June Favorites

June has certainly flown by and it makes me a little sad because I love the summertime! This month's favorites have all been about neutrality (nothing new there) and longevity. As of late I haven't been feeling the heavier foundations and often find them too thick and a bit cakey on me. I've also been about skin care as well. For some odd reason, the area around my nose and mouth were drastically drier than the rest of my face, I blame hormones but I still wanted to fix so I've been pretty focused on that. 

I'm also going to change up my favorites. Instead of just beauty favorites, I'm going to add a game, book, and/or television/film favorite just change it up a little bit. Anyway enough of my rambling, onward! 

Beauty Favorites:

1- Makeup Forever Face & Body Foundation: I forgot I had this in my stash and wanted to try it out again. I'm more tan and my MAC Face and Body is too light to match me. This is a great foundation that doesn't feel heavy and gives me a glow. It would be a definite repurchase. Very similar to the MAC version so if you have one or the other you're fine. 

2-NARS Laguna Luminizer: I picked this up at the beginning of the month and love it. Sometimes I mix it with my foundation or apply it as a normal bronzer. It is a bit pricey but it was worth he purchase for me.

3-NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder in Crystal: Holy Grail status. I love this stuff. I haven't tried the loose version, but I've only heard good things. I only lightly apply this to my t-zone and love the finish it gives. The feeling of my skin is smooth and looks poreless. 

4-NARS Narissist Eyeshadow Palette: I love this palette. It's been loved or hated. At the pricepoint, I would say you better be sure you love it. It's probably one of the more expensive palettes I've bought to date but it's so practical it's perfect for me. 

5-MAC Pedro Lourenco Nude Quad: A limited edition and spur of the moment purchase. I had a MAC gift card given to me as a birthday gift and I finally decided to use it. I told you my favorites would all be about neutrality! Seriously this is a beautiful quad and probably one of the best ones MAC has created. All four shades are pigmented smooth and apply like a dream. If you can still get your hands on this, I highly recommend you do!

6-Caudalie Beauty Elixir: I got the smaller size to try out before I invested in the full size. I'm not too keen on the smell, it's a bit too herbal for me but my skin feels so hydrated and smooth I bypass that part. The scent does dissipate so as least I'm not smelling it all day. I apply it both day and night and will most likely get the larger size and add it permanently to my skincare routine.

7- Urban Decay Chill Spray: This is great to freshen my makeup up and to set it. The All Nighter version is better for staying power but I decided to try this out instead because it is made for normal to dry skin. 

Book Favorite:

-Insatiable: Porn - A Love Story by Asa Akira: This was dirty, raunchy, and informative. It was definitely a fun read and a great way to look into what a life of a porn star is like. If you do plan on reading this, go in with an open mind, it's definitely more graphic than 50 Shades of Grey.

Television and Film Favorites:

Penny Dreadful: So me and the Mister binge watched the entire first season on demand and really enjoyed it. We are both fans of the old classics like Dracula, Dorian Gray, and Helsing so this was right up our alley. Plus Eva Green is phenomenal in it. Highly recommend and I can't wait for season two. 

Edge of Tomorrow: Time travel films often have plot holes but this one manages to get by without it. I know here are a lot of Tom Cruise haters but the film itself is excellent. A definite sleeper hit for this summer's blockbusters.

Game Favorite:

Child of Light: Ohmigod this game. It's a downloadable game available on Xbox 360 and One and the PS3 and PS4. Probably the best $15.00 I've spent on a game. The artwork is beautiful, story is solid, and the music!!! I'm going to the perfectionist and get all the trophies because I love this game so much. 

Phew, what a long entry! I hope you enjoyed the post and also your holiday weekend! Please if you can leave your thoughts about me adding the entertainment part to my favorites. 

