Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Ipsy | Sensationally Sunkissed - July Glam Bag


It's Ipsy glam bag time! Now, I always like to search other blogger's Ipsy posts and see what they received because there's a variation on what's in the bag depending on a person's hair color, eye color, skintone, etc. but I noticed there were barely any July Ipsy bag review posts. 
This month's theme is: Sensationally SunkissedHere comes the sun and a Glam Bag full of beauty products so good that even the sun would worship it. There isn't a gray cloud in sight this summer as we give you an amazing selection of brands and products fit to help keep you looking your best during summer's brightest days and warm long nights.
 
The Bag: It's cute. I mean, it's neon pink and I love hot pink anything. It's a bit smaller in size than the other Ipsy bags and is made out of a stretchy pleather material. Cute, but nothing to write home about.

Be fine Daily Moisturizer with SPF15
YES! Starting off the bag right with a fab moisturizer. It's lightweight and packed with antioxidants and proteins to balance your skin's moisture levels. It has Rosemary Leaf Oil in it to increase circulation, Pomegranate Extract to increase the effectiveness of the SPF (whatttt?), Safflower Seed Oil for hydration and Rice Protein to heal your skin and boost collagen growth. I'm not so sure about that Pomegranate Extract oil increasing the effectiveness of SPF. I've never heard of that one. But overall this is a nice, lightweight moisturizer; perfect for summertime.

Elizabeth Mott Tints & Sass
Thank goodness this is awesome because I'd hate to like it for the name alone. Right off the bat, when you open this baby up, you're welcomed by a cherry scent (think cherry jello!). You can wear this on your lips and on your cheeks. The lasting power is insane but make sure to apply this with a lip brush or a brush you don't care about because it will stain whatever you use with it (fingers, bristles, etc.). This is semi-reminiscent of Benefit's Benetint but I think this stain is WAY better. It's not as bright red on the skin as you'd think it'd be. Definitely more pink-toned (see swatch below).

Hang Ten Dark Tanning Oil
Meh. This was a miss for me but is perfect for readers that like to lay out and get their tan on. I like to lay out but slather on the SPF instead of the oil. I've heard some have used this as a moisturizer but I haven't tried that yet.

Pur Minerals Big Look Mascara
GUYS. Look at the cap! How freakin' cute is that? Okay. Now that I'm done geekin' out over the packaging. The mascara itself? I haven't decided if I like it or not. The formula is a little on the wet side but the brush is nice with short little bristles all over it to help volumize and lengthen your lashes. This mascara contains Argan Oil which has antioxidants, omega fatty acids and vitamin E but I have no clue why they're in a mascara. One to two applications? You're golden. Anything over that and it's clump city. I don't really like that there's such a fine line between wispy and clumpy with this mascara but I do like the results before you get to that line.

bareMinerals 5 in 1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow in Divine Wine
Now that I'm done sulking that I didn't get a bareMinerals Moxie Lipstick, I can now review this. This five-in-one eyeshadow does it all: long-wear color, primer, brightening benefits, smoothes fine lines and has some SPF in it. The formula is really nice and silky smooth. No creases to be found with about five hours of wear even with my oily eyelids. The color is a little too dark for me to wear every day but I'll save this for when I want to do a smokey eye look.

Swatches of: bareMinerals Divine Wine | Elizabeth Mott Sass & Tints


Overall: I can't tell if I liked this bag or not. The bag itself was meh (cute but meh). The products were alright but didn't leave me going "OMG LOVE IT!" My faves from this bag would have to be the Befine Moisturizer and the Elizabeth Motts Tints & Sass. I liked the mascara but I can't tell how I feel 100% about it and the eyeshadow was nice but a little too dark. The oil was a miss for me.

What did you get in your Ipsy bag? If you're not subscribed to Ipsy, does this bag change your mind?

Not subscribed to Ipsy yet? What are you waiting for? For $10 a month, you'll get a bag filled with 4-5 deluxe-full sized beauty products at your door. Sign up here (referral link)!

