tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13071004609166671792024-03-05T19:13:25.288-05:00 Beauties in BloomMakeup and Skincare MusingsAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-12559265416646040032013-05-09T14:02:00.002-04:002013-06-12T18:37:25.842-04:00Real Techniques Limited Edition DuoFiber CollectionI'm going to assume if you're reading this blog that you all know about Samantha Chapman's Real Techniques makeup brushes by now! Since they came out, the brushes have pretty much taken the makeup/beauty community by storm. They are budget friendly and excellent quality and I use at least one or two real techniques brushes every time I sit down to do my makeup. I was very excited when I heard that a new limited edition set of brushes came out--of course I had to find them!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTphwcTAFJnI8bNeDalLu67ex1Hh0rFn5OtqaYT2GfZRHh0ldBPKs1dSRPIrQKaXEv-q384snDZxhLKSyamE42_qfyHoT-i5HzWo-gYS2gN5ytv0EITw0QsrjFA2Qmnrc5r80ycvJUVGQ/s1600/DSCN8038.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTphwcTAFJnI8bNeDalLu67ex1Hh0rFn5OtqaYT2GfZRHh0ldBPKs1dSRPIrQKaXEv-q384snDZxhLKSyamE42_qfyHoT-i5HzWo-gYS2gN5ytv0EITw0QsrjFA2Qmnrc5r80ycvJUVGQ/s640/DSCN8038.JPG" width="358" /></a></div>
The set is, as you can see, all duofiber--these types of brushes are typically used to give a lighter application of products. In this case though, they're not completely since both bristles are synthetic. It comes with a face brush, contour brush, and eye brush. I think the limited edition design is nice and simple, just like the rest of the Real Techniques line.<br />
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All three brushes are extremely soft.<br />
<b>Face brush:</b> not densely packed at all so it's not great for packing on product. It is nice for a light dusting of setting powder though and the softest of the three brushes. I tried using it to blend foundation and it was way too floppy and just could not blend it. It's also a bit too big for blush (for my cheeks!).<br />
<b>Contour brush:</b> more sturdy and dense than the face brush. I actually really like this for both powder and cream blush--it deposits just the right amount of color and blends nicely.<br />
<b>Eye brush:</b> I am kind of a blending brush junkie, so I always love to have fluffy tapered blending brushes in my collection. This one is a nice one for blending eyeshadow in the crease and also blending out cream eyeshdaow. I did find it was a tad too prickly to blend under eye concealer with though.<br />
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Here's a few comparisons to some of the brushes already in the Real Techniques line.<br />
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First the face brush compared to the blush brush:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyzBQYBTkAOz0bsYegwqyAeLbgdTQvwhwYc-f7dl2ydRHFEFyEArxKqT8UYUwWw0VuEUETRNkRkwt8m2dwIT5FCHXcu1mH4ixUOjW1GziMUVT7J0689S8AhbFNUKisiwWUlNsPlPf5GU/s1600/DSCN8041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyzBQYBTkAOz0bsYegwqyAeLbgdTQvwhwYc-f7dl2ydRHFEFyEArxKqT8UYUwWw0VuEUETRNkRkwt8m2dwIT5FCHXcu1mH4ixUOjW1GziMUVT7J0689S8AhbFNUKisiwWUlNsPlPf5GU/s640/DSCN8041.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duo-Fiber Face brush on the left and Blush brush on the right</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeaxCwtTKerWRN5Rqc90R-GBhxZVkIVhpZQKP8NwaprAARJ5Woz9EQY5znA4d8UdLj_zHi7tU4q-RKzWBnRyhLgZ7ocvtXZbw1ZO0nA6_3AuHJ8xBEqjy0zc8cF73zyg2hVKxkaTnr3w/s1600/DSCN8042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoeaxCwtTKerWRN5Rqc90R-GBhxZVkIVhpZQKP8NwaprAARJ5Woz9EQY5znA4d8UdLj_zHi7tU4q-RKzWBnRyhLgZ7ocvtXZbw1ZO0nA6_3AuHJ8xBEqjy0zc8cF73zyg2hVKxkaTnr3w/s640/DSCN8042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
As you can see, the blush brush is much more densely packed and is dome shaped. I prefer the blush brush overall just because I love the shape and find it to be completely multipurpose--I use it for blush, bronzer, and setting powder. The duo fiber face brush is flatter and I feel the shape lends itself mainly to setting powder (for me personally!) I have more info on the blush brush <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/07/real-techniques-blush-setting-powder.html">HERE</a>.<br />
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Now the contour brush vs. the regular contour brush:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVDOA2un3DEkgtt-aaD5Cbaiqj54mS3dhdMgcc6aKd_eQZq10KyzgExcBFTSMK9BdV6xPnB5tmiLUtdxlNMOK0ICCCxJWdbGpBQCDDM6-iQi65BQftQh5jeV_F_8EOQmqxPHoEQ-2FIE/s1600/DSCN8043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVDOA2un3DEkgtt-aaD5Cbaiqj54mS3dhdMgcc6aKd_eQZq10KyzgExcBFTSMK9BdV6xPnB5tmiLUtdxlNMOK0ICCCxJWdbGpBQCDDM6-iQi65BQftQh5jeV_F_8EOQmqxPHoEQ-2FIE/s640/DSCN8043.JPG" width="636" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duo-Fiber Contour brush on left and Contour brush on right</td></tr>
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The regular contour brush is bit bigger and slightly more domed. I think they are pretty interchangeable, though I think I do prefer the duo-fiber one. The new one works cream blush into the skin perfectly and it picks up the perfect amount of blush thanks to the different bristles.<br />
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Lastly I compared the Mac 286 (which is another double fibered blending brush) with the new real techniques eye brush, since I don't really own many Real Techniques eye brushes to compare it to.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20-X4lGDQArC6bY-mWCcYAGj0yImhXdWuvuG4shcbyPfe3Fvq1h3dPL5bvOhna-fMZYhyphenhyphenjr9CKGuXKVH-ziu2q0FMiKoK0PxKE4Jf8jzt3YBADe_yYErEc1XfvHcFB-bDxQVt1axxyFA/s1600/DSCN8045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20-X4lGDQArC6bY-mWCcYAGj0yImhXdWuvuG4shcbyPfe3Fvq1h3dPL5bvOhna-fMZYhyphenhyphenjr9CKGuXKVH-ziu2q0FMiKoK0PxKE4Jf8jzt3YBADe_yYErEc1XfvHcFB-bDxQVt1axxyFA/s640/DSCN8045.JPG" width="432" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mac 286 on left and Duo-Fiber eye brush on right</td></tr>
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The Mac 286 is a bit fluffier, which I prefer when blending eyeshadow since it diffuses the color a bit more. On the whole though it's a nice brush for getting precise color into the crease or blending the edges of cream eyeshadow! It's always a good one to have on hand. For concealer, I much prefer blending it out with the Real Techniques Setting brush <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/07/real-techniques-blush-setting-powder.html">HERE</a>.<br />
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Overall I'm pretty happy with the brushes. My favorite is definitely the contour brush--I've been getting more into cream blush and highlighter and this brush just picks up and applies the right amount. I imagine it would work nicely for a chiseled cheek bone contour but I usually prefer to contour with a bigger brush (like the blush brush or a Mac 138). I also think the eye brush is a good one to have if you wear eyeshadow--I love having these type of brushes around since I use them so much when doing my eye makeup.<br />
I do have to say I was a bit disappointed with the face brush. When I first saw it, I thought the shape looked like the old Sephora 55 pro airbrush brush, which I LOVE for foundation--but this Real Techniques one is much too floppy to use for much of anything besides setting powder or a light dusting of bronzer all over the face. I think it would be better if the brush bristles were a bit more dense.<br />
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This limited edition set is apparently only available for a year. So you have a pretty long time to decide if you want to pick them up or not! They retail for $19.99 and I bought them at Ulta. The bargain hunter in me got them for probably half off thanks to a promotion that was happening plus Ulta coupons--so it really turns out to be a great deal in the end. If you are in need of some new makeup brushes for lightweight, buildable application, then you my want to check these out. Overall though, i don't think it's a must-have set if you already have brushes you like simply because I am not crazy about the face brush. Because of that, I'd only recommend getting them if you are not paying full price! :)<br />
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What do you think about this limited edition collection?? Are these brushes you would want in your makeup bag?</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-39803100079091209482013-04-30T00:55:00.000-04:002013-05-02T22:28:28.001-04:00Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder has been one of my favorite face products for such a longggg time. It's probably been over three years. It is a product that I use literally every single day.</div>
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The texture is wonderfully silky, fine milled, and smooth. It feels very natural on the skin. Although it says translucent I do believe it might be a little too light for darker skin tones; the color of "translucent" is a light yellow toned cream. For light to medium skin tones it is brightening and won't leave a white cast.<br />
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It controls shine on my t-zone without looking cakey and it sets my makeup beautifully for the day, making sure my oily skin does not peak through. It has a semi-matte finish which is perfect if you like your makeup to look glowy. To apply I take a nice, big fluffy brush, dip it in the cap and then concentrate most of the powder on my nose, chin, and forehead-- then do a light dusting on my cheeks. This sets my makeup but does not overly mattify--although if you do like an all matte look, a more dense application would definitely give you that finish. I really have nothing bad to say about it except that it is on the pricier side.<br />
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I buy my powder from <a href="http://www.sephora.com/loose-setting-powder-P109908?skuId=870618">Sephora</a> or <a href="http://lauramercier.com/">LauraMercier.com</a>, it retails for $35! It's pricey in comparison to other face powders but I absolutely love the effect it has on the skin and I can easily make the powder last over a year since you don't need to use a lot of it.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-66773422983777196392013-04-23T12:33:00.001-04:002013-04-23T12:33:43.278-04:00Disappointing Product: Nivea Lip ButterHey guys! Today I wanted to do a quick review on a product I was pretty disappointed in. I am one of those people who does a lot of research before making any type of purchase. It's pretty much an obsession--I spend a ton of time looking up reviews, videos, swatches, and always get samples when I can (especially if it's a high end product). It might be over the top but on the whole I almost always end up with products I don't regret buying. This one slipped through the cracks! My disappointing product for today is the Nivea Lip Butter in Vanilla & Macadamia Kiss.<br />
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The Nivea lip butters have been very hyped by bloggers and vloggers alike since they came out two or three months ago. What first intrigued me was the fact that they are called lip butters. With that title I would assume they are super moisturizing. Also, the tins look so irresistibly cute and the flavors sound delicious. Plus, they are easy to find at the drugstore and cheap!<br />
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The best thing about the lip butters is the smell--my vanilla & macadamia kiss one smells so amazing I wish I could eat it. That's about the only positive aspect it has going for it. Firstly, this lip butter leaves a white cast on the lips which can be quite unflattering--it's definitely a lip product I just use at home. Most disappointing about it: I don't get any hydration or moisture relief despite it's creamy, buttery consistency. It feels nice on the lips when you first apply it but disappears rather quickly (like within 20 minutes) and does not leave my lips feeling any better. I'm definitely not one who suffers from extremely dry lips--they can get a little bit chapped if I neglect them but overall they're not in terrible shape. So I can really only recommend these if you don't experience ANY dryness whatsoever and just want something to use that smells good. If your lips do get a little dry like most people, go for something else..<br />
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With so many amazing lip balms and moisturizers on the market, this one to me is a waste of money. I bought mine (with my own money) at a CVS--depending where you buy yours I believe they are between $3-5. Even though they are cheap I would honestly put that money towards a better product like the Paula's Choice Lip treatment or the Jack Black Lip Balms. It's really a shame because they look adorable in their little tins and smell great.<br />