Favorites: November and Mid-December Hits

I think I say this every month, but gosh these few months have flown by. I can't believe we are less than ten days away from Christmas! Have you gotten all your shopping done yet? For the first time in a while, I have to say I'm pretty much done with the exception of a few little extra gifts I need to get. Before I know it, it will be 2014. Wow!

Anyway, I decided to include both November and my current December hits because I have been using the same things constantly. I am also testing out some other new items for review, so that's why my favorites are also so few. I also think I have so few because the products I have can create a natural but flawless face.

Totally photobombing with my reflection lol

NYX Gloss in Creme Brulee: This has again made it to my favorites. I can't get enough of this stuff! It mutes my lips just enough without washing me out and I am totally digging the scent. If you want to read my full thoughts on this, check out my review here.

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Bronzer: I picked this up during the Too Faced Friends and Family sale and I have to say I am really enjoying this. My skin gets very pale during the colder months and this is a great for adding warmth. If I concentrate it, it is also a nice contour since its not shimmery or orange.

Hourglass Ambient Powder in Diffused Light: This is so pretty. Just everything about it is pretty, the packaging and the result it gives. I use this as a setting powder all over my face and it just gives such a nice glow without looking oily or greasy. It is pricey so if you want to try it, ask for a sample first before you commit.

MAC Soba eye shadow: I don't know why I didn't add this to my repertoire a long time ago. This is great for a perfect wash of color on my lids. It creates a subtle, smoky eye that is great for everyday. I think this shadow is also great for adding depth for more dramatic looks.

So that's it for my favorites! I hope everyone is staying warm!

Favorites: October

I can't believe October is over already! I hope everyone had a great October and will have a safe but fun Halloween! Now onto the favorites.

1-Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Moisturizer Stick: This has been my purse lip balm for the past few weeks. While it's not as moisturizing as the potted version, it does the job. I do enjoy the citrus-y scent and am really glad it doesn't have that overpowering fake honey smell a lot of honey products have.
2-Nuxe Reve de Miel Honey Lip Balm : I love using this stuff at night before bed. When I wake up, my lips are soft and smooth. The texture of this is great, it's not super glossy so I don't have to worry about it sliding all over my lips and onto my pillow cases. This smells the same as the stick version.
3-The Body Shop Honeymania Lip Butter: Another honey product that doesn't smell sickly sweet. Instead it has a floral scent that I love. I alternate this with the Nuxe balm at night and sometimes use this in the morning as a base for my lips.
4-NYX Butter Gloss in Creme Brulee: I just posted a review on this so I won't go too much into it, with the exception of me stating that I LOVE this gloss. I carry with me everywhere and know I will repurchase once I'm done with this.
5-First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: I bought this after seeing my friend's Instagram. She stated that her face felt "as smooth as a baby's bottom," so I knew that I needed to try this. The area under my nose has been peeling like crazy with the transitioning weather so I knew I needed to remedy this. So far, the dryness has been minimized and my face does feel very smooth. I will be purchasing the tub version once I get my VIB Friends and Family code!
6-Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation: I absolutely am in love with this. I remember reading a magazine years ago that Nicole Sherzinger used this on her days off and I always wanted to try it because I think she's gorgeous. I finally bit the bullet and purchased it in the middle of October and have been using it ever since. I believe it does come in a lighter shade but since the coverage is sheer it can fit a range of complexions. If you want a review on this let me know!
7- PS3 Lego Marvel Super Heroes: The game I have been playing non-stop. I usually try to Platinum on each of my Lego games so I can spend hours and hours just playing. Plus, I'm a Marvel fan so seeing it in Lego form is pretty exciting.

Hope you enjoyed my favorites! Happy Halloween!

May Favorites

Happy June! The warmer weather is finally here on the East Coast and I couldn't be happier! I've been living in shorts and tank tops since the weather has changed. My favorites haven't changed much from the previous month but I have been incorporating some different items to add some variety to the mix.

