Showing posts with label Drugstore Products. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drugstore Products. Show all posts

5.14.2015



We all have beauty products that we buy over and over again. Tried, tested, and true, some things just become staples in our beauty arsenals. They just work! But sometimes, you decide to go outside the norm and see what else is out on the market.

These are mine. I'm still playing around with them so this isn't necessarily a review of each product, just a peek into what I'm using and or doing lately as part of my routine.


Quite a name isn't it? I think it's pretty cheesy, but I'm also hoping this nightly brow boost helps because my brows are too thin for my liking and I need help growing them. Listen up you 13- year olds out there...don't over-tweeze! You will regret it when you're older. That's exactly what I did, and I'm still paying the price. I just bought this last week so I'll let you know what comes of it. 





Stubby lashes have been my foe since I was a teen, and mascara is one of my most beloved products to help me look awake. It's amazing what lashes do for the face! I picked this one up on a whim, and it's well...just okay. The wand is a bit curved to reach into the lashline, but the volume and length isn't very noticeable on me. I'm using it during the week for work, but it's not one I'll repurchase. This is one area where I just need to stick with my tried and true! (Benefit and CoverGirl lashblast).




I don't typically treat myself to a fancy shower gel. I love the many options that drugstores carry, and I don't find it necessary to pay for an expensive one. So I don't exactly know what possessed me to order this, aside from the fact that I love the brand but I am so happy I did. The fragrance is soft and very clean. Even Nate likes it, and he's very picky about scents. 





I have some bronzers (such as the one pictured above) that have a sheen or subtle sparkle so instead of using them all over my face, I have been using them as blush. I find that they are too unnatural as all-over face powder, but swept lightly on the cheeks, they provide a gorgeous golden glow. 





Speaking of a glow, I got a facial last week that I absolutely loved. I've only experienced a facial a handful of times in my life, but this one was particularly needed as my skin has been so dry. I had rough patches near my nose and eyes, probably from allergies and constant sweeping away of tears. Have your allergies been bad this season? I was contemplating getting eyelash extensions, but I don't think I can with watery, itchy eyes! Anyway, the facial was the perfect pick-me-up and my skin today is soft, moisturized, and more even. 

This picture from my best friend's birthday was filtered using color, but my skin definitely looks much better than it did a few weeks ago. I think a facial every three months is my new remedy to combat dryness. 



Thank you for reading!

2.13.2015

In honor of national love day tomorrow, I thought I'd do a beauty post about what I like to do to get ready for a night out with the hubby. This definitely isn't particular to Valentine's day though. I like to treat myself before any of our dates, whether it be grabbing drinks at a bar or just dinner at one of our favorite little spots. Half the fun is getting primped, right? The whole process puts me in a girly mood, especially while listening to music, watching makeup tutorials on YouTube, and drinking a glass of wine. It's the little things guys, the details.

If you're single? Even better! I loved getting ready with my girlfriends before hitting the town. The good ol' days...I miss those. I have two bachelorette parties coming up within the next few months so I can't wait to carry this routine over with the girls.



1) Ro's Argan Body Conditioner - For extra soft, rose scented skin that lingers long after a bath or shower. I'm telling you, if you haven't indulged in Lush products yet, this is the product to try. I can't imagine any woman not loving it (unless you dislike roses).

2) GlamGlow or Freeman's Avocado & Oatmeal Clay Mask - The first is pricey, but it really deep cleans your pores and reveals glowing skin. The second however is a wonderfully inexpensive alternative that I remember using as a teen. I like treating myself to an at-home facial before a special event because not only does it produce great results on the skin, but it also feels nice to go the extra mile and pamper yourself. Put on some relaxing music (for me that means Jack Johnson) and let the world melt away.

3) Light a candle while you're getting ready! We love them around here, even more now with a stinky puppy running around. I gravitate towards so many different brands. I love Voluspa, Bath & Body, or in this case, my new pink peony scent from Target. I've burned it once and it smells like Spring.