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What's your favorite lip balm at the moment!? Are there any products you've bought lately that haven't worked out for you??Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-43027008568114370062013-04-14T17:58:00.000-04:002013-04-14T17:58:09.405-04:00Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner Forest Shimmer Ink<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I wanted to show you another Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner that I have been a fan of for a few months now. I previously talked about how much I love the Black Ink color <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2011/06/bobbi-brown-gel-eyeliner-in-black-ink.html">HERE</a>. I think Bobbi Brown's gel eyeliners are such a fantastic product--I wish I could collect them all!</div>
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Forest Shimmer Ink is a sooty dark olivey green with subtle gold shimmer. It is such a stunning color! I personally love wearing it with green, brown, gold, and cream eyeshadows or just on it's own. It's very versatile for a green eyeliner because the brown/olive undertones helps make it more neutral and wearable.</div>
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Pigmentation is excellent--it's completely opaque and the shimmer stays on to give a lovely effect on the eyes. Texture is creamy and smooth so it applies very easily with all types of eyeliner brushes. I personally have extremely good wear time with Bobbi Brown gel eyeliners both on the lid and on the waterline. They last all day on me until I remove it at night. Another plus is the packaging. The lids screw on very tight so they don't dry out. My last pot of gel eyeliner lasted three and a half years and was creamy until the day I finished it!</div>
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I believe the Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliners retail for $23--sadly since I lasted posted about my Black Ink liner (<a href="http://Forest Shimmer Ink is a sooty dark olivey green with subtle gold shimmer. It is such a stunning color! I personally love wearing it with green, brown, gold, and cream eyeshadows. It's very versatile for a green eyeliner because the brown/olive undertones helps make it more neutral and wearable. Pigmentation is excellent--it's completely opaque and the shimmer stays on to give a lovely effect on the eyes. Texture is creamy and smooth so it applies very easily with all types of eyeliner brushes. I have extremely good wear time with Bobbi Brown gel eyeliners. They last all day on me until I remove it at night. They also work amazingly well on the waterline--they don't budge once they set!">here</a>) the price has gone up $2. I found mine at a <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/bobbi-brown-long-wear-gel-eyeliner?ID=393158">Macy's</a> counter and I know they sell it at <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bobbi-brown-long-wear-gel-eyeliner/2797696?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=bobbi_brown_long-wear_gel_eyeliner:12023U&cm_pla=makeup:women:eye&cm_ven=Google_Product_Ads&mr:referralID=7cc1471b-792d-11e2-b779-001b2166c62d">Nordstrom</a> as well. I don't believe you can buy this shade at Sephora since they don't have the full range available. It is definitely on the pricey side but I think it is worth it--the pot lasts forever, the shade is unique, and the wear time can't be beaten (for me at least!).<br />
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Would you wear a olive eyeliner like Forest Shimmer Ink? Have you tried Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliners!?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-3852312498640320072013-04-08T19:11:00.001-04:002013-04-08T19:11:46.732-04:00Subtle Green FOTDLately this has become one of my go to looks. In the last few years green has become one of my favorite colors--which is shocking because I was always a purple girl growing up! As you may know from reading my blog, I'm usually a scaredy cat with very bright color--pairing colors with neutrals is always my favorite thing to do. Today I used a khaki color on the lid with a neutral brown in the crease--the perfect way to wear colors if you want something more subtle. This time I added a touch of Inglot 333 to the outer-v to give it even more of a green tinge! Hope you like it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH01cHIdsOoMZkQ3rRdMgJvIcUTba8ptsOcSA4MPG-Y_nu1Uivd0pYO-jsQe-Y9DZDuJaNTdzszZxXvh7iQ5Ree2DjM3dsJUaRiYpUa5NBc3ORkbm-J5ABM2YMVS5DUgFoJKnbNRoSQJA/s1600/DSCN8017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH01cHIdsOoMZkQ3rRdMgJvIcUTba8ptsOcSA4MPG-Y_nu1Uivd0pYO-jsQe-Y9DZDuJaNTdzszZxXvh7iQ5Ree2DjM3dsJUaRiYpUa5NBc3ORkbm-J5ABM2YMVS5DUgFoJKnbNRoSQJA/s640/DSCN8017.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura Mercier caviar stick Khaki on lid, Urban Decay Naked in crease, Inglot 333 in outer-v. Also a touch of Laura Mercier caviar stick in Sugar Frost right on the tearduct!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_B37L9EnaY4/UV5NgcBDx-I/AAAAAAAABpI/yfRhNCZ1Xco/s1600/DSCN8027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_B37L9EnaY4/UV5NgcBDx-I/AAAAAAAABpI/yfRhNCZ1Xco/s640/DSCN8027.JPG" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kept the rest of my makeup dewy and natural...and of course, messy hair! :)</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b>Face:</b></span></div>
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Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span><br />
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer (I just hit pan on this! See my review <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/03/too-faced-chocolate-soleil-bronzer.html" style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">here</a>!)</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Cabo Coral</div>
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Benefit Watts Up on cheekbones (from the Sephora birthday gift)</div>
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Anastasia Bold & Beautiful Brow Kit</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Mac Painterly Paint Pot</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Khaki & Sugar Frost</div>
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Urban Decay Naked eyeshadow from Naked 1 Palette</div>
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Inglot 333matte</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Rimmel Scandaleyes Nude Eyeliner</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Benefit They're Real Mascara (also from the Sephora birthday gift!)</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Cake Eyeliner in Black Ebony (to tightline)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
NEW Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya (I just bought this, will review soon!)</div>
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Do you find yourself wearing colors that are more neutral or bright? Do you have any recent favorite color combinations? I don't think I will ever get sick of greens and browns together! :)</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-37049207899280905122013-04-05T00:16:00.002-04:002013-04-05T00:24:44.822-04:00Estee Lauder Pure Color Blush: Lover's Blush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Estee Lauder has certainly been making a comeback in the makeup world ever since makeup artist Tom Pecheux became the creative genius behind Estee Lauder's pure color lines. They have come out with a number of exciting products--more pigmented eyeshadows, new lipsticks, colored mascaras, etc. Last year, Estee Lauder's blush line was completely revamped into the Pure Color Blush line we know now. Their blushes are definitely giving blush frontrunners like Nars, Mac, & Illamasqua a run for their money! I've been using the shade "Lover's Blush" a lot recently.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1bwptsz_7Ec-bAlOydHRmE_s7hPNw7V2nAHLTAnxVYKieLiclBXOOX43fiPZkmpsn7XceLZ1yC2mpAzIAd6qurEDYUbTVti3ZdUl-FKRjPVr2bCPWn_j7fgA-fEMTG3QWlLw6SmVnHc/s1600/DSCN7445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1bwptsz_7Ec-bAlOydHRmE_s7hPNw7V2nAHLTAnxVYKieLiclBXOOX43fiPZkmpsn7XceLZ1yC2mpAzIAd6qurEDYUbTVti3ZdUl-FKRjPVr2bCPWn_j7fgA-fEMTG3QWlLw6SmVnHc/s640/DSCN7445.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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They're housed in a large gold compact and contain a mini brush for touchups. I personally don't like when companies include mini brushes--I usually find the quality to be quite useless and it just takes up space in the compact. I've just kept mine in there unused. The blush size is quite generous, you get .25oz. For the exact same price of $28, you only get .16oz in a Nars blush. Something to think about there! I remember when Nars blushes were much less than they are now and the were same size! Don't get me wrong, I still love my Nars blushes!!</div>
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Here's a swatch of the color:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nzdadO8lMjREwaJrTKucWNDNvjlBtwz9s4N4KVY_hz_JLnNB1MDK5fpymxznuQShLTsRxYB2z1Y1WKhyphenhyphendXOrKuRXlmbiHZtQ3Gs7oC6x2rIM2WFY0yb-_ForaN6EbsGUQMAQuELCSzk/s1600/DSCN7447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nzdadO8lMjREwaJrTKucWNDNvjlBtwz9s4N4KVY_hz_JLnNB1MDK5fpymxznuQShLTsRxYB2z1Y1WKhyphenhyphendXOrKuRXlmbiHZtQ3Gs7oC6x2rIM2WFY0yb-_ForaN6EbsGUQMAQuELCSzk/s640/DSCN7447.JPG" width="624" /></a></div>
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Lover's Blush is a warm peachy, rose shade with bits of gold throughout. The gold is definitely not a gritty, chunky glitter--it's a very, very subtle gold shimmer. This shade would be particularly flattering on warmer skintones. The color is absolutely perfect for giving you a soft, glowy look and because it's not a strong color it can go well with so many different looks. It's become one of my go-to blushes when I want a dewy but natural cheek. You can see me wearing it in this<a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/02/pink-resistance-and-goldy-purple-eye.html"> FOTD</a>!!</div>
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The Pure Color blush line is heavily pigmented yet also very buildable if you use a light touch. Just a tap in the pan is perfect for the first layer of blush. The texture is soft and powdery, making it easy and quick to blend. As always with blushes, the most important is how long it lasts. I'm happy to report that it lasts all day--a solid 6-7 hours for me and my combo/oily skin!</div>
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I really don't have negatives to say about this blush. I think the quality is wonderful and you can see for yourself in person that the shade range is great if you're looking for a wearable color. Many of them are variations on pinks, roses, and peaches. I hope in the future that they come out with more punchy, bold shades, I'd be all over those! Only major negative is the pricetag of $28--though because of the large size it will probably last forever!<br />
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What do you think of Lover's blush? Have you tried any makeup from Estee Lauder? I have been using their Advanced Night Repair Serum for a while now and also have a tube of Double Wear Light foundation I need to start using--the serum is incredible, I love it!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-23297725693739469482013-03-30T13:02:00.005-04:002013-03-31T00:32:12.626-04:00Bronze Eyeshadow Swatches: Mac Tempting, Urban Decay Smog, Nars Kalahari, & InglotIf I had to choose a favorite eyeshadow color to use, my favorite would most definitely be a shimmery bronzey brown. Call me boring when there are so many vibrant colors to choose from, but I can't help it! I absolutely love a shimmery chocolate smokey eye more than anything else. I think brown is flattering on all eye colors and it can be made subtle enough for daytime or dramatic for evening. I just hit pan on two bronze colors in my eyeshadow collection so I thought I'd do some comparison swatches for you before I finish them up!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBKkH9yt9A1t5gN0q-67ybUdFkqTW4I94OaQLwxVmMXxj5uUMY_aGTnR11ASwqL5tIF0XNO-LB-CfMIVBF_R9GwC1g6Yx7T6JqeP5fr4_djCv7GK4V86c0Ws4QdF9DobL6Oin2unbi_Q/s1600/DSCN7991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnBKkH9yt9A1t5gN0q-67ybUdFkqTW4I94OaQLwxVmMXxj5uUMY_aGTnR11ASwqL5tIF0XNO-LB-CfMIVBF_R9GwC1g6Yx7T6JqeP5fr4_djCv7GK4V86c0Ws4QdF9DobL6Oin2unbi_Q/s640/DSCN7991.JPG" width="582" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inglot 409 on the left, Nars Kalahari on the top, Urban Decay Smog in the middle and Mac Tempting (with the huge bit of pan showing!) on the right!</td></tr>
