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FEATURED - Sunday, December 16th 2007

Chanel Inimitable: Possibly The Best Mascara

Chanel sets a new standard in mascara with a formula that does it all.   A sophisticated formula and unique brush design combine to lengthen, plump and curl, delivering lush, long-wearing color so precisely that each lash, even the finest, is perfectly defined and separated.

Who doesn't want long, full, volumputous lashes right?  Is there such a product that can really deliver such powerful results?  I honestly don't think there is any product out there that is a miracle worker, that would be way too easy!  But, we can get pretty darn close to that.  Chanel, leader in the fashion and beauty industry, has yet another phenonominal product. 

Drum Roll please ... Introuducing Steph's pick for the best mascara, Chanel Inimitable Multi-Dimensionnel mascara, retailing $27.50.  The price is a little steep for a mascara, but it is well worth it.  This is my absolute favorite.  I have personally tried them all: Dior Show, Dior Blackout, Benefit Bad Gal, Fiberwig, Kiss Me, Lancome Definicils, Bobbi Brown.  Hands down it beats them all out.  And we cannot expect any less from Chanel. 

Now, I'm going to tell you why I love this stuff so much.  Not, only does it lengthen, seperate, and volumize, it's so easy to wash off!  For all the contact wearers out there, you will absolutely love this product.  It doesn't clump or make your eyelashes feel stiff and brittle.   To add even more length and protection to your eyelashes use Clinque lash building primer before applying mascara.  Tip: if you have thin and short lashes, try applying Cetaphil Moisturizing Creme on your entire face focusing mainly on your eyes and lashes every night, you will see a noticeable difference.  Give it at least 2-3 for results.

My Second macara pick, for more of a friendlier budget,  Maybelline Great Lash.  This mascara has been used for many years in the beauty and fashion industry.

FEATURED - Tuesday, January 8th 2008

How To Thicken and Strengthen Your Eye Lashes

Are your eye lashes thin and brittle?  Try coating your eyes and lashes with Cetaphil Moisturizing Creme every night.  Give 3-4 weeks for best results, along with a good nights rest.

To prevent lashes from falling out use a good mascara like, Chanel Inimitable, that will not make your lashes stiff and brittle.  If you would like more protection try, Clinque lash building primer before applying mascara.  Avoid rubbing your eyes, it tends to pull and loosen the eye lashes and ultimately fall out.

I personally use Cetaphil moisturizing creme on my whole entire face every night.  Lately, I've been coating my eyes with this stuff, because winter dryness, and noticed a dramatic change not only in my eye lashes thickening, but, growing super fast.  Just be sure you don't get the creme in your eyes.  I made that mistake once.  OOOPS!  It burned a little, but, I just washed them out with water, and I was good as new.  The good news is, the creme is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, which won't break you out.

Saturday, February 2nd 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Upcoming Collection Dates

An MAC ADDICT Ultimate Resource for 2008 

Slimshine - 2/7/08 (Int'l March 2008) Permanate MAC Line
Don’t speak. Lips are in danger of all manner of delicious indiscretion. Seductive in colour, shine and staying power. Seven new Slimshine Lipstick shades and 13 bring-back shades invite colourful, ultra-glossy conversations. People will talk.  

Check out the review and photo swatches for MAC's Slimshines Collection.

Mineralize Foundation - (LE) The release date keeps changing
Making headlines with our lightest mineral infusion yet! This unique loose powder foundation brushes on to adhere smoothly to the skin. Provides a radiant natural matte finish with medium-buildable coverage, and SPF 15 for everyday sun protection.

Fafi - 2/14/08 (Int'l March 2008) (LE)
A trendy collection inspired by the French Graphic Artist, Fafi. 

Check out MAC's for Fafi product photos, review & swatches part 1 and review & swatches part 2. 

Strobe - 3/6/08 limited edition
This collection includes: Strobe Liquid, Strobe Cream, Strobe Lip Conditioner, and 4 different shades of Tinted Lip Conditioners.

Check out the review and photo swatches for MAC's Strobe collection.  

Viva Glam VI - 3/6/08
Introducing a Special Edition VG VI Lipglass and new spokesperson into our mix - Fergie! A radical spirit, Fergie burst onto pop culture as female lead in the Black Eyed Peas. She joins Eve and Dita von Teese in speaking out on behalf of VIVA GLAM VI.

Check out review and photo swatches for the new Viva Glam VI Lipglass. 

Beauty Powder Blush - 3/13/08 (Int'l April 2008) (LE)
A micronized powder blush with a subtle pearlize pigment, 8 new shades and 2 re-promoted makeup brushes.

Check out review, swatches and product photos for MAC's newest Beauty Powder Blush. 

Heatherette - 3/20/08 (Int'l April 2008) (LE)
24-Hour Party People know what time it is when N.Y.'s counter-culture couturiers create a paint-by-numbers world of drama with two glittering looks. Choose from Good Girl for day, Bad Girl for night...or be the superstar you are and flip it!

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for MAC's Heatherette Collection.

Euristocrats - 4/1/08 European Stores only 

Naked Paris - Sheer pink brown with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (lustre)

Rue D' Bois - Sheer mid tone pink with multi dimensional pearlized pigments (lustre)

Patisserie - Sheer creamy neutral pink (lustre)

Barcelona Red - Frosty deep coral (frost)

Costa Chic - Frosty light coral (frost) ***A LUST have for coral lovers***

Milan mode - Sheer deep pink with multi dimensional pearlized pigments (lustre)

Going Dutch - Frosty mid tone pink (frost)

Saint Germain - Pastel pink (amplified creme)

London Life - Sheer deep berry with multidimensional pearlized pigments (lustre)

Ramblas Red - Blue red (amplified creme)

Cockney - Sheer yellow red with multi dimensional pearlized pigments (lustre)

Neon Orange - Bright clean orange (Amplified Creme) (PRO Store)

Show Orchid - Vivid hot pink (Amplified Creme) (PRO Store)

Full Fuchsia - Bright clean warm pink (Amplified Creme) (PRO Store)

Fast Play - Medium neutral pink with plum-brown undertones (Amplified Creme) (Repromote)

Bombshell - Soft bright rosy-pink with golden shimmer (Frost) (Repromote)

Check out Specktra's fabulous swatches for this colorful lipstick collection.

Dress Camp - 4/17/08 (Int'l April 2008) extremely rare and "very limited"
Super hot Asia exclusive collection.  This collection will not be available at MAC stores only online.

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for Asia's Dress Camp.

Dazzleglass - 5/1/08 (Int'l May 2008) (LE)
Electro-pearl atoms blast their light as Lipglass gets the dazzle treatment. High-shine + large particle quartz and opal crystal captured in a great new formula with light-reflecting, crystalline iridescence. To be this dazzling: that's power!

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for MAC's new glitter lipgloss.

Naughty Nauticals - 5/1/08 (Int'l May 2008) (LE) 3-part release
Sailors, ahoy! In her fleet of pinks, corals, reds, and the deepest navy Nail Lacquer seen this side of Marseilles, she's uniformly chic, and cruising for romance. In style and desire, she's poised for perfection. Go overboard!  

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for this Naughty collection. 

Stowaways Quad - 5/1/08 Part of the Naughty Nauticals Collection and only available at Nordstrom.

Skinsheen - 5/1/08 (LE) (Int'l June 2008)
Legs...Bronzed to distraction. Seductive and cruise-worthy. A sprayable lightweight gel that unlike your fancy, never drifts. Brushes lightly and flawlessly over the skin. For the ultimate secret application and smoothest sheen, try the 179 Body Buffer Brush.     

Neo Sci-Fi - 5/29/08 (Int'l June 2008) (LE) 3-part release
Spinning glamour into another orbit: our magnetic field of hot fluorescents, modern buffs, beiges and flesh tones are destined to test the laws of your style gravity. With these supersonic shades and neon orange compacts, go shock the galaxy! 

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for the Neo Sci Fi Collection. 

Future Earth - 5/29/08 (Int'l June 2008) (LE)
Lava-licious! The power of Volcanic Ash brought into one dynamic all-black element, Volcanic Ash Exfoliator. Mineral-rich. Cleanses, exfoliates, makes skin look radiant. Its glowing compliment: new Prep + Prime Microfine Lip Refinisher.

Check out the reviews, swatches and product photos for the Volcanice Mask and Lippie.  

Solar Field - 5/29/08 (Int'l June 2008) (LE)
Alternate sun power. Glamour beams across the universe via new Solar Bits: free-formed clusters of rich pigment and pearl. Its full-volt complement: skin made provocatively golden through Bronzing Powder in Solar Riche and Refined Golden

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for the Solar Field Collection.  

Tendertones - 5/29/08 (Int'l June 2008) (LE)
Sexier on the lips than balm. Silkier than gloss. More protective than naked. A lipcolour that combines soft shine, easy glide, and double-smooth satin finish with an everyday sun protective formula. To treat your lips...Love 'em tender.

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for this cult lip balm.  Check out Loreal's HiP Jelly Balm - is an excellent alternative that's actually better than MAC.

Summer Trend Bags - 5/29/08 (Int'l June 2008) (LE)
Shine-blasted. Shockingly fluorescent. Our easygoing Softsac goes patently neon in three tote-along sizes: mini, small and medium. Utterly functional and fun. The best complement to the M·A·C Neo Sci-Fi collection. Available in three buzzed-up colours. 

Cool Heat - 6/12/08 (Int'l July 2008) (LE)
Some looks are too hot for summer to handle but not Cool Heat. Sweltering corals, chill-out blues, complemented by Turquatic and its warm new sister shade, Turquatic Heat, create this season's coolest - and steamiest - beauty paradox.

Check out the review, swatches and product photos for this energetic collection. 

New View - 7/08
Natural and Shimmer. The split personality of powder to sheerly and subtly perfect skin with dimensionality and mineralized starshine. These Mineralize Skinfinish duos are state-of-the-art simplicity, high-resolution finish. 

Sonic Chic - 7/08
Mineralize Blush to break the style barrier: Screamingly chic, but soft, sheer, lightweight. Enhance cheekbones, create planes and contours with the 181 Buffer Brush for flawless blending. The fastest route to perfection yet is Ultra-Sonic.

Check out the Review and Photo Swatches. 

Electroflash - 7/08
Mineralize Eye Shadow in nine new duos with unblinking courage, and convincing new combinations. Add Lipglass and Lipsticks with quantum physics energy, in companion colours and electro-lustres. Electricity is our most precious resource...everybody, electrified!

Check out the Review and Photo Swatches. 

Colour Forms - 7/18/08 (Int'l August 2008) (LE) Nordstrom Exclusive

Lustre Twins - 7/31
Nine new shades of Pro Longwear Lustre Lipcolour featuring an exclusive sheer pigment top coat, with three Nail Lacquers. Separate if you must, but these Lustre Twins shouldn't live without each other. Codependent couture colour and shine starts here! 

Starflash - 7/31
Hollywood's new Power Couple. Our 12 new limited-edition Starflash shadows, combined with Kohl Power Eye Pencil. Shades for a smooth, creamy, cushioned life. Provides the double-wattage impact that will take you to the new stylesphere!

Check out the photo swatches and review. 

Cult of Cherry - 8/21 The new forbidden fruit. Deep, dark, dramatic. Lips ripened with juicy cerises and intoxicating kirsches while eyes smoulder in luscious spiced chocolate. With its sense of way-to-go dark, this is how we separate the bitter from the sweet...Fall drama just got more delicious. 

Check out the photo swatches, review, lip looks using cult of cherry lipstick colors, nail polish swatches and my makeup haul.  

Overrich - 8/21 Fall for luscious. Eight pigments that keep you de-lovely and delicious as ever. Oxidized, rich-metal hues are a cakewalk to apply, for eyes, face and all the sweet spots...These Overrich pigments satisfy an appetite for glamour.  

Check out the photo swatches, review and my makeup haul.

Suite Array - 9/25 Check-in to the double-delight luxury of our new Eye Shadow Suite. Eight shadow duos in unexpectedly fresh and frivolous colours paired with one of our new Pearlglide Eye Liners will provide you with all the accoutrements of day and night bedroom eyes.

Check out the review and photo swatches. 

Gold Fever - 9/25

MAC for Ungaro - 9/25 Dreamy, softly impressionistic, reverential...To celebrate his exciting debut, It-Designer, Esteban Cortazar, celebrity makeup artist, Sharon Dowsett, and M·A·C come together backstage to create a colour collection in the spirit of today's Ungaro.

Check out the review and photo swatches. 

Red She Said - 10/16 The retro-starlet allure of Hollywood glamour, with a modern twist. A season where lips connive, then confess in shades of provocative holiday reds. Party season and passions flare! "Red" She Said, and no one could resist her.

Check out the review and photo swatches.

Wednesday, February 6th 2008

OPI India Collection: Review and Swatches

OPI India Collection for Spring/Summer 2008 has officially launched today.  I had a chance to get a sneak peek at this collection, and pick up a couple of bottles.  First off, I really love India inspired collections.  This collection has a little bit to offer for any appetite.  Neutrals: Soft Grey and Opal colors.  Dark: A gorgeous blue that no-one should overlook, and a deep burgandy with red shimmer.  Metallics: Sheer Gold and Bronze perfect for summer. Brights: A beautiful fuschia magenta (pictured on model), Bright Pink .     

If you haven't been locked up and living as a hermit, then you know by now,, that blue is the "IT" color for Spring/Summer 2008.  Most nail collections this season have featured some kind of blue shade.  Chanel Blue Satin, is one of my personal favorite nail colors this season, but, something was just missing.  As much as I love Blue Satin, it's just too darn dark without putting a topcoat of Azur.  Don't get me wrong, I still love the color and will continue to wear it.  But, it was hyped up so much, that I already had high expectations and the vision in my head didn't match up with actual color.  Maybe if the formulation wasn't as thick, it would have an potential of being a 10.

 

Charmed by a Snake.  A bronzed color that is perfect for any anybody.  This is a great color and much approiate for warm and cool tones.  This is definitely tied with MoonSoon or Later as my second favorites.  "Bronzed" and "Goldened" are one of the color trends for this summer, which brings me to the next color.

 

Curry Up Don't Be Late.  A sheer gold color with yellow undertones. I think this color is more appealing to the warm tone crowd.  A Metallic Yellowish-Gold is a tricky color to pull off.  But, I'm really liking yellow this spring/summer.  If your feet get really tan in the summer, this is a must for pedi's!  Check out the OPI India Collection Promo Ad, featuring this color.  I'll be honest, I love this color but, it was really hard to paint my nails.  It's very sheer, and I certainly needed 3 heavy coats to cover completely.  But, it's defintely worth the hassle, the color payoff is a gorgeous metallic yellow-gold.

Lunch at Delhi.  Described as a soft coral shade with pink-undertones.  I honestly don't see the pink undertones in this one.  It defitnely has more reddish undertones which makes it dark coral color which is really pretty.  Coral is going to be an "IT" color this spring/summer 2008. 

I'm Ind-ia Mood for Love.  Described as a Fushia-Magenta color.  A Magenta Fushia creme color that is a must have for pedi's this summer!  Take a look at the model in the picture above.  She is wearing this color.  How cute would that be on your toes, white flip-flops, and a toe ring.

 

Yoga-Ta Get This Blue.  So true to the name.  Yoga-Ta Get this Blue!  What are you waiting for!  WOW!  This color is exactly what Chanel Blue Satin lacked and is amazing.  It is exactly the blue I have been looking for.  If you love the blue nail polish trend, well, this is going to be your holy grail color.  So, what makes this blue different from all the hundreds out there?  Well, OPI for one, secondly the beautiful aqua and blue shimmer that makes this perfect!  And, one more thing, it LOOKS blue! Unlike Blue Satin and many others, where it looks black-ish in different lighting.  Russian Navy fans, get ready, your going to love this color!  Same type of texture, instead of the purple-ish pink shimmers, it's aqua and blue.  This is my favorite color of this collection, and think it's going to be a HUGE hit.

 

MoonSoon or Later.  I absolutely LOVE this color!  Described as a bright reddish-organish color.  I think this is one of the colors that most people will overlook.  And, if you love orangey-red's, this defintely shouldn't be overlooked!  It's not as bright and orangey as you might think.  Described as a creamy tomato red.  At first, I honestly overlooked this color.  Two days later, I saw this color and messed with it a little bit, and ended up loving it and purchasing it.  If your attracted to reds as I am, you'll love this!  This color is my second favorite, right under the blue.  Coral and Oranges are going to be a Hot color this summer!

Moon over Mumbai.  Descirbed as a gray shade.  I was really hoping I would like this color.  I'm honestly seeing more pink in this shade.  I would describe it as a very light pink shimmer with gray undertones.  It is a very pretty shade, but, I was hoping for more gray.  Essie's, Body Language is by far the best gray color I have seen this spring.  This color is much like Essie's 2008 Spring Collection.

Keys to my Karma.  Described as a rich tomato red color.  Honestly, I see this color being more like a cherry red opposed to a rich tomato red, which I have plenty of similar colors.

Elphantastic Pink.  Described as a bold carnation pink.  Much talk was going on about this color.  So, I was really looking forward to it.  But, I was quite disappionted.  My skin tone is warm and this color stands out like a sore thumb.  It's just too bright for me.  This color may look more appealing on cooler skin tones.

Here are some other colors I didn't get, but, would be more appealing for me in the fall.  Spring and Summer is almost here so, I'm ready for some colors.  Royal Rajah Ruby, a burgandy with reddish shimmer.  If the shimmer were light pink, this would be an huge it color.  This is more of a burgandy-blackish color.  Black Cherry Chutney, a dark black cherry red.  

Below are some photo swatches I took from my salon.  

The first picture was taken with a flash, the second without a flash. 

Overall, I really liked this collection.  Yoga-ta get this Blue!  Go get this stuff now!  That was the best color hands down.  Followed by Curry up Don't Be Late, Charmed by a Snake, and MoonerSooner or Later.  

What do you think of this collection?  Are you planning to purchase any colors?

Check out the ultimate summer accessory featuring two colors from the OPI India Collection.

FEATURED - Friday, February 15th 2008

Chanel: 2008 Summer Collection Color Story

The destination of choice this season?  An extoic local, where very little comes between you and a beautiful bronze.  Chanel captures the feel of adventure - and the stunning sun effect - of the summer safari.  An exclusive colour collection, including sun-swept tan, golden bronze, pink bronze, and shades of khaki, delivers the must alluring getaway looks.

Chanel 2008 Summer Collection Color Story

FACE

Soleil Tan De Chanel.  Moisturizing Bronzing Powder.  Colors: Desert Corail, Terre Epice, Terre Ambre, Desert Bronze, Sable Dor*.  Price $48.00.

