Sephora VIB Freebie

The one thing that I love about Sephora is that they definitely pay it forward when it comes to rewarding their loyal customers with gifts and other promotions.  You can sign up for free and be a Sephora Beauty Insider, where you'll get emails on latest deals, trends, and promotions.  However, when you spend a certain amount as a Beauty Insider, you can get bumped up to a VIB status, where you get even bigger freebies with purchases or promotions.

With my latest purchase from Sephora, I was gifted with a small NARS goody bag filled with deluxe samples of three of NARS products:

- Orgasm Illuminator
- Laguna Bronzing Powder
- Eye Primer

I love these and definitely will find a lot of use for them, especially when it comes to traveling.  I can't get enough of deluxe sample sizes of products I love because it makes traveling a lot more convenient.

I have been a VIB for a while now and I can say that the promotions offered to VIB members are amazing.  However, it can also be a problem because it just means that I am always spending a little bit at Sephora because I am seeing all of these offers.  I have definitely learned when to take advantage of a good deal and when to skip out because it's just not necessary.



xoxo,

Eve

OPI Color So Hot It Berns

I have getting back into the routine of applying nail polish again.  I took a break from wearing polish routine because I was just too busy and was honestly too lazy to apply them.  But after reorganizing my nail polish collection, I found this gorgeous OPI polish that I just had to wear.

This winter has been really interesting lately, we have had cold days, however we have those occasional warm days that just screams Spring.  What better than OPI's Color So Hot It Berns to welcome in the warmer season.

Color So Hot It Berns is a beautiful bright red that just pops on the nails.  It is extremely creamy and opaque in a little over one coat.  I wore this to an Oscar party that one of my friends was hosting, and it was perfect for the occasion.  Definitely going to be wearing this shade for all of those special evenings out for that classic red look.



xoxo,

Eve

Sephora Haul

Last Saturday I had a girls day with my brother's girlfriend, and we decided to spend the day working out, having lunch, and just browsing around the mall.  However, we all know just browsing around the mall always gets into trouble because we always come home with a bunch of unintentional purchases.

And that's what happened to me at Sephora.  I had not planned on making any purchases there while we were looking around, but I should have known better by now.  I picked up the following items:

- SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone Moisturizing Activator
- SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone Super Model Legs
- SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone Detox Elixir
- NARS Pro Prime primer

And because I am a VIB member, I received a very cute and nice NARS gift of their amazing samples for free (always a plus!).

I knew I wanted a full sized version of the NARS Pro Primer primer, so while I was there I thought I'd just pick it up since I am almost out of my sample size.

While I was there, I noticed they were having a 50% off sale on all of there SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone products, which are absolutely amazing products for the skin.  Sephora is discontinuing the line in their stores, so they were selling all of the products for half off.  I was amazed to see such a price reduction and knew I had to take advantage of it since the SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone products usually range from $40-$50.

Although I purchased more than I planned on, I believe the savings I got from the SUPER by Dr Nicholas Perricone products and the free NARS goodies made it all worth it.  Look forward to individual reviews coming soon!



xoxo,

Eve

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

This post is around 3 months over due, however I still wanted to review the Urban Decay Naked 2 palette for anyone out there that are still considering making the purchase but still have not come to a final decision yet.

Urban Decay released their Naked 2 palette in early December of 2011, and I purchased the palette the first day it was released.  Like the original Naked palette, the Naked 2 palette features a collection of 12 full sized Urban Decay neutral shadows.  The Naked and Naked 2 palette has been one of the best selling products in the beauty industry since 2010, with both palettes selling out for months after their release.

The Naked 2 palette has a mixture of matte and frosty neutral shadows.  The main difference between the original palette and the Naked 2 is the packaging.  The Naked 2 has a metal packaging with a snapped closure and a larger mirror.  A lot of people say that the Naked and Naked 2 palette shadows are very similar to each other and there's no justifying purchasing both, however I find that the Naked 2 palette contains more of a taupe or cooler brown shades while the original Naked contains more bronzed and warmer shades.  What I appreciate most about the Naked 2 palette is that they included a matte black for a liner option and a matte highlight color.

The only complaint I have about the Naked 2 palette overall is that Half Baked was included in the palette, even though it was already included in the original Naked palette.  I thought they could have been a bit more creative and come up with a new neutral shade in substitute for Half Baked.

As for the quality fo the shadows, Urban Decay still lives up to high quality and very pigmented shadows that apply smoothly and blend like a dream.  The double ended synthetic brush included in the palette is absolutely wonderful.  A flat shader brush pats on the color amazing and the fluffy blending end helps create an even look.

