Happy New Year! Giveaway ends TONIGHT!

Hey girls, Happy New Year! I just wanted to let you know that my giveaway ends tonight. Also, I wanted to apologize for being a bad blogger in these recent weeks. I have a really good reason but I can't talk about it yet!

This year has been amazing for me. New home, my daughter's first birthday, her second Christmas, and the privilege of having the best friends and family. Also, 2010 is the year that I really got into beauty and all that it entails. I discovered beauty blogs and blogging and through this process, I have met some wonderful people. Thanks to the beauty community, I have learned so much: tips & tricks, brands I never heard of, and BRUSHES. Yeah, brushes! I never used them and I now know that I've spent years doing makeup the hard way.

In this upcoming year, I'd like to spend more time dedicating myself to this blog. More posting, more topics, and more giveaways!

Anyway, I hope you all have a FABULOUS year in 2011!

MAC & Sephora Goodies :)

Yesterday, I picked up a few things at MAC from the Cham-Pale collection (now in stores and online in the US). I also saw the Stylishly Yours collection. I wasn't wowed by anything in particular, but overall, I liked what I saw. I'm a golden, sparkly, neutral lovin' woman so Cham-Pale was right up my alley. Then today, I received my package from Sephora.

Click the picture to zoom in

I'm sorry if the picture quality isn't fantastic but I'm using my backup camera until I get my baby back! So here's what I got:

Benefit - Bella Bamba

Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet+ (Shade: 25)

MAC Special Reserve Highlight Powder in Rose Ole

MAC Fix+ Lavendar

MAC Chromagraphic Pencil in NC15/NW20

I'm excited to test this stuff out, except for the foundation because I already know how fantastic it is. However, I would like to formally discuss in a future post my personal opinions on Mat Velvet+ versus the HD foundation. As for the Chromagraphic pencil, I wanted that sucker since Pret-A-Papier but it sold out before I could get my paws on it. I'm also interested in Fix+. From what I read, it's like a love / hate thing. I've never used it before but I hear that you either can't live without it or it's just nothing more than special water. I haven't used Bella Bamba yet, but it smells just like watermelon. Seriously, it's yummy! I was just surprised by how small it was compared to the other boxed powders. Last but not least, the highlight powder. Originally, I was going to buy both of them (the other being Chez Chez Lame) but I don't think it's worth having both. They're really pretty, but not essential. I think I was drawn in by the pretty design but I'll give you a better review when I try everything out. 

Four days left!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I know I did! My daughter had such an awesome Christmas and it couldn't have went any better. So, here's the bad news. I went to my grandma's for Christmas and I left my good camera there! Booooo! She lives about 45 minutes away and we just got hit with a blizzard so I probably won't be able to get it back until this weekend. Unfortunately, I had pictures on it for the blog that I didn't upload yet. The good news? I have a back up camera so I have plenty of things coming up this week!

In other news, there's just four days left to enter my giveaway before it ends on Friday, December 31st! If you haven't entered yet but would like to, CLICK HERE!

Merry Christmas!

Good morning! I just wanted to wish my lovely readers a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Currently, I'm waiting for my boyfriend to wake up so we can open our presents. I have to make the coffee first. It's like he can smell it brewing so he knows it's time to get up. I'm excited to watch my daughter open her gifts. Last Christmas, she had just turned four months old, so this year will be a lot more fun for her. We have a few places to go and a lot of people to see so I better start getting ready. Before I end this post, I'd like to share a picture of my daughter in her Christmas dress (her hair was still kinda wet!). She's such a cutie!

Loving Honeylove

I picked up Honeylove over this past weekend. It's my first matte lipstick from MAC. The color itself belongs in the 'my lips but better' category. Once I tried it on, it seemed very familiar to me. That's probably because (color wise) it's very comparable to Hug Me and Jubilee (both Lustres) -- two colors that I've talked about on this blog before.

Described as a "light beige toned with rose", $14.50 USD

The great thing is, I love matte colors because it creates a balance when I wear shimmery shadows (which is almost every day). Honeylove, in particular, is long wearing and the color will flatter many. It applies smoothly and evenly with amazing color payoff -- very pigmented and opaque. I would say that I had 3 hours of wear. In all fairness, by hour three, I was eating so maybe it would've lasted longer if I hadn't.

The bad? At first, it felt rather moist on my lips but after the first hour, they started to feel dry. As I always say on this blog, you MUST exfoliate first because this lipstick will put every dry, cracked area of your lips under the microscope.

Swatches:

Honeylove on its own

L-R: Hug Me, Honeylove, Jubilee

My recommendation: If you like matte finishes, can handle the dryness, and fancy the 'my lips but better' colors, then Honeylove is a winner. If you don't really like matte finishes but you prefer the color, I'd check out Hug Me or Jubilee.

