Saturday, June 30, 2012

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Thursday, June 28, 2012

Ultra Light NuBra


One of my biggest wardrobe necessity for the summer are adhesive bras.  I know a lot of people feel like adhesive bras are the most uncomfortable bras to wear, especially on hot summer days, but because I have been really into the backless look, this is a must have for me.  I have tried a variety of adhesive bras, and was about to give up on them until I tried the Ultra Light Nubra (which can be found int he lingerie section at Nordstrom).





I honestly cannot stan the silicone adhesive bras because they feel very heavy and do not hold well.  The Ultra Light NuBra is the best, and most affordable adhesive bra I have ever tried.  It's a smooth, cling free fabric cover, which makes it look very natural, and lightweight.  It is designed to be worn up to 50 times, and the adhesive hold incredibly well.

My ultimate test for the NuBra was when I went to Las Vegas.  All of my tops and dresses were backless, so this was going to be my go to bra.  I wore it all day int he heat walking around on the strip while sightseeing, and then all night partying with the girls, and the NuBra did not budge or slip at all.  It was incredibly warm in Vegas, so I was worried the adhesive would not hold, but it did an incredible job of keeping my girls up and comfortable.

Adhesive bras are especially handy when it comes to weddings and proms, or for any occasion for a daring dress.  The NuBra is a top competitor when it comes to adhesive bras, and I believe is much better (and more affordable) than the highly expensive Victoria Secret adhesive bras.

So with the help of my NuBra, I can rock those sexy Summer dresses with confidence.

xoxo,

Eve

Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. Bag

For a little over a year now I have been obsessed with crossbody/shoulder bags, and the Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. has been on my wish list for the longest time now.  It's definitely one of the higher end bags that I couldn't get myself to purchase because of the high price tag that comes along with it.  However, after receiving a very generous gift card to Nordstrom, I decided to splurge it on the this Almond colored Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. and am absolutely in love!




The Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. is the perfect sized crossbody, shoulder bag for any occasion.  It's oversized clip and chain detailing gives it that edgy style that is balanced with a chic leather.  There is a top zip closure, keeping your most valuables safe, and an exterior pocket underneath a clipped flap.  I love that it is also designed with protective metal feel, which is rare in smaller bags.  The leather is extremely soft and the color is beautiful.  I chose the Almond colored bag because it's honestly a beautiful all year round color.  It also has sold out very quickly in the past, and because I figured I can pick up a black one any time, I ought to go with a more limited shade before it sells out.

I absolutely love the Mini M.A.C. for every day and traveling.  It's compact without getting in the way of every day errands, but it also big enough to hold all of your necessities while you are traveling.  I feel like I can put an endless amount of things in there.  The bag also hangs at the perfect length on me, which is rare since I am so short and usually have to adjust straps on longer shoulder bags, and I love that you can manipulate the chain to make it into a shorter shoulder bag.



And like all of the other higher end bags, the Mini M.A.C. comes with a complimentary, and fun printed, handbag cover which helps keep the leather safe while in storage.

I've probably just started a Rebeccas Minkoff obsession and already know what's going to be on my Birthday/Christmas list for the next years to come.


xoxo,

Eve

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Essie Over The Top

I have been really lazy when it comes to keeping up with my manicure lately.  Summer has been keeping me busy, and I honestly rather spend the time outside with friends rather than painting my nails and waiting for them to dry.  However, because I do love my polishes, I try to polish them up at least once a month, and this month I have been enjoying Essie's Over The Top.




I know it's not a conventional Summer color like all of those bright neon polishes, but I am loving the dark polish with shimmers.  It has very nice flexes of colors making the darker polish look light the midnight sky, making it very chic on shorter nails.

xoxo,

Eve

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Aldo Herena Nude Wedges

Wedding season is here and I thought that it would be best to pick up a nice pair of comfortable, nude wedges for all of the wedding, baby, bridal, and everything else parties that I have planned for the Summer.  Wedges are the perfect go to shoes for the Summer season because they can really dress up a look (depending on the style), but still give you the stability while giving you the extra height you want.




I thought these nude Herena wedges from Aldo were going to be perfect for those special occasion get togethers that I have planned all Summer long because they are a patent leather, making thema  bit more dressy, and they were extremely cute.  They are a bit high of a heel, with an added platform for comfort, but I am pretty short, so this makes me the perfect height (and they make my legs look amazing!).

