Victoria Secret Bikini

Summer is here, and what better way to spend it than spending the day at the beach with your friends and family.  I was never really a beach goer when I was younger, but now I really enjoy the sun, water, and sand.  Also, laying out and getting a healthy dose of Vitamin D is always a plus.

I was generously gifted with a new bikini from a friend this past weekend, and it definitely got me excited for Summer (and my trip to Las Vegas next week).  To go with the hot pink trend, she purchased me this bikini from Victoria Secret.

The top is the Maldives Twist Front Demi Triangle Top, from the Victoria Secret Very Sexy swimwear line.  It gives the girls a bit of a lift and a nice amount of support without feeling uncomfortable.  I love the center found twist detail because it gives it that special touch without looking to overwhelming.  The molded padding and the underwire also gives anyone looking for that added support a good lift.  I love the gold detailing on the bottoms and the closure of the top because it does tie the look altogether.  The overall look of both the top and bottom together is definitely sexy, but isn't as revealing as a regular string bikini.

I am so excited to get to wear this to Las Vegas, and I know the color will definitely bring that extra pop!


xoxo,

Eve

ANNOUNCEMENT: BH Cosmetics Winner!!!

My BH Cosmetics 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 ......


Amanda Estela!

You can check out her blog here: http://www.luuux.com/members/amandaaloves

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.  The giveaway for June will be announced in about a week, so look out for that!


xoxo,

Eve

MAC Eye Shadow in Diamond Dove

I don't have an immense amount of MAC shadows, because I own so many palettes already, but when I see a shade that I really like and can't get my mind off of I can't help but add it to my kit.  I picked this MAC shadow up a few months ago (I know, this post is so late!) in one of their Iris Apfel and I am really enjoying it.

Diamond Dove is a beautiful is a darker, cool brown with a bit of grey undertones in a matte finish (and we all know I can't get enough of my mattes).  It gives a nice color, but being a matte finish, the texture is a bit dry compared to the texture of their other shadows.  Apply with a nice primer and the color should apply well; the swatch is applied WITHOUT primer.

I love how versatile this color can be because it is a cooler brown.  I can apply this lightly all over the lid, and because it is a matte finish it is very wearable.  Or I can use this in the crease to create that softer smokey, sexy look.

I am definitely debating about creating my own MAC palette, trust me it is very tempting.  I do want to own my own MAC palette, but because I am not dying for it and there are so many other brands I want to try (such as Inglot), I think I am going to hold off for now and just buy the ones that I really, really love that I know are going to be discontinued.


xoxo,

Eve

Nordstrom Aviators

More sunglasses! Haha all of you must think I am obsessed with sunglasses by now (which I can't deny) seeing how I have already made two posts on sunglasses.  However those were posts on higher end sunglasses, so this post will be less damaging on your wallet.

After spending Memorial Day weekend at the beach with all of my friends, I realized how paranoid I was of damaging my higher end sunglasses in the sand and water.  I would not put them down and did not feel comfortable leaving them in my back (fearing someone would step on them).

A friend had told me that he got his cheaper aviators from Nordstrom, and because they looked so great on him I decided to go over there and give them a try.  I picked up these two aviators from the Men's section at Nordstrom for $10 each! Aviators are unisex sunglasses, and I feel like they look great on both men and women, so it doesn't matter what section I get them from.

I picked up two pairs (because I couldn't help myself),  one in a gold shade and one in a silver.  The silver frames have lens that are reflectors, so it's pretty cool.

For being only $10, these have a nigh weight to them and feel extremely durable.  I think they will survive my visits to the beach very well.



xoxo,

Eve

Chanel Sublimage Essential Regenerating Fluid

Chanel is notorious for having luxury skin care products, and the Sublimage skin care line can live up that that reputation.  A few months ago, my mom and I attended a Chanel event and she had purchased me this high priced Sublimage Essential Regenerating Fluid as a gift (which was incredibly generous of her). I don't have major skin care issues, but being Asian we do enjoy to take preventative measures for the sake of the future of our skin.

