Life,Style,Logan

The Great Crab Cake Test and Crab Snobbery at Its Best

2011-03-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

I love cooking, and love crab cakes. I also have a ridiculously high standard when it comes to defining what a true "crab cake" is. I went to, lived, and ate too many amazing crab cakes in the Maryland region to not have converted to being a crab cake snob. Crab cakes contain the best jumbo lump crab and the smallest amount of filler (mayo, a little seasoning or a few breadcrumbs) just to hold it together. It's all about the crab. But since I only had one container of jumbo crab in my fridge the other day, I decided to do a test. I tried Barefoot Contessa's (my favorite Food Network personality ever..the woman is FANTASTIC) crab cake recipe which, gasp, is mostly vegetables and filler rather than crab. I needed something that would stretch the crab and make a meal for myself and my very large, hungry boyfriend. While I felt like I was somehow cheating on the entire Baltimore/Chesapeake Bay region, but I did it anyway...

This is how it went...

Chopped a ton of veggies for the cakes

I chopped a ton of veggies for the filling. It included several colors of peppers, celery and red onion.

This was the seasoning for the filling. It included Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, capers and good ol' Old Bay. I also used Panko breadcrumbs (Japanese breadcrumbs that are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs) to replace the white bread you are supposed to use for the filling.

I sauteed the veggies with the seasoning until they were slightly soft, but still crunchy.

Then I added the veggies to this gorgeous Jumbo Lump crab, a little low-fat mayo and the breadcrumbs. I made them into slightly small patties and cooked them in a bit of olive oil.

Here is the recipe if anyone is interested! ---->Crab Cakes And here is the final product along with an arugula salad I put together with a light, fresh lemon vinaigrette (lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, pepper and olive oil)

The result? I liked them. The veggies were crunchy and the seasoning made for a lot of flavor throughout the cake. I have rarely found a Barefoot Contessa recipe that doesn't work. I think these would be especially yummy if you made them super small and served them as an appetizer for a dinner party. I don't really consider these true blue "crab cakes", but I think it's a good option for people trying to stretch expensive crab, people that like a lot of filling with their crab, or even people that would leave the crab out and make a yummy veggie patty. They were very tasty. Just not a true crab cake : )

Make anything yummy recently?

Keeping Lips Kissable...

2011-03-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

I am loving my Korres lip butters right now. Even though we are out of the depths of winter here, it is still cold and my lips are chapped! These soften, moisturize, impart the faintest hint of pretty color and sheen, and taste delicious. I find exfoliating with a lip scrub from Lush (or just a toothbrush) and then putting this on makes my lips lovely and smooth. I have a bunch, but Guava (the white) and Jasmine (the pink) are my favorites.

My Current Love's

2011-03-03T14:01:00.000-08:00

February is now gone (good riddance!) and with March comes a ramping up of spring shopping, wacky weather and new love's (at least of the material kind).

Peacock Earring Stand -from Urban to hold some of my stud earrings. I am a sucker for anything blue, and this has been so helpful putting them on display instead of jumbled in a box.

Nude Manicures-These are two polishes that I picked up in Sephora. I am loving a nude manicure right now, finding the right nude is a problem though! These are pretty good thusfar, but my search continues...

Pop's of Color for Spring-Or the hope of spring at least! This necklace is from GlamourRogue's store on Etsy. Very sweet, easy-to-wear and super affordable! The picture doesn't do it justice, and with a black or other winter clothing, it looks so pretty! Store Here

Navy and White-I think the combination looks so fresh and new for spring, even if there isn't anything new about it. This jacket is a find from H&M and it's adorably nautical and cheery!

Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter-a new product for me from Lush. Works like a charm on rough spots like my cuticles and makes those nude nails look great!

White Jewelry-I know I just wrote about my new bracelet, but white enamel and white jewelry in general looks fresh to me right now. Great for brightening current hopes for warm weather as well as the warm months to come!

Happy March everyone!

Hermes-Need I say more?

2011-02-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

I was home for a root canal last week, and wound up acquiring something far more fabulous and amazing than my time spent in the dentist's chair. It is an item that I have wanted for quite a long time, and in my Christmas pile from my parent's a lovely gift card from Hermes happened to appear! I am a lucky girl!

My gift on Christmas. Gotta love the famous orange bag!

My mom wound up getting one and since my parent's weren't sure which color I wanted, they got me a gift card to pick one out instead. I don't have an Hermes where I live, so when I went home for said root canal last weekend, I hopped up to the Hermes store near my parent's house and picked up this beauty...

I went with the utterly boring choice and got the smaller white one (it comes in a smaller and larger version in both size and width). I was debating between this one and the blue; but since it was my first bracelet I wanted it to go with everything. The white looks beautiful and fresh on the wrist to me. I love it so much. It is the most comfortable bracelet I have ever worn; so much so I often forget it is on my wrist. It's beautiful and lovely, and I hope one day to be able to stack them. What can I say-It's Hermes? Does it get any better than that?

I have been wearing it with my watch

What is your favorite new purchase?

Tagine's, MAC lipstick and Chocolate-Oh my!

2011-02-13T15:47:00.000-08:00

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!

My wonderful boyfriend took me out Saturday for a fabulous meal of oysters, filet mignon, lobster and chocolate. It was delicious! Here is a picture of us before we left. I did a deep side part with sleek, wavy ends by using hot rollers and a little hairspray as well as a red lip (MAC's brave red). I didn't even look like myself, but it was fun to try something new. I found my lipstick stayed throughout the night by using Covergirl's Lip Stain in a red/berry color before putting the lipstick on. It didn't budge through multiple courses and kisses. I was totally amazed as I worried I would be some crazy woman with red all over her face/mouth after scarfing down so much food.

My iphone 4 camera is terrible!

My boyfriend is laughing because he is stooping down to get in the picture (he is 6'6"!) and because he thought it looked like he was taking out another woman. Lol.

Tomorrow, for the actual day, I am cooking a romantic dinner. We are having an arugula salad with goat cheese, figs, oranges, candied walnuts and a citrus vinigarette. For the entree I am making a red-wine braised beef short rib in a new tagine (a traditional Moroccan/North African clay pot used for cooking) from Williams-Sonoma my boyfriend bought me, as well as sour cream and horseradish mashed potatoes to go with it.

Link to the Tagine

This is the tagine from Williams-Sonoma-Pretty, right?!

(www.williams-sonoma.com)

For dessert I am making a hazlenut and chocolate torte with a dark chocolate glaze.

This is the torte I am making!

(www.williams-sonoma.com)

Splurging is what Valentine's Day is all about. Hope you all have a happy one!

New Product Alert:Physician's Formula Mineral Correcting Pebbles

2011-02-10T16:43:00.000-08:00

I'm always such a sucker for cute packaging, and when I was perusing the aisles of my local Rite Aid, it was no exception. These are just so cute! And so similar to the Guerlain ones! And so pretty!

Needless to say, I bought them. Thusfar, I have been happy with them too. It comes with a powder puff and a brush, but I usually set both aside and use a small blush brush, highlighting brush (MAC 192) or a large fluffy eyeshadow brush and swirl away around the pastel, shimmery goodness.

I tried to swatch it, but it wouldn't show up on my hand. It provides a very subtle, soft highlight and shimmer to the skin. I find it to pull a bit pinkish gold/white on my currently very fair skin. I don't find them to be pigmented or life changing; but the glow I get on the top of my cheekbones is a lovely addition to a more muted everyday makeup. I am sensitive to breakouts and the formula says they are talc-free, which I enjoy. I haven't been irritated by them thusfar and it isn't too bright and shimmery for my oily skin. While I wouldn't use it all over my face because I do tend to get shiny, and this is a little frosty for my taste, for about $11, I am happy.

And did I mention they are cute?!

January Favorites

2011-02-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish-This brown sugar scrub is so moisturizing that you don't really even need a body lotion afterwards! It isn't cheap, but it is worth every penny. My dry winter skin thanks this every time I use it.

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Summer Tan-this is a WONDERFUL creamy blush color to use for contour. I think it might do a better job than the Chanel Soliel Tan de Chanel. It's a bit more pigmented and more brown than orange. If you use a skunk brush, it gives anyone cheekbones!

Physician's Formula Happy Booster's Blush-it is more pigmented than I thought and gives a beautiful rosy glow to the cheek. The scent it pretty as well, although I don't buy the ability for it to uplift your mood. Except if you get happy because your cheeks are so pretty!

Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel-One of my first reviews was of the regular strength version of this product because I saw it as one of the products that really helped get rid of my acne. But this one is even better! I would never go back to the regular. The extra strength doesn't irritate but you can actually see it making your skin clearer and more even. My complexion glows after I use this.

Mac Lipstick in Brave Red-despite a fight with my bathroom counter (in which it lost), I do adore this lipstick. I always wear a nude lip, but I went to the MAC counter and was matched with this shade for my brave (no pun intended) move to a bold lip every once in a while. It's the perfect red. Not too orange, not too blue, and not too clown-y (which I always fear I will look like when I wear red with full lips). Love!

January is over, and thank goodness! Hopefully spring is around the corner!

xoxo

Pink and Turquoise, Pink and Turquoise, Pink and Turquoise...

2011-02-02T10:21:00.001-08:00

Pink and Turquoise by loganbhanna featuring straw fedora hats

While I will be rooting for the "black and yellow" on Sunday during the Superbowl, I had to create a beachy styled outfit for a class of mine through Polyvore, and I thought I would share them with you. It is cold and miserable here, and I think the combination between the beautifully juicy and saturated hot pink and the cool, bright turquoise with splashes of gold is a beautiful combination that makes me long for summer and the beach. Stay warm everyone!

What is your favorite summer color combination?

xoxo

January Favorites-Making Waves

2011-01-28T13:23:00.000-08:00

I will be going over my January favorites over the next few days. This is the first. Bear with me, I have a cold that just won't go away!

Wavy Hair-

It is the best remedy for the "my-hair-is-dirty-but-I'm-too-lazy-to-wash-it", and who doesn't experience that feeling every once is a while ? Well I have experienced that feeling too much recently a la my cold and the overall winter blah's, that I decided to go onto the quest of creating the perfect combination of Gisele/Victoria's Secret glamourpuss and vintage/beachy soft waves. This was the result of my first real attempt.

Maybe I should review self-tanner next?! Sorry for the strange combination of flash and lack of human contact due to my refusal to go outside when they tell me it's 3 degrees out. But you get the idea....

All kidding aside, while I am not any of the Gisele or vintage pin-up inspiration, it was a pretty decent first attempt. For those novices like me who want to achieve the perfect soft wave, I have a tip:

*Start with dirty AND straight hair-Even though I have a natural wave to my hair, I wait the day or so after I straighten and blow-dry it to do this. I think having the natural, ahem, "texture" in your hair the day or so after you wash it is necessary to get the curl to hold. That in combination with the fact that I think you need to have soft, straight, shiny hair to get the curls just right. Might seem silly or counterintuitive but I read an article interviewing Sara Jessica Parker's hairstylist years ago who lamented that the straightening and then curling is what gave her the shiny, gorgeous bounce to her signature curls. I think he is right. The cuticle just won't lay flat or have as much bounce or body in most cases if you start from wet hair. If you are having trouble getting that shine or volume in your waves, try this.

As far as what I used to create this look, I find that a clampless curling iron works best for me. They are super easy to use and create a soft wave in a pinch. I use an Enzo Milano one and it seems to work just fine, although I hear fabulous things about the Sultra "Bombshell" one sold at Sephora too. See below for my newest lemming.

Sultra Bombshell Clampless Iron

(taken from sultra.com)

After the clampless iron, I spray the curls with a bit of L'oreal Enett hairspray, a hairstylist's favorite. I absolutely LOATHE hairspray and want to most often pull out my hair than spray it on my head, but I found this step is a necessary evil, and with Elnett I must say your hair does still stay soft and touchable.

Does anyone have any other tips for making the perfect wave? I would love to know!

xoxo

I'm Back..and it took me long enough!

2011-01-28T10:33:00.000-08:00

So I have decided after a long absence due to personal circumstances, I really want to blog again! I hope everyone that reads this will keep the look out for my new and regular posts. Starting on the right foot for the new year, except for this darn cold that won't go away!

Hope all is well in the blogging world. I have some fabulous items, reviews and post ideas coming up. As for this quick post, I wanted to show you what I just bought. It's handmade, and SUPER AFFORDABLE (even though she ships from across the pond) from a very sweet girl I met through my blog, Amy (aka GlamourRouge).

Here is what I ordered-

I just adore the refreshing soft mint color. It won't stop snowing here on the East coast, and seeing single digits on the thermometer has given me a case of the winter blues. I say, bring on fun spring colors and accessories!

Check out her Etsy store. It has some super cute stuff. I got this shipped to the U.S for only like $20!

GlamourRouge Etsy

Disclaimer: Since I haven't posted in a while I just wanted to go over that I am not affiliated with the store or the lovely girl that makes these things in any way, just a simple shout out because she is sweet!

See you all soon!

xoxo

Update, Contest Winner and See you in July!

2010-06-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry to all the fantastic people who I have met through this blog and who read it, I realize I have been more than MIA. I have been going through a lot in my personal life, and really didn't have time to update. Just wanted to let you all know that I am going to pick a contest winner today, contact them, and then take the month off. Not that my personal or professional life outside the blog has been bad, but I have some stuff to sort out before I can commit myself to this blog again. I am going to be gone for June as a little "summer break" and I will see you all back here in July. I hope you all stick around and I'll see you in July!!!

Any of my fabulous ladies I have made and become friends with on here..email me so I can add you to Facebook. I hate not keeping up with you and I usually do keep up with FB more than anything. If not, see all you gorgeous girls in July! A HUGE contest for everyone and regular posts then. Happy June everyone!

xoxo!

Lush Birthday Contest Time!

2010-05-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

Since it is May (the best month of the year), my birthday is in a couple weeks (the 27th to be exact) and I have been MIA because of finals..I thought I would have a contest to celebrate! Since it seems you all love LUSH as much as I do, I thought I would purchase a cute set from LUSH to give away : ) It might not be your birthday, but it is mine, so I chose this gift to give to you to celebrate.

Pictures of the gift will be up this weekend when I pick it up. For now, here it is...

It's adorable, isn't it?!

It contains:

Butterball
Honey Bee Bath Bomb
Blackberry
Avobath
Big Blue Bath Bomb
Think Pink Bath Bomb

My only rule is that you have to be a follower. Just leave a comment, any comment akin to "enter me" and it's as simple as that! Anywhere in the world is fine, and you can enter up to once a day. I will use randomizer.org to pick the winner. The contest will be up until the end of my birthday month, so you have until June 1st to enter.

xoxo

Work Break/ I Heart Mirrored Furniture

2010-05-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

Taking a couple more days off to attempt to get the massive amount of work done for finals. Am I the only one that has no motivation to do anything when it is so nice out? I also have an old friend from college visiting, so I have found myself away from this thing for far too long. After my finals end Wednesday, I'll be back to regular.

Here is my setup. Insert large Starbucks cup and a dishevled, often makeup-free me into the picture, and this is where I have lived for the past week or so.

A big shoutout to anything furniture/accessory related that is mirrored. *Drool* This is from Target too. A lot of times mirrored furniture is expensive, but if you look around Target they have some gorgeous affordable options that I have everywhere on my desk. Loves it!

Talk this week my darlings! Miss you all!

xoxo

Gorgeous New Product Alert: Chanel Lipstick and Gloss in Bondi

2010-04-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

When I heard that Chanel was doing a limited-edition Aqualumiere lipstick and lipgloss named after the beautiful and famous Bondi Beach in Austrailia...I almost hypervenilated. TMI, but my middle name is Bondi! Yes..Logan Bondi..strange, I know! It is my mother's maiden name and since my family names children's middle names from last names in the family, I realized this lipstick and gloss was for me the minute I read about it.

Cut to the Chanel counter at Nordstrom's and the lady working Shishedo helping us and not knowing what I am talking about when I go to buy. The anticipation was killing me..stupid Chanel lady off somewhere hiding! Well, eventually the two very sweet ladies did find both the lipstick and gloss for us and my mom and I wound up buying both. And let me tell you, I was more than pleasantly surprised when I saw the color. I was prepared for this thing to be a really fug color, and still prepared to buy it because of the name. Uh, Chanel AND my middle name? I'll glop it on and look like a baby prostitute if I get my hands on this. I don't even wear lipstick, but I was a woman on a mission to spend more money on designer makeup I won't use. Don't dare to stop me!