4) I love to first apply a moisturizing lip treatment or balm right after I get out of the shower so it can work its magic while I'm doing my hair and makeup. This one by Fresh once again smells like rose. Notice a theme here?

5) I always make sure my nails look freshly polished. I put an extra coat of Seche Vite to ensure they look shiny and don't chip during the night. It's a pet peeve of mine!


The very last thing I do before leaving the house is spraying my favorite fragrance. 
I know, how many times can I stress that I am all about roses?
Chloe's Roses de Chloe perfume




Do you do anything special to prepare for a night out?
Happy Valentine's Day loves! 


12.12.2014


I've recently received a couple reader emails about my current hair routine. To say these types of emails are incredibly sweet and flattering are an understatement, because I really don't do much and I HATE doing my own hair! I really think a lot of it has to do with genes. Mine is as frizzy and unruly as my dad's (thank you for that Mr. man)

I haven't changed things up too much, but I do want to let you know the products I swear by. First, let me say that my hair is naturally wavy, but not the "pretty mermaid" kind. I have a ton of it, but the actual texture is very soft and fine. I wash it every two days, and can't go any longer because that's just a personal preference. I have friends who wash theirs every day, and I have some that can go up to four. I think it depends on your hair's texture. It also depends on your lifestyle. Every two days is perfect for me. So that's the back story. You ladies know I chopped it early this year after frying it during and after my wedding and honeymoon. I felt a new sense of self after getting married, and I wanted my outer appearance to reflect that, however slight the change might have seemed.

                                                                                 Before:





After:




So as you can see, the color is still the same. My hair is naturally pretty dark, but I do darken it up with all-over color about two or three times per year to keep it rich. If it ever looks lighter, it's either the sunlight or it's faded a bit. My color holds a lot of red.




Products I use:

 Clear Total Care shampoo/conditioner. 
You can buy it at any drugstore, it smells amazing, and it's really whipped my dry scalp into shape. It does contain sulfates, which was something I was against for a long time, but now that I don't color my hair very often, I really don't mind. It's also super affordable. 



Macadamia Deep Repair Masque 
I use this about once per week for extra moisture. It really helps to soften my ends and eliminate extra frizz. Don't get me wrong, my hair is still frizzy as Hell even after using this, but it's less so.

I mentioned the Aveda Volumizing Tonic a few weeks back, and it really is the lightest but most effective volumizer I've ever tried. 
It really adds some natural body to my fine hair without weighing it down too much. 


TRESemme Keratin Smooth Treatment
I only use this when I want super straight locks. It really works, to my own surprise! It sounded like a gimmick to me, but I tried it using a coupon and I really enjoy it. It works with the heat of your straightener. I use a GHD by the way, and have for years now. Before that, I loved my Chi. Both are great if you're in the market for one. I don't curl my hair very often, maybe just a couple times per month. I have a Hot Tools for that. And I'm laughing because I just realized that my hair is all curls in the pictures above!


Fekkai Glossing Cream
My all-time favorite for shine and smoothing after I finish styling my hair. If you haven't tried it, you need to.





Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
My friend introduced me to this, as well as many of you beauty bloggers who convinced me I needed it. There's a wonderful salon in my area that sells it exclusively, so it's quite convenient (albeit expensive). It's really pricey, but worth the volume it provides. Nothing makes my hair bigger than this. Not that I have big hair at all, but it does reach the ceiling until I smooth it down with a brush!





So this seems like a lot, doesn't it? I don't feel it in my routine though, probably because I don't use these on a daily basis. I hope this helps any of you who are interested in new products. I can attest to the quality of them all. 
As you read this, I'm looking like a boho queen in Hawaii. Or at least I hope I am! I didn't pack really any of these products. Nope, just random minis I found at CVS. I like to go au natural when I'm by the beach :)

9.04.2014


My beauty routine changes ever so slightly on the weekends, but regardless of what I'm wearing on my lips, cheeks, and eyes, I always gravitate to these key basics seven days a week. These "current" favorites have been my staples for the entirety of Summer, and I don't see them changing anytime soon regardless of Fall being around the corner. These are all tried and true, and I recommend each and every one.