I can't describe the product better than the professionals, so here's what the Sublimage Essential Regenerating Fluid is all about:

"The ultimate in anti-aging luxury, now formulated for those who want to experience its age-defying benefits, but do not prefer creams. With its smooth, weightless, chiffon-like feel and subtle mattifying effect, this potent fluid formula is powered by Planifolia PFA, a precious, natural anti-aging ingredient derived from a unique botanical fruit found in the farthest reaches of Madagascar, and purified by CHANEL Research. And like the cream formulas of SUBLIMAGE, this chiffon-light fluid acts with unparalleled power and precision on different targets in the skin simultaneously. With complete proven effectiveness against signs of age, SUBLIMAGE Essential Regenerating Fluid pinpoints density (wrinkles and loss of firmness), evenness of complexion, radiance, and moisture. Skin is revitalized, regenerated, radiant." - Chanel.com

This product was recommended to me not for anti-aging purposes (but it is a perk), but for evening the skin tone.  I do have a few dark spots and wanted to find a product that would help even out my complexion.  Do not mistake this product as a skin lightener, because it definitely is not.  However it does regenerate the skin, which is why it does make the skin look and feel more radiant.  The texture of the product is incredibly light and applies so smoothly to the skin.  When applied, I can feel my skin absorbing it immediately, leaving no trace of tackiness or shine.  It definitely leaves my skin feeling smooth and soft, which is a nice way to start your morning.

Like most Chanel products, there is a noticeable scent to the product.  The scent does not bother me because it is not too strong, and does fade away (it does not cause any breakouts for me either).  However, I do recommend that you ask for a sample or test it in stores before purchasing.

I am enjoying this product, and after a few months of testing it, I do find the results great.  My skin seems to be loving it and it has found a permanent place in my daily day time skin care routine (as always a little goes a long way).  But because the price is incredibly high, I do think that there are other alternative (serums and concentrates) out on the market that are much more affordable (i.e. Lancome's Vissionaire and Genefique).  The packaging of Sublimage is very luxe and you are paying for the brand.


xoxo,

Eve

Dr. Brandt Ruby Laser Technology Kit

I have been testing a few well known skin care lines lately, trying to find the right products to keep my skin feeling healthy, and one of the brands on my list is Dr. Brandt.  Dr. Brandt skin care products can be found at Sephora, and the brand well known for having having end skin care products.

I picked up this Dr. Brandt Ruby Laser Technology Kit a couple of months ago during the Sephora Friends & Family sale (making it a little more affordable) and decided to give it a try.  This GLOW kit is formulated to keep a flawless and "glowing" complexion.

I was drawn to this kit because of the ingredients, retinol and ruby crystals.  Retinol, a less active derivative of Tretinoin, creates a smooth complexion for the skin.  Tretinoin improves texture, tightens pores, and stimulates blood flow and collagen production, so a milder derivative (like retinol) just gives a slower process.

The micronized ruby crystals, I am assuming, is for illuminating and brightening the skin.

The kit contains the following items:

- Overnight resurfacing Serum
- Ruby Crystal Retinol Hydracreme

Both of the products are used for my night time skin care routine only.

"Retinol encourages skin cell turnover; this new skin is delicate and should not be exposed to the sun. That is why these ingredients should only be found in products intended for night use." WebMD.com

After cleansing my skin I apply the Ruby Crystal Retinol Hydracreme daily.  As for the Overnight Resurfacing Serum, it is only recommended for use 3 times per week.

My main goal is to keep my skin's texture smooth and radiant.  I also wanted a product that will help minimize the look of enlarged pores.  After using these two products, in conjunction with Chanel's Sublimage, I can noticeable see a difference in my skin.  No product can really give immediate results, so after testing for a couple of months, I do notice that my skin is smoother, and there are no visible breakouts where I would normally breakout.  You can not get rid of pores, but I can see a difference in the appearance of them.  The products seem to have tightened my skin, minimizing the appearance of the pores, giving me a smoother complexion.