Hello, hello!

Hey lovelies, I just wanted to touch base with you. I haven't been paying much attention to my blog in the last week but it's because (as I said in my last post) getting ready for Christmas has been extremely hectic. I'm a last minute shopper... that's totally my fault. Anyway, I took some pictures for a little review but I'm not telling you what it is! Okay, I'll give you a hint. It's a MAC lipstick from the permanent line. It is a 'my lips but better color' and it has a matte finish. Any guesses? :)

Hello Kitty Beauty for Sephora

Sephora is having an exclusive two-day private event for beauty insiders (it's free to sign up!) where you can purchase from the line of Hello Kitty Beauty. The event starts today (December 18th) and ends tomorrow night at 11:59 PST. The line of cosmetics will officially release in stores and online sometime in mid-January. Click here to shop!

The line consists of lip products, mirrors, eye kohls, nail polishes, eye shadow sticks, blotting papers, fragrance, a mini brush set, a blush stick, and more. Maybe I'll buy something but I'm not sure yet. Some of the prices seem fair and proper except for the blotting papers. $12 USD for blotting papers. Really? However, I have my eye on the apple cheeks blush stick and the set of mini eye kohls. I'm just a little hesitant because MAC's HK collection was nothing short of amazing. I'll try not to let my partial bias stand in my way though. Are you buying anything?

Source: Info and images from Sephora

PS: Sorry I haven't posted in over two days. With Christmas sneaking up, I've been so busy. I STILL have to wrap my daughter's gifts BUT I have to wait until she goes to sleep. Sadly, she doesn't go to bed until late so when she passes out, so do I. I feel like I never have time on my side!

Beauty Resolutions

Beauty Resolutions 2010

This is the time of year when we take a moment to reflect on our lives, how quickly it's passing us by, and how we can make it better. I'm 110% guilty of conjuring up unrealistic resolutions for myself. This year, I decided to take a deep breath and set small goals for myself. For example, I'd like to find a part time job. Not just for the extra cash, but to better myself and make new friends. I also have a short list of beauty related resolutions. Here's my list of things I'd like to rectify:

• I need to do a better job of washing my brushes. It's a bad habit to let them go for long and it's unsanitary. I use brush cleanser between washes but seriously, I need to step up on this. By the end of the day, however, it's the LAST thing I feel like doing.
• I need to broaden my horizons with color. In 2010, I discovered lipstick. All of the colors, formulas, brands, everything. Now it's time to play with eye shadow a little more. I'm guilty of being a neutrals kind of girl, which is perfectly OKAY! However, I think it's time to experiment more with my individuality and just have fun rather than hanging onto my earth-toned safety net every single day.
• I need to stop torturing my hands. My poor hands. They're so dry and cracked. The problem worsened when the cold weather rolled around, but constantly washing dishes and handing bleach (among other cleaning supplies) is where the problem started. Aside from that, I don't give them much TLC other than occasionally using hand cream.
• I need to give my skin a break more often. I wear makeup every day, 'nuff said.

So, that's my list. Is there anything on yours?

Source(s): Image is from self.com

Urban Decay: Book of Shadows III

When I originally posted my giveaway for the UD BoS III, I only bought one for a giveaway on this blog, not for my personal use. Then I received a $5 coupon in the mail from Ulta and I decided to invest in one for myself! I don't own any of the previous BoS sets but since I truly LOVE New York (and I have a newfound affinity for UD shadows since having the Naked palette), I figured I should get one. And, I saved $5. Five bucks is five bucks, right?!

Retail price: $54 USD

Lady Gaga continues to represent VIVA GLAM!

That's right, folks! I just read on Temptalia that Lady Gaga will be representing MAC's Viva Glam campaign for a second year! There isn't much information available yet other than she was photographed by Nick Night and styled by Nicola Formichetti. I AM SO FREAKING EXCITED!

EDIT: Here's a direct quote from MAC Cosmetics via Facebook:

"Today, M·A·C Cosmetics confirms Lady Gaga will be the next VIVA GLAM spokesperson launching in early 2011. Lady Gaga was previously a VIVA GLAM spokesperson in a campaign with Cyndi Lauper in the most successful ever for the M·A·C AIDS Fund. Since 1994 the M·A·C AIDS Fund has raised over $190 million for the cause"

Sources: Temptalia, WWD, MAC Cosmetics

Emma Stone as a blonde?!