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Comparison swatches! L-R Inglot 409, Urban Decay Smog, Mac Tempting, Nars Kalahari</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZov3iuH8l2Jw-whbp548TJEBVtVTqz9YbNbLBj_ScbP5yB3sKH0QpE4iTrkC5BIXM-i_kzll7GyHR5hBz1wei32kMrOtdkcKtBbmSHysWDMtd86AgEd1w_cSHN2eb9P9MeiWBiFGu9E/s1600/DSCN7994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZov3iuH8l2Jw-whbp548TJEBVtVTqz9YbNbLBj_ScbP5yB3sKH0QpE4iTrkC5BIXM-i_kzll7GyHR5hBz1wei32kMrOtdkcKtBbmSHysWDMtd86AgEd1w_cSHN2eb9P9MeiWBiFGu9E/s640/DSCN7994.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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From Left to right:</div>
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<b>Inglot 409 pearl:</b> This bronze has a bit more red warmth to it, especially compared to Urban Decay Smog and is a bit darker--though I do think it's similar on the lid. Both 409 and Kalahari are a little bit rosier and don't have as much of a golden undertone as Smog & Tempting. Inglot makes a bunch of gorgeous bronzey colors--I think #406 (which I don't have) might be more similar to Smog. I love this one and the texture and pigmentation, like most Inglot eyeshadows, is amazing.</div>
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<b>Urban Decay Smog: </b>This one is probably my favorite one and the <i>ultimate</i> bronze in my opinion! The texture is incredibly soft and buttery. It also has the most gold tones to it which I find utterly flattering on the eyes. As you can see I've hit pan on this one in the Naked 1 Palette--I'll definitely be repurchasing a single in the future!</div>
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<b>Mac Tempting:</b> This was actually one of the first Mac eyeshadows I ever got, back in my teens! Out of all of them, this probably has the grittiest texture--it blends well but it isn't as buttery smooth or as pigmented like the others. Once I finish this one I won't repurchase, just because I have others I prefer. It's very similar to Urban Decay's Smog so I'd definitely recommend skipping this one and going for Smog if you have to choose between the two.</div>
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<b>Nars Kalahari (left side)</b>: This is a gold, rosey bronze and also the most shimmery of the bunch. Now that I'm looking at it, it actually looks like a lighter version of Inglot 409 undertone wise! The texture is so soft and really makes a beautiful lid color.</div>
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That's all for today! I hope these swatches are helpful if you are in the market for a pretty bronzey brown eyeshadow! I love them all though Urban Decay Smog is my favorite with Inglot 409 and Kalahari in a tie for second place!</div>
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Do you have a lot of one color in your makeup collection? Any other bronze eyeshadow lovers out there!? What's your favorite!?</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-66333308287307192212013-03-24T00:16:00.002-04:002013-03-24T00:33:12.228-04:00Clean Rosegold Inspired MakeupSo lately I have been pretty obsessed with Laura Mercier products even more than usual, especially... Caviar Sticks! They are such a creamy and easy to apply product and best of all, they last all day on my lids! I do still wear primer so eyeshadow really doesn't budge, but without it the caviar sticks still last well for a few hours. I also have a very watery right eye that has caused many nightmares when applying eye makeup. I constantly have to retouch the inner corner of my eye (even when I wear primer) because the eyeshadow doesn't last in that one spot when my eye acts up. The Caviar Sticks miraculously stay put in that area! I love them! Todays' look was done with a newly released Laura Mercier Caviar Stick called Rosegold!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxfXDK98MZYy7OinJ9lEUQkWfLNsHk_6opumqlXh3nA9qre3TlVUcACLygQaTjbV-NHb-8PxxCL6Myh7PT7-lAVQqnUkElsPXvulXtXPKuMYQ9wbZ9-wRatpjpw-hIzORz7xsuwmSUZo/s1600/DSCN7882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxfXDK98MZYy7OinJ9lEUQkWfLNsHk_6opumqlXh3nA9qre3TlVUcACLygQaTjbV-NHb-8PxxCL6Myh7PT7-lAVQqnUkElsPXvulXtXPKuMYQ9wbZ9-wRatpjpw-hIzORz7xsuwmSUZo/s640/DSCN7882.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura Mercier Caviar stick in Rosegold all over lid, Mac Star Violet in outer-v, Mac Wedge in crease</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-2zJ9X7wQo/UTAizMZ3LlI/AAAAAAAABnA/DyxagdxFKCw/s1600/DSCN7899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-2zJ9X7wQo/UTAizMZ3LlI/AAAAAAAABnA/DyxagdxFKCw/s640/DSCN7899.JPG" width="570" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
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Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Bobbi Brown Corrector</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Maybelline Dream Matte Powder</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer (I just hit pan on this! See my review <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/03/too-faced-chocolate-soleil-bronzer.html">here</a>!)</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Natural Beauty</div>
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Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Pearl on cheekbones</div>
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Anastasia Bold & Beautiful Brow Kit</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Nars Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base</div>
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Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Rosegold</div>
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Mac Star Violet, Mac Wedge</div>
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Rimmel Scandaleyes Nude Eyeliner</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Estee Lauder Sumptuous Mascara (still hate it. can't wait until I finish it lol!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Cake Eyeliner in Black Ebony (to tightline)</span></div>
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Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner (winged liner on the lid)</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
Mac Shyshine Lipstick</div>
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Anastasia Roxanne Lipgloss (see review <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/anastasia-beverly-hills-2012-holiday.html">here</a>)</div>
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Hope you like this look! Rosegold is such nice color, I really think it can be flattering on all types of skin tones. Also, I apologize for such a repetative list of face products--I am pretty obsessed with the Becca highlighter, Laura Mercier primer & concealer, and YSL foundation--lately these are the products I've been using every single day! What are your favorite makeup products lately!?</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-71729891497377214052013-03-20T13:14:00.000-04:002013-03-20T13:14:28.274-04:00Too Faced Chocolate Soleil BronzerGuys, I finally hit pan on a bronzer I've had for a few years now! I've been using Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer for a long time now!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_0crPBZsspcO2r6nAs-5-RmjggNA38sPNgz2QVTlfTiHTLxcigaVMUYJY7PLwxFJnC7sc3r3L_ISYzn3pfozySrqY4v1FZRD22zvkdoVONAeGd94MOAv2Fgr-hJFLIth3uoR0S_UHhA/s1600/DSCN7655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY_0crPBZsspcO2r6nAs-5-RmjggNA38sPNgz2QVTlfTiHTLxcigaVMUYJY7PLwxFJnC7sc3r3L_ISYzn3pfozySrqY4v1FZRD22zvkdoVONAeGd94MOAv2Fgr-hJFLIth3uoR0S_UHhA/s640/DSCN7655.JPG" width="628" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the tiny bit of metal pan in the middle!? Since I took this picture it's even bigger! :)</td></tr>
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Firstly, I have to say this is the best smelling makeup product I own. It smells delicious, just like chocolate! I think it contains actual cocoa powder too. The scent is initially strong but the smell doesn't linger on the skin (therefore you can wear perfume and it won't interfere and you won't smell like a chocolate bar all day). </div>
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Chocolate Soleil is such a fantastic bronzer. It's matte and is not so warm toned that it turns orange on the skin--making it very easy to bronze up your skin in a natural way. Because there's no sparkle or shimmer it's easy to use as a contour or all over the face. For my skin tone I think the color is great, though I would definitely recommend more pale skin tones try their new milk chocolate soleil, a lighter version that came out this past year. It is really, really pigmented so you don't have to swirl your brush in it--just tap and apply! It also blends sooo nicely.</div>
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Packaging is nice and sturdy--as you can see it does get pretty dusty, but I've had this for at least 3 years now so it's gone through a lot!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uwj7gg9FTgRtHalrK1ysY0mwEytd439dFuSqnZkie6ijI2Y8y4v7clx5fWhtuevSU8UxB2tzoY69oxQI_-T9TlZ28fhUzUvdaNu8p6wz-Z-mggQCXfng-8vobDYuFsaF3n1iZsI6esA/s1600/DSCN7657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uwj7gg9FTgRtHalrK1ysY0mwEytd439dFuSqnZkie6ijI2Y8y4v7clx5fWhtuevSU8UxB2tzoY69oxQI_-T9TlZ28fhUzUvdaNu8p6wz-Z-mggQCXfng-8vobDYuFsaF3n1iZsI6esA/s640/DSCN7657.JPG" width="354" /></a></div>
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Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer now retails for $29.00, you can buy it from <a href="https://www.toofaced.com/p-1023-chocolate-soleil-matte-bronzing-powder.aspx?">Too Faced</a> or from <a href="http://www.sephora.com/chocolate-soleil-medium-deep-matte-bronzer-P229406">Sephora</a>. It's pricey but it has lasted me a long time and has a wonderful texture and color!<br />
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There's so many nice bronzers on the market--what's your favorite?! Have you tried chocolate soleil?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-72257520979163652262013-03-17T12:18:00.000-04:002013-03-17T12:18:13.271-04:00Recent Empties!!Hey everyone!<br />
So I've been accumulating a bunch of empty products lately that I thought I'd share with you. These are all products that I've finished in the past few months, probably since January. A bunch of these products are favorites of mine that I have most likely mentioned on my blog before, so I'll be brief. I also had a couple products that I was happy to get rid of--I'll let you know why!<br />
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Lots of Skincare Empties!</div>
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<b>Cerave PM Moisturizer: </b>This has been my favorite face moisturizer for about 8 or 9 months now. I started using Cerave PM because my combo/oily skin felt very dehydrated (even in the warmer months). I've tried a handful of expensive moisturizers from Sephora and this one is definitely my favorite <i>and </i>it's affordable at the drugstore. This moisturizer really keeps my skin hydrated throughout the day without making me look greasy. I use it every day and night. I've gone through 3 of these already and will continue to buy it!</div>
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<b>Bioderma Crealine H20: </b>Officially my holy grail makeup remover. I had wanted to try Bioderma ever since I saw Lisa Eldridge rave about it on her youtube channel. Only problem is it is not readily available in the United States. After wanting to try it for nearly a year I finally ordered some off of Amazon. I am so glad I did!! It is amazing at removing every single bit of eye makeup, including stubborn mascara--and no rubbing needed! I also use Bioderma on my face (after wiping with a makeup wipe) to make sure every bit of face makeup is removed. Ever since I started using Bioderma, I have really noticed a significant decline in any blemishes, most likely because my makeup is being properly removed. I wish it was sold in the US--I may try some other cleansing waters just because Bioderma is more annoying to get ahold of. If you can get your hands on it, it is a wonderful product.</div>
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<b>Bliss Lid & Lash Makeup Remover:</b> This stuff took soooooo long to use up and I am FINALLY rid of it. I hated it. I bought it a long time ago based on the recommendation of a Sephora sales associate. Never again! It did an awful job of removing my eye makeup and my eyes always felt irritated after because I would end up rubbing them to get the makeup off. If it ever got in my eyes it stung too. I will never, ever buy this stuff again and would recommend staying clear from it.</div>