Although I am not a fan of all of Dr Brandt's products (especially not a fan of the Pores No More line), I am really pleased with these two products and do recommend them to anyone looking for great skin care products.

**When looking for new skin care products, really research the ingredients and think about what you're seeking for.  Always refer to a dermatologist for questions if you feel like you need recommendations.


xoxo,

Eve

MARC By Marc Jacobs Square Metal Frame Sunglasses

When it comes to sunglasses, I feel like I can never have enough (especially when you find a great pair for a steal!).  During the summer, one of the most popular accessories to rock are sunglasses.  They not only work as a protective shield for your eyes on those warm sunny days, but they really style up your look and bring out your personality.

I got these MARC by arc Jacobs Square Frames (retailed at $130) on Ideeli.com for over 60% off, and I am in love with them (who doesn't love a good pair of MARC By Marc Jacobs?).  THe quality is so amazing, and I don't have a pair this shape so it was a great find for me.

They are 100% UV protected and are a brown tint, which I find is the shade that works best on me.  I love that it's a more subdued design.  There are logo accents on the lens, but it's not overwhelming.  They are defined as oversized sunglasses, but because the frames are metal and delicate, they are not too big for my face, and don't make me look silly.

I absolutely love these and love that they included an amazing case with it for traveling.  WHen you're investing on a good pair of sunglasses, you want to make sure to keep them in good shape so they last.

Sunglasses come in so many shapes, styles, and colors, and like shoes, I just want to have a full collection of great quality sunglasses!


xoxo,

Eve

Butter London Primrose Hill Picnic

I have been loving the hot/neon pink trends for this season.  I usually am not a fan of pink, but for some reason I am very attracted to the bold pinks.

This week I decided to wear the Butter London polish in Primrose Hill Picnic, and it doesn't get any more bold than this. I love the color of the polish and it was creamy and easy to apply.  However, I do have to admit that for the price of Butter London polishes, I am not a fan of how easily they chip.  I love the base and top coats from them, but their colored polishes chip far too easily (when compared to OPI and Essie).

Also, although I do love this color, I feel like the it will work much better on my toes than my fingers.  So I will definitely be rocking this on my toes this weekend.


xoxo,

Eve

Sam Edelman for AEO T-Strap Sandals

A little while ago, I came across Juicerocksss ♥'s post on her purchase of Sam Edelman sandals at American Eagle and just had to check out the collection.  Sam Edelman collaborated with American Eagle and created a more affordable line of sandals to sell.  What's even better about this line is that the quality of the sandals for American Eagle are just as fantastic as the ones in the Sam Edelman permanent line.

Because American Eagle was having a Buy 1 Get One 50% Off sale, I decided to pick up two pairs.  These are the Same Edelman T-Strap Sandals, in Gold and Black.

They are made of faux leather and are designed with a beaded T-stap look.  With an adjustable strap, they fit true to size and the padded insoles make them extremely comfortable to wear.  They also have a rubber outsole, which is always a nice feature.

I absolutely love wearing these around, and can honestly wear them all day without any issues.

Check Out Juicerocksss ♥'s page here for more incredible posts: http://www.luuux.com/members/ExquisiteJM


xoxo,

Eve

BCBGeneration Double Buckle Waist Belt

For me, one of the most essential accessories to have during the Summer season are skinny belts.  A belt is everything a girl needs to bring a whole look together, making it very polished and pulled together.

I am slowly hunting for the perfect skinny belts, and I was so happy to add this one to my growing collection of belts.  This is the BCBGeneration Double Buckle Waist Belt in the shade Mustard.  I absolutely have been obsessed with yellow lately, so I was so excited to get this on sale.