I linked to the products I could find online


    1) M.A.C. Fix + : I dampen my beauty blender sponge with this spray and then use it to blend my foundation into my skin. I find that it creates a seamless, perfectly blended canvas. The fact that it smells divine is an added bonus. I don't set my foundation with it, as I still swear by the Urban Decay All Nighter Spray, but I love Fix + as an all around refresher.

   2) NYX eyeshadow in Champagne (you can find this at Ulta): This beautiful golden brown is what I wear on my lids Monday through Thursday as an all-over color. On the weekends when I have more time to play with other shadows, I still like to layer it on the center of the lids for a pretty yet subtle pop of shine. I just find that it really brings out the golden flecks in my eyes, and the consistency is very creamy. 

  3) M.A.C. Extra Dimension eyeshadow in Sweet Heat: I feel guilty for mentioning this product because it was limited edition but I know they come out with these every few months now in new collections. I actually don't use this on my eyes - I use it as a cheekbone highlight! It's the perfect amount of sheen that makes my skin glow and it helps my face look more tan. It's just a gorgeous highlight and if you ever spot it in a CCO, grab it. 

  4) Urban Decay Brow Box in Brown Sugar: I often used pencils to lightly fill in sparse areas but then my friend told me that powders tend to look a bit more natural. I'm all about natural, so I picked this one up and it's been my go-to ever since. My brows look much more even and fuller than they used to, and while I would love to grow out even more, this powder conceals any bald spots. 

  5) Benefit Eye Bright: I love putting this on my brow bones as a natural highlight, but I also dot some in the inner corners of my eyes to brighten them up and make me look more awake! I have Veronika to thank for her recommendation. It's a great product. 

  6) Origins GinZing: This brightening eye cream (notice a trend) helps to depuff my under eyes and although I still miss my Khiels avocado eye cream, I have really grown to love this. I wear it underneath my concealer and I've noticed a difference in how the concealer applies and the overall look and finish. 






Now here are some recent buys that I have yet to try (I literally just received my NARS order last night). I'll keep you posted on my thoughts, but I can already say that I'm dying to dig in to these gorgeous shadows and liquid illuminator. I hope to wear them for my 30th birthday party and definitely had that event in mind when I bought them. 



If you have any questions, let me know! 

4.03.2014


Two beauty posts in one week? Pretty good! I'm on a roll it seems, and my favorite product to blog about is definitely pictured below. When it comes to excess, my handbags, nightstand, and vanity are filled to the brim with lipsticks, stains, balms, and glosses. Once only interested in nudes and baby pinks, these days I'm all about a bright bold lip.


Quick note: The tray is from Target. I actually keep it on a ledge between our kitchen and living room, and I change the decor out depending on my mood or the season. I love trays for displaying my lip treats though, and am thinking of getting another for my vanity. The random crystal button at the bottom? It went in the center of our wedding cake's bow :)


I grouped my new Spring lip colors according to color, and the bottom two are glosses. 

Right now, orange is my shade du jour. Yes it's trendy, all over the runways and magazines. But it's also surprisingly flattering! I never thought I'd be brave enough to pull off such a vibrant color, but I'm telling you that it works! I find that it lifts the complexion and brighten up the entire face. I like to go for more of a true mandarin shade, and avoid anything that's too peach or watered down. The M.A.C. lipstick shown was limited edition, but it's called Fashion Force if you're interested in locating it. However, the orange I highly recommend was actually one I saw on Ella and Carylee. It's the Revlon Lacquer Balm in Tease. Glossy and the perfect shade of orange, it's got just enough red in it to keep it classic, and it's what I've been wearing a lot lately. The Maybelline elixir gloss is in "Mandarin Rapture", and I like to dot just a bit on top of Tease for added shine. 

Of course, you can't think Spring without a bright pop of pink on the lips. My favorites are also by Revlon. The original Balm Stain in "Lovesick" is the best fuchsia ever (last worn here), and "Flirtatious" is equally gorgeous. I like the formula of the lacquer balms better because they offer some shine and they are much more moisturizing. My Chanel glossimer in "Glaze" is the perfect topping to any pink lip. 