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<b>Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid:</b> I'm going to have to wait and do a full post on this product because I have so much love for it. If I had to choose my all time favorite product in the entire world, it would hands down, without a doubt be this one. It completely transformed my skin. I never had nice skin before--it was always filled with bits of acne and was uneven and dull. This stuff is beautiful skin in a bottle. I will make sure to do a full post on it soon!</div>
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<b>Fresh Sugar Lip Balm:</b> I got this free from Sephora as part of their birthday gift last year. It has a nice lemony scent but it is certainly nothing special. My lips felt hydrated and smooth but that feeling only lasted when it was generously applied to the lips. I know many people really love these, but I was severely unimpressed and am glad it was a freebie!</div>
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<b>Paula's Choice LIp & Body Treatment Balm: </b>This lip balm was mentioned in September in my last "recent empties" post! You can read about it <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/09/recent-empties.html">here</a>! Best lip balm I have ever tried--keeps them soft long after it has worn off. I can't be without this stuff!</div>
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Makeup Empties!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Y_BCzMTcwosi7-PA07ejDxxrw-cynM9BNetxCKMpG_BDI4EEZLq-uGj90SHrASnz-ZBDu_02T85E7lBNYMULJ_SnqBe2X7EEeu2jN_oVHUucgQZQ-FBsYQMiD0Ek-U0s13AvsXwM3V0/s1600/DSCN7972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Y_BCzMTcwosi7-PA07ejDxxrw-cynM9BNetxCKMpG_BDI4EEZLq-uGj90SHrASnz-ZBDu_02T85E7lBNYMULJ_SnqBe2X7EEeu2jN_oVHUucgQZQ-FBsYQMiD0Ek-U0s13AvsXwM3V0/s640/DSCN7972.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Maybelline Full & Soft Mascara: </b>I had resisted trying this mascara for such a long time. It seemed like every beauty blogger, youtuber, and their mother was obsessed with this stuff. Well now I can see why. It gives you such fluttery lashes: amazing length and a good amount of volume when layered. Unlike Lashblast which can easily look dramatic in two coats, Full & Soft manages to look very natural no matter how much you put on. I loved this mascara and I will definitely repurchase it!<br />
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<b>Covergirl Lashblast Volume Mascara: </b>I'm sorry, you are probably sick of seeing Covergirl Lashblast on every single page of my blog, but I am obsessed with it. It makes my lashes look so voluminous, long & dramatic. I used to only wear this mascara but now I actually think this one can be a little bit intense for daytime so I save it for nighttime or to pair with smokey eyes. Maybelline Full & Soft is now my choice for daytime. It's still my favorite mascara ever and if you haven't tried it, get off the computer and go buy a tube!!!<br />
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<b>Lancome Hypnose Drama:</b> I feel like I am always let down by expensive mascaras, which is one of the reasons why I only use samples and never buy them. Hypnose Drama gave decent length but didn't really give much volume to my lashes. I just didn't think it did anything special for me. I thought the spiral-y brush was interesting but it was seriously prickly if I ever missed my lashes and hit my eyelid lol! Verdict: SO glad it was a free sample and that I did not waste my money on it!<br />
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<b>Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer: </b>Okay, I just searched through my blog and seriously cannot believe I have not done a full post on this product! It is one of my absolute favorite products ever and is loved by so many people (including my best friends--HEY BOHREE!!!). Great coverage, feels lovely, good match for my skintone (I wear Nude) and just an all around essential product. I've already repurchased and will continue to do so!<br />
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What are some products that you recently finished up? Any disappointing products? Let me know in the comments below!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-59957857028432801242013-03-14T15:35:00.004-04:002022-01-18T15:29:09.891-05:00Follow Beauties In Bloom!Hey everyone!<br />
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This is a heads up to all of my followers who use Google Reader! I just found out that Google Reader is going to be shut down in a few months. As far as I can tell the internet is in an uproar over it! Thankfully there's many different sites you can use to keep track of your blogs, so I thought I'd let you know now so you can switch over before you lose the blogs you follow.<br />
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When I first started my blog I used Google Reader but decided to switch to Bloglovin' after playing with their interface. I personally find it very easy to use and it allows me to organize the blogs I follow in a simple, neat way. I also love the Bloglovin' iPhone app! Bloglovin' also has an import option so it'll be easy for those of you who use Google Reader to transfer your blogs! I've also heard that Hello Cotton is another popular site used to keep track of blogs. I'm sure there are other sites you can use but these are just two popular ones!<br />
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Feel free to use the links below if you would like to keep following Beauties In Bloom!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2450180/beauties-in-bloom"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Follow on Bloglovin'</span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.hellocotton.com/mypage/beauties-in-bloom">Follow on Hello Cotton</a></span><br />
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What do you use to follow your favorite blogs??Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-61157143720512727022013-03-13T00:34:00.000-04:002013-03-13T00:34:13.952-04:00Real Techniques Expert Face Brush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ever since Real Techniques brushes came out they have taken the cosmetic world by storm. Real Techniques has managed to make great quality makeup brushes available at super affordable prices. They're also 100% cruelty free! I have a couple of her brushes and I love them all. The Expert Face Brush just may be my favorite of the bunch--it has become my go-to for applying foundation!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSFdZj79KfLW57-5mEJzQ7MwsBTk6ODxCN1Fq4tqvsjmLCMWZn4LfWG-NZ6ndp4zeu-9x91uoP2LQcXDg0uwGzu5pXHogOVjYuqVNIka0OxAFN-aIFC3ezULFm88NNb_FyTWxX6EpJ3Q/s1600/DSCN7432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSFdZj79KfLW57-5mEJzQ7MwsBTk6ODxCN1Fq4tqvsjmLCMWZn4LfWG-NZ6ndp4zeu-9x91uoP2LQcXDg0uwGzu5pXHogOVjYuqVNIka0OxAFN-aIFC3ezULFm88NNb_FyTWxX6EpJ3Q/s640/DSCN7432.JPG" width="260" /></a></div>
I've tried all types of foundation brushes--flat ones, stippling brushes, fluffy ones, etc. This one is the best. It is a sort of paddle shape but instead of being flat like a typical foundation brush, it's rounded and thick--making it perfect for buffing in foundation too. The bristles are incredibly soft, but because of the density it is also very firm. It blends my tinted moisturizers and liquid foundations like a dream and leaves my skin with an airbrushed finish. I usually dot my foundation all over my skin with my fingers and then I use the expert face brush to blend. It's just fantastic and makes blending foundation so, so effortless. If I were to recommend one foundation brush from the drugstore or from Sephora, I would definitely say to try this one first.<br />
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I also wanted to mention that it cleans very easily and it hasn't shed any hairs either. I wash it with a few drops of Dr. Bronners soap--works like a dream! I've had this brush for almost a year now and so far the handle has not started to peel like the handle of my blush brush (check out that review<a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/07/real-techniques-blush-setting-powder.html"> HERE</a>).<br />
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I found mine at Ulta for $8.99--and as always there are coupons available all the time so it works out to be an even better deal. I've seen Real Techniques brushes pop up in a lot more locations recently--Bed Bath & Beyond, beauty supply stores, etc.<br />
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What do you think about the Expert Face Brush? Do you have any favorite Real Techniques brushes? I'm dying to try more and would love to hear your thoughts on other ones you like!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-4055611898282619722013-03-08T00:59:00.000-05:002013-03-08T01:03:30.008-05:00Natural Looking Birthday Makeup!Hey everyone! I celebrated my birthday over the weekend and was able to take a few shots of my makeup before I headed out the door. I just went out with my boyfriend, a few friends and some family.It was pretty laid back day and I didn't want to wear any over the top makeup. I did a light gold eye and defined by tightlining. I absolutely love this technique! It makes my lashes look much thicker but still natural!<br />
If you haven't heard of it, tightlining is basically a way to line the eye by wiggling in a long wear eyeliner product into the lashlines (not the waterline!) to really thicken the lashes. It really helps to enhance and define the eye without having to line the waterline or do a more obvious line next to your lashes. I still smudged some eyeshadow along my lashlines, but tightlining has become my new favorite technique! I've been using Laura Mercier Cake eyeliner--it's so easy to apply and doesn't budge!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQn1xIL64D2ye8G92zocqTBoMoltmpZ0qYyWkImoSJEZ5PJFnfyhlc1Zdk912tJ3OCzLGkdlcN_CWny9xBj4zLsLcqoTvhRjTUNUlXdo3fUnbqW80jXpIH0oWoK8NnHDm2-JWT-yqz3jA/s1600/DSCN7925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQn1xIL64D2ye8G92zocqTBoMoltmpZ0qYyWkImoSJEZ5PJFnfyhlc1Zdk912tJ3OCzLGkdlcN_CWny9xBj4zLsLcqoTvhRjTUNUlXdo3fUnbqW80jXpIH0oWoK8NnHDm2-JWT-yqz3jA/s640/DSCN7925.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura Mercier Sandglow Caviar Stick on lid, Urban Decay buck in crease, Smog on lower lashline, and creep along upper lashline</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FHZlsgO7UOQ/UTL98F_D1WI/AAAAAAAABnc/7qLITGW-q_U/s1600/DSCN7921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FHZlsgO7UOQ/UTL98F_D1WI/AAAAAAAABnc/7qLITGW-q_U/s640/DSCN7921.JPG" width="508" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b>Face:</b></span></div>
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Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30 (a tiny bit on cheeks for extra coverage)</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Garnier Anti-Dark Circle Eye Rollerball</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Sonia Kashuk brightening powder under eyes</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Maybelline Dream Matte Powder</div>
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Illamasqua Lover Blush</div>
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Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Pearl on cheekbones</div>
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Anastasia Bold & Beautiful Brow Kit</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Nars Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base</div>
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Mac femme fi, brow highlight</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Sand Glow</div>
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Urban Decay Naked Palette: Buck, Creep, Smog<br />
Rimmel Scandaleyes nude eyeliner</div>
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Laura Mercier Cake eyeliner in black ebony</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Benefit They're Real Mascara</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
YSl Glossy Stain #12</div>
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What are your go to products for a natural look? I feel like I have such a long list of products, but the overall effect doesn't look heavy in person!</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-5968894013743620562013-03-05T00:14:00.000-05:002013-03-05T00:17:37.684-05:00Zoya Jules<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know I know, yet <i>another</i> Zoya polish! What can I say, I'm obsessed! Anyway, today's nail polish is the beautiful Zoya Jules!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClgdhKmgN1ksuXI3kRmUVY2XI9AbqbV6-GXcRQhQu7Xruf0c2MOJTUe1yu0k4Lu52WbeGRMHsJNpxGCwvErGwkPKCicLTTAC9VgvdAEl2pSkw-yojJ-vXEybSyrJyAJI5rVFIX05h3KQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClgdhKmgN1ksuXI3kRmUVY2XI9AbqbV6-GXcRQhQu7Xruf0c2MOJTUe1yu0k4Lu52WbeGRMHsJNpxGCwvErGwkPKCicLTTAC9VgvdAEl2pSkw-yojJ-vXEybSyrJyAJI5rVFIX05h3KQ/s640/photo.JPG" width="414" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't mind the terrible cuticles, I was in a rush! haha!</td></tr>
