones where you know the bloggers on a more personal level. It's not all beauty obsession that consumes me. So for fun, here are 10 random facts about me!

1. My favorite breakfast at the moment is PB and J on toast. I never even liked PB and J until I was about 25... I go into phases and will eat the exact same breakfast non stop for months. Then move on, and repeat. I cannot do this with any other meal but breakfast. Lately I have started to get tired of this and have tried to eat crepes with jam. The moral of the story is I don't tire easily of the same breakfast foods. I also love Jam and really need to quit the stuff in 2012. *Give me strength*

Always Strawberry

2. I don't mind clutter. I actually love clutter in a way. I am the kind of person who likes to see everything out and visible to my vision not tucked away in drawers. (It's a Taurus thing)

My bedroom only looks messy because I have out a lifetime of knick knacks which I just cannot throw out.

( I am not a hoarder) I am a "pack rat"

3. I am a an avid gym member, not because I am a health nut, but a huge food loovah!

Credit

4. I believe many of life's problems start to show it's solutions once, you sit down, with a cup of tea and some quiet

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5. I hate to sleep. I would rather do anything but sleep.

6. I am probably amongst the worst pop culture person on the planet. I've watched about 50 movies my whole life and have had very little interest to expand that number. I also have watched those same 50 movies at least 20x each.

I only know what little I do of celebs because I am now on Twitter, where I follow people who are far more in the know

7. I like things I know. I love repeating songs on my ipod or on Youtube. I can listen to the exact same one song on my ipod for 3 months, and never get tired of it. Through commuting, work, gym, walking, same song, on repeat, never tired. When I like it, I really like it.

This seems like the breakfast thing...hmmm never realized that

8. I have NO IDEA how to drive even though I am in my mid 20's and have no desire, nor do I feel the need to learn. The city's insurance, tolls, lack of parking, fees, and accidents really just turn me off the whole process.

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9. Had I not realized early in life that money was needed for comfort, I would have become either an artist or an art historian. I suppose if I won the lottery (which I don't even know how to play, not much of a gambler) that would be my "dream job"

I incredibly envy people who pursuit this field, and find it even more fulfilling when they succeed

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10. Even though I love where I live, I would love to live somewhere else for a few years so I can see things from another perspective. I would probably need to learn to drive there...

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Thanks for reading about lil o me!!!

Finished Products of November + December, and the GRAND TOTAL of 2011 !

2012-01-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! First post of the New Year, will be all the items I finished last!

The last finished products of 2011! November + December installment

Pretty proud of myself for the end of the year!

First up, SKIN CARE

Epiduo Gel: An Rx item that I spread all over my face at night to banish potential pimples. Available via Rx only, so won't go too in depth.

Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel: I used this as a toner and it lasted me MONTHS. Filled with Vitamin E, very hydrating and natural, and a huge scent improvement over the actual scent of Witch hazel, which if you have never whiffed, be prepared. This does not smell like rose petals to me, more like baby powder, but I enjoy that this is natural and quite cheap for the amount of product you get. This can be found at Whole Foods and I have already repurchased.

I recommend this for hydration, sensitive skin, and minimal spot banishment assistance

Naruko Tee Tree Clay Cleanser: I purchased this because Fuzkittie said this was her HG acne cleanser. HG acne cleanser claim from a person with perfect skin?? NEED TO TRY THIS was all my brain could muster when I brought this to the till.

I have no idea what is in this. All the ingredients are in Chinese, but I don't think this is with the normal ingredients found in acne cleansers like Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid. This smelled strongly of mint, which helps oily skin stay more matte. This did really help my spots. It takes some time, and foams well with the Clarasonic. It comes out clay looking but foams easily, and it very gently purifies your skin overall so in the deeper sense you wont develop as many future spots. I think this was great, and would recommend it if you have congested skin, and not a very intense issue with spots. Just random annoying ones. I would repurchase this!

Olay Beauty Fluid for Sensitive Skin: Do I need to go on about this? My HG! Read more about it here!

Origins Ginzing: Really was not a fan, I have a very bad track record with Origins, but I would not repurchase this, just a shimmery cream, but for further details, I have reviewed it here

La Roche Posay Active C Eye cream: I love taking recommendations from other bloggers because they will probably just tell you the straight out truth! This eye cream really helped initially minimize a few fine lines and crows feet which I hate but admittingly have. This helped faded them a bit and is a nice gel texture. Think thinner Vaseline. A con about this unfortunately is as time goes on the packaging, the glue?? I have no idea leaks so it can develop brown sticky gunk...I have no idea if this was a one off thing, but just letting you know. I think I would repurchase this, but I would not stop looking around for something better.

La Roche Posay Anthelios Sunscreen: I used the same sunscreen for years, and never looked back because I thought nothing was better. I tried LRP Anthelios, my first venture after finding my HG, and I am so happy I did. I now have TWO HG sun screens. This is my HG for the warmer months. This stays matte, is excellent for sensitive skin, is not incredibly over priced, and mixes well with moisturizers.

In the summer I wear it on top of moisturizer to give myself a matte finish, and in a pinch a decent primer. In the cooler months I mix this with my moisturizer to maintain that moisturized skin glow with protection. The consistancy is very runny, not thick, and it is a shake up formula, but I would recommend this to anyone!

La Roche Posay Effec lar Duo: Maybe I should have created a LRP category???

Let's just say I love this. I see this popping up on many blogs and bit the bullet and purchased it. Bloggers did not let me down! I apply this as a thin layer all over my face at night, and it really helps clear out congestion. It has 5 or 5.5% Benzoyl peroxide which may seem daunting to apply all over your face, but I never experienced any dryness nor sensitivity. It apples easily, dries quickly, and this tube lasted me several months. I think I like it just as much as my Rx prescription, so if you would like an all over acne prevention cream, I would definitely recommend this one.

A few items to note on this product. It seems that the formula is different per country, so I can only claim success with the US formula. Also if you wear this both day and night, I recommend a very reliable sunscreen for the day time and a good moisturizer as this can be drying 2x a day depending on your skin type, and would make your skin sensitive to the sun when exposed. I would recommend to only use this at night.

Body and Hand Care

Body Creams: More Bath and Body. I am not obsessed with their lotions I swear, they just have alot of sales, and I work near one! If you are new to Bath and Body I would highly recommend their moisturizers in the tubes for winter, and the bottles for spring and summer. The tube versions are far more hydrating. I also had a mini body butter which I used as a hand cream, because in the winter my hands can get quite chapped.

I would only recommend these on sale.

The I love brand hand cream: I saw these for months, and the scents they offer seem glorious, unfortunately I thought this hand cream was quite sub par and I am glad I purchased this on sale. I think many other drugstore hand creams at a lower price offer far better results.

Laura Mercier Cremé de Pistache Hand Cream: I am so sad this is done. Of all the Laura Mercier creams the brand offers this was my absolute favorite scent. I would suggest getting this hand cream as a mini treat to yourself. I don't think it is a necessity, but the scent is absolutely divine to me. I would apply this at night, let the scent waif and hope for sweet dreams

Removers and Misc

Sonia Kashuk Eye Make up Remover: Recommended by Ebru ( love her) my new favorite eye make up remover. Found at Target, around 10 dollar mark, and a huge bottle. I don't think you should spend alot of money for eye make up remover, and this is one of the best I tried. Added bonus, it does not leave as much of an oily residue around your eyes. I have already repurchased this!

Lancome Bi Facil Eye Make up Removers (Same sizes): I used to buy the full size, well I bought it once, then I realized it was too expensive to keep repurchasing. Yes, it's good, and if they have a GWP offer, I would happily choose this as one of my items, but I think it does leave an oily film around my eyes, and I don't think it is worth the money. Would not purchase the full size.

Boscia Make Up Break Up Cleansing Oil (Same size) : This sample lasted me months. It did not irritate my sensitive skin, got rid of all my make up ( not so much water proof eye make up) and after I rinsed this off my skin, I felt very clean. Had I not discovered Bioderma, I would have purchased the full size of this. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a natural brand make up removing oil.

Anti Bacterial: I have loads of these!

Finished Make up!!

Very exciting quite a round up this time around!

Bits and Bobs

Garnier Make up Wipes: My favorite, and I always repurchase

MUFE lip gloss (sample GWP): how small is this sample??? Pretty color (shade name rubbed off), not too sticky, subtle shimmer. I don't know how much a full sized MUFE gloss is but I think this is quite an average lip gloss, and any drugstore one like Revlons, is very similar. I would not recommend purchasing this at full value. The color is quite dupable. A huge con of this gloss was, I am not sure if this was because I had a sample but all the text and markings on the tube started wearing away after the first day of use. It would rub off onto the contents of my make up bag and leave black streaks on my other products. This was a little annoying, and for that, I would not repurchase.