I think I've covered all six, but if you have any questions feel free to ask!

What is your favorite lip shade?

8.28.2013


After months of going back and forth on what type of wallet to get, I decided on this little treat in florescent pink. 

I love how small and compact it is. I really don't carry much in my wallet these days, so just a few card slots and a compartment for bills is all I need to stay organized. When I switch in and out of my handbags, I won't have to worry about this taking up too much space or weighing me down. I can now retire my old, ratty wallet that is literally falling apart at the seams!




After shopping on Saturday, I came home and cleaned out my vanity area and bathroom. It got me thinking about products that are crucial for me in regards to blogging. Before using my camera to snap outfit photos, I always make sure to finish my look with these items. They ensure that I at least appear fresh and glowy, even if the rest of me doesn't look so great! I often wonder what other bloggers use before becoming camera - ready. Do they really look like that all the time? Or do they have any special beauty tricks? For me, as long as my skin looks moisturized and my face doesn't resemble an oil slick, I can brave the camera without too much fuss.

While in the shower - Ro's Argan Body Conditioner is what I use to shave my legs, keeping them ultra soft. The rose scent is gorgeous! I could slather myself in this from head to toe. After the body conditioner, I use Ocean Salt to exfoliate my arms, legs, and upper chest area. I swear this makes a difference in photos!

After the shower - Time to apply a second layer of moisture and seal in the Lush products I used while in the shower. Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturizer is great because it's so fast and easy, with no mess or oily residue that could stain your clothes. This is my second bottle, and I plan on buying more once it runs out! Even with dry legs, this spray-on lotion is the key to soft, pretty looking legs. For an extra bit of sheen that photographs like candlelight in pictures, I use Pacifica Coconut Crushed Pearl Body Butter. This has the same effect as a liquid highlighter, so a quick swipe down the center of legs and arms creates a really pretty effect on camera. Plus, it smells like a tropical vacation!

Once I'm all dressed and just about ready to go, I apply my Make Up For Ever HD Powder, followed by a few short bursts of Urban Decay's All Nighter Finishing Spray to ensure I don't look like an oily mess in this hot Summer heat! I think a colorful lipstick brightens up my face, especially in pictures so I usually opt out of anything nude and go for a punchy pink, raspberry, coral, or red.


What do you girls do to prep for an outfit post? Anything special? I usually take pictures on the weekends when I have more time, and when I have a little more freedom with my wardrobe. I find it much easier than rushing home from work during the week, but kudos to those of you fabulous ladies who can do it all!

♥ Noelle


8.03.2013

Happy August! I can't believe how fast time flies, my best friend's wedding is in two weeks! I'm really excited about all of the fun events coming up this month, and I hope you all have something special planned too.

I am happy to be back for this month's question (I wasn't able to participate last month). The question comes from Mehreen, and it's one of my favorite topics: What are your top ten favorite lip products?

It's so difficult for a lip product junkie like myself to narrow it down to ten favorites, but this actually forced me to clean out my vanity and it feels great to have more organization. I grouped things by category for you. If you have any questions on specific products, feel free to ask.

Lipsticks
{from left to right}
1. M.A.C. lustre in See Sheer
2. M.A.C. creamsheen in Peach Blossom
3. M.A.C. Lustre in Viva Glam V
4. M.A.C. creamsheen in Shy Girl
5. Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya
6. YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in #6 


Lipgloss
7. Buxom lip cream in White Russian
8. NYX butter gloss (this shade is in Apple Strudel, but the formula is what tops my list)
9. Revlon colorburst gloss in Pink Ice


 Balms/Conditioners
10. Nivea A Kiss of Milk & Honey. If I could only own one lip balm, this would be it. It really helps dryness.


So tell me, what are your favorite lip products? Do we share a favorite, is there one I have to try?