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Jules is a shimmering gray tinged champagne taupey color. A somewhat vague description, but it is definitely special. It's neutral enough to be subtle but still unique and shimmery to make it interesting! It was great in two coats though I could have done with a thin third coat. Formula is excellent as usual, not too thick, not too thin.<br />
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Thoughts on Zoya Jules? As always don't forget about the share the love rewards program (you can read about <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/04/zoya-share-love.html">HERE</a>) and to check out their facebook page for special deals!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-28414412939037217732013-03-01T13:24:00.000-05:002013-03-24T00:46:28.719-04:00Nars Rue Bonaparte Vs. Rimmel Scandaleyes Nude EyelinerToday I have a battle of the nude eyeliners!! For nearly a year, Nars Rue Bonaparte has been a staple in my makeup bag. Nars Rue Bonaparte is a creamy, nude colored eyeliner pencil. I have loved using a nude color on the waterline. I used to use black on the waterline all the time but dark colors on the waterline can actually make eyes look smaller. I still love using black, especially with smokier eyes but I have found that nude is a wonderful alternative. Nude eyeliner covers up any pink on the waterline that can make you look tired and makes your eyes look much more wide eyed and open.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoua8F6_yMexG7_H1MuPG4_f9MLYfaEcaJ2vihBwDqa6ON5oz1jnqU7Ou04ye8jvGuqA20-UVdRdNtwwVKjZEpjb5d6Y-JfoQjXhI9wcEh1e45OhxLJ8PnuSO1BU-Y3zN0ZDG6IbFzwsE/s1600/DSCN7638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoua8F6_yMexG7_H1MuPG4_f9MLYfaEcaJ2vihBwDqa6ON5oz1jnqU7Ou04ye8jvGuqA20-UVdRdNtwwVKjZEpjb5d6Y-JfoQjXhI9wcEh1e45OhxLJ8PnuSO1BU-Y3zN0ZDG6IbFzwsE/s640/DSCN7638.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nars Rue Bonaparte has a wonderfully creamy texture and is the perfect soft matte nude color to make eyes look bright. I already used up one pencil completely and am currently working through a second one--that's how much I love the effect! So when Rimmel came out with their new Scandaleyes waterproof eyeliners, I was ecstatic to hear that they came out with a nude color! After watching <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME0XtAls77o">THIS</a> video from makeup artist Josh Collier, I KNEW I had to try them. The idea of finding a drugstore dupe that performs better than a high end product always gets me excited ;)<br />
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As you can see in the picture below, Rimmel Scandaleyes on the left is the slightest bit darker however they both have the same eye opening effect on the eyes. For my skin tone I can wear either but if you have a lighter skin tone than me, Nars Rue Bonaparte may be more flattering.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCMpqnYst5QcMK7AI9mh8uv4jtyNjepVSTWuB4MvdzJD5fQYT36wKOg3vGugHLKYRvPj_t_6L744rnJffUqgsdPX7eywakEpmBQi7u835uOLTlnryuqHp1zj2qstNLBdwKv1aXEiG4Ds/s1600/DSCN7639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCMpqnYst5QcMK7AI9mh8uv4jtyNjepVSTWuB4MvdzJD5fQYT36wKOg3vGugHLKYRvPj_t_6L744rnJffUqgsdPX7eywakEpmBQi7u835uOLTlnryuqHp1zj2qstNLBdwKv1aXEiG4Ds/s640/DSCN7639.JPG" width="524" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left, Rimmel Scandaleeyes Right, Nars Rue Bonaparte</td></tr>
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In terms of wear time, I have to say Rimmel absolutely takes the win! Nars Rue Bonaparte looks so nice on the eyes but it never lasted as long as I wanted on my waterline. Rue Bonaparte's wear time was always the one critique. It probably lasts 3 hours until it wears off and I have to reapply. Rimmel on the other hand lasts <i>all day, </i>at least double the wear time of Nars. I am so impressed!! I also think the Rimmel texture is the slightest bit softer, which is always a plus when rubbing a pencil on the waterline.</div>
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The only thing I would change about Rimmel Scandaleyes is that they have to be sharpened by a pencil sharpener. The Nars pencil has a twist up mechanism and a tiny sharpener on the back of it. I much prefer that method since less product is wasted and it's just easier for me that way.</div>
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If you'd like to see them in action, here's some FOTD's with Rimmel Scandaleyes: <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/03/clean-rosegold-inspired-makeup.html">1 </a>& <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/03/natural-looking-birthday-makeup.html">2</a>. Here's two with Nars Rue Bonaparte: <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/04/quick-fresh-fotd.html">1</a> & <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/03/soft-purrples-fotd.html">2</a></div>
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Price wise, Nars Rue Bonaparte retails for $24 and Rimmel Scandaleyes is around $5 at drugstores. If you've been wanting to try a nude eyeliner, definitely try Rimmel's first! I think Rimmel is the superior product and much, much more affordable!! I am looking forward to trying out the other Scandaleyes colors--if the texture and wear time are the same as the nude one then I don't see any reason to try more expensive eyeliners. I'll be finishing up my Nars Rue Bonaparte, but after that I don't see a reason to repurchase it now that there is such a fantastic dupe! I promise you won't be disappointed!</div>
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Have you tried a nude eyeliner on the waterline? How about the new Rimmel Scandaleyes eyeliners??</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-13957862645652771562013-02-25T20:03:00.002-05:002013-02-25T21:05:45.648-05:00Berry All Over Monochromatic LookHey guys! For todays FOTD I ended up with a pretty monochromatic look all in the berry color family! Berry blush, lips, and eyes! I started out playing with Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Amethyst, a warm mauve color with gold shimmer--it sort of inspired the rest of the products I used!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWVlcoSVJgWZqUyOjsk6XDyVyOrMjr7XijE81X3DDyKU4BNuKyh36S-7cU3sy_LirQ1q8szVYBtXx2tN8f8n1_sqFFUr0mTJPWrHJbaGj0LiqlCql9dfPv93gLlez7o1KFpJ1rGGeJ-Y4/s1600/DSCN7849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWVlcoSVJgWZqUyOjsk6XDyVyOrMjr7XijE81X3DDyKU4BNuKyh36S-7cU3sy_LirQ1q8szVYBtXx2tN8f8n1_sqFFUr0mTJPWrHJbaGj0LiqlCql9dfPv93gLlez7o1KFpJ1rGGeJ-Y4/s640/DSCN7849.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura Mercier Amethyst all over lids, Mac Brown Down in outer-v & crease, Inglot amc shine 30 to highlight browbone</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k5W0JYIyzsI/USwFiWgMuKI/AAAAAAAABmE/OchT-R6fcGo/s1600/DSCN7864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k5W0JYIyzsI/USwFiWgMuKI/AAAAAAAABmE/OchT-R6fcGo/s640/DSCN7864.JPG" width="414" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b>Face:</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Garnier Anti-Dark Circle Eye Rollerball</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Maybelline Dream Matte Powder</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Nars Sin Blush</div>
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Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Pearl on cheekbones</div>
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Anastasia Bold & Beautiful Brow Kit</div>
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<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Nars Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Amethyst</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Mac Brown Down</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Sephora Collection 12HR wear liquid eyeliner in Glitter Brown</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Estee Lauder Sumptuous Mascara (HATED this mascara. Luckily it was a free mini gift with purchase! lol!)</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
Revlon Lip Butter in Berry Smoothie</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
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I hope you like this look! Do you ever do monochromatic looks that use mainly one kind of color? I'm getting a haircut tomorrow so next time you see me my locks will be much more tame! lol!</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-35411151331102718912013-02-22T10:52:00.001-05:002013-02-27T00:04:26.771-05:00Anastasia Beverly Hills Bold & Beautiful Kit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I thought I'd show you the Anastasia Beverly Hills Spring 2013 offering, the Bold and Beautiful Kit! If you like neutral shades and defined, groomed brows then this would be a great kit to check out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbgdTDhpPCn4DAAlVS5xxaF1ut8jt9J9SxwMGexG_2fy9joL5PxMqE8uHnd27r1wI1nNfYWqPXj43lcR2kIfzNAAmkaTvWBobk6Sg19_BEY_NoK26JrSBq6lu0UmYvNIexyxveN9_7PY/s1600/DSCN7612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbgdTDhpPCn4DAAlVS5xxaF1ut8jt9J9SxwMGexG_2fy9joL5PxMqE8uHnd27r1wI1nNfYWqPXj43lcR2kIfzNAAmkaTvWBobk6Sg19_BEY_NoK26JrSBq6lu0UmYvNIexyxveN9_7PY/s640/DSCN7612.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Very nice, simple packaging presented like a two box set--one set is for the brows, the second is for the eyes. I love that the palettes are nice and thin but I do think there is a lot of empty cardboard space. If they made them even smaller it would be even more convenient for travel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfea-9bLxA6sfvdDRV1XBQ3QMnH4HA64d1wxGdQnZO9OLahqw5J70RxCwsetSylfffHAohOSwuBWIG_MClKMgH8NH9FDowHHnD-x4tzrCXEbcTvyLS8if28W0kaSCIW1WZXEiVLS0KeA/s1600/DSCN7605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfea-9bLxA6sfvdDRV1XBQ3QMnH4HA64d1wxGdQnZO9OLahqw5J70RxCwsetSylfffHAohOSwuBWIG_MClKMgH8NH9FDowHHnD-x4tzrCXEbcTvyLS8if28W0kaSCIW1WZXEiVLS0KeA/s640/DSCN7605.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The brow set comes with a waxy brown shade on the left and a cool toned ashy taupe brow powder. The pomade holds the brows in really nicely, does not come out too dark and is lightly pigmented so it is buildable--i think if your brows are not too light or too dark it would work nicely. The brow gel works a bit better for holding very unruly brows in place, but if you only need a little bit of hold, the pomade is perfect! I really like the powder too--I thought it might be a little too cool toned but in combination with the pomade (which is slightly warmer) it works really well with my brow color! I LOVE the mini set of tweezers. They work great and are super easy to travel with! Lastly there is the angled brush with a spoolie that does the job well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtd7CWiy3MvBVl4D2nx5KibMd7Y_H_OwQV37HNOzmTLbtp1-dMW18iZnVMbE_j_1zMWmm9Ye0yX3NF_QRjUZfDMt-BTV6Mh05RdskTbyM9yRIG0XCc6hO77-fvLRwJobfYg0zDs7Xpgg/s1600/DSCN7609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtd7CWiy3MvBVl4D2nx5KibMd7Y_H_OwQV37HNOzmTLbtp1-dMW18iZnVMbE_j_1zMWmm9Ye0yX3NF_QRjUZfDMt-BTV6Mh05RdskTbyM9yRIG0XCc6hO77-fvLRwJobfYg0zDs7Xpgg/s640/DSCN7609.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R eyeshadows, then Nars Mekong, then the brow pomade and powder </td></tr>
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The eyeshadow set comes with 4 shades. They don't have specific names but it has: a light matte nude/peach, a shimmery peachy, a medium brown with subtle gold glitter (the glitter didn't translate on the eye), and lastly a very, very dark cocoa brown with copper colored glitter. I thought the peach color could be a little bit more pigmented (like <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/updated-inglot-eyeshadows-even-more.html">Inglot 407</a>!) since it applied more sheerly on the eye. The last shade is incredibly pigmented and when I saw the color I immediately thought of Nars Mekong. As you can see in the above photo, the Anastasia color is a much more blackened brown and I looove it! I think it's a nice combination of colors--they fit very nicely together though it would have been nice if they included another cooler color (since the peachy color is so warm and many people may not like orange tones on the eyes!). The pigmentation is nice, but not the most buttery I've ever tried. The standout for me is definitely the rich, sparkly blackened cocoa brown color! I can't say it is the most unique eyeshadow palette, but if you don't have colors like these already it would be a nice addition to your collection!<br />