Dior Lip Glow: My Go to Lip product this summer. Hydrating, gorgeous color ( which I suggest you try in the store as it differs per person) and semi long lasting on me. A bit over priced ( ok it IS over priced) but I would re purchase this as summer rolls around, as it does contain SPF but did not dry my lips out which is a large con to many SPF lip products. I did notice if I layered this on a bit too thick, my lips would look almost fuscia which was not a color I wanted for the office, so I did have to apply this quite sparingly, but that only made it last longer. I will be repurchasing this next summer!

Boscia Blotting Linens: HG, wouldn't go to any other brand, and have these stock piled all over my apartment!

The Body Shop Bronzer in 03: Full review can be found here. Would not repurchase as I really packed this on eventually and I hate doing that because I have a fear of cakiness. A nice starter bronzer if you never tried one before because it is quite idiot proof but lack of shades for deeper skin tones. Great shade selection for more fair girls.

Physicians Formula Eye Booster in Brown: This really impressed me! Great lid design so the ink does not dry out, great brown color that looks natural, very fine tip, and the best US drugstore felt tip liner I have seen. I think the best felt tip liners are from Japan personally, but I saw on the package, modeled after Japanese felt tipped liners!

If you have trouble finding Japanese felt tipped liners, I would suggest trying this one, which is far more easily accessible! Wait for some PF coupons though! the brand is a little expensive for drugstore! It states not to be used on the water line, but I did =X and had no adverse effects, but this is your personal choice.

MAC Feline Eye Liner: Requested this as a gift and I learned to finally do liquid liner with this product. Really great black shade, nice tip, but I would not purchase this again because it leaves the liner on my eyes to look quite shiny, and I prefer it to be matte. Still quite good! but not a repurchase for me.

Carmex Moisture Plus in Pink: These are nice with SPF, comes in shades of pink or peach, and are smooth. They are pretty hydrating but eh, the lasting power is ok, but I did notice as I was reaching the end of this it was beginning to melt more often ( and it was not hot out ) and started to smear all over the tube. I would repurchase this because it is SPF and affordable but I think it is quite eh now.

Lash Sculpture: I don't show many finished mascaras because I am not a mascara fan. And this mascara really turned me off. I saw a guru use this all the time and claimed it was a favorite. This is a very dry formula and elongated my lashes like crazzzy but omg the removal process was TORTURE and almost no make up remover I owned could get this off without several attempts. This mascara is not done, but I am throwing it out. It has already expired and I only used it a few times because I wished to avoid personal agony when removing it. Would not recommend unless for special occasions where you want crazy length which you can probably find in another mascara.

Chanel Inimitable Intense: My favorite mascara of 2011! Great black color, lengthens, and volumizes for some nice drama. It is semi scented but really made my eye lashes look their best!!! If I wanted to splurge on a mascara, this is one of the ones I would love to repurchase.

Maybelline Lash Discovery: I loved Maybelline Full and Soft for years but never tried it's counter part product. Well, I hated this. The brush was incredibly dinky, think Clinique bottom lash range. The brush also spiraled, and it just did not do much. I think this is supposed to lengthen but I regretted purchasing this over full and soft. Wont be trying this again.

Shisedio Mascara Base: I loved the old formula but this new nourishing formula I suppose just is not the base mascara I remember. This gives my lashes semi length and more of a fluffy feeling ( softer lashes) but far less drama. I keep buying this again because I think it nourishes my lashes, and I cannot find a better mascara base ( The market really needs to work on a GREAT one) but I just buy this again and again as I still look out for my HG. Reluctantly repurchase only because I cannot find anything better at the moment

Blistex in the blue tube: HG, love it, and please try it! I have these all over the house.

Dior Lifting Sculpting concealer: Recommended by Tiffany (who I also love!) because she has GREAT recommendations. This is by far the best under eye concealer I have tried. They lack a shade range, but this is quite full coverage, and in a pinch works well as an overall face concealer. This was the perfect color for my under eyes to look bright, but not too fake, and after I purchased this, everyone always asked me why I never looked sleepy, and how I always looked so awake for work! It's this!!! I would definitely repurchase in the future, once I get through my current concealer stash! Highly recommend! ( Please note I do set this concealer)

Lancome GWP Palette

This does not look impressive but I am the MOST proud to finish this product. Ok yes, I see only 2 of the 4 pans are complete but I am calling this done. I HATE the gold shade (can you tell?) the white shade is a nice highlight but I own many others. I think Lancome gives out incredible GWP eye shadow palettes! I just need to get rid of this because if I don't, I wont ever reach for the shadow palettes which I love but never got to use because I kept thinking I need to finish this!! I don't know, I think it's crazy one of my most used palettes was a GWP but I loved this, and would recommend Lancome shadows!

Finally - Sound the trumpeteers!!! The Grant Total of Finished products for 2011!

165

When I first saw this number I kinda went @.@

I knew it would be pretty big judging from my past posts and around summer made a descision for 2012.

I use ALOT of stuff. I finish alot of stuff because I USE alot of stuff. Best English really...

For 2012 I have made a resolution, to use far more natural and paraben free products.

I'm not going to just throw away the items in my collection which has parabens and such chemicals but I realized, I am slapping all this stuff on my body, all over Every. Single. Day. Although I will still use paraben prodcuts in my current collection, I will make a more concious effort to minimize these in my life going forward. This will be tough considering many of my favorite brands do not offer paraben free make up/body producs, but I think this would be a good experiment for me for 2012!

Please tell me some of your Beauty Resolutions!!

Best Products of 2011

2011-12-31T14:41:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, the end of it! 2011 went by in a flash, and I am looking forward to a brand new year!!

Time to look over the collection and pick out the best products of the year!

I tried my best to keep it at products found in 2011 but I do have some repeat favorites from last year. ( Couldn't help it, LOVE EM)

On to the favorites!!

Best in Skin Care:

Tool: Clarasonic Mia + Deep Pore Cleansing Brush

Cleanser: The Body Shop Seaweed Cleanser

Toner: Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel

Moisturizer: Olay Beauty Fluid for Sensitive Skin, Clinique Dramatically Different Lotion+Gel, Estee Lauder Hydrationist

Eye Cream: Clinique All About Eyes Rich

Mask: Khiels Rare Earth Deep Pore Mask

Acne Treatment: La Roche Posay Effeclar Duo

Spot Treatment: La Roche PosayEffeclar A.I. topped with Oxy spot Treatment, Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, Clinque spot healing gel

Sunscreen: La Roche Posay Anthelios

Make up Wipes: Garnier

Eye Make Up Remover: Sonia Kashuk

Make up Remover: Bioderma

Best in Hair, Nails and Body Care:

Serum: Moroccan Oil

Shampoo and Condioner: Shiseido Tsubaki for Damaged Hair

Hair Mask: Shiseido Tsubaki Mask

Nails: Essie's Topless and Barefoot, Essie's Mint Candy Apple, American Apparel California Trooper, OPI Skull and Glossbones, Bourjois Rose Lounge with OPI Bubble Bath

Body Wash: Neutrogena Stay Clear Pink Grapefruit Body Wash

Body Moisturizer: None

Best in Make up:

Primer: Laura Mercier Oil Free Primer for face, NARS Smudgeproof eyeshadow base

Foundation: Lancome Ageless Mineral Foundation, MUFE Face and Body, Nanoce BB cream

Concealer: Dior Lifting Sculpting Concealer

Powder: Maybelline Dream Matte Powder

Highlighter: MAC's By Candlelight, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector, Nars Orgasm Illuminator

Bronzer: NARS Laguna, Edward Bess Daydream

Blush: MAC Peaches, Milani Luminoso, NARS Dolce Vita

Eyeshadow: Lorac Moonstone, Chanel Winter Nights Quad, Paul and Joe eyegloss in 05, Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill #5

Liner: Koji Dollywink Felt Tip liner in Extra Black

Pencil Liner: MAC Chromographic Pencil NC15/NW20

Mascara: Chanel Inimitable Intense

Brows: Shu Uemura Hard 9 Pencil in Seal Brown, NYX eye brow cake in 03

Lips: Dior Lip Glow, Blistex in the blue tub

Setting Spray: Fix +

Blotting Paper: Boscia Blotting Linens

Brush: MAC 182 kabuki, Laura Mercier Blending Brush

Perfume: Jo Malone Nectarine and Honey Blossom

I hope you all share what your most favorite products of 2011 was.

Wishing you all a safe and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

See you all in 2012!!

xoxo!

Few OOTD's for December

2011-12-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

Emphasis on the word "few"

I'm one of those people who seems to have alot of clothes but wear the same things all the time. In fact most of the clothes I wear everyday were already shown in my November OOTD's so here are a few new ish bits.