Starting from left to right:

1) L'Occitane Rose Des Champes hand lotion: Ever since I started lifting weights, the palms of my hands have been very dry. They are also callused as well. So I keep this on my desk and use it every time I wash my hands or when it's feeling a bit dry. It smells of roses and has tiny scent beads. While I really like this, the original L'Occitane Shea Butter formula moisturizes a tad better.

2) L'Oreal True Blend Concealer Crayon in W1-2-3: Smooth to apply and brightens just enough. I do have to powder after application so it stays put.

3) MAC Mineralize Concealer in NC20: I love this concealer. It doesn't settle into lines and stays put. I use this over my MAC face and body for the perfect amount of coverage.

4) Neutrogena MoistureSmooth Color Stick in Juicy Peach: It seems the crayon packaging has become a hit among all these cosmetic brands. Not that I'm complaining! These are great to throw in your purse on the go. Unlike the Clinique and Revlon versions (I haven't tried the CoverGirl version) this contains a bit of shimmer. Like the Clinique version, it is quite moisturizing, unlike the Clinique version it does have a fruity scent.

5) Hourglass Lip Treatment Oil: This is holy grail status to me. I tried it on in store and thought, "meh," it's probably overrated. OMG. I swear in the time I was at the store, it made my lips crazy soft and plump. I was sold. It's quite pricey at $42 USD a tube with 0.25 fl oz so I use it sparingly once a day. At night I use my beloved Dior balm. It smells like lavender/herb medicinal but it dissipates.

6) Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Lip Stain in Honey: Another one I like to throw on and forget about. It's a universal shade that is quite flattering on all skin tones I've seen. It leaves behind a slightly darker stain on lips. Smells minty. This does slightly dry my lips if I reapply too much, but I do love it.

7) Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner: When I want my eyes to stand out more, I do a cat eye with this baby. The liner doesn't budge or flake and applies like a dream. No skipping yet and I've had this for months now.

8) Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden: Unlike the original UDPP, this contains a bit of color to neutralize my lids. Sometimes I wear this alone and slap my Stila eyeliner on and call it a day. The only issue I've encountered with this slight creasing if I apply too much. So I dab a small amount on and blend it onto my eyes with a synthetic brush in layers.

April Favorites!

The month of April has flown by crazy fast. Holy moly! Anyway, here are my current faves both beauty and fitness wise. I hope you enjoy!

Starting from left to right:
1) Dior Diorshow Brow Styler in Universal Brown-I don't know about this being universally brown and all that but this definitely helped lighten by brows since I've highlighted my hair. The pencil is retractable which is great for me cause I hate sharpening eye pencils and wasting the product. It also contains a spoolie at the other end to help blend the color. A bit expensive but I think it's a great investment.

2)NARS Madly Blush -Recommended by my good friend LC (LdotCdot) I have been in love with this blush.  It's stated to be a "soft seashell pink" but I find it to be a bit brown. When applied it gives a beautiful sheen that lasts all day on me. By far one of my favorite blushes. A definite repurchase whenever I finish.

3)Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze -Slap it on and I'm good to go. Seriously. Well with mascara and maybe some eyeliner. This is a great primer/base. I have not experienced creasing at all with these color tattoos. If you haven't checked them out, I highly recommend that you do. They come in a bunch of different colors and are pretty inexpensive. Just word of advice, skip the purple one from the original line, it applies patchy and the color payoff is terrible.

4) Dior Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm - This lip balm is AMAZING! I use it every night and morning and my lips feel smooth and supple. I think the "plumping" aspect comes from how hydrated your lips get because there is no stinging or weird tingly sensations with this balm. Another definite repurchase even if it is $27.00 *eye twitch*

5) MAC Face and Body in C2 - I've gotten so pale that even NC25 is too dark for me. My skin has also been a dry, flaky hot mess and all of my regular foundations began to form nasty looking patches on my face.  I had done a previous post of this foundation in the shade C4 about two years ago and really liked it. Obviously C4 is way too dark for me now so I picked up this foundation in C2. A perfect match for me. Another plus? My skin looks great with it. This is definitely a foundation that is light in terms of coverage but I thoroughly enjoy it and will find myself using it often.