This wasn't the case though. No fug color or baby prostitute makeup for me. It is a beautiful bronzy, rose, neutral color that really would work on everyone. Both are in the Aqualumiere formula, which is the very sheer wash of color formula from Chanel. If you are looking for a pigmented option, this is not it. But it is so universally gorgeous, I think everyone might like the gloss or the lipstick. We bought a lipstick to my aunt (a Bondi) that night as a hostess gift for dinner, and my cousin's and I were musing on how pretty it was. Sure, we were excited for the name, but the fact is that my cousin's, aunt, mom and I range in skin tone from the most super fair blonde hair blue eyes (me) to the darkest Mediteranian skin tone/features, brown hair, brown eyes like my cousin...and everything in between. And playing with the lipstick, we all saw that it would work for all of us. This is one of the few items I can say that many skin tones (not just mine) would really like this color.

My particular favorite is the gloss. Mostly because I am a gloss girl, but also because it is slightly lighter in color than the lipstick. Both are flecked with gold shimmer, and it is especially apparent in the gloss, which really lights up the lips.

Bondi Lipstick

Bondi Beach Lipgloss

NOTE:They are pulling a little more orange or coral to me in the flash than I think they are in person. I see them as more neutral than in my camera.

Lipstick below and gloss above

Again, they are both sheer washes of color, and the lipstick feels more like a gloss stick hybrid than a creamy opaque lipstick. But I think this would be nice for summer or those that don't care for a heavy lipstick. The lipstick also contains SPF 15, so I see it as a perfect idea for summer. They have a bit more color than the swatch shows up on my hand above though. I will add lip pictures later when I throw some makeup on today.

I was told this was being sold for a limited time until May 2nd or so, but I am unsure if this is true or not, but if you are interested, check this out soon ladies. I think it is not to be missed!

xoxo

Mmmm..White Watches: My Belated Easter Gift!

2010-04-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

I was beyond excited when I got a little gift today in the mail. I have been drooling over a white watch for summer, but torn because I didn't want to spend a ton on it (Chanel J12..I still love you..but I don't know if you are a classic for me yet. Also I can't afford you right now. lol ) I also am not really one that wants like tons of bling, crystals or color on it besides the white, so I had a hard time finding one I liked.

Until I tried on the Michael Kors Ceramic one! I fell in love and bought it with the money the Easter Bunny left in an egg in my basket. It came today and I am so excited, it is lovely! Sorry if the pictures aren't the best. Couldn't find my camera quick enough to handle my excitement so I snapped em with crapola cell phone camera again.

Pretty Leather-ish Case

I like it so much that it is falling off my wrist (didn't take links out yet), but I am so excited I am wearing it anyway. It's abusing my Macbook by clanging it with every letter I type..lol This will not leave my wrist all of summer, I know it.

What is your favorite jewelry piece for spring/summer?

xoxo

p.s Thanks for all the love and some new award tags from some of my favorite ladies! It means so much to me you have no idea. Every comment and award really makes me so happy. I will be doing a tag to thank you next. Thanks so much girls! Love you all!

Sneak Peak: Zac Posen for Target

2010-04-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

I was in my local Target today milling around the store for some basic cleaning supplies etc and wandered into the back of the store near the clothing. Well in a corner was a hanging rack of clothes (and a certain tag) that caught my eye.

I first will apologize for the a la crap photos. They were from my (horribly bad) cell phone camera and I was snapping away quickly as to not get caught (god knows what I thought would happen if people saw me, I just thought I looked crazy)

Bad photo quality aside..Hello..ZAC POSEN people! I love Zac Posen, and wanted to see what the collection was all about. And since it isn't supposed to be released for two more days, I thought I would share my photos and thoughts about the stuff I saw.

Overall it looked like cute stuff. There seemed to be a black/blue theme with several of the pieces (the black items were trimmed with a very pretty navy) and most of the quality seemed nice for the price. I must say though, I have never bought clothes from Target or any of the Go International lines, so I am not the authority on comparing this line as compared to others in the store.

This was a very pretty dress in person. It was a nice blue color, trimmed with black and grommets. It was a very thin weight, and that made it seem a bit inexpensive when you touched it , but overall I think it would be stunning on.

This was a VERY cute long slouchy tank top that I think I will have to go back and buy. It featured his logo and I think a tube of lipstick. It was very soft and looked high quality to me. I don't even like tops with writing on it, but this was adorable!

Out of all the items I saw (they were hard to get to since they were stuffed behind clothing displays), this dress would be the "pass" item for me. I might pick up every item I saw except for this, for several reasons. First, it looked cheap. Sorry, it did. It was one of those "pouf" dresses (which first off would work for a younger person and not me) and made in a material that was incredibly shiny, sheer and somewhat like an inexpensive looking organza. If you are younger or like the style of dress, this might be for you, but it is something I look at and think I can see how inexpensive it is.

The black pants were cute. Very thin-feeling cotton (but again, I guess you have to consider it is a Target line), but looked nice. They were verrry slim cut and piped in a navy that was really attractive. These are worth a look, although the cut is so straight that I am not sure they would work for my shape. The waist doesn't go in at all, and I have an hourglass. These pants would be too tight in the thighs and baggy in the waist in whatever size I would be, so I passed. Really cute though!

And finally (before I got more strange looks) I picked up what I think is the best item of the whole lot...

I think it is to die for gorgeous in person! Granted, this is a style that I like (a classic pleated black skirt with a higher waist and feminine details..divine), but it also was hands-down the best feeling and quality item of all I saw. It is a very thick, beefy (not in bad way, more a quality, hefty feel) textured fabric and the pleating details made it look like something I would buy in Neiman's, not Target.

I mean..look at the back of it! The pleating and gathering detail and the large zipper make it look designer. The tag of the zipper even has "Zac Posen" on it. I don't think details like this usually come in such a line, and I was amazingly impressed. I was actually mad because it looks almost identical to a Marc Jacobs skirt I have that would go for 5-10 times the price. This was $39.99! I bought the last skirt and took it home and its lovely. It fits high in the waist and isn't too short. I'm so pleased!

From my research, the Zac Posen for Target line drops in stores officially in two days (April 25), and in my opinion, totally worth a look!

xoxo

Post Note: For reference, in the skirt if it helps anyone, I bought a size 5. I haven't bought 1,3,5 sizes in forever, so I have no idea what size I am supposed to be in those, but I am usually a US size 4 in skirts/dresses. A 3 was a little too small and the 5 was a little big in the waist but I think that is okay since it is a somewhat full-pleated skirt. Also, the zipper is a nice detail, although some of them seemed to be hard to zipper and would snag. Make sure to get one with a good zipper on it, as some of them didn't have that problem to me.

Beautiful Blogger Award

2010-04-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank two very beautiful ladies for tagging me for the beautiful blogger award. My gorgeous girls and fellow bloggers Nadia from It's Always Summer on the Inside and Lipstick on the Cup were kind enough to tag me for this award on each of their fabulous blogs. You must check out both of them. Thank you so much girls, each comment, award or visit I get really means so very much to me!

You are supposed to write 7 random facts about you and tag 7 people, but I did this post a while back, and I don't think anyone will want to read any more random facts about me! If you didn't read the first one, my most random fact is I have a fear of sandwiches. Yep, I HATE them. If it has deli meat or something on it...I want to run away and throw up. Omg..I AM SO STRANGE!

I will compile a list of some of the beautiful ladies whose blogs I read and post that very soon though. Ah, I'm horrible with inserting links. It takes me like 20 minutes if I have to copy anything. (Random fact 2)

Thank you again girls. Love you!

xoxo

Contest coming up soon for May..look out for it!

New Product Alert: Urban Decay Makeup Setting Sprays

2010-04-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

Oh Urban Decay, you just know exactly what I need for summer don't you...

(Getty Images-I have a profile there for permission)

It's summer (err..almost), and I love summer. But this sun above and my oily skin conspire to make it so no matter how many primers, powders etc I put on, my makeup eventually slides off my face...or it eats it. Either way, it looks a la crap after a whole day of wear, so when I saw Urban Decay was coming out with a new set of finishing sprays I was sold to try at least one.

Are you with me makeup lovers...makeup meltdown is THE WORST!

Urban Decay said they would solve this through their new setting sprays. Fix + doesn't do much for me to keep makeup meltdown at bay, and breaks me out. I have heard good things about Model in a Bottle, and a makeup artist used it for a job on me once, and I can say it worked nicely, although I find it hard to get.

Back in the dark ages, they also used to spray hairspray (that was the worst) on shoots before these fixers came out to set the makeup and keep it from moving under hot lights. Uh, no thanks. So to keep me from spraying Fekkai's Sheer Hold Hairspray on my poor face this summer, Urban Decay came to the rescue with their new summer line.

There are four of them. The pictures, besides my own, and the claims are from www.urbandecay.com, the companies lovely website. I wanted to be able to show you what all of them look like and emailed them to let them know I was taking their pictures. A wonderful company all-around imo. They don't know who I am (they might know my credit card number..hehe), but wrote back with a lovely response letting me use the images.

Gaurdian Angel Spray Moisturizer-is supposed to provide moisture, even for "acne, oily or sensitive skin" for 24 hours. So they say. It would be nice for winter when I get a little dry.

De-Slick Oil control Makeup Setting Spray-"Gives you 16 shine-free hours"

Dew Me Moisturizing Makeup Setting Spray-Says it holds makeup properly for 16 hours while giving a "glowing,moisturized, brighter-looking complexion."

All-Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Spray-Formulated for all skin-types that makes your makeup last 16 hours.

My View:

Skip to Bottom Line if you don't want babbling..haha

I am really liking it so far. I started by applying a body bronzer on both hands (Duwop Revolotion-great stuff if you are pale and too lazy to faux tan..but we all know any body shimmer/bronzer no matter how "transfer resistant" the claim, transfers a little). I sprayed one hand to see how it felt and worked.(and to see if it gave me ridiculous hives or something) I thought it made the bronzer less transfer resistant and wore longer.

Then I tried it yesterday on my face. I sprayed it after applying my makeup (make sure to shake the bottle) It is a spray that is very fine in nature. Much more so than Fix + for me. It is super fine (first pump, make sure to spray on your hand to get it spraying right), and dries almost in an instant, which is nice. I don't want a sticky, wet feeling on my face for minutes.

Within seconds it dried, and didn't even look like I had applied anything. It dried to a skin's texture or whatever makeup texture (matte, glowy etc) you had underneath it, which is nice. You can't even tell it's there. I also think it did keep me from breaking through in oil and when I looked in the mirror after a long day (you know..where you say "ew..where did my face/makeup go?!), I thought "Oh, makeup is still looking good."

Bottom Line:

I really do think it made me less oily, made my foundation and face makeup less transfer resistant and overall my makeup last longer. I have to do more research on this, since I only used it twice, and it wasn't a day where I was out for 15 hours, or at a club/out at night sweating my eye and face makeup into something horrifying, so I can't say it is for sure the best thing since sliced bread. But I am really liking it so far. It is oil and paraben free and I can say for sure it didn't break me out, which a lot of those sprays do. And I might be seeing things due to hayfever delirium but I think it made my skin look better after I sprayed it! It isn't cheap. I think its about $28 here in the U.S. but worth a try since it might work for you too since I can imagine this thing lasting forever. Plus anything that makes my makeup last longer is worth it to me!

Again, I will try it for longer and get back and update you on my thoughts, but I know that I often search around for blogs or reviews on brand new products to get some initial reaction ( I was googling this before I bought it and didn't find anything), and I wanted to give you mine!

Hope this helps anyone curious about this product!

xoxo

Note: Oh and just an FYI, I paid for this with my own moola (as I do everything) and UD doesn't know I exist. Wanted to make that clear since I was linking them. I am simply expressing gratitude at the company letting me use their pictures. Im too much of a B to rave about something I didn't like..haha!

Does anyone here have Twitter?

2010-04-20T17:37:00.000-07:00

So I finally gave in (in a moment of sadness and boredom) to create a Twitter account. I am curious to see what it is all about, and I would LOVE to know if any of you have Twitter too! I would love to follow you, or your blog associated with it (if I haven't already).

My Twitter!

Feel free to post yours, I would love to know everyone's twitter if they have one!

My MAC Travel Palette

2010-04-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been a bit MIA recently. My allergies have been killing me! Anyone else suffering recently? The makeup I love to apply hasn't been working much on huge, red, puffy eyes. I stopped working out outside, so that should help. I'll be back to normal in no time!

I thought this could be a post about Mac eyeshadow palettes. I have several, arranged by color, but since I have been traveling recently, I threw the ones I thought I would use the most and could create any eye look, into one palette. Well I have been so happy with having all the eyeshadows I use on a regular basis in one place, I have kept them in the palette as is. I thought I would share my picks for a palette that could last you weeks, or would be a good idea to start a Mac palette if you don't have one already!

The Palette

And the colors are as follows, from left to right:

Top left 1st row, down:

*Gesso

*Naked Lunch

*Blanc Type

2nd row, down:

*Vanilla

*Next to Nothing (LE with a Nordstom's only quad)

*Woodwinked (I totally dug my nail into this trying to lift it up and see if that was it..haha)

From Top:

*Cranberry

*Honey Lust

*Soft Brown (a must for anyone if you have trouble blending out harsh lines. Its a savior!)

1st row, downwards:

*Ricepaper

*Sable

*Espresso

Last row, down:

*Copperplate

*Scene

*Typographic

If anyone wants, I'll go back and add the finish to each of them. But overall, I think these are great options for starting a palette from Mac. I have been able to do anything from a wash of natural color, to a soft brown or even all the way to a sexy smokey charcoal eye. A few are limited edition, but most are not, and worth checking out to help your eyeshadows get the most bang for your buck!

Be back tomorrow to say hello to everyone and comment. I know I am behind! Happy Monday everyone!

xoxo

How I Changed My Skin:Part III

2010-04-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with exfoliation. This post would take up pages if I showed you all the exfoliating products I use, but I am going to just highlight the couple that I use on the regular.

Exfoliation:

If you have acne, congested skin, blackheads, clogged pores, fine lines...just about any skin in my mind, I think exfoliation is the key to having better skin overall. There are two main types of exfoliation:

1. Physical- What it sounds like. It is the kind of exfoliator that has a physical substance (small round beads, crush almond shells etc) that physically work to exfoliate the top layer of the skin.

2. Chemical-This is where a chemical or enzyme works to "eat away" or exfoliate the top dead skin cells through a chemical or catalyzed enzyme reaction. There are no literal scrubbers to exfoliate the skin (sometimes the scrub has both), but it is the chemicals/enzymes that do the work. Usually this is done through AHA's, BHA's (alpha and beta hydroxy acids like glycolic, salycilic or lactic acids), a retinol or retinoid product, or some enzyme like bromelin or something found in pineapple or papaya that dissolves dead skin naturally. There are actually a ton more chemical exfoliators, but this is just an overview.

What I Use:

Most of the time I use a chemical exfoliator combined with physical exfoliation. My skin can handle both, and my pores can get congested, so a combination of both really help me. If you are dry, you may only have to exfoliate once a week. I do it every day and see a great, positive difference in my pores.

Clarisonic-I used to have mixed feelings with the Clarisonic, but after switching to the sensitive head, I can say I really like this. I use it with my cleanser (the Coalface from LUSH as mentioned earlier) and it does provide an additional light exfoliation to me that has really helped my pores become less congested. It is pricey, but finding the right head (from the normal, which was too much for me, sensitive and delicate), really helps, and I wouldn't be without it now.

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Peel Pads-One of my first posts was about this system. It is what first changed my skin for the better. It is one you use everyday and it takes months to show serious results, but it worth every penny. Here was my experience:

"I tried one pad on a whim, as it was a sample given in a Neiman's beauty order many, many months ago. I was bored and frustrated with my skin and decided to give the peel a whirl. It is a two step system in which you swipe one pad on your skin (the one with AHA and BHA for exfoliating) ...wait 2 minutes..and then wipe the other pad on your skin (the neutralizing and soothing one with retinal) My skin felt like a baby's butt after this. It was smooth and glowing. Now I can't say it helped my acne or pores after this, but it was so lovely it made me order right on the spot.