Work:

The Company Holiday Party

I realized I wore this skirt last year to the company party! what can I say, it's my go to!

You want to try to look festive, and make an effort, but not too crazy as you do have to work in the office before you PAR-TAY!

Necklace: UO, Top: Monki, Skirt: Korea, Tights: DKNY, Shoes: BCBG, JCrew Belt to create a "poof" effect, Watch: MK

Working the next day, you need to not look hung over - which I definitly was not, professional, but comfortable because you are probably tired, and ate alot of party food

Polka dots are a great way to make a black and white suit less boring

Blazer: UO, Polka Dot blouse: Korea, Pants, Express, Watch MK

Prints and Accessories

Dont be afraid to add subtle prints and accessories to bring your work attire to a new level

Pick items that can be inter changable from the office to your personal life

Pick neutral colors for the easiest way to make the transition

Stars and Stripes theme

Starry Blouse: Zara, Necklace: H&M, Watch MK --> All three items are currently available online or in store

Play

Home for the holidays

In the winter warm fabrics, and spring colors can make you feel brighter even when the weather outside is showing the opposite

Thinner materials layered together can be both warm and fashionable with the different textures and colors

I finally got a full length mirror, please ignore the background!

Outfit 1: Jcrew Sweater, BDG T Shirt and Jeans, Uggs (ugly but warm!), MK Watch

Outfit 2: Zara buttondown, HM sweater, BDG jeans, Doc Martens, MK Watch, Stripy socks!

Outfit 3: H&M T from the Boys Section, BDG jeans, Frye Boots, MK Watch, Leather Jacket (not pictured) - sometimes you just got to wear black

Example of how to wear items in different outfits

Same Zara blouse but layered over a black tank. You can see the subtle star pattern and the re use of the necklace which I have been wearing daily!! Need to find the silver version!

You don't need a big wardrobe to dress nicely daily, buy good basics, that can be mixed and matched with ease, and you wont need a closet full of junk

(Which reminds me I need to donate some clothes soon !) -- it's good for you and others!

Hope some of these tips helped for cold weather dressing!

The Holiday Spirit

2011-12-25T09:24:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!! ( For those who celebrate! )

Just wanted to share a few photos that I think show the holiday spirit. No matter which holidays you celebrate, no matter what foods you eat, or what movies you watch. This time of year is not just about Rudolph and presents, but the holiday spirit which makes this time of a year, the time to reflect on happiness and giving.

Hope everyone has a very happy holiday season surrounded by your friends and family!!

XOXO

Best wishes to everyone!!!!!!!

Holiday Shopping

2011-12-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

Follow me around two of the city's holiday outdoor market's as I search for some last minute gifts!

Bryant Park's Outdoor Market

Union Square's Outdoor Market

Are you all still holiday shopping? Or super late like moi!!

Currently on Autopilot

2011-12-15T20:53:00.000-08:00

I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo ready to change my everyday "look"

For two months my daily face routine has consisted of everything in this basket, nearly everyday

It's not as of I don't want to use different things, I just desperately want to finish a lot of things that are currently in my daily ritual of making myself look presentable for the world.

Let's see what been playing on loop mode for the past two months:

1.Laura Mercier Mineral Primer: on it's last leg, these deluxe sample sizes are honking huge, 1 fl oz!

2.Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector: ohhhhhhhhhh this is nice. It's not flashy, not like a chunky MSF this is just subtly divine. You look just a little more other worldly with this. (Not pictured)

3.Maybelline Mineral Concealer: Ive tried a lot of concealers high end and drugstore and I always just seem to go back to drugstore. Preferably with a doe foot. No real preference though I liked Loreal. I get whatever is on sale.

4.Lancome AgeLess Mineral Foundation: My favorite foundation of the moment! Though the air is cooler, I am still able to wear this with no flakiness, a slight glow is apparent after application, nothing like LM or the originals BM but spritzing a finishing spray at the end can give me the last bit of luminosity, I buff this all over sheerly with a MAC 182 kabuki

5.Dior Concealer: Another thing that is on it's last leg. Best under eye concealer I have tried to date. Full coverage, easy to blend, and in a pinch great all over the face. Lack of colors though. Followed by Laura Mercier Secret Brightening powder on a fluffy 224, you don't need this but I use it because I have it. Ive had it for about 4 years ( one of my first Sephora purchases) and I'm only half done. This lasts a LONG time.

6.Edward Bess Bronzer: The current bronzer I am using. I apply this all over in a loose "3" motion with a huge Sephora brush, the big fat pink one everyone knows about! Review here!

7. MAC Peaches: Sometimes I layer this over a cream blush but I usually wear this alone. My top blush pick for 2010 and still a continual favorite! Best shade to brighten my face in MAC from the Peach family. Ive tried all the peaches from the MAC perm line. This is the one for me. NC 25-ers go running for it! If you are cooler, this is going to be straight up orange, so I would avoid. Also when using this, I would at all costs not couple this with an orange based bronzer.

Occasionally if I forget the Becca, my plan B highlighter is the Laura Mercier Peach Shimmer Bloc with an ELF fan brush - studio line! lol

8.Shu Brows: My HG, buy it try it! Spooly em out, and add Anastasia brow fix to keep them hairs in place

9.Laura Mercier Eye primer: reviewed here. Followed by Bare Study Paint Pot: I hit pan on this LONG AGO and haven't seen it move since. It's getting dryier and im getting impatient! Also this is starting to dry out my lids.

10. Bobbi Brown Gel Liner: Because my primer is not great I apply this with an angled Sephora brush, then powder over the liner with a random brown shadow from a GWP Lancome Palette. A daily kitten flick to widen up the eyes

11. MAC chromatographic pencil in NC 15/NW20: On my lower waterline to rid myself of red splotched and tired eyes

12. Mascara: This is not an everyday occurrence, actually I wear it about once every other week but right now I am currently enjoying MUFE smokey lash, this stuff really can hold a curl!!

13. Fix +: I always end with this. Make up holy water for me really. I know some people are not fans, but this fixes all make up mistakes for me, smooths everything out, soft focus, slightly dewy, and longer lasting make up?? Sign me up!

14. Last are lips which are an SPF lip balm, followed by a Tarte Lip surgance (surprisingly drying on me!!) in Enchanted, and topped with a random nude MUFE mini gloss which was Sephora gift, and yes, I am also finishing this up!

Hmm, this looks incredibly long, but anyone who follows a "routine" knows your mind and body go on "autopilot" and this is done pretty quickly. I have always admired people who can apply all their make up in 5 minutes, for some reason, all my routines take 8. LoL

What are your current everyday staple items?

Excuse the poor lighting, make up application now happens pre sun rise - sad!

Edward Bess Ultra Luminous Bronzer - A Review

2011-12-13T20:53:00.000-08:00

Edward Bess *swoon* I always swoon and slightly sigh in anticipation when I speak of this brand's name and product's

I only own two Edward Bess items. An eye shadow palette which I recieve compliments on with each use, and this bronzer.

The time has finally come when I can use this little baby - I purchased this a few month's ago and have been waiting to use this with excitement. My bar is set quite high for this products.

Through numerous claims and raves from incredible blogs such as TheBeautyLookBook and CaféMakeup - who both have absolutley incredible taste, if they say this is good, The BeautyLooBook claimed this was even her favorite bronzer, well, then this must be special.

The product is packaged in a complete black plastic casing with the brand's name subtly raised on the surface. It is encased in a black velvet pouch which holds the bronzer very snugly.

I do have difficulty sometimes getting the bronzer out of the pouch, but I am assuming wear over time would stretch it out.

In the most known and beautiful shade : Daydream

Let's open this baby up!

*Drooling*

When I first opened the bronzer, I was so happy. Not orange - my biggest bronzer pet poove. I want to look bronzed damn it, not a Willy Wonka employee. Get it straight!

The bronzer is a gorgeous brown. It seems to lean warm - again not orange, just warm, but when swatched against other bronzers, you can notice there seems to be the slightest tinge of pink.

In my opinion this is a warm color, but the pink just adds a "real dimension" to it

When we tan in the summer, you get brown and a bit red/pink.

This product is matte.

The powder is so soft but densly packed, meaning when you swirl in your brush, you dont have powder flying all over the place.

This bronzer seems incredibly ideal for those who run slightly paler to medium. I can see this being worked up to a higher/deeper shade, but even with my NC 23 skin tone, an angled loose contour brush, just does not provide enough color for me to contour to my preference. This must be built up. I have very little fear with this shade.