6) MAC MSF Natural in Medium - Again, I picked this up because all my face powders including my MSF in Medium Plus were too dark for me. A great setting powder for Face and Body. It adds a subtle glow and doesn't cake all over my face. In the summer I will probably switch back to my MAC Prep and Prime translucent powder to control the oil.

Fitness Favorites:

Jaybird BlueBuds X Bluetooth Headphones - I had been on the hunt for new headphones. My beloved Beats by Dre were just not cutting it at the gym for me anymore. They kept getting tangled or pulled on when I was lifting and then when I ran, they would fly out of my ears! It's very distracting to constantly readjust your headphones and I don't know about you but when I work out, it's all about focus. 

Anyway, I browsed the interwebz searching high and low for headphones that would suit me. I originally wanted the Jaybird Sports Band, but my fear of having flat, indented hair (yes I know it's vain) caused my hesitation. It wasn't until a few days later, that an awesome fitness competitor (she has her own review on these) I follow on Instagram, posted a picture of these headphones. I was sold. These headphones are fantastic, ridiculously comfortable and they're wireless! I got a pair for me and the Mister since he was having the same issues. So far no complaints. 

UnderAmour Toxic Six Running Shoes - A wonderful gift from the Mister for all the hard work I have been putting in at the gym. It's suppose to mimic and enhance the way your foot naturally moves. Besides the beautiful design and colors of the sneaker, I am thoroughly impressed by how comfortable they are. These are so comfortable, that I want to wear these all the time but that wouldn't be fair to my other fitness kicks (which are pretty cute as well.) I know I will eventually get the blue versions on these, but currently these definitely have my heart.

Again, I hope you enjoyed my favorites of April. Please let me know if you tried any of these products and agree or disagree! Have a great week!

February Favorites

It's been a relatively quiet month for me for beauty products. I have put myself on a shopping ban (necessities not included). Again, it's a way to cycle through the things I have and also to discipline myself. I know I have a very BAD shopping habit which I need to take control of!

My current favorites have been things I've been using religiously, I've noticed that I can't force myself to use a product if I don't like it. I guess I don't like to settle on things, which can be both a good thing or a bad thing if you want to think about it!

Favorites from left to right:
1-NARS Pure Radiated Tinted Moisturizer in Alaska - This is by far my favorite TM. Laura Mercier comes a close second, but I love the way this makes my skin glow. The downside? The color is too dark for me now! I wore it out yesterday and noticed that my face was slightly darker than my neck (btw an instant fix for that during the winter is to wear a scarf!) So when my shopping ban is up, I think I'll need to pick up Finland, the lightest out of the line.

2. MAC Prep and Prime Transparent Finishing Powder - This is the best setting powder for me, winter or summer. I use a lighter hand during the winter because my skin tends to be very dry. I rarely have to retouch my face when I use this, other powders not so much.

3. Josie Maran Argan Oil - I got this with my Clarisonic Mia set along with some other Josie Maran products. This winter has been brutal to my skin, especially my face. My face still feels dry and tight regardless of how much lotion I put on. So I layer this underneath my moisturizer and it does wonders. My face feels supple and my dark marks are slowly fading away. When my small jar is used up, you bet your bottom dollar I'll be getting a regular sized version of this!

4. Laura Mercier Secret Finish - I bought this on a whim in the summer and forgot about it. I was trying to rotate my products and look for products that would make my skin look dewy and fresh. Ideally, this should be applied as a finisher to your makeup, kind of like a spray but I've noticed that if you use too much you can move around the coverage you have on your face. The way I like to apply it is before my foundation. I feel it adds a nice amount of tact to help the foundation adhere to my face. I'll have to play with it a bit more (the proper way) to see how I feel about it.