Have a great weekend!
♥ Noelle

6.20.2013

Recently, there has been a drastic change between my daily makeup and the products I wear on the weekend. As many of you know, I work with kids that are involved in CPS. I travel to their placements and work with them directly on improving poor behaviors, teaching them coping skills, and helping them cultivate a talent, skill, or hobby in hopes that they may return to some semblance of normalcy. I spend most of the week driving. Dressed up clothes take a backseat, and my makeup is super simple Monday through Friday (unless I go out). I used to try and keep up with the makeup routine I was always comfortable with, but over the past few months, I've realized that less is more for work.

I use the Make Up For Ever HD because I find the formula very thin, almost like a tinted moisturizer. It covers some blotchy spots on my face, but it's very natural. I use MAC prep and prime highlighter under my eyes to brighten them up, some UD liner in Stash (which is an olive) on the lash line, and CG LashBlast mascara. I sweep a nude/peach matte shadow all over the lids and that's all the eye makeup I've been wearing. Some light pink cheeks, Revlon brow fantasy to cover some bare spots throughout my brows, and a dusting of powder and I'm out the door. Throughout the day, I apply a Revlon lip butter in Juicy Papaya or some old fashioned chapstick when my lips need the moisture.



My weekend makeup is definitely more fun! This is when I can play around and let my hair down so to speak. We usually have plans with friends, date nights, or we try to get out of town. We love our weekends!
I like to use my favorite foundation, Mat Velvet +, because it has amazing coverage and staying power. Once I apply it, I know it's there for the long haul. Hourglass primer also ensures a smooth, even coverage. I go to town with shadows (loving my MAC palette), although I keep them neutral because I enjoy playing up my lips with a bright color. I also find that I only reach for my bronzer and cheek highlighter during the weekend, but I'm not sure why. If you have any questions about specific products, please ask :)


Now on to my new "discoveries".

By far the best makeup remover wipes I've ever tried! That's a big statement right? How many times have I raved about Neutrogena, Ponds, etc.? Well I adored those, until I discovered these. Please try them! They are amazing. I love how saturated they are, even the very last sheet. They remove every last stitch of makeup.

I've wanted to try this body conditioner from Lush for quite some time now, but I finally went to the only Lush remotely close to me while I was on vacation last week. Now I've only used this twice, but it's SO GOOD! I used it to shave my legs and they have never felt so soft. I don't think I'll be using this in the shower daily, but definitely on the weekends when I want to feel extra special :) Did I mention it smells of roses? Gorgeous! 

Do you switch up your weekday Vs. weekend routine?
♥ Noelle

4.11.2013

Although Revlon's Lip Butters have been around for quite some time, they have come out with a new shade that I am absolutely wild about. Juicy Papaya is a must-have my friends. A must-have!

I'm not sure why it caught my eye because I haven't purchased a lip butter by Revlon in months. That's what happens when you have too much time to kill on a lunch break. Meandering around Target always ends up in a frivilous purchase of some kind, and for me, that usually means makeup. Juicy Papaya is exactly that on my lips - juicy. The prettiest wash of orange-coral that makes me long for Summer breezes on the beach. Love.

My nudes never get any attention anymore. I simply can't bear to go bare when I have so many colorful choices. I think lipstick can also be used as an accessory to complete your overall look.





Just some examples, but I've noticed that in most of my pictures I have on a bright lip :)




What's your favorite lip color?
♥ Noelle

3.28.2013

A little retail therapy never hurt anyone, right? As long as you don't go overboard, little pick-me-ups can be a perfect solution to the doldrums. I think treating yourself to a bottle of nail polish or a new lipstick can be just as satisfying (if not more) than saving money for a big item.

Pretty Spring polishes
L'oreal has a new limited edition collection, and I had to have some! I got Creme Puffs and Lacey Lilac.
I also picked up Tart Deco and Maximillion Strasse Her by Essie.
Any of these colors would be great for Easter. I have yet to actually paint my nails with them, but I plan on wearing Creme Puffs this weekend. I'll report back on the opacity, and I have high hopes for all four.