Although I did not care for the gloss included with the set, I can understand that a mini primer potion was getting a bit repetitive for them.  I would have just preferred eliminating the gloss overall, which would have lowered the $50 price for the set a bit.

Overall, I find the Naked 2 palette one of the best palettes I have ever come across.  Between the original Naked and the Naked 2, I have to say I gravitate more towards the Naked 2 palette because I do prefer the taupe shades more.  Also, the matte black and highlighter shades does make the palette more wearable.  I still love my original Naked palette and think that between these two neutral palettes, I'll have all I need when it comes to eye shadows for a very long time.



xoxo,

Eve

C9 by Champion Active Wear

Who says you can feel beautiful by working out? Yes you sweat and get all gross while working out, but when you make yourself feel beautiful and cute while burning calories, you might find yourself with a lot more motivation and confidence, which leads to a more fun workout session.

I always find that fun, cute, and bright clothes that make me feel good always makes my work out sessions more fun.  When I find myself wearing old shirts and sweats, I just feel more gross.  But clothes with a pop of something extra brings a new light.  What's even better is that you don't have to spend a lot to look great while working out.  Target carries the C9 by Champion active wear that are designed to be great quality active wear without the higher end prices.

Seamless Cami Sports Bra

The ribbed design of the bra molds to the body perfectly and comfortably, providing amazing support.  The wider band underneath the chest gives the extra support and comfort and the knit mesh is extremely breathable.  These come in a variety of colors.  I decided to pick up a neon yellow, bright pink, and vibrant blue, although I think I might go back and pick up the other colors too.

Reversible Short

Running shorts are something that I can't get enough of.  They are so comfortable and make summer days much more fun.  I find myself wearing running shorts for a lot of reasons other than running and working out.  On warm days, they are easy to toss on with a simple tee shirt and run errands, go to the park/beach, or just lounge around.  When I saw these reversible running shorts at Target, I thought they were too cute to pass up.  The colors are cute, a pink and grey, and being reversible makes they more versatile.  They aren't too short, and are extremely comfortable.  The fit is perfect, not making my bottom look big or saggy like some running shorts might do, and they are affordable.

Running Capri

While I am working out, I don't always feel like wearing shorts, and longer workout pants can get a bit uncomfortable if I plan on a longer workout session.  I finally opted for a capri and I am so glad I purchased my first pair of Capri Running Pants.  I always stayed away from capri work out pants because I thought with me being short that it would just look odd on me.  However, these C9 by Champion Running Capri Pants are the perfect length and fit.  They had a nice fit through the hips and thigh for that needed support, while still being comfortable.  The material is cooling and is designed with a tiny pocket for keys.

So if you're looking for affordable and stylish active wear, check out the C9 by Champion line at your local Target.

xoxo,

Eve

Neutrogena Deep Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes

I try not to carry so many things around with me in my handbag, I hate having a lot of things that I don't use stuffed inside my bag because it just adds a lot of unnecessary weight.  However, one thing I always make sure I have on hand with my is the travel package of the Neutrogena Deep Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes.

The Neutrogena Deep Clean Oil-Free Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes are pre-moistened wipes that are incredibly soft and moisturizing that remove any traces of makeup, dirt, or oil.

There are so many occasions where I get out of work, school or the gym, and I get that one phone call that I have to meet up with someone right away and my face feels horrible and just needs to be freshened up.  These wipes are the perfect solution for a quick on the go cleanse to clean and brighten up your face.  There's no residue after using these wipes and you don't need to cleanse afterwards, so they are perfect for on the go.



xoxo,

Eve

Butter London The Old Bill

If you have been following me for a while you know that one of my weaknesses when it comes to beauty products are nail polishes.  One of my favorite higher end brand of nail polish is Butter London, which can be found at most Ulta stores.

Butter London can be pretty pricey, but when you find them for a deal, such as Buy One Get One 50% Off, you definitely should take advantage of it.  I purchased this specific Butter London polish, The Old Bill during one of their amazing promos.

The Old Bill is a golden copper shade that had refined shimmers in it, so it's not chunky at all.  I love how opaque the polish is for being one of the shimmery polishes, most likely because the base of the polish is colored, not clear.  The application of the polish is very easy and smooth.  It's opaque in up to two even coats and when applied with a strong top coat, you can find your polish lasting up to one week.