Although they do have a rubber sole, you will need a slip grip for the bottom of the shoes just for added comfort and security when walking on slick floors.  They are the perfect shoes for any dress and honestly have been loving them!

xoxo,

Eve

Henri Bendel Girls Night Out Wristlet

One of my biggest weaknesses when it comes to shopping now is walking around the mall and seeing the notorious brown and white stripes of the Henri Bendel store calling my name.  I always have to walk in the place and take a look at their selection, even if I don't plan on buying something.  However, for the month of June, I was on the hunt for the perfect black wristlet for Las Vegas, and I knew Henri Bendel was going to be the right place to look.






After walking around the store multiple times and talking to all of the sales associates (which were too nice and not pressuring me to buy anything at all), I came across this black wristlet, the Girls Night Out wristlet, and I knew it was going to be the perfect one for Las Vegas, and all those other fun nights out with the girls.  

The bag is named so appropriately because it is honestly the perfect size and style for a night out in the city with the girls.  It has an embossed leather design, giving the wristlet a nice texture, and the chain strap really glams up the design of the wristlet.  There is an interior zip pocket for extra storage and has a magnetic button for closure.  I am also in love with the pop of hot pink on the lining!  The wristlet is the perfect size to fit a small card/ID holder, cell phone, camera, and lipstick/lip gloss.  Everything you need for a fun night out.

At first I felt bad for splurging on a wristlet like this, but I did have a discount card so I thought that made it a little better.  Also, everyone in Las Vegas was stopping me and asking me where I got it from, so it really made me feel like a made the right decision on the purchase.  Definitely no regrets here and am looking forward to taking this out more often.

xoxo,

Eve

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream

After spending a few months revamping my skin care routine and really working on getting my skin in the best condition, I realized that I have been ignoring my under eye area when it comes to keeping to healthy.  Although I am still young and don't have to worry much about fine lines and wrinkles, and I really don't have bad puffiness or darkness, I realized that prevention is key when it comes to skin care. Eventually, problems will start to arise and I want to work on preventing my under eye area from looking drab.





I mainly was looking for an under eye cream that would be very moisturizing and keep my skin under the eyes smooth.  After a lot of thought, research, and recommendations, I decided to pick up the Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream, which is one of the more popular brands when it comes to skin care.  

The Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream is formulated to remove any signs of puffiness or presences of dark circles.  One of the main ingredients is caffeine, which is known for wakening up tired looking eyes.

I absolutely love the formula and texture of the Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream.  It is extremely moisturizing and light feeling, and dries up matte, not leaving my skin feeling tacky or heavy.  Because I am using the eye cream as more of a preventative measure, and not for a treatment (since I don't have many under eye problems), I can't really say it works on de-puffing or lightening up darker circles since I don't have those issues.  However, because so many of the people I know have recommended the Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream I can believe that it does work as a great treatment.


xoxo,

Eve

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

June Glam Bag



I received my Glam Bag for June at the beginning of the month and I am finally getting the chance to post about it now. June's Glam Bag is all about the fun night life for a glam girl, so think fresh, styled, and polished looks with all of the following products:

- Philosophy Oxygen Gel Cream Moisturizer
- NYX Round Lipstick
- Living Proof Styling Cream
- Marbella Eyeliner Pen
- Glittery Cosmetic Bag

I absolutely love that they included all different types of products for lips, hair, and skin because it really makes this bag versatile.  I love that they included the Living Proof Styling Cream because I have been wanting to try the Living Proof products for a while now and this is a great deluxe sample size.  The Marbella Eyeliner pen is also interesting to try out too because I have yet to find the perfect eyeliner pen for me.  So if this works out this is going to be my go to eyeliner pen to carry around in my purse for those nights out in the city.

The only thing I thought was not necessary was the cosmetic bag, which I was kind of disappointed with.  It just feels really cheap and left glitter everywhere.

xoxo,

Eve

June Birchbox

I received my June Birchbox at the beginning of the month, but because I was so busy with traveling and work I'm finally getting to review it now.  This month's box was all about traveling and being a jet setter, so it includes products that are great for long flights, or imported products from other places.




This month's box includes the following products:

- Comodynes Self Tanning Intensive Towelettes
- Eyeko Fat Eye Stick
- Likewise Facial Moisturizer
- The Balm Stainiac Lip & Cheek Stain
- Tili Travel Bag
- John Varvatos Mens Cologne Sample

I love that this month was all about traveling because I love convenient products to carry on with my on my trips or long plane rides that last.  I am really excited about the Eyeko Fat Eye Stick and The Balm Lip & Cheek Stain because they are products that apply very easily and quickly.  Now to test if they are long lasting.

It was also cute for them to include a TSA approved Tili bag for packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols on the plane.  It's the perfect, and approved, size for flying and fits all the necessities.