Bronze Uninersel De Chanel.  Sun Illuminator.  One color.  $45.00 USD.

EYES 

Ombre Essentielle.  Soft Touch Eyeshadow.  Colors: Tigre* (Bronze), Nomade* (Pink Rose), Khaki** (Khaki Green), Safari** (Stone Brown).  Price $27.50

Lumieres Facettes.  Iridescent Eye Effects.  Oasis*.  Colors included in quad: Khaki, Bronze, Coral and Pink Shimmer.  Price $55.00. 

Ombre Deu.  Fluid Irisdescent Eyeshadow.  Color: Atoll* (Gold Sand).  Price $30.00

Stylo Yeux Waterproof.  Long Lasting Eyeliner.  Vert Bronze* (Green Bronze), and Espresso** (Dark Brown).  Price $26.50.

 Inimitable Waterproof.  Mascara Multi-deminsionel.  Color: Emeraude* (Jade Green).  Price $27.50.

LIPS

Rouge Hydrabase.  Creme Lipstick.  Colors; Leopard* (Golden Coral), and Rose Flamingo* (Flamingo Pink).  Price $26.00

Rouge Allure.  Luminous Satin Lip Color.  Naive (Pink Nude), and Curious* (Nude Brown).  Price $30.00.

Aqualumiere.  Sheer Color Lipshine SPF 15.  Colors: Zanzibar* (Soft Peach), and Mauritius* (Bronzed Coral).  Price $26.00.

Levres Scintillantes.  Glossimer.  Colors: Gazelle** (Praline Pink), Pinup** (Frosted Golden Peach), and Seashell** (Soft Shimmering Pink).  Price $30.00.

NAILS

 Le Vernis.  Nail Colour.  Colors: Antilope* (Frosted Golden Brown), Flamingo Pink* (Bright Pink).  Price $19.00.

* Represents Limited Edition Colors

** Represents Repromotes

A new fragrance will be introduced in the Fall of 2008.  It is described as a softer version of Chanel No. 5.  It will only be available in one size, 5oz spray bottle, retailing $125.00.  Stay tuned for more on this.  

There is a couple of items I'm really looking forward to in this collection.  Lumieres Facettes (limited edition), the colours are beautiful bronzed in this eyeshadow quad along with a gorgeous pink color.  Inimitable Emeraude, a jade green mascara and last but not least, the limited edition nail colours.  I can't wait to see Flamingo, a bright pink and the golden bronze.  I expect one of those if not both to be sold out colours.  There is alot of greens in this collection.  Do I see a Jade Green nail polish for the fall of 2008?  Oh, I hope so!  What nail colour would you like to see Chanel come out with for fall?

UPDATE: The new collection should arrive at Chanel counters end of March beginning of April.

Check out the reviews and photo swatches on the Chanel 2008 Makeup Collection.

Tuesday, February 26th 2008

MAC Cosmetics Fafi: Review and Swatches Part One

 

The question sill remains?  Does Fafi collection compare to Barbie loves MAC?  My opinion, absoultely yes!  Fafi and Barbie loves MAC has some similar colors.  I was really siked up about this collection until actual color swatches became available early online.  After seeing all the colors and swatches online, I wasn't as excited about this collection as orginally planned.  But, I wasn't knocking down this collection either.  MAC is well known for a reason, and that being the rare beautiful colors, quality, and overall texture.

Fafi previewed early at New York Fashion week, which gave many beauty bloggers the chance to preview and swatch this collection.  Also, some rather disappionting news came along with the preview that had bummed many MAC lovers out.  The fact that MAC would put "stickers" on their packaging.  I admit, it was rather disappointing news but, were not paying for the packaging after all, espically if you are a true beauty lover.  Please do not buy these items to sell on ebay for three times the price or even keep as a keepsake just to have it.  Fact of the matter is, I could care less about the stickers now.  To be honest with you, the stickers will last longer than the writing on the product.  On my "Sugar Trance" lipglass, the MAC writing on the bottle,  has completely rubbed off after only 3 appplications.  So, I wouldn't be too worried about the stickers.

I decided not to go to my MAC store on release day, because I knew it would be overwhelming.  I went the next morning, and I was really impressed by the colors.  They are gorgeous, not anything I had imagined in my head.  That's why it's important to physically play with the colors, and not go by the online swatches and photos.  Here are some of the products that I think are must have's, and are truely fabulous.  Lipstick: Fun n Sexy (sold out everywhere) and Strawbaby.  Eyeshadow: Quad #2, yes with all the funky colors.  Lipglass: Totally it, and Sugar Trance.  The beauty powders, these are truely the best out of the collection.  

Lipsticks.  The three colors that I purchased are: Hot n Sexy, Strawbaby, and Utterly Frivolous.  Hot n Sexy, is a very deceiving color.  It is somewhat sheerer than it looks, but, with two coats is a hot pink with a blue undertone that is absolutely gorgeous.  I wanted to pick up another tube, but this was completely sold out everywhere.  Strawbaby, is a gorgeous coral-peachish glaze, that looks amazing on.  I had to pick up another tube just because this is a color you could wear on a daily basis.  It is by far my favorite out of the lipsticks.  Utterly Frivolous, is a sheer pink creme that is very pretty, but, not a must.  High Top and Not so Innocent is pretty sheer for my taste.  Flash n Dash is a very bright and orange, and I felt like it was a little too orange and bright for my complexion.  Barbie Loves MAC, Rocking Chick and Fafi's Fun n Sexy is very similar in color, espically when Fun n Sexy is applied more than once.  The only real difference is the blue undertone in Fun n Sexy.

Lipglass.  The lipglasses I purchased are: Sugar Trance, Cult Fave, and Totally It.  Squeeze it was way too dark for me.  Sugar Trance, a beautiful light peach gloss that is gorgeous over Strawbaby lipstick.  This is my favorite out of the bunch.  Totally it, this is a must have for Fun n Sexy lipstick.  It certainly makes the color intense.  Cult Fave, is one I didn't pick up orginially but,  found myself liking this one the more and more I saw it.  It goes perfectly with Utterly Frivolous and Not so Innocent.  Squeeze it was just to dark for my complexion and too brown-ish.  If I had to pick one out of the bunch it would be very hard.  But, it would definitely be Sugar Trance.  It's such a pretty peachy nude shade.  I know I'll regret not picking up another one.  See the Comparison pictures below.

There is a couple of familiar colors in this collection and the Barbie loves MAC Collection.  Check out the comparison pictures below.

Sugar Trance is just a tad bit lighter than Barbie's Fashion Pack.  Fafi's Totally it, has a tiny bit less sparkles than Malibu Barbie does.  Malibu Barbie and Love Rules is almost identical in color.  The only true difference is Love Rules is a tad bit redder than Malibu Barbie, but, wouldn't be noticable to the eye.

Check out part two review and swatches.

FEATURED - Sunday, March 9th 2008

Free Stuff: Beauty Sample Giveaway

Stay tuned for the details on this giveaway.  In the meantine, check out all the sample details below.

1. Philosophy Inner Grace -  3 in 1 shampoo, bath, and shower gel .5 oz.  2.  Philosophy Inner Grace - 3 in 1 shampoo, bath, and shower gel .5 oz.  3. Fresh Sugar Lychee - Bath & Shower Gel .34 oz.  Body Lotion .34 oz.  4. Cargo Bronzer - Medium Color Bronzer.  5. Tarte Bronzer - Mineral Powder Bronzer.  6. Go Smile - Teeth Whitening, One Application.  7. Md skincare - Hydra-Pure Oil-Free Moisturize.  8. Fresh Sugar Lychee - Bath & Shower Gel .34 oz.  Body Lotion .34 oz.   9. Victoria's Secret Bare Bronze - Illuminating Face Tint .3 oz.  10. Victoria's Secret Spa -Whipped Body Cream .35 oz.  11. Kiehl's - Drawing Paste .17 oz.  12. Kiehl's - Ultra Facial Toner .17 oz.  13. Juicy Beauty - Cleansing Gez .07 oz and Oil-Free Moisturizer .07 oz  14.  Dr. Brandt - Microdermabrasion 2 ml.  15. Philosophy - When Hope is not enough spf 20 3ml  16. Caudalie - Night Infusion Creme 2ml.  17. Aquolina Chocolovers - Body Scrub Creme .5 oz.  18. DKNY - Red Delicious Fragrance .5 oz  19. Bliss - Body Butter 30 ml 20. Jonathon - Silky Dirt Creme .40 oz.  21. Smackers Glimmer Dust - Pink Prism "full size."  22. Guerlain - Aqua Allegoria .25 oz.  23. Duwop - Lip Venom .05 oz.  24. Anastasia Brow Gel - One Application.  25. (Lot of 9) fragrance samples. Incanto Shine, Chanel-Chance, Dior-Miss Dior Cherie, Hilary Duff-with Love, Armani Code, Hanae Mori, Stella-In Two Peony, and two unknown fragrances.  (sorry there is no labels, arggh). 

Tuesday, March 18th 2008

China Glaze Ecollection: Review and Swatches

Suprisingly, Unplugged was my favorite color of China Glaze Ecollection.  A beautiful brown rust color with red and gold shimmer making this color stunning.

Shower Together a bright turquoise blue color that is my second favorite out of the ecollection.  Many hollywood celebs have been sporting around this color.  This color is comparable to China Glazes popular, Aqua Baby.

Solar Power, a bright taxi cab color that represents the sun but, don't be afraid of this color!  Believe it or not, this color is going to be the "it" color geared towards summer.  Rescue Beauty Lounge also has a beautiful yellow color that I will be swatching soon.  I was really hesitant about this color at first, but, ended up like it.  Solar Power will look great on those pedi's.

 

Tree Hugger, a Granny Smith Apple shimmer color, that is perfect for spring.  I really like this color, it also reminds me of an sour apple blow pop.

Hybrid, a light brown shimmer that is very comparable to OPI Charmed by a snake.  This is a nice neutral color, that most will find appealing.

Recycle, a dark gray creme shade that's my first. Gray nail polishes are on the hot radar right now, so I think alot of us will really like this color. 

Overall, I really liked this collection and the fact that the colors are based around the envirnoment is and A+ in my book.  The fact is, our Environment is in Crisis and we need to be aware of this critical problem.  What have you done to change the envirnoment?

I laughed when my husband handed my 20 cloth re-usable bags at Walmart to replace the plastic ones.  But, the fact is, he is the one laughing at me.  If everyone just makes the littlest change, it could make the biggest difference.

I would love to hear if anyone has done anything different to save the envirnoment.

FEATURED - Thursday, May 14th 2009

Gray Nail Polish Comparisons: Swatches

 

Happy Thursday lovelies! Hope your having a wonderful afternoon or morning, wherever you are. It's another rainy day in the neighborhood and a perfect time for some gray nail polish comparisons.

Just a little over a year ago, this stormy color was scarce to find, and today - I'm happy to report we have a few great picks to choose from.

My Most Memorable Gray: Although there are many fabulous shades of gray, I have to my give props to one that broke my gray virginity, China Glaze's Recycle from the E-Collection.

Back in Spring 08', when the E-collection was originally released, I had a completely different view of Recycle. It's defintitely a shade you have to warm up to. And, now I love it. 

Some other favorites: Zoya Harley, Essie Body Language, LA Girls Flare Saharan Sand, RBL Concrete Jungle, MAC on the Prowl.

(C) Creme (S) Shimmer  Check em' out!

 

The Light Gray's (pictured above). Body Language and Saharan Sand are two of my favorites. It's a mix between gray, nude and white that looks really fabulous on. It's light, crisp and opaque.

The Medium Gray's. RBL's grays have just a pinch of stormy blue that makes them different from the others.  

The Dark Gray's. Have a wonderful day! What's everyone's favorite shade of gray?

FEATURED - Friday, March 21st 2008

Chanel Summer Collection: Reviews and Swatches

Overall, I was really impressed with their Summer Collection.  Chanel's last couple of collections really hasn't impressed me, so, I was pretty excited.  This collection can be for anyone.  They have all the season's "it" colors.  Peach, pink, bronze, and corals are this seasons it's colors and it think they hit the nail on the head. 

The thing I love about this collection, it's very suitable for "Green Eyes!"  I have light green eyes and olive complexion, and sometimes it hard to satisfy us, let's just say that.  These colors look amazing with green and hazel eyes.  Emeraude, gives a hint of color that's not too bold nor daring, and the Vert Bronze eyeliner, is very unique, like an olive green bronze liner.  Items I picked up: Oasis Quad, Nail Polishes, Gazelle Glossimer, Emeraude Mascara, Atoll eyeshadow fluid and Vert Bronze eye liner.  Gazelle, is by far a must have, it's simply gorgeous, and the color pay-off is great you don't even need a lipstick!

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Polish.  $19.00 USD.  Flamingo and Antilope are both limited edition colors for the Summer 2008 Makeup Collection.  Flamingo, described as a pink flamingo with gold shimmers, that makes this beautiful.  Antilope is a metallic light bronze sand color that is also gorgeous.  I think the most appealing color will be Antilope because it is a very neutral color.  Although, they are both gorgeous colors, and will sell out quicky, as most Chanel limited edition colors do.

The Flamingo and Antilope has been applied with two coats.  One thing I love about these polishes is you can contol the color completely.  They apply somewhat sheer, but, can be darkened nicely with an additonal coat.

I've been hearing alot about these two colors lately.  So, I wanted to show you guys the comparisons.  Delice and Antilope may seem similar, but, are completely different in their own way.  Delice, is a very clear-to-light beige sheer polish with lots of gold shimmer.  Antilope, is a semi-sheer, sand frosty color, that does not have any shimmer.  Although, it may be semi-sheer it applies much thicker than Delice.  It actually has good color, and can be thickened easily by additional coats.  I definitely prefer Antilope over Delice. 

Here are some additional swatches.  Stay tuned for more to come.

 

Chanel Levres Scinttillantes Glossimer.  $26.00 USD.  Gazelle, a new color this year, described as a prailine pink color with orangish undertone.  I know it's described as a prailine pink, but, I'm seeing more peach in this color, which makes this a very hot and unique color!  Repromotes: Pinup, described as a frosted golden peach color and Seashell, described as a soft shimmering bubblegum pink color.  To be honest with you, I loved every single color, even though two are repromotes.  I can't say enough good things about Chanel's Glossimer's.  They really are FAB!

 

Chanel Aqualumiere Lipshine.  $26.00 USD.  Mauritius, described as a bronzed coral color and Zanzibar, a soft peach color.

Chanel Rouge Allure Satin Lip Color.  $30.00 USD.  Naive, described as a sheer light pink color.  Curious, described as a sheer nude brown color 

Chanel Rouge Hydrabase Creme Lipstick.  $26.00 USD.  Rose Flamingo, described as a pretty pink flamingo color.  Leopard, described as a gold coral color.  Flamingo and Leopard both has awesome color payoff.  Both these colors are so calling my name, but, I just hate spending that much for lipstick!  Urggh! Check out some color combinations of the Lipstick and Glossimer's.

Here are some Lipstick and Glossimer combinations.  Again, the Rose Flamingo and Leopard are the definte stand out colors to me.  One thing I love about Rose Flamingo and Leopard, it just takes the right lip gloss and you can accomplish every color shown here.  Rose Flamingo with Seashell or any light pink gloss will create the Navie/Seashell look.  And, Leopard paired up with Pinup or any light peach lipgloss will create the Zanzibar/Gazelle look.

When creating lip combinations, I always think in terms of "good color pay-off", when choosing a lipstick color.  Because, after all, that is your prime base, so make it a good one.  And, if you have good color pay-off, all it takes is gloss to create any of look or color.  Mix your glosses with lipstick colors you normally wouldn't, I bet you'll be surpised in the color outcome!

 

Chanel Inimitable Waterproof Mascara. $27.50 USD.  Emeraude, described as a beautiful jade green color.  I messed around with the color today, and I do like it.  It's a Jade Green, but, isn't very noticable which is why I liked it.  Just a hint of color, that everyone can wear.  I espically loved it because it brought out my light green eyes.  This color would also look great with hazel eyes. 

Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner.  $26.50 USD.  Espresso, described as a dark brown choclate color.  Vert Bronze, described as a green-bronze eyeliner.  The stand out of the two eyeliners is  definitely Vert Bronze.  It's a very unique color eyeliner that I really liked.

 

Chanel Ombre Deu Fluid Irisdescent Eyeshadow.  $30.00 USD.  Atoll, described as a gold sand color.  This color is absolutely stunning.  It's a very pretty gold sand color that looks great alone or as an eyeshadow base!  Also, looks great paired with Vert Bronze eyeliner.  I really love Vert Bronze it's a very unique eye liner color!

FEATURED - Saturday, March 22nd 2008

Rescue Beauty Lounge: Steph's Spring Picks

Rescue Beauty Lounge features two of my favorite nail color picks for spring 2008!  What better way to celebrate spring with two eco-friendly colors.  I love rescue beauty lounge's formula and all the beautiful array of bold colors they offer.  The only drawback, they are $18.00 USD, just as much as Chanel or any name brand nail polish. But, it's defintely worth the money for the beautiful bold colors you wont find anywhere else!  These two shades I predict will be smoking hot colors for this Spring and Summer 2008.

Here's a little history if you are new to the Rescue Beauty Lounge name.  Several lab technicians quit their job before Ji was satisfied with the polish that would bare the Rescue name.  The result is a long-wearing polish created with resin and high molecular polymers to improve flexibility, durablitily and high shine.  What you won't find- harmful and drying Touluene, Formaldhyde or DBP. 

I know alot of ya'll probably think I'm crazy for picking these bold colors, that most of us won't even wear!  But, they are HOT colors and anyone, any-age can wear them!  Come on break out of that shell, I know your in there!  Be daring!  Next time you go get a pedicure, manicure, or even do your own nails, try someting daring!  Have fun, summer's almost here!  Whoohoo!

Recycle, described as a deep blackish emerald green creme that is about 97% identical to the coveted, Nars Zulu, that was sold-out instantly at Sephora.  I actually prefer Rescues's Recycle over Nars Zulu polsh.  This is probably my favorite color of 2008 so far.  The blue/green trend is right up my alley.

Yellow Fever, described as a bright lemon yellow creme color, that just brightens my day like the beautiful sun!  I just get happy looking at this beautiful yellow color.  Rihanna, has been seen sporting around this "trendy" yellow nail color.  Yellow is going to be an hot color this summer. Green Bay Packers fans these are must have colors for next football season!  These colors rock together, espically for those packers fans!

Check out some nail polish comparisons below.

China Glaze Solar Power, is more of a toned down mustard yellow color, with noticable shimmer.  This is a new color from China Glaze's ecollection, for spring 2008.