Monday, July 28, 2014

Sponsored | Movie Characters & Sunglasses


In the summer, there is a specific accessory that everyone needs. Every Nashville photographer, Las Vegas dancer or New York waitress needs sunglasses. And one pair of sunglasses is never enough. We need a classic one, a black one, a sporty one and a more glamorous one. After all, having a mini-collection is, actually, a very nice idea.
    The sunglasses are those accessories that can change the air of the whole outfit. They’re a little secret, often used by the movie costume designers. A pair of over-sized and rounded, similar to those popularized by Jackie Onassis and Audrey Hepburn, can turn an outfit into one with a special allure detached from the '60s. The aviator lenses worn by Angelina Jolie and Jelly McGillis in Top Gun, can easily turn you into ‘one of the boys’, especially if you’re wearing jeans and Oxford shoes.
And because we’re talking about sunglasses and movie stars, let’s remember a few characters that are basically synonyms to their sunglasses.
  • Carrie-Ann Moss in Matrix. In the dystopian world, everyone wore dark glasses and Trinity, Keanu Reeves's partner was hiding behind a black leather jumpsuit and a pair of dark lenses. In case you’re wondering what brand of glasses is used in the Matrix: Blinde Design created them just for the film, and later Ray Ban launched the 3194, a similar version which is more robust.
  • Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. A Givenchy black dress and a long, heavy cigarette are the right tools to use if you want to invent your own character from New York. For maximum style, add some oversized glasses (Manhattan model), signed by Oliver Goldsmith.
  • Susan Sarandon and Geena Davies in Thelma and Louise. As iconic as the film are the two pairs of sunglasses: Dekko Ray-Ban for Geena Davies at the end of the film and Cornu by LA Eyewear for Susan Sarandon.
  • Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City. When Carrie gout out of the "Mexi-coma" after the missed wedding, she was hidden behind some spectacular lenses and frames, signed by Oliver People. Also, there is another scene in the opening sequence of SATC2, with Carrie wearing a limited edition of gold aviator lens, signed by Bernhard Willhelm & Mykita's .

#sponsored
Monday, July 28, 2014

Baby Update | 33 Weeks!


At this point, I feel like a broken record but the third trimester is seriously flying by.


How far along? 33 weeks, 3 days.
Total weight gain: Good question! I have no clue right now.
Maternity clothes? Definitely. I'm also lovin' my Old Navy tanks.
Stretch marks? Yup. Quite a few around the belly button area and now I've found some on my hips. 
Sleep: Pretty well minus my dogs keep waking me up. They've been on this kick where they like to go in and out of the blankets and piss me off.
Miss Anything? Not getting a back ache or rib ache if I sit too long.
Movement: SO much! I absolutely love it.
Food cravings: I could go for fries and a frapp right now. I swear, that's been my thing this whole pregnancy and I rarely give in.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Thankfully, nothing.
Gender: It's a boy! 
Labor Signs: Just pressure really low sometimes. Obviously not a labor sign but a sign that he's getting ready!
Symptoms: Pain under my ribs or in my back if I sit too long and some low pressure sometimes. I'm so thankful that that's basically been it. 
Belly Button in or out? In.
Wedding rings on or off? On.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy but super tired lately.
Looking Forward To: Washing all his little clothes and meeting him!
Friday, July 25, 2014

Giveaway | All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com Box


Hey babes! TotalBeauty and I have joined together to give one of my readers their own All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com! YAY! Check out my review if you want a sneak peek and more info on what's inside!

US only | 18+ | Good luck!

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Haul | Francesca's Collections


One of my absolute favorite stores in the mall is Francesca's Collections. It has such a girly boutique feel with unique pieces of jewelry, gorgeous clothes, fun handbags, cute accessories and gift ideas. The only thing that sucks about that boutique feel is that boutique price so when they have crazy deals (like all handbags 40% off and jewelry is buy one, get one), you better believe this chick is going all in.

(Nails: Bonita Spring Violet)
I ended up snagging the infamous Harper Tassel Tote. I've wanted this baby for SO long ever since I saw Morgan Allen's (Allen & Co) Instagram pic of it but with a baby on the way, it was a little of a splurge for myself (and to be honest, I'd rather just buy the baby stuff instead of me lately). Then the salesgirl comes over, "Oh hey. Just letting you guys know that ALL HANDBAGS are 40% today." Oh hey, you're an angel - and that Harper bag is coming home with mama now. The tote is huge and fits so much stuff. Right now, it's filled with Babies R Us and Buy Buy Baby coupons, my humungo Coach wallet, aviators, pens, random bills, etc. 