I feel that this shade will look better against my skin tone once I have a bit of a tan, so I can't wait to get more use out of this shade during the summer season.



xoxo,

Eve

The Body Shop Shea Body Butter

I have finally taken one of my New Year goals seriously and made my first body butter purchase.  One of my goals for 2012, which will hopefully extend beyond 2012, is to take better care of the skin beyond my face.  I am well aware of the things I need to do to keep the skin on my face healthy, but I find myself ignoring the rest of my body most of the time.

Because it's also the winter season, I have to make sure I am constantly giving my skin enough moisture so that it does feel nourished and stays healthy.  I find my legs annoyingly dried at times just because of all of the stress from shaving.

So, I finally decided to visit The Body Shop and make my first shea body butter purchase.  The Body Butters are thicker creams that is suppose to provide rich moisture.  It is formulated with antioxidants and Vitamins A and E to help protect your skin.

The Shea Body Butter leaves my skin extremely soft and smooth and really makes my skin feel replenished.  A little definitely goes a long way, and even with it being a thicker cream, it does now weight down your skin at all.  Absolutely loving this and hoping that I continue to stick to it.



xoxo,

Eve

Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadows

I have always enjoyed Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow, so when Lancome was offering a free gift set over the Holidays that included three of their full sized Color Design shadows in neutral shades I knew I just had to have it.

Latte, Kitten Heel, Mannequin

These Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadows come in a variety of colors and finishes that will suite anybody.  The formulation of the Color Design shadows are great, giving a very smooth texture and easy application.  The shadows feel very buttery to the touch, making the colors buildable and blendable.  The colors are absolutely beautiful and the pigmentation of the shadows are amazing.

Latte

Latte is a beautiful creamy white color in a matte finish that just works perfectly as a highlighting shade.  I love to use Latte as a highlighting shade for my brow bone and the inner corners.  It also works wonderfully as a face highlighter because it is a matte shade.

Kitten Heel

Kitten Heel is a beautiful rosy pink with a shimmer finish.  Rosy pinks are great for Spring and Summer seasons.  Sweep them all over the lid and pair them with a nice neutral crease color and you'll have a great every day look.  Kitten Heel also looks beautiful as a blush color.

Mannequin

Mannequin is a basic neutral with a shimmer finish that is blendable and buildable.  With a light hand you can sweep this color all over your lids to create a simple daytime look, or focus it in the crease to create that beautiful night time look.



xoxo,

Eve

ANNOUNCEMENT: Stila Giveaway Winner!!!

My Stila giveaway has been closed for a few days now, and I finally have the time to announce the winner.  Everyone who entered was put into a random drawing...

Congratulations to ......


Woaahitsfrances (also known as Frances Lupo) !!!!!

You can check out her blog here: http://woaahitsfrances.blogspot.com/

The winner has been contacted and she has 48 hours to claim her prize (or else I will randomly choose another winner).

Thank you so much to everyone that entered.  I will continue to host more giveaways on some of my favorite products in the future, so please keep your eyes out for those!


xoxo,

Eve

February My Glam Bag

When I saw My Glam Bag package in the mail today I was quite excited (a little more excited than my Birchbox package).  Although the My Glam package did come a little later than expected (everyone was looking forward to having it before Valentine's day) it wasn't a big let down for me because they do have so many clients.

The products I received this month are the following:

- X Out Shine Control Moisturizer
- NYX Roll On Shimmer Powder
- Premier Dead Sea Cinderella Mask
- NuMe Hair Products $100 Gift Certificate
- Freeman Facial Mask Sachets
- Ghiradelli Chocolate Treat (which I already dove into and enjoyed!)

After going through the bag for the month of February, I am quite excited to try everything.

I can't get enough of masks, so getting two samples of masks this month is just a special treat in my mind.  I am quite curious about the other products and can't wait to test everything out, especially the $100 certificate towards NuMe products (amazing!).

Also, the design of the bag for this month is extremely cute and very fitting for the theme of the month.



xoxo,

Eve

David Kahn Jeans

I know this is a beauty blog, however I find fashion absolutely beautiful.  And because of that I wanted to share the new loves of my life.....

I have always heard such great things about David Kahn designer jeans, and I admire them so much when I see them in department stores.  However, the price tag for the jeans were just too steep for me.  That was until I saw them on sale on Hautelook.com!

When I saw his jeans on sale on Hautelook.com my jaw literally dropped, and I made my way to the sale to ensure that I wasn't missing out on anything amazing.  Luckily, I snagged two amazing deals, and I couldn't be any happier.