It's just a simple skinny belt that will work with a lot of looks for the summer season.  You can honestly find skinny belts almost anywhere in any color and for any price.  Wrap one just around your waist for any look that needs to show more shape, and you'll be ready to go.


xoxo,

Eve

May MyGlam Bag

I received my May MyGlam Bag a little over a week ago, and I guess it's finally time to share what I had received and my thoughts on this month's bag.

I received the following items:

- Philosophy Love Sweet Love Fragrance Sample
- Studio GEar Complete Color Lipstick
- Miss BEauty Nail Bling
- MyGlam Concealer Brush & Defining Eyeliner Brush

I love that they included a full sized lipstick from Studio Gear, which already makes the bag well worth it this month.  Although I won't find myself using any of the other products other than the lipstick or brushes, I do thing this month's bag was a great deal.


xoxo,

Eve

OPI Mermaids Tears

I have been really lazy when it comes to painting my nails lately.  However, with the weather warming up I have found some motivation and inspiration to do them more often.

One of the shades that I have been in love with for the the month of May is OPI's Mermaids Tears.  It's a sea foam blueish green that I find absolutely beautiful for the Summer.  I love that it's a very creamy sea foam color because it gives the perfect op of color without being too much.  I actually do not have any shades like this in my nail collection, so this one was a great pick for me.

The formula of the shade is extremely impressive.  The color is very creamy and is not runny at all.  It does not apply streaky and is opaque in a little over a coat.  I always apply my polishes (opaque or not) with at least 2 coats of polish for a more even application.


xoxo,

Eve

Henri Bendel Simple Stack Bangles

Stacking bracelets have been a huge trend for 2012, and it's not ending anytime soon.  Nothing makes a statement better than a stack of bracelets on your arms.  What's great about stacking bracelets is that you have the option of mix & matching all sorts of styles, colors, textures, and materials to really make it your own style.

I have really been into bangles lately, and wanted to invest in a pair of chic, luxurious bangles that I can wear to more special events.  So what better place to visit than Henri Bendel? When I laid my eyes on these simple stacked bangles I couldn't take them off my mind.  I actually left the store to convince myself not to purchase them, but then turned back at the end of the day because it was driving me crazy that they were not mine.

They are rhodium plated brass bangles with Swarovski crystals and cubic zirconia stones all around them.  I love the mixture of crystals and stones on the bangles, because when you look at the 3 bangles in person, they all look different from each other.

I am absolutely in love with this set and honestly can't stop looking at it.  What I love most about it is that it's not a huge size, so I don't have to worry about them slipping off my wrists.



xoxo,

Eve

David Kahn Jeans

It is official, David Kahn Jeans are now my all time favorite jeans.  I have never really used the terms "jeans" and "comfortable" in the same sentence before, but with David Kahn jeans that has all changed.

I was given a pair of David Kahn jeans recently from a wonderful friend, and it is the Nikki Low Rise Straight Leg jean in a medium wash with light whiskering.  I love these jeans and actually don't own too many medium washed jeans, so I am glad to add these to my wardrobe.

Yes David Kahn jeans are incredibly expensive, averaging at about $190 per pair, but there are ways of getting your hands on David Kahn jeans without breaking the bank.  Stores such as Nordstrom Rack, Ross, and TJ Maxx carry higher end jeans for discounted prices.  Although stock may be limited, if you search you may find a diamond in the rocks.  Also, Hautelook.com is notorious for having David Kahn sales, so keep your eyes peeled and you may score a great deal.


xoxo,

Eve

Express Multi-Pattern Infinity Scarf

This season, spring and summer scarfs have really made a statement in the fashion world.  You can find all sorts of lightweight scarfs in so many different patterns and styles in any store you walk in.  At first I was not drawn to the lightweight scarf because I am very picky withe types of patterns, so finding the perfect one for the right price took a while.