Next place to browse was the jewelry which is also normally out of my price range (think $30+ for a gorgeous statement necklace) but a sweet little sign that read "Buy one, get one half off" sat next next to them so I couldn't help myself. I ended up getting this gorgeous white rope statement necklace with crystal rings around it first. I legit walked around the necklaces about ten times before picking this one out. Then I spied the midi rings. I have a few cheapy ones from Forever 21 but the crystal "X" midi ring caught my eye and came home with me. The last two things I bought were the little stud earrings - one pair are crystal balls and the others are gold arrows. Too cute! Unfortunately, none of these besides the tote are up on the site so you'll have to go in to oogle over these beauties!

What have you bought lately?
Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Giveaway | 30-Pan MAC Eye Shadow Palette!


Remember when myself and 29 other bloggers did a blogger-curated MAC palette? Well, it's back! With a twist :)
Row 1 (L-R): Angie (Vanity Rouge), Noelle (XO Noelle), Dee (Liner Glitter Gloss), Sandra (Moms Makeup Stash), Jenelle (Nelle Creations) & Deanne (My Fash Avenue)
Row 2 (L-R): Michelle (A Lovely Allure), Marcia (Beauty Info Zone), Iva (Falling in Style), Niki (Hello Miss Niki), Rica (The Office Chic) & Bree (Urban Umbrella)
Row 3 (L-R): Amber (Canadian Fashionista), Krystal (Beauty by Krystal), Lauren (The Fashionista's Diary), Justina (Justina's Gems), Stacey (Stacey Brennan YT), Elaine (Toronto Beauty Reviews)
Row 4 (L-R): Maria (A Mother's World), Marissa (Chic Darling), Kelly (Glitter Diaries), Cheryl (Beauty by Cheryl H), Chelsea (Olive & Ivy) & Chrissy (Some Velvet Morning)
Row 5 (L-R): Shayna (A Pop of Colour), Cecilia (Dearest Lou), Janna (Gloss & Glitz), Mina (Mina Slater), Cindy (Prime Beauty) & Katelyn (The Skinny Blonde)

Ever wonder what happens when 30 beauty & fashion bloggers and vloggers get together? They host an EPIC  giveaway! We are teaming up to bring you an amazing 30-pan MAC Eye Shadow Palette filled with our favourite shades!! Enter today via the Rafflecopter form below! Ends 11:59PM EST on August 6, 2014.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What's in the palette?

Sketch, Vibrant Grape, Fig 1, Club, Shroom, Orb, Omega, Aquadisiac, Copperplate, Woodwinked, All That Glitters, Amber Lights, Cranberry, Steamy, Naked Lunch, Blanc Type, Nylon, Cobalt, Brule, Haux, Carbon, Phloof, Retrospeck, Stars & Rockets, Expensive Pink, Brun, Electra, Satin Taupe, Honeylust & Brown Script


TERMS & CONDITIONS: This giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents ages over the age of 18 and ends at 11:59PM EST on August 6, 2014. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Only one winner will be selected. This giveaway is a group buy, which means the bloggers/vloggers pooled their money together to purchase this product for you. Winner will be chosen at random from all verified entries, contacted by email provided, and announced on this page at the end of the contest. Winner has 48 hours to respond or prize will be redrawn. No prize substitutions allowed. Bloggers in this group giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. 
Tuesday, July 22, 2014

The All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com - Review


Hi cupcakes! Today I have a sneak peek into the All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com! So far, almost all the products in the box have been kept under wraps - until now! 

All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com | "Your summer hair routine, perfected."
This box contains 7 full size and deluxe size products as well as some little extras. As always, I love the box that this came in. Unfortunately, my box came looking like something had leaked all over it but I couldn't find the leak in any of the products! Mysteries of life, guys.

Sneaky peek what's inside!

Dove Pure Care Dry Oil Nourishing Treatment with Macadamia Oil - Sample size ($1.50)
Mmmmm. Talk about heaven for your split ends. I always get nervous when using oils in my hair because my hair is so thin. I used about three drops on just the ends and left it in overnight. Then I just washed it out in the morning. I also noticed that this is super nice on your skin and leaves it feeling insanely smooth. Double usage! 