Personally, I love watching how celebrity hair styles evolve, whether it's a total hit or a train wreck that you can't stop watching. The thing about hair is that it has the potential to completely transform your look. I know that when my hair is auburn, it not only changes the way I do my makeup, but it changes my wardrobe too. Same rules apply when my hair is highlighted or when it's just plain brown. Other factors are statement worthy too, like cutting your locks or growing it out, sporting new bangs (or do they call it a fringe now?).

I've always admired Rihanna's bold choices with her hair. She rocks it effortlessly.

So, Emma Stone went blonde for her new role as Gwen Stacey in the upcoming Spider Man film. I think she's actually a natural blonde! I love her auburn hair. It really brings out her natural beauty and makes her look glamorous. However, I can't help but to love her blonde hair too! Her makeup coordinates perfectly with her her new do, giving her a edgy-chic look. This light shade of blonde though is going to require some extra attention to her makeup so it doesn't wash out her fair skin. What do you think about Emma Stone's blonde hair? Thumbs up or down?

So excited!

The UPS man just arrived at my door not even five minutes ago with a package! I wonder what's inside?

It's the Urban Decay Book of Shadows Vol. III, of course! I was actually surprised because they didn't send a tracking number or anything. Oh well, at least they ship FAST! 

The first thing I noticed was that this sucker has some weight to it! Anyway, I just got really excited when it came. I lovelovelovelove shopping for others. I used my 100 point beauty perk to get a deluxe sample of the Make Up For Ever HD finishing powder (that one's for me! haha). I'm afraid it's going to dry me out because it's made from 100% silica, but I'll let you know how it goes...

Anyway, make sure to enter my giveaway! Click here!

Revlon Pink Pout Matte Lipstick

Thanks to Revlon for reigniting my lust for finding drugstore gems. They won me over with Soft Nude from the Color Burst line. Now I wanted to try the mattes. I've noticed on this blog that I rarely talk about drugstore cosmetics and I think it's because I've been disappointed so many times. And, since I dove into the world of high end cosmetics, I feel very put off by drug store lines. Once you go MAC, you never go back, right? Well... sort of.

About $7 USD. (It's pinker in person)

The color I felt instantly attracted to was Pink Pout. It's a more subtle blue-based pink. Just by looking at it, you can tell it's a winner among the masses for being so versatile. I was a little afraid of trying this though because it is a matte. I expected it to be very dry, perhaps even chalky. To my surprise, it wasn't like that at all. It applied smooth and evenly. It didn't feel drying and the color was very opaque. Trust me, it doesn't take much to achieve full coverage with this lipstick. I got a decent amount of wear out of it -- maybe 3 hours or so. I do recommend exfoliating before applying. However, I suggest doing this before putting on ANY lipstick.

This swatch most accurately represents the color,
but I still say it's just a little pinker (and bluer) in person.

I really like lipsticks with matte or satin finishes. I fancy shimmery shadows so a matte lip brings balance to my look. One thing I really liked about this line in particular is the packaging. It's a simple design with an ingenious little window at the top which allows you to see the lipstick inside. The thing that bothers me about drugstore makeup is that there's no testers and relying on the colored sticker as an indicator doesn't always work in my favor. Ever buy makeup from Walmart? People just open up the lipsticks and swatch them right then and there. Ick! Anyway, that's just a little perk that I appreciated.

Although Pink Pout is on the cooler side of the spectrum, this can definitely work for warm toned gals too. Have you tried this one yet? I've heard mixed reviews about this color but I really like it and I'd actually buy it again. I'm interested to know what you think!

A Berry Berry Awesome GIVEAWAY! (CLOSED)

In honor of the upcoming holidays, I'd like to offer you a little gift and a big thank you. I started this blog to talk about things other than my life. I love makeup and all that it entails. I'm not an artist, I kind of suck (no, I really do suck) at applying eyeliner, but I love it all anyway. This place is my little refuge to talk about superficial little treasures. Along the way, on my short journey, I've had the pleasure of chatting with some amazing ladies in the beauty community. Through my own words, I've watched how my opinions on things have evolved or changed completely. Everybody has been so kind to me and for that, I'm truly grateful.

So, without further adieu, I present to you the Urban Decay Book of Shadows III (UD Loves NYC) palette (limited edition, $54 USD). With this palette you get: 16 eye shadows, two 24/7 eyeliners, and a mini Primer Potion. Did I mention that it lights up too?!

Click here for additional info!

The Rules:

I thought about this for a while. The rules are going to be very simple. Everyone gets one fair shot at this palette. Believe it or not, some people don't have Twitter or Facebook or a blog, for that matter. I don't think it's fair to offer extra chances that only some people are able to partake in. Aside from that, I don't expect you to go out of your way and advertise my blog for me. I appreciate it, but I don't expect it. I don't care how many followers I have, I'm just grateful that some people find my blog worth reading.