It blends like an absolute dream, it becomes almost seamless on the skin. It blends gorgeously with the powder on your face, or on top of a liquid product, as I have tried this over foundation, and mere moisturizer.

There is a slight fragrance, it smells like the Benefit Boxed powders. Very light sheer candy. It actually smells like those Nerd Candies!

Laguna - Top, Daydream -Bottom

Laguna to me has always been a quite golden brown, but when swatched with Daydream it looks quite dark, and Edward Bess' item can very much show off it's slight pink hue

Laguna is slightly darker and more pigmented, but Daydream is softer, and both look natural on my light warm skin tone.

Sunlight

Left- Daydream, Right - Laguna

Overall Thoughts

Ive tried this bronzer with a few brushes and have settled on a huge fat sephora brush to give my face an all over light sheer color on the edges of my face.

How much bronzer is adequate for December to look natural?

With a mildly densed kabuki it went on a bit too dark for my me

With an angled contour brush, it think the density of bristles just put it on very straight and I was constantly buffing out edges which I thought was annoying and involved an added step

The pigmentation is light to medium, it's not a scary bronzer to use nor is it so thinly sheer that you have to pack it on.

This is one of those "fool proof" bronzers, go to, and easy. Great color, no shimmer, and just excellent for those who have fair to medium skin tones. No hint of orange ( thank you EB!)

While all this is great, I must admit, I really have no idea what the hype is about this bronzer. YES, it's a beautiful color, YES, it's a great texture and packed well. YES it's easy and foolproof

But that last bit seems to be the winning factor that seems to make this a favorite.

This is a nice bronzer with all the right aspects to make it a staple and go to but this is just not an HG for me.

I have only been using this for about 2 weeks so my feelings may change, but I have truthfully quite neutral feelings towards this product.

Have you tried anything from the Edward Bess line?

The Christmas Grouch

2011-12-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I went to probably one of the scariest places on the planet

Rockefeller Center, post Christmas Tree Lighting

Swarovsky replica of the star on top of the tree

Christmas in New York, the lights are festive, and the city get's decked out for the holidays, but in truth, I think a good portion of the planet is between the blocks of 42nd st and 49th. Tight area + rushy city folk don't mix

I have actually never gotten closer to the famous Christmas tree than this. I never plan to personally, the shoving and pushing puts me in an incredibly bad mood, and the holiday season which I love, is starting to drive me insane with the shopping and crowds. Very ready for New Years.

Sounding like a real grouch...don't mean to, but the highlight of my day was finding the perfect Snoopy wrapping paper

Anyone else feel stressed around the holidays???

Show down - Eye Primers - Laura Mercier vs NARS

2011-12-06T18:22:00.000-08:00

When I buy an eye primer, it's just kinda... boring. It's not exciting, but man o man are they necessary!

I have only tried a few Urban Decay being one of them. I don't think I will ever go back to that one. Felt like a cross between silly putty, and rubber cement - just my two cents.

I had recently finished the NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base, and am currently using the Laura Mercier Eye Basics.

Time for a show down on which I prefer

Sorry for the Internet images, I cant for the life of me find my NARS one - I probably threw it out - whoops! but moving on

Basic Facts:

My lid type (oily)

Laura Mercier Eye Basics

Pro:

Variety of shades, including a blue shade which claims to "brighten" these are great when you just want to swipe something on to even out the veins on your lids or any discoloration

Cons:

Claims to be crease proof - untrue ( whole purpose of an eye primer)

Thicker constancy, harder to spread

Gel liners do not last 8 hours

NARS Smudgeproof Eye shadow Base

Pros:

Creases but after about 14 hours (on me)

Easy to blend, gel texture

Clear color to let eye shadow colors show through

Shadows and liners stay on all day with no to minimal touch ups

Con:

Clear shade does not cover discoloration

The winner in my opinion is NARS, and here is why:

The Laura Mercier eye primer is just not as good as the NARS in terms of longevity of your shadows or liners. The whole purpose of a primer, is to keep your shadows from creasing and your liners from fading.

With the LM my gel liners, on which I do an almost daily kitten flick disappear at about 3 o clock. The flick is gone. The liner itself on the whole eye is gone by 5pm. I apply my eye make up about 6:45am. To remedy this I now need to powder over my gel liner. This is something I never had to do with the NARS primer, even in the summer. My eye shadows also crease with the LM primer I am currently using. They crease at about 4:30pm, the NARS also creased on me but well into the late night, when I plain stopped caring.

Also when applying this primer in the morning, it's not as tacky nor stiff as the Urban Decay but it is less blend able than the NARS gel consistency primer due to it's more dry formula which rubs against my eyes very slightly!

This is a very short review but really I think the two above points are really all I require from an eye primer and the one I am currently using is falling short. They are both the same price at $24 dollars and if I had the choice I would repurchase NARS in a heart beat.

Dior Snow BB Cream - A Review

2011-11-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

Words could not describe how *excited* I was to try the Dior Snow BB cream, a complete surprise gift. Don't you love it when people give you a gift you never asked for it, and it's something you actually wanted?

Ahh isn't it beautiful. I was a devoted fan of the Dior Snow sunscreen which I used exclusively for years, so when I heard they had created a BB cream, well the expectations were sky high. This is Dior

Basic facts: Comes in a 1 fluid oz tube, SPF 50 PA+++ ( just like the sunscreen), nozzle type pump distribution ( love), and only comes in 1 shade ( HUGE CON)

The pump is extremely hygienic, easy to push down without any weird resistance. One squirt however I find is a bit too much for my daily application preference so there is some waste. I usually use that on my neck...

For those interested in the ingredients

Coloring, as stated previously this only comes in ONE color ( c'mon Dior, really...) I cant really blame them, BB creams are not exactly famous for their color selection, and I believe this is an Asian exclusive.

For reference this is a complete and perfect match for an NC 25

Usually an NC 25, my natural color, but since fall has arrived, I am more of an NC 23 going down to NC 20 but my hands are still NC 25

1 pump

Spreading it out

Though it looks dewy, once set, it dries to a more satin powdery finish

Now that the specs are done, here are my thoughts.

I hate this BB cream. (Pains me to say)

I have used it about 5 times? during the last 4 months? and it just absolutely stinks on me.

First attempt

BB creams claim to be an all in 1 product, though I usually wear primer, sometimes I'm just in a rush and neglect it. Usually I grab a BB cream, set it with powder, and it's decent throughout the day. Not this.

By 11 o clock I had patchiness all over my face, the middle portion of my face was soo oily and the sides were drying and cracking quickly - I ended up taking a make up removing wipe during lunch and just got rid of all of it before it just started to look ridiculous. I would rather be make up free, than be a patchy oily mess at work, and with 7 more hours to go, who knew what it would look like.

Try number 2 (lesson learned) primed and applied.

Even with a primer, my T zone got suspiciously extra oily, but the cheeks looked far better than the first time. Over a few days I tried numerous primers but always received the same results. I came to the conclusion this product makes me overly oily.

Try number 3

I decided to set it with a very matte powder. Concentrating on my T zone. Another reason I did not like this BB cream, was the fact that it never really seems to set and sink in with your skin. Granted they advise after about 30 minutes, it synergies with the skin to create the overall flawless look.

Hmmm how about 5 hours later, and it still looks like I pasted my face with something? It just never seems to meld into the skin to look like skin.

I always set my make up with a setting spray, but for this product it did extremely little.

I had come to the conclusion that

1. My skin just doesn't like this product, I don't really enjoy using products that seem to draw in shine, that is not part of the highlighting family

-I did try this over a span of season where my skin used this product during it's combination period, and more normal period. Results were the same.

2. I'm not a fan of this constantly separating on my face, regardless of primers or setting sprays

3. The part I can't live with, is the fact that this regardless of powder ( colored, or translucent) or no powder, this just never seems to meld with the skin to look seamless, or even close. It always looks like you have something somewhat sticky on your face, and just never seems to set.

Please bear in mind that these opinions are my own, and what does or does not work for me, may be HG to you, but sorry to say, this was a disappointment.

Product Rant over.

Bioderma - The stuff of make up removing legend

2011-11-27T12:46:00.000-08:00

Bioderma, the overseas cult make up removing product that us girls in the USA have only heard rumors of it's incredible ability, and for the rest of the world, you probably have access or own it - DRAT

To kill the little suspense you have gathered from my non descript title, this post will be a product rave.

This was a MUST GET item on my overseas wish list, and when I saw it in the drugstore I grabbed the biggest bottle I saw. I was pretty confident I was going to like this, I am now kicking myself for not stuffing my suitcase with this liquid gold.

In short, this stuff is AMAZING.

The fact that it can be found world wide in drugstores only add stars to this already wonderful product.