Rescue Beauty Lounge Yellow Fever, is more of a bright yellow color (like the sun) with hardly noticeable shimmers.  This is a new color from the Spring collection

My favorite is Yellow Fever.  It's a very bright and bold yellow color that looks great on darker skin tones.  I think yellow is going to be a harder color to pull off, for some.  But, I love bright bold colors, and I think anyone can pull it off, espically paired up with the right outfit.

China Glaze Tree Hugger, is described as a granny smith apple color with noticeable shimmer.  This is a new color from China Glaze' ecollection, for spring 2008.

Rescue Beauty Recycle, described as a emerald green creme polish.  This color is very similar to the infamous, Nars Zulu.

I love green, and I love both of these nail polishes.  Think Green for spring!  Going green is an continuing trend this season, and what better way to start off with eco-friendly nail colors!

Love Rescue Beauty Lounge?

Check out Ji Baek's new book, Rescue your nails or the new lavendar nail polish trend that's becoming the next it color for summer.

FEATURED - Sunday, March 23rd 2008

Make Up For Ever: Flash Color Review

What is it?  A Complete coverage, special effect cream color for your face, eyes, lips, and cheeks.

What does it do?  A must-have for any professional makeup artist, these thick creamy colors flawlessly cover the skin and can be easily shaded together to obtain a wide variety of effects, depending on the quantity applied. Use to create special effects with color like decorative designs on the face or body. They can also be used for face painting on children. Retail cost $17.00 USD.

I was first introduced to the Make Up For Ever brand last year, when I purchased a very sticky lip gloss, that I absolutely hated.  What do they always say about first impressions?  They mean everything!  Well, my first impression on this professional makeup brand, was not so good, and I never looked back until now!

I was at my local Sephora, and the beautiful stunning colors caught my eye immediately.  So, I decided to give them another chance!  And, boy was missing out.  Not, only did I discover how beautiful the Aqua Eyes eyeliner was, but, the Flash Color hit the jackpot.

Flash Color is a new product from the Make Up For Ever line, and is available at Sephora.  It can basically be used as anything!  Face, lips, eyes and cheeks!  It's so versatile, and you know me, I'm all about versatile beauty products.  The color pay-off is absolutely fabulous, and the fact they stay on forever, blows my mind away.  I'll give you an example of how powerful the staying power is.  I had to scrub and scrub to get the swatches off my arm.

Here are the colors that are available now at Sephora.

 

Just look at the color selection, it is amazing!  I'm all about color, so if you love color, this product is definitely for you.  As far as a eyeshadow creme base, this blows Urban Decay Primer Potion and MAC Paint Pots out of the water completely, as far as color creme bases.  Unfortunately, my Sephora didn't have all the colors that I could swatch, but, was able to come out with a few.  Check out the photo swatches below.

 

The colors I picked up are Coral 2, Gold 4 and Copper 19.  Sephora didn't have any other colors I wanted, thank goodness!  Because, I would of came outta there bankrupt, literally.  Coral 2 is a very beautiful color that most of us will find appealing.  Gold and Copper are the perfect colors for summer, espically if you love the gold and bronzed look.  I really wanted to get a green color but, these were flying off the shelves.

All in all, there is two lessons I've learned from my experience.  Lessons that you should follow throughout purchasing beauty products and in life generally speaking.  Firstly, don't judge "products or people" by their first impression, because you could be missing out big time.  I've sure you've heard the ole saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover", well listen to it!  It's not an old folks tale for nothing!   Secondly (not a lesson really), these are an amazing product and I can't wait to stock up on more colors!

FEATURED - Saturday, March 29th 2008

Chanel: Aqualumiere Collection Color Story

 

Effortless summer beauty starts with lips that look sheer and bright, CHANEL designs a winning colour-trifecta: vibrant transparent hues that brush on - and glide on - for a clearly brilliant finish plus the see-thru luminosity of an easy lining pencil.  The added beauty of this collection: All shades of gloss, lipsitck and liner are complimentary to deliver even more options for lips that look moist, ripe....delectable!

Aqualumiere Gloss.  A new High Shine Sheer Concentrate gloss.  A gel based, high shine formula that delivers a punch of color.  Available in 9 colors.  Retail cost $26.00 USD.  Check out the colors below.

BonBon (Beige Rose Sparkle) Vanilla* (Creme) Freeze (Caramel) Candy Glow (Abricot) Diamond Rose (Rose Sparkle) Ironic Tonic (Sparkle Plum) Party Red (Sheer Red) Glass Quartz (Prailine) Bubble Plum (Deep Plum)

 

Aqualumiere Lipshine.  New runway colors, same fabulous formula.  This high shine, sheer coverage, a CHANEL top seller, debuts four new limited edition shades.  Retail $26.00 USD.  Check out the colors below.

Stressa (Rose) Como (Beige) Majorca (Rose Silver) Palma (Abricot)

Antigua** (Peony Rose) Barbados** (Beige Pink) Java**  (Sparkle Plum) Samoa**(Copper Rose)

 

Le Crayon Gloss.  Sheer Lip Colouring Pencil.  The perfect partner for CHANEL sheer lipsticks: this easy gliding precise lining pencil sheer enough to wear with gloss or alone as all over colour.  Retail $25.00 USD.

Clementine (Coral) Fraise (Pink) Rose Honey (Nude Rose) Grenadine (Cherry Red)

*Represents U.S. shade only  **Represents Repromotes 

This collection should hit most Chanel counters within the first week of May. 

May I go ahead and put my order in pretty please?  Look at those glosses, OH my!  The first color that's calling out my name is Party Red (the sheer red lip gloss) followed by Candy Glow (peach apricot color), followed by the Como (beige) lipshine lipstick. 

PS: I did google this new Aqualumiere gloss and found one color available.  But, please be aware this hasn't been released by CHANEL or any CHANEL approved retailers.  So, make sure your ordering from an reliable source.

The Model in the Aqualumiere Promo Ad is wearing: Le Crayon Gloss in Clementine (coral), Aqualumiere lipshine lipstick in Como (beige) and Aqualumiere gloss is Candy Glow (abricot).

Check out the Review and Swatches for Chanels newest gloss.

FEATURED - Wednesday, May 21st 2008

Neo Sci Fi: Swatches, Review, and Product Photos

 

Overall, the Neo Sci Fi is everything I expected.  I think this collection offers a little bit for everyone.  Most shades are very wearable and neutral toned, which many of us will find appealing.  However, there is quite a bit of repromotes in this collection.  But, this may be a good thing, espically if you didn't have chance to grab these in previous collections.  If the color swatches didn't grab your attention, well be prepared, the packaging is sure to "wake" up your day!

It don't take a brain scientist to figure out summer collections are all about the traditional Sun Godess.  So, if you think your seeing deja vu here, you probably are!  The color shades range in Golds, Bronze, Peach, and Browns.  And, I think Sci Fi will be more popular with warmer skin tones.  I really had fun playing with all the colors and chatting it up with the MA's today.  Espically, about the nail polishes.

So, do you notice what's missing in this collection?  Pinks!  The fact that there's not many pink color shades in this collection really tickles my fancy.  I know, I know.... A girl cannot have enough pinks, right?  Well, Pink "RULEZ" in my makeup collection, so, this is definitely a move in the right direction.

Of course, I didn't leave the MAC store empty handed. Take a sneak peek at my haulin pictures.  Some items I picked up were: Sci Fi Delity, Astral, Pink Grapefruit, and Supreme.  For the complete run-down, check out my haul.

Check out all the photo swatches below.

 

Neo Sci Fi Lipsticks  Astral - A mid-tone warm brown lustre with red and gold pigments. The red pearlized pigments are barely noticeable, and the gold shimmer makes this really pretty. Sci Fi Delity - A burnt red frost with gold pigments. As soon as I swatched this, I knew this was love at first site.  It's a perfect color that isn't to bold that everyone can rock. Electro - A very very bright neon orange.  As much as I love to look at gawk at this color, I need to get back to reality.  Because, I know electo would just sit their all lonley with her other sisters.  She has tons of sisters! Pleasureseeker - A sheer creamy peach glaze.  I really wanted to love this color (it was on my haulin list), but, sadly, it was extremely sheer.  My lips are fairly pigmented, so, it took about 5 applications to get good color.  Sunsonic - A light beige gold frost.  So, before you go, uggh... This is suprisingly, a very gorgeous color when paired up MAC's lipglass.  I felt like I was in one of those "Got Milk" advetisments.  umm, yeah, it was basically like a white frosted ring around my lips.  I think ya'll can image what that resembled!  However, I topped off with supreme lipglass = an oh so dreamy choclate creation.

Electro....your so electrifying....

 

Lipglass Naked Space  - is a nude peach with gold shimmer.  Naked Space is fairly light but,  a nice color, espically if your into nude colored glosses. Soft & Slow - is a mid-tone creamy plum with gold shimmer.  A nice pink that has good color pay-off. Pink Grapefruit - is a "must have" beautiful orange with gold pearl.  The swatches do not lie, it's absolultey amazing.  I plan on picking up a back-up this week.  Supreme - a rich milk choclate bronze with white pearl.  This is another color that just popped out to me, it's so rich.  It's also my first brown lipglass purchase.

 

I'm hypnotized by Pink Grapefruit...

Eyeshadows Magenetic Fields - is a brown black with silver pearl.  The color is much more brownish than black.  It's a great darker brown, espically for crease lines. Evening Aura -  is a frosty golden peach velux pearl.  Evening Aura was one of my favorite eyeshadows.  A very beautiful peach golden color for a softer look. Femme Fi - A frosty golden creme pearl velux.  A great highlighting that has awesome color pay-off. Time & Space - A rich copper brown that is highly pigmented.  The color pay-off is beyond excellent.  Expensive Pink - a pink with gold duochrome.  Although this is a permanent color, it is stunning.  I've owned this color for quite sometime and is one of my all-time fav's.

I know there's been alot of confusion about Expensive Pink.  This is a MAC permanent color.  So, don't let the bright orange packaging throw you off.  It's only being promoted with the orange packaging through the Neo Sci Fi collection.  However, the black packaging is available in their regular stock.

Some more pics below....

Powder Blush X-Rocks - A shimmery dirty mauve with great color pay-off and pigmentation. Spaced Out - A shimmery peach with good color pay-off.

I have a fancy with powder blushes, so this was a must have for me.  Spaced Out wasn't as highly pigmented compared to X-Rocks.  But, I may be back to my MAC store to pick up X-Rocks because it was just as gorgeous.

Cremestick Lip Liner 80% - is a Deep cocoa brown Beurre - is a dirted plum Summerfruit - a pale coral

Nail polishes are my major weaknesses.  I literally own about every color in the rainbow.  So, these color were a no brainer for me.  Check out the Neo Sci Fi photo swatches. 

Nail Polish Metalist - A soft light sand shimmer.  I think more of us will flock to this color because it's the safe route.  I passed on this color because it was boring and not unique.  In fact, it reminds me alot of Chanel Antilope and Dior's new summer one.  Plasma Blu - is an bright turquoise shimmer.   This is a pretty bright turquoise that will look fab on toes. Neon 8 - is a coral orange shimmer.  Neon 8 is my favorite color out of the four colors.  The color isn't as bright as you think.  And, is a great orange shade. Phosphor - a bright taxi cab yellow frost.

Check out MAC's Solar Field Review, Swatches, and Product Photos.

FEATURED - Sunday, April 13th 2008

Product Review: Dior Sky Glow 5 Color Eyeshadow

Product: Dior 5 Couleurs in Sky Glow

Price: $54.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora

Recommend: Yes

A few weeks ago, I had a chance to learn alot about Dior Cosmetics.  One thing learned, Dior focuses highly on skin care.  And, I have to say they have alot of great skin care products.  But, I wasn't interested at the time.  I had my eyes set on one thing, the Sky Glow 5 Colour Eyeshadow Quint.  I've passed the Dior counter on a numerous occassions, and just couldn't resist this time.  The gorgeous teal blue color was just calling out my name.  And, if you're a reader of mine, you know I'm pretty obsessed when it comes blues.

It's not very often I find a Quint (he he it's so fun saying Quint) that is absolutely amazing!  And, of course, the pictures do not justify the beautiful colors.  So, I decided pulled out my husbands professional Nikon D200 to try to get a true-to-color close up photo.  Check out the eyeshadow colors below.

The colors include: teal/aqua blue (top left), bronze greyish-taupe (top right) this is an amazing color, white pearl (middle), gunmetal gray (bottom left), and silver (bottom right).  Sky glow, is becoming one of my all-time favorite eyeshadow combinations.  It may be on the pricey side but, when you break it down, it's $10.80/per color, which isn't bad.  The eyeshadow colors are gorgeous (not too shimmery), and when combined together, delivers a knock-out.  The colors lasted forever, just as long, as any MAC eyeshadow.

Check out some of my looks using all the colors from this Quad.

 

 

My mascara is the wonders of Diorshow Blackout and cetaphil creme.  Diorshow Black Out works miracles, espically if you have already have a good amount of eyelashes.

FEATURED - Saturday, June 28th 2008

Product Review: NYX Glitter Creme Pallet

My order from Cherry Culture finally came in and I'm star struck from the beauty of these new colors from NYX.  Glitter Cream Pallets are an multi-purpose gel based glitter in a combination of five colors.   Love giltter but hate the mess?  Well, these are the perfect glitter fix for your all your needs.

Glitter may not be practical for everyday use but, they sure are fun!  NYX Creme Palettes are great for an night out with the girls, a holiday occasion or just to spice your night.  Although, I don't wear glitter much, my collection is filled with jars of MAC glitter, eyeliners, and so fourth.  The image of sparkling diamonds being swept on my face is what draws me in.  And, who doesn't love to sparkle?!

Every since last year I've been eyeing these beauties.  But, ya know, it's glitter, it wasn't a first priority to me until I saw two new colors.  Bronze Godess and Ice Queen are two universal colors you can use for anything.  Since their multi-purpsose you can pretty much put them anywhere - face, body, eyes.  How fab is that!

Things I love: The Price - $4.00 for five colors! The gel base texture stays put forever and ever.  Almost too long, which makes it a little tough to take off.  But, I'm not complaining about something that stays on forever, come on?!  As long as you use good makeup remover or wipes your in good shape,  Glitter in a cream texture, a great idea - who would of thought?  I can't tell how much I dread dragging out my Benefit Shelaq or MAC mixing medium just to apply glitter.  In fact, this is one of the reasons I don't wear glitter and the mess, of course.  Multi-purpose so you dont have to worry about if it's eye safe, body safe, etc.

Things I dislike: I'm not complaining about the staying power but, I can see this being a problem for others espically, if your not familar with glitter.  Since, this is gel based you have to get it right the first time, usually.  Make sure glitter is the very last step in your makeup routine because if you make a mistake, it's not moving and you'll end up with glitter everywhere.  Completely re-doing your makeup would be a huge pain in the butt.  Check out the photo swatches below.

 

Overall, this is an fantastic deal for what you get and is available is six different color pallets.  After playing with the colors, I found the glitter is more versatile when using on your body or as a glitter eyeliner.  The only true disadvantage to these beauties is the aftermath.  Glitter is usually, welll, all over the place.  But, if you get it right the first time you should no problems because it certainly stays put.

FEATURED - Saturday, April 26th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Neo Sci Fi Color Story

MAC Cosmetics introduces Neo Sci Fi for Summer 2008.  This future earth collection is due to release May 29, 2008 and International June 2008.  Check out the promo pictures and color story below.

Lipsticks: $14.00 USD

• Sci-Fi-Delity - (Frost) Burnt red with golden pearl (LE)
• Pleasureseeker - (Glaze) Creamy peach colour (LE)
• Astral - (Lustre) Mid-tone brown with red pearl (LE)
• Electro - (Lustre) Brilliant orange (LE)
• Sunsonic - (Frost) Gold with white pearl (LE)

Lipglass: $14.00 USD

• Supreme - (Frost) Bronze brown with white pearl (LE)
• Naked Space - (Frost) Frosted creamy natural peach (LE)
• Pink Grapefruit - (Frost) Pink-orange with gold pearl (LE) (Repromote)
• Soft and Slow - (Cream) Pale beige with gold pearl (LE) (Repromote)

Cremestick Lip Liner $14.00 USD

• Beurre - Dirtied plum (Repromote)
• 80% - Deep, deep cocoa (Repromote)
• Summerfruit - Pale coral (Repromote)

Eye Shadows: $14.00 USD

• Magnetic Fields - (Lustre) (LE)
• Femme Fi - (Veluxe Pearl) (LE)
• Evening Aura - (Veluxe Pearl) (LE)
• Time and Space - (Frost) (LE)
• Expensive Pink - Pink with gold duochrome (Veluxe Pearl) (Repromote)

Sheertone Shimmer Blush: $17.50 USD

• Space Out
• X-Rocks

Mascara: $11.00 USD

• Plushblack - A mascara formulated to instantly plump up lashes for extreme voluptuous effect. Volumizing, lengthening, curling, lifting. (Repromote)

Nail Lacquers: $10.00 USD

• Metalist - (Frost) Copper with white pearl
• Plasma Blu - (Frost) Turquoise with white pearl
• Neon 8 - (Frost) Brilliant orange with orange pearl
• Phosphor - (Frost) Buzzing bright yellow

This collection has my name all over it!  Neo Sci Fi features more warmer colors in this collection.  I can't wait to see the actual colors in person.  I'm loving everything, including the hot trendy nail polish colors!  Get your haulin list ready for May 29, and your checkbook!

{Source: Specktra}

FEATURED - Thursday, May 15th 2008

Essie's Summer Collection: Bringin Color Back

Essie's seasonal fashion-forward nail polish collections are inspired by the runways of New York, Paris, Milan and London.  Essie introduces six hot shades that's bound to shake up your summer!

Risky Business - Glam Red meets Tangerine (tomato red color)  My Place or Yours - A sophisicated Pink Rose (light dusty rose) Guilty Pleasures - Pink Strawberry Bliss (pink strawberry) Movers and Shakers - Sassy Bold Pink (toned down hot pink) Secret Stash - Dramatic traffic-stopping fuschisa (hot fuschia pink) Escapades -  A Bright Coral red (cherry red)

I may be a little late but, have ya'll seen Essie's new summer collection?  The collection is based around the seasons hottest runway colors which include: reds, pinks, and oranges.  The consistency applied like a charm, and only two light coats are needed.  One fact I love about this new collection is the polishes are all cremes, and no sheer colors!  Yeah, it's about time!  Essie has been notorious for sheer polishes, so this collection really thrills me!  Essie's bringin color back baby!

While I'm still preparing all my photo swatches, check out some other fantastic swatches: Makeup and Beauty Blog and 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic.