I am now two months into the system, and I can say it has shown actual positive results for my skin, acne, post-acne scarring, and pore size/congestion. It took a little while, and I did experience purging, at first (I broke out and had almost worse pore congestion than before in the beginning, so don't freak out if you are doing this regime too..it does get better!) but it was all worth it. My acne is more under control (I don't have that much to begin with but I find I break out less), one particular acne scar I have is actually disappearing (nothing would make it go away!) and most of all my pore size and pore congestion has decreased greatly. I couldn't be more happy with a product, and haven't been at any point in my life."

I am now more than 4 months into this treatment, and it is something I can't live without. Dr. Dennis Gross has never made a product I have tried that hasn't actually done what it says it will. And this has changed my overall skin more than I could ever imagine. I am almost even enough and without spots I can go without makeup outside! It takes a while to see real difference in pore size or congestion though, but if you get a sample and try it once, your skin feel like a baby's butt, and I bet you will be hooked!

Lush Ocean Salt-This stuff is rough, and I like it that way! It is a pure, physical exfoliator that smells like lemon or lime Margharitas (it has vodka in it..no tequila though..haha) and has a pretty rough texture when rubbed on the skin. If you need a serious exfoliating, I would use this. I love it. But if you are sensitive or dry, I would use it only once a week. Some say its drying (I can see that because of the salt), but I actually find it a little moisturizing (leaves a bit of a film on the skin). If you are looking for a hardcore scrub that really gets your blood flowing, go check this out!

Honorable Mentions-

Kiehls Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub-If you are looking for a gentle, enzyme peel, this is a great choice. Its Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate minus the ridiculous price tag. It has small grains to exfoliate, but you leave it on for several minutes on your face like a mask and the enzymes from the pineapple and papaya eat the dead skin cells. I find it a bit moisturizing too, so it would be good for sensitive or more dry skins.

Lush Mask of Magnaminty-It is meant as a mask so I use this once a week or a time I need that extra deep cleaning, but has physical scrubbers that exfoliate the skin too. It works lovely, although can be drying if used too often.

MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator-The perfect combination of small grains that don't irritate but slough everything off to leave you glowing. Too bad it broke me out when I used it. If you aren't as acne prone as me, try and get your hands on this!

I also use a pimple treatment all over my face from Dr. Dennnis Gross to that provides exfoliation through the chemical type, but that is going to be in my "treatment" section next.

I didn't want to keep this post even longer, but if you want any additional pictures or have questions, please let me know!

What are your favorite exfoliators?

xoxo

Spring Break Favorite Things Part II:Accessories make the girl!

2010-04-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the continuation of my "spring break favorite things", and I thought I would highlight a few cute accessories that I bought during my break. I'm an accessories girl, and since I wear often boring solid colors, I love to have lots of accessories to change things up!

Gucci Sandals-

These are little rubber flat sandals that I thought would be so cute with casual cotton dresses for summer (which I basically live in during the warmer months). They seemed comfy when I tried them on, although I am worried about the rubber construction. Is rubber that comfy? I'll let you all know the verdict although I'll probably just suffer for cuteness : )

Chanel Sunglasses and I'm a sucker for bows:

For those of you that read my previous posts, you will remember I posted about loving Chanel sunglasses. I am also a sucker for bows. Put a bow on it and I'll probably want it. Sad, I know. Well I was looking for a pair of new brown sunglasses since the last pair I talked about are black, and these fit the bill. The darn bows got me!

Tory Burch Flip Flops-

Well, I must have a thing for jelly's this year don't I, because these are jelly material too. They are super comfy, and would be perfect for the pool and with aforementioned dresses. I also adore navy. Blue is my favorite color. I think it often compliments my blue eyes and it looks less harsh on my fair skin than black.

FRINGE!-

Well I might just be a sucker period, but I am also a sucker for fringe. When I saw this bracelet I had to have it. I wore is yesterday and the fringe is so. much. fun!

The final installment (haha) of the favorites will be a few pictures of some of the clothing items I bought. Be sure to look out for it!

Anyone have any favorite items they bought for the change of seasons? I would love to hear!

xoxo

Spring Break Favorite Things Part I: Operation All Cars Need Massage Chairs

2010-04-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

I decided to do a "spring break favorite things" instead of the usual monthly favorites. I wanted to highlight a few nice things I did and acquired during spring break that I am currently loving. I didn't want to do a big complete haul or anything, since I thought it would be tacky to show every little thing I bought last week. I promise I am not intending to brag here. I was lucky to get a good bit of beautiful items (esp. because I went down a dress size : ) ) thanks to some saving by me and the generosity of my wonderful mom. It is a long post, so be prepared!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Driving into NYC/Massage chairs in cars-

I actually like driving in New York City. All the hustle and bustle makes me happy and the city has always made me feel at home. I especially like that I grew up, and my parent's still live, in a place that is close enough to drive there. Not much traffic in the Lincoln tunnel (shown), so I was happy! I was also happy because my mom let me drive her car. We drive the same brand (is that the right word?) of car, but she has a different, brand-new 2010 model that has the same massage chair action like you get in pedicure chair!! You know when you go to a salon or sit in one of those fancy chairs that kneeds your back for you? Her car does it while you drive! Kinda distracting at first, but now I want it in my car!

Central Park Boathouse-

We ate there for lunch, and I just adore central park : ) It was a day after three constant days of rain and it was lovely out. The food is good (if you like crabcakes, get it here, I am super picky about not having fillers and only jumbo lump and these were great!) and the setting is even better. It is the only restaurant in the park that is overlooking a lake. For those of you that watch Sex and the City, the episode where Carrie goes to meet Big for lunch and they fall in the water is set at this restaurant.

Bloomingdales Frozen Yogurt-

This is one of my favorite things in the world. I cannot express to you how I am a member of the Bloomie's yogurt cult (I have a card for it even!) This picture was taken on the day we went to The Mall at Short Hills (the mall we always go to outside of NYC in northern NJ) but you better believe we got yogurt at the one in NYC when we were there too. I am on a diet and don't eat sweets, but this is fat-free and amazing. If it wasn't fat free, I would still get it. They have a "plain" flavor (pictured) that isn't vanilla but has the tang of what regular plain yogurt tastes like and its FANTASTIC. If you are ever in a Bloomingdale's or near one...get this!!!

To be continued....

My next post will be some of the fashion items I bought since I think spring clothes are so fun to look at! Be sure to look out for it! The post ran REALLY long, so I am going to break it up into a few parts so I don't bore you all to death!

Thank You's-

I would also like to thank Irene at Lovely Violet for giving me the cutest award! I was so happy to come back to reality with such a sweet sentiment. She is one of my favorite, sweet people in this blog world, you must check her out if you have not already!

A big thank you to Couture for tagging me for the sunshine award. It is hard for me to get back into the grind of work for some reason this week, and such a kind thought really makes my day! Thank you so much : ) She has some beautiful dresses and outfits up on her blog right now, you should go check it out!

I will be doing a tag for them as soon as I get myself back into the flow of things. Thank you ladies again so very much : )

xoxo

How I Changed My Skin:Part II

2010-04-06T07:28:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I am back to reality today (boo) as I am back at my place and starting classes again. At least its pretty weather out here. It's finally getting warm out! I had a lovely time at home and in NYC and bought tons of cute stuff. Posts this week on a few things I got are in order : )

This post, however, is a continuation on how I changed my skin for the better and virtually got rid of my acne. We are onto step 2, which is after you remove your makeup, is cleanser..and I found an amazing (if not strange) one!

Cleanser

I have tried every single cleanser on the market practically, and I the promises of what they say they do are mostly crap. I have to say though, that the cleanser I have been using the past couple months actually lives up to the hype Lush sends its way. It has helped clear my pores and literally gives me a glow (not oily kinda glow, but great skin kinda glow) after I use it. I'm officially in love.

As you can see above it is a bar cleanser from Lush called "Coalface." It looks a bit pricey there, but as you will see below, I bought a HUGE chunk that will last forever. You can go in a buy a much cheaper piece that will last a month or so too. But price aside, even if it was this pricey for a small piece, I hate to say I think I would still buy it. For what it has done for my skin, it is worth every penny!

...and yes, its black. And it sparkles. It's officially the strangest cleanser I have ever used. But it is also the best. I don't use bar soap, yet alone a strange black bar soap, but I am really glad I randomly picked it up a month or so ago because it is amazing. It is very soft in texture, and I cut this piece up after I got it easily with a butter knife. When you rub it in wet hands it doesn't lather that much, but once you rub it in your skin it turns white. The black color is said to be due to charcoal and licorice extract, which is supposed to exfoliate and detoxify. From the Lush site:

"If you love the feeling of squeaky clean skin, this is the bar for you. We put in powdered charcoal because it's such an amazing exfoliator and absorber of excess oils. We add in rosewood and sandalwood as a balance to soothe and calm, and softening licorice root decoction. We recommend this lathering, sparkly cleansing bar for oiler skin because it's so great at absorbing excess oils and leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean. Don't use regular body soap to wash your face please; use this instead."

And I gotta say, I buy it, it really does work for me. It gives you a really super clean feel to the skin and has helped my skin become clear and glowing. I would have never guessed it from this bar, but if you have oily or congested skin this might be your holy grail.

Note: I almost forgot to include a really important thing. DO NOT rub this around your eye area like a normal cleanser. This may not happen to you, but I found this EXTREMELY irritating to my eyes. If I rubbed it around them, they would sting and swell up afterwards like I got bopped in the eye. Not a good look. I make sure to use my oil cleanser, or at least an eye makeup remover before this. Be very careful if you use it around your eyes!

Next up is my favorite kind of skincare...exfoliating : )

Missed you all, so happy to be back!

xoxo

Spring Break Time!

2010-03-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know I will be posting not very much this week, as I have the whole week off for spring break! Mommy and I will hopefully be going to NYC to see a show, shop and sleepover at the Ritz. Here is to hoping I find some great spring finds when I am home. Hope everyone has a great week, and finds luck spring shopping too! Posts every other day or more as usual next weekend when I am back to reality : )

Peonies are my favorite flower!

(wholeblossoms.com)

Love you all! Let me know if you found anything fun while spring shopping too, I would love to hear!

xoxo

POTD: Purse of the Day and Other Loves : )

2010-03-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Today's POTD (since I have a slight obsession with purses) was my Louis Vuitton Neverfull in Damier Ebene. It is the middle size of the three Neverfull sizes available, and I got it for my birthday a couple years back before it was available in the states on a family trip to Maui. As sad as I was to have it widely available now everywhere, I still love it. It's cute and easy with jeans and brown and it fit's so much of my stuff in it. I also like it better than the big size, which I have in the Monogram Canvas, but it really so big it is more for travel than anything else, at least on me. It went nicely with my super casual outfit today consisting of my dark skinny jeans and brown boyfriend cardi. Loves it!

I also wore these shoes with it, to give the outfit a bit of shine and interest. They are by Burberry and are super cute on.

The other love of the day was my nail polish. Excuse the not-so-fab picture, but it is a really fabulous color on! It's by OPI and called OPI on Collins Ave, and its a lovely bright (not neon though) coral, which looks so fresh and summery to me. I tested it out on my hands and am so getting my next pedicure with it. I can't wait!

I would also like to thank Sarah from Sarah Soda for giving me another lovely award. I have been having a rough week, and all your love has made me feel so much better. She has such a nice blog, you need to go check it out. I was drooling at all the cute Lush stuff she just got. I need that yellow egg gift for Easter! Thanks again Sarah, love ya girl!

Did you guys have any loves of the day from your outfit today?

I joined Bloglovin today too! Does anyone belong? You can follow my blog there too!

Follow my blog with bloglovin

xoxo

Blog Award/Tag

2010-03-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

I got tagged for this lovely award from the gorgeous Nadia (UrbanMermaid) on her blog It's Always Summer on the Inside for this adorable blog award! Thank you so much darling! She has one of my favorite blogs (and head of amazing hair) around, so you must check her out!

The rules:

- Post the award on your blog

- Link the person who has given you the award

- Pass the award to 15 other blogs you’ve discovered

- Remember to contact the bloggers you’ve nominated

Now I am supposed to pass this onto some of my favorite fellow bloggers/blogs. Here are my choices:

Leah-Gwendolyn Loves

Glamour Rouge

Holly-The Good, The Bad and The Beauty

Jersey and the Monkey

Stella-***

Pippa-Clashing Time

Vaida G-Cocos and Vanilla

Couture

Lorraine-Lowster - She won my first contest prize and chose Nars Lovejoy Blush! : )

Get Gawjus!

Zanah-Mon Mode Blog

Hannah-London Rose

Princess Freckles-Her Highness of Cute

Eek, I am so bad at this you guys. All the links confuse me, and I know I forgot people. I also know some of you gorgeous ladies might have gotten this award already, sorry if I missed that, but I wanted to pass the love on to some of the blogs I adore. Mwah to all of you! And thank you again Nadia , you are the best. I was having a bad day, and this turned it around!

xoxo

How I Changed My Skin:Part I

2010-03-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a series of posts that goes over how I have noticed a huge, positive change in my skin. I have oily skin and have dealt with acne for 10 years. The very enlarged, congested pores, oiliness and breaking out monthly was really getting to me, and this routine I have been using has really made a difference. I have not broken out this month for the first time in memory and I can't believe it! Now my skin is not perfect and I am not sure it ever will be, but the overall tone, texture, and clarity has improved so much, I have to share the products I am using. All of them seem to help to make a difference.

Now onto step one in my skin care routine.

Part 1: Removing Makeup/Oil Cleansing

While I know that oil cleansing scares the ever loving crap out of some people, especially those with oily skin (me included), there has been no better way to remove all the stuff from your skin so your cleanser can clean effectively and work like it should. This kind of cleanser really cuts through any kind of hard to remove makeup (foundation to waterproof mascara), sunscreen, oil, sweat etc, even for oily skin, and doesn't break me out at all. It's really amazing!

As you can see, I have been using this a while, to make sure it worked and didn't break me out. It's great!

The kind that I currently use is Boscia's Makeup Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil. While it is an oil, if it makes any sense, it doesn't feel too oily or greasy on your skin. I would shudder to think about some oils I have felt rubbing all over my face at the end of the day..yuck! It glides really nicely on the skin, doesn't really foam (I know some do), but lathers up a bit when mixed with a little oil and really dissolves everything.

All I do is take one pump and glide it over my dry skin. When you rub this around your face, I was shocked at how quickly literally everything was dissolved on my face. It took about two seconds and my long wear makeup and sunscreen is broken down, and my face is washed clean. Its amazing! I find rubbing it on dry skin really helps the makeup dissolve the best and then I mix it a bit on my face with water and rinse off. I feel no oily or greasy residue after either, which is great! This one is done at night, if I am wearing makeup or sunscreen, or if I am particurlarly oily and/or sweaty and is skipped if I do not feel I need it. I usually need it though and most nights I use it.

I don't just use a cleansing oil, however, since I do have oily skin, I want all the residue or lingering gunk to be washed away..so proper cleansing is next for me, and will be covered in Part 2!

xoxo

Estee Lauder-Who Knew?!

2010-03-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have a brand that just isn't in your consciousness or one that has never captured you before until you tried one product randomly and thought "Wow-who knew?!" This has been my experience recently with Estee Lauder. For one reason or another the thought of Estee Lauder in general doesn't really excite me all that much. I don't know if it's because it has been around so long, and I associate the brand with my mother or grandmother, but it just never really excited me enough to want to purchase anything from them in a long time.

That all changed when I was looking for a new foundation and was told I have to try Estee Lauder's Doublewear. I hadn't thought of Estee Lauder before, but have heard great things about the foundation before, so I went out to try it. I walked on over to the Estee counter and got myself the foundation (which I love btw), but while I was there, out of boredom or just perhaps because I have a problem with shopping, I picked up a few of their color items as well from their new summer "Michael Kors Very Hollywood" and "Bronze Goddess" collection...and I gotta say, I am in love!

Foundation to me is more of a utilitarian necessity than anything else, and I don't care what brand it is from, as long as it works and doesn't break me out. But I was surprised at the color items I bought there, and how wonderful and exciting they were! I got three products besides the foundation and I really do like them all. They are great quality, and look beautiful on. It makes me want to go get more from them! Where were you all my life Estee Lauder?!

The first two products are from the Michael Kors line and they are his blush in "coral sunset" and a lipgloss in "honey blonde" and they are both gorgeous! The blush is pigmented and looks like a beautiful flush on the skin. While I dislike the packaging and think the stupid, worthless blush brush should be done in with in favor of more product, I think it is a beautiful and quality blush. While it is shimmery in the pan, I do not find it to be shimmery on the skin.