This removes make up like an oil, but feels like a water. 1 cotton round, and the day's worth of make up is easily removed with a few quick swipes. All of it.

It feels like water on the skin, which is a huge plus, and I have no idea how they did it. I had recently been using a cleansing oil to remove my make up, and while I don't mind the oily feeling, since I know it's only on my face for about a minute, it is not the most comforting sensation to rub oil all over your face.

With Bioderma, it's so .... clean feeling. Before and during application. It feels so light when applied to the face, and it's quite miraculous how much make up it removes! You don't have to go back to an area twice to remove excess, one swipe get's it all. Once completed with the face and neck, your skin looks clean, and feels extremely comfortable and hydrated. I have semi sensitive skin, and I can vouch that it is extremely suitable. There is no hard pressing or rubbing, it's just effortless swipes.

I have tried to use this on my hands instead of a cotton round, like a cleaning oil, and think you get the maximum removal properties via the cotton round.

This does remove waterproof eye make up, but I do prefer to use another cotton round, as I don't want to have potential black marks on the rest of my face, as I swipe away.

In conclusion, if you have access to Bioderma, I would highly recommend you trying a bottle the next time you are in need of a make up remover. If it wasn't for the fact it was so heavy in it's bottle I personally would be scouring the Internet to make this home delivered every time I ran out, but shipping prices stop me.

If this was readily or even only semi readily available to me, I would say this is by far the best make up remover I have ever tried, and would consider this a complete HG in the category.

Bioderma, if you are listening, please do come on over the the United States! Thank you!

Mix and Match Warm OOTD

2011-11-27T12:45:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I tried to post an OOTD with a different photographer outside myself and my iphone. I did not like any of the photos!!! Have you ever tried having someone take pictures of your Outfit, agreed, it's a bit odd, but I missed my lobby photos more!

Today was in the 60's! - bizarre, so no jacket needed, I went for a very THICK sweater and was plenty warm and cozy

Checkered Shirt: Gap

Sweater: TopShop

Leggings: H&M

Scarf: Urban Outfitters

Over the Knee Boots: Modern Vintage (brand)

Bag: Dorothy Perkins

Checkers, Leopard, Cable knit, and Leather

How do you guys take out OOTD pictures? Does someone take them for you?

Currently on my wish list: A decent full length mirror in my own apartment!

Today's Best Shots

2011-11-27T12:45:00.000-08:00

Photos' from my morning run

Friday Night Lights

2011-11-25T18:42:00.000-08:00

Work, stress, holidays, all the typical excuses for my lack of posts

( as I am aware it continues)

While trying to sort out a better posting schedule, a few pictures I took today

Black Friday, and the beautiful things I saw to start my weekend

Hope all my fellow Americans had a great Thanksgiving!!!!

Current Lust List

2011-11-22T07:58:00.000-08:00

Because I need pictures to show me and you all the things I wish for but don't have $ for - Santa?

1st up is the Chanel Quad in Regard Perle

I have actually wanted the Regard Perle Quad for months but have yet to purchase because I kept thinking, I will buy it around Holiday time as it seems very festive for the winter holidays. I am in love with the green shade. To buy or not to buy?!!

(Quad shown in a different color) - could not find a picture online that was not a personal blog photo

*sigh, want*

DiorSnow DNA Reverse Night: For when I'm finally done with my spots and to get rid of the scars ASAP

Bobbi Brown Ivy Shimmer Ink

To use with my non exist ant Chanel Regard Pearl shadows! When I dream, I imagine the whole look. The ivy green is so stunning in the pot! the first time I saw it I wanted to buy it, but walked away

(show in black ink)

Alexander Wang Emile Bag : What I am currently saving my pennies for and failing miserably

Rose Gold hardware please!

Chantecaille Tinted Moisturizer: Seems this is creeping up all over the blogs I love to follow and the general vote is, this is a winner!

Ferregamo Shoes: Perfect for an office lady!!

Day Trip over to Bean Town!

2011-11-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

AHHHHH how did the week go by, and no other posts??? *shamed* that's me!!

The work week has been hectic, so my boyfriend and I needed to recharge and get out of the city ( it can be suffocating at times) and headed over to Boston for a day trip!

Bright and early!! It's about a 4 hour drive!

Our beautiful hotel

Boston is a large city but keeps a huge amount of it's old world charm. Since most of the buildings are considered historical land marks everything looks more classic and homey, but inside modernization has taken over!

We decided to head over to the famous Quincy Market!

Haha "Chowda" they really say it like that!!

Quincy market was BUSTLING it seemed as if everyone knew everyone. Not surprising since so many Universities are housed in Boston, I'm sure everyone is a face book Friend of everyone else...including the market staff!

In actuality, the place was PACKED because...

To our complete un awareness it was the night of the 27th annual Boston Christmas Tree Lighting! Half the city showed up!

No wonder....we thought! haha

They had great music during the live concert! Confetti was everywhere, and everyone looked happy

We decided to get out of there shortly...we left the city to avoid crowds not be in the hub bub of one!

The city had started to deck themselves out

When in Boston you have to eat certain things, like their famous seafood!

The restaurant was great! Food was good, staff were great, and it was not "too rushy" - which I hate. The restaurant was too dark to show what I ate, I took photo's but you can't see anything, bah! They also had the best beer I ever tried! I usually never have beer, I am not a fan of the taste, when asking what the name was, I was informed it was made specifically for the restaurant, sigh- typical. Enjoyable evening regardless!

Outfit of the evening

-Same o same o

Make up Bag Essentials - This is all I brought with me, along with 1 kabuki brush

Daytime SPF lip balm, night time, vamped up color

The night was over we were pooped, typical vacation requirement is to try to oversleep and order room service for breakfast before the journey home

-Just kidding, the room service is part of the package, usually I never partake, have you seen their prices????

- I also did not oversleep to my boyfriends mis fortune lol

Refreshed and ready to go back to work! (sort of)

How did you all unwind once in a while?

The Sunday Post

2011-11-13T14:58:00.000-08:00

Weekly Update!!!!

...Absolutely nothing happened this week....worked late almost everyday, or went to my over priced NON AC-ed gym to sweat and die before commuting home

Here are all the things that happened in between

Veteran's Day (Friday) I was fortunate to see the parade floats before they began their march during set up

Horses! FYI, it was FREEEEEEEEEEZING this day

Work is over! and time to head for the weekend, on the way home

Freezing my toes off while waiting for the bus...

Wow the Tow fine is so high!

On the beauty front, my favorite new winter combo has come via a la Revlon!

Revlon Black Cherry Lipstick with Bordeaux Lip gloss

On the health front, I realized I was consuming far too much of this

(This did not even taste good!!! I don't recommend the artichoke and pepperoni pizza from California Pizza Kitchen!! They're Grilled Veggie Salad is a lot tastier!)

And it was time to exchange it for this!

How can this not be good for you?? I am trying to drink one 24oz glass of this kind of mixed drink a day, let's see how this goes!!

Highlights of my weekend

Youtube Favorites of the week!

http://www.youtube.com/user/Chanelette

http://www.youtube.com/user/MissHanaG

Favorite Blog of the moment, it's a famous one, but I revisit NON STOP

http://carolinesmode.com/

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

In and Out

2011-11-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

In:

Olivia Palermo

The b*tch character on "The City" (which I have never seen) is it still on?? but I gathered as much from the commercials.

She always reminded me of Gossip Girls real life Blair Waldorf type of character

Regardless, her style, her hair, and make up - perfection

Juicing

The newest additive to my life to try to increase my health

I just bought a new juicer ( not the same as below)

Eager to see if any vi sable benefits to my skin, hair, and body come from it in a few weeks!

Regardless I am getting in my Vitamins!

Avené Gentle Gel Cleanser

My skin has been loving the simplicity of this

Out

Twighlight ( I will not insert a picture, you all know what I am talking about)

What is the new movie, Breaking Dawn? PART ONE, ugh.

I know many of you may be fans, but I personally cannot even insert the picture here...

Crazy weather

In one week we can range from 68-38 degrees here. I am constantly over dressed or under dressed for the weather, and I am quite frankly tired of it

Chapped Lips

My lips are getting chapped non stop, but luckily I have a savior

Fall Outfits - October and November OOTD's - Office Lady Wardrobe Tips

2011-11-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

When I entered the working world, the office and cubicle kind, I didn't really know what to wear. I wore office pants and a button downs just about every single day during all my internships and my 1st year working. By year two I realized, I hated what I wore, I hated that every woman on the floor had the exact same pair of Express pants as myself, and avoided daily, running into some wardrobe twin.

If pants and button downs are your preference, by all means! But I think finding your own work clothing style really helps you grab almost ready to go outfits in the morning.