Now I'm ready for the rest of Summer!

xoxo,

Eve

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Sephora Deluxe Airless Travel Kit

I honestly only find myself flying during the Summer time, however I do go on a lot of road trips and have weekend getaways throughout the year, so I thought it was necessary for me find find the perfect refillable travel kit for that purpose.  I know you can find these refillable, TSA approved bottles at any drugstore, but I wanted something that looked and felt a little more luxe.  When I saw this Deluxe Airless Travel Kit at my local Sephora I could not take my eyes off of it and I thought that they were perfect for any weekend getaway, sleepover, or flight because they are TSA approved.






The kit comes with the following:

- Two 1.69oz airless pump tubes
- Two 1.01oz airless pump tubes
- 0.51oz airless pump tube
- Two 0.51oz jar
- Push stick for product filling
- Spatula for product filling
- Waterproof pre-printed labels
- Clear Cosmetic Bag

The set is extremely sleek and the airless pump tubes and jars help keep your products clean and fresh.  The refillable air tight tubes are very easy to refill and are perfect for your shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, toners, etc.  They are easy to rinse and clean after every use and they are built for travel because after a few trips with them already they have not leaked or cracked.

There were a few bad reviews online about the product saying that the airless pump tubes could not dispense thicker liquids, such as shampoos and conditioners.  However, there is a method of filling them up that will allow them to pump out the thicker liquids better.

**TIPS ON FILLING AIR TIGHT TUBES**
Take whichever size tube you would like to fill up with your shampoo and fill it all the way to the top with water first.  Then place the pump on the tube and pump out all of the water.  This is necessary because these air tight tubes use a little push lever on the bottom to push the product up (instead of a little hose like most squirt bottles).  So when you pump out all of the water, that lever reaches the top.  Then, with the lever still at the top, fill the tube with your shampoo (or whatever product you'd like), and you will see the lever start to fall tot he bottom as you are filling the tube up with your product again.  This makes sure that there are no air bubbles, which makes it easier for thicker liquids to be dispensed through the tube.

What I love even more is that the clear cosmetic bag is the perfect, TSA approved, travel bag to store all of your liquid, gel, and aerosol products.  It can be used over and over again, and the amount of liquid, gel, and aerosol products that you can squeeze into it for a flight is incredible!

Overall, these tubes do work and I am in love with them! They look so nice lined up on any vanity and really help keep my products organized (especially with the waterproof labels) while I am staying at different locations.


xoxo,


Eve

Monday, June 18, 2012

SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone

A little over 6 months ago, yes this review is long over due, Sephora was having a huge sale on all of their SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone products because they were no longer going to be carrying in their stores.  All of the SUPER skin care products were on sale for 50% off, which is an amazing price for Dr. Nicholas Perricone products.  Because of the promotion they were having, I thought that this would be the only chance I would have to try the Dr. Nicholas Perricone products for such amazing price.  So I decided to pick up these two skin care products to test out and maybe add to my daytime skin care routine.

I did look up reviews on both the products, and what helped the most was that one of the make up artists in my local Sephora that I know really well have tried these two and told me they were definitely worth trying.  So I picked up the following:




SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone Detox Elixir

The SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone Detox Elixir is formulated to detox the skin, refining the pores.  It's a great all day skin refresher to really get rid of all of those toxins in the are (which helps when you live in such an urban area).  One of the main ingredients of the Detox Elixir is watercress which works as a great skin purifier.  I using this every morning after I tone my face, for just that added step.  I would spray a bit onto a cotton swab an just sweep it all over my face for the refreshing feeling.  This product is especially great to have on hand when you are traveling.




SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone Moisturizing Activator

The SUPER By Dr. Nicholas Perricone Moisturizing Activator is another type of gentle exfoliator and toner that is great for the day because it doesn't leave your skin feeling stripped.  The liquid activator just preps the skin for the day, hydrating and smoothing out the surface.  What's even better is that it is formulated with Omega-3's which just helps lock in the moisture.  If I don't feel like using a cream moisturizer in the morning, I would just pump a few pumps of this Moisturizing Activator onto a cotton swab and sweep it all over my face.


What's amazing is that these two products do not leave my skin feeling greasy, oily, or slippery.  My skin absorbs both of the products really well and I am enjoying rotating them into my morning routine.

xoxo,


Eve

Pureology Super Smooth

When it comes to shampoo and conditioner, it's always nice to invest in one higher end brand to add to your hair care routine every so often.  I like to rotate the shampoo and conditioner brands that I use, changing it every few months, so that my hair doesn't get use to product so much and stops responding.  So a nice way to save on higher end hair products is to rotate it with your favorite drugstore brands.  That way, it makes the product last longer and you are still able to spoil your hair without breaking the bank too much.