In the pan

Swatch on finger (sorry, no makeup today so I can't show it on skin!)

I also love the lipgloss and it is one of my favorite colors on my lips. Pigmented enough to give a sexy, nude shine, but not too much to make you look like a corpse. It does have a strange purfume scent to it, which I didn't dislike but I would have preferred it to be unscented, as the scent is distracting. The color is so gorgeous though, I will suffer for it! It is also a little bit sticky, which I enjoy since it stays on the lips a little longer than one that slides around on you.

The third product I got was from the "Bronze Goddess" collection and it is their "bronzing blush." It is a melange of bronze and coral-pink together in a zebra pattern (so cute) that you swirl together and get a great sunny coral-pink glow to the cheeks. It is not super pigmented, but glowy and gorgeous, so I like it best on top of another blush for a statement look (I like statement blush). It is a cheap package, in that you can feel how plastic and light it is, but the result on the skin is so pretty, I like it anyway.

When swirled together

While the products do have some drawbacks (smelly lipgloss, and cheap packaging and that stupid brush), the product really surprised me in a good way and I think it is a line worth taking a second look at.

Do you have any brands that you have experienced this "who knew?!" phenomenon? Let me know or do a post on your own blog about it and paste a link in the comments. I think it would be a fun tag to do to learn about new brands or lines perhaps some of us haven't thought about before for one reason or another.

xoxo!

Contest Winner, Awards and Thank You's : )

2010-03-16T19:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you all so much who participated in my very first contest! I am so excited to send out the prize, and want to hold another one very soon. On that note, if you ever have suggestions for another prize you would like to see, feel free to email or comment me to let me know. I was thinking the next prize will be Lush related, since so many of you can't find it in your respective countries (and its fab of course!)

But for now, I wanted to announce the winner of this NARS prize.

Set #1:

I just typed in the number of comments and went to randomizer.org to get a number. It was 16, so I took the 16th comment is Lorraine from Lowster! Sorry if you don't like this method, but I thought it was the best one for the circumstance : )

For those that didn't win, I will be having another giveaway very soon!

I would also like to thank the gorgeous Pippa from her beautiful blog Clashing Time for giving me the cutest award!

She is darling, and her blog is a pleasure to look at, you must check it out! She also just started an anti-bullying blog, Clashing Time Anti-Bullying, which I think is brilliant and sweet of her. Bullying, in any form or medium, is not acceptable to me. You need to go and support her blog to make a stand against people who apparently have nothing better to do than become victims of their own self-loathing by putting other people down. In life and online I have experienced this, and it hurts. We should all be here to support each other : )

I would also like to thank one of my other favorite bloggers Stella for tagging me on her blog for a "3's of me questions" tag. I know you all are dying to read that from me. I am working on it, but wanted to thank her first since I am so slow at these tag things. Thanks Stella! Go to her blog now..it's wonderful!

I would also like to thank Couture on her blog for giving me the Happy 101 award. Her blog is lovely, go check it out!

All the tags and the passing on of these awards will go up as soon as I get back home. A little rest for a few days because I have been working 24/7, but I will catch up on everything after this : ) Thanks dolls!

xoxo

My View:Mac Liberty of London First Thoughts

2010-03-15T15:06:00.000-07:00

I am home visiting my lovely parents and brother, who is on spring break from law school for a few days, but I wanted to post a quick picture of the MAC items that came in the mail for me from the Liberty of London Collection. I haven't had time to test them out other than swatching them, so I will review them further when I get a chance, but wanted to post some pictures in case anyone was debating whether or not to buy things from there. Sorry about the distracting marble background. I am not at my house and didn't have a great place to take the pictures.

I was unsure of the packaging at first, but I actually really like it! So fresh and springy! Although when my mom saw it, specifically the bird on the lipgloss, she said "Holy smokes! It looks like Ed Hardy!" LOL..I didn't even know she knew what Ed Hardy was, but I can assure you it is much prettier and feminine than most of that stuff.

Shell Pearl (a beauty powder) looks beautiful! It is a peachy-pink sheer powder that when swatched looks glowy and sheer, not shiny or glittery, which I like. It would be a beautiful highlighter on any complexion. I would get this one while you can, it really is gorgeous!

Shell Pearl

Bough grey was more like Bough *sigh* to me. I had such good hopes for it and at first looks great, but when swatched doesn't have the best texture or color payoff..and by that I mean no color payoff and a crappy texture. Way to miss it on this one MAC. It was HORRIBLE when I swatched it. I couldn't even see anything. I would skip unless you have seen it in person and disagree.

The lipglass in Frankly Fresh is very pretty. Typical MAC gloss, which isn't my favorite gloss formulation ever, but this one is a coral tinged pinky-nude that really is very fresh and pretty looking. Might have to buy a backup, it really is lovely, even on pigmented lips.

I will have more pictures and swatches up later, since I think I shall hit the local MAC store around my parents to maybe get a couple more things. Bad Logan! The collection is so different and new, I find it a pleasant and refreshing change from MAC, which I think sometimes just turns out stale, rehashes of their old stuff and labels it as "new." This is a collection definitely worth looking at!

Also, I know I have lots of thank you's and tags/awards to do, and I will get on that very soon. Just wanted to spend a couple days without work or worry with the fam : ) Love you all!

xoxo

Contest Reminder!

2010-03-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

My contest ends soon, on this Tuesday March 16th, for the NARS grand prize (a choice of blush or the Temptation set)..so if you haven't already, scroll down a few posts and be sure to enter! Winner will be announced Wednesday March 17th.

Prize:

Or your choice of any NARS blush!

Thanks to all the lovely ladies that have entered so far!

xoxo

Lush Bath:Part II

2010-03-13T14:48:00.000-08:00

Sex bomb, sex bomb, she's a sex bomb....

Isn't that an old song, or am I going nuts? Possibly a little of both, huh? ANYWAY...So today I bring you my second bath bomb that I used out of my "Let's Get Fizzical" set from LUSH. Here is another look at what the set looked like.

Today (obviously) I used the "Sex Bomb" bath bomb from the set. I remember it being my favorite from years ago when I last used bath bombs from LUSH, and it did not disappoint me this time either. Here is what the little baby looks like:

Sex Bomb Bath Bomb-the bottom half is pink also

So cute right?! It is really fragrant even after you plop her in the bath too, which I love. Some of the ones I have used don't smell at all after you plop them down in the water, and I don't find that acceptable! I want the water to be a pretty color and to smell yummy as well.

Plop, Plop...Fizz!

This one is really fragrant in a beautifully sensual way. Reminds me of my Chanel Coco Mademoiselle not in that it smells exactly like that, but has the same warm, jasmine, sexy "mood" fragrance emitting from it like Chanel. It turns your bath a really pretty pink color, and doesn't emit any junk that will clog up your drain. The only thing that the bath bomb has in it is paper-thin rose petals (synthetic soap like, not real ones) that float around and disappear with the warmth of the bath.

The water turns a pretty light pink color

I love this bath bomb. I think if you want a good first bath bomb experience, I would go look at this one. Although I did find it more uplifting in the scent than relaxing, so keep that in mind. I am going to keep going through the rest and look for one that is relaxing ( I love relaxing scents) but I still love this one and will definitely repurchase it!

xoxo

My View:Urban Decay Lip Primer Potion

2010-03-11T09:37:00.000-08:00

Perhaps because it is overshadowed by the cult-like popularity of its eyeshadow primer cousin, but the lip primer potion by Urban Decay is a product I feel that doesn't get enough love. Well I love this stuff, and think it is an underrated product in the Urban Decay line. Sometimes I like what it does to my lips so much I wear it alone.

It is a balm-like consistency that smooths out and primes the lip for other lip products. While it isn't traditionally something that is meant to tone down the color of very pigmented lips (like MAC lip erase) as it is a clear consistency while applied, I find that it does smooth my lips out so nicely that the color isn't as noticeable or distracting as my lips are pre-product... and trust me, it looks like I had a fight with a cherry popsicle with nothing on, I should know.

It kind of makes your lips look like "your lips but better" or puts your lips through something like a soft focus filter on a camera the way it perfects the lip's canvas. If you have full lips, or lines on your lips you should check this out, it really makes my lips so much better looking. It also does make your lipstick stay on slightly longer, although I don't find it makes my lip products wear all day or anything. But it makes my lips look airbrushed, so product wear aside, I love this baby!

xoxo

I also wanted to thank Sarah for tagging me for another award. Her blog, Sarah xo, is one of my favorites, and she is such a sweetheart! You made my day Sarah, thank you!

I will get on that tag asap, but as you know, I am painfully slow at being able to make posts with all those links in them. Whew, takes a lot out of this blonde's head..haha Thanks again Sarah, love ya!

Don't forget to enter the contest below!

I'm Blushing for You:Contest Time!

2010-03-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

It makes me incredibly happy to have such lovely people who have decided to follow along with my blog. I said I would do a contest when I got above 50 followers, so no time like the present! I am blushing thinking about the number of followers and sweet comments so far, so I wanted this first prize to be what I think is the best blush on the market : )

Prize:

The prize that the winner will win is a choice of two things, both from one my my most favorite makeup brands on the planet, NARS. The prize choice is:

Nars Temptation Set:

It contains Nars Super Orgasm Blush and Orgasm Nailpolish. I bought it specifically for the contest and swatched the tester in Sephora and it looks really beautiful!

I think it's cute!

Your choice of any shade of NARS blush:

This is a pic of some of the NARS blushes I have in my collection so you can get the idea.

Oooh, pretty colors right?! Yours will be brand new from Sephora of course!

I bought the Temptation set at Sephora for the contest, but got mixed reviews about it when I asked people if it was something they would like to win. So I added an option to the winner to choose any shade of NARS blush they want and I will send them that, since some of you might not find that particular blush or nailpolish flattering to their skintone. Thank you Emily for the suggestion!

I also will most likely throw in a few other goodies and samples for the winner : )

Rules:

Only rule I have is that you have to be a follower. I know I had a question about this, and all you have to do to follow is press the "follow" button on the ride side of every page on my blog. It's free and pretty easy to do.

You can be from any country around the world, doesn't matter, as long as I am able to ship to you, I will. If there is some shipping problem with your country (I cant imagine how but haven't sent much overseas besides to Iraq so I don't know) and you win, we can work it out somehow. Also, if you are underage, please ask your parents, because I need your address if you win.

How to Enter:

Just write a comment in this post letting me know you would like to enter ("enter me" is fine) and I will enter you!

When does the contest end?

It will be open to comments until next week, on Tuesday March 16th. Then I will use randomizer.org to pick the winner.

Be sure to enter!!! I don't get that many comments or have that many readers yet, so you have a really good chance to win! Ebay or pawn it if you don't like it, I don't care, it is just supposed to be a little token to thank everyone for reading my blog thusfar : )

Lots of contests and different prizes to come soon too! Good luck!

xoxo

What's in My Bag?:Clutch edition

2010-03-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

So "What's in my Bag/Purse?" posts and videos are some of my favorite. I did one for my everyday bag a while back, but thought I would do one for the clutch I used to go out in last Saturday. I met up with my lovely friend Kristy for sushi and had drinks with her and Ashley and it was so fun. Love you girls <3

I carried a Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Pouchette in Black.

It's always hard for me to carry a clutch because even though I love them I carry so much stuff I can never fit everything in them. It's my goal to edit it down enough to use these on a regular basis, although I might have put my keys into Kristy's purse that night because I refused not to carry less than several lipglosses with me at all times. A girl never knows!

Here is what was in my bag (minus my cell which is a white Google G1, which I hate. I had it in my bag but forgot to include that in the pic, but I want an Iphone anyway, so boo on you G1, no picture for you!):

*A Louis Vuitton Pouch with cards, cash, hairtie etc in it and my keys attached. I use this everytime I go out, its so useful!

*Makeup-

-Mac Blot Powder

-Bobbi Brown Compact with blush/bronzer

-Bobbi Brown touch up concealer stick

-Mini Fresh Supernova mascara

-YSL lipstick

-YSL lipgloss Pur in #1

-Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Pearl Sugar

-Mini Sigma Blush Brush

-Mini Chanel Coco Mademoiselle roll-on purfume (the scent I wear everyday)

-Breath mint drops

How do I manage to have so much lipgloss (which all look the same) and I can't fit my keys or phone in the bag..lol

Any must-haves you tuck in your bag for a night out?

xoxo

Contest up tomorrow!

TAG:Sunshine Blog Tag Award.

2010-03-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

I was tagged and given this award by the very gorgeous Nadia (Urban Mermaid) from her lovely blog It's Always Summer on the Inside. Two awards in one week! I feel so blessed, thank you : )

So cute! Makes me think of warm weather...yay!

I love reading all the lovely blogs of my followers. Reading about beauty, fashion, cakes, books or all the gorgeous stuff you ladies write about brings me sunshine everyday!

I am tagging the following wonderful bloggers/blogs. I found it really hard to do because there were so many blogs on my mind to tag, but many had the tag already etc, so I became confused (haha..its a blonde moment of epic proportions.) If I forgot you and you didn't do the tag, Ill get you next time around darlings, no worry.

Botox Extraordinaire
Megan-A Suitcase and Stilettos
Hattie-Kisssndmakeupbaby
Jennifer-My Fashionable Affair
Fern-Fern Laura

And since stuff besides fashion and beauty brings me sunshine too, I had to include a few other types of blogs in my list too!

Daniella-Dress,Design, Decor-Oh gosh, this blog is so pretty, and has such good interior design pictures, it makes me want to go redecorate my house immediately.
Lizzie-Cakes by Lizzie-uh hello, its cakes..need I say more?!
The Ladies at Book Lover's Delight -a great website if you like reading or books!
Howard-Pursuit of Performance -Not beauty or fashion, but lets show the love to a guy that blogs too! If you or the man in your life likes football (soccer) or exercising tips/tricks, he has a great blog. I bother him with exercise questions all the time, therefore he needs sunshine from me as a thank you! He's a sweetie..you should all bother him with workout questions all the time!

Thanks again Nadia!

I would also like to thank the ladies at Book Lover's Delight for tagging me for their latest award. Since I did it already, and you don't need to know more about my fear of deli meats (LOL), I just wanted to say thanks here to them : ) It's a lovely site you need to go and check out!

Contest post up tomorrow! xoxo

My Hair, Living Proof Thickening Creme and Contest Update

2010-03-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

My Hair:

A couple lovely readers emailed me to ask if they could see what my hair really looked like. I guess cause I was all high and mighty about it being natural and you can't really see it in my profile pic, I happily obliged with attached awkward pic of my hair today taken in my messy bathroom.

Uh, wow, I didn't even realize it was *that* long until I took this picture a few hours ago. I think I need a trim....soon. I kinda look like either Cousin It...or a pony. LOL

So yes, here is my hair. Thrilling, really. I am not sure what color you would say it is, but in real life it is a combination of various shades of blonde and light red. It is redder on the underneath and lighter on the top, most likely due to the sun in the summer when I was younger. Sometimes it looks super blonde in pictures and sometimes it looks really red. My hair is like my own pet chameleon! I now protect it with a sun-protectant spray (I use Frederick Fekkai's) because if you have any red in your hair, natural or otherwise, you know it is the quickest shade to fade from washing, the sun etc.

Living Proof Thickening Creme:

In this pic I am using the new Living Proof Thickening Creme. I like it, and it does seem to volumize the hair nicely. I will use it for a few more weeks though before a full review. Is it me or does stuff like that stop working after a while for you? I feel like it does for me. The rave is on hold until proved otherwise through the next few weeks, although I was very happy with it the first time I used it (today).

Update: Day 2 of the Living Proof use and it worked beautifully when I curled my hair in soft, big waves. Made it look really lush and full. Ah, I hope this never stops working!

Enough rambling about the hair. Look for more ramblings in further posts on how I changed it from being fried to healthy and growing like a weed.

Contest:

My contest will go up early this week, most likely Tuesday, so look out for it! It will be open to all followers worldwide! Something special from NARS will be the grand prize, which I think it pretty exciting. I love NARS : )

xoxo!

My Favorite Things:Chanel Sunglasses

2010-03-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Well, not just Chanel sunglasses, but big, glamourous sunglasses are always a favorite of mine because they make anyone and any outfit look more chic and put together. My favorite brand of sunglasses happens to be Chanel. I think they make the most gorgeous sunglasses known to man. I have several, but the newest and most favorite pair of sunglasses that is in my bag at the moment are these little lovelies:

A good, big, dark pair of sunglasses can do a lady wonders. Even when you feel like death warmed over like me this week, you can look alive and glamourous with these babies!