Bosley Healthy Hair Rebalancing & Finishing Treatment - Full size ($24.95)
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't like, "Wait. What?" when I saw this in the box. I've seen the Bosley commercials for hair replacement but had no idea they made other hair products. This treatment contains Argan, Marula and Burdock Root oils. While your hair is damp, spray and massage a small amount of this treatment into your scalp, dry and style like normal. This treatment is supposed to rebalance dry and oily hair, relieve eczema along with any itching and condition your hair. The Marula oil is rich in antioxidants and is a potent moisturizer. The Burdock Root oil helps strengthen your hair and the Argan oil is there to provide shine. I enjoyed using this, for sure. It left my hair feeling really nice and soft.

100% Pure Honey & Virgin Coconut Restorative Shampoo - Sample size (.10 cents)
This shampoo is described as a hydrating coconut foam that deeply moisturizes and cleanses for stronger and healthier hair. I absolutely loved using this but I was a bit bummed that there wasn't much product to try even as a sample. It left my hair feeling cleansed and smelling nice. Also, props to them for being made in the USA and being cruelty-free. 

EVOLVh Shampoo & Conditioner - Deluxe size ($15)
My new faves! The shampoo gave a nice lather and really cleansed my hair. Y'know how you can just feel that it feels super clean? Bam, that's it. The conditioner was really nice as well and I liked that it didn't feel like I was deep conditioning every time  I used it. It was just a nice, light condition - perfect for my thin hair! I also liked that when I blow dryed my hair, my curls seemed WAY more defined than I've ever seen them been lately. Thumbs up!

nelson j Beverly Hills Styling Conditioner (Smooth) - Full size ($15)
YASSS! I was so excited to see this in the box! I absolutely loved the nelson j. products I received in the Summer Prep Collection. I received the Styling Conditioner in Smooth. It kind of reminds me of the It's a 10 Leave-In because this acts as a conditioner, heat protector, detangler, Argan oil shine, color protector, smoothing serum and sunscreen. Um, how awesome is that? This is definitely one of my new fave hair products to use and I'll definitely be repurchasing!

Also included: eSalon $15 gift certificate and a $25 discount on the Keranique Hair Growth bundle.

Overall: I'm in love with this box because of two main products: EVOLVh Ultrashine Shampoo and the nelson j. Beverly Hills Styling Conditioner. I think boxes like these are always awesome to try out because you get to try products you might've never thought to try. 

All About Hair Collection by TotalBeauty.com - Buy | Price: $20 ($96.55 value!)
* Special code for my readers! Use: HAIR10 and receive 10% off this box!
Monday, July 21, 2014

Baby | Top 5 Second Trimester Faves


Hey mamas! So I'm pretty well into my third trimester right now (8 more weeks to go!) but before I go off into that, I wanted to share with you my second trimester favorites. Again, these are favorites that helped me out or that I loved but they might not be for everyone. As always, I'd love to know what your second trimester favorites are/were AND your third trimester faves :) Let's do this dance.



Snoogle
If there is one thing that I feel you need from this post, it's this. The Snoogle basically made my life. I started getting random back pains right about when the second trimester started. My hips also started hurting and I couldn't get comfortable at all. It was so annoying. I don't know what it is about this thing that I can't seem to achieve with a plethora of pillows but it is ah-maze-ing and really is a lifesaver for me. I actually made the mistake of not bringing it with me on vacation and I was so miserable and got absolutely no sleep. - Buy


H&M Mama Jeans
Okay. I lied. You need the Snoogle and a few pairs of these jeans. Especially for you mama's-to-be going through the fall and winter. Ugh, imagine how cute these will be with boots? The jeans are slim-fit and some are boot cut, some are straight leg; there's so many different styles to choose from. They have a bunch of different jean shades to chose from and for $34.95-$39.95, they're high quality. Let's just say, there's been weeks ahem, days I've gone wearing nothing but these and they're still kickin'. Also, some of the jeans have a full belly panel while some have half (covers half your stomach). I prefer the full because it smoothed out my belly and I didn't feel like I had to keep pulling it up. - Buy