However, you must be subscribed to this blog in order to participate because this giveaway is after all, my thanks to you. Just enter a comment saying anything. You can tell me what your favorite shadow is from this palette or your favorite mascara ever. Anything. Just include your name and email so I can contact you if you win. Besides, since I have so few followers, this boosts your chances of winning! Pretty cool, eh?

**This contest is open to ALL**

The deadline for this giveaway is Friday December 31, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. EST. GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure: This giveaway is hosted by me. I purchased this product myself. 

My Favorite Fall / Winter Mascara!

My favorite mascara to whip out during fall and winter is Benefit's Bad Gal Plum. Plum mascaras are like gold eye shadows, they compliment all eye colors beautifully. I know Urban Decay has some really pretty colored mascaras and one of them is similar to this. However, I couldn't find it on Sephora so maybe it's discontinued? Anyway, if I remember correctly, their version was more reddened than this one.

Sold separately, these retail for $19 USD but every year they release a (full size) combo pack of the original (black) Bad Gal mascara and the plum for $29 USD. Good deal, no? 

My only problem with the Bad Gal mascaras is the MONSTER brush! I don't get the "beautiful and bodacious" lashes they claim to offer and frankly, I find the big brush hard to work with and maneuver. That aside, it doesn't really matter with the plum version since I use it on my lower lashes and I coat the tips of my upper lashes. This works well with black and brown mascaras. I suppose you could wear this alone and it'd look really neat, but I just use it to add effect with black mascara.

Have you tried this one yet or the ones from Urban Decay? Do you know of any other brands that offer colored mascaras that are worth the mention? 

By the way, HAPPY FRIDAY! Any weekend plans? I'm doing chores, chores, and MORE CHORES today! I have to get my home ready for the tree and sparkling for Christmas. Oh, happy day! (<--- a bit of sarcasm for ya)

World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day. The fight against AIDS is a cause that I advocate and feel extremely passionate about. I wanted to take the time and share some facts and statistics with you about HIV / AIDS.

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV is what causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). The virus cannot replicate on its own. Instead, it invades the CD4 cells of the immune system. Your immune system works to fend off viruses and infections. HIV replicates itself inside of the CD4 cells and once it completes the task, those cells die -- leaving the immune system defenseless. When the number of CD4 cells drops to a certain level, a person then has AIDS.

Although researchers have made great strides in recent years with drugs like antiretroviral medications (which suppresses the virus), there is still no cure. There is no vaccine. There is still a lot that we don't know about the disease. Your best defense against HIV is to educate yourself with knowledge and means of prevention.

In 2009, 2.6 million people have been diagnosed with HIV and there are roughly 33.3 million people who have the virus. Among those 33.3 million, many already have full blown AIDS. Since AIDS was identified in 1981, more than 25 million people have died.

Global HIV / AIDS statistics from the end of 2009:

http://www.avert.org/worldstats.htm

How the beauty community can help:

The MAC AIDS Fund had raised over $190 million for the cause. The Viva Glam campaign is the backbone of their fund. Every cent of profit from the lipsticks and lipglasses ($14 USD) are donated to those who are affected by HIV / AIDS. Here's a breakdown of what ONE lipstick provides:

• 23 female condoms or 233 male condoms
• 18 personalized birthday cakes to be hand delivered to a person living with HIV / AIDS on their birthday
• 14 blood glucose monitoring strips
• 8 individually tailored, nutritious home-cooked meals
• 2 emergency boxes filled with non-perishable food
• 2 hours of childcare for a woman's children during her doctor appointments
• 1 personal nutrition counselling session with a registered dietitian
• 1 week's supply of groceries for 2 clients
• 1 Maxi-Pharmadose medication organizer
• 1 therapeutic recreation session
• 1 rapid oral HIV test
• 1 pair of school shoes for a child orphaned by AIDS
• 1 party pack for a child's Christmas, Easter, or Birthday
• 1 month of public transportation for a woman to travel to and from doctor's appointments 
• 1 school stationary starter pack for a child orphaned by AIDS
• 1 vegetable seed starter pack for a community garden

So, when you purchase a Viva Glam lipstick or lipglass, perhaps a Sir Teddy or Viva Glam bag, remember the the cause behind it and remember how your purchase helps to further those affected by the disease.

