#SHAPEMATTERS

Smashbox Cosmetics and Chictopia are holding a #SHAPEMATTERS dramatic makeup contest, in which the winner receives a $500 in Smashbox goodies. [Who wouldn't want that?]

Of course, the makeup I wore in yesterday's photo shoot was relatively tame, compared to what I usually do... I feel a nude lip and smokey eyes are the perfect look for right now, and it does make a dramatic difference to someone who's used to something more.. natural.. 

Photo by A.D. Wheeler Photography 

Please take a few seconds to vote for this look [and add me!] on Chictopia: 

Many thanks to Andy for being super cool and putting me in front of his lens! :) And the contest is going on until the end of this month [September 30, 2014], so please take a little time to vote me up on Chictopia.. See you there! 

What's In My Makeup Bag: September 2014

What's in my bag: 

Smashbox Photo Finish foundation primer 

CoverGirl Outlast 3-in-1 foundation [805 ivory] 

Sephora MicroSmooth powder [light 15] 

Rimmel London Natural Bronzer [027 Sun Dance] 

Smashbox High Definition concealer [fair] 

Sephora Black Magic makeup palette 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Rimmel London Lasting Finish by Kate lipstick [113] 

e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set 

Courtesy of Neutrogena: [thank you!] 

Neutrogena Visibly Even Daily Moisturizer 

Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soother [Glimmer 15] 

Deep Purple + Black Smoky Eyes

What I'm wearing: 

Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer [003] 

CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 foundation [ivory] 

Smashbox High Definition Concealer [fair] 

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear loose powder [translucent light] 

Rimmel London Natural Bronzer [027 Sun Dance] 

Physicians Formula multi-colored blush [Blushing Peach] 

Sephora eyeshadow [Peach Beige N*13] 

Revlon Luxurious Color eyeshadow [045 Black Galaxy] 

Urban Decay eyeshadow [Rockstar] 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soother gloss [Glimmer 15] 

Rimmel London Lasting Finish by Kate lipstick [113] 

e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set spray [not pictured] 

I know, it's a lot. This is not a low-maintenance look. 

1D "Up All Night" Makeup Collection

A few weeks ago, One Direction member, Niall Horan, tweeted about a makeup line in the works... and thanks to Markwins and Brandbacker, I got early access! 

Don't get me wrong here- I am not a fan of the boy band by any means, however, I am very much a fan of fun and funky makeup... 

'“The Looks Collection” comprises of three keepsake tins inspired by One Direction’s globe-conquering albums, “Up All Night, “Take Me Home” and the latest chart topper, ‘Midnight Memories.” Each tin comes complete with everything you need to show off your personality. Are you a rock n’ roll girl, a fun party girl or the girl next door? We have just the right collection for you and illustrations to help show you just how to get your perfect look. All your beauty essentials are housed in a limited edition collectible keepsake tin with removable sleeve, complete with One Direction doodle stencils to decorate your keepsake tin and make it uniquely your own!'

I scored the "Up All Night" collection, which is a fun mix of blue/aqua and hot pink. Fracking amazing color combo if I do say so myself, especially with pink hair!

The makeup:
eye palette - More Than This, Save You Tonight, Up All Night, Another World, & Gotta Be You
eyeliner - Stand Up
mascara - Little Black Dress
lipstick - I Should Have Kissed You
lip gloss - Taken
nail polish - Na Na Na

Even better, the lip gloss glows under UV light! So cool! 

I am so in love with this fun, bold, and colorful makeup set, which will be offered in stores [and online] at very affordable prices [for a limited time]. 

US release dates: 

Macy's - August 11th 

Stage Stores – August 25th 

Dillards – August 25th 

Beauty Brands – August 25th 

Lord and Taylor - August 25th 

International release dates not available at this time. 

'This prestige makeup line is fun, bold and a tad mischievous, featuring vivid shades, premium formulas and chic, collectible packaging and components.' 

#makeupby1D #thelookscollection #markwins 

What's In My Makeup Bag: August 2014

In my makeup bag:
Smashbox Photo Finish foundation primer
CoverGirl Outlast 3-in-1 foundation 805 ivory
Smashbox High Definition concealer fair
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear loose powder translucent light
Rimmel London Natural Bronzer 027 Sun Dance
Rimmel London Glam Eyes HD eyeshadow palette 027 Brick Lane
Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara
Rimmel London Lasting Finish by Kate lipstick 113

Happy August!