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The set is $36 and available now at <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/anastasia-beverly-hills-bold-beautiful-kit/3444436">Nordstrom</a>, & <a href="http://www.anastasia.net/Bold-and-Beautiful-Kit.html">Anastasia </a>but will be available at Sephora and Ulta soon! I think this kit is a great buy, especially if you love brows and neutrals. What would be even better is if you could buy just one half of the kit for half the price--mostly because I am in love with the brow kit and have been using it nonstop! I have too many eyeshadows for my own good!<br />
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What do you think of the Bold & Beautiful Kit?! Is this something you would use?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 14px;">Disclaimer: The product was sent to me by Anastasia Beverly Hills PR to review for free. I am not affiliated with Anastasia Beverly Hills, nor am I paid at all to endorse their products. My views are completely honest and influenced by my personal experience only. </span><br />
<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-19245570431974392092013-02-17T12:20:00.001-05:002013-02-17T12:21:32.752-05:00New L'oreal Colour Caresse Shine Stains ReviewHi everyone! You may know from my post about YSL Glossy stains (<a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/ysl-glossy-rouge-pur-couture-vernis.html">HERE</a>) that they are my absolute favorite lip product. I love everything about them--the staying power, the formula, the colors...The only thing I hate is the high price point. At $32 per glossy stain, they don't come cheap. So I was completely ecstatic when it was rumored that the new L'oreal Colour Caresse Shine Stains were a possible dupe for them! I picked up 4 for way less than the price of one glossy stain. I thought I'd share some swatches and my thoughts on them with you!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3d7zkriwKlq59Wr9WG7yUAb9srXNMEG7kPPgvhw5hEYlwPd0znBUwPIw5ZxTifo0Ri8_IzWZQTkLbWgFhTsllRCF7-u8GUuMb1Wg-zoHsaSHur5sXeftaf5OrDI3waZTEIu-1exei66I/s1600/DSCN7484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3d7zkriwKlq59Wr9WG7yUAb9srXNMEG7kPPgvhw5hEYlwPd0znBUwPIw5ZxTifo0Ri8_IzWZQTkLbWgFhTsllRCF7-u8GUuMb1Wg-zoHsaSHur5sXeftaf5OrDI3waZTEIu-1exei66I/s640/DSCN7484.JPG" width="554" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: Endless Red, Coral Tattoo, Pink Resistance, Berry Persistant</td></tr>
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The gold packaging is really nice--obviously not as luxurious looking as the YSL glossy stains, but I do like the packaging. I really like that you can see the color on the side as well. In the photo below you can see that the applicator is quite similar too. They both have a slightly pointed padded doefoot applicator. The YSL ones is a bit more angular so it does allow you to be more precise when applying--but the L'oreal one is easy enough to use as well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjksBaTuXffUGjRJ4Ux8zkSN60IO5gsmtZnHY4q1raGsfFxgPNubEX7xkYdbe8O26l2yGvTH6LoyMuqxGZ7K7LPpAg6UUIW_F-a-JswHo8r5piRpRnwivpmPhONzA5XfMBr1iXMC1DzF8E/s1600/DSCN7426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjksBaTuXffUGjRJ4Ux8zkSN60IO5gsmtZnHY4q1raGsfFxgPNubEX7xkYdbe8O26l2yGvTH6LoyMuqxGZ7K7LPpAg6UUIW_F-a-JswHo8r5piRpRnwivpmPhONzA5XfMBr1iXMC1DzF8E/s640/DSCN7426.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The similar applicators side by side</td></tr>
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Formula wise, I think the L'oreal ones are very close! They both have that watery consistency that gets tacky after a few moments on the lips. Pigmentation wise the YSL ones are definitely more pigmented and saturated in color on the first swipe while the L'oreal ones take at least two to four layers on the lips to build up the pigmentation. In comparison to YSL, the glossy stains did last longer and they also looked glossier for longer too.You can see in the swatches below that I chose three brighter colors and one light peachy, pink color---Pink Resistance took more layering than the others and did not stain for as long. The bright colors did last a really long time on my lips, especially Coral Tattoo. When looking at the L'oreal ones, since there is such an array of colors, I would definitely recommend going for the brighter colors since they stain better--I've read that the light, pale colors are sheerer and do not stain nearly as well.<br />
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Some more pronounced differences I noticed: the L'oreal ones make my lips feel a bit dryer than the YSL ones do. I actually don't have an issue with the YSL ones at all--but the L'oreal ones are a little drying for me. Lucky for me I am a lip balm addict so I always have them on me--I always apply a generous amount to my lips after the L'oreal shine stains wear off. Additionally, the smells are slightly different. They both smell like versions of boozy fruit to me--but the L'oreal ones smell much stronger and more floral--and not as good in my opinion. It does disappear after a while and while i'm not usually a picky scent person, I can definitely say it's not my favorite. One last noticeable difference: I noticed the stain that is left behind by the L'oreal glosses looked a little patchy as it faded away, something the YSL stains do not do. For the first 2 hours though, the L'oreal ones look great!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDk7qG_GEeIZQ0QqFM8xhN2X-xw4Qemh0IJVe5QgZVlzVvDIGy-mC_AmGlH-POtll85Z4RxuzL696vNQ-LiRw2SKw63J2OwcXBo2naIii5UBA7JboX53AGAnUelBNDQ8pvv1LQ-BPEJ8/s1600/DSCN7428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDk7qG_GEeIZQ0QqFM8xhN2X-xw4Qemh0IJVe5QgZVlzVvDIGy-mC_AmGlH-POtll85Z4RxuzL696vNQ-LiRw2SKw63J2OwcXBo2naIii5UBA7JboX53AGAnUelBNDQ8pvv1LQ-BPEJ8/s640/DSCN7428.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: YSL GS #9, L'oreal Endless Red, YSL GS #12, L'oreal Coral Tattoo, L'oreal Pink Resistance, L'oreal Berry Persistant</td></tr>
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The colors I got were:<br />
<u>190 Endless Red</u>: a bright neutral leaning warm red. This color is a fantastic dupe for YSL Glossy Stain #9, with YSL leaning slightly more warm.<br />
<u>188 Coral Tattoo:</u> a bright orange. I thought it would be a little more similar to YSL glossy stain #12 when swatched but they're completely different. #12 is a pinky coral wheras L'oreal is straightforward orange. I wonder how similar it would be to Glossy Stain #8 though!?<br />
<u>183 Pink Resistance</u>: a light peachy pink--a nice everyday color but it is on the sheerer side in comparison to the brighter colors--you do have to layer it more to show up. Also, it's not quite pink like the name says--it definitely turns coral on me!<br />
<u>186 Berry Persistent</u>: a dark purple that dries down to a vampy purple/wine color on the lips<br />
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One thing I really like about having the L'oreal dupes available is that I can try out colors that I don't want to pay the YSL prices for. I like that I can try colors like Coral Tattoo and Berry Persistant (two colors that I love but don't wear as often as pinks and reds and corals) at a low price point. I would feel guilty splurging on YSL counterparts if I knew I wasn't going to wear the colors as often and get my money's worth.<br />
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Ever since I got the YSL glossy stains I really have been wearing them nonstop. They are my favorite lip formula to wear and I know I will get more in the future. L'oreal is great, but I honestly I do prefer my YSL ones. The formula wears slightly longer, is more comfortable and less drying on the lips, and the pigmentation in general is a bit better. That being said, I do really appreciate the L'oreal Colour Caresse shine stains. I think they are an excellent dupe and it will allow many people who are weary of the $32 YSL price tag to try out a fantastic and unique lip formula. If I were to look at the L'oreal product alone without comparing it to YSL I would still say it's an exceptional drugstore product. There is a bit of truth to "you get what you pay for"--it is not an identical dupe, but for the low price, you shouldn't expect it to be the exact same. Both are worth checking out!<br />
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You can find the L'oreal Colour Caresse Shine Stains at any drugstore--and because of that, you can probably find them on a promotion too! Let me know what you think in the comments--have you tried the Colour Caresse Shine Stains and YSL glossy stains?? What are your thoughts on how they compare??Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-29841572958514361342013-02-13T15:43:00.000-05:002013-02-13T15:43:11.781-05:00Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ever since I got my first Maybelline Color Tattoos back in February of last year (see my initial review <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/02/maybelline-color-tattoo-24-hour.html">HERE</a>!) I have added a few more to my collection. I love using them alone as a wash of color or as a colored base for my powder eyeshadows. One of my favorite colors I have gotten is one I'm showing you today-- Bad to the Bronze! It is such a nice shimmery neutral, I find myself using it all the time!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx_uDJDLyvz46homot3dFCv0PpWfNZsTkJgVJgN-smQYgrtGD5MOdGaUCYJ7yY6CdUsOPgEu7mOEyF4bwdcBDcbZvoJpWOjhEFpi3Q_U8V__q5hhUQRQHXqQkVP-xWr30Z3U1kOpl6ZA/s1600/DSCN7155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFx_uDJDLyvz46homot3dFCv0PpWfNZsTkJgVJgN-smQYgrtGD5MOdGaUCYJ7yY6CdUsOPgEu7mOEyF4bwdcBDcbZvoJpWOjhEFpi3Q_U8V__q5hhUQRQHXqQkVP-xWr30Z3U1kOpl6ZA/s640/DSCN7155.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I mentioned before, these don't quite last like tattoos on my eyelids. They crease awfully on their own but work amazing over an eyeshadow primer! Keep in mind they may not crease for you--I just have annoyingly oily eyelids :) The texture on this one is creamy and very blendable---I actually find it to be the best texture (the creamiest!) of all the tattoos I own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKr-6FZ4vp3tOZXzuWFGdehZVjtcNqYT7mBZ9Phw4r_PTvm0R2Ah9YyJPFaMdB8vi-9L2VcHzZ4jDKEdBlkQg22XXLi6LerLNoAlgdaU4aDrcZdQGAqwD4dxqz22qTQl8E3WJCsvPrx6U/s1600/DSCN7159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKr-6FZ4vp3tOZXzuWFGdehZVjtcNqYT7mBZ9Phw4r_PTvm0R2Ah9YyJPFaMdB8vi-9L2VcHzZ4jDKEdBlkQg22XXLi6LerLNoAlgdaU4aDrcZdQGAqwD4dxqz22qTQl8E3WJCsvPrx6U/s640/DSCN7159.JPG" width="560" /></a></div>
The color is a taupey-bronze. It is not like a traditional bronze with warm, golden undertones. It is more of a taupe with a hint of bronze. I love the color and think it would be flattering on sooo many skin tones! I seriously can't get enough of it--it looks beautiful on its own and I use it all the time under neutral looks.<br />
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I believe they retail for around $6 but you will have to check your local drugstores for exact prices. As always, you can always get a good deal at drugstores through frequent sales and various reward programs (hello CVS Extracare bucks!!).<br />
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Have you tried the Maybelline color tattoos? I am becoming more and more impressed by Maybelline products lately! I have a powder and a mascara I have tried recently and I love them both!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-56288983932244939442013-02-09T11:10:00.000-05:002013-02-27T00:54:52.892-05:00Pink Resistance and a Goldy-Purple Eye<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Here's another look of the day! It was one of those days where I didn't know what I wanted to wear and I just kind of piled on shadows and ended with a sort of light gold and dark purple combination. I also played around with the new L'oreal colour caresse shine stain in pink resistance--it gave a really nice pink color after a couple of layers though it was a bit drying after a few hours.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nars Rajasthan on lid, Hourglass Exhibition dark purple in outer-v, Mac Wedge in crease, Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Amethyst on lower waterline<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUtYac6jBnU/UQdR1VDKGOI/AAAAAAAABiE/ZPpEyBSlaPU/s1600/DSCN7585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUtYac6jBnU/UQdR1VDKGOI/AAAAAAAABiE/ZPpEyBSlaPU/s640/DSCN7585.JPG" width="408" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b>Face:</b></span></div>
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Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Translucent powder</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch Concealer</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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Estee Lauder Pure Color Blush in Lover's Blush</div>
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Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Pearl on cheekbones</div>