Sites of Interest:

AIDS.gov
Avert.org

MAC AIDS Fund

worldaidsday.org

worldaidscampaign.org/

Sources: MAC AIDS Fund, Avert, Temptalia, AIDS.gov

Revlon Soft Nude 070

Rarely do I find a drugstore brand that I like. I know, that sounds kind of snobby, but it's true. I find that I'm often more disappointed than impressed. However, I do come across some gems from time to time. I heard a lot of buzz surrounding Revlon's lipsticks. Specifically, Soft Nude 070. So, I bought it! By the way, I originally talked about this color in my favorites post, but I wanted to save the details for this one.

I purchased mine for about $8 USD. I heard a lot of mixed reviews about the packaging. Some say it's cute, some say it's just a rip off of NARS and Dior. Frankly, I don't really care. When it comes to packaging, I expect the product to be durable. The cute factor is just an added bonus. What I did find interesting though, is the price tag. $8? Really? Drugstore cosmetics aren't as cheap as they used to be. So for my $8, I expect to get a bang for my buck. 

The color is a warm-peachy nude. If I had to compare, I'd say the finish is similar to MAC Lustres or Cremesheens. The finish is glossy but it has a nice color payoff that is quite opaque and buildable. The downside? It's not long wearing. I felt the need to frequently reapply. This lipstick clearly cannot last through a meal. However, most of my lipsticks can't so I'm used to this. 

The other problem, well, not really a problem but... I can't wear this on its own. I have to apply MAC Lip Erase before using this. As I've said before on this blog, I have very red, pigmented lips. On its own, this color doesn't look so hot. The lip erase is just an extra step but it's worth it for me. 

The thing I like a lot about this lipstick is how versatile it is. I'm a cool, NW20 and this, at first glance, would look better on someone with warm or perhaps even darker skin. This nude actually suits me very well. Truthfully, I didn't think I'd like this when I first opened it, but I was pleasantly surprised. Thumbs up!!

The only thing I dislike about buying drugstore lipsticks is that there's no testers. Have you ever bought a lipstick based off of the color on the sticker at the bottom? Then you go home, open it up, and say "What the hell?". It's happened to the best of us. On the top of these lipsticks, there's a hunk of plastic with the coordinating color. I must say, it was pretty true to color. I've seen their line of mattes, and you can see through the top of the lipstick which is pretty ingenious. 

Would I buy this again?

Sure! It's a great nude and though the prices have gone up, it's still pretty affordable. I'd like to try other colors from the line as well. The longevity of the lipstick is really the most I can complain about but again, most of my lipsticks wear off after an hour or two. **I forgot to add that it is kind of drying so be sure to exfoliate before applying!

Have you tried Revlon's lipsticks? What do you think? I'm going to try the mattes next....

Lusting for...

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving! I had a great holiday. It was nice to sit back with the family and stuff my face, haha. I'm feeling quite tired today so I'm glad I did all of my housework yesterday! Anyway, I compiled a list of things I'm lusting for right now. More likely than not, I probably won't get any of these things any time soon. Still, I can dream, right?! Don't forget to tell me what's on your list too!

Viktor & Rolf: Flowerbomb

I've never had the pleasure of smelling this but I heard only good things about it.

NARS Etrusque

So, remember how I said I probably won't get any of these things? Well, maybe I'd invest in this eyeshadow. It's my dream gold.

NARS Bougainville


In a nutshell, it's a pretty berry gloss. I'm not a huge gloss lover but this is an exception. I've heard bad things about NARS glosses. The smell, in particular. I have a NARS gloss and yes, it does have that plastic smell but it doesn't bother me!

Guerlain Rouge G: Gardenia


Hello, Rouge G! I've wanted one of these lipsticks for the longest time. I just can't justify the price. They're about $46 USD. That's a lot of cash to drop on just a lipstick. The only makeup item that I invest extra money into is my foundation. Maybe someday I'll take the plunge and treat myself to it.

YSL Rouge Volupte #2, Sensual Silk


This one boasts a $34 USD price tag, but I'd be less hesitant to buy this than the Rouge G. Isn't she pretty? Yes, I said "she".

Clarisonic Mia


Last, but never least, the Clarisonic Mia. I need one of these -- with the sensitive brush heads, of course! I have dry skin. Very, very dry skin with blemishes. These are suppose to clean the skin really well and rid dead skin cells. Sounds like a miracle worker! Does anyone own one of these? What do you think of it?

Marcel Wanders collection is UP!

Good morning! I just wanted to give you a friendly reminder that the MAC Marcel Wanders collection is now for sale on the US website. Click here to shop! Free shipping code: "WANDERS".

Are you buying anything? I *might* get that 'Martha' lipstick, but I don't know. I really wanted the 187 brush until I saw the ridiculous price. In the end, for me, it's all about the performance of my brushes versus the aesthetics. It would've been nice to have, but I'm definitely passing.