5. Revlon PhotoReady Perfecting Primer - I've had a love/hate relationship with primers. Some break me out, some feel gross on my face, some do nothing etc., etc., This keeps my foundation on my face without that slick feeling and makes my face feel smooth. The pump is an additional bonus!

6. CoverGirl Clump Crusher Mascara - Lengthens my lashes without the clumps. I love the brush on this mascara and the formula isn't too wet which is what I prefer. The version I have is the regular because I couldn't wait for the waterproof version to come out. You all know my love for waterproof because of the curl hold. This is a great mascara to use when running errands, the curl doesn't completely drop on my lashes which is a plus!

7. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipgloss in Mirrored Mauve - I did a previous post on these glosses here. My favorite has been Mirrored Mauve because of the versatile ways I can use it.

8. Urban Decay Theodora Palette - I LOVE this palette. It has been the only palette that I've been using. Highly recommended for those of you who are Oz and makeup fans. I have to say, every UD palette I've gotten I have not been disappointed in, so kudos UD!

Whoa, what a long post. I guess I always get carried away with my favorites. Anyway, hope you all are having a wonderful weekend and Happy March! We are only 19 days away from spring! 

February Favorites!

Can you believe it's March already!? These months have been flying by. Anyway, not to delay the post, here are my favorites from last month!

Starting from Left to Right:

1-MAC Tendertone in Tread Gently: I cannot get enough of this balm/gloss. It doesn't deposit any color my lips, but does have a green iridescent shimmer that makes my lips appear plump and glossy. I've been carrying this everywhere with me.

2-Maybelline Superstay 10(hr) Stain Gloss in Pink Plush: This is what I've been reaching for when I want a bold lip. If you want to see the swatches of the colors I have, check out my post here.

3-Revlon Lip Butter in Peach Parfait: Great for everyday wear. This is probably my favorite color out of the bunch I've gotten. When I have it on, the peach color looks very flattering against my skin.

Me wearing Peach Parfait and also my three other favorites!

4-L'Oreal 24hr Infallible Eyeshadow in Eternal Sunshine and Bronzed Taupe: I love the texture of these eyeshadows. I found these are best applied with clean fingers and blended gently. They definitely last quite a long time on my lids without creasing (8-12hrs). I would definitely recommend these!  In the picture above, I have both of these on my lids.

5-Maybelline Color Tattoo 24 hr Cream Shadow in Bad to the Bronze: What a long name! These are great alone or as a base. I usually wear a primer underneath so I don't know how these would fair without. I'm wearing this cream shadow as a base underneath my Infallible eyeshadows in the above photo as well. 

6-Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Exposed: A lovely nude pink blush that adds the right amount of color without looking overdone. When I'm lazy or short on time, I use this in the hollows of my cheeks to create depth and warmth.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend! 

July Favorites!

It's a small group this month, I haven't really been wearing much makeup due to how hot it is! Plus my skin has been acting up lately, (insert sad face) so I'm trying to let it breathe.

Going clockwise

1-Michael Kors perfume: This perfume smells wonderful! It's a floral mix with a bit of musk. It's classy and great for everyday.

2-Versace Versus rollerball: Another floral scent which has been a favorite. I got it as a sample from a Sephora order back in May. I loved it so much that I purchased the rollerball to bring with me everywhere I go. It also has some fruity notes as well. 

3-Fairydrop Scandal Queen Mascara (original formula): I purchased this before the waterproof version came out. I usually tend to stay away from regular formula mascaras since they never hold my curl but while this one doesn't keep my curl entirely, it doesn't make my lashes wilt. Another plus is that it's sooo easy to wash off! Just warm water and the mascara comes off. It doesn't smudge throughout the day either.

4-Inglot Sleeks Lipgloss in 89: I love this neutral pinky gloss. Smells like vanilla and isn't sticky at all. I also adore the packaging. Pigmented enough to go alone or you can layer it over your lipstick as well.