They can even conceal your how bad you look with a cold (is it me or does makeup not even help when you are sick?!) and annoyance at waiting in rush-hour traffic today.

What sunglasses are in your bag at the moment?

Happy Friday everyone!

xoxo

My First Award!

2010-03-04T09:10:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank the academy..and my mom and dad...

Kidding! But I was very honored that Irene at Lovely Violet (a beautiful girl with an equally beautiful blog that I adore reading!) gave me my first blog award.

Thanks so much Irene! Your blog is so beautiful, I am happy to be in your company!

I am supposed to now talk about 7 facts about me. Prepare to be fascinated people...(insert sarcasm) I'm sick..I don't have much creative energy now:

1. My hair color is natural. Most people don't believe that, since it is an unusual color (strawberry blonde is what it is usually described as, but gets lighter and darker with the seasons and sun)..but I haven't colored my hair, in any capacity, in my life.

2. I have an unnatural fear of deli meats and sandwiches in general. I think they are the grossest thing imaginable, and can't even stand to look at them. Never had a traditional sandwich in my life!

3. My family is my heart. My mom is my best friend and the happiest moments in my life have been memories of time spent on vacation or just hanging out with my dad, my mom and my little brother : )

4. I LOVE pigs. I've had a little stuffed pig named piggy since I was a child, and she is still in my room today. She was named after my favorite character of all time...Miss Piggy from the Muppets!

5. Neuropsychology and fashion are my two favorite subjects. I studied the former at The George Washington University in Washington D.C. and decided instead of medical school, I would study the later at art school, where I am now. Now that I have fashion as homework, I read biology and psychology texts as play reading, and when I was in college I did the opposite! I'm quite the science nerd : p

6. Most people don't know it from looking at me, but I LOVE sports! Well...watching them, not really playing them. I love watching a lot of different kinds of sports but I love hockey, football and college basketball the most and get really serious about my teams. I wasn't born or raised there, but since my parents were, I am a Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pitt fan till I die!

7. I was born on May 27 and a I have total Gemini's personality. If you read anything about Gemini's, it describes me to a tee. A great majority of people in my life that I click with right away turn out to be Gemini's. Love you Poodle!

Now I am supposed to pass the award onto 7 more lovely bloggers. It was hard to choose, but my winners are:

1.Mai Philosophy
2.Glamour Rouge
3.Black and White Collage
4.Style Nirvana
5.Pearls and Poodles
6.Juicygirl's
7.Sarah Xo

I have a list of ladies I didn't mention and whose blogs I love too. I had Jessica Alice's blog on here but she won the award already! Let me know if you won this award, I wouldn't want to repeat. There are so many great blogs out there! Next time around, I promise! I love all of you!

Don't forget to read Irene's lovely blog too! Lovely Violet!

xoxo

Lush Bath:Part I

2010-03-01T12:37:00.000-08:00

I decided to take a bath last night, to relax and use my new set I just reviewed from Lush, "Let's get Fizzical." That name still cracks me up...

I thought I would record my use of all the ones, so people shopping at Lush might get a better idea of which bath bombs they might like. There are so many, I think its hard to decide sometimes.

So which one did I choose this time?

The cute little blue guy! Blue is my favorite color, so it was an easy choice. This one is called "Big Blue." It is supposed to smell of lavender and lime and have seaweed and sea salt in it to relax you and soften the skin.

This is what my bathtub and bathwater looked like before the bath bomb.

A glass of wine et bath bomb = perfect combo

Closer look of the water pre bath bomb:

Now this is what happens when you put the bath bomb in the water. Warning: this is way too fun and addicting. It is like those experiments you did in elementary school where you added baking soda to a mix and it became a foaming volcano.

And this is what the water looked like after the bath bomb did its work:

It turned the water a really pretty turquoise color. It also made it look like I had gone rolling around in mulch even before I got in because that stuff that looks like dirt on the bottom of the pool is the seaweed. You could also feel the sea salt in the tub too. I thought the smell tended to disappear once it hit the water, but left the water feeling soft and smooth. I enjoyed the bath, but wasn't a fan of that seaweed on the bottom of the tub to be honest, although it did all go down the drain easily once I was done.

Overall, I like this one, I did think my skin was soft and the bath relaxing. I wish it smelled more though. But I do have a cold so perhaps I am not smelling it like I wish I did. I would repurchase so far, but want to go through the rest of the ones before I have a final decision on this one.

xoxo!

February Favorites:Part II-Beauty Edition

2010-02-27T08:15:00.000-08:00

Here is the second part of my favorites for the month of February. I found it hard to narrow down the beauty products (in general and in this post..hehe), so I think a few things will spill over into March.

They are:

Estee Lauder Bronzing Blush-From their "Bronze Goddess" collection for summer. So beautiful when swirled together. I use it on top of any blush for a warm, defined glow.(it is the zebra like blush on the far left)

Urban Decay Razor Sharp Finishing Powder-gives an airbrushed finish on my skin and doesn't break me out

Nars Exhbit A Blush-looks So scary in the pan, but gives a beautiful, natural flush on the skin. Just use very lightly!

Mac Scene Eyeshadow-the best lid color for a smokey eye. Makes my eyes look super blue.

Benefit Skinny Jeans Creaseless Cream Shadow-A contributer to the "best smokey eyes ever" as mentioned above. Underneath Mac's "scene" or any smokey shade it makes it all that more dramatic and gorgeous. You can pry this out of my cold, dead hands before I would do a smokey eye without it.

Urban Decay Lip Primer Potion-For those that have lined, full or just look for smoother lips, this is great. It makes the product on top of it last marginally longer, but gives the most perfect canvas for lipcolor (smooth and gorgeous), that sometimes I wear it alone!

Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden-Best primer potion yet. Love how it makes my lids look flawless.

Korres Bronzer in 01- A light, natural color that is slightly dewy looking (no harcore shimmer or anything) on the skin as opposed to a flat bronzer, and is just beautiful on fairer skins like mine.

Mac Lip Erase-an HG for my pigmented lips. Its a sheer balm that doesn't dry (who hasn't tried concealer) tones down the pigment of the lips to make your lippies look more true.

Some close-ups of a few products...

Benefit Skinny Jeans Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow

Mac Lip Erase (a pro product, and goes on like a sheer balm)

Mac Scene Eyeshadow

Korres Bronzer in 01

Nars Exhibit A Blush

Urban Decay Ultra Sharp Finishing Powder

Estee Lauder Bronzing Blush

Here is to a fabulous March everyone! xoxo

Suggestions For a Contest Prize

2010-02-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

So my blog is little over a month old, and I have really enjoyed this so much more than I ever thought I would. I thought my lovely mother and I would be the only two reading this, and have been so happy that a few people have found me (I still can't find me online..haha) and have read my blog, despite the fact that its new and a work in progress. Here is serene picture of the Ritz in Arizona to get you in a relaxed place and thinking....

Ahhhh....it will get warm soon in the Northeast, right?

I wanted to have a contest when I reach around 50-75 subscribers (I hope that isn't forever!). It would be open to anyone that is a follower in any country, since I know I have some beautiful people reading outside the U.S. too. Just wanted to know if anyone has a suggestion or request for a prize they would like to win. I was thinking a NARS blush, since I have a post of my NARS blush collection coming up. Everyone loves blush, right!? Perhaps those lovely followers outside the U.S. would want something found here they can't get elsewhere? I could have two prizes...

Anyway, if you have any ideas, or want to suggest something, feel free! I'm sitting here waiting for your ideas..hehe

If you don't have any suggestions or don't want to write anything, no biggie, I always find something fabulous to buy : )

Happy Friday everyone!

xoxo

February Favorites:Part I-Fashion Edition

2010-02-25T08:35:00.000-08:00

I love reading and watching everyone's monthly favorites on blogs and youtube, so I decided that I was going to do one of my own. It is in two parts, the first one being fashion and the second is beauty.

Some of these things are often just perennial favorites and would show up in a favorites post every month, but I will try and include some unique things each month that I am particularly excited about. Hope everyone had a good February!

The two handbags I have worn the most this month are both by Louis Vuitton and in the Speedy 30 shape and size:

*Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Speedy 30-I found this an unexpected favorite this month, as I usually only use this cream and blue bag in the summer. But I found it looked chic and fresh with all the very dark skinny jeans and navy that I wore this month (and all winter), and added a little pop of lightness to those outfits. Very cute.

*Louis Vuitton Epi Black Speedy 30-a staple and most used purse this winter for me. It goes with everything and the leather is beautiful!

*Tory Burch Reva Flats-these are an all-time fav and I have them in several colors. I love them. They are comfy and go with everything. These are a snakeskin print grey color that looked lovely with charcoal and navy this month. I love my Reva's!

*Cartier Watch-makes everything look better. I love this every month!

*Juicy Couture Down Dog Couture Yoga Jacket-I am loving the new line of yoga-wear by Juicy entitled "Down Dog Couture." This is a simple jacket in light sweatshirt material with the signature "J" zipper pull. I love how much stretch is in the fabric, it makes it *so* comfy, and the longer length is wonderful when paired with yoga pants or leggings. I have it in black and grey and hope they come out with more colors soon!

Not the best on the hanger..but it is super cute in real life!

And finally my last favorite, which wouldn't fit in the last picture. Most likely the most worn item of the month for me.

My Burberry rain boots! These have been a complete savior for the slushy-grossness that is Northeastern U.S. streets this month. I recently got a pair of plain black Hunter ones, but have not gotten to wear them. A review is in the future for those. Does anyone have any? Do you like them?

What are your February favorites?!

xoxo

My View:Bare Escentuals Buxom Balm

2010-02-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

I have never been a die-hard fan of Bare Escentuals, I think the fact that the foundations so didn't work for me is the reason I steer clear or am uninterested in the brand in general. I have not tried the "Buxom" line of lipglosses, mascara and liner until I picked up the newest incarnations of the line-the balm and liner (review on liner to come) recently. And I must say, I have been pleased with the results.

I like the balm a lot. The container is bulky, cheap and plastic to me, although I think the balm inside is lovely. I am usually not one to love swiping my finger in a balm, but I would make this one an exception. It is very hydrating and gives a beautiful shine and finish to the lips that I see as a middle ground between a hugely shiny gloss and a more matte or flat lipbalm. It isn't unpleasantly sticky, but still seems to stay on the lip for a good period of time. It seems like the perfect daytime lip product to me. Not too much, but still a pretty healthy look.

I do not however, buy that the balm plumps your lips. My lips are very full to begin with, so I guess I am not the best subject since I don't want my lips plumped, but I see most products that claim to be "lip plumpers" to be utter bull. They either contain an irritant (like cinnamon oil ) that temporarily swells the lips sometimes, or they provide a hydrated, shiny appearance to the lip, which makes anyones lips stand out. It doesn't mean it makes the lips "fuller", I think you gotta get in injection for that (..don't get me started on how unnatural those usually look..plus needles..no thanks!)

This one isn't tingly and doesn't have that irritant, so I see the hydrating and glossy appearance to perhaps make the lips more prominent, but I don't see them being any fuller. It comes in several cute colors and I have it in "copacabana." This is a very sheer (they all are) nude beige color, that looks basically natural and clear on my pigmented lips. There is also a gorgeous bright pink (Waikiki), a sheer violet, and a few berry/red colors. They all look great, and the pink and violet ones are definitely on my list for spring. I like the pretty natural finish and the fact that it is so hydrating, so overall I have been really pleased with the product so far. I also like that the interior of the container has a little mirror in it : )

I also think right now they are available only in Sephora, so go check it out!

xoxo

Update: Here is what the balm looks like on my lips. Note that I have on MAC's Lip Erase on underneath to make the color more true. I always wear the Lip Erase or Urban Decay's Lip Primer Potion underneath any lip product because my lips are super pigmented and appear bright red alone. This always messes with how colors show up on my lips so I tone them down before I apply anything. I'm shy with pics of me but I think I'll start to post more. Thanks guys : )

My Favorite Things: The Four Seasons Maui

2010-02-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

For those of you suffering from cabin fever, lots of snow and cold temps, I thought I would add a hotel review today. I plan on reviewing every hotel I go to, and started with the new Ritz Carlton in Dove Mountain, AZ earlier in the year. And even though this isn't a current review, as I went this past summer, I had to include it because it is perhaps my favorite hotel and place in the world. I'll will keep the reviews for recent trips only from now on though. (One exception might be the Four Seasons Las Vegas, which was a stop-over on this trip and a lovely place as well. )

The pictures in no way do the hotel or the place justice. It is so beautiful it really takes your breath away. It is constantly ranked as the best hotel in Hawaii and among the highest rated hotels in the world by magazines like Conde Nast, and when you get here, you have no doubt that is true.

View from the room

The Lobby

The concierge level here was second to none, and all the ladies here took care of us, and couldn't have been more friendly and welcoming! (for why the concierge level is so great, look at my previous post, or see the free champagne pic from the concierge lounge below, and know why I liked it so much!) You can also see a bit of the perfectly manicured grounds in this picture. The entire place didn't have a leaf or blade of grass out of place, I enjoyed their attention to detail and perfection.

Up in the Conceirge Level

The beach was beautiful, but I must say the Pacific isn't the tranquil, clear water of the Carribean or anything. It got pretty rough if you went out past morning, and was prettier to look at than to play around it. I stuck to the beautiful pool area and its cabanas.

On the cliffs in a beach chair facing the Pacific

The Beach

They had a large main pool with a beautiful fountain in the middle where I spent most of my time. You could get these cabanas, which came with beach chairs, tables and much needed shade. They also brought around cool water misters, frozen fruit, sunscreen, cucumber slices and other goodies compliments of the resort for the guests by the pool as well as roving people from the spa giving hand, foot or back massages. It was truly heaven!

View from my cabana..of another cabana!

Pool and Cabanas in background

The Pool lit up at night

The guest rooms were plush and updated. They all had marble bathrooms stocked with L'Occitane products (score!), beautiful balconies and all the amenities you could want. The food was amazing in every restaurant we went to, and includes a off shoot of Wolfgang Puck's famous Cali eatery Spago. They used all fresh, organic and high quality ingredients everywhere we went that were found local as much as possible, so they support and maintain the fishermen, farmers and cattle ranchers of the state. I couldn't have been happier here, and if you can go once in your lifetime (or more), this is the place to stay. You will not regret it.

And finally because the island itself is so pretty, I included a few pics of our travels around the island...

I think they call this Shark Bay..eek!

Road to Hana

The famous black sand beaches on the island..there are red ones too!

On the highest point in Maui..Haleakala..watching the sunrise.

It was freezing (in June) and over 10,000 ft above sea level

Before the sun comes up..the sky really is illuminated all those colors!

xoxo

What's in the Box?!

2010-02-18T14:41:00.000-08:00

...well I guess it's more of a tin really. I went over to my local Lush counter today and picked up a couple things that needed replenishing. Since I have been working nonstop, both the gym and schoolwork kind, I have been stressed and unable to do anything to relax recently, I went and got myself a little pick-me-up gift that is brand new and quite adorable if you ask me! So...what's in the box (tin) you ask?

*cue Olivia Newton John music*

It's a new set of nine of their most popular bath bombs called "Let's Get Fizzical." Oh Lush, you crack me up with your clever names sometimes. Everytime I say the same to myself in my head, I go into a chorus of that Olivia Newton John song. Hmmm...maybe it's me.

Anyway, it comes in above colorful tin, which is not my taste at all, but it so cheery and colorful that it is a pleasure to look at and have to brighten the dull, gray, snowy weather we have had recently. I am enjoying the tin more than I thought I would. I think it would be good to keep other Lush products in once this is done.

The bath bombs themselves are not full-size, and for some reason when I saw it online I thought they would be. I do not have a full-size bath bomb to compare them to in pics, but I would say they are about 1/3 smaller than the regular size ones. They are plenty to have a nice bath in, and actually I think that Lush should make the bath bombs in this size and then the bigger size in individuals so you can choose. I see the big ones as a waste oftentimes. I also have a HUGE soaking tub/jacuzzi, so if these mini's are big enough for that, they will be big enough for everyone.

The bath bombs contained in this container are as follows (I included a short description of each from the Lush website):

Top row, starting on left:

*Blackberry-blackcurrent and frankincense

*Bon Bomb-mango butter with citrus. It smells EXACTLY like that powdered lemonade you added to water that I drank when I was a kid.