One of the higher end brands that I hear a lot of great reviews about in the hair care industry is Pureology.  A lot of the higher end salons and stylists use Pureology products on their clients.  Although the Pureology systems do say that they are for serious color care, their products can also be used on untreated hair.




I have been using the Pureology Super Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner for a little while now, trying to keep my hair soft and hydrated.  The Super Smooth formulas works great at preventing frizzing and dryness, as it's main ingredients are camellia, sesame and shea butter.

The product comes out extremely thick and creamy, and a pea sized amount really lathers up (so a little goes a long way).  Although this product does leave my hair feeling smooth and soft, because of how creamy and thick the texture of the shampoo and conditioner are, I really have to be careful with the amount of product I apply (otherwise my hair will get weighed down).  I like to use this ever other day (or even every two days), and I like to leave the conditioner on for a bit longer because it works really well as a deep conditioner.

I would recommend this to anyone out their with thicker, unmanageable hair.  However, if you have finer hair, you can still use this and get great results, just be sure to control the amount of product with every use.


xoxo,

Eve

Saturday, June 16, 2012

J.R. Watkins Foot Repair Salve

Summer is all about open toed shoes and sandals, and because of this I always like to make sure my feet are protected and treated after being exposed to the sun and hot summer sand.  Wearing sandals is definitely my favorite pair of summer, but it does take a toll on your feet because they are more exposed.  Also, because it is warmer out, I do find myself walking around everywhere, which can cause dryness on your feet.




I usually just use plain old body moisturizer on my feet and find that it works pretty well with keeping the skin on my feet feeling soft and moisturized.  However, when I received a sample of this J.R. Watkins Foot Repair Salve in my Birchbox, I decided to give it a try and now I am absolutely in LOVE with it!

This J.R. Watkins Foot Repair Salve brings such relief to the skin on your feet, especially if you tend to get rough calluses (after a long night in heels).  The formula soothes and restores the smoothness and softness to your skin.  After a long day of walking around in my sandals, being in the hot sand on the beach, or just a long night in heels, this salve is a life saver for my feet.

I apply a generous amount of this salve on my heels and around my toes, then cover them up with socks to helpt he product absorb into the skin.  You can sleep with this on over night, but because I don't like to sleep with socks on I usually take it off after an hour or two has passed.  You can really feel the difference in the texture of your skin.

The salve is very lightweight and not sticky at all, so it's not uncomfortable to apply.  I especially am obsessed with the smell of it, which smells exactly like Andes Mint Chocolate Candies.  This is definitely going to be my go to product for my feet.



xoxo.

Eve

NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

My one and only go to eyeshadow primer has always been the Urban Decay Primer Potion (in the original formula).  I have always loved the primer potion because it would keep my eyeshadows put and did it's job well.  However, ever since I received a free sample of the NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base to try out, I feel like I have found my new love.





The NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is a very lightweight eyeshadow primer that is colorless, and leaves any cream or powder based eyeshadow in place all day long.  Because the formula of the NARS primer is a mineral based, it keeps oily lids under control, and gives shadows a firm hold on your lids for an all day, flawless look.

I honestly and in love with the NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base because of the lightweight and smooth formula.  Compared to the Urban Decay Primer Potion, the NARS eye primer feels less apparent on the lids and just applies effortlessly.  Also, between the two primers, I do feel that the NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base does give my shadows a longer wear with absolutely no creasing because of how matte it is and I do prefer the mineral based primers.

I do, however, do not like the packaging of the primer because it does make it harder to really get use of all of the product without having to de-pot the primer.  Usually a squeeze tube or a larger pot makes more sense.

I also did do the ultimate test in Las Vegas while I was there last week between the two eye primers, and I can say that the NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base got my vote!  And because of this, I really think I will be purchasing the full sized version (unless I can get more of these free samples) for the future.


xoxo,

Eve

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Urban Decay De-Slick Makeup Setting Spray


I have always counted on using face primers to help my makeup last.  However, after booking my flight to Las Vegas and hearing about how incredibly hot it gets there, I knew I needed to add another step to my makeup routine to really make my makeup stay put.  After a lot of research and recommendations from friends I decided to pick up the travel friendly size of the Urban Decay De-Slick Makeup Setting Spray.




The Urban Decay De-Slick Makeup Setting Spray is formulated to keep oily complexions under control and keep the skin feeling and looking matte all day long.  The very lightweight product controls any shine all day long.