I purchased two pairs of jeans:

The first being the Nikki Straight leg jean, which is valued at $206, but I only paid $64.  It's a basic straight leg jean with beautiful contrast tone top stitching.  It's a classic construction with a bit of a stretch for tat extra comfort.

The second pair is the Nikki Jean Jegging, valued at $189, but I only paid $64.  I can't get enough of jeggings, and these are just so luxurious.  They are a stretch denim jegging with the contrast tone topstitching and a skinny leg.

I am in love with the wear and comfort of these jeans.  When I put them on for the first time I was amazed with how comfortable they were and the range of movement I can do without feeling like any other denim.  I love the classic and simple embroidered detail on the backside and I love the wash of both of the jeans.

The only downside is that the length of David Kahn jeans are very long, and because I am quite short I do need to have these altered.  However, for the deal I got it's definitely worth it!



xoxo,

Eve

February Birchbox

I received my February Birchbox at the beginning of the week, and I finally have time to share it with all of you.  As always, Birchbox made my February box look extra special with it's great packaging.  The products I received for the month of February are the following:

- Benta Berry G-1 Moisturizing Face Cream
- Colorescience pro Glow and Go Travel Puff
- Eye Rock Designer Liners
- LA Fresh Waterproof Makeup Remover
- Heart Shaped Nail File
- Digital Download for 6 free tunes from Green River Ordinance

I have to admit that I was not too impressed with this month's box.  Although it is packed with quite a few sample of products, I don;t find myself drawn to or really excited about a certain item.  I personally would prefer less items included in the box if the sample sizes were a bit larger.

I am still quite curious about a few of these brads, see that I have not tried any of them before.  However, this month's box was a let down for me, and I'm hoping next month won't be the same.



xoxo,

Eve

Julep Meryl

Julep Maven polishes have recently gotten a lot of raves in the online beauty community lately, due to the launch of their Julep Maven program.  The Julep Maven program is like any other beauty subscription program where for $20 a month, you get sent a box with polishes and other treats from Julep.

The latest polish that I received in my Julep Maven Box is the shade in Meryl, which is a very creamy gray colored polish.  I have to say that I don't have a color like this in my nail collection, so it's quite nice to have something new.

The Julep polishes have a reputation of being very creamy, opaque, and true to color.  I have to agree that the color payoff of this shade is amazing.  It is an opaque color and the color is a beautiful gray that isn't a flat gray color.  I absolutely love grays and shades like this for transitioning between seasons.

The only negative thing I have to say about the polish itself is the application.  Although it is a creamy polish color, it is also a runny polish.  So if you have very small or short nail beds, the polish will run all over the place once you apply it if you are not careful.

The wear of the polish is like any other higher end polish.  It wears pretty well with a nice top coat over the shade.


xoxo,

Eve

Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner

I had purchased this Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner a few months ago and have been using it every so often ever since.  I wanted to give some time to play around with the product before using it, but some how had forgotten to review about it until just recently.

I have always been a big fan of the Make Up For Ever products, especially their pencil liners and aqua creams.  They have a reputation of great quality products that just last.  When I heard about these aqua liners and read a few reviews on them, I decided that they would be a nice liner to give a try.

The Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner is a liquid liner that is suppose to be a waterproof liner.  The liner is formulated with polymers that give them the ability to have a strong hold against water.  Paired with the foam tip applicator, it gives you a quick and smooth application for that long lasting liner look.

I have to say that the formula of the liner is impeccable.  I purchased the shade in a matte black and it's the only matte black liquid liner I own.  Being a matte black gives your eyes a great look and shape without being too intense.  Also, I have to say that out of all of the liquid liners I own, the Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner has to be the only one to have such a long wear and resistance to water and daily wear.  The color did not budge or smudge throughout the day, and by the end of the day all you need is a bit of eye makeup remover to gently remove the liner.

The foam tip applicator is extremely precise, coming to a very nice point.  This gives you the ability to make a very thin line without any trouble.  Although, because the applicator does come to a very find point, it was a bit hard to work with at first.  If you are looking to make a very thick, lined look, it may take a little practice and time.  However, the overall result is amazing.

These liners come in such a wide range of fun and neutral colors, just like all of the other Make Up For Ever products.  I am definitely considering picking up the brown aqua liner for a more subtle lined look in the near future.


Check out the STILA GIVEAWAY I am hosting: http://www.luuux.com/node/3455285?blog_id=31398



xoxo,

Eve

Deborah Lippmann 'The Stripper to Go' Nail Lacquer Remover Finger Mitts

I received a single sample of this Deborah Lippmann 'The Stripper to Go' Nail Lacquer Remover Finger Mitts from Birchbox a little while ago, and I finally decided to give it a try.  I am very aware about how luxurious Deborah Lippmann nail products are, but I was quite skeptical about the concept of this product.