Old Navy Tank Tops
These babies were (and still are going into the last trimester) my best friend. It's frickin' hot and sometimes it's hard to find a shirt that works with a growing belly. Sure, it might've fit last week but now you're channeling Britney Spears midriff-baring days in a not-cute way. Not only are these tanks cheap ($8.50 AND they go on sale all the time!?!) but no matter how many times I wash them, they won't stretch (where you don't want it to) nor have they shrunk. The models don't really show it, but these are actually on the long side which is perfect for our bellies. I bought larges in the beginning of the second trimester and I'm still wearing them now at 32 weeks. A tank and those H&M Mama jeans and we're good to go! - Buy


aden + anais Stretch Mark Reducing Cream
Guys, I slathered and marinated in lotions and cocoa butters and still got stretch marks. It's basically a luck of the draw. You're going to get them or you're not. This cream is amazing for knowing, that hey, if you do get them, there's something to help reduce the appearance of them. For the best results, you should use this from the beginning. I, unfortunately, didn't know about this in the beginning but did apply from when my stretch marks first appeared and have already noticed they've lightened some. - Buy

c.Booth Tahitian Monoi Dry Oil Spray
Whenever I find my skin getting a little dry (especially my belly), I spray some of this on, rub it in real quick and within a minute, my skin feels nice and soft. Ahh, instant relief. Also, it smells like paradise. Yumm! - Buy

Also wanted to give a huge shout out to Starbucks hazelnut frapps, Dunkin Donut's Boston Creme donuts and yoga pants for holdin' me down ;)
Sunday, July 20, 2014

Share Beauty with Regency Beauty Institute Contest



Hey loves! So recently, I was asked by the Regency Beauty Institute how beauty and the people who make it, have impacted my life to share awareness of their #ShareBeauty contest they're holding where you can win a customized VIP treatment worth $2,000 courtesy of Regency Beauty Institute and Refinery29.

Regency Beauty Institute is one of the leading cosmetology schools in the nation. They have 88 campuses across the country and have been able to grow over the years by taking an innovative approach to learning and helping students to turn their creativity into beautiful careers. The “#ShareBeauty” campaign celebrates beauty and the people who make it. Our mission is a big one: create a movement celebrating beauty as a creative career, a gift that matters and something that has a positive effect on the world around us.


First off, how cute is this "Beauty Grew All Around" video? I've been humming this all day.

So how has beauty (and the people who make it) impacted my life? As a beauty blogger, I thought the answer would come easily but I've realized (especially over the past five years), that beauty is so much more than what people give it credit for. I've always thought that beauty is being the best possible version of yourself inside and out. So to me, these influential people who have used beauty to impact me aren't necessarily who you think they'd be. Sure, it's that nail artist that has insane nail tutorials that I try to copy (I mean, c'mon, how do they do their right hand!?) to make my nails look awesome, those beauty gurus I follow on YouTube to contour my face or do my hair a certain way but they're also artists who have showed me things aren't always what they appear through paintings; writers through stories, teachers who gave me confidence throughout the years even when bullies tried to take it and my mom who went through breast cancer and chemo and showed me that strength is one of the most beautiful things of all that no amount of mascara and bronzer can give you.

How to enter the #sharebeautycontest:

Entering the contest is easy!
• Try one trend (or all of them). Trends will be posted each week at the Regency landing page
• Take a photo
• Share it on Instagram (Your account must be public.)
• Hashtag each photo with #ShareBeautyContest.

Contest runs from July 8th-August 13th. One lucky winner will be chosen from the hashtags. Each person who enters will have the opportunity to win a customized VIP beauty treatment worth $2,000 from Regency and Refinery29. #sharebeauty #sharebeautycontest


* This post is sponsored by Regency Beauty Institute but all my opinions are my own.
Friday, July 18, 2014

Breakups to Makeup 'Love Raised Me Lipstick Saved Me' Makeup Clutch - Review


Hey babes! I know you just saw this in my June/July faves post yesterday but I HAD to do a full review. Because that's how I roll.

Breakups to Makeup are known for their sassy beauty quotes on t-shirts, stickers, phone cases and makeup bags ranging from, "Please, I can't even commit to a lipstick." to "I'm only helpless when my nails are driving." Clearly, these bags understand my life.