*Butterball-vanilla musk

Middle row:

*Honey Bee-honey-toffee

*Think Pink-vanilla and tonka bean

*Street Party-they say its scented like a "champagne cocktail" and has glitter in it (it is new for the Olympics; the big size even had little flags in it!)

Bottom Row:

*Big Blue-lavender and lime with sea salt and seaweed

*Sex Bomb-jasmine, sage and ylang-ylang

*Avobath-zingy lemongrass

I think it's a great pick-me-up gift to yourself or someone you love. It gives you a chance to try nine different kinds of bath bombs, which would be much more if bought separately, and see which one's you like the best. Then you know which ones are your favorites and which to buy full size. I think I might go get one to give away to a follower in the future too, who knows?!

If anyone wants a full description of scent or any specifics of a particular bath bomb, please let me know, I would be happy to do that! I'll probably update with each one as I use them anyway.

xoxo

p.s. Tip: If you have a jacuzzi tub like me, or worry about your drain, I would suggest popping the bath bombs that have full on glitter chunks in a pair of old stockings or some cheesecloth. That way you can enjoy all the effects, minus the mess. The drain or jacuzzi won't get clogged up with glitter or chunks, which I cringe thinking about. I don't wanna clean that mess up!

Exciting Beauty News: Rodarte and MAC!

2010-02-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

I can take or leave MAC at times, but I must say they often come up with some brilliant ideas. Some news broke today, through Women's Wear Daily, that MAC will be doing a collaboration with Rodarte for a collection available later in the year. Wahoo..I LOVE Rodarte!

"Due in September, the line is inspired by Rodarte’s fall 2010 show and is expected to be available in all MAC doors globally. MAC has provided makeup artistry support to Rodarte’s runway shows since 2006, including today’s show.(wwd.com)"

I am pretty excited for this collection, even though it is far away. Rodarte is perhaps not what you would wear on an everyday basis, but I see the clothing as creative and beautiful. I hope that will translate to the makeup as well! No further info was given on the collection but I have a few pictures from the show to show to get the idea of the collection it will be based upon.

I usually don't like using others pictures, but here is the link to take a look (its also a great site I read daily, you should check it out!) http://jezebel.com/5473184//gallery/gallery/7

xoxo

My View: NARS Orgasm Illuminator

2010-02-15T10:32:00.000-08:00

Oh NARS, how I love you, let me count the ways.....

So I love Nars cosmetics in general, and that includes their most famous product, Orgasm blush. I bought Orgasm blush the month it came out, many many years ago, because I heard the buzz about it and had to have it. (I still remember my mom being like "what?!" in Saks when I asked for it..hehe) I love it, and think it is one of the most lovely blushers out there.

Orgasm Blush

It's pinky-peachy-gold glory has been made into several incarnations since then; a nailpolish (very nice but doesn't do much on my fair skintone), a "super orgasm" blush (which is basically just all chunky glitter) and a lipgloss (lovely, albeit sheer). Now the famous color has been made into a liquid illuminator, and the minute I knew about it, I had to have it. Since getting it, my feelings have been mixed.

At first, I was disappointed at the size. It is 1.7oz and no bigger than a foundation, so I wonder how Nars thinks we could put it all over your body for a glow, like they recommend. It certainly wouldn't last long. It's pretty small for the price of almost $30, and I think that is something you might have to consider if you want to buy it.

A big glob on the hand

I also tested it on my hand and at first saw nothing but a sheer gold glimmer. This disappointed me. The pics on my hand aren't really gorgeous looking because I had to glob on a lot to get it to show up for the camera. I then tried it with a larger amount and did see that it provided the same exact color as the blush, just in liquid shimmer version. So I guess you have to use somewhat of a large amount to get the color to show through. That being said, when the color does show, it is really pretty in person. I can imagine it on my (faux) tanned skin in the summer being gorgeous. Although if you have very fair skin like me, I think you should go test it first, as the color I don't see as complimentary on my skin right now, being as fair as it is. I prefer the blush version on my fair skin right now.

Rubbed in a little

Overall I am going to keep it because I think it will be lovely for the summer. Although if you have very fair skin, or will be disappointed to spend $30 on a tiny tube, I think you should think twice and look at it in person before ordering. Also if you don't have the blush and want to order this, I would order the blush first. I think it is much more useful.

xoxo

My View:Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel

2010-02-12T11:22:00.000-08:00

I figure I could use a little sunshine in my life, as the recent week or so has been nothing but snow, snow and more snow. I got this product probably last summer and it still doesn't have much of a dent in it (cut to not-so-savory picture of what it looks like inside after many months of being molested by my stippling brush) and I love it. Plus isn't it so cute?! It looks fabulous on your vanity!

It is a very..interesting consistency that is hard to describe unless you have it. It is a creamy, dry somewhat hardish mousse consistency and goes to buff on the skin providing a beautiful warm glow. It is not shimmery at all, but still lends s life to the skin since it isn't a traditional powder.

That picture doesn't look so pretty, but it is really beautiful on the skin. You can use it in many different ways. As a base under makeup, a base where the sun would hit before powder bronzer if you want to be really bronze, and a bronzer or a cheek color on its own. It also is nice for contour, especially in hollow of the cheek. I like using a stippling duo fibre or "skunk" brush to apply it (the ones with the two colors, black and then white at the tips), and I think its the best kind of brush to give the most natural look. I like the MAC 187 or the Sephora Professional (the silver handle) one the best.

It's the closest to the tropics I'm getting at the moment!

I'll leave you with a pic of the view out my great room window. It looks pretty, but I can't wait for all of it to be gone!

xoxo

DIY Glam:Sugar Lip Scrub

2010-02-10T09:55:00.000-08:00

I have been basically held hostage inside my house since last weekend because of a snowstorm that left over 20 inches of snow on the ground. Well we had another 8 or so inches last night and although I was able to get out for groceries between storms, I haven't been able to go anywhere in a while. I think Sephora misses me.

Since I haven't been able to go anywhere, and my lips have been so dry because of the freezing weather, I decided to whip up a tasty and effective homemade lip scrub. I don't suggest eating it, but it does taste pretty good on your lips.

It is really simple. All you need is brown sugar and honey. I added a pack of raw sugar also to increase the intensity of the scrubbing, because I needed that, although I would suggest just sticking to the brown sugar if you are unsure. I wish I had organic brown sugar or honey in the house, but since I didn't, I just used what I had. I also have here some little pots I found around the house to stick the scrub in.

Mix brown sugar and honey together in a bowl...and voila! It's as easy as that!

Pretty effective too..it won't save your life..but I see it as just as good as any lip scrub I have bought at what would be 100x the price.

xoxo

My View:Benefit Powderazzi

2010-02-08T05:19:00.000-08:00

This is a really cute set by Benefit, encasing 3 of their popular boxed powders in one. This one has Coralista (a pinky-coral flush of color), Dallas (a dusty rose-bronze color that could be used as blush, bronzer or contour depending on skin color) and Hoola (a light matte tan bronzer). I love the idea of this and am happy I got it..although it wasn't exactly what I expected

....meaning it was a lot smaller than I expected!

It is very small samples of each, and I guess I was expecting something slightly larger and sturdier, since their original boxed powders are so big! Considering it is less than the price of one of the powders themselves, I guess I shouldn't have expected that much, but I was a little let down. That being said, I think it is a great idea for those that do not have the full-size version of the powders, or like them so much they want one small compact to travel with. The powders themselves seem to be of the same high quality as the originals. I wanted to review this also because it might be another nice alternative if you are looking to try the infamous Coralista blush I reviewed last week.

It's cute, isn't it?!

Dallas-top left;Coralista-top right;Hoola-bottom right

What can I say, I am a sucker for blush!

xoxo

My Favorite Things: A Good Stud Earring

2010-02-05T11:13:00.000-08:00

Something short and sweet for friday!

I think a nice, classic stud earring is another great addition to a girl's wardrobe. These earrings are David Yurman "cookie" earrings and they are my favorite. I like that they are 18k and sterling silver so they go with everything The little pave diamonds don't hurt either..lol I also have a cute necklace to match. I love David Yurman!

What are your favorite earrings?

Happy weekend everyone!

My View:30 Day Shred

2010-02-04T16:03:00.000-08:00

I have been working out and eating healthier since the end of last summer and I can barely type this right now because I did my first day of Jillian Michael's DVD 30 Day Shred (actually the first level, of which there are three, is available through Comcast cable On Demand's Exercise TV, so if you are in the USA and a Comcast customer, check it out for free, that is what I did)...boy did this DVD kick my butt!

I had to write about this and recommend it to anyone looking to lose weight, tone up, start exercising or switch up their exercise routine. I had complications from a medicine I took previously and I gained weight as a result, which was devastating to me. Being a former model, I find myself concerned about being slim more than most. So far, I have lost over 20lbs and am back to a slim frame, but now I want to be healthy, strong and get super toned for summer!

This workout is about 20 minutes long..and I thought how hard could it be? Trust me, its challenging! It consists of a "circuit" type workout, where you do 2 minutes of strength-training, 2 minutes of cardio and then 1 minute of abs and then repeat the cycle. It has three levels that you are supposed to start working up to, and are cautioned not to start the next level until you are ready. From how sore I predict to be, I am sure I will be on Level 1 for a while.

Just wanted to share this, even though it isn't beauty or fashion related, because I know how hard it is to lose weight, and this is a great quick (only 20 minutes, so no "I'm too busy" excuses!) and really effective way to get your body moving. You only need a mat and some hand weights and can workout in the privacy of your home. It can be found online on various sites for well under $20, and it worth that and so much more to get us a little healthier. Check this one out ladies, its fantastic!

xoxo

Benefit Coralista Dupe

2010-02-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

This is both a rave for Korres blush in general as well as a tip to show what is an EXACT dupe of Benefit Coralista blush, at a slightly lower price.

I love the color of Coralista, it is a pinky-coral flush and lovely, especially in the summer. I do not get much pigment from it though, and more get a shimmer than the actual pigment when I use it. When I was going through my blush collection though, I saw that a particular and neglected Korres blush is literally the same exact color as Coralista, with what I see as a better pigment and color payoff on the skin. The Korres blush is in the shade "peach", but it is really a pretty peachy-pink.

Flash

No Flash

See, flash or no flash, the color is exactly the same!

Seriously guys, this blush even feels the same as Coralista. It is that really soft, finely milled, texture of Benefit with a better color payoff. It looks so beautiful on the skin...it makes me long for tropical weather. Now, I don't want anyone getting it mixed up and thinking this has a super pigmented finish. Both of these blushes I don't see having the same intense pigmentation as some blushes, like those from NARS, but they are soft and give the cheeks a beautiful flush nonetheless.

It is also less expensive, which is always great, although marginally so. The Korres blush is $24 and Benefit is $28, although there is a code for the Korres website so often, you can get the blush for 30% off more often than not (I know I did), so with that considered, I think it would be good to check out. Korres is also a lovely brand in general, with an emphasis on natural and organic products going into their skincare, haircare and makeup. I have enjoyed everything I have tried from them. Happy blushing!

xoxo

My View:Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden

2010-02-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

This is the newest rendition of the famous Urban Decay Primer Potion. The original is a favorite of mine, and I think it is hands down the best eyeshadow primer out there. If you haven't tried eyeshadow primer in general...it will change your life. I was never able to use eyeshadow before I used this, as they would be blah in color, crease and disappear on me within what seems like minutes. This stuff helps your colors stay vibrant and last for hours. Fabulous!

In respect to Eden, it is kind of what I wanted the original to be. I used to use a skintone MAC paint pot overtop of the original to give me a more opaque and perfect lid. With Eden, you don't even have to! The original is fine, although it is more sheer and doesn't cover as much as I would like. Eden is liked a pumped up version of the original, and is a more opaque, nude color that makes my eyelids look flawless. The only other one is called "Sin" and is a shimmery champagne, which is fine if you like that look, although I prefer to have a base without shimmer. Eden is the most opaque out of the three, and becoming my favorite of the lot. Loves it!

If you have any discoloration or like to have a very even, perfect canvas for eyeshadow, then definitely try out Eden. I love it even when I am not wearing eyeshadow for a "your-eyelids-but-better" look. My only hesitation in getting this would be if you have a very rich or deep skintone. Perhaps the more sheer, original version would be better as this might make your eyelids unnaturally white. But I would say to a great majority of people, this would work beautifully. Great addition to the line Urban Decay. Brava!

xoxo

Valentine's Day Gift Guide-Under $50

2010-02-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

Happy February everyone!

So Valentine's Day is coming up, and even though there is no romantic love this year for me, my mom is my valentine, and I couldn't ask for a better one : )

So if you are single like me, or just looking to buy something for someone you love in your life like a mom, sister, friend, aunt, cousin...whomever...a little gift to say "I love you", I decided to compile a few things I have seen around that I think would make a great gift. And since we all want to be fabulous and not broke...I wanted to keep this gift guide all under $50. The greatest gift would be to spend some quality time with the person you love, no gift needed or money spent...but if you can swing it..every girl loves to open a little something sometimes!

Sephora Favorites-Give Me Some Lip Valentine's Day Favorites -This is a deluxe sampler from Sephora that includes a chance to try 7 of Sephora's most popular pink and red lipsticks! It includes 6 sample size and 1 full size Korres lipstick and it cute as can be. It's $25 and found only online at sephora.com.

A YSL Lipstick- They are some of the most luxurious, beautiful formulations around and they would be a great, elegant gift for someone you love. Very chic packaging and beautiful application. They have several formulas, but I think the prettiest is the Rougue Volupte, which is linked here. They all run around $30 and I think they are a beautiful idea for the holiday.

A Personalized Starbucks Card-I know this is kind of like a gift card and not the most romantic to some, but if you love your Starbucks as much as my mom and I do, then this is a good idea. They have a new rewards program where you can sign someone up for a card, which you can personalize with their name or a special image, natch, and then after a certain number of drinks you get one free! I can taste the Cappuccino's I love to have with mom right now!

Tiffany Little Blue Book Journal- Who wouldn't want to get a bag from Tiffany's for Valentine's day? I wanted to keep the gifts under $50 (this is $45), so I chose the adorable leather bound journal printed in their signature "Tiffany Blue" color. So cute, right?! Perhaps its the fact that my favorite color is a light version of Tiffany blue (more into the light Robin's egg blue, if ya wanted to know) is the reason I love this, but I think its a nice thoughtful present to give anyone. Under $50 and still from Tiffany's! Writing a little note inside how much you love that person, and you already have the wrapping done for you a with their signature box and bow. Perfect!

NARS Love Me Set -Well it is called the "Love Me" set, so how perfect is that for Valentine's Day? It includes one of the best blushes and highlighters around (Orgasm and Albatross respectively) in a cute duo palette, as well as Nars lipgloss in orgasm, which is a lovely peachy pink shimmer, and is a pretty color to top any lipstick or worn alone. Very cute!

Well those are just a few suggestions for you to ponder. Happy Valentine's shopping everyone! xoxo

My View:Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge

2010-01-29T12:29:00.000-08:00

I really like Bobbi Brown's pot rouge's. They really give your cheeks a fresh, dewy, wanna pinch-your-cheeks kinda glow. I have had them for some time, and my recent purchase, and subsequent return, of the MAC cremeblend blushes reminded me of just how lovely they are. (The MAC blushes are a lovely product, but broke me out. If they agree with your skin, I recommend them, although I tend to have problems with a lot of MAC skin stuff.)

I have five. The colors from the top are described in the photo below. They are (from Top Left) Pink Raspberry, Calypso Coral, Raspberry, Summer Tan and Pale Pink. Sorry for the various swirls and finger marks; they are a well-loved product in my collection.

They are not a dry texture which I normally like in creme blushes, but as they are supposed to be for eyes and lips, and the creamy, almost buttery, texture works well here. They might not have the best staying power for me since they are so creamy and I am so oily, but I find setting it with a powder blush, or even a light translucent powder helps the staying power. I applied the pale pink today, and the beautiful flush I got was so natural and pretty, it made me want it to be summer! The product gives you that gorgeous flush I just love in summertime. I tend to think Bobbi Brown's whole line, in general, is quality, beautiful stuff. These little beauties are no different!

They retail for $22 and come in about 10 different shades. There is a lot of product in there too, it will last your forever!

xoxo

P.S-If you are interested in the shades available now, I looked on bobbibrowncosmetics.com and listed the shades available here for everyone.