Top 5 MAC Blushes for Fall / Winter

Hello, lovelies! I'm in a surprisingly good mood considering it's Monday. Maybe it's because the weather is gorgeous and it's about 64 degrees, oh yes!

I wanted to share with you my top five favorite MAC blushes for fall / winter. Not all of these are your basic blushes. There's an MSF and two beauty powders as well. For this time of year, I tend to fancy colors that add warmth to my face because I'm very pale. However, when I'm doing a smoky eye look, I love cool colors that almost lean purple. Either way, I think all of these colors set the tone for the season.

1. Summer Rose Beauty Powder

2. Petticoat MSF

3. Peachykeen Sheertone Shimmer

4. Buddy Up (Too Fabulous)

5. Pinch Me Sheertone

What's your favorite blushes for fall / winter? Do tell! I'm sorry to say, but I have a blush fetish!!

MAC Warm Thrillseekers Pigment Swatches

As promised, though a little late, I took pictures of the Warm Thrillseekers pigments. Supposedly, these are geared toward warmer skin tones but I think these can work for a whole array of people. Each set is $32.50 USD.

L-R: Gold Mode, Gilded Green, Most Darling, Gift O' Glamour, Reflects Bronze

L-R: Most Darling, Gilded Green, Gift O' Glamour, Gold Mode, Reflects Bronze
All pigments were swatched when wet.

Descriptions:

Most Darling - medium brown shimmer

Gilded Green - mint ice cream

Gift O' Glamour - pale metallic pink (though it's more of a champagne pink)

Gold Mode - peachy gold shimmer

Reflects Bronze - peachy orange glitter sparkle

By the way, I'm sorry my arm has goosebumps. It's FREEZING in here! I hope it doesn't distract you...

Favorites... and not so favorites!

Here's my most up to date favorites and not so favorites for the fall season!

Favorites

1. Rain, you say? No problem! I've been loving my Barbie rain boots! I bought them from Target online for about $25 USD. I bought them this past March. Sadly, they aren't available anymore...

2. I've also been loving warm blushes. I don't know if there's some rule that states cools go with cools and warm goes with warm. Hopefully, I won't be damned for my love of rule breaking and warm blushes. I think that colors like Pinch Me (MAC) and Peachykeen (MAC) add necessary warmth to my skin -- especially during these winter months.

Pinch Me (MAC) (Permanent)

3. Revlon Soft Nude 070 was something I bought as an impulse buy. I did NOT like this at first, but I'll talk about that in another post because I'd like to review it. Plus, I may have found the best lip combo ever for this lipstick.

4. My favorite perfume of all time is Dior's Hypnotic Poison. Sadly, I ran out of this a while ago so I have to buy a new one, but I always associate this perfume with the fall & winter. 

Picture found via Google image search

5. My absolute biggest favorite of all is my UD Naked palette. I believe this product lives up to the massive hype surrounding it. I love neutrals. I love smoky eyes. I love shimmer. I love the Naked palette, forever and always. I received this as a birthday gift and let me tell you, I've used it almost every single day since. My MAC shadows barely see daylight since this bad boy came into my life.

Favorites that aren't beauty related...

• Warm apple cider and cinnamon sticks -- I love this on a cold night!
• Hoodies and yoga pants
• My iPod. This will forever be my most prized inanimate possession. My life would never be right without it!
• Morning coffee. My life would never be right without this either...
• House! I LOVE to watch House!!!
• Supernatural -- just can't get enough of those Winchester brothers!
• Macaroons. I only buy them from Wegmans (a grocery store located in New Jersey and the tri-state area). They make the best macaroons ever. I have a recipe to make them and it's a simple recipe too, but I'm afraid they won't be as amazing!

Not so Favorites.... if that makes sense!

I go through a lot of phases with my makeup and other stuff and here's the routines I'm currently over:

• Pink lips. It's not that I hate them... I love them but outgrew them. It was a big phase I went through over the summer. Don't worry VG Gaga, I'll always have love for you!
• Liquid eyeliner. I've been into deep smoky eyes with smudged eyeliner. Preferably, MAC's pearl glide liners.
• Lip gloss. I've been loving nude lips sans gloss.
• Bright pink blushes. As stated before, I've been into warmer colors.

So, what's your current in and out's?

By the way!! I got that Warm Thrillseekers set of pigments in the mail yesterday. I'm going to swatch them later so you can see what they look like up against a cool skin tone. Frankly, I think almost anybody can rock these.

When I'm Sad I...

BUY PIGMENTS!

Okay, well I'm not sad, just very bored! My daughter fell asleep early, all of my housework is finished, my boyfriend is busy making furniture. There's just nothing to do! Okay, okay, in all fairness my days are always hectic. Even as a stay at home mom. I rarely get to sit, there's always something to be done or someone who needs me. That's not a complaint, I love it! It's just that when I finally get that 'me' time, I don't know what to do with myself! 