Love Raised Me Lipstick Saved Me Makeup Clutch
Not only is this bag a makeup bag but can also act as a clutch or travel bag. Love having options! I received the bag in an off-white but black canvas is also available.The clutch is approximately 8.5x8.5" and is made from a sturdy canvas material. Is there nothing better than when the interior is as cute as the exterior? The inside of this bag is an abstract (possibly floral?) design of grey, white and yellow with their logo on top. So how much can this baby hold? I put it to the test.

It holds 42 lipsticks and lipglosses of various sizes (NYX, MAC, Lime Crime, etc.)! If that isn't your style and you aren't a lipstick lover that usually carries 42 lipsticks with you at all times, this carries your cell phone, three lipsticks, a palette, a necklace and lots of room to spare.

Breakups to Makeup 'Love Raised Me Lipstick Saved Me' | Availability: Buy | Price: $35

* Press sample.
Thursday, July 17, 2014

Monthly Favorites | June/July!


Some girls would say, "Hey, it's probably too late to do a June favorites post." but not this girl. I've also added in July favorites even though it's not technically the end of July because I'm B.A. like that. Yup. Let's roll with it.


Beauty/Random Favorites:

  • L'Oreal Boost It High Lift Creation Spray - I forgot where I first saw this being used but they described it as "a lift like teasing but without the brush" and that's the best and most accurate description I've heard. It sprays out like a light mist but packs a huge punch, leaving my hair volumized without being hard.
  • It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream in Light- Basically my holy grail foundation. It just works for me and it's everything I could ask for a foundation and more. It not only is full coverage and feels like you're wearing nothing but has SPF 50 sunscreen built in without giving a weird white cast.
  • Bath & Body Works Endless Weekend - This is more of a July favorite since it just came out but ugh, talk about a summer scent. It's described as an "exhilarating blend of raspberry lychee sorbet, sunkissed magnolia and vanilla sandalwood". Basically, summer in a bottle. Oh, and the bottle's packaging is too freakin' cute to boot.
  • Riri Hearts MAC Summer Heaux - I know, I know. A deep, vampy matte red is not your typical summer lipstick shade but I don't care. This is my go-to lipcolor lately. It works with pale/tan/purple/chevron skintypes and I'm just hardcore in love with it.
  • Nivea Vanilla & Macadamia Kiss Lip Butter - I never used to use chapsticks or lip butters but I can't help but dig into this. Not only does it smell absolutely amazing (think vanilla cupcake) but keeps my lips feeling nice and smooth. 
  • Whish Coconut Milk Self Tanner | review - I just did a review on this so you all already know how much I'm obsessed with this. Definitely the most natural looking self tanner I've ever had. AND, it smells like heaven. Pure heaven.
  • Mixologie Aqua Statement Necklace - In general, statement necklaces have been my favorite thing ever this summer. My mom says they're gaudy but I just can't get enough of big, bright, eye-catching necklaces. This one in particular is from TJ Maxx and I'm dying over the aqua spikes. I wore this at my baby shower and got SO many compliments.
  • Essie Set in Stones - This had made a billion appearances on my monthly favorites lists but I just can't get enough of it. It always makes my nails look bejeweled with silver glitter. So in love!
  • Essie Haute in the Heat - I got this in my last Rite Aid Network kit and have been rockin' it ever since. It's the most beautiful red-toned raspberry that you can rock with one coat. Ah-mazing!
  • Glisten & Glow Hong Kong Girl Top Coat - My mom always asks me how I can paint my nails and be on-the-go in a matter of minutes. This topcoat is the reason why. I think it's made from magic or something because within minutes of applying over my mani, my nails are hard and dry and ready to go.
  • Breakups to Makeup "Lipstick Saved Me" Bag - I'll have a full review on this makeup bag tomorrow but I had to share this in my favorites because it's all I've been using. It's sturdy, it's freakin' adorable and it's hilarious. I can't even begin to tell you guys how much can fit in this thing!

Music Favorites:

  • Sing - Ed Sheeran
  • Cold One - Eric Church
* Some products may be press samples.
Thursday, July 17, 2014

Whish Coconut Milk Self Tanner - Review


Self tanner has definitely been a must-have for me this summer. I'm at that point in my pregnancy where I just want to be tan with soft skin and less cellulite. Cue: Whish Coconut Milk Self Tanner which is a self tanner unlike any self tanner that I've ever used before.