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Anastasia Brow Powder in Brunette</div>
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Anastasia Brow Gel, Clear</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Nars Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Mac Brule, Wedge</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Hourglass Exhibition (dark right side)</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Nars Rajasthan (taupe side)</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in Amethyst on waterline</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Lancome Hypnose Drama</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
L'oreal Colour Caresse Shine Stain in Pink Resistance</div>
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Thanks you so much for reading!! Additionally, any thoughts on Coconut Oil? I've been using it as a hair treatment and I absolutely adore it!! I'm curious what are some of your favorite ways to use it?</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-19956975357561034492013-02-04T19:19:00.000-05:002013-02-04T19:19:02.380-05:00Zoya ToniHey guys!<br />
I'm back with yet another Zoya polish-- Toni! A little while ago I was fortunate enough to win a Zoya giveaway hosted by the lovely Kristina at <a href="http://sasquatchswatch.blogspot.com/">SasquatchSwatch</a>! I was sent two colors (Toni & Natty) from the Zoya 2012 Designers Collection. As you may know from reading my blog, Zoya is my favorite brand for nail polish, so I was absolutely ecstatic to get two more to add to my growing collection! I took a quick picture of it on Instagram so you could see what a pretty color it is:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI67NODrIGCGJe9tO83gkvcrsY26z74FJKQnANItLKSCy9VEYD7dSvYuqyvaMJY83hyphenhyphenZm19-EORDb_1BAKHCEqoAmsEQ-hFGKM_xz_rSdbRWhCXI8zrKLUmJ4HyKsdRwMAzppFBta5Mo/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI67NODrIGCGJe9tO83gkvcrsY26z74FJKQnANItLKSCy9VEYD7dSvYuqyvaMJY83hyphenhyphenZm19-EORDb_1BAKHCEqoAmsEQ-hFGKM_xz_rSdbRWhCXI8zrKLUmJ4HyKsdRwMAzppFBta5Mo/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Toni is a dark, berry wine color. It's a beautiful cream finish and is perfectly opaque in two coats. The finish is glossy though it looks even more so in the photo because I have nailtiques over the top of it.<br />
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I couldn't recommend Zoya polishes enough--Toni is yet another lovely one! If you're interested in any of my other Zoya posts, you can check <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/04/zoya-share-love.html">HERE</a>---on that post you can also read my summary of Zoya's Share the Love points program (yet another reason why I love Zoya--they are always having great promotions!).<br />
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What do you think of Zoya Toni? Have you taken advantage of any of the Zoya promotions they've had in the past few months?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-57941345976107215282013-01-31T10:26:00.001-05:002013-02-01T02:26:18.104-05:00YSL Glossy Rouge Pur Couture Vernis À Lèvres Glossy Stains Review & SwatchesHey guys!! So I played around with my blog background and layout--what do you think? New year new design :)<br />
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Today I thought I'd talk about one of my favorite lip products of all time, the YSL Glossy Stains. Literally, of all time. They are magical. I'm sure you beauty lovers have either tried or heard all about them, but I thought I would my two cents on an amazing product!<br />
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The ysl glossy stains are an innovative lip product that combines that pigmentation of a rich lipstick with the shine of a gloss and the longevity of a stain. Basically, it is a super lip product and delivers beautifully on all three aspects. One coat gives you a lovely tint, a second yields even more color and shine, and a third (my ideal) delivers the ultimate opaque, glossy lip! The glossy stains last longer than any lip product I have ever tried--and they look better for longer. I get really amazing wear from them--they last about 5-6 hours on my lips with the bulk of the time staying shiny.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such incredibly gorgeous, luxurious packaging!</td></tr>
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The texture is also different from anything else and took some time to get used to. Hopefully I can describe it well but it feels like kind of watery and thickens and becomes more tacky after a few moments as the stain settles. The tackiness goes away after a little while but it does take getting used to. I also love the applicator--the cushiony pad makes it easy to go back and forth over the lips to really rub the color into your lips and the pointy tip makes it easy to crease sharp edges.</div>
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Pigmentation wise I can only really vouch for the 6 colors that I have. I've found that the darker and brighter colors have excellent, buildable to opaque color. There are a few pale colors though that I have heard do not show up on the lips very well--I haven't tried them though since I went for the bold colors. I would guess that if your lips are less pigmented they may work well for you though. I've actually found that the color darkens a considerable amount on your lips, so what you see in the bottle will most likely look a bit more dramatic on the lips.Another thing to add is the scent--it is like boozy fruit. It's a unique smell for a lip product but I kind of like it--it goes away after a few minutes but if you are sensitive to smells it is something to consider before buying.<br />
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The colors I got, from left to right:</div>
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#5 Rouge Vintage: mauvey berry rose</div>
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#9 Rouge Laque: bright warm-neutral red</div>
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#10 Rouge Philtre: deeper almost berry toned red. it is a darker red than #9 and not as warm.</div>
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#11 Rouge Gouache: bright fuchsia red</div>
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#12 Coril Fauve: warm coral</div>
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#15 Rose Vinyl: slightly cool toned medium rosey pink</div>
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I'm wearing #12 in this post <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/08/purple-and-orange-sorbet.html">here</a>, #5 <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/cranberry-look-with-glasses-fotd.html">here</a> and #9 <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/ysl-glossy-stain-soft-matte-eye.html">here</a>! You can bet you'll be seeing many more FOTD's with them in the future :)</div>
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With the $32 price tag they certainly don't come cheap. The bargain buyer in me could not justify buying them until I got a gift card a few months after they came out. After trying them, they are absolutely worth every penny. I hate to admit this but in the last 6 months I have pretty much only worn glossy stains (give or take a few days where I gave love to some other products). They are just so effortless and I don't have to worry about touching them up throughout the day (something I pretty much never do). Aaaand they look amazing on the lips, obviously!.</div>
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Definitely check them out the next time you're at a Sephora or a department store that sells YSL! You won't regret it! For a less expensive alternative the L'oreal Colour Caresse Shine Stainst that just came out this past month are a worthy drugstore dupe. I prefer the YSL ones more but you are certainly getting a similar and quality product for under $10!! Review on those to come very soon!<br />
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Just some helpful links where you can find the glossy stains in the US! All of these places have some sort of promotion during the year!<br />
<a href="http://www.sephora.com/rouge-pur-couturevernis-a-levres-glossy-stain-P304003">Sephora</a><br />
<a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/yves-saint-laurent-rouge-pur-couture-vernis-a-levres-glossy-stain/3276140?pprd=0">Nordstrom</a><br />
<a href="http://www.yslbeautyus.com/Rouge-Pur-Couture-Vernis-a-Levres-Glossy-Stain/1020YSL,default,pd.html?dwvar_1020YSL_color=3%20Brun%20Cachemire">Yves Saint Laurent</a><br />
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Thoughts on YSL Glossy stains!? Have you tried them?!</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-5577348391559592112013-01-26T20:00:00.000-05:002013-01-26T20:00:03.608-05:00YSL Glossy Stain & A Soft Matte EyeThis is a breakdown of the look I posted in my Firmoo Glasses Review--feel free to read that <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/firmoo-glasses-review.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">here</span></a>! I've been really loving doing all matte eye looks with very glowy skin and a glossy lip. I paired various matte brown eyeshadows with YSL Glossy Stain #9--an incredibly beautiful red. Because I kept the eye matte, combining a soft smokey eye with a bright lip worked well instead of competing--a heavy eye and bold lip can sometimes be too much makeup for me on a typical day!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Buck on lid, Mac Wedge in Crease, Inglot 327 in outer-v</td></tr>
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I also have been using an eyelash curler a lot more lately. It's always a step I forget to do when doing my makeup, but I love the eye opening effect when I do remember to use it!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5B-iVRJlGsk/UQH9SUtvrxI/AAAAAAAABhI/XSl23thToU8/s1600/DSCN7545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5B-iVRJlGsk/UQH9SUtvrxI/AAAAAAAABhI/XSl23thToU8/s640/DSCN7545.JPG" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
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<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b><u>Products:</u></b></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b>Face:</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat B30</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Laura Mercier Translucent powder</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch Concealer--<u>thoughts on this??</u> I've been liking my sample but it is definitely a splurge item!!</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 22px;">Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer</span></span></b></span></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Tipsy</div>
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Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Pearl on cheekbones</div>
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Anastasia Brow Powder in Brunette</div>
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Anastasia Brow Gel, Clear</div>
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<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Eyes:</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Mac Painterly Paint Pot</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Urban Decay Buck (from the Naked 1 Palette)</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Inglot 327</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Mac Wedge & Femme Fi (to highlight)</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
NYX Eye Pencil in 928 Velvet on lower waterline</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Maybelline Full & Soft Mascara</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;"><b>Lips:</b></span><br />
YSL Glossy Stain in #9, Rouge Laque</div>
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<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
What kind of makeup have you been wearing lately?!</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-62865726677718469562013-01-24T15:44:00.001-05:002013-01-27T22:52:09.276-05:00Firmoo Glasses ReviewIt's funny--I start getting back into blogging and already in one month I have two posts about glasses lol! A little while ago I was contacted by Antonio from an online glasses company called <a href="http://www.firmoo.com/">Firmoo</a> to see if I would like to try out a complimentary pair of glasses or sunglasses. He told me their goal was to spread the word on buying glasses online--something that many people have never tried or even considered trying (myself included!). They want to offer glasses that are fashionable yet affordable. They said I could give an honest review, so I jumped at the opportunity (how could I say no to a free pair of prescription glasses?).<br />