I hate wearing pants to work now, I nearly never do unless it is dreadfully cold, and even then I would rather double layer stockings and wear knee highs.

Here are the outfits I wore this past October and beginning half of November.

My Fall Office Style

Sweater: Korea, Tank: UO, Sparkle Skirt: Club Monaco, tights, and Steve Madden Shoes

I think every office women needs a black sweater. Some people state you need many shades, I just own several black ones, this being my favorite. It has an asymmetrical abstract flower design, and chiffon sleeves. Offices can be cold, and having a sweater on looks conservative for certain job functions

Wool skirts are staples of mine during the chillier months. Wool skirts don't have to be boring. This one has a subtle silver sparkle design that is not over the top, but adds interest and has a more interesting shape

1. Black Sweater - Korea, American Eagle Tank, H&M Skirt, Steve Madden heels

2. Uniqlo Button Down, Brown Pencil Skirt - Korea, Bandalino Brown Heels

3. Blush colored blouse and Cobalt Blue Skirt - Korea, Good Will Belt, H&M Nude Heels

As you can see, I prefer pencil skirts. I think they are flattering on my body shape, come in an assortment of colors that can still be different yet safe ( I love that Cobalt Blue Skirt)

Outfit Two does have a longer pencil skirt and white button down because it was a day full of meetings.

When you meet new people in the office I think a crisp white shirt can be refreshing ( I did button the sleeves later on) The pencil skirt I wore was only slightly longer than my usual kind, to remain on the safe side of whomever I meet

The AE tank in Outfit 1 is all plain white on the bottom and looks boring, but the design looks interesting when cut in with the pencil skirt's high waist

I enjoy keeping a variety of heel colors at the office. Just change when you arrive. Black, nude, and brown, should get you through most situations

1. H&M blouse, Gold long Chains from Lorrain Stanick's blog, Cobalt blue skirt - Korea, Steve Madden Heels

2. UO white dress, Sweater- Korea

Don't be afraid of mixing colors like pink and blue in the office. The contrasting colors can be quite complimentary. This blouse has puffy princess shoulders. To show off the design I left my hair in an up do, but to not make me look like a triangle, I added a delicate long necklace vertically going down my body to bring balance

This top is almost as long as a dress but can be too short for the office. I belted the middle and pulled up the remaining material to create a poof effect on the waist, and shorten the length

Sometimes, you run out of work clothes and have to pull from your personal wardrobe to wear to work. The white dress is very low cut for work so I buttoned up all the buttons in my cardigan to keep that area hidden, and left my hair in the front of my body all day.

The skirt looks short because the white dress and black stockings contrast to show their differences. The dress really is knee length but looks shorter.

To make it look like you are wearing something longer, pop on a shorter cardigan, to elongate the length of the dress by the viewer

When buttoned fully, this cardigan reaches about only my belly button which elongates the length of my skirt

Dress- H&M, Sweater - Zara, Heels- Steve Madden

Little surprise in the back! This black dress can be pretty dull and look boring, even for the office. It came with an attached sash. My favorite dress trick is to put on a brighter colored cardigan and tie the sash over the sweater. From the front, everything looks the same, but from the back you have a nice contrast between the two colors for when you walk away as an interesting design

Dress and Shoes-H&M, Blazer- UO

Ah the black blazer. A complete MUST HAVE in my opinion. At the end of summer when the chill barely begins I live in blazers. Work appropriate ones act as cover ups, and you can wear them in or out of the office all day without changing.

If it's too dull, try finding one with structures sleeves or shoulders for a more interesting design

1. Blush Blouse- Korea, Pants- Epress, Belt- unknown

2. Blouse- UO, Pants- Express, Lorrain Stanick Chains

Office pants and me just don't get along. Every pair of pants I purchase regardless of length needs to be tailored, as you can see from the photos, they just don't flatter me! They seem to make me look shorter (with the heels) and bigger.

Dreading winter when I have to wear these more often.

1. UO blazer, Zara Skirt, Unknown Tank, Tights

2. H&M Top, Express Pants

Adding interesting patterns paired with basic colors can bring some interest in your pieces.

This green skirt in the warmer months I pair with white tops only but in the winter I add in the black accent pieces to emphasize the cooler weather, but the green does not look out of place, regardless of how loud the shade is

Tops with different print including subtle animal print I find can be quite nice in the office, and does not look boring

Sweater- Korea, T- Alexander Wang, Skirt- Club Monaco, Belt - Good Will

Playing with texture even with dark colors can look quite different without being obvious. This smooth T shirt, (yes a T shirt, I wear them to work, and hide them) with this sheer chiffon sleeved and asymmetrical flower design sweater along with folded bubble skirt all may seem like too much.

Because the colors are quite dark, and complimentary it looks work appropriate and has interest. The gold in my belt brings some semi brightness

Yes, I wear ALOT of black tights!

When office hours are over---

I realized I had almost no outfits from my off work life. Just outter wear! What can I say, it's been cold!!!

UO blazer, BDG Jeans, Madewell Combat Boots, A Wang T, Dorothy Perkins Bag

Last warm day of the season! This was the day I bought my Doc Martens. I wore this navy blue blazer which can easily be used in every day life, and work situations

H&M Coats and Scarf , Dorothy Perkins Bag

Buying accessories in neutral and easy to wear colors can mix and match with many colors in your wardrobe with ease

A gorgeous pair of warm, comfortable fall shoes are needed. In dead of winter, big Lumberjack boots come out, but in the fall, when walking through the leaves, I think sturdy leather shoes are timeless

You can see from my last outfit post here, I don't own many clothes (ok I think I do) but I repeat the same 10 pieces. Staples in your closet I believe are all you need. These two posts I hope show the versatility of my wardrobe staples

I hope this helped those of you who like insight to what other's wear to work. Office wear can sometimes be tricky.

Do you have any office wear favorites?

Lazy Sunday

2011-11-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

Quite a lazy Sunday today, met a girl friend for lunch and dessert with some catch up chit chat over tea

Today's FOTD contained a few new items I am currently playing with

Benefit Watt's Up! Highlighter: 1st day of use and love it! Thank you Twitter ladies for convincing me to get it!

Dior Snow BB cream (review should be coming), Laura Mercier Eye Basics (new), Anastasia Brow Fix (new) Clarins blush in Soft Peach 02, and Chanel eye pencil in Jade Black 66 ( not pictured)

Check out the glow from Watt's Up! *sigh* to poor bathroom lighting, but it looks far better in the sun

OOTD

Monki Dress, H&M Collar, black tights, and over the knee boots ( not pictured)

I met my girl friend to deliver some belated birthday gifts. I recently included as an add in to her gift, these Harajuku Tweezerman Tweezers, so cute! I gave her the red one, she loves red

Sunday is the day to treat yourself, so yummy Pad Thai for lunch! mmm I love it with shrimp!

Indulgence and chatting continued over tea, this place is adorable no?

The waitresses in this establishment used to wear blue and white pinafore aprons and dresses with adorable headbands in pigtail braids. I loved it! They all looked like they were from Alice in Wonderland. They no longer wear this uniform, but I consoled myself with rose cheesecake and ice cream =)

What do you do on your lazy Sundays?

Fall Favorites

2011-11-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

We are now all bundling up with our knitted scarves, chunky boots, and pea coats.

Time to bust out the fall make up and skin care favorites!

For skin care, as the weather gets chillier and drier, more moisture needs to be soaked into the skin for proper hydration, hydrated skin glows, despite weather!

Avéne Gentle Gel Cleanser: For winter I would suggest using a gentle moisturizing cream cleanser in the morning. Nothing too stripping, something basic and simple. The Avéne cleanser I have is a gel, but all my cream cleansers are for oily skin and currently I am more normal skin typed.

This is light, slightly fragranced, and becoming a quick new favorite of mine for the fall

The Body Shop Vitamin E Toner: A hydrating toner would be another great way to get moisture into your skin easily. This is simple, hydrating, refreshing, and easily accessible

Joe Malone Cologne: This scent is not something I wear most of the year, but now is the time of year you can get away with something warmer and deeper.

Origins Vitazing: Skin still looking dull? Try spreading this moisturizer on. Now only do you get added hydration but a glow, with a bit of covering properties. Less coverage than a tinted moisturizer but a definite pep to the skin!

-I wear a thin layer of this over my moisturizer as a base and it looks great under mineral foundation! In the summer this product made me break out, but now that my skin is normal, it seems to tolerate it just fine! - Go figure.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion: Switching to a thicker moisturizer for day and night will make all the difference! Seal in all the hydrating products used prior with a lotion you can count on. In the winter I tend to almost over moisturize, I wait about 3 minutes and see it all soak in! Skin is extra thirsty this time of year.