5-Physician's Formula Eye Booster Eyeliner in Ultra Black: Does it really boost my lashes? I haven't noticed but this eyeliner is perfect to create a cat eye and it doesn't budge until you wash it off. Well, it can be wiped away if you cry or have an allergy attack. So it's not fully waterproof but this is the best drugstore eyeliner I've encountered.

6-MAC Prolong Wear Foundation in NC30: Perfect for those sticky days. This foundation is great for those with oily skin. I find I'm not such a greaseball when I use this.

7-MAC Mineralized Blush in Pressed Amber: Great for contour or blush, especially for a lazy girl like me!

I also took the liberty to lighten my ends even further for the ombre effect. I took the pic on my phone but it's considerably lighter. The only thing I hate is how dry the ends feel. Oh well, nothing a conditioning masque or two can't fix right?

I hope all of you are well! Have a great Sunday!

June Favorites!

I haven't done a favorites post in ages! I truly apologize, it has been my fault that the past few months I've been randomly trying different products and not sticking to certain particular items. However, this past month I've been consistently using certain products that I have been loving. Huzzah!

1-MAC Surf, Baby! Studio Careblend Pressed Powder in Gold-Go-Lightly: This is the powder that I've been using to contour my face every time I go apply my makeup. The powder is fine and blends really well. This probably has replaced my NARS Laguna bronzer especially since it's a matte powder.

2-MAC Bite of an Apple Blush: This blush is super pigmented and leaves a lovely glow on my cheeks. This was originally from the Venomous Villans collection.

3-Inglot custom palette: I bought this palette when I was in Vegas and chose the colors myself. I love that I can throw this in my bag for touch ups and also cause it's very neutral, but still versatile enough for an evening look. Top colors: KI13CF, KE28CF Bottom: KH17CK, KH05CC

4-Jack Black Lip balm in Grapefruit & Ginger: My new favorite lip balm! My lips have been so smooth and moisturized since I've started using this. I also have the black tea and blackberry one in my purse. Both smell amazing.

5-Lancome Custom Design Lipstick in Oh My!: I got the lipstick as a gift with purchase when I purchased their summer Color Fever glosses. This is such a lovely color. I thought it would super brown how the sheer wash of color is beautiful. I would describe it as a peach color with shimmer. I think it's neutral enough to wear everyday but some reviewers from MUA believe it's too shimmery for work. /Shrugs

6-Lancome Color Fever Lip Gloss in Peach Paradise: I have to thank Steph for turning me on to these glosses. For some reason I thought the Color Fever glosses would be sticky and tacky. I based this assumption off their Juicy Tubes which I don't like at all. These glosses are smooth and apply like a dream. I highly recommend!

7-Cover Girl & Olay Simply Ageless Eye Concealer in 210: This brightens up my eyes and applies like a cream. Word of advice, if the color seems a little too dark in the jar, remember the white stripes of the Olay serum will lighten it. I do not recommend using this around the nose if you are Oily/Combo. It gets a little slick.

I also decided to add my jewelry favorites!

1-Octopus Necklace from Tia's Place: I fell in love with this necklace when I was in Grand Central Station. I was stuck between choosing the ring or the necklace and felt the necklace was more versatile. I have yet to name him (I have a habit of naming things) but I've been wearing this necklace with everything!

2-Jewelmint Sweetheart Ring: I've been eyeing this ring since the website launched. Now that I finally have it, I've been wearing the ring on my index finger or middle finger. 

3-Eve's Addiction Elephant's on a Parade Ring: I'm a huge lover of elephants and have been told that they are good luck. I had been searching for an elephant ring that wasn't gaudy or obnoxious looking and fell in love with this one. There are three elephants each connected by their trunk and tail. 

Whew, this was a longer post than I expected! Hope all of you are well and Happy 4th if I don't post before then!