So, I started thinking about how MAC released the Tartan Tale Chapter 2 pigment sets this past week and I really wanted the 'Smoky Thrillseekers' set. Or so I thought, anyway. I started to look at swatches on Temptalia of all three sets to make sure that's what I really wanted. Then I began to have second thoughts when I saw 'Dark Soul' and ' Blue Brown'. When I look at Dark Soul, I immediately picture more of the pigment on my face versus my eye due to fall out. When I look at Blue Brown, I can't help but to think that it'll look like I got punched in the eye. In this set, Jigs and Jive is the only color that is LE and new. The rest are permanent. I only truly appreciate two of the five colors (not big on the Reflects Blackened Red either). Skip!

Smoky Thrillseekers Pigments / Glitter Set (image from Temptalia)

And skipping over the 'Cool Thrillseekers' set as well...

But! But! But! I adore the 'Warm Thrillseekers' set. This is what I ordered tonight and I'm sure I won't be regretting it either. These colors look like versatile and very wearable, yet the Gilded Green color adds some fun to the mix. The Reflects Bronze is really pretty and very holiday-esque, if you ask me.

Warm Thrillseekers Pigments / Glitter Set (image from Temptalia)

So this is how my Saturday night is going so far. Not bad, but not glamorous either! I hope your weekend is more exciting than mine! Have you gotten anything from A Tartan Tale yet? Do you plan on getting anything?

**Click here to see the swatches from this set!

The Junk Drawer: Part II

Hello, hello! I'm sorry that it's been almost a week since my last post. Now that the holidays are coming, everything has been crazy busy but I have a lot of new things to talk about so stay tuned!

Okay, so this will be part II of my 'Junk Drawer' series. I'm actually loving this because I'm going through things that I never used but I'm starting to get happily reacquainted with. Remember that Stila Major Lash mascara I talked about last time? Still not my favorite, but it's good for when I'm opting for that 'natural' look. So yes, I'm liking it more than I did before but I still don't recommend it for sky high, blow your mind lashes.

Today, I've been looking at my paint pots from MAC. Generally speaking, I LOVE PAINT POTS. They are hands down, my favorite bases. However, I have two that I just don't use. Keep in mind, this series isn't just about products that I dislike; it's also about things I genuinely like yet can't seem to make it work for *me*.

Groundwork, Coral Crepe

The two paint pots that I'm talking about are Coral Crepe (LE) and Groundwork (Permanent) from the Pret A Papier collection. Overall, I didn't like that collection because as I remember, all of the colors were more complimentary to warm-toned gals.

Frankly, I have no idea why I bought Groundwork. It's not eye-catching or special. I think it was just an impulse buy. Coral Crepe is gorgeous. I think that Paradisco is the perfect mate for this color. Absolutely beautiful, I just never used it like I thought I would. However, I now feel more determined than ever to make this work. I think you could make a nice smoky eye with this using colors like Smog or Dark Horse from the UD Naked palette.

I'll let you know how it turns out in my next 'Junk Drawer' installment.

NARS Little Darling Lipstick

I'm excited about this one because it's my first NARS lipstick ever. I have a few things from this brand. It's something that I occasionally treat myself to because it is pretty expensive. However, I was so captivated by their holiday collection this year. I literally want everything!

Decribed by NARS as a "nude-beige", $24 USD

First Impressions

I always like the sleek black packaging, I just don't like how it's quick to get dirty because of the rubbery texture. Aside from that, I noticed that the lipstick is darker than what was pictured in the promo. Keep in mind, I ordered this from Sephora, before the F&F sale ended. I tried to buy it at my NARS counter, but they didn't have it yet (at the time). There aren't too many in-depth reviews of this lipstick right now because it's new so I just had to hope it was as awesome as I thought. Just by looking at it, I was a little scared because it looked a bit too brown for my taste. I gave it a whiff and didn't notice any scent. However, I do have a little cold so I asked my boyfriend to confirm my opinion and he didn't pick up on any scent either (he's such a good sport! haha). 

My Thoughts

This lipstick has decent color payoff although it's sheer, yet pigmented, with a glossy finish (so don't get turned off if you think it looks dark). In all honesty, had this color been more opaque and matte, I wouldn't have fancied it. I think this color is extremely versatile for a wide array of people. Oh, and as for scent... though I didn't pick up on one before I applied it, I noticed one after. It was very light, subtle, and pleasant but it didn't linger. I didn't find this formula to be drying, but it gave me a decent amount of wear. Don't expect it to last too long before reapplying because it does have that glossy finish. I happen to love nudes, but I have to make them work for me. Generally, I dab them in lightly so it doesn't wash me out but I have to make sure I apply enough because my lips are quite red by nature. With this, I don't have to do anything. It just works as it is. I think this is because it's a little darker than most of the nudes I own so it's not so quick to wash me out. 