Nivea Lip Butter in Raspberry Rose Kiss. I've heard great reviews about these new lip butters, and seeing as I'm a sucker for both raspberries and anything rose, I decided to try it. It has a soft, fruity scent and is really moisturizing.
NYX Butter Gloss in Vanilla Cream Pie is great! Non-sticky, very lightly scented (unlike most other NYX lip products) and smooth coverage. This shade is really natural so if you want more color, I'd go for a darker or brighter shade.
 
 
I finally plopped down for the Sephora 55 airbrush. I've been wanting this for what seems like ages, but I've never spent a lot of money on makeup brushes. I love my Sigma, Kirkland, and Eco Tools. However, I am so happy with this brush. I use it for blush, bronzer, and powder. Ultra soft and applies everything like a dream. I haven't washed it just yet, so I'm hoping the bristles flare out.  Right now they are quite tapered and I'd actually prefer a little fullness.
 
 
 
These delicate stone necklaces are so beautiful! I picked them up at a tiny boutique while in San Diego this past weekend and I'm just in love. Pretty layered or on their own, expect to see them appear in outfit posts very soon. I love my statement jewelry, but nothing is as sweet or as feminine as a dainty necklace around your neck.



What little pick-me-ups have you treated yourself to lately?
♥ Noelle


1.18.2013

Out with the old? Well, not exactly. But I have acquired a few new things recently that are making me very, very happy.

On the quest for a bronzer that didn't make me look orange, muddy, or shiny, I decided to give this one by Too Faced a try. Its more famous cousin is darker then I need this time of year, but the milk chocolate version is perfect for my pale skin. No sheen, purely matte. It's extremely natural, so those seeking a bronzed goddess look might want to go elsewhere. The great thing is I can swirl a giant brush into this and slap it everywhere on my face. I can almost use it like a regular powder. I personally love that in the Wintertime. If you are ghostly this time of year like I am, you will definitely appreciate it. And yes, it absolutely does smell like chocolate :)
 
 

Maybelline Color Whisper Lipstick (here in Lust for Blush and Pin up Peach) MAC creamsheen in Peach Blossom
I compare the Maybelline to the Revlon Lip Butters, except I actually prefer the feel of these on my lips a lot more. They perform like a balm, but they have a hint of color that makes them perfect for daily use. I'd give them a try, especially when they're on sale at CVS or Rite-Aid.
Peach Blossom by MAC is my new favorite. Similar to my beloved Shy Girl, but more pink then peach. How did I not know about this color before?! It's a must-have now.  

 
 
After Christmas, my fiance and I practically ran to the store and picked up iphones (our contracts were up). I always loved my android, and really had no issues with it. But all of our friends kept pushing us towards getting iphones. I'll admit they were a snobby bunch about it. I think that's why I resisted for as long as I did. But they were all right. I LOVE my new toy :)


What new item are you loving lately?
♥ Noelle

12.13.2012



1) Elf Kabuki Brush - For three dollars at Target, I walked away with the softest (I mean bunny soft) kabuki brush that fits perfectly into my J. Crew makeup bag. I use it to apply my face powder during touch-ups. I thought about buying one from a high-end brand, but I'm so happy that I saved my money and bought this little guy instead.

2) California Mango Mend - This multi-purpose balm smells amazing! Like a trip to Bora Bora amazing. Or so I imagine :) Anyway, this can be purchased at Sally Beauty Supply for around nine dollars. I bought it specifically for my dry hands. I'm constantly washing them because I work with kids who love to put their germy little fingers all over me! I wash my hands so much that they get cracked. This mango balm is the perfect size to keep in your bag, your car, or next to the bathroom sink. I won't be without it this Winter.

3) ROC Daily Resurfacing Disks - If you try just one thing from this list, please try this! These disks are great for firming and exfoliating skin. I don't have deep wrinkles (yet) so I can't attest to their ability to help fight them, but I've noticed a real difference in the overall appearance of my skin. It's been much more radiant lately. Safe enough for daily use.

4) Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer - I'm not a fan of face primer, mainly because I think regular moisturizer works just as well. However, after months of reading rave reviews from many of you, I was happy to try this sample size in the Sephora All Stars set. Love it! This primer is the perfect texture and consistency - not too slick, not too heavy, and only a slight silicone feel. It helps my foundation go on more smoothly, diminishes the look of pores, and helps my makeup last longer.

5) Goldeneye nail polish from the O.P.I. Skyfall collection - The most gorgeous gold! I have worn it for almost an entire week and it's just now starting to chip. It's such a stark gold, it almost looks like real gold leaf.  I don't think I've ever seen anything like it. This will be my nail color of choice for New Years.

6) Josie Maran Argan Oil - Another product that I can't recommend enough to everyone. Great for hair, cuticles, face, arms, legs...put some in your bath for softer skin. You can honestly use this product for practically any beauty need. The great thing about her argan oil is that it's very light. It soaks right into your skin while still providing so much moisture. The same goes for your hair. I used  Moroccan Oil for a long time, but stopped because it just felt so greasy and heavy. This is weightless.

♥ Noelle


11.15.2012

 I feel like it's been such a long time since I last featured a few products that I can't put down. It's one thing to show you what I've been buying lately. The true test comes from what I'm using on a daily basis.

This Fall, I've been all about berry toned blush with a satin finish. I love coral when I'm tanned, but once my color fades, I like a beautiful berry pop right onto the apples of my cheeks. Nothing perks up my complexion more. These are surprisingly easy to wear. They can go on sheer, or packed on! I like somewhere in between. The MAC shades are no longer available, but the LORAC blush is beautiful. There are so many pretty berries out on the market, I'm sure you can find the perfect one for you.



This Chanel quad in Prelude is a gift from my best girl. I'm loving a plum smokey eye, and this lets you go light and natural, or dark and sultry. All four shades are incredibly flattering. I like to use my Sephora smudge brush in number 29 to line my eyes in the darkest shade. It lasts all day.




What is this flourescent pink blob you may ask? It's called a tangle teezer! Apparently it's very popular in the U.K. I got mine at Sally's Beauty and I've been using it every single day since. It's the perfect shape for the palm of your hand, and it glides along the hair easily to comb out tangles - minus the pain.




These three scented candles from Bath & Body Works make me so happy. I light them primarily at night after a long day. The Vanilla Bean Noel has been my favorite for years now.

What products are you loving this Fall?
♥ Noelle

8.22.2012

Although I continue to use most of the same tried and true products, I do like to experiment at the drugstore. Many offer wonderful return policies, so you don't feel locked into something if you don't like a particular shade or formula. Also, because drugstore products are often relatively inexpensive, you don't have to feel guilty for buying something new.

Over the past month, I've discovered some gems that I had never tried before.


Julie G. is a YouTube guru that has turned her makeup tips and tricks into a full blown line of nail polishes at Rite Aid. I don't know too much about her, as I've only seen a few of her videos. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical, but the candy colored shades looked beautiful and I was definitely curious. The shades I have are Gelatos in Venice (the light mint) and Cupcakes and Castles (baby pink with shimmer). These are amazing! The formula goes opaque instantly, and only two coats are needed to achieve the color pictured in the bottle. They aren't thin or streaky. I highly recommend giving them a try the next time you are in Rite Aid.

Gelatos in Venice, after four days of wear.





Another product I'm happy I've discovered is Revlon's Brow Fantasy. After going through my Maybelline Define-A-Brow pencil, I was looking for something a little bit more versatile, and in a shade lighter. This pencil is in brunette, and I believe it is the second from the darkest shade. I love that it not only comes with the waxy pencil, but also a matching gel to tame my brows and keep them in place all day. You get a little more for your money with the two corresponding products, although I don't wear them together. I do one or the other.





After finishing my Pureology conditioner, I decided it was time to find something a little less expensive. I chose this one because I don't like to wash or condition my hair with products that contain sulfates. I didn't think I'd really see a difference in my hair, but I have! This claims to leave you frizz-free for 48 hours (or until the next wash) and I've really noticed my hair looking and staying less fuzzy. Now that's an accomplishment!


♥ Noelle