FEATURED - Tuesday, May 6th 2008

May Giveaway: Nars Orgasm Lip Gloss

Sephora gave us a sneak peak at the limited edition nail polish, which officially debuts later in their summer collection.  So, I thought what better way to start off the season with the gorgeous lip gloss version!  Check out the details and rules of this giveaway below.

Details:

Full Size Nars Orgasm Lip Gloss (Brand New) 4 Chanel Sample Size Various Eye Cremes 0.08 oz ea.

How do I enter:

Simple!  Just post a comment as to what your favorite NARS lip gloss or your favorite in general (any brand, any color).  Anyone that has a email address can post a comment on Steph's Closet.  Please make sure email address is current for contacting reasons only!  Email addresses are NEVER displayed or given out at anytime.  Must be a U.S. or Canda mailing address Only one entry per person Winner will be announced May 20, 2008.

Two of my favorite NARS lip gloss colors are Orgasm and Turkish Delight.  I tend to pull out my Orgasm towards the spring and summer seasons, and Turkish Delight is just fab all around.  I really don't have a favorite that I use.  It really varies from season to season.  Currently some of my favorite lip glosses are Chanel Glossimer in Gazelle, Loreal Juicy Tubes (love all colors), Dior Coral Lame.

I have another giveaway in store for May, so stay tuned!

FEATURED - Friday, May 9th 2008

Trend Alert: Lavender Purple Nail Polish

Product: Purple Haze Nail Polish

Price: $18.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Rescue Beauty Lounge

Recommend: Yes

More love goes out to the fabulous Ji and the Rescue Beauty Lounge team!  I've had my eyes on Purple Haze since it was introduced in their Spring Collection.  But, never took that next step to purchasing it.  So, after months of debating, here it is. 

Purple lavender nail polish started to make an appearance in winter, hitting most nail polish collections in Spring of 2008.  Essie's Spring Collection, was one of the first lavender nail polishes that caught my eye.  Looking for love, described as a sheer lavender nail polish, was one of the firsts I've tried.  But, with much sadness, looking for love was extremely sheer, and the color pay-off just wasn't there.  At that point, it was a color that I just put on the back burner, until now!

Ji and the Rescue Beauty team have created another truely unique polishes with outstanding color pay-off!  I have nothing but good things to say about this color and the Rescue Beauty Lounge formula.  The color is described as a creme lavender with dark blue undertones.  The consistency applied like a charm and only two light coats are needed.  Purple Haze has everything that Essie's, looking for love, lacked.  And, you won't find a comparable polish to this color.  Actually, it's hard to find many lavender blue-based colors in stores period.  Check out the photo swatch on my toes below.

So, I have been sporting around this color for the past few days on both my hands and feet.  And, I to say, this color is amazing!  I usually don't wear matching colors unless the color is fab, and that is exactly what it is!  The navy blue undertones makes this color a periwinkle blue outside in sunlight, and a deeper lavender purple inside.

I predict that this color will be a hit through the summer and fall seasons.  Purple Haze will be an appropriate color in the fall to coordinate with your grays/blues/purples.  Chanel, OPI, and many others are introducing a lavendar based nail polish to their summer collections as well.  I think most of us will sway away from this color because of it's boldness.  If you love blue, your sure to love this color also.  Purple Haze espically looks great with darker skin tones; it tends to give you the perfect amout of pop on your nails or toes!  It also looks great with a tan or a sunless tan.

Let's talk about Rescue Beauty Lounge!  My first few impressions have been absolutely fantastic.  And, we all know first impressions are crucial!  It can usually make or break your business.  My RBL collection is consistency growing with bold and beautiful colors.  I'll usually wear any color, as long as it fits my style.

Future Colors.  I would love to see Ji and the team create an orange nail polish for summer.  Orange is rapidly becoming one of the next nail polish trends, and I know the Rescue Beauty Lounge color would be amazing!

FEATURED - Saturday, May 24th 2008

CVS Drugstore Haul: Revlon Summer Collection

Revlon Beyond Natural is a new makeup collection, which includes eight products that create a naturally glamorous look, and works with all skin tones. The collection for face, eye and lip includes a smoothing primer, a unique skin matching makeup, a concealer and highlighter in a single compact, a cream-to-powder eye shadow, a defining eye pencil, a defining mascara with a molded brush, a cream lipgloss and a protective liptint.

Revlon ColorStay Mineral Lipglaze is the first mineral lip gloss with longwearing ColorStay technology that lasts up to eight hours and is an extension of the Revlon ColorStay mineral face and eye collection launched in the first half of 2008.  So, I defintely wanted to put this to the test!

Drugstores should seriously have beware signs ya'll.  I just can't seem to stay away.  The ladies at CVS were just setting up the Revlon summer displays and I was really drawn into this collection mostly due to the name, Beyond Natural.  A summer collection based around the natural, no makeup look.  Beyond Natural consists of two different displays: Cool and Warmer color shades.  The cooler collection colors are mostly based around pinks and the warmer shades are browns, and peach shades.

 

Protective Liptint in Spice Epice 050.  The protective liptint was my favorite out of my CVS haul.  An moisturizing lip tint with SPF 15 + 6 different colors = Cha-ching!  Spice Epice is a gorgeous bronzey peach color that was featured in the promo ad.  I have been sporting around this lovely liptint for the last few days and I'm really loving it!  Revlon's liptint reminds me of alot MAC's strobe collection.  The color Spice Epice had excellent color pay-off!  I didn't try any of the pinks colors because they looked fairly sheer.

Creme Lipgloss.  Described as a creamy peach shade.  Lipgloss is a must have accessory for summer.  The texture was very smooth, moisturizing, and non-sticky.  The color pay-off and staying power was much better when used in conjuction with the protective liptint.

 

Creme to Shadow Quad.  I usually don't splurge on drugstore eyeshadows because MAC is the best.  However, the colors always seems to pull me in.  The natural brown shades in this quad automatically caught my attention.  But, if your looking for color pay-off, perhaps this isn't the product for you.  Revlon's really going for that natural look, and that is exactly what this collection delievers. A very natural, no-makeup look.  The texture was very smooth and easy to apply with your fingers.  I had no luck whatsoever with makeup brushes and was much easier with my fingers.  However, there was some creasing but, I caked on several layers which may have been a factor.  Clearly this creme to shadow isn't meant to be layered upon layer but, I wanted to put it to the test.  Overall, I liked this creme to shadow quad.  It's easy, quick and pefect for the beach or anywhere you want to look all nat-ur-al!

Colorstay Mineral Lipglaze in Natural Raisin. The claim: A Mineral Lipglaze that supposed to last up to 8 hours with Revlon's colorstay technology.  I haven't purchased a revlon colorstory lip product in lord knows how many years!  Probably when they first introduced the line.  The color pay-off was outstanding and the texture was a tad on the sticky side.  The staying power wasn't quite 8 hours, but did last for quite sometime.  The shine was still there after an hour, which is one of the things I really liked.

FEATURED - Tuesday, May 27th 2008

Vitamin E Oil: A Must Have Beauty Staple

Here are just a few defintion(s) of Vitamin E: A substance used in cancer prevention. A vitamin that helps protect cells in the body against damage. Vitamin E is commonly referred to as nature’s own healing agent. Found in vegetable oils, it is known for its emollient benefits to the skin, including helping to maintain skin elasticity.

Vitamin E is one of my beauty staples I've kept in my medicine cabinet for years now.  Any natural mineral or oil is bound to work wonders.  I use Vitamin E for everything.  It helps promote healing of scars, burns, blemishes and moisturzes those subborn fine lines around your eyes, mouth and throat.  Take a look at your Beauty cremes, moisturizers, and makeup ingredients. Vitamin E is in there!  So, it's a no-brainer that this would be ayone's beauty staple!

This is not your typical Vitamin E oil.  Fruit of the Earth delivers a massive 28,000 IU per ounce.  A maxium strength oil delivering maxium results.  The texture is extremely thick and sticky at 28,000 IU.  I would only recommend an high dose of IU for intense therapy areas and at night only.

Here are some of my tips:

Add a drop to your facial or body moisturizer for ultimate hydration. Scars: Promotes healing of scars: acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes. Add a dab to any scar or fine line at night . Don't forget your nails! Just like your face our nails need moisturized too. Massage vitamin E on your nails every night for a week or longer.  Within a week your nails and cuticles will be completely repaired. I'm in the process of this and I have to say my nails and cuticles are looking great.  Hair: Rub a small amount of vitamin E oil evenly distribued throughout your hair.  I would recommend a lesser IU amount because it is rather sticky. Vitamins: Take your vitamins daily! I always take a multi-vitamin, vitamin E, and vitamin C.  I'm a very finicky eater so, I need all the vitamins I can get.

The capabiliites are endless. Experiment around and see what it can do for you!

FEATURED - Sunday, June 1st 2008

Gold Member Baby: Chanel Fall 2008 Makeup

Chanel strikes it rich this Fall with jaw-dropping gold and bronze shades.  With the rising cost of gold, it's no wonder Chanel would be at the top of their game.  Facettes D'or nail color in gold fiction, delivers an massive 18 karats of illiminating gold right to your fingertips.  But, this gold rush nail candy don't come cheap.  This hyptonizing nail color will be retailing for $30.00. Chanel is also introducing Gold Fever, an finely milled golden powder that delivers a sheer glow of gold.  Gold Fever will be retailing for $50.00.  Two must-have products you don't want to over-look.  This new fall collection should hit most Chanel stores mid July. Check out the color story and info below.  

Lips

• Rouge Hydrabase Creme Lipstick.  Simply Pink (coral pink), Fantastic Plum (deep purple) and Great Copper (bronze). $26.00 USD. 
• Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Colour. Enthusiast (deep red creme). $30.00 USD.
• Aqualumière Sheer Colour Lipshine with SPF 15. Formentera (beigey rose) and Papeete (cranberry).
• Glossimer Lipgloss. Amberlight (bronze), Delight (lilac), and Gold Light, (shimmery gold). $26.00 USD.
• Precision Lip Definer.  Pretty Pink (medium nude pink). $28.00 USD.

 

Eyes

• Eye Shadow Quad in Reflets d’Ombre.  An eyeshadow palette with four shades in coffee, dark green, ivory, and gold. $55.00 USD.
• Soft Touch Eyeshadow.  Bronze, (metallic brown) on one side and Bois Bleu (dark teal) on the other. $27.50 USD.
• Silky Eyeshadow Duo. Cristal-Dusk contains two shadows in white and brown. $40.00 USD.
• Precision Eye Definer. Denim is a gray-blue shade. $27.50 USD.

Face

Powder Blush. Rose Dust is a pinky, plum shade. $42.00 USD. Soft Pressed Powder. Almond is a shimmery beige. $50.00 USD

Nails

Le Vernis in Kaléidoscope - is a greenish-gold shade Le Vernis in Fantastic - is a deep, plummy wine shade

The Chanel Fall Collection has arrived.  Check out the review, swatches, product photos and nail polish swatches for this brand new collection.

A little gold member for your viewing pleasures!

FEATURED - Monday, June 9th 2008

CVS Drugstore Haul: Sally Hansen, Cover Girl

Boy, is it hot here in the Southeastern region.  At 8 am it's already 90 degrees!  A simple visit to my local CVS pharmacy to pick up some shaving creme turned into a full-force makeup haul.  Those damn drugstores always get ya!  The display for Sally Hansens Lacquer Shine was rather empty.  These lovely summer shades were flying off the shelves by the minute.  The four colors I picked up: Flair, Flash, Spark and Glow.  Some other color shades that were sold out: coral, pink, and red.  Check out the photo swatches below.

Glow is described as an granny smith apple green shade with yellow-green shimmer.  Flair is an violet purple shade with navy blue shimmer.  Flair was my favorite color out of the four I picked up.  Flash is described as a turquoise blue color with turquoise blue shimmer.  Flash is very comparable to MAC's Plasma Blu.  The only difference I noticed is MAC's has more of a frosty texture.  Last but not least, Spark.  A navy blue with purple and pink shimmer.  This is the first color that even comes close to OPI Russian Navy.  Spark is almost an 100% duplicate.  The only true difference is OPI Russian Navy has more shimmer to it.  But, other than that, it's a great alternative.

This is the first time I've tried Sally Hansen's Lacquer Shine formula.  Although, I can't review the staying power until I actually wear the polish a few times.  The application was very smooth and easy to apply with vibrant color pay-off and dimmensional shine.  I used two coats on my photo swatches. I don't think there would be a need for three coats because the color pay-off is divine. 

I wanted to get some swatches up real fast for ya'll to see.  Later this week I will be posting swatches individually along with photo comparisions.

I've been debating these two eyeshadow colors for awhile now.  And, I finally picked them up today.   Check out the photo swatches below.

Covergirl Kaboom Kelly - described as a kelly green shade with fairly good color pay-off.  Covergirl Gold Sizzle - is a gold shimmer with not-so-good pigmentation.  I had to literally scrub with my finger to get good pigmentation.  And, last but not least, Milani Color Brillance eyeliner pencils.  Hands down, Milani has the BEST pencils out there with outstanding color pay-off.

FEATURED - Thursday, June 19th 2008

Dior Fall 2008 Makeup: Impression Cuir Collection

For Dior’s Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear collection, designer John Galliano imagined a refined sensuality accentuated by precious python and ostrich skins, fox fur, and crocodile skin patterns.  Now comes Dior’s most exotic color collection yet:  Impression Cuir, which channels the luxury of animal-inspired patterns and textures and features rich, romantic shades of burgundy, plum, and copper.

Color Story

Impression Cuir Eye palette ($55.00) pictured above

2-Colour Eyeshadow in Bronzy Look and Silver Look ($35.00)

DiorSkin Poudre Shimmer in Copper Diamond ($42.00)

DiorBlush in Pink Copper ($38.00)

5-Colour Eyeshadow in Earth Tones and Iridescent Leather ($54.00)

Crayon Eyeliner in Iridescent Khaki #363 ($25.00)

Creme de Gloss in Creamy Burgundy  and Delicious Plum ($25.50)

Rouge Dior in Western Beige, Pink Drama, Fantastic Plum, Fiction Brown ($27.00)

Ultra-Gloss Reflect in Lace Beige #587 and Lurex Plum #877 ($24.50)

Dior Contour in Mythical Brown #713 and Mysterious Plum #988 ($25.00)

Dior Vernis in Red Ebony and Mystic Violine (Sephora exclusive) ($19.00)

Dior 5 colour eyeshadow quint in Irisdescent Leather ($55.00).  Dior's 5 colour irisdescent quints are truely fabulous and contain the perfect color combinations.

Dior Le Vernis nail polish in Mystic Violine (the sephora exclusive) and Rouge lipstick in Fantastic Plum.  I presume this collection will be available sometime in August.

The Fall 08 makeup collection is in - check out the swatches and review. 

FEATURED - Monday, July 7th 2008

Essie Summer Neon Collection: Swatches

Essie introduces the neon collection for summer.  Four very vibrant and electrifiying shades that's sure to get you noticed a mile away!  Essie wasn't kidding when they named this collection Neons.  In fact, some of these shades are so bright they look fluorescent.

Shorty Pants - a bright yellow cream.  This was my favorite out of the collection because it wasn't nearly as bright as the others.  It's more of a toned down color espically compared to my other yellow polishes. 

Bermuda Shorts - A vibrant purple cream that is my second favorite.  A good pedicure color that would look great on toes.  Another color that is practical and not to bright.

Mini Shorts - A orange creme that is almost "turn off the lights too bright" along with Short Shorts - a definte fluorescent pink that was too electryfying for my skin tone.  Short Shorts was the brightest shade out of the four following Mini Shorts.

  

Two coats were applied with no problems drying to a matte finish.  A top coat is recommended if you want that shiny finish.  My swatch don't justify the brightness of Short Shorts making it impossible to get an accurate picture.  

I would love to compare this collection to Chanel's Robertson Blvd but, the only color that may come close is Shorty Pants.  The other colors are completey off and too bright to compare.

Overall, Shorty Shorts and Bermuda Shorts were two of my favorites out of the collection.  The other two shades seemed to clash with my skin tone which leaves me undecided.  But, I'm going to give them a fair shot.  The neons are fun and summery shades to sport around at the beach or pool.

Have a good monday ya'll!

FEATURED - Monday, July 14th 2008

Chanel Robertson Blvd Collection: It's Here

One good thing about living in Kentucky is my Chanel loot usually comes within one business day.  Although my swatches haven't been prepared yet, here are some of my haulin pics from the Robertson Blvd Collection.  Today, my toes are sporting the lovely LA Sunset, a glossy orange creme shade.  Check out some haulin' pictures below.

 

 

FEATURED - Monday, July 14th 2008

Pedicure of the Day: Chanel LA Sunset

The next couple weeks I'll be mixing it up with Pedicure of the Day posts.  I wanted to give my nails a break because the constant yellow stain is driving me nuts and summer colors are about the toes espically these four hot colors!  Not many beauty bloggers post POTD (pedicures of the day).  I'm assuming it's the same fear  - Aren't all feet ugly?!  At least that's how I feel.  Suprisingly, I do have serveral requests for POTD's. 

Chanel finally released the "Hello, like summer's over" Robertson Blvd Collection last week online.  I would love to rebel against them for draggin this out but, that isn't happenin.  The four shades are equally pretty in a sophisicated and classy way.  Very practical, everyday colors you can wear in the corporate atmosphere espically for summer.     

LA Sunset is described as an Melon orange glossy creme that applied flawlessly with two coats.  The price tag may be controversial setting you back 25 buckaroos but, take these factors into consideration: Chanel, Limited Edition, Exclusive to Chanel.com and Robertson store in LA only, and Created by new director, Peter Phillips.

Before the Robertson Collection was officially released online, Heidi or Elodie were two shades that looked familiar judging by the swatches online.  I pulled out all my possible dupes and no luck.  All these shades above were completely off making this a unique color in my collection.

FEATURED - Tuesday, July 15th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Cult of Cherry Collection

I've had the color information for months now.  It was one of those releases that just got lost in translation because their are so many upcoming MAC collections!  Check out the color and product information below.