I found this multi-pattern infinity scarf at express and I fell in love with it.  It's perfect for the spring and summer season, with the florals and butterflies, and isn't too overwhelming with the print.  I love the mix of neutrals with the colors, making it easier to pair with outfits.

Perfect to make any casual outfit pop for those cooler summer days and nights.


xoxo,

Eve

May Birchbox

I have not been looking forward to receiving my Birchboxes the last few months, because they have not been too excited.  However, when I received my box today I was instantly excited.  It seems like the theme for this month's box is Gossip Girl, and Gossip Girl is one of the most inspirational for everything beauty and fashion.

The box contains the following items:

- BVLGARI Omnia Crystalline Eau de Toilette spray
- Dr. Jart+ Waterfuse BB Cream
- Ojon Volumizing Conditioner
- Stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
- Twistand Hair Tie
- XOXO Notecard

I am excited to try all of the products, espcially the BB Cream and the Eye Liner, since I have heard a lot of great things about them.

Definitely impressed and happy with this month.

Chanel Luminous Bronzing Powder

After going to the Chanel event at my local Nordstroms, and having the make up artist try some of the new Summer 2012 products on me, I decided to pick up the Limited Edition Summer 2012 Luminous Bronzing Powder in 907 Sable Beige.

"This unique powder formula lends subtle hints of warmth and shimmer to every complexion.  It is comprised of seven unique shades - including a luminous gold - which can be applied separately to highlight and sculpt facial contours or blended together to achieve an overall bronzing effect that replicates the natural glow of sunbathed skin" - Chanel.com

I picked this product up not to use as a contour, because as you can see from the swatch it is quite light.  However, this looks beautiful as luminous powder, bringing that special glow to the face without looking like you have added color.

It works similarly to the Guerlain Meteorites, where I would use a large powder brush and apply it where the sun would hit my face naturally (cheeks, temples, and nose).  It looks incredibly natural and just gives that added something to my look.  The formula is also incredibly soft and silky and just blends like a dream.  Definitely going to love this all summer!

I am also in love with the chic packaging.  Who doesn't love Chanel packaging? It's compact and convenient, making it practical for travel, and the brush is extremely soft and actually useful.

Yes this is expensive and it was a splurge (a gift from my mom), it is definitely going to last me many summers and will be well loved.



xoxo,

Eve

BH Cosmetics Eyeshadow Pro Giveaway!!!!! (CLOSED)

Another month, another giveaway! What better way to welcome May by giving away some beautiful eyeshadows from BH Cosmetics.

I know these aren't high end shadows like MAC shadows, but these BH eyeshadows are amazing and do the job well.  I picked up two of the 15 Color Palettes and filled them with 30 Eyeshadow Pro shadows.  The palettes are extremely compact and are of made impeccable quality (being very durable and sturdy).  And because I am obsessed with neutrals, all of the shadows are wearable neutrals.  One palette consists of all matte shadows and the other palette is filled with satin/shimmery shadows.  These two palettes put together is everything a girl will need to create an unlimited amount of looks for day or night.

This is just a Thank You for your support and a way for me to give back to all of you.

Now on to the details of the giveaway ...

RULES:

1. Must be a follower of mine here on Blogspot (you can follow me by clicking on the follow button on the top left hand side).

2. Must be a follower and friend of mine on Luuux.com (My Luuux Page)

3. Must leave ONE comment on THIS POST answering the following question: If you can travel to one place in the world, where would it be?

4. Must re-post this on either your blog, luuux, tumblr, etc. (LEAVE THE LINK TO YOUR RE-POST IN THE COMMENTS ALONG WITH YOUR ANSWER).

5. Must be 18 or older (or have your parents permission to provide me your mailing address).

This giveaway is open to BOTH International and U.S./Canada residents and will last until the end of the month (ENDING ON MONDAY MAY 28th). 

Good Luck!!!

FTC: This is not a sponsored giveaway.  I am not getting paid or receiving anything for hosting this giveaway, and everything was purchased with my own money.

xoxo,

Eve