Whish Coconut Milk Self Tanner
Where do I even start? This self tanner is amazing! It's a self tanning body butter that keeps your skin soft and smooth while giving your skin a nice, brown tan. This tanner also has clinically proven ingredients that increase your skin's firmness by up to 32% in 8 weeks. 

I apply this in the morning or early afternoon after exfoliating, shaving and that whole shabang with a tanning glove. The consistency is that of a nice, body lotion that applies white and rubs in clear. It instantly makes my skin feel so incredibly smooth. Naturally, the issue with this is that there's no tan guard because it's a lotion but I find that as long as you pay attention to where you put it, it's kind of foolproof. This dries within a few minutes. The scent - ahhh - is the best part, guys. It smells like yummy coconut milk without ANY (and I mean ANY) self tanning scent whatsoever. I've applied this in the morning, put on clothes and went on with the day without any worries I would stink from it. I love it. Usually, I sleep with this on and than wash it off the next morning for a gorgeous tan every. single. time. Lasting time is about a week with no weird fading which is awesome. A lot of self tanners start to wear right in the inner elbow on me and it looks ridiculous. With this self tanner, it all just fades equally.

To firm your skin, Seaweed Extract, Coffee Arabica Extract and Kigelia African Fruit Extract are there to plump things up. To refine and clarify there's some Goji Berry, Soap Bark Extract and Organic Pomegranate Extract added in and lastly to keep your skin nice and moisturized there's Shea Butter, Mango Butter and Aloe. Needless to say, this self tanner has got it all!

the night before (above) | the morning after (below)
I mean, c'mon! Need I even say more? I've never had a tan like this. It's so natural. It's not the darkest I've been but it's definitely the most natural and flattering tan I've had from a self tanner. I absolutely love this and highly recommend this!

Whish Coconut Milk Self Tanner - Availability: Buy | Price: $30
* Press sample.

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

NCLA Summer of Love - Review


Hi babes! No Mascara Monday yesterday again today because, well, I'm exhausted. Our baby shower was Sunday and between the late nights spent helping put up decorations and running around yesterday, my body's like, "That's enough, Noelle. You can chill now."

So I'm chillin' and doing my nails. My nails took such a beating yesterday between crafting, decorating and opening presents (woe is my life, huh?). That's where NCLA's Summer of Love nail wraps come into play!

Summer of Love is inspired by free flowing dresses, colorful flowers and fresh spring air. I'm totally getting a fun, boho vibe from these. I love that each pattern is different ranging from chevron to more complex designs in turquoises, oranges and blues. The collection comes with 26 ultra-thin nail adhesives and a sweet NCLA nail file. Like I said in my last review, I absolutely love the range of sizes in the nail wraps. I have smaller nail beds that can sometimes be a pain to find a nail wrap match with but I never had an issue with these. 

How to apply NCLA nail wraps:

  • Start off with fresh, clean nails and than apply a coat of basecoat (I used NCLA Gloss It!) and let it dry.
  • Find the size that best fits your nail and peel from the sheet by the flap. 
  • Apply the most round part to your cuticle and stretch down until it fits perfectly. I know some are afraid to stretch it because they think it might break, but I promise you it won't. This is the most crucial part to get a nice, flat, flawless nail. 
  • Once you've fit it to your nail, firmly flatten it down starting from the cuticle and pressing your way down to the tip. 
  • Use the nail file in a downward motion to remove any excess wrap left over. Apply another coat of Gloss It! and you're all set! I really like using a coat for Gloss It! over it because it softens the nail wrap (as well as adds a shine to it) so you can go in one last time and press down anything you missed or smooth out any mistakes.
I'm lovin' that each nail is a different pattern!

Overall: Me thinks it's safe to say that NCLA nail wraps are awesome! Another mani with absolutely no issues. Specifically with Summer of Love, I'm dying over the gorgeous pattern. It automatically gives my nails a super polished look like I spent all day doing them. Again, I find the key with these is to stretch them to fit over your nail for a tight, wrinkle-free look. They're super tough and I've yet to tear one while doing this. I highly recommend this pattern if you're looking for a fun, boho, summer festival vibe!

NCLA Summer of Love | Availability: Limited EditionBuy | Price: $16
* Press sample

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