Available at MAC stores August 21st

Eyeshadow Quad: Spiced Chocolate $36.00 USD (LE)

• Nanogold - Sheer yellow beige with pink pearl (Lustre) (Repromote from N Collection)
• Brash - Frosty reddish copper (Veluxe Pearl)
• Spiced Chocolate - Deep reddish brown (Matte)
• Sweet Chestnut - Frosted cranberry (Frost)

Eyeshadow Quad: Tempting Quad $36.00 USD (LE)

• Next to Nothing - Next to Nothing - Cream white with pink pearl (Frost) (Repromote from Smoke Signals)
• Sharp - Frosty bright yellow-green (Satin)
• Dark Edge - Dirty chocolate brown (Matte) (Repromote from N Collection) 
• Tempting - Sinfully rich coco (Lustre) (Repromote)

Eyeshadow Quad: Shadowy Lady Quad $36.00 USD (LE)

• Light Fall - Light Pink (Satin)
• Smudged Violet - Frosty blackened lavender with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost)
• Deep Truth - Dark blue (Frost) (Repromote)
• Shadowy Lady - Darkly veiled plum (Matte) (Repromote)

Lipsticks: $14.00 USD

• Creme Cerise - Sheer yellow taupe (Lustre) (LE)
• Lightly Ripe - Sheer mid-tone pink (Lustre) (LE)
• Russian Red - Intense bluish-red (Matte) (Repromote)
• O - Intense purplish-red with metallic golden shimmer (Frost) (Repromote)
• So Scarlet - Grape burgundy (Amplified Creme) (LE)

Lipglass: $14.00 USD

• Cherry Blossom - Sheer light pink with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Rich & Ripe - Mid-tone pinkish red with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Cult of Cherry - Red with red pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Liquor - Neutral brownish mauve with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost)(LE)
• Jampacked - Sheer grape with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)

Mattenes: $14.50 USD

• Rapturous - Deep berry red (LE) (Repromote from Mattene)
• Kirsch - Blackened cranberry (Mattene) (LE)
• Chock-ful - Blackened brown (Mattene) (LE)
• Bing - Blackened eggplant (Mattene) (LE)

Nail Lacquer: $11.00 USD

• Silverstruck - Frosted greyed taupe with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost)(LE)
• Illegal Purple - Creamy blackened eggplant (Cream) (LE).

Blush: $17.50 USD

• Plum du Bois - Frosted deep pink bronze with gold pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Blooming - Frosted deep peach (Frost) (LE).

Mascara: - $12.00 USD

• Zoomblack - Rich Black (Permanent)

The eyeshadow quads look amazing only if the colors weren't repromotes.  The Tempting quad has three repromotes (are you kidding me) along with a gorgeous new yellow shade that's in between Eyepopping and Going Bananas.  This kinda frustrates me knowing I have one, two and even three shades of each quad.

Check out the Cult of Cherry invitation for the launch party held on August 12th.  Craving cherries? take a peek at the photo swatches, review, lip looks using cult of cherry lipstick colors, nail polish swatches and my makeup haul.

{Source: Kiss and Makeup, Specktra}

FEATURED - Friday, July 18th 2008

Product Review: Urban Decay Deluxe Shadow

Product: Urban Decay Deluxe Shadows

Price: $18.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora, Urban Decay

Recommend: Yes

Turn your eyes into pieces of fine art with these vibrant, silky, and luscious to the touch, deluxe eyeshadows that feature couture-quality and cutting-edge color. Loaded with silky pigments, this sophisticated new formula provides the richest, most brilliant color imaginable. Truly intense and definitely incomparable,for the eyes.

Created with maximum staying power, Deluxe Eyeshadows offer long-lasting wear that won’t fade (especially when paired with our miraculous Eyeshadow Primer Potion). The result? Gorgeous, gem-like lids that are worthy of their own exhibit.

While the cheap artistic product casing may be too much - the true gem is awaiting inside.  A world of ridiculously vibrant, intense COLOR that applies velvety, creme like and blends like melted butter - your lids will be thanking you.  The staying power is amazing leaving no visible creases espically, when paired up with cult-fave, primer potion. 

Check out the swatches below.

Grafitti, a vibrant kelly green shimmer, is my first addition from the deluxe shadows.  Being a MAC girl, Urban Decay had some big shoes to fill and I'm very happy with the results.  All shades are shimmer based which, thrills me because I dread matte shadows.  Some may find them on the frosty side espically, if your not a fan of shimmers. 

You'll heart this if your looking for: Vibrant, bold, rich selection of Color Outstanding staying and lasting power with no creasing Velvety, smooth texture that blends perfectly

You'll dislike this if you: Don't care for vibrant bright colors  Don't fancy shimmers and prefer matte shadows are looking for a budget friendly selection

 

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 23rd 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Manish Arora Collection

MAC introduces a collection inspired by the Indian Designer, Manish Arora due to release on October 9th.  The Manish Collection features "must-have" gorgeous indian inspried casing combined with the bold pops of color.  Check out the color information below.

Manish Aurora is a exclusive limited collection much like Dress Camp (as far as sell-out's not collaborations) and will only be available at MAC Pro NY, MAC Pro North Robertson, MAC Soho, maccosmetics.com.

Eye Palette x 6 - $38.00 USD

• Nylon - Pale gold with icy metallic shimmer (Frost) (Permanent Shade)
• Going Bananas - Soft lemon yellow (Frost) (LE Repromote from C-Shock)
• Playful - Bright clean pink (satin) (LE - Repromote from Barbie Love MAC)
• Bitter - Vivid bright golden green flecked with shimmer (Velvet) (Permanent Shade)
• Electric Eel - Vivid bright blue flecked with shimmer (Satin) Permanent Shade)
• Deep Truth - Very real truthful dark blue (Frost) (Permanent Shade)

Lipsticks - $14.00 USD

• Girl About Town - Fabulous fuchsia (Amplified Creme) (Permanent)
• Kiss Manish - Frosty mid-tone burnt red (Frost) LE

Lipglass - $14.00 USD

• Pink Manish - Frosted fuchisa (Frost) LE
• Shine Manish - Frosty bright orange with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (frost) LE

Blush - $18.00 USD

• Devil - Bright iridescent coral orange (Satin) (Permanent Pro)
• Pink Swoon - Clearly pink (Sheertone) (Permanent)

Now, you guys know this is going to sell out extremely fast, right?  The disappiontment - most of the colors are all repromotes but, that's ok because the gorgeous jewel themed packaging certainly makes up for it.  Foremost, I'm thrilled about the re-release of the gorgeous going bananas in the Eye Palette and the two limited editon lip glasses.  Check out the promo pictures below.

FEATURED - Monday, July 28th 2008

Shu Uemura Fall 08: Instinct Collection

The Instinct Fall Mode collection is now available online at Shu Uemura. 

"Stimulate your instincts with shu uemura's Fall Mode Makeup Collection! Explore these layerable, sensual and iridescent shades of Fall to discover your own make-up expression! Staying true to shu uemura's heritage of innovative and conceptual design, each item is encased within palettes of silver, gold and black motifs, expressing the modernism and elegance of the collection's femininity".

Duo Eyeshadow ($38.00) in Mesmerizer - sumptous violets in creme and powder formula, Tantalizer - green and goldish bronze in creme in powder formulla, Mystifier - a green black and brown bronze.

Glow on Blush ($21.00) in Lust - a reddish pink with subtle pearl, Pulse - warm elegant pink with fine pearl and Steam - a sensual hightlight with platnium like glitters.

Rouge Unlimited Crystal Shine ($23.00) in Crimson Dazzle - a rich red and Brown Dazzle - a beige brown colors.

Luring Powder ($38.00) in Rose - a sensual pink shade that compliments all skin types.

Nail Enamel ($16.00) in Dark Wine - a dark wine shade with silver and gold glitter.  Must have shade for polish addicts.

FEATURED - Sunday, August 3rd 2008

Pedi of the Day: China Glaze for Audrey

 

Today's pedi of the day is the gorgeous China Glaze in For Audrey.  A minty green - turquoise blue creme that's inspired by Tiffany & Co colors.  The application applied flawlessly with two coats and no issues.  Melrose, from Chanel's Robertson Blvd collection, was next in line for my pedi but, I wanted something with a little more jazz - and this is it!  It's so fab, you guys!

The previous China Glaze collections have been rather blah.  I forgot how great the colors and application was until today.  Sexy Sport collection was a marketing campaign gone entirely wrong and Immaterial Girl was pretty but nothing unique.  I knew China Glaze had it in them and the new fall collection proves that.

First impression of Rodeo Diva - sexy, tough, chic independent women with western style.  I'm beyond estatic about this collection.  Actually, I'm beyond because the dark vampy colors for fall are right up my alley.  We're going to be seeing some great collections for Fall.  Ahh - nail polish haven.

Hope everyone's having a fabulous weekend.  I'm heading to the pool tomorrow with the girls and my Sept issue of Glamour.  Why is it that we have to flip through our magazines right away.  My husband can always find me standing at the mailbox or wandering into trees from reading.

FEATURED - Monday, August 4th 2008

Dior Fall 08 Collection: Review, Swatches

Overall, Dior's new fall collection offers a nice collection of neutrals with an edge of color.  This is a great collection espically for neutral lovers wanting to ad a jolt of color this fall.  However, I was slightly disappionted because some shades were sheer and the pay-off wasn't there -espically for darker skin tones.  I'd hoped this collection be in the same category as MAC's Cult of Cherry with rich, dark, vampy shades but, it's not.  

Dior's new Fall 08 makeup collection, Dandy Lady, should be readily available at most counters or within the next week.  Check out all the photo swatches below. 

My local counter didn't have all their stock in so, one lippie's missing.  Despite the promotional images, Fantastic Plum applied sheer as a cool berry shade which, was a huge disappiontment to me because I was expecting more of a dark, gothy shade.  Regardless, it's an beautiful berry-wine color.

Delicious Plum is a gorgeous berry wine color with excellent pay-off and is the bread winner of the four. 

The gorgeous olive green and gold in the Khaki eye liner looked divine with my olive complexion and green eyes. 

At first, Dior's 5-colour quint in Earth Tones didn't interest me whatsoever until swatched.  All the colors had excellent pay-off on my NC-30 skin and was suprisingly beautiful.  However, I didn't pick this up yet, the word is YET.  This is an great universal quad that would appeal on anyone.

From the first sight of the product image - I knew this wouldn't be for me.  The color pay-off took several swipes to achieve the swatched color above. 

Both eye shadow duo's are pretty but, nothing unique from the Silver and Bronzy.

While the exotic crocodile print in the Impression Cuir is striking to look at but,  the color pay-off wasn't there.  The swatch above was swiped serval times with my finger and who wants to ruin the gorgeous print?  Copper Diamond highligher is just simply gorgeous for every complexion.  My Dior MA told me all five shades are different colors which, is something Dior usually don't do.  Simply stunning.

Being a crazed nail polish addict - it was a no brainer for these drool worthy vampy shades.  Red Ebony, a glossy reddish brown creme with subtle shimmer that's featured in the Dandy Lady campaign ad, is much prettier than expected.  Initially, this shade didn't come home with me because I didn't think it was special but, it is!  Hopefully, you guys were able to pick up the Nordstrom Beauty Exclusive, Liquorice - a pretty plum color drenched with shimmer.

I've been told Dior's, Red Ebony nail polish, is only avaiable at Dior counters and will not be available at Sephora or Nordstrom.  Sephora is also debuting a Dior exclusive called Mystic Violine which should be available sometime this month.

FEATURED - Wednesday, August 13th 2008

MAC Cult of Cherry: Review and Swatches

Tonight at the Cult of Cherry launch party godiva chocolate martinis and yummy hors d'oeuvres were served by the sexy and stylish Cult of Cherry chic all decked out in cherries.  The store was packed and extremely hot as they only let about 40 people in at a time - that's alot considering how little the stores usually are.  The hot flashes were starting to come on and I couldn't wait to get the heck outta there.

Overall, Cult of Cherry is a great selection of color to choose for Fall - from dark vampy colors to reds and pinks.  It's a great variety for every appetite.  The lipstick and lipglasses impressed me the most - espically, the Mattene colors.  The shades are dark, vampy and have fabulous color payoff - exactly what I'm looking for this fall season.  Jampacked lipglass is drop dead gorgeous and will appeal on any skintone, seriously.  I saw this shade on fair, medium and dark skin - truely beautiful ya'll.

Check out some swatches below. 

The Mattenes's are in a slimline case much like the slimshines but are semi-matte texture.  Some of us probably won't like the textrues - just because they don't glide on easily like MAC's lipsticks.  But, don't let that hold you back because the colors are fab and looks hot paired up with MAC's lipglasses.

So Scarlet - a must have dark wine shade and Creme Cerise - yellow beige neutral shade are the two stand-out colors in this collection.  Lightly Ripe is also a pretty pink color if you looking to tone it down a bit.

Cult of Cherry - a sparkling red with amazing color pay-off along with Jampacked a deep grape gloss that leans more on the dark magenta side are both must have colors. 

Blooming was hardly faint on my NC-35 and Plum De Bois is a beautiful brownish plum that would appeal even on lighter skin tones.  The color is very buildable and not to dark.

As much as I wanted to resist the yellowish lime shade of Sharp - I couldn't.  The color has excellent pay-off and just looked amazing with the other shades in the quad.  Sharp looks espically fabulous on ladies of color.

The bad news - there's two repromotes in this quad and thank goodness it's not Satin Taupe.   I know some of you are torn on wether to purchase this quad for the yellow shade.  So, here's my advice on the situation.  If you own overgrown or bitten you might want to think about passing on this one because their close.  Personally, I don't own those two shades which, is one of the reasons this came home with me. 

Spiced Choclate quad is suprising beautiful with excellent pay-off.  I didn't expect to bring this home with me.  In fact, me and my friend Tracy both picked this one up.  Very gorgeous - the orange frosty shade reminded me alot of Firespot from the Moonbathe collection.

Shadowy Lady quad was the only one that didn't interest me.  When I was swatching this quad at the Launch party with my girlfriend Tracy - she automatically picked up on how boring the colors were.  And she's not a crazed MAC fan like myself.    

Illegal Purple is a glossy black cherry shade verses a purple eggplant as described on the color story, which, was a little disappionting.  It's very pretty and the application applied flawlessly but, it's just your standard black cherry creme polish.  Now, on to Silverstruck, a gorgeous multi-dimensional grey taupe frost that is so very "WOW" unique.  I'll be posting a seperate swatches for the nail polishes.

So, there it is!  What do you guys think of Cult of Cherry - Any takers?  I'll be posting my haul pictures soon.

FEATURED - Friday, August 15th 2008

MAC Cult of Cherry: Nail Polish Swatches

MAC in Illegal Purple is a blackened deep cherry that applied ultra glossy and flawless.   The cult of cherry color story described this color as a blackened eggplant purple which you'll see in the first coats but, after that, it's all about chocolate cherries. 

Although, this is just your typically black cherry creme - it's very stunning.  Initially, Illegal Purple was just oh, *yawn* but, sporting this shade around has me thinking differently.  One particular thing I loved, is the ultra glossy formula - it's chic and goes perfectly with the cult of cherry theme. 

 Candid shot of Illegal Purple - I love how super glossy this formula is!

I didn't waste my time trying to get a good picture because it wasn't happening.  Silverstruck's such a unique shade - there's no capturing the true beauty, honestly.  Ok, here's a go - a taupeish gray frost that has red, gold, green flicks of shimmer.  The red shimmer gives this taupe shade a copperish red metallic undertone - truely unique.

The texture reminds me of Chanel in Kaleidoscope except with a taupe base color and green, red, gold shimmer flecks.  My swatches were applied with three coats with no application issues.  You'll start to notice a copper reddish metallic finish when 3 or more coats are applied.

I had to post this because it's the craziest picture!  Within the multi-second of the flash - this critter felt the need to jump in.  The cult of cherry nail polishes will be available on August 21st at freestanding stores and maccosmetics.com.

Need more MAC?  Check out the cult of cherry photo swatches, review, lip looks using cult of cherry lipstick colors and my makeup haul.

FEATURED - Friday, August 15th 2008

MAC Haul: Cult of Cherry, Overrich Collection

Happy Friday Everyone!  It's about 80 degrees, sunny and just a beautiful start to the weekend.   Although, I don't look forward to weekends anymore like the good ole days.  Ahh, my younger days - fearless, fun and crazy.  Hopefully you guys aren't sick of all my cult of cherry posts - it's just a great collection!

So, the launch party was crazy packed when I was checking out and the MA screwed up my order and didn't catch it until the morning after.  There's some items missing and others unexpected.  Check out all my haulin pictures below.

Spiced Chocolate and Tempting Eyeshadow Quad's.  The only quad I planned on getting was Tempting - so, what does that tell ya!

The two stars of the lipsticks: So Scarlet - deep red wine and Creme Cerise - a yellow taupe that may have the appeal of a peachy neutral on some skintones.

Bing is a deep purple shade that's quite dark but spiced up with Cult of Cherry lipglass looks smashing.  I'll be posting some lip looks in the next day.  Rapturous was a shade I didn't order initially, but, ended up liking anyway.  It's more of a cherry red shade compared to So Scarlet.

So Scarlet is my favorite lip product out of the collection - the pink, purple and gold glitter makes this fab.

My favorite color and definitley a must have product from the lipglass collection.  This baby spices up all the mattenes from dark and vampy to va-va volumptous!  A bold red shade means: sexy, confident, powerful - that's exactly what this collection is.  Jampacked is another great color following Rich & Ripe.  Those are the two shades my MA didn't include.  I plan on picking up two back-ups of Cult of Cherry - it's such an universal color. 

 Plum De Bois is the must lust from the blushes.  A gorgeous plum with gold flecks that has buildable color - it's not as dark as it looks.

All the Overrich pigments are excellent.  Antique Green and Vintage Gold were two stand out colors for me.  Since most of the shades are going to be permnament pro colors - I can stock up one by one.

 

Want more creme of the crop?  Check out the photo swatches, review, lip looks using cult of cherry lipstick colors and nail polish swatches.

FEATURED - Saturday, August 30th 2008

Prefall collection: spongebob to the rescue

It's officially pre-fall and Rescue Beauty Lounge introduces three fun and chic shades this season.   This new collection is inspired from Marc Jacob's love for Spongebob.  Starfish Patrick - a creamy coral shade, Square Pants - a pale lemon shade with subtle shimmer and Bikini Bottom - a watery baby blue creme that top's my favorite.

What a genius idea - prefall shades!  So, it's not an official season - it should be.  From the end of summer to the beginning of fall - what colors to wear?  Isn't that the worst?  Well, these colors are perfect.  Not to dark and not to bright.  End the season right, girlfiriend!

Spongebob who?  Honestly, if it wasn't for my neices of nephews - I would have no knowledge of the popular childrens tv show.   So, regardless of the inspiration - these colors totally rock.  Take confidence in Ja Baek and the RBL team because they never let us down.  The formula is true perfection along with the brush.

Check out the swatches below. 

Starfish Patrick looks more brighter and vibrant pictured above.  But, in real life, it's more toned down.

Square Pants is a great color.  It's a soft, pale yellow that's pefect for any ocassion.  Very chic and feminine.