The Body Shop Vitamin E sink in Moisture Mask: When I first saw this I saw a woman in The Body Shop buy TEN of these masks. I thought, "Must be good!" and got one. It's something I use with precaution, it is definetly more suited towards the dry skin type but about once every two weeks I layer on a very thin layer of this, wait a few moments, and tissue off the remnants to give my skin a moisture surge!

Moisture Sheet Masks: They make you look scary when on, but after you peel them off, it's all worth it. Once you peel off the mask, let the mask moisture stay on your skin, rub them in until all absorbed for maximum benefits

Body Butter! Tis the season for the non stop parade of trying Body Butters! Thicker and more hydrating! This is Carried Away by B&BW ( which I am not loving, boo) but will use up! My favorites are Coconut and Vanilla scents for winter!

Other honorable skin mentions include!

Clinique All About Eye Cream - Rich: I just recently purchased a new jar - Jumbo size! I don't know how many of these I have been through, but this is by far my favorite hydrating moisture eye cream

Créme de la Mer: Used during dry skin SOS periods! Review can be found here!

Clinique Mositure Surge for stubburn dry patches that just wont die! Review can be found here!

Nail Colors

My yearly favorites are OPI's Red Cherry Chutney, and Russian Navy. This year Linkin Park After Dark finally made the Rotation!

Make up:

Moistutizing Foundation: or BB cream. My favorite foundations I have realized are mineral, but dry patches which are more likely to occur can really be emphasized with the buffing motion. The most hydrating foundation in my collection for my skin type is my Lancome Teint Miracle, review link!

My second favorite hydrating foundation is the Bourjois Healthy Mix! Linked.

Blushes: Plums, deeper more sultry colors come start coming out.

Two that I use yearly are MAC's Lady Blush cream blush, I love cream blushes in winter! and gorgeous MAC's Gentle! My favorite plum which leans more raspberry, but is so pretty!

NARS Dolce Vita: My ultimate Fall blush. The perfect berry shade. The next time you are at a NARS counter please see it, please swatch it, and please try it. You won't regret it!

I also love the corresponding lipgloss for night's out, and lipstick for the day time!

Honorable mention goes out to NARS Mounia and Sin!

Blistex! I have tried so many lip balms including Burts Bees, Carmex, and By Terry. This is by far my favorite! The little blue jar!

Gold eye shadow! I usually wear champage to work on the lids I know, it can be a bit of a *yawn* but gorgeous gold shades seem to be enhanced when wearing a berry toned blush. Currently using this Majorlica Majorca shade and My Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill which is linked here!

Swatches! L-R ( Ladyblush (old formula), Gentle, Dolce Vita Blush, Dolce Vita Gloss

Dolce Vita Gloss in Action

What are some of your cold weather Favorites?

It's Just Not Working Out...

2011-11-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

I recently noticed, that my "Finished Products of the Month" posts seem to get the most feed back, so in the same vein, I present to you the "Products that are Just not Working out" - This can be viewed as Things I Regret Buying - Skin Care Edition

I am posting these because I have huge doubts on me ever actually finishing some of these products...

A lot of name brands. I don't mean to hate, I just want to share my honest experiences on things that I know have high acclaim that just did not work for me

Boscia Luminizing Black Masque: I believe this is one of Boscia's best selling products...

I just, don't see it. You apply this as a thick black mask, I mean CHARCOAL BLACK, you do not want to have company over anytime soon! Let the mask dry, and peel off.

The peeling depending on layer of thickness is difficult. Some parts come off easily, some parts take longer to dry, and if your skin is sensitive, it may hurt. I did not really mind any of this so long as the result was worth while.

I would rinse the remnants I was unable to peel and it would reveal admit tingly slightly more glowing skin, but...what mask after you apply it and wash it off doesn't offer a slight improvement? It is just the top layer being peeled and washed. I am actually almost finished with this tube, and have found no gained luminosity.

I think this mask is only beneficial to those who have very minor skin issues and just want a pick me up, but for me it was a bit too much work, with results not worthy enough for a re purchase.

Khiel's Daily Skin Clearing Treatment: I used about half this tube when I realized, this was doing nothing for me. Salicylic Acid to prevent new spots from appearing. I have had more spots appearing since purchasing this months ago, my marks do not fade quicker as it promises, and I feel this is an additional step. I think many La Roche Posay products beat this any day!

Estee Lauder Idealist: A product I actually did finish. This is bottle number 2 ( a gift...) If you have never felt silicone on your face you may think this is a miracle skin smoothing product. If you have ever applied primer to your face, then you may wonder why you are putting on a primer so early in your skin care routine.

I have used this on and off for about a year, and never saw an actual decrease in my pores, just a nice *slick* feeling which I know are just the silicone products.

I am interested to try EL new Skin Toner Correcting Serum, but for me, this was a fail, which I now must repeat in bottle number 2.

Philosophy's Hope in a Bottle: My 1st Philosophy product. I bought this years ago, the sample size. After years of having this in my collection, the mini size, and seeing it half full before *now throwing it in the trash* I realize I did not like this product at all.

Designed for more spotty skin, this moisturizer was not very hydrating on my combination skin, and I feel Burts Bees Acne Moisturizer while not the most moisturizing item on the market, far out beats all the claims this more expensive product claims with the same aims.

Korres White Tea Gel Cleanser: I was sooo excited to try this. I wanted to love this, but I don't. To me this was the Natural, Greek, scented version of Cetaphil. Soaps that just"clean"the outer most surface of your skin. No penetration, minimal lather, just simple. IF you are a simple person who likes brands such as Cetaphil but wish to go the more natural and paraben free route, this may be for you. The scent is ok, but this just doesn't fulfill the things I am looking for in a face wash. Very gentle but I don't think it would work on very dry skin as it seems to help balance combo skin towards normalcy.

Origins Ginzing: This was my fault. This eye cream does exactly what it claims. I am actually thankfully nearly done with this. It really does help brighten those AM eyes, de puffs slightly and just makes you look more awake. It never claimed to do anything outside that, but I do wish it was more moisturizing. I see with the new fall weather my eye area becoming incredibly dry, and I am hoping to finish this soon so I can move on to a more hydrating formula.

If you find in the morning your eyes look reminiscent to zombie like, this may help!

Last but not least

My most regrettable purchase

Benefit's Ultra Radiance: I have used this Radiance Spray 2x. That's right, twice. That's it, and I know I hate it. Why? I used it in 2 different seasons, with two different moisturizers and gave myself a radiance spritz to find a huge amount of pain! Every time I used this product my face would hurt sooooooooo bad, and would become red and inflamed. I want to chuck this out the window. This product alone make me weary of the whole Benefit Skin care line

So, from all my skin care adventures this year, these are the items that remain in my collection that I stare at with regret.

What are some of your skin care regrets?

Finished Products of September and October

2011-10-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

It's finally happened, I finally posted one of these Finished Products Post BEFORE the end of the month! Hmm considering I am a month behind and combining the two, the efforts may have backfired!

Hmmm quite a pile of...well garbage now =P

On to the reviews!

Skin Care!

I think I'm just done with Khiels. I want to like this brand, but it's just not working!

Khiels Rare Earth Toner: Claims to Mattify Skin and Minimize Pores. Used the entire bottle up, and saw neither of these claims happening. Took about three months and saw zero change. I got just as oily everyday, and did not find this helpful in combating the daily combination skin problems.

Will not be repurchasing.

Khiels Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser: In the summer, I like to use a daily exfoliator as a face wash. This is probably one of the finest daily scrubs I have tried. The scrub particles are very fine, and do not feel damaging on the skin in the least. I actually loved the texture! The only problem is, I didn't feel like this did anything in the long term outside give myself a bit of scrub in the AM. It didn't feel deep pore cleaning to me, in fact, I used a cleanser after this step just to feel the deep clean. For this reason, I don't think I would repurchase this.

I tried the Rare Earth line because I did enjoy the Rare Earth Deep Pore Mask. I had high hopes for the rest of the line, and I am sorry that these did not perform to my expectations. I would repurchase the mask.

Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion: Used to calm down and prevent cystic acne from coming to the surface ( the BANE of my existence) This product works, sometimes. You have to do it VERY early in the cyst's existence. If you wait to long, and long not being long at all! it's going to come out, and this does well...nothing. This is a shake up item and is very very watery. When you apply it ( I use a Q tip) it drips right down your face. Also I hated the fact that I had to use a Q tip. I tried using my fingers, but after a few days noticed my fingers were all peeling. Using the Q tip prevented this, but it absorbed alot of the product.

Although this offered results, I prefer my Clinique blemish solutions, which does the same thing, is slightly easier to find, is cheaper, and a gel, so does not drip, and I have no issues applying it with my fingers.