My everyday makeup for this month is a 'barely there' neutral look- a nice change from the dark lips and smoky eyes of the earlier summer months. I'm playing around with pastel hair colors right now, and less complicated makeup compliments the look nicely.

I really love the Rimmel Glam Eyes HD eyeshadow palette. These shadows stay put very well [I suffer from oily lids], and it's so cheap! I must admit I'd probably never have tried it if I didn't get it for free a while back.. Rimmel made me a believer!

What makeup are you wearing right now? 

What's In My Makeup Bag: July 2014

What's in my bag: 

Tarte Smooth Operator tinted moisturizer Agent 04 

Sephora MicroSmooth powder light 15 

Rimmel London Natural Bronzer 027 Sun Dance 

Kat Von D True Romance eyeshadow Fever Ray 

Rimmel London ScandalEyes waterproof eyeliner 001 Black 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Neutrogena Mineral Sheers blush Illuminator 05 

Rimmel London Lasting Finish By Kate lipstick 113 

I've always been a fan of shimmery wine and pink shadows with blue eyes, and pale lips. Paired with intense black lashes, it looks amazing! 

What's In My Makeup Bag: June 2014

What's in my bag: 

Tarte Smooth Operator tinted moisturizer Agent 04 

Sephora MicroSmooth powder light 15 

Rimmel London Natural Bronzer 027 Sun Dance 

Sephora eyeshadow Peach Beige N*13 

Urban Decay eyeshadow Rockstar 

Rimmel London ScandalEyes waterproof eyeliner 001 Black 

Benefit They're Real! mascara 

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick 663 Va Va Violet 

Outfit: Your Ribs Are Showing 

I'm really loving dark purple eyes and lips right now, especially with my light blonde hair- it really balances out my look, with the dark clothes and light complexion.

I must admit I was afraid of dark lipstick in the past. But it's one of those things you just have to try for a while, and it grows on you. I am now a lover of bold lips and won't go anywhere without my lipstick!

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Shampoo + Mineral Balsam Conditioner

Thanks to Adovia, I got to try a cool Dead Sea mineral shampoo and conditioner! 

[Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. ]

What I got: 

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Shampoo 

Adovia Mineral Balsam Conditioner 

My opinion: 

I admit I was skeptical during the first use- the shampoo doesn't lather as well as, well, every other shampoo I've used in my entire life, and the conditioner isn't as thick and rich as most others. Nor do they smell as nice as my usual products. I thought I may have received a couple of duds. 

But I was wrong. 

When I got out of the shower and started towel drying my hair, I could feel the effects of the Dead Sea minerals, Vitamin E, and chamomile. My hair was super soft. [In fact, it was so soft, several rubber bands had slipped out of my hair!] Dry, it feels light [almost weightless] and bouncy. [Great for headbanging.] 

It cleans so well, without stripping my hair, and it's hard to believe that products of this consistency can work so wonderfully! But hey, that's the power of Dead Sea minerals. 

[I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.]

Review: Adovia Purifying Mud Mask [With Pure Dead Sea Mud, Aloe Vera + Vitamin C]

Many thanks to Adovia, I got to try an awesome Dead Sea mud mask! 

[Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. ]

For those who aren't familiar with Dead Sea products, more than 35 minerals can be found in the Dead Sea's water. These mineral salts are believed by many to be an incredible treatment for skin problems like psoriasis, to more complicated conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Many people travel from afar to soak up some sun, bathe in the water, and cover themselves in mud. 

And so, when I got the chance to try Adovia Purifying Mud Mask, I was excited! 

It's a thick black mud [so thick it's harder to squeeze out of the tube than most other muds!] that feels really good when applied to the face and left to dry. I found it to be a rather calming treatment- apply, relax and sip some tea -and it works wonders for my skin. I love it! 

It cleans and shrinks my pores, and removes excess oil without drying out my face [a common problem I have]. It says "for all skin types" on the packaging, and I believe it! This is a miracle product, no joke, and I would most definitely recommend it to everyone.

The power of Dead Sea minerals is incredible!

[I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.]

Review: InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum, Rosehip Seed Oil + Argan Oil

Thanks to InstaNatural, I was given this trio for healthy hair and skin to test and review. 

[Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.]

What came in the box: 

Vitamin C Serum 

100% Pure Rosehip Seed Oil 

100% Pure Argan Oil 

My experience: 

I've been using the Vitamin C serum [which is clear and unscented- exactly as it should be] morning and night on my face. It definitely works the magic that only these serums can do, and my skin is clear, moisturized, and radiant. I love what this does for my skin, and I don't wear half the makeup I used to. It also helps protect your skin from UV damage during the day [however not to replace sunscreen products]. 