Candid shot of Square Pants.

Bikini Bottom - my favorite shade out of the collection.  A watery baby blue creme that looks stunning on your nails and feet.  Oh boy, I can't wait to use this shade for my next pedi.

The Spongebob collection is now available at Rescue Beauty Lounge and retail for $18.00/each.

Want more RBL?  Check out their "must have" Fall 08 Collection.

FEATURED - Thursday, September 18th 2008

Lippmann Collection: New Shades for Fall

Deborah Lippmann introduces a whole bunch of goodies this fall for your nails.  A couple of items I picked up from the fall collection is Party Like a Rockstar Set ($25) and Superstar ($15).

Party Like a Rockstar Set includes two (small size) limited edition shades: Good Girl Gone Bad - a gorgeous purple with pink and silver shimmer, Devil in a Blue Dress - a midnight blue and a small fast dry topcoat.

Check out the photo swatches below.

Good girl gone bad - a sexy purple vixen nail polish named after Rihanna's hit album/song.  A gorgeous purple loaded down with pink and silver shimmer.  Since there is so much pink shimmer, this looks magenta purple in some lights.

Devil in a Blue Dress - a darkened navy blue - black creme.  This is just your standard midnight navy blue creme - nothing special.

Debroah Lippmann best describes Superstar as a copper flecked fudge.  A brown base coat filled with massive amouts of copper, brown and gold glitter.  Superstar is definitely out of the ordinary and different - which is one of the reasons it's starting to grow on me. 

This collection is now available online.

FEATURED - Monday, September 22nd 2008

Fall 08 Collection: Borghese Wines of Tuscany

Borghese introduces the Wines of Tuscany collection this Fall 08'.  A collection of seven limited edition shades of vampy reds, pinks, browns, and plums.  Overall, this is a nice collection espically, if you love dark, vampy plummy shades.

Out of the collection, I came home with four of the stand-out shades.  The pink and reds didn't interest me much because it's just your standard hot pink and reds - nothing unique.

Check out the photo swatches below.

 

 Pomino Plum - a burgandy plum with pink and blue shimmer. 

Vini Violet - a deep magenta purple creme.  This was one of my favorite shades out of the collection.  It's a much deeper purple magenta in real life and looks fantastic on toes.

Brunello Grape - A deep blackened grape with matching shimmer.  A very gorgeous, vampy shade for fall.  There was another similar shade in this collection to Brunello Grape but, not as pretty in my opinion. 

Espresso Brown - a brownish red with red and gold shimmer.  The wines of Tuscany collection is now available at your local CVS or Walgreens.

Hope ya'll had a wonderful weekend!   

FEATURED - Thursday, September 25th 2008

Fall Collection: Rescue Beauty Lounge Swatches

This fall, Ji Baek, creator of Rescue Beauty Lounge, took a very different approach.  Introducing three, very different shades from most Fall collections we've seen this year.  Different and unique equals love for me.

Most of you probably think I'm obsessed with polish, which is true most of the times  - I won't lie.  But, one thing I'm more obsessive about is finding rare and unqiue shades just like these three new ones.

Check out the swatches below.

      

Come on, need I say more about this heavenly color.  A must have shade for Fall and I say "must have" delicately.  Teal is "IT" for fall.  Look around, everywhere you see in Fashion is Teal and I'm absolutey loving it.  Infact, this color is smashing paired up with some of INC's fall fashion looks.

The name "Teal" is pretty much self explanatory.  Described as a deep teal creme that's incredibly stunning on every skin tone.  The new colors are highly pigmented and only require two coats to acheive bottle color.  And, the application applies like butter like all the Rescue Beauty Lounge polishes.

 

I once heard this described on Makeup Alley as baby poo and about pee'd my pants.  But, seriously, that's the best way to describe it.  A deep olive army green that looks great on olive skin tones.  No more War is going to be that shade that's the hardest to pull of with most people.

Love No More War but hate the cost?  Check out a great alternative to this super unique shade. 

Bruised is the shade the sold out almost immediately through pre-sale.  A dark mauve plum that's hard to describe.  When I look at bruised on my nails, I'm seeing more of a deep mauvey plum shade.  If your looking for more of a darker plum color - three coats should do the trick.

Overall, excellent collection for fall.  Right on track with the fashion trends.    This collection is now available at Rescue Beauty Lounge and retails for $18.00/each.

Want more Rescue Beatuy Lounge?  Check out their Pre-Fall Spongebob Collection.

FEATURED - Friday, September 26th 2008

Nail Polish of the day: MAC Seasonal Peach

Happy Friday everyone!  I vouched to myself that NYC's molten metal wasn't coming off.  But, I really wanted to try MAC's new polish from the Cremesheen collection.  First off, I totally regret removing it because it wasn't worth it, for sure.

Seasonal Peach - a peachy pink creme that reminds me of Nars Orgasm but in a creme form.  For this "so called" revolutionary formula, it was everything but that.  My application was just awful.  Infact, I tried applying this two different ways.  Thin coats and thick coats and it just didn't work out for me - leaving the finished results rather streaky.

The good news: it's a nice soft feminine color that looks great on lighter skin tones.  My NC-35 skin tone was just was too extreme for this shade.  Giving the appeal of a brighter peach that stood out like a sore thumb.

   

Hope you guys have a great weekend!

FEATURED - Wednesday, October 8th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Sephora Metro Chic

Happy Hump Day, ya'll!  At my previous job, one of my co-workers would come in every Wednesday and say "Happy Hump Day".  It drove us girls bonkers to the point we'd always laugh.  It's been rainy here and I just want to crawl back into bed.  But, I didn't.  Instead, I decided to finally open my Metro Chic ($10.00) that I've been stashing for quite sometime.

This baby has been getting alot of press lately.  So, I wanted to see what all the rage was about.  A grayish purple creme that certianly lives up to the name "Metro Chic".  The formula was thicker than I liked and applied rather streaky at first.  But, eventually smoothed out when it was all said and done.

Metro Chic is different and unique.  Metro Chic is always sold out at sephora stores and online.  Giving those two reasons - it's bound to be all the rage, duh!  But,  please, don't get stupid and pay those insane ebay prices.  Because all in all, it's not worth more than the retail price of nine bucks.  I share the same views with one of my favorite nail polish blogs, The Polish Addict.  So, make sure you check out her blog and put an end to this madness.

 

Ok, enough about my rant.  One reason I like Metro Chic - it's a cross between purple and gray, two of my favorite colors.  Indoor lighting, the grayish appears more visible and outdoors you'll notice a purple gray shade.  But, don't let the "temporarily out of stock" on Sephora's site get you down because they will be restocking this.  Infact, they've replinished stock three times already.  So, don't give up all hope.

Although, there may not be an exact dupe - we have some good contenders,  I'll be posting in the next few days!  Have a great Wednesday, you guys!

FEATURED - Thursday, October 9th 2008

MAC Emanuel Ungaro: Review, Photo Swatches

Dreamy, softly impressionistic, reverential...To celebrate his exciting debut, It-Designer, Esteban Cortazar, celebrity makeup artist, Sharon Dowsett, and M·A·C come together backstage to create a colour collection in the spirit of today's Ungaro.

Overall, this collection is a fresh outlook towards fall.  Unlike most collections out there, Ungaro offers a selection of neutral and pink pales shades.  MAC's been saving me some major mula lately.  These last few releases, I've been coming home empty handed.  I just wasn't feeling this collection whatsoever.  The eyeshadows seemed dull to me when swatching.  However, I did like the Creme Colour base.

Check out the swatches below. 

Soft Flower was a very bright (almost too bright for me) coral shade.  And, honestly, I just wasn't feeling any of these colors excpet Phloof which is in MAC's permanment stock..

MAC's Cream Colour base was the only worthwhile products from the launch that peeked my interest.  The texture was incredibly smoothy and creamy.  Their even multi-purpose that's suitable for eyes and cheeks.  Fresh Morning makes for a great nude lip topped with your favorite lip glass.

Not So Shy lip stain don't even compare to Benefits, Benetint as far as quality.  But, I do have to give my props to MAC because the day after swatching, the red stain was still on my hand.

Both lipsticks were pretty nude on me.  It took several applications to achieve any color on my lips.

Flower Mist Dew is a chalky pink shade that was barely faint on my NC-30 skin.

The Emanuel Engaro collection is now available at maccosmetics.com.

FEATURED - Friday, October 10th 2008

Sally Hansen Fall 08: Tracy Reese Collection

Year after Year Sally Hansen collaborates with fashion designer, Tracy Reese to bring us the latest and greatest nail trends right from the Runway.  For Fall 2008, Sally Hansen and Tracy Resse introduces 10 limited edition shades directly from Tracy's Fall 2008 Fashion Runway show.

The fall collection includes 10 new shades sure to please any appetite.  The shades range from your basic nude colors to vampy and edgy - perfect for fall trends.  Sally's best selling formula provides full coverage with two easy applications.  Some colors used three applications just to even everything out.  But, overall, two coats was the average for me.

Check out all the photo swatches below.

I'll be the first to admit - nude colors aren't my thang but, Divinity - a true nude with gold shimmer and slight pink undertones ended up being one of my favorite shades from the Fall collection.

 

Quartz Chameleon - a soft pink with gold shimmer.

Moonstone was my least favorite shade from the Tracy Reese collection.  Despite the grey bottle color, it's more of an white frost with silver shimmer. 

If it wasn't for Sally Hansen's previous release in Gunmetal, I would be all over this color.  Stormy Blue was slightly disappionting just because Gunmetal is pretty much an exact dupe.

 For the swatch above, three coats were applied on each nail.

Raven's Wing - a black loaded down with black, gold, and silver shimmer that's very blingy.  I absolutely love black nail polish colors for Fall - it's the new blue baby.  What makes Raven's Wing different from any other black is the beautiful gold base shimmer.

The Good Earth - a dark brown coffee shade with gold and red shimmer.  Good Earth is a darker brown than Chanel's new one, Haute Chocolat.  Check out the brown nail polish comparisons.

Alchemy, another favorite from the collection, a magenta purple with red and pink shimmer.

Cruel Heart - a ruby red with matching shimmer.  Just your standard red, nothing special.

Night Lily - a deep berry purple pink creme.  Unfortanetly, my swatch isn't an accurate color respresentation for some reason.  It's a much deeper purple berry shade that's very pretty. Check out an example below.

Night Lily has the same base color as Massini's Purple Medallion.  Just to give you an idea how off my swatch is above.

The Tracy Reese collection should be available now at most stores reatailing ($4.99 and up).

FEATURED - Tuesday, October 21st 2008

MAC Dame Edna Collection: Color Story

Lipstick (LE) - $14.00 USD

• Kanga-rouge – Creamy dark blue red (amplified creme)
• Gladiola – Matte mid-tone blue pink (matte)
• Coral polyp – Creamy mid-tone coral (amplified creme)

Lipglass (LE) $14.00 USD

• Hot Frost – Sheer mid-tone blue pink with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (frost)
• Splendid – Frosty pale pinky coral (frost)
• Possum Nose Pink – Sheer bright coral with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (frost)

Eye Shadow Trio (LE) - $32.50 USD

Royal Tour Eye Trio

• Royal Tour – Mid-tone cool lilac (satin)
• Dame’s Desire – Frosty mid-tone reddish purple (frost)
• Climate Blue – Dark blue violet with pink pearlized pigments (velvet) (Repromote from Cool Heat)

Wisteria Eye Trio

• Fineshine - Frosty true-silver (lustre) (Repromote from Lustrevision)
• Wisteria – Frosty robin’s egg blue (velvet)
• Divine Night – Frosty charcoal with silver pearlized pigments (velvet)

Highlight Powder (LE) - $26.00 USD

• What a Dame! – Pale orangey pink
• Spectacle – Pale soft pink

Nail Lacquer (LE) $11.00 USD

• Asiatique – Creamy classic red (creme) (Repromote from Ornamentalism)
• Varicose Violet – Frost mid-tone pinkish purple (frost)

The Dame Edna Collection will be available December 26th (US/Canada).

{Source: Specktra}

FEATURED - Monday, October 27th 2008

Winter 2008: China Glaze Bahama Blues

Escape this winter with China Glaze and the Bahama Blues collection.  Sure, it's not the white sand  or the crystal clear waters, but maybe the closest thing I'll get to the Caribbean.  Introducing six new shades sure to please any blues.

First off, I love this collection and it's probably not the reason your thinking.  If there's a collection I can relate to, this would totally be it.  Back in December of 2006, Scott (my hubbie) and I were married on the beach in the Bahamas.  The setting was absolutely amazing along with the town decked our in christmas lights and decor.

Winter (starting in Dec) is a great time to visit the Caribbean.  The hurricane season is just ending and the prices are fairly reasonable.  I highly recommend a visit in the winter.

Let's gettie on to the good stuff.

Bahaman Escape, a light baby blue cream that applied very smooth within two coats.  Although, I dreaded applying this because the formula was rather thick it turned out to be fairly easy.

Caribbean Blue, a baby blue glitter polish that's darker than your average baby blue shade.  This was definitely an interesting and different color.  However, it just didn't flow with my skintone for some reason.  I think this will be a hard color pull off.  

Blue Paradise, a medium blue with shimmer that applied rather streaky with any number of coats.  This was the only shade I had any true problems with. 

Don't Blue Island Iced Tea sound like a yummy cocktail drink?  A blingtastic light blue filled with matching glitter.  Two coats will give you good coverage.  I used three in my swatches just to see how blinged out this baby could get.  My thrid favorite.

These next two shades looked very simliar in the bottle but are different.

Bermuda Breakaway, a navy purple creme that applied smooth in two coats that was my favorite.  The violet base makes this blue stunning espically on your pedi's. 

Calypso Blue, a lighter navy blue creme that applied smooth in two applications..  This isn't your typically deep navy blue color.  I'd say there's just a splash of violet that makes this "not so blue" and fab.

Despite the actual color on my nail, the bottles looked completely alike but are very different.  Both gorgeous colors.

The Bahama Blues collection is now available at Head2Toe or 8ty8 retailing $2.99 each.

FEATURED - Friday, October 31st 2008

Allure's Editors Favorite: Borghese Vini Violet

Wouldn't being the beauty editor of Allure or a major beauty publication magazine be the best job ever?  This month in Allure's November issue, Borghese nail lacquer in Vini Violet ($7.99) gets the spotlight for editiors favorites.

Borghese introduced this scrumptous dark purple shade with the Wines of Tuscany fall collection.  Described as an gorgeous deep magenta purple creme that's stunning on nails or toes.

After organzing my enormous nail polish collection the other day, I came to realize that purple "rules" not only in my collection but in my heart beating out any other shade including blues.

The Wines of Tuscany collection should be available now at your Borghese retailer.

FEATURED - Friday, November 21st 2008

MAC Metal Urge: Review and Swatches

A rich new vein of rare earth-inspired shine and shadow is ready to be mined. Enhance your precious worth with Brushed Metal-X Eye Shadow. Excavate the delights of new and bring-back shades of Pigment, Reflects Glitter, and Liquidlast Liner. Give in to the urge!

Overall, the metal urge eye shadows are an improvement from Metal-x collection.  The eye shadow texture applied very smooth and cremey, but yet have good color pay-off.   If your not into creme based textures, I'd pass on this one. 

Yesterday at the MAC store, only two items came home with me: Verdigris eye shadow and Spiritiualize pigment.  My MA had both these shades piled on with no creasing, this is a good sign.

Check out the swatches below. 

 

 

 

The Metal Urge collection is now available for a limited time at MAC stores and maccosmetics.com.

FEATURED - Monday, November 24th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Hot Topic Gray Muted

Happy Monday!  It's your typical start of the week - cold, rainy and the perfect time to just crawl back in bed.   Today's nail polish of the day is Hot Topic's Gray Muted ($2.99).  Best described as Recyle and Teal's long lost cousin.  A stormy gray-blue creme that had excellent color pay-off with just one simple coat!

Talk about unique, different and cheap.  All rare qualities in the nail polish world nowadays.

Check out more swatches below.

Some photo comparisons below.

Although Recycle and Gray Muted may look very different, it was hard to notice a difference under artificial lighting at Hot Topic.  It's such a complimentary wardrobe color - gray, blue, teal, black.

Hope ya'll have a wonderful Monday!  Think short work week!

FEATURED - Wednesday, November 26th 2008

NOTD: Nail Fantasies Twist and Shout

Happy Wednesday - or should I say Friday for most of us!  The night before Thanksgiving was always a huge night for me back in the day.  Nowadays, the government's buckling down and it's not worth risking someone's life or your entire world as you know it.

It's winter for sure!  And I'm hating it since my return from the gorgeous sunshine state, Florida.  With all the blah weather at hand, I need some cheering up with an eye opening shade such as Twist and Shout ($2.20) by Nail Fantasies.

So, there's a story behind this one, but isn't there always a story with nail polish?!  This is the only shade at my local Walmart that totally stands out - yet is always sold it.  I've seen Twist and Shout for months and months now.  And, always thinking "who would ever wear that color anyway!"

Well, guess who just bought it and loves it now! *running away with her foot in her mouth* 

Check out the swatches guys! 

 

The green shade on all Cetaphil products is the best way to describe Twist and Shout.  A true apple creme that applied fairly well in three coats.  No brush stroke problems either.

I've never heard of Nail Fantasies products, but I beleive it may be an extension of love my nails cosmetics.  So, If you like this color - check out the love my nails makeup displays.

Have a safe and happy pre-thanksgiving! 

FEATURED - Friday, November 28th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Claires Cosmetics in Envy

Hope everyone's Turkey day was fabulous!  Today, I'm staying glued to the couch and you couldn't pay me enough to deal with the shopping maheim!

Claire's nail polish in Envy ($3.50, .5 oz) was my shade yesterday for Thanksgiving and it's still on today - so, you gotta know I love it!  Described as a fairly sheer dark grey base with mostly green shimmer and some blue.

The only negative aspect about Envy is the base color is pretty sheer and requires at least four applications to obtain bottle color.  But, for me, it was well worth the four coats.

To eliminate additional coats you could always start with a dark creme base such as OPI Black Onyx or Milani's Black Magic and build from there.

Check out some more pics. 

 

Overall, Evny tends to looks like a blackened forest green shade and at $3.50 it's quite a steal.  Have a great day!

Envy should be available at all Claire's stores.

FEATURED - Saturday, November 29th 2008

Fall Winter 08: OPI La Collection De France

 

Couture Couleur La De France fall/winter 08 collection features twelve rich, senous colors inspired by the effortless elegance of French fashion.