I used my trip to Las Vegas as the ultimate test for the setting spray.  I was there for 3 days and am back now, and I can honestly say that I LOVE LOVE LOVE this product! The first day I spent 9 hours at the airport with a full face of makeup (I know, I know that's a bad idea) because I was going to land and meet up my friends as soon as I got to Vegas.  I ended my night at about 3am and when I looked at myself after a whole day of traveling and a full night of partying I was shocked.  My makeup looked fresh and and clean; there was no oil production and my pores were not feeling clogged at all.  I could not believe that after a full day of wearing a full face of makeup nothing had budged and I did not need to blot of apply extra powder.

The next few days I spent the days exploring Vegas, walking around outside on the strip in the intense heat and I can honestly say that I did not need to touch up for dinner that night at all.  My friends were so surprised and everybody wanted to borrow it for the weekend.

The tip with the setting spray is to apply BEFORE AND AFTER you have applied your makeup.  It really holds everything in place without feeling sticky or heavy.  Definitely enjoying this product and love that it comes in a convenient travel size.


xoxo,

Eve

Monday, June 11, 2012

Real Techniques Stippling Brush

I was never really a fan of using stippling brushes for applying my foundation, as a lot of other people like to do.  However, after researching about the Real Techniques stippling brushes (just by watching reviews, tutorials, and comparing it to the high end stippling brushes) I decided to pick one up to give it a try.




The Real Techniques Stippling Brush is a dual fiber brush that is used to create a natural, air brushed foundation application.  The brush is made with synthetic taklon bristles, making them perfect for liquid foundations  and the aluminum handle comes in a pink shade that is very light and easy to use and handle.




I honestly was surprised with how much I LOVE this brush for foundation application.  Compared to other stippling brushes, the bristles to the Real Techniques Stippling Brush has shorter, and more compact bristles, which allows you to still buff in the foundation.  I find other stippling brushes have longer brushes that just sweep the foundation over your face and leaving a lot of streaks (unless you work longer to buff it into the skin).  The Real Techniques Stippling Brush works so quickly at buffing the foundation into the skin, and is perfect for any type of foundation formula or consistency.  It leaves such a beautiful and natural finish to your skin.

I usually dot the foundation of my choice all over my face (usually one pumps worth) and then use the stippling brush to evenly buff it all around my face.  The brush allows for an even application without wasting too much product because of of the dual fibers.    And of course you can also use their stippling brushes for other uses such as applying highly pigmented blushes.

The unique packaging and design of the brush is also very eye catching and creative.  Even with the cute design and incredible softness of the bristles, the Real Techniques brushes are a great alternative for affordable brushes.

I am definitely planning on picking up a back up of this brush for future uses, especially since Ulta usually has a Buy One Get One 50% off on their products.


xoxo,

Eve

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Tarte Giveaway!!!! (CLOSED)

Hello June, Summer, and another Giveaway!!!!




I recently reviewed these two products on my blog, and because I loved them so much (and I love that they are a great deluxe sample) I picked up another (brand new and un-opened) set to give away!

These are great to have to travel with, carry around in your purse, and because I had such great feedback from them I thought these would make a great gift for someone to enjoy also.


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.  You can comment/ask anything you'd like.

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 SATURDAY, JUNE 30th). 


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

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Tarte Blush & Bronze On The Go


I have really been amazed by the quality of some of the Tarte products lately.  I usually find myself passing up on their products when I am at Sephora, but after testing out one or two of their products I find myself liking them more and more.




While checking out at Sephora, I always find myself searching through their travel section right by the register.  I usually can't help myself because I love being able to try out their mini products.  While I was there, I saw this Tarte Blush & Bronze On The Go set that I just had to have.  Who can turn down a blush and bronzer duo for just $15?

The set includes the following:




Tarte Park Avenue Princess Bronzer


Park Avenue Princess Bronzer is a mineral based bronzing powder that has a beautiful matte finish.  It also claims to be long wearing, making it perfect for the hot Summer days.




Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Dollface



Amazonian Clay Blush in Dollface is also a long wearing product, this is a solar baked, soft blush that is formulated with Amazonian clay for longer wear.  The finish is absolutely gorgeous, giving a satin look, and the color is a true pink, perfect for most skin tones.  They say this is a 12 hour blush, but I wouldn't go that far.  Although it is long wearing, 10 hours is the longest I have worn this blush for and do find the color stay great.

I am absolutely loving these two products, and for being a part of a travel pack, the size is very generous (it's more of a deluxe sample size).  These are going to be perfect for traveling, or just carrying around in my purse for a day to night transformation.


xoxo,

Eve