The rosehip seed oil is amazing for sunburns. I've been applying it to my neck and shoulders after several hours of harsh sunlight [ahh, the first sunburn of the season..], and it speed-heals my skin- pretty much overnight! It also helps fade scars [quickly]. It's very moisturizing [duh], and great to mix with lotions. Awesome stuff to have. 

Argan oil is a must-have for healthy hair [and skin]. I like to mix a little with my leave-in treatment after showering, and with regular use, repairs dry, damaged hair. My hair is strong, shiny, and vibrant, and that's why! I have very curly hair [hence why I braid it], and it works wonders for keeping ridiculous curls under control. 

All three of these products are must-haves for your beauty arsenal. They are incredibly useful, and what I'd call 'miracle products'. They are healthy, natural alternatives to treat and prevent 'ailments' that are so often treated with expensive procedures.

[I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.]

What's In My Makeup Bag: May 2014

What's in my makeup bag: 

Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer 

Studio Gear CC Cream in Linen [light] 

Smashbox Halo To Go loose powder in light 

Rimmel Natural Bronzer 027 Sun Dance 

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion 

Rimmel Glam Eyes eyeshadow palette 027 Brick Lane 

Rimmel ScandalEyes waterproof kohl eyeliner 001 Black 

Benefit Watt's Up! highlighter 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Rimmel Moisture Renew lipstick 642 Nude Delight 

I've been drawn to shimmery nude palettes lately, since they're so quick and easy to apply- no need for precision -and with a light dusting of bronzer, really make your skin glow. Simple and effective. 

I go out walking/hiking a lot, and this is the time of year I switch to tinted moisturizers and CC creams with SPF. Nothing looks worse than heavy foundation on a hot, sunny day.. especially if it's the wrong color, which happens to all of us as we tan. Use a lighter formula, like a CC cream with SPF [20 or higher]. 

Sun protection is important! I started using Vitamin C serums recently, which provide additional protection [among a ton of other benefits]. [Note: Vitamin C serums are not a replacement for sunscreen.] Try to use makeup, and especially lip products, with SPF. If you dye your hair, you will want to use products to protect against fading. I make sure to spray my scalp [since my hair is short and braided] with sunblock before going out in harsh sunlight. Burnt scalp sucks! I learned that the hard way. 

Sunlight is good, but I strongly advise against tanning. It fades tattoos and makes you age quicker. 

Love your skin. <3

Review: Valentia Even Glow Serum [Vitamin C 20%]

Many thanks to Valentia Skin Care, I was given their Even Glow Serum to test and review. 

Valentia Even Glow Serum [Vitamin C 20%]
Antioxidant treatment to brighten, protect and even skin tone,
reducing the appearance of aging. 

[Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. ] 

What the box says: 

Our evolved Even Glow Serum is strategically formulated with powerful natural ingredients to support and enhance Vitamin C efficacy. 

Rosehip Seed Oil & Sea Buckthorn Oil: 

These super oils work simultaneously to increase skin hydration and lock in moisture. Each oil's superior antioxidant content further promotes healing of damaged skin to produce a more even glow and more beautiful youthful looking skin. 

Resistem: 

Natural Plant Stem Cell protects skin from stress related aging. Encourages a natural glow while promoting skin detoxification. 

Hyaluronic Acid (Botanical): 

Helps to repair the skin's ability to retain moisture and increase elasticity and firmness. 

My experience: 

I've been using the Even Glow Serum morning and night for the past week, and I love, love, LOVE what it's doing for my skin! Not only is it fading scars, freckles, etc., it also proves true to it's claim- it gives my skin a nice, natural, healthy looking glow. Every morning I wake up with radiant skin, and each day it looks better than the last. 

This truly is a miracle product, and I recommend it to everyone! 

[I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.]

Review: Nature's Best Vitamin C Serum - Mystelic Beauty

Thanks to Mystelic Beauty, I was given Nature's Best Vitamin C Serum to test and review. 

[Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. ]

What it does: 

On the bottle: This serum is a concentrated delivery system for the highest form of active, bio-available Vitamin C for beautiful skin. Suspended in a concentrated base of pure vegan hyaluronic acid to plump skin cells and protect and restore. 