Bottom Line & Recommendations


I couldn't have picked a better color for myself. I can't think off hand of any dupes to compare it to. Although the color may seem typical, I don't think it is. This color, in my opinion, would be very flattering on warmer skin tones, though it has the potential to work for a lot of people across the board. If you like nudes, you'll probably like this. Especially if you can't wear colors like Myth too well. Don't feel bad, only a handful of people can wear that color and wear it well. I'm not one of them. Also, I think think is a nice shade for fall / winter. It leans on the sheer side, yet has depth. As far as I know, this color is permanent.

A Few Tips About Foundation

Finding your perfect foundation can be a really tedious process. It involves finding your perfect shade, picking which formulation suits you best, while accommodating your skin's needs. Foundation, in my opinion, creates the canvas for your makeup. Therefore, this is a key item in your makeup collection that you should invest in. Though not everyone wears foundation or needs it, for that matter, I know there's people out there who do. For me, it makes every bit of difference in how my makeup looks and feels. This is going to be long. I tried to make it short and sweet, but it didn't work out. However, I tried to be as informative as possible!

Uggs & Jimmy Choo

Question: What do you get when you cross a pair of Jimmy Choo's with a pair of Uggs?

Answer:  A small line of boots ranging from $495 to $795 USD. (<---No, that wasn't a joke.)

I saw these online last night. I was thinking of replacing my current pair of Uggs (not with those, the classic ones, haha). They're over two years old and they've taken a good beating. 

Based upon my own observations, people either love or hate Uggs. There's really no grey area. Personally, I love my Uggs. They're crazy comfortable and go with just about everything. I'm not a big shoe person. Don't get me wrong, I like shoes. I just hate the idea of spending a lot of money on them when they just get ruined anyway. I mean, think about it. You buy a new pair of Chloe heels so you can walk around New York City and unintentionally plant your foot in someone else's gum? I'd rather have the handbag, thanks. Hey now, If I had that kind of money, it wouldn't peeve me so much. There's some honesty for ya.

The one pair I actually liked but I still pass.

Anyway, there's only one pair from the line that I actually like. The rest come packed with too much bling. And yes, the hefty price tag is a turn off. I think I'll pass on these. What do you think? Would you buy these? Check out the collection here.

*All the pictures were found via Google image search while the first image was integrated together by me.

The Junk Drawer: Stila Major Lash Mascara

So, 'The Junk Drawer' is going to be a new series on this blog, documenting the things that collect dust. I'll talk about products that I bought but didn't like, products that received a lot of hype but didn't work miracles for me. Also, I'll mention products that I genuinely like but never seem to use. I have a hard time throwing things away (unless they're gross). I like to tell myself that maybe someday I'll find some use for it. Maybe this'll help me get rid of those things and clear some much needed space in my linen closet!

Okay, so this product is the epitome of what this series is all about (for me). I didn't buy this, but I won it in a raffle at my sister in law's baby shower. Stila Major Lash mascara was part of a set from the Glam in a Can (Can Couture). This was the only thing I didn't like from the set. It doesn't do anything for my lashes. I have short, thin lashes that requires something that packs a bigger punch. I'm not sure if it's the formula or the brush or maybe both. It doesn't lengthen or thicken. Loreal Telescopic knocks this one out of the park!

As far as I know, Stila discontinued this mascara (probably why they threw it in the can). It's now called MAJOR Major Lash mascara which is suppose to be better. I hope it is.

My Halloween and blog stuff!

Hello, beautiful people! How was your Halloween? Did you dress up or do anything? I had every intention of dressing up, but I just didn't have time. Yesterday was a very busy day for me. I had house work, house work, house work up until 3 pm, then had to get my daughter fed, bathed, and into her costume so we could goto my mother in law's for a get together. I will say that for the sake of festivities, I put on some extra eye makeup. I thought I looked like a hooker. Wasn't happy about that. Anyway, we had some family over and Kristen's little cousin, Dino, who is five months old. We took them for a little trick or treating. It was a lot of fun! Kristen ended up being a butterfly. A cute butterfly, I might add!

Kristen from this morning, haha

Anyway, I decided to start a new series on this blog. I don't want to tell you what it is yet, but I'm hoping that you'll like it! First post will be up later on today. Enjoy your Monday! Or at least try to... hahah.