Despite the fact I'm so fashionably late posting my Fall swatches, the OPI France collection has some truely unique shades this year.  Starting off with the most unique and my personal favorite, You Don't know Jacques.  A deep brownish gray taupe creme that compliments most every skintone.  Another great shade coming in second is Parlez-vous.  Described as a lavendar purple with gray undertones.

What I passed on - most the Reds.  There's only so much you can do with red and while most of the shades in the France collection were nice, they just didn't interest me.

Check out the swatches below. 

Bastille My Heart - a medium cherry apple red with subtle pink shimmer.  I would of preferred this to be a tad bit darker.

 This image is a good color representation of Bastille my Heart.

We'll Always Have Paris - a dark vampy purple reddish creme.  A great plum shade for fall.

You Don't Know Jacques was one of the many stand-outs in this collection and my favorite.  Described as a Muddy Grey Taupe creme.  It's different, unique and just a fab neutral color all around. 

Lourve me Lourve me not - a violet base with blue and red shimmer. 

Parlez-vous OPI is another one of the stand-out colors in the France collection.  A lavender purple with muted gray creme.

Tickle my France-y is a nice neutral shade that's anything but sheer.  This is the perfect anytime shade that you can leave on your nails for days and not have to worry about coordinating with your work wardrobe.  

Eiffel for this color is a darkened plum with blue and pink shimmer that simply looked stunning on.   

Eiffel for this Color

Yes.. I can-can a darkened red plum much like We'll have Paris' base color, but with added silver shimmers.  I preferred this one over We'll have Paris because the silver sparkles gives a bit of kick.

I'll be adding a few more swatches this week.

The OPI collection de France is now available at OPI retailers and 8ty8 and Head2Toe.

FEATURED - Sunday, November 30th 2008

Fall Winter 08: Misa Poisoned Passion Collection

Misa introduces the Poisoned Passion collection this fall and winter 2008.  A collection of six seductive dark vampy shades of red, purple, blue and green.

Overall, Poisoned Passion is a nice collection of five shimmers and one creme shade.  Being a lover of shimmer polishes, I was pleased with all shades and glad only one being a creme texture.

All colors are rich and infused with excellent pay-off.  Most colors only required two coats and only had problems with Dying love.

 

A Sin Worth Committing, vibrant royal blue with blue and aqua shimmers.  Much brighter than OPI Yogta get this blue and Jessica's Midnight Moonlight.

Dying Love was my favorite from the Fall collection even though the application was a little finicky.  A black with silver and light blue shimmer.

This one left some visible brush stokes, but I really liked how the blue and silver shimmer made an glaze effect on my nails, so I guess I'll deal with it.  If you take your time and don't rush, you shouldn't have any problems.

 Candid shot of Dying Love

Fatal Affair, purple with blue and pink shimmer.  The base color is distinctly purple, but the blue shimmer is so powerful it leaves a glaze type of blue shimmer on top.

 

Forbidden Lust, violet based purple with red and blue shimmer. 

 Love Bite, the only creme and the dud of the collection.  Burgandy red brown creme.

Toxic Seduction, a blackened teal with gold and green shimmer.  Being a green nail polish fanatic, you'd think Toxic Seduciton rank up there with my favorites, but it didn't, for me at least. 

At first, Toxic Seduction was like love at first sight.  But, after a day or so of wear and tear, the once vivid teal was gloomy and darkened like a cloud was hoovering over.  My nails looked somewhat dull.  Mostly because of the "darkened" in Toxic Seduction.

The Poisoned Passion collection is available at Head2Toe.

FEATURED - Monday, December 1st 2008

Holiday 08: China Glaze Under the Mistletoe

Just in time for the Holidays China Glaze introduces Under the Mistletoe collection.  A mixture of five sexy siren red shades and one top coat sure to meet your holiday fixes this year.

Now, you know it wouldn't the holidays without a hot n sassy red nail polish collection from China Glaze.

Red speaks - powerful, sexy and confidence.  No wonder many women around the world continuelessly wear this bold shade and yet, season after season it effortlessly never goes out of style.

Check out the photo swatches below. 

High Roller, a tomato cherry red glossy creme.  Looking at High Roller and Masai Red side by side it's hard to distinguish a difference, but High Roller is more of an brighter red with orange undertones.

 Candid shot of High Roller.

Masai Red, a deeper cherry red glossy creme that's a great red all-around,  I preferred this one much more than High Roller.

Ruby Pumps, a holiday favorite that never lets us down ladies and gent.  Think Dorothy and her fabulous ruby slippers that we all wanted and still want even!

 Long Kiss, one of my favorites from this collection, deeper burgandy red with shimmer.

Go Crazy Red reminded of Red Stallion from the Rodeo Diva Fall collection.  Described as a cherry red with gold shimmer.

Under the Mistletoe is now available at 8ty8 and retails for $14.00 (set of 5).

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 16th 2008

Steph's Closet One Year Anniversary Giveaway

Good morning all!  December's a special month for me and not because of the Christmas Holiday.  Last year at this time I can remember sitting with my husband at the Las Vegas conference center listening to Matt Cutt from Google and Craig from Craig's List and other successful bloggers speak.  At that exact moment, I knew blogging was for me, but didn't realize what I was getting into.

I'm not going to bore ya'll with all the geeky details, but I plan on writing a pretty lengthy post on my first year of blogging.  Anyhoo, on to the good stuff.

This has been a beyond excellent year for me and my blog at Steph's Closet.  Since the beginning, my traffic is 50 times the amount it once was and it's all thanks to my awesome readers.

How do I enter:

Simple!  Just post a comment.  Anyone that has a email address can post a comment on Steph's Closet.  Please make sure email address is current for contacting reasons only!  Email addresses are NEVER displayed or given out at anytime.  Must be a U.S. or Canda mailing address Only one entry per person Winner(s) will be picked randomly and announced mid to end Janurary

All items are brand new and unused.  1st prize details: Chanel Sublimage Eye .14, Strivectin SD Eye Creme 1 oz, bliss body butter 1 oz, Rescue Beauty Lounge mini sample kit - lotions, body wash, mini opi metal file, amazing graze buffing wash, glitter files

All full size and unsed Nail Polishes: SH emerald city (green), Nicole Show you Care (dark purple shimmer), China Glaze Ruby Pumps (gorg red glitter), CQ Chocolate Plum (brown plum), Revlon Berry Jeweled (magenta shimmer) , Rimmel Pop Quiz (peach glitter) and Scene Stealer (brown glitter), Loreal B. Impulsive (blurple glitter).

 OPI Blue Lagoon (blue holographic), mini manicure set, blue glitter file.

Revlon Plum Flip (duochome plum), Berry Jeweled (magenta shimmer), glitter file and mini manicure set.

The winners are announced!

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 17th 2008

NOTD: Carolyn NY Frankie Joins the Navy

Hi Guys!  Sorry I'm getting my nail polish of the day in so late.  I've been messing with my new lighting this evening and totally lost track of time!  Since it's winter, the sun has the tendency of never coming out anymore and I just have to find another resource.  With a little practice, my new lights are going to work out perfectly! Yeah!

Carolyn New York in Frankie Join the Navy is a darkened teal shade with subtle shimmer that's extremely pretty.  The shimmer isn't very noticeable to the naked eye.  It almost resembles a creme like texture.

My application was perfect in three coats.  The formula was ultra glossy and applied as a jelly like formula.  Perfecto!

Hope you have a great night - I'm so ready for bed now.  Nighty - Night, Sleep Tite!

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 24th 2008

New Line: NYC introduces quick dry nail polish

 

Out with the old and in with the new is NYC's resolution.  You may have noticed stores clearing out the NYC glossies only to make room for these hip new colors.  I've seen that Meijer and some other stores have marked down the glossies to clearance.  Make sure you take advantage of those clearance items and stock up because their bye, bye, bye!

Details: NYC introduces a quick drying nail polish in under 60 seconds called, New York color in a minute.  A vast variety of 24 new colorful shades and one clear fast dry topcoat.

Overall, these are fab.  Most colors are exceptionally pigmented and only requires two coats with the exception of a few lighter shades.  The variety of colors are endless and priced at $1.99 is a steal.

Who has time to sit and wait around for polish to dry?  I certainly don't.  That's why these are perfect for me.  A quick drying polish that stays put for days. 

The nail polish names represent street and popular places you'll see in New York City.

 

Chelsea (first two pics above) 228B - deep candy apple shimmer.  Two coats, no topcoat.

Lincoln Center 232B - dark burgandy red-brown creme.  Two coats, no topcoat.

New* Just Added  Manhattan 248B - a deep burgandy magenta-purple creme that could be Lincoln Center's cous.

New* Just Added  It was hard capturing the true colors of both these shades.  Manhattan is much prettier with the magenta purplish undertones.  

Canal Street 220B - a dark brown red shimmer. Two coats, no topcoat.

New* Just Added  Broadway 238B- a red- brown cinnamon with red, gold and silver micro shimmer. Two coats.  No topcoat.

 

Fifth Avenue 218B (above) - a rusty copper orange shimmer.  Two coats, no topcoat.

Mulberry Street 212B - a white sand beige with shimmer.  Coverage was really good for light toned shade.  You could even get away with two coats on this one.  Swatch (above) three coats, no topcoat.

Update: After wearing this Creme Bruele shade (Mulberry Street) a few times, I ended up really liking it.  Possibly a mix between NYC's Little Italy and Bryant Park into a shimmer version.  

Little Italy - A crisp white or french white creme.  It's really hard to find a white opaque shade and sometimes I even resort to a french white such as Little Italy.  Swatch (above) two coats, no topcoat.

New* Just Added   Wall Street 234B - a mid tone pink with shimmer.  Three coats no topcoat. 

 

Soho 222B - A light pink feminine shade with shimmer.  Three coats, no topcoat.

New* Just Added   Uptown 242B - a barbie pink with shimmer.

New* Just Added   Here are some pink comparisons from the NYC line. Uptown is my favorite out of the three. 

Bryant Park 214B - a much lighter version of OPI's Charmed by a snake.  Described as a sand color beige with shimmer.  Bryant Park kinda blended in with my skintone.  Meh for me, but pretty on someone else.   Two coats, no topcoat.

New* Just Added   Park Avenue (two pics above) 246B - a unique duochrome shade that switches between taupe, lilac and pink.  Three coats.  No topcoat.

Central Park 216B - a light peach shimmer with some pink undertones.

New* Just Added   Midtown 240B - a vibrant hot pink with blueish-purple shimmer.  

New* Just Added   Downtown 244B - a dusty pomegranate pink creme. 

Times Square 224B - Perhaps the brighest color from this collection.  A bright coral with hints of tomato red creme.  Although my pictures may look tomato orange, Times Square also has distinct hints of coral pink.

 

 Penn Sation (two pics above) 230B - a magenta pink-red with shimmer.

 

East Village (two pics above) 206B - Turquoise blue shimmer that was somewhat sheer.  Three coats to acheive bottle color.  Swatch (above) Three coats, no topcoat.

West Village 204B - a navy blue base wiith pink and purple shimmer. Maybe not the most unique, but very pretty.  Two coats, no topcoat. 

 

Chinatown (two pics above) 210B - Saving the best for last.  Not quite black but not quite purple.  A unique ink  colored shade loaded with some duochrome micro shimmer that looks blue, silver, and mint green at different angles.  It was hard distinguishing the colors.  Talk about gorgeous, whoa!  I highly recommend Chinatown - a definite must have from this collection.

The NYC New York in a mintue quick dry is going to be a permanent line and should be hitting stores in the next couple weeks which retails for $1.89/ea.  So, get on over there and pick you up some Chinatown.

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 30th 2008

MAC Dame Edna Collection: Review, Swatches

Hallo Possums!" As mirthfully minx-like and tongue-in-chic as her dazzling persona, Dame Edna's eponymous limited-edition colour collection reveals the wit of her makeup passions...Like our muse, it's "spectacular"!

Overall, MAC releases yet another disappionting collection to close out the 2008 year.  Much better than the Chill collection, I think you'll find one or two worthwhile products to take home from this limited edition release espically if MAC's been burnin a hole in your pocket from these un-impressive collections.

The lipsticks were the obvious stand-outs.  Smooth, creamy and packed with loads of color.  Wisteria and Royal Tour eyeshadow quads were the most disappioning.  Both trios along with the Hi-light powders lacked good color pay-off and texture.

My Haul: Gladiola lipstick, Hot Frost lipglass and Varicose Violet nail polish.    

Wisteria and Royal Tour Eyeshadow Trios.

Gladiole, Coral Polyp and Kango Rouge Lipstick.  Still debating whether to pick up Coral Polyp or not.  All lipsticks had fabulous color payoff.  You really can't go wrong picking up one or two.

Hot Frost, Spendid and Possum Nose Pink lipglass. 

Spectacle and What a Dame Hi-Lite powders.  Took several swipes to achieve any kind of color pay-off. 

While visiting the Mall, I was able to get a sneak peek at Dior's Spring 09 Polishes also.  So, make sure you check those out. 

MAC's Vericose Violet is a semi sheer lilac purple with blue irisdescent shimmer.  Originally, I wasn't going to pick this up, but the MA's convinced me other wise after swatching.   Asiatique is your basic cherry red creme that's pretty standard and blah.  I'd say pass on that one.  Both shades are only available for a limited time.

I'll be posting Varicose Violet as one of my NOTD this week.  Stay tuned.      

The Dame Edna collection is now available at MAC stores and online.

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 31st 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Essie in Pama

Happy New Year's Eve everyone!  Some of you may remember, back in November Essie teamed up with Pama Liquer to give away free nail polish to celebrate National Pomegrante Month.  Anyway, to make a long story short, I totally missed out on it.  Can you guys believe that?!  I can.

Thanks to my girl Vanessa, she hooked me up with a sweet little bottle of this red pomegranate shade.  Thanks again doll!  Pama is described as a deep cherry red creme almost burgandy but not quite.  Much more red tones in there.

I've actually been wearing this for last couple days and just decided to keep it on for new years eve!

You guys have your resolutions planned out yet?  Hope you a safe and fabulous new year!

FEATURED - Thursday, January 1st 2009

Spring 09: Chanel Django Nail Polish

Happy New Years Day!  It's officially Janurary 1st 2009 - can you guys believe that?  And I was just getting used to writing 2008. Django is the second installment from the new spring 09 nail polishes.  Described as a soft pink with peach undertones and subtle shimmer.

We first saw Django make an appearance at Chanel's Spring 09 Fashion show last September.  This fabulous spring shade looked stunning on the runway models.  It was definitely a shade I had to see in person since I'm not so keen on light colors.

I'm impressed.  Django is the perfect shade for Spring.  Not pink, peach, or white.  Very different and perhaps a mix of the three.  The shimmer is very subtle and hardly noticeable for you creme lovers out there.  

Since the formula was a tad on the thick side, you may able to get by with two coats.  All my swatches were done with three coats.  Brush strokes were slighty visible in bright sunlight - rarely noticable though.  But, I'm also pretty critical when testing out my polishes.

 

Dior's Porcelain is similar to Django, but not an exact dupe when paired next to each other.  

Django is available online and at Chanel counters.

FEATURED - Tuesday, January 6th 2009

Carolyn New York Nail Polish Swatches

Happy Tuesday everyone.  It's rainy and cold here in Nati (cincinnati, OH).  So, hopefully everyone's keeping nice and warm.  With Carolyn's current New Years Promo going on, I thought it would be a perfect time to post some of my favorite shades.

Greenwich Ave,  (pictured above) is described as a apple green creme pefect for the upcoming Spring and Summer months.

Check out more swatches below.

Handball Courts, a must have shade for any gray lover, that's described as a light gray with subtle white-silver shimmer that's hardly noticeable expect in sunlight or bright light. 

Handball Courts - Natural Light. 

Hangin on the Stoop, another must have shade, espically if you love China Glaze's Recycle.  Described as a stormy gray creme that coordinates perfectly with the winter season. 

Subway Surfin, a dark gunmetal gray with rainbow color shimmer that's hardly noticeable except in sunlight or bright light. 

Good News guys!  MAC's discontinued shade in Nightfall is an exact dupe for Carolyn's Subway Surfin.  And, I do mean exact with very little differences.

All these shades are availabe at Carolyn New York and are 50% off retail plus free shipping until Janurary 10th.  Don't miss out.

Here's some other shades from Carolyn New York. 

FEATURED - Thursday, January 8th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Sally Hansen Lightening

Happy Thursday everyone!  Today, I wanted to start off with a bright electrifiying color such as Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri nail polish in Lightening.

Described as yellow creme that's just a tad lighter than Rescue Beauty's Yellow fever minus the sublte shimmer of RBL's.

A month ago, when I reviewed the Insta-Dri polishes, I was uncertain how the wide tapered brush was going to pan out.  But, after testing these babies out, I ended up really liking them.

The brush fit perfectly in my nail area and allowed me to achieve the two and three coat swipe that the Insta-Dri's are intended for. 

Check out one more swatch below.

The Insta-Dri polishes are now available at stores and retails for $4.99/ea.  Hope your having a fabulous day!

FEATURED - Saturday, January 10th 2009

A Great Alternative to No More War

Do you guys remember when I said Hot Topic colors rocked?  Well, this is a prime example of how unique their colors just are! 

Introducing Comrad Green.  Described as an olive green creme comparable to Rescue Beauty Lounge's popular fall shade, No More War.  Quite possibly one of the closest dupes out there to No More War.

Check out some swatches below.

On both comparisons above, three coats were used to show you guys the true differences.  However, you'll only need two to achieve bottle color.  When two coats were used, you couldn't hardly tell the difference between them.

No More War is a deeper olive green compared to Comrad Green which leans more towards the army green range.  But still, both are very much alike. 

 

I scored big time with this one.  I found it at my Hot Topic store in the clearance bin for only $.99!  So, make sure you hop on over to Hot Topic and check it out.

FEATURED - Sunday, January 11th 2009

Swatches Galore: Hot Topic Nail Polish

Since I've been talking about Hot Topic so much latley, I figured now would be a perfect time to post all my nail polish swatches.  Just a warning to ya'll -  pic spam galore here.  You'll probably find yourself scrolling and scrolling.  Sorry Chicas.

I'm going to brief you guys real fast so you can get down to the good stuff.

Price: $2.99 or cheaper, if you can spot any on clearance.  Those discount bins are seperate from the nail polishes, so check around or ask sales associate.  Most colors are available at Hot Topic stores usually located in Malls and some online.  You'll find more of an color selection at the actual shops.

Quality.  Here's some of my descripencies I have with Hot Topic's quality.  The awkward brush size and overall construction makes it a little hard to navigate on your nails.  Some formulas I find rather thick and others are just fine.  If you run into a thick formula, no worries.  All it takes is a drop or two of thinner such as Seche thinner Restore.  Guys, don't be afraid of thinner.  It's, so easy.