Cabo Coral-A pink nectar

Calypso Coral-A bright coral

Blushed Rose-A brown pink

Chocolate Cherry-A red brown

Milk Chocolate-A chocolate brown

Pale Pink-A bright pastel pink

Pink Truffle-A red pink

Powder Pink-A light pink

Raspberry-A deep raspberry pink

Velvet Plum-A red plum

My Favorite Things: A Good Watch

2010-01-27T17:21:00.000-08:00

The watch pictured is my one of my favorite things and something I wear almost everyday. I see a quality, classic watch as one of the true foundations to having a a great wardrobe. I received this watch from my parents when I graduated high school..quite a few years ago! It is still beautiful and something I wear everyday. There are plenty of beautiful watches at all price points, and I think investing in one at any level is a great idea, especially one in a classic style. I was tempted to get the Chopard "Happy Diamonds" watch, (oh how I love their happy diamond line!), but I am glad I went with the perhaps what I saw as more "boring" choice (I was in high school); because it is something I wear to this day and will continue to wear well into the future.

This watch is the "Panthere de Cartier" in the small stainless-steel style. This specific watch model that has been discontinued, but there is a similar style that looks almost identical. I think the new style is also the "Panthere" style as this is a panther-link bracelet.

I have to say I love this watch, but I am loving the look of white watches at the moment. My other favorite dream watch would be the white Chanel J12 ceramic watch. So gorgeous!

What is your favorite watch?

xoxo

Haul Time:MAC-Price Increase?

2010-01-26T14:19:00.000-08:00

I have been pretty good at curbing the buying of beauty items I sorely do not need, however, I did receive a little package on my doorstep today courtesy of maccosmetics.com. I always seem to have a on/off relationship with this brand, but they do really have some quality stuff that is fun and affordable compared to other department-store brands. *Edited to include possible price increase at bottom*

I received:

Brush Cleanser

15 Eyeshadow Palette- I have too many single ones. It's time to depot to travel easier!

Eyeshadow pan in Gesso-A vivid, matte white

Eyeshadow pan in Blanc Type-A creamy beige, nice pigmentation. I like it better than Brule. Matte2 formula.

Okay, those look similar in photos, but they are very different in person.

The last two are from the MAC in Lillyland collection and the reason behind my ordering. I have "Joie de Vivre" and loved it (a beautiful pinky-coral, much less orange than it looks in the pan) and wanted the other two that would work for my coloring. The fourth was an orange tone that would be lovely on those with different coloring, but with strawberry-blonde hair, any kind of orange is a problem for me. Overall though, they are a lovely dry texture that still blends beautifully into the skin. They are drier than the creme blushes, which on my oily skin, slip and slide off me in the blink of an eye.

Cremeblend Blush in Florida-lovely bright, hot pink (On the right)

Cremeblend Blush in So Sweet, So Easy-soft, light pink and it is similar to Bobbi Brown's pot rogue in pale pink. (On the Left)

*Something to Note: I do think the one cremeblend blush I have might be breaking me out (I have some issues with their skin stuff)...so these might be going back. If you are acne-prone, watch out. I am researching it further and not sure if it is the blush or not, but keep an eye out.

Price Increase?!!!

When I wrote this yesterday I was unaware that MAC was planning on a price increase, effective around Jan 31/Feb 1. Many say this rumor is true and say that the prices on eyeshadow are going up from $14.50 to $17.50 and the MSFN going up from something like $25 to $32. No one knows for sure, but the empty palettes seem to be the item most likely to go up in price, of around $2. Personally, I think raising prices of almost 30% on some items would be an ill-timed mistake on the part of MAC. If you raise prices, perhaps you could in small increments like you have before, to make the increase easier to accept for a lot of people that are still hurting in the recession. I also think MAC (or their parent company Estee Lauder) should take a good, hard look at their brand identity (I'm taking a bunch of marketing classes, what can I say?) and realize they are not Dior or Chanel. Even though after the price increase they still might be cheaper than these brands, they are taking away a strength of the brand identity that lead many to buy from them, and that is quality makeup at affordable prices, lower than others in the department store. Tsk, tsk MAC...I'm disappointed in you if this is true.

Well, it might not be true, but you may want to go get a few must-haves before this takes place everyone.

xoxo

My View: Lorac Aquaprime Primer - A Silicone-Free Wonder!

2010-01-25T15:04:00.000-08:00

A lot of people are very black and white about how they feel about primers. You like them or you see no need for them. If you can go without, and don't like em..more power to you! But I am on the side of the fence that I enjoy primers and think they do serve a purpose. Perhaps its more psychological than anything, but I like something that smooths out my skin before I put on liquid foundation. I don't like the feeling of slapping on foundation on my bare skin, and since my skin is so oily, it always seems to sink in and disappear immediately on me without primer. My problem has always been finding a primer that works for me, and doesn't break me out horribly. This has not been an easy feat.

However, I have found one recently that does both. First off, I have to tell you that I cannot use primers with silicone in them. They clog my pores and give me horrible cystic acne, so I stay far, far away from primers with silicone (of which I have tried them all until I figured out how sensitive I am to the silicone). This is a problem though, because before I found Lorac's primer, I saw silicone as the ingredient that usually works best to give you the smooth, even "primed" canvas for foundation. Silicone-free primers always performed like the ugly stepsister of primers to me. Well, move aside ugly stepsisters, because I think that with my use of Lorac's Aquaprime Primer I have found a silicone-free product that does what I have been looking for!

It is a silicone, oil, fragrance, and paraben-free primer that has a very watery, clear consistency as compared to other foundation primers. It goes on very smooth and dries down quickly to a nice moisturized but still matte-like finish. Meaning it is a finish that isn't luminous or shiny, but still hydrated. I find it doesn't dry out the skin, and does provide the lightest hydration, light enough to tolerate for even very oily skin, but welcomed in that it doesn't cause flakey's or extra dryness. I do think it helps my foundation apply smoother with less product and last both better and longer.

I really like this foundation primer because it is one that doesn't dry me out, break me out, or make my skin an oil slick, all of which every primer I have tried before has done in one way or another. I think I have been through every primer in Sephora, and this remains one I reach for everyday. A definite must-try for those silicone-sensitive ladies that are looking for a primer. It retails for around $30 and can be found at sephora, sephora.com, beauty.com and Lorac's own website, loraccosmetics.com.

Alternative 1: I would recommend this for all but the absolute driest of skins. If you have super dry skin, and want silicone-free, I think Korres' primer is a great choice. I liked it, except it is very hydrating, and made my oily skin a regular old grease-fest. It might be great for those looking for that hydration though.

Alternative 2: If you really need an oil-control formula (I often do in the summer or on certain days my skin freaks out on me), I would suggest using the Murad Oil Control Lotion SPF 15. It does a lovely job, although is very sticky (almost like glue). I use it either under my Lorac in the summer as an alternative to moisturizer or alone as a primer on days I''m going light on the makeup.

xoxo

My View:Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion

2010-01-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

I recently heard my friend talking about Mario Badescu's Buffering Lotion as a good treatment for cystic or hard-to-treat pimples. Well, call me crazy, but I was so curious to see if it actually worked I got myself down to my local Ulta and bought it.

I was very skeptical to whether this worked or not, as I have found NOTHING that actually worked on those inground, cystic pimples that won't come to a head or ever go away, but I raced to get this anyway. I get a good few of those hard to treat pimples every once in a while, and it seems to take what feels like weeks to actually heal, and I would try anything that might speed up that process. So I tried this and a couple weeks into using it, and I actually see a difference! I seriously think it's a miracle, and I am crazy about this product because of it.

Can you see before it's shaken up, the layer at the bottom?

You shake the bottle up, as it has a clear liquid and then a powdery-white substance at the bottom. It then becomes a white liquid, to which you dot over the affected area. Now it doesn't make the sucker go away overnight or anything, but it seriously had reduced the size and severity of the pimples I have used it on noticeably after just one treatment.

Shaken (not stirred..haha)

Now it does have alcohol listed as one of the ingredients, and I know some people cannot use products with alcohol because it can be drying or irritating, but I think if you just place it on the pimple this won't be a problem. Something to think about though. I have very oily skin, so this might be a reason I didn't experience irritation from it. I need something to dry those kind of pimples up, or else they never go away!

I needed to share this because I know how annoying pimples can be, and I do find this works. It retails around $17 and most Ulta's I know carry the brand. You can also get it at select Nordstroms, Nordstrom.com and mariobedescu.com. xoxo

Cheap & Chic: Rimmel Max Volumeflash Mascara

2010-01-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

I wanted to include a section of items to review that were a deal/steal...because who doesn't love a deal?!

I usually use high-end mascara, but a while back I became determined to find a drugstore variety that preformed as well as my high-end favorites (including Diorshow and YSL Faux Cils). I started using CG Lashblash, and I liked it, but I think that under a primer (Shiseido Mascara Primer) or even alone..it became clumpy and kinda gross after one coat. I saw some recommendations for this mascara floating around youtube and makeup websites and decided to give it a try...who doesn't love a hot pink tube of mascara?!

I REALLY like this mascara. Now I am the type of girl that prefers volumizing mascaras, since I don't need a whole lot of extra length in mine. This is a lovely, non-clumpy application. It has a large-ish wand, although not as large as something like Lashblast has. It goes on very opaque (very nice if you have light eyelashes like me) and doesn't get clumpy on me no matter how many coats I put. It someone makes them full and lush, almost like false eyelashes without becoming a spidery mess. Loves it!

It comes in two colors, "black"and "extreme black" and I have the black. My own gripe is I wish they had it available in a brown or black-brown so I could use it for everyday runnings-around, like after the gym or something. I have light eyelashes that are actually more clear in color they are so blonde, and brown or brown-black looks more natural on me for everyday. But the effect is so gorgeous, I find myself wearing this everyday despite the black color. People can just think I have naturally, long, thick lashes that make my eyes border on doll-like (in a good open, wide and awake way).

You should try it out! I love trying out new mascaras and this is a really nice one that works well for me. Its around $6-7 dollars where I have found it at places like Ulta and Walgreens. xoxo

Shout-out Time:The Triple Threats!-Three Bloggers You Will Love

2010-01-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to link a few of my favorite blog from some of my favorite youtubers. No one reads this blog...yet...but these ladies produce not just great youtube video's but great, interesting blogs I read as much as possible so I wanted to put this out there in case someone stumbles upon this site and wants to find some great things to read about and see elsewhere. I love sharing the love. All these ladies are not only beautiful to look at, but have great taste and skill/smarts about sharing it with the world through their blogs and videos. All triple threats for sure!

So I thought I would share some of my favorites three at a time. I am sure you all know them, but I wanted to highlight them anyway : )

HRH Collection - This girl is celeb-worthy, jaw-droppingly gorgeous, and her blog is both pretty and interesting to read with great pictures and insights into her fabulous life, style and opinions. She also makes videos on youtube under the same name and seriously has some of the best taste and style I have seen online. She will have 200,000 subs in no time. I really think she is one of the best youtubers/bloggers out there and has style that is interesting and inspirational.

MakeupbyTiffanyD - Another beautiful girl that is SERIOUSLY talented in makeup application and all things beauty. She posts pictures and detailed reviews of the videos she does on youtube on her blog, and they are all great inspiration to everyone that likes makeup. Very sweet and sincere and all her opinions seem honest and genuine. Plus, check out her videos for her latest fab jewelry, gorgeous closet, and drool-worthy stash of makeup products.

Lollipop26- A beautiful Brit that oozes style and class in her makeup and beauty centered blog and youtube channel. Uh, maybe its the lame American in me, but I could listen to her all day. She isn't afraid to give her honest opinion about a product and has great suggestions that create lemmings both from high-end and drugstore brands. Such a beautiful girl all around who has great style and taste in products. Her blog is also equally as interesting as her videos, and is updated often with some of the most cleverly-written and interesting posts around.

And since I'm a rule breaker I am going to add another name as a bonus...

The Current Custom- Another really beautiful girl that has a fabulous youtube channel and blog to boot. She does tons of great haul videos and has fabulous taste (I know I say that for everyone, but I wouldn't include someone that didn't) If you are into hair, you need to tune into her videos to see her ever-changing hair colors, all of which somehow wind up looking gorgeous. She is basically a real-life Barbie doll, in the best sense of the word, with great clothes, makeup and hair. I also like she gives her honest opinion and doesn't care what other people think of it. She has some serious girlpower (I can't believe I said that) and is a pleasure to listen to and watch! She also has some pretty jewelry for sale on her blog, which is always fun!

There you go everyone..I love sharing the love...enjoy!

xoxo

Fashion Battle:Choo vs. Louboutain

2010-01-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

On this post I thought I would share my favorite Christmas present I got from my wonderful parents (actually with what I have to say about how painful they are my Chanel sunglasses, a close second favorite, might be winning out)

...drumroll....

My first pair of Christian Louboutain shoes!

I was SO excited to get these, and had bought them beforehand to size myself, but only got to wear them for the first time when I went to the Ritz in Arizona over New Year's (I normally find myself living in my various Tory Burch Reva Flat's..an all-time favorite of mine and to be added to "My Favorites" list soon)

First off ladies..I can't believe I am saying this...but I have to be honest here...I don't know if I will be buying another pair of these again...my heart breaks at the thought of this as I DREAM about a nude platform pair of peep toes from this man nightly...his shoes are BEAUTIFUL and I swoon over them all the time...but yikes are they uncomfortable!

...and I don't mean uncomfy like I feel all heels are...relatively speaking from the flats I normally wear..I mean REALLY uncomfortable. For the record they are the "Simple Pump" I think in the 120 (which I am pretty sure refers to the heel height)

For most Louboutains I know you have to size up, so me being normally a 6 or 6 1/2, I went up to a 7..and perhaps my mistake was not getting an even bigger size than that. These are tiny! I just couldn't imagine going beyond a size 7 as I have no shoes bigger than that. They are super narrow and equally super uncomfortable...and trust me ladies, I can walk in heels like a pro.

I was disappointed and sad about this, but I hope they will break in and soften up (the leather) as I wear them...and I WILL wear them..because painful or not...they are fabulous looking! I would probably just go back to what I see as the most comfortable high heel shoes in the world...that being the wonderful Jimmy Choo.

Jimmy Choo's to me are so comfy and easy to walk in they make my Louboutain's feel like miny torture devices. I don't have many pairs to compare, but any one I have worn in the past has been a pleasure to walk in. Kudos Tamara! (Mellon..co-founder of Jimmy Choo)

I'll leave you with a favorite pair of my Choo's...which I think resemble those dyeable bridesmaid shoes somewhat..HAHA..but they are pretty..and COMFY in person...

...while I wouldn't totally rule out trying other Louboutains in the future if I am lucky enough to get another pair someday..since different shoe styles might differ in comfort within the brand..this particular pair has definitely made me overall weary of the brand...I guess the point is girls, don't just buy those Louboutain's chasing after the red bottom..try them on and see for yourself, another high-end brands might work for you and your foot better if you are looking to splurge.

xoxo

p.s. I find Prada's shoes to be equally as comfy and worth the investment. They are a dream to walk in for me also.

What's In My Makeup Bag?

2010-01-22T10:10:00.000-08:00

I was surprised...not at much as usual...it's a minor miracle!

I guess it's not that interesting, but I thought I would do a piggyback post to my "What's in My Bag" post by showing what is in my makeup bag.

My makeup bag I use everyday is the Louis Vuitton "Toiletry Pouch 19." It is the mid-size model of three toiletry pouches, the 15, 19 and 26. The 15 is too small for me, and I thought that the 26 would be excessive, although I am sure that I would be able to fill it without much trouble. : )

I like it because it is the coated canvas material from Louis, and it basically indestructible, which I find fabulous. You can wipe it out and all around easy peasy and all that makeup that can get inside the bag, no matter how careful you are you know it happens, the bag looks brand new years later. I can't stand makeup bags with old battle scars of makeup battles past. A fresh, new makeup bag is the best, but with the lining in this one, I never need to replace. Something nice to invest in if you love your makeup as much as I do. It could probably double as a clutch too.

Back to the makeup...