This on to go nail polish remover just slips onto your finger like a little mitt for your finger, and is suppose to remove polish from as many was 10 fingers.

After testing out this sample, I absolutely want to buy more of these to have on hand for traveling.  I had a pretty dark polish on my nails, and when I went to remove the polish with the Deborah Lippmann 'The Stripper to Go' Nail Lacquer Remover Finger Mitt, one single mitt removed the polish completely, and without staining, off of all 10 fingers.

The consistency and smell of the polish remove reminds me of the Zoya polish remover.  It conditions my finger nails while removing the polish entirely, not drying or irritating at all.  Definitely a new love of mine.



Check out the STILA GIVEAWAY I am hosting: http://www.luuux.com/node/3455285?blog_id=31398



xoxo,

Eve

Lancome Juicy Tube in Bol Ole

One of the makeup products that I always make sure to have in my handbag are the Lancome Juicy tubes.  It’s the perfect product to have to quickly perk up your lip color without having to look in the mirror.

I have really been enjoying the Lancome Juicy Tube in the shade Bol Ole lately just because it's such a beautiful pop of cherry red on the lips with a hint of shimmers.  It really helps perk up my day and makes my lazy day looks feel less sad.

It’s an ultra shiny gloss that gives you that sheer bit of color on your lips that isn’t too overwhelming, making it very natural and wearable.  The formula is not sticky at all and glides on so smoothly.  To make it even better, the applicator is easy for on the go use and the it’s so compact that it’s fits into your clutch or pocket undetectably.

Definitely can’t go without one of these with me throughout the day, because you never know when you’ll need to spice up your lips.

Check out the STILA GIVEAWAY I am hosting: http://www.luuux.com/node/3455285?blog_id=31398

xoxo,

Eve

Zoya Jules

I picked up Zoya Jules in December, and I have been obsessed with it ever since then.  I am always about the nudes and naturals, however for the colder seasons and just recently I can't get enough of the glittery or metallic/foiled looking polishes.

Zoya is one of the first nail polish brands in the beauty industry to remove toxic chemicals, such as toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP, from it's formula.  They really work on promoting safe and healthy long wearing polishes with their formula.

“The unique molecular structure of Zoya bonds with the nail to prevent lifting.  At the same time the polish remains flexible, ending with the nail to prevent chipping.  When used with our exclusive Color Lock System, Zoya's superior formulation allows for incredible long wear.” - Leo Reyzis (VP for marketing for Art of Beauty).

Jules is a beautiful gold polish with a foiled looking finish.  The polish is shimmery/glittery looking, however it does not have chunky glitters, they are more refined and smooth.  The polish just looked beautiful on my skin tone and I can wear it with any outfit for any occasion.  Although you need about two coats for a full, opaque coverage, it's well worth it ad just applies so easily.

Check out the STILA GIVEAWAY I am hosting: http://www.luuux.com/node/3455285?blog_id=31398

xoxo,

Eve

Lancome Blush Subtil in Cedar Rose

I have really been into building up my blush collection in the past year, and one of my favorite brands of blushes is Lancome.  You can always count on Lancome to make luxurious and beautiful blushes that can compliment any skin tone.

The Lancome Blush Subtil blushers are very silky smooth and applies just effortlessly with an amazing pigmentation and finish.  The color is true to color and the wear of the blush is beautiful and long lasting.  Their blushes are not overly shimmery or shiny, making it perfect for any age range and season.  The formula fo the Blush Subtil blushes are moisture enriched, making them very comfortable for the skin, and the ingredients are ideal for any skin type, being oil free.

Blushes can be a bit scary to someone that just isn't use to a bit of color on their face, or just wants more of a neutral, natural look.  So when I saw the Lancome Blush Subtil in the shade Cedar Rose I knew that I had to have it in my collection and that a lot of other people would really enjoy this shade in their collection.  It's a gorgeous natural brown with hints of a slight rose that is very subtil, but still looks gorgeous on the skin.  When I swatched Lancome's Cedar Rose, I was reminded of Tarte's Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed (which is one of my absolute favorite blushes).  It's very natural and can work as a blush or a slight contour color.

Check out the STILA GIVEAWAY I am hosting: http://www.luuux.com/node/3455285?blog_id=31398

xoxo,

Eve