One of my blogger friends, Scrangie also has love for Seche Restore.  Click here to check out a great instructional she posted on how to repair your nail polish.

Bottom Line:  I'll deal with the formula & brush because the colors are kick ass.  Plain and simple! 

Muted Gray - A stormy blue gray creme.

Comrad Green - A great alternative to Rescue Beauty Lounge's, No More War.  Army green olive creme tht applied glossy.

Kelly Green surely speaks for itself.  A great alternative for Nars Zulu and Rescue Beauty Lounge's green.  A must have color for me.

Kelly Green

Pastel Pink Iridescent - a pastel pink with blueish purple iridescent shimmer.  The snapshot in the picture is accurate.  Three coats to achieve bottle color.

Pastel Purple Iridescent - a pastel purple with pinkish gold iridescent shimmer.  Three coats to achieve bottle color.

Bright Turquoise - a bright turquoise creme that dried to a satin like finish.  You'll need a top coat if you desire a glossy finish.

Bright Purple - a bright purple creme that dries to a satin just like bright turquoise.

Dark Pink - Dark Pink Fuschia creme that applied to a satin like finish.  You'll need a topcoat if you desire a glossy finish. 

 

Midnight Purple - a purple blue creme that sways towards an "ink" colored tone.  Very Vampy. Love this.

Chocolate Brown - a dark chocolate creme that applied glossy. 

Silver Glitter - an opaque silver metallic foil type glitter polish.

Black Glitter - a black base loaded with silver glitter.

Black Glitter

Red Glitter - light red based with silver and red glitter.  You'll need three coats to achieve bottle color.

Red Glitter

Turquoise Glitter - a light turquoise base with blue and silver glitter.  Three coats to achieve bottle color.

Turquoise Glitter

Blue Iridescent - navy blue based with matching and aqua blue glitter.  A must have color.

Blue Iridescent

Purple Iridescent - a purple based with purple and blue glitter.  Another must have color.

Purple Iridescent

*New Trq/Ht Pnk Chunky - OMG Hot Topic gives birth to a Glitter this Spring!  A gorgeous chunky hot pink and turquoise blue glitter.  The base is clear like RBL's and takes a good three to four coats for bottle color.  Well worth the hassle!

FEATURED - Wednesday, January 14th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Zoya Sweet

Happy Hump Day Everyone!  With Valentine's day creeping up next month, I wanted to break out some Sweet Zoya perfect for those candy lovers.

Described as a true pink bubblegum creme that applied perfectly in two coats.  No streaking or application problems.

Zoya's Sweet would also make for a hot pedicure shade.

Check out one more swatch below. 

Sweet was released with the Candy Collection which retails for $36.00 per set or $6.00/ea at Zoya. 

Hope you guys are having a fabulous day.    

FEATURED - Sunday, January 18th 2009

NOTD: New York Summer Amaranth

Happy Sunday!  I hope your having a terrific weekend so far!  With all this cold weather we've been having lately, I'm ready to Spring forward with a shade like New York Summer's Amaranth Green ($1.59).

Described as a bright grass green jelly that applied fairly sheer in three coats.  You'll need at least three or more coats to achieve the bottle color.

Amaranth isn't your typical grass green shade.  It's much brighter and has tealish undertones that you can't really noticable in my swatches. 

Check out one more swatch below. 

New York Summer Amaranth retails for $1.59 and is available at Transdesign.  Have a great night peeps!

FEATURED - Monday, January 19th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: CNY Summer in the City

Happy MLK Day Ya'll! Today the UPS came a knockin with sweet little package from Carolyn New York.  And, I was most excited to try out Summer in the City because of two reasons.

First off, there was no online swatches of this perfect pastel yellow shade.  Secondly, I've been totally obsessed with yellow ever since the debut of Yellow Fever by Rescue Beauty Lounge.  So, I had to see it!

Boy oh Boy, is this a beauty!  Infact, Summer in the City is creeping up to be one of my favorite yellows.  A light yellow pastel creme that has white undertones and is fairly opaque.  The white base is what makes Summer in the City so unique compared to all the other contenders.

Check out more pics below. 

 Pic taken outside in Natural Light. 

Summer in the City is truely unique.  The closest competitior I own is Square Pants.  As you can see their still way off.

The application was perfect for a yellow.  No streaking and you could possibly get away with two thick coats.  With cremes, I find it much easier to apply heavier coats.

Summer in the City retails for $7.99 and is available at Carolyn New York.

FEATURED - Saturday, January 24th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Borghese Milano Taupe

Happy Saturday folkies!   Today's nail polish of the day is a fabulous spring color named Milano Taupe ($6.99).  A truely uniuqe shade containing a little gray, plum and rose pink thrown into a creme texture.

The uniuqe shade of Milano Taupe was impossible to capture in my swatches.  Borghese formula applied perfectly in three light coats.

Check out all the swatches below.

 

 Taken indoors with Flash

 Indoors with Natural Light

To give you guys an idea, I've included some other plummy shades close to Milano Taupe.  Sephora's, Don't Call your Mother is the closest alternative.  But, as you can see in the picture above, Borghese's is much lighter with gray and pink undertones.

Milani Taupe is now availabe at CVS and retails for $7.99.  Have a great evening - Be safe all.

FEATURED - Tuesday, January 27th 2009

Product Review: Barielle Hand Creme

Product: Barielle Hand Creme

Price: $8.00 for 2.5 oz Travel Size

Steph's Rating:

Buy it:  CVS, Barielle

Recommend: Yes

Everyone wants great nails.  Why else would we spend a small fortune each year on salon services. 

The first rule to having great nails breaks down to one simple thing.  Moisturization. 

Just like our skin, our nails needs hydration and Barielle's Professional hand creme ranks number one in my book.

Details: For Dry, Chapped hands.  Rich in emollients, Vitamin E and Protein, this proven formula helps soften and moisturize hands while forming an invisible shield to help protect against water, wind or exreme cold.

The fresh clean scent of Barielle's hand creme is amazing.  Not sweet nor fruity.  Very Refreshing and Invigorating that doesn't leave your hands feeling greasy.  I've noticed after the first couple washes the scent actually sticks around.

Three places you'll find Barielle's hand creme.  1. My office desk  2. Main bathroom right next the soap  3. In my Purse.  A little goes a long way too.  All you need is a little dab.  Since it's meant for your hands, you could stretch it to last a couple months.

Barielle's hand creme is available online at Barielle or at CVS stores. The 2.5 ounce travel size retails for $8.00 and 6 oz $15.00.

FEATURED - Tuesday, February 3rd 2009

Milani Valentines: Illustrations of Love

The month of February marks the season of love and Milani gives you six reasons to celebrate the holiday in style.

The Illustrations of love collection is a new valentine's day release that includes: red and pinks for those passionate lovers, black and purple's for those wanting to vamp it up and grey's and whites for that laid back lover.

Overall, this is a great collection that offers a range of different shades to pick from!  The application was amazing and most colors only required two coats for bottle coverage.

Milani's nail polish has it goin' on.  Their quality is just as good as Sally Hansen or Borghese and other high end brands. 

Day Dreaming - a true medium gray creme.  Hands down, the best gray creme I've seen.  Not to dark nor too light.  Perfecto!

Spring has officially kicked the gray nail polish trend into high gear!  So, don't miss out on this perfect shade of gray.

It's official!  Milani's Day Dreaming is an exact dupe for MAC's On the Prowl from their latest Hello Kitty Collection. 

While digging through my small stash of grays, I came across two close contenders.  RBL's, Concrete Jungle is more blue based and Carolyn's, Handball Courts is much lighter with added shimmer.

Having some fun with Milani's Day Dreaming and black tips with SH's black nail art pen. 

Fond of You is the perfect off white creme that's a great alternative to Chanel's White Satin.  Actually, we might have an close dupe here.  I'll have to check later today and let you guys know.

The application was simply amazing for a white.  Only three coats to achieve bottle color. 

 

Sweetheart - a bright hot pink creme.  Not as vibrant as a neon.

Milani Sweetheart.

 

Sweet Love - a reddish pink with subtle pink and purple shimmer.  The actual shade was hard to caputre for some reason.

 Sweet Love.

My Darling - a charcoal black with mint green shimmer. 

Devoted - a deep black purple with subtle pink and purple shimmer.

The valentines day collection should be hitting stores this week.  Keep an eye out for Day Dreaming!

FEATURED - Saturday, February 7th 2009

Pedi of the Day: Black and White French

Hope ya'll are having an enjoyable day.  In the Cincy region, it's about 60 degrees and cloudy.  Heck, I'm not complaining though.  I'll take anything other than snow these days.

With warm weather and Spring creeping up, I thought now would be a perfect time to do a pedi post.  All feet are ugly.  There's nothing pretty about them.  And, what's even worse is giving yourself a home pedicure.

Usually I don't recommend salon services, but in this case it's definitely worth the splurge.  It's a perfect time to relax and treat your tooties to some pampering.  You deserve it!

For my pedicure, I used wet n wild black creme and the Sally Hansen nail art pen in white.  Wet n Wild's black polish is the best hands down.  It's opaque in one coat and super glossy.  Milani's Black Magic is another great black.

Have a fabulous night!

FEATURED - Wednesday, February 11th 2009

Zoya Jumps into Spring with a Twist

This Spring, Zoya introduces six new resfreshing colors to the Twist collection.  Instead of going the traditional route of sheers, pastels and nude, Zoya mixes it up with some feminine yet edge colors for everyone to love.

Overall, this is a fantastic collection.  All the colors flowed perfectly with my skin tone which made it easy to love the entire collection.  The formula was smooth like butter which made this collection a dream to apply.  All my swatches were done with two coats.

Check out all the swatches below.      

Harley - a mid tone gray with flecks of goldish bronze shimmmer that tops my favorite from the twist collection. 

 Jo - a mix between periwinkle and cornflower with silver shimmer that top's my second favorite.. 

 

 Mailia - a gorgeous lilac creme that looks great on both tips and toes.

Barbie's name couldn't be anymore fitting.  A barbie pink with subtle shimmer that's not very noticeable.  In my swatch above, you can notice the subtle shimmer on the bottle.

Cassie is a mix between a peach and coral with gold shimmer. 

Moxie is a great shade that you can wear all year round. Described as a deep berry creme.

The twist collection is now available at Art of Beauty and retails for $36.00. 

FEATURED - Wednesday, February 11th 2009

Spring 09 Collection: Sephora by OPI Swatches

Spring is in the air and Sephora introduces six new vibrant OPI shades to kick off the season just right.  Sephora's OPI Digital Diva is a varitey of pinks and orange for Spring and pops of coral and yellow as we enter the summer season.

Overall, this is a nice collection of Spring and Summer polishes especially if your looking for bolts of color to add to your Spring wardrobe. Most shades applied within two or three coats with no true application problems. 

Check out the swatches below.

 

  

IM Beauty is a bright soft buttercup yellow creme that was a little finicky when applying, but no huge application problems.  This is the only color out of the collection that I had to apply thicker to avoid any streaking issues.

IM Beauty is the perfect shade of yellow that's not too bold nor to bland.   

Hi Def - a rich vibrant tangerine creme.

Lost without my GPS is one shade darker than I'm wired with added red undertones.  Described as a coral red ceam.

 Access 24/7 is a juicy magneta pink creme.

Techno Girl is a pink barbie creme.

 I'm Wired is described as a true coral creme with subtle red undertones.

Sephora by OPI's Digital Diva collection is now available only at Sephora and retails for $9.00 each.

Want more Sephora by OPI? Check out the Summer 09', Mermaid in the Shade Collection. 

FEATURED - Friday, February 13th 2009

Spring 09: MAC Hello Kitty Nail Swatches

Hello Kitty has arrived and MAC introduces two new lovely nail lacquers and one repromote to the Spring collection.  If the mixture of pink, gray and white doesn't catch your attention, the heavenly bottles with the hello kitty signature logo surely will.

First off, I'm super excited that MAC when out on a limb for us nail polish addicts to match the Hello Kitty line with the nail polish bottles.  Bravo, Bravo!  The bottles will have you at Hello!

All the polishes were exceptionally pigmented and only needed two coats on most colors with the exception of Vestral White.  You may need three coats to even out everything.

What I wasn't thrilled about is Something about Pink's brush.  It looks like MAC may be testing out the water with this new brush or I just received a defective batch.

Something about Pink's brush is slightly angled and tapered kinda like SH's Insta-dri (see pic below).  Immediately, I noticed brush differences when I was swatching the colors.  Thumbs down on the funky brush.

Check out the swatches below. 

Vestral White can be described as a french white that was opaque in two coats, but needed three to even out the streaks.

Pretty, but not a must have if you want to skip.  It's just your typical french white shade. 

On the Prowl, a must have color from the Hello Kitty collection.  The perfect mid tone gray creme that you'll want to sport around this spring and summer.  Her twin sister isn't as cute, but definitely worth checking out.

Gray's are on the rise big time, this is definitely worth picking up.

 

Something about Pink was the only polish that had an angled tapered brush that I found difficult to navigate on my nails.  Described as a girly vibrant hot pink that fit in perfectly with the Hello Kitty theme.  

Here's a picture comparison of On the Prowl and Something about Pink.  There could be two problems with this picture.

Number one, the most obvious, MAC produced a bad batch of polishes with defective brushes.  If you ordered from the site (which i did), you may be getting a defective brush like mine.  Secondly, they may be switching over all their brushes.  And, let's just hope it's not that. 

The Hello Kitty polishes sold out rather quickly online, but you can still find them at Nordstrom, Macy's and MAC freestanding stores which retail for $11.00/ea.  Don't wait a minute if you have any interest in Hello Kitty.  They will go super fast!

Want more Hello Kitty?  Check out all the makeup swtaches or my black and hot pink polka dot mani for this release. 

FEATURED - Saturday, February 14th 2009

My Hello Kitty Mani: Hot Pink Polka Dots

Happy Valentines day everyone!  Hope your having a fabulous day on this Saturday.  Today I'm posting my Hello Kitty manicure that I sported last Thursday for the MAC event.

I'm really impressed how the hot pink polka dots on black turned out.  It was a big hit at the party and fit in perfectly with the whole HK girly theme.

Pictured above is MAC's Hello Kitty bracelet available online.    

What I used: Two coats of Wet n Wild black creme nail polish sealed with SV fast dry topcoat and two applications of SH nail art pen in Hot pink sealed with an additional topcoat.  

I was totally going to do a Valentines day post with the Maybelline and Nicole hearts, but my patience ran thin dealing with the little critters.  One word, P - A - I - N in the you know what!

Have a great night ya'll, be safe!

FEATURED - Sunday, February 15th 2009

Spring 09: Misa Living on the Fast Lane

Hold on tight, buckle up and be prepared to go on the ride of your life as you enter Misa's Living on the fast lane collection. If color is what you crave this spring, it's time to hop on board the Misa train and be indulged with six fabulous shades to start out the season right.

Hook, line and sinker - Misa totally nailed this collection.  Living in the fast lane offers bold pops of colors that's a refreshing twist to the traditional Spring colors.

Misa thought outside of the box for this collection and I'm digging it.  Hands down, the formula is superb.  Honestly, I couldn't ask for a better application.  Since the shades are packed with color, you'll only need to two coats to achieve bottle color.

Check out the swatches below. 

Dirty, Sexy, Money is truely the bread winner of the family.  Described as a dirty turquoise green that's a must have in my book.  Totally unique, you won't find a color like it.

Right here now, no more later is a bright blue in sunlight and more toned down in natural. 

Stop Rewinding, Just Fast Forward is described as a coral red.

Speed of Life is a bright sun kissed orange but not quite neon.

Push Upon It is a deep pink raspberry creme.

On the Edge is stunning.  There was something about this blue with hints of periwinkle I just loved.

Misa's living in the fast lane is now available at Head2toe, Transdesign and Misa.

FEATURED - Tuesday, February 17th 2009

Spring 09: Orly Carnivale Collection Swatches

Orly introduces two collections this spring, Carnivale and Prepster.  Carnivale is a release inspired by the vibrance and energy of Brazil's colorful Carnivale festival.

Six new shades debut in the Carnivale collection. Bold pops of Fuschia, purple and orange for us craving some color and peach and pinks for those to tame it down.

Overall, this is a nice mixture of brights and lights to the Spring edition.  Maybe not the most unqiue, but certainly pretty.

I found most shades to be pretty sheer.  All my swatches were done with three coats including the lighter colors.  No problems with the formulas.

Check out all the pictures below. 

Confetti is a light pink french creme that's a great everyday shade.  I usually don't line pink french colors, but confetti just popped with my skintone.     

Bongo Beat, the only shimmer from the Carinvale collection, a light pink with blueish purple iridescent shimmer. 

Festival Lights is a nice light peach shade that looks good with all skintones.

 Chica Boom is a great color to sport around this summer, a bright orange tangerine creme.

 

Samba - a magenta pink creme.  

Rio Nights was my favorite from this collection.  It's a perfect shade of purple that's not too light nor to dark.  A great color for those tootsies too!

Orly's Carnivale collection is now available Head2Toe, Sallys and other retailers.

FEATURED - Sunday, February 22nd 2009

Essie Spring 09 Collection Swatches

Essie Springs foward this season introducing six new shades.  A mixture of mostly reds, pinks, nudes and blue sure to please a craving or two.

Overall, this is a collection of safe colors.  If your looking for professional shades you can sport day to day to work, this is a great varitey for your spring wardrobe.  For the nail addicts (like myself), you'll probably find the Spring release to be a bit boring and bland.

Mesmerize is a bold pop of Blue that I suggest everyone grabs.  A great color that looks fab on any skintone.

All my swatches were done with two applications.  On the lighter colors, you'll need a firm three coats with most.  I applied mine rather thick to achieve two coats.

Check out the swatches below. 

Flawless is a muted mauvey pink creme that's really starting to grow on me.  At first, I wasn't sure about this shade because it's different from most pinks I own.

 

As much as I wanted to love this perfect shade of nude pink creme, Eternal Optimist seemed to clash with my olive skin tone.  Although, I'll probably keep her around because this is an awesome color for the office.

Status Symbol is a vibrant medium toned pink that comes in as my second fave.  A great summer shade for mani's and pedi's.

Be Mesmerized with this vibrant shade of blue from Essie.  A medium blue with hints of periwinkle.  A definite must have from Essie's Spring collection.

On to my two least favorites from Essie's Spring collecton.  One of a Kind is a red with orange that's similar to Lacquered Up with the exception of orange undertones. 

 

Lacquered up is a true cherry red creme.

The Spring collection is now available at Head2Toe & Tansdesign and retails between $4.00-$8.00