I have a few important, ever-changing things with me today. They include:

*Fresh Brown Sugar Body Creme (I rotate various travel size hand creme/body creme's with me and this is the current one..found in my stocking..very nice..smells a bit lemony fresh so if you are not into those kinds of smells and think it reminds of you Pine Sol...you wouldn't like this..also its not super moisturizing for winter really..great for summer though I would think..has a lovely texture)
*MAC Blot Powder-best product for shiny faces like mine. Ah, definitely a favorite!
*Chanel Pressed Powder (hmmm..I suppose I don't need this if I have the other one do I? Lovely powder too..although as much as I need to touch up I prefer the Blot)
*Bobbi Brown Concealer Compact-It is a compact that she used to sell (I think it is still available on QVC) that has a small pot of corrector, concealer, her foundation stick and powder. While the powder is so small its useless, I use the concealer and foundation stick if I need some covering. This is also a great product for evening clutches since it is tiny and has everything you need in it!)
*Tiny stub of Dior Brow Pencil-My brows always disappear, and I have clear-blonde eyebrows to begin with...so I keep an eyebrow pencil on hand at all times. I'm on the search to find a product that stays all day, haven't found it yet)
*Rimmel Volume Max Mascara-The hot pink tube in my makeup bag is my newest find, and I love it! It is better than Covergirl Lashblast, which was initially the only mascara from a d/s I used. Its great...I'm doing a review soon..loves it!
*Chanel Mascara-a sample I use instead of the Rimmel if I don't have it around...love me some lashes!
*Stila Eye Kajal in Topaz-great inner rim liner and only pencil formula I use and like. I prefer liquid or gel but these pencils are fabulous!
*Korres Lip Butter in Guava-This over the next product is my go-to everyday casual lip. Moisturizing, not too glossy and pretty. Love it!
*Tweezerman lash comb
*Bobbi Brown Blush/Bronzer Duo-The bronzer in light and her pale pink blush are two of my favorite products. This was a limited edition, but its great to carry with two products in one.

...whew! That seemed like a lot more products now that I write those down. The last four are my favorite lip products ever...and yes they all resemble each other. I have super pigmented lips and use these to make a pretty neutral lip. They are...

*YSL Rogue Pur Lipgloss..I think it is in 1..its beautiful and gives a high gloss shine
*Bobbi Brown Shimmer Lip Gloss in Pearl Sugar...I LOVE this color and product..its sticky (which I like..its stays on and doesn't run down your lips or look like you just ate fried chicken) and the perfect not-to-glossy pearly sheer color. It has since been discontinued, and makes me tear up just thinking of it. I am hoarding it where I can find it...*sigh*
*NARS lipgloss in striptease..lovely color if you want to mute out your lips like I do mine

Oh and two more stragglers...

*The YSL Pure Shine Sheer Lipstick in Natural Beige..lovely color..a bit slippery for my liking, but its a creamy, luxurious formula with enough pigment to tone out my pigmented lips a bit. YSL lipsticks are the best!
*My Coco Mademoiselle Purse Spray...a scent I have worn since it came out in 2001. Twist up and smell yummy...fabulous!

My View: Benefit's Stay, Don't Stray

2010-01-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

This is a fairly new product that I was interested in ever since MakeupbyTiffanyD (her name on youtube..check her out..she is fantastic!) talked about the now defunct FYEye primer by the same brand. I wanted to try a Benefit eye primer and compare it to the one I love and use everyday-Urban Decay Primer Potion.

It is a product with an interesting concept, with some benefits...and a few flaws that I feel the company needs to work out if this is to be their go-to eye primer.

First, it come in a little pump bottle, which is the worst applicator bottle I have ever seen. It is really frustrating and reason enough not to buy it again. There is no way to control the pressure on the nozzle and you wind up with a HUGE blobby mess that no person can possibly use in one application. It is a total waste of the product, and the cheap plastic container with a pump you can't control really annoyed me.

Stupid Pump! It is a mess!

The product itself is meant to be a a primer used both on and under the eyes, that is you can use it to prime for eyeshadow and concealer under the eyes. I think it does a decent job on both, with the winner being under the eyes. I think it does a pretty good job at keeping your concealer under your eyes from creasing without looking cakey, which is nice if you have oily skin like me. I like that it is a creamy, silky texture for under the eyes and it glides on nicely there, however this can get a little messy, especially on the eyelid. I found the creamy, almost slippery texture a bit hard to slop around the eye (partially due to how much product was globbed out), and I like a drier texture of a MAC paint pot or UDPP, which I find is easier to control on the eyelid.

Big glob of it swatched on hand..it sheers out on the face..you shouldn't use a lot of it, even though a ton comes out of the bottle

After using it for several weeks I won't be repurchasing this product...at least right now. I think it may be worth a try for those looking for something that might help undereye concealer stay in place, or if you need a creamy, silkier texture for an eyeshadow primer because of crepey lids or just by preference. Also, if they repackage it with a better pump, I may consider.

All this aside, I will say that when the product did dry down, I did not experience any creasing from normal, everyday wear. I have super oily eyelids and eyeshadow isn't possible for me unless I have a primer, so I guess this is a good point for the product. Overall though, my next purchase would be back to UDPP..which I see as of now as a superior product for your money. Especially the new color out by Urban Decay which is called Eden...a more opaque, nude primer than the original, which looks promising for those wanting more coverage from a primer. Review of that soon to come! xoxo

What's In My Bag?

2010-01-21T17:12:00.000-08:00

...apparently enough stuff to sustain a small community of people for a good couple days!

I had to do one of these posts because they are my favorite thing to look at or watch on Youtube. I was going to ponder what the obsession some of us (read:me) have with looking at "What's in my bag/purse?" tags...well I can answer that...I am a total handbag-a-holic. And although I am in a savings phase at the moment (like a real-savings-cause-i'm-an-adult-and-need-to-be-responsible, not a saving-for-the-next-LV-bag-I'm-drooling-over- phase...like usual) I have a particular fondness, ehem, obsession with all things purse. Especially Louis Vuitton. As much as I would like to have a Chanel (maybe) and a Birkin (oh dear lord let's hope)..I have a fondness and attraction to everything LV does. You can see a bit of that in my bag and it's contents.

For the record the black bag I am carrying is the Louis Vuitton Epi Speedy 30. It is beautiful textured leather, and my newest bag in my collection. I like it because its LV, but not the mono (of which I have plenty of)...and goes so well with all the dark colors of fall and winter we are wearing now.

The contents inside my love are...

*My LV wallet (a really old one I don't think they make anymore..but the Sara style is similar)

*LV cosmetics bag (whats in this is to come in another post)

*LV Trunks and Bags pouchette (has hand creme and lippies or just randomness)

*Bloomie's cosmetic bag (includes my hairbrush, purfume, hand santizer and the like..I particuraly love it cause my mom got it for me and it reminds me of our days together at the Short Hills Bloomie's ...shopping and eating yogurt!)

*Chanel Sunglasses

*Wet Ones (I like to sanitize everything..hands, card steering wheel etc...I really am turning into my mom!)

*Sigma Travel Brush Set (Nice for the price..a review to come shortly)

*Mason Pearson Travel Hair Brush (best brushes ever...I like the combo boar and nylon bristles..all boar doesn't brush anything well imo)
*Car Keys with LV card case

My Favorite Things: Best. Margarita. Ever

2010-01-21T17:08:00.000-08:00

I had to dedicate a separate post to the particular blend of deliciousness that was the Mango Margarita at Turquesa, Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain. I don't even like tequila, and the even more pathetic attempts many resorts or places outside of the Southwest or Mexico to pass off some pathetic libation as a frozen margarita makes me often really dislike tequila. That being said, the margaritas at the Ritz will change your mind.

The original ones at this resort are good too, in fact the mango margarita is just an original frozen one swirled with mango puree, but the combo of its viscosity and thickness, not watery or melted, but thick, sweet and delicious, make it a combo that literally has me salivating like some Pavlovian dog over here. I have been classically conditioned through my love of the mango margarita.

Even if you don't like tequila, or you don't like mango, get the original, but you must try one (I like frozen, most likely due to the fact I like anything that resembles a slushie..and brings back fond memories of slushies during summer in childhood) It will change your life.

The equally yummy Grilled Mahi-Mahi Fish Tacos that went with said Margarita

I will take a break to highlight the above picture and how yummy these fish tacos were. I have never had fish tacos, as I was never a Mexican food fan in my youth. But let me tell you, these were GOOD.

There are so many places I want to see, so going back to a place multiple times isn't always in my cards, but I would go back to this place just to get another fix of these things. Seriously, the guy asked me if I liked it during lunch and I told him the only way I would be happier is if they wheeled on over an IV stand and bag and just poured that mango deliciousness straight in. Try one...and thank me later. xoxo

Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain

2010-01-21T16:55:00.000-08:00

I decided my first full review would be about a new Ritz Carlton Resort that opened up Mid-December 2009, and to which I took a trip to over New Year's with my lovely parents. It is the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain, and is located in Marana, AZ. Marana is in Southern Arizona (think an hour and a half or so south of Phoenix for those not familiar), a little north of Tuscon...and the place is beautiful. The pictures do not do it justice. The above is moi at the pool looking at the resort from the back. Now that I'm back home and freezing my behind off, these pictures are making me bitter...and pale! But nonetheless, let's continue!

Below is the firepit at the center of the back of the resort, past the lobby, and showing the beautiful mountains the entire hotel is set up against.

When I say the place is beautiful I mean both the state, city and actual resort. First let's start off with the majestic beauty that is Arizona, in particular southern Arizona. Growing up on the east coast, the place looks like another planet...in the best way possible. I find the beauty of the landscape in the area to be both beautiful, awe-inspiring and tranquil. The next picture below is of some of the grounds, which blend the desert landscape with beautiful verdent accents of lush green.

The resort itself is located tucked among and facing back towards some beautiful mountainous terrain. It is a winding drive up to the resort into a sort of oasis tucked back into huge mountains and hills behind it (lets say I grew up in a place with no mountains so my judgement on huge is relative here people) It is unlike any Ritz Carlton you have probably been before, I looked at it as a huge glamorous "luxury lodge" -type atmosphere. The lobby is open through sliding floor-to-ceiling glass panels, to the large half-moon area outside where most of the outdoor action is. There is a large fire pit and outside seating, and further beyond is an infinity pool and outdoor grill, Turquesa. Beyond this are individual guest casitas (a little guest house of sorts), and beyond that are the gorgeous mountains. You feel both tucked in and wide open to the beautiful space that the Ritz encompasses (and that is a large space...850 acres, which makes it the largest Ritz in North America by terms of acres, not actual building) To go to the Spa, Golf Course and other activities, you have to head from the front of the building out.

This is the pool area and the casitas in the background

We stayed in what the Ritz calls the "concierge level" in its resorts, and let me tell you, don't reserve a room here unless you plan on never being able to go to a resort without one of these amenities. My family made the mistake of this all the way back in childhood, taking my brother and I to Disneyworld and booking the concierge level at the Grand Floridian through the recommendation of a work friend of my dad's....and we have been hooked ever since.

The Concierge Lounge

The concierge level differs in many resorts, but generally, its a floor or two of rooms that share a common lounge, accessed only by key card. The lounge has concierge on hand at all times, and serves free food and drink throughout the day. Here at the Ritz, it was a continental breakfast (including cooked items like bacon and eggs),fresh fruit, coffee, tea, espresso, granola, cereal and anything you could want. They also had a light lunch serving, and afternoon snack, pre-dinner appetizers and drinks and desserts. They are put out for a few hours and all the food and drink (read: Alcohol) is complimentary (well you pay the premium for the room I guess...but no extra is charged after that). This is another thing you must try if you can swing it. The concierge level will change your life...and leave you spoiled for the rest of it. And I'm not saying its cheap to do this by any means, but having a free breakfast for your family and/or free champagne/wine/liquor for yourself at night really pays for the extra you put down for the room. Totally worth it...trust me!

The citrus groves in the back for the resort's restaurants to use

Back to the resort. If the pictures don't tell you how beautiful it is, let me say it one more time. This place is gorgeous. The service is kind and attentive and the rooms are fresh, modern and luxurious. The golf course is beautiful (my dad's review..not mine..he also said its HARD..but gorgeous), the spa is divine (even compared to some top spas I have been before) My only one problem with the whole resort was the pathetic excuse for toiletries they use. Seriously...I wish I took a picture. They are "ritz carlton brand" (to which I frankly miss the designer brands you get at other resorts like L'Occitane at the Four Seasons and Aqua di Parma, which you used to get at the Ritz)..and they stink! They are only large enough to use once...I mean..you have to use the whole bottle of shower gel for your body..and it won't even lather. The quality is poor and doesn't reflect to the quality all-around of the resort and its reputation.

Horrible toiletries aside (and that is a big deal to beauty-obsessed me, trust me), the place is so darn pretty and relaxing..I would return and use those awful products anyday just so I can stay there again. Bravo Ritz..even in the throws of a recession, you didn't cut corners (well except that darn shower gel) in your resort and made another fabulous, luxurious, yet unpretentious addition to your family..one that really echoed the down-to-earth beauty of the place you built it in. If you think Ritz's are snobby, intimidated by them, or one that dislikes the sleek marble up the wazoo flashiness of some resorts and places...come here...you won't be sorry. I said it before but I have to say it again, these pictures are nowhere near as beautiful as it actually is. I'll blame that on the camera and not my pathetically amateur photography skills. xoxo L

My Favorite Things:MD Skincare Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel

2010-01-18T20:40:00.000-08:00

I wanted to title this post...Dear Dr. Gross..How I love you...let me count the ways...

I am so fickle with products, and attracted to shiny, new things like a 3-year old, it takes a lot to make "my favorite things"..which are all-time favorite products or things that seriously impacted my life for the better. This thing is one that changed my skin for the better...in a way no other product has done...ever.

First off, let's talk about how annoying and not-so-great my skin is. I have oily, acne-prone skin with very enlarged, congested pores all over, especially in the nose, chin and T-zone area. A majority of products break me out or do nothing for me. My pores are so enlarged and congested, sometimes it frustrates me to no end. I have tried just about everything, including other AHA and BHA products to help me, and nothing has shown any discernible difference...until I started using these MD skincare peel pads.

I tried one pad on a whim, as it was a sample given in a Neiman's beauty order many, many months ago. I was bored and frustrated with my skin and decided to give the peel a whirl. It is a two step system in which you swipe one pad on your skin (the one with AHA and BHA for exfoliating) ...wait 2 minutes..and then wipe the other pad on your skin (the neutralizing and soothing one with retinal) My skin felt like a baby's butt after this. It was smooth and glowing. Now I can't say it helped my acne or pores after this, but it was so lovely it made me order right on the spot.

The system is expensive, I buy the 60 day supply for $128 from either mdskincare.com or skincarerx.com (both great sites with great customer service) The 30 day supply is around $78. It is worth that money and more. If you have ever had a problem with acne, scarring or pores in your life you know what I mean, and I really recommend trying this because it might really help. Try going to a place like Sephora and seeing if they can give you one of the travel packs as a sample. I think you will see how lovely it is after one try. Then if you buy, give it time and I really think you will see a difference.

Another thing to note is that although I am still in my 20s, and not overly concerned with aging, if you do have that concern the acid in the peels and the retinol are also supposed to help with fine lines and wrinkles, as well as thinking to stimulate collegen production (what keeps skin supple and firm)..so I see it as a good all-around product for all ages!

The image is from skincarerx.com..a great website. Good service, product selection and they have sales and promotions all the time. Sign up for their emails, and you get lots of promos and chances to save! Xoxo

Dear FTC...

2010-01-18T20:36:00.000-08:00

This is a post letting everyone (and the FTC) know that all the products, services or likewise featured in this blog have been bought by me with my own money. None of the items are given to me to review, or paying me in any way...and all of it is my honest opinion. This is something I am doing for me, and honest opinions are the only way I would put a product on here to review or rate..good or bad. I'm not here to appease anyone or any brand. If, in a snowball's chance in you-know-what, someone ever send's me something and it's something I didn't pay for, I will let you know. Otherwise, all bought with my own money...and always my own, honest opinion.

xoxo

Welcome To My Blog Everyone!

2010-01-18T18:39:00.000-08:00

..and by everyone, I mean me, myself, and I...and my mom (HI MOM!) My name is Logan and I am a fashion student, finishing up going to school this year with a degree in fashion and retail management.(I also went to school for a psych degree earlier but went to art school instead of med school afterwards) I love all things beauty, fashion and lifestyle related, and I wanted to create a blog highlighting some of my loves, lusts and must-haves! I did this mostly to have a record of my writing, reviewing and organizing ability to cite on a resume or for personal use in the fashion arena later down the line. I don't expect many people to find let alone follow this blog...but I welcome anyone who stumbles upon this to hopefully enjoy! Cheers everyone!