According to eHow:
Vitamin C is used in skin care as a strong antioxidant, especially in regard to protecting the skin from sun damage. It strengthens the skin barrier and thickens the dermis. It can expedite the healing of wounds and reduce inflammation. In high concentrations, it can reduce the appearance of skin discoloration. Most important, it promotes collagen production, which subsequently plumps the skin and lends it radiance and smoothness. Dermatologists often use vitamin-C products to enhance the effects of cosmetic treatments, such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels.

My experience: 

I've been using this serum for about a week now, both morning and night, and I am amazed! Not only did I notice a difference after my first night, my skin is now clear and radiant, and discolorations (freckles, acne scars, etc) are fading. Even my blackheads disappeared! 

I've suffered from acne breakouts for a good bit of my life now, and it's discouraging.. but thanks to Mystelic Beauty, I finally found my cure- Vitamin C serum! 

I feel beautiful, more confident, and no longer afraid to leave the house without makeup. This is a big deal for me. I've NEVER felt this way about my skin.

Nature's Best Vitamin C Serum


[I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.]

Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream SPF 20 + 10% Off Discount Code!

I recently received a 1.1 oz. tube of Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream in Linen (light) in the mail, in exchange for a review/feature. [If you're here for the discount code, keep reading.] 

It arrived at the perfect time- my skin is still dried out from the winter, and now I have to start using more products with SPF again, to avoid UV damage from the sun. 

What it does:

Protects: SPF 20 protects the skin, while Hydra-Extend technology provides moisture for up to 72 hours. 
Perfects: Enjoy natural looking coverage while micro-encapsulated pigments perfects and fade dark spots and acne scarring. 
Corrects: Anti-aging and collagen building ingredients help minimize fine lines and wrinkles. 
Hydrates: Hydra-Extend technology provides up to 72 hours of continuous hydration. 
Conceals: Micro encapsulated pigments deliver a fresh dose of color that adapts to your own skin tone, creating the most natural looking coverage. 
Smoothes: Skin nourishing ingredients help to correct and maintain youthful complexion. 

My experience:
I used the Studio Gear CC Cream in yesterday's outfit post (and I'm wearing it today as well). I had a mild sunburn from the day before, and my face was a little tender to touch. But this CC Cream blended nicely, didn't irritate my sensitive skin at all, and appears to have replaced some of the moisture that was lost to the sun. Today, the redness is gone, and has been replaced with a light tan overnight. I can definitely tell this mild, creamy formula is doing a lot of good for my skin, as opposed to causing breakouts, which happen all too often to me.

As for photos, I love the way this product looks on camera! It makes my skin look very smooth and soft, and reflects the right amount of light to hide any blemishes. (This applies to both sunny and overcast days, as well as artificial lighting.) I don't suggest wearing it alone though- brush a little powder on top to set it, and a light dusting of bronzer to really make your skin glow. Perfection!

Get 10% off your order:
1) Go to the product page.
2) Add CC Cream to your shopping bag.
3) At checkout, use this discount code: bloggercc

What's In My Makeup Bag: April 2014

Time flies by so quickly! We're already in the second week of April, and I still haven't shared what's in my everyday makeup bag this month! 

What's in my bag (in order of application): 

Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer 

CoverGirl Outlast 3-in-1 foundation 

Sephora MicroSmooth pressed powder 

Rimmel Glam Eyes eyeshadow palette 027 Brick Lane 

Rimmel ScandelEyes waterproof kohl eyeliner 001 Black 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Rimmel Natural Bronzer 

Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate lipstick 113 

Urban Decay De-Slick makeup setting spray (not shown) 

I was never a fan of Rimmel London in the past, but after being a part of their #staymatte campaign and scoring a bunch of makeup goodies, I've noticed a huge change in product quality- the eyeshadows and liners in particular are amazing, and last all day! The Stay Matte Primer has become my all-time favorite foundation primer, and the Natural Bronzer adds a light, healthy glow to my super-fair skin- not at all orange-y, nor looks like dirt. Amazing! 

My biggest makeup concerns are natural-looking coverage and durability. I'm a Sephora addict, and when I find a drugstore product that works better than their professional counterparts, I'm ecstatic. A lot of the new drugstore products are amazing! As a frugal shopper and avid coupon clipper, this opens a lot of doors for me- I can look great, for super-cheap! 

Of course, this doesn't mean I've stopped shopping at Sephora- I still have my much-needed indulgences. A girl needs pampering, after all.. But I spend a lot less money now. 

Nails: Maybelline Color Show 25 Mystic Green

I love holographic nail polish! Especially Maybelline Color Show 25 Mystic Green. 

The Color Show line is definitely my favorite of all nail polishes- this stuff will last almost an entire week without chipping (on its own, without a base and topcoat)! I'm rough on my nails (I play guitar and electric violin)- this stuff is AWESOME. And they have so many great colors to choose from! 

maybelline color show

<3 

sunny spring days! | Vikings | green tea with peppermint 

Rimmel Natural Bronzer | Chuck-Chucks Jewelry [50% Off Discount Code] 

Review: Rimmel London ScandalEyes Waterproof Eyeliner 001 Black

Thanks to Rimmel London and Influenster (contact me for an invite), I received a free box full of makeup a while back, and the ScandalEyes black waterproof eyeliner was one of those products. 

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical. I've tried many cheap and terrible eyeliners in my time, most of which ran down my face the very second my eyes started watering... 

But this stuff is different. 

For starters, it's only $4.49 at Ulta, which is a total steal if you ask me! 

The first time I tried it happened to be on a day when my eyes were sensitive and acting up due to allergies. It glided on so smoothly, hardly any pressure required, and I was surprised it didn't agitate my eyes. Even when they watered, this eyeliner didn't budge at all! 

My lids tend to get oily throughout the day, and it's difficult to keep my eye makeup in place, even with eye primers and makeup setting sprays. For the trial run, I did not use any products to make it last longer, for a more accurate test. And it stayed put all day long. I'm impressed- this never happens to me! 

I'm used to spending $15+ for an eyeliner of this caliber. No joke. 

While I don't see myself running out any time in the near future, I definitely intend to buy another when I do. Rimmel London ScandalEyes waterproof eyeliner in 001 black is impressive. I recommend it to everyone. 

Have you tried it yet? What do you think? 

Review: Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer

Last month I received a free box full of Rimmel London makeup for being a top Influenster (contact me for an invite) in their #staymatte campaign. 

The day I received that package was the day I discovered my new favorite foundation primer - Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer. 

I was so excited to see this in the box, and immediately had to try it out. 

The appearance and consistency is similar to that of Elmer's Glue, which is a little off-putting, but I can't argue with the results. It really makes shit stick. Holy crap! 

I tend to have issues with sweating my makeup off quickly, and it's so hard for me to find stuff that stays put, let alone at a decent price... This stuff is $7 at Walgreens! I totally recommend this product to musicians, actors, and anyone else who has to deal with hot stage lighting.. or sweltering heat in general, or just anyone looking for a great primer. 

The Stay Matte primer looks fantastic under CC creams, heavy full coverage foundations, or even just powder. It's super-versatile. 

The only problem I can see with it is the fact that it's thick, and could be considered a little weighty by some (although it does say "ultra lightweight formula" on the package). If you can't stand anything that's not super-light feeling on your skin, you may not be a fan. 

Other than that, FANTASTIC. It was love at first use. I have every intention of buying it when I run out, which, won't be for a while actually- a little goes a long way. 

Have you tried the Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer yet? What do you think of it? 

I Love e.l.f. Studio Brushes

I recently replaced my e.l.f. blush and contour brushes, due to my old ones going through not just daily use, but also hell-like heat, bitter cold, travel, regular cleaning, and who knows what else. 

I'm a huge fan of e.l.f. cosmetic brushes. They're so cheap ($3)! And they're awesome. 

Featured here: 

These new antibacterial, synthetic haired Taklon brushes are softer and more absorbent and can be used with wet or dry products. Be a professional makeup artist and create a flawless look with these e.l.f. studio brushes! 

*Vegan Friendly 

e.l.f. studio 84011 blush brush 

The tailored design allows for easy maneuvering and precise color application creates a beautifully defined and sculpted look. Can be used to apply blush or bronzer.  

e.l.f. studio 84006 contour brush 

The domed bristles pick up a lot of color and deposit it onto the eyelid for extra definition. Adds depth close to the lash line and in the corner of the eye. Use to sweep colors along the lash lines for concentrated color. 

Nails: Sinful Colors 853 Cloud 9

In a sort-of celebration of warmer weather, I donned flipflops and Sinful Colors 853 Cloud 9, and took a walk with Gary in the sunshine. (However, it's still a bit chilly for flipflops, and they're the only thing I can wear on me feet at the moment... I busted up my heel and Achilles tendon pretty good over the past week.) 

I love this color- it makes me think of fruity alcoholic drinks at the beach. And it sparkles beautifully in the sun!