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I am definitely a newbie to the world of glasses. I have a pretty light prescription and don't need to wear them all the time--in the past 4 or 5 years since I got a prescription I have only owned two pairs of glasses. Initially I was pretty overwhelmed by the amount of choices. They had a lot of different types--full framed, rimless, plastic, metal, etc. On the Firmoo website they also have a feature where you can upload a picture of yourself and "try them on." I actually thought this function was pretty useful--although nothing replaces the visual accuracy of trying glasses on in person, this certainly helped. They also have a <a href="http://plus.firmoo.com/">Firmoo+</a> community where people have uploaded pictures of themselves in firmoo glasses--I thought that was a great idea so you can see the glasses on all types of face shapes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaWVQRpDQWGKxlVhYdaXeLAysw4-dTdYG3uTNEqCKWisTWYbaRhRI3t-jFpLJl53haeyKAJSD7inXUHKc6il6TfXBvjrl_QKuaqrhkHs3yHwI4ydPYLC-eC2MzW3ZSZdBWVTL6rdriGg/s1600/DSCN7569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaWVQRpDQWGKxlVhYdaXeLAysw4-dTdYG3uTNEqCKWisTWYbaRhRI3t-jFpLJl53haeyKAJSD7inXUHKc6il6TfXBvjrl_QKuaqrhkHs3yHwI4ydPYLC-eC2MzW3ZSZdBWVTL6rdriGg/s640/DSCN7569.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I decided to try something really different from what I would normally go for--I chose slightly nerdy, squarish oversized black frames. You can check them out<a href="http://www.firmoo.com/eyeglasses-p-1205.html"> here</a>. I was scared they would be too big but I actually like them--I think the size and overall look is fun. Maybe they're not the most flattering but they're fun I do have to make sure my eye makeup is done nicely (with mascara, liner, and a bright undereye) or it makes my eyes look small though lol!<br />
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Quality wise they are surprisingly nice for the $29 price tag. There is some difference in quality between my firmoo glasses and my Ray-Bans that I currently wear (see <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2013/01/cranberry-look-with-glasses-fotd.html">here</a>). My Ray-Bans just have more detail to them and the hinges seem to be a little stronger. Firmoo's glasses also seem to be made with a thinner plastic. Honestly though I could definitely see ordering from Firmoo again--for the price the quality is great and my prescription was correct too. I'm hoping that they will hold up well in the long run.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNDE2kpeytg/UQIJUq1c24I/AAAAAAAABhg/lQZd-IBxLHc/s1600/DSCN7564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNDE2kpeytg/UQIJUq1c24I/AAAAAAAABhg/lQZd-IBxLHc/s640/DSCN7564.JPG" width="454" /></a></div>
The delivery time was really good--it took less than a week for the glasses to get to me. I believe the glasses were sent from China based on the tracking website. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was that the glasses, although in a hard shell case, were stuffed into small bubble wrap mailer. Although they were undamaged, I thought it could have done with another wrapping of bubble wrap or even better, a small box. The envelope looked rather smushed when I found it in my mailbox. I also wanted to say that the extras included were a nice surprise-- they included a hard shell case, a cloth, an additional soft case, and (I was most excited about this) a little mini screwdriver so I can tighten the hinges.<br />
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If you're a first time customer you can get your first pair of glasses for free--you only pay shipping. You can get more details on that promotion <a href="http://www.firmoo.com/free-glasses.html">HERE</a>. You can't choose the pricier sunglasses or the designer glasses--and I do believe you would have to pay for any extra add-ons. You can order them with or without a prescription. Lucky for me I just went to the optometrist a few months ago so I was all set! If you do need prescription glasses, just make sure you have your RX on hand. Overall, I had a great experience with firmoo and would definitely recommend them. Being able to buy nice glasses at a low cost point really allows you to play around more!<br />
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Thank you so much Firmoo for allowing me to review a pair of your glasses! If any of you do end up using Firmoo, do let me know--I'd love to see what frames you chose!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 14px;">Disclaimer: The product was sent to me by Firmoo to review for free. I am not affiliated with Firmoo, nor am I paid at all to endorse their products. My views are completely honest and influenced by my personal experience only.</span>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1307100460916667179.post-72257967831858320082013-01-17T13:37:00.000-05:002013-02-01T02:21:25.383-05:00Anastasia Beverly Hills 2012 Holiday Sets:Swatches & Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I know I know---it's halfway through January and I'm only now touching on some holiday stuff. I've had these Anastasia Beverly Hills Holiday sets for about two months and I've really enjoyed playing with them. I didn't have time to do much blogging before the holidays so unfortunately I couldn't get this post up when they first came out. I have seen them on the Anastasia website though (<a href="http://www.anastasia.net/home.php"><b>here</b></a>) so you may still be able to get ahold of them!</div>
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First up is the "Kisses On My List" lipgloss set.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXic2GE6_PiidJBVNOV7e1y_cw3XgeY-dKkoKnaDFQjpENQcj7HVfsTE2ermZkPJqawV7k4YPC1e6qMO_Q_oSkmdHSHFlsW2wMpmwul-RqwDNmDZEWCVR9zoBj0p0IWSQPMFD-Yoocbc/s1600/DSCN7500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXic2GE6_PiidJBVNOV7e1y_cw3XgeY-dKkoKnaDFQjpENQcj7HVfsTE2ermZkPJqawV7k4YPC1e6qMO_Q_oSkmdHSHFlsW2wMpmwul-RqwDNmDZEWCVR9zoBj0p0IWSQPMFD-Yoocbc/s640/DSCN7500.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQul3pst9UdKybhD1ScLLGxmMfEZu1B1Vm6LVZDTA1gHfb5BwdYcx9UcQFNiKkOn8qUsXQJXZBHJpK0KtF_peEKD7dWeonHJsyjtX3Osm-f-rG7St_bG7c9SjvPyHH20NeS_NZG5Um5E/s1600/DSCN7502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQul3pst9UdKybhD1ScLLGxmMfEZu1B1Vm6LVZDTA1gHfb5BwdYcx9UcQFNiKkOn8qUsXQJXZBHJpK0KtF_peEKD7dWeonHJsyjtX3Osm-f-rG7St_bG7c9SjvPyHH20NeS_NZG5Um5E/s640/DSCN7502.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: Jolene, Sharona, Roxanne, Lola, Maggie May, Moi</td></tr>
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These are the 6 closses included in the kit. It contains three Hyperfull Glosses, Sharona, Maggie May, & Moi. These are supposed to be hydrating and on the sheer side. I however found that all of the lipglosses were pretty pigmented and could easily be worn alone.<br />
The other three, Jolene, Roxanne, & Lola are the Hypercolor glosses---they are supposed to "react with your skin's chemistry to stain your lips a custom hue that is all your own."They certainly stain the lips though they stain to a similar color in the tube--just slightly deeper. Overall, I absolutely love these glosses--and that is definitely saying something because I have definitely become a lipstick/lip stain girl over the past two years. The formula is super hydrating and very comfortable on the lips, longwearing, and the colors are SO pretty. Only thing I don't love is the spatula like applicator (which I complained about before in this post <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/06/anastasia-beverly-hills-see-be-seen-kit.html">here)</a>. Hopefully they will change them in the future because they don't make applying the gloss very easy.<br />
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Jolene: shimmery light pink<br />
Sharona: Warm, shimmery, golden peach. I can see wearing this a ton in the summer with coral blush.<br />
Roxanne: peachy coral shimmer. Sort of like Nars Orgasm in lipgloss form.<br />
Lola: cool toned barbie pink. To make this one work I need to put it over a warmer lipstick!<br />
Maggie May: light pinky, milky nude. the perfect compliment to a smokey eye!<br />
Moi: Creamy rose--i love this one, perfect for everyday!<br />
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The next set is the "Want You To Want Me" which contains a palette that fits perfect in the size of your palm, a liquid eyeliner, a mini dual ended brush, and a mini clear brow gel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPI4nt9oDBCQfqV-gGKBB06WnjoDADPVPI86m-jddnLg1UmkPZ-jOztrei_UzgABcY6pZhO76RYjdSH4Eq0r-Jh239E0e0auu4RQNeL6Cr8lTTeK4nIQcDJvvLcZCnh-2Gk26MCuKNoWA/s1600/DSCN7506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPI4nt9oDBCQfqV-gGKBB06WnjoDADPVPI86m-jddnLg1UmkPZ-jOztrei_UzgABcY6pZhO76RYjdSH4Eq0r-Jh239E0e0auu4RQNeL6Cr8lTTeK4nIQcDJvvLcZCnh-2Gk26MCuKNoWA/s640/DSCN7506.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm a newbie when it comes to liquid eyeliner but I have really enjoyed playing with this one. The applicator is very thin, yet easy to use and you can get a perfectly skinny line along your lid. Perfect for winging out your liner. You can see a swatch of the liner in the picture below, all the way to the right.</div>
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Next, I was SO excited they included a clear brow gel in this set---in the last set I tried <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/06/anastasia-beverly-hills-see-be-seen-kit.html">HERE</a>, it included a brow gel in the wrong color for my hair---the one thing I wished for that kit was for it to include clear brow gel, that way anyone can use it! Good choice, Anastasia! The brow gel is perfect--keeps my brows in place and does not get flaky or stiff. I will definitely repurchase when I finish it up!</div>
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Here's the swatches for the little palette:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwwbUzrCCDh1rVYZqViKqBRetHUi3F3_Tj4OWnrxMSpUmCUVUVn-us5sVL3M3W56fmuSB00MHla9hzec-QUIszmNVtTc7S88JpHsH-UW19L_xQ4RtCwYnX1wLzmwWUTV185d4Sy1_TVb0/s1600/DSCN7514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwwbUzrCCDh1rVYZqViKqBRetHUi3F3_Tj4OWnrxMSpUmCUVUVn-us5sVL3M3W56fmuSB00MHla9hzec-QUIszmNVtTc7S88JpHsH-UW19L_xQ4RtCwYnX1wLzmwWUTV185d4Sy1_TVb0/s640/DSCN7514.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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L-R, top to bottom:<br />
Platform Wedge: a great blending color<br />
Front Row Center: peach with silver glitter---not my favorite as it looks slightly gritty<br />
Ziggy: lavender with silver sparkle<br />
Members Only: love this one as crease color. matte.<br />
Power Ballad: buttery smooth taupe<br />
Jellies: smooth pearly pink<br />
Graphict's: Brown sparkly brown--it goes on sheer but built up it's very pretty<br />
Brass in Pocket: warm rose gold--great texture on this one too<br />
Iron On: Sparkly burgandy pink. Beautiful color but if you over blend the sparkles disappear.<br />
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Great choice of colors--it includes mostly neutrals but also has a few pops of purple and pink so give variation to your looks. I did a classic smokey look a few months ago using this palette--you can check that out <a href="http://beautiesinbloom.blogspot.com/2012/09/dewy-and-smokey.html">here</a>! I did notice a fair bit of fall out with some of the colors--especially because there are a few with silver glitter in it. You just have to make sure to tap of your brush really, really well before applying. In all honesty, I do think I prefer most of my Urban Decay, Nars, and Inglot eyeshadows as I find them to be more pigmented and smoother to blend. For the price however, Anastasia is wonderful and the size of the palette is absolutely perfect for travel.<br />
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Regardless if you can get your hands on them or not, these sets just go to show that Anastasia Beverly Hills has really stepped up their makeup game--they are no longer known as an eyebrows only company. Their makeup products are great quality and the sets they have come out with are priced well and contain beautiful colors! The lipgloss set was priced at #30 and the latter at $34--very affordable for all the stuff you get. Of the two sets, my favorite was the lipgloss one just because I absolutely love the formula. Definitely check out their makeup next time you can play at a Sephora or a makeup counter!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 14px;">Disclaimer: The product was sent to me by Anastasia Beverly Hills PR to review for free. I am not affiliated with Anastasia Beverly Hills, nor am I paid at all to endorse their products. My views are completely honest and influenced by my personal experience only. </span>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14935643957486496108noreply@blogger.com9