Will not be repurchasing.

Oxy Maximum Strength Cream: I know you're not supposed to use high dosages of Benzoyl Peroxide to combat spots ( this one being 10%) but this REALLY helps bring down my spots, and prevents not cystic acne but more normal pimples and white heads from becoming issues.

I have already repurchased this.

Lancome High Resolution Refill 3x: A sample that has lasted me about 4 months? I really like this!!! Unfortunately if it has a long name like that, it usually means its expensive. This is a moisturizer used to prevent wrinkles. I don't really have a wrinkle problem yet, but have noticed some lines on my neck, also when I am very tired or stress, I seem to develop deep laugh lines. These really age you! I would apply this on my neck and a bit on my laugh lines every night, and I can confidently state this has diminished them.

The lines on my neck have faded, I also moisturize that area in the AM with a normal moisturizer, and the laugh lines are all gone!

Luckily I have another sample of this to last me a few more months, but I think I would purchase the full size product once it is out, as I have found results with this cream. I don't think I would use it all over my face, but if that is a worry of yours, this is very fast absorbing, and although it is a cream, does not feel greasy at all.

Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash in Pink Grapefruit: Another one of these down! I used to use this after the Khiels Daily Cleanser. I have repurchased this several times. I am now using it again, but the green version which calms down redness. I had realized within this Acne line the soaps are all slightly different in severity on the skin. The original Orange, no scent version seems the harshest in my opinion, pink grapefruit being in the middle, and the current green no redness being the most mild. If you like this line, but found it being too gentle or too harsh, maybe try another product in the line to suit your needs, but still remove the spots.

Repurchase? Yes.

St. Ives Green Tea Scrub: Sample from my vacation. This feels and smells very nice! I prefer this over the Apricot version because the grains feel finer, and the result is just as refreshing! St. Ives is a very well priced brand, and I would repurchase the full size.

Hand + Body Creams

Neutrogena Hand Cream: Did not like this at all. It was very sticky, and felt like solidified glycerin. Hard to absorb and left what looked and felt like white slime all over my hands.

Was happy this was done. Would not repurchase.

Korres Body Butter in Guava: Used this on my vacation. If you have very dry skin on your body, I would consider looking into this product. Very dry patches would be soothed by this thick cream. Because I don't have dry skin on my body, I found this incredibly hard to blend and absorb. I was unaccustomed to using such a thick cream, and for myself this is not what I needed, so I would not repurchase, but would recommend for those who had different needs.

Bath and Body Works Coconut Vanilla Body Lotion: The types of lotions I need are very easily fulfilled by BB&W. I love Coconut...I constantly purchase Coconut body lotions to the great dismay of my boyfriend who can't stand the smell. I would not run out and purchase this, but I do think these scents are great for fall and winter.

Repurchase? Only if it was on sale. I think the original price is not worth the product.

Sabon Hand Cream: Not this is what glycerin hand creams should be like! Light, pleasant smelling, non sticky, and absorbent while healing. Will gladly purchase more of these!

Hair +Body Care

Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Wash: I was sooo excited when I received this from Sephora. I have always wanted to purchase Philosophy bath products because they smell amazing!!! Unfortunately my love was quickly lit out. Vanilla birthday cake scent from the bottle? Definitely. In the wash, NOT. Every time I used this in the shower it smelled like BURNT Vanilla Birthday Cake. I couldn't escape it. It came with every use.

This was quite a disappointment and has made me hesitant to purchase from the brands bath line. I did find out on the very last day of use, it made a decent bubble bath.

Would not repurchase the full size.

Sephora Nail Polish Remover: Some of you may not buy "higher brand" nail polish removers, but I hate the ones they sell in drugstores. 5 cotton pads later and mass amounts of scrubbing and you have 1 hand done. Forget glitter polishes completely.

I really do like the Sephora Nail Polish remover, and I do think it is worth the money for the fact that I only need 1 cotton pad, and almost no effort for removal.

I have already repurchased this item.

Fresh Shower Gel: Got this free in a gift set. The smell and lather is nice, but I don't think I would ever spend the money to buy a shower gel from Fresh

Would not repurchase

Moroccan Oil: A completely hair must have for me. More details can be found on my Top 10 post.

I have already repurchased this! I would have bought the bigger bottle, but could not find it.

Make up

Quite a pile this time!

NARS Silicone Free Primer: This product is discontinued, so I will not go much into it. I liked this primer, it did not break me out, and lasted me over a year (1.75 oz - almost 2 foundation sizes!). I had heard they removed this from the market because it was sold as Silicone Free, but later found out it did contain Silicone?? I don't know. I would have purchased this again, but I still prefer the Laura Mercier Primer.

Repurchase: If not discontinued I would have.

NARS Eye shadow Base: This lasted me about 7-8 months with almost daily use. I did prefer this to UD Primer Potion- which to me feels like wet cement...It has a nice gel consistency, is pretty easy to blend, does not dry out too fast on the lids for application, and is clear which I did like.

Repurchase: I would buy this again

Fresh Sugar Lip Balm in Rose: My second tube. I lost my first one when I went away to Las Vegas and repurchased there. This has a beautiful color, it looks very red in the tube but after application, the color is just sheerly perfect. I did like that this had SPF which is now a requirement of mine, but I would not buy this again. I think it's too expensive for what it is, and a bit too waxy.

Repurchase: No

Sephora Brand Blush in Coral Frission: Uhhhhhhh...internal debate on this product. I liked the color of this blush I did, but I hit pan on it after about 7 uses...The pigmentation on the finger was fine, but on a brush was not...I hit pan because I had to pack this stuff on with a MAC 109 to get as much color as I could. I finished about 75% of the product, and one night noticed I had some powder on the rim. I blew away the powder and the thing exploded in my face...

They do not sell this shade anymore, but I know a co worker who had a different shade, and was insanely pigmented! I think the blushes are hit and miss, the packaging is flimsy, and my co worker's blush also broke, so they are not held together well.

Repurchase: No.

MAC Lip Conditioner in Petting Pink: I bought this because it had SPF and the color was so cute! This is surprisinly hydrating, and had a nice faint vanilla scent. It does not last very long on the lips, but they do sell a small variety of shades, and have new ones pop in random collections throughout the year. I have 2 back ups of this product in different shades so they are fun to buy as a quick lip product with some lip balm benefits.

Repurchase: I already have, but don't think I would buy many more unless the color was very very nice

Maybelline Dream Matte Powder: My first completed face powder...and it's from Maybelline! Surprisingly good stuff! Quite fine for drugstore, and is probably my HG blot powder. I have one at work, one at home, and one in my purse. I use it mainly as a blot powder, but on it's final days I just wore concealer, and this powder as my "Foundation" and it held up very well with a spritz of Fix +. It did slightly oxidize with this method, but it was not drastic to me.

Repurchase: Most definitely!

Ok, omg... this was incredibly long, for those who stuck to the end, I commend you!!

What have you finished this month?

Wedding Nails - Turnings Lemons to Lemonade!

2011-10-27T18:34:00.001-07:00

Fall is here people!

While every other sane person is brining out their "Linkin Park After Dark" and "You Don't Know Jaques" I suddenly got into a sheer pink phase - go figure- I'm a few seasons behind!

Anyway, I realized my pale pink nail polish collection, for lack of a better word, sucked.

I had about 5 shades and I hated all of them. They did not look right on my skin, or the formula was just too sheer, too milky, too... NOT THE RIGHT PINK

I had my mind set to purchase OPI's Sweetheart and Essie's Ballet Slippers - Cult classics

Last night in such an urge to have pastel pink nails I grabbed two pale pinks which I hated, but thought "what the heck" I'm going to purchase some good ones tomorrow, this will sat ate me until then. I didn't even wear a base coat, because I thought I would take them off immediately.

And then….the angels came down, and granted me some heavenly mercy.

OPI's Bubble bath: Purchased this because I heard Giada De Laurentiis wore this shade

Bourjois Rose Lounge: Purchased because I heard Kate Middelton wore this on her wedding day - oh I am so easily swayed

Both formulas: SHEER, the 17 coats kind of sheer, and Bourjois Rose Lounge to me is unnecessarily thick.

1 coat of Bubble bath, and 2 coats of Rose Lounge later and Ta Da

Perfect Wedding Nails:

They look more pink and less nude in real life and I love them!

Don't mind the air bubbles!! I need a new Top Coat!

For November I have decided to go on a "No Buy" for all things towards beauty and girliness.

Aka no clothes, make up, skin care, nail polish. Argh, frustrating but must be done. Holiday season is coming!!

With this end result I have found I did not have to purchase more polishes but to utilize what I already had, let's hope this lasts 30 days strong!!