What's In My Makeup Bag: Christmas 2013

Cold winter weather is so harsh on my skin, so it's hard to find makeup that not only looks good, but also moisturizes and protects. Here's what I'll be wearing Christmas 2013: 

Studio Gear CC Cream 

Studio Gear Holiday Smoky Eye Palette 

Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix 

Sephora MicroSmooth powder 

Benefit Bad Gal Lash mascara 

Benefit Watt's Up! highlighter 

Smashbox Photo Ready foundation primer 

Both of the Studio Gear products, which I love, have been gifted in exchange for a review, FYI.  

I don't have anything special planned for the holidays. Gary and I would prefer not to celebrate, really. So we're keeping it low-key. And I intend to create a less dramatic smoky eye (think black and gold shimmer) this year. Plus my usual skin products- perfection! 

Are you doing anything for the holidays? And what makeup will you be wearing? 

Sunday Sephora Haul!

Today I picked up a bunch of goodies at Sephora, and for a great price!

What I bought: 

Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix ($12) 

Sephora Daily Makeup Brush Cleaner ($7) 

Nails Inc. Special Effects glitter nail polish in 431 sloane square (sale $4, originally $9.50) 

Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish in 042 houses of parliament (sale $4, originally $16) 

Kat Von D Sinner eau de parfum rollerball (sale $5, originally $18) 

Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Concealer in light 18 - for Gary ($25) 

Benefit A Little Bit Bad Gal Lash mascara mini ($9) 

My early birthday gift: 

Benefit They're Real! mascara 

Benefit Watt's Up! highlighter 

Some of these products are things I already use, and others I'm trying for the first time. I can't wait to test and review the new ones! I'm most excited about the Mist & Fix (still looking for that perfect makeup setting spray for winter) and Benefit highlighter. 

I'm thrilled about this haul because it only cost me $65.97 before tax- I saved $30.53 (that's 32%!) and got 2 free minis. Go me! 

Have you bought any new beauty products lately? 

Review: Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara

Yesterday I received a free sample of Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant mascara at Sephora, and I absolutely love it!

I like the shape of the wand and the way it coats my lashes with a dramatic black that doesn't smudge, even on a hot summer day. My eyes look amazing with this product!

I personally have not come across a better mascara yet, and intend to buy the full size product in the near future.

Rating: 9.5/10

MAKE UP FOR EVER Smoky Extravagant Mascara

Do you have a product you would like me to review? Email me at Raivyn1985[at]gmail[dot]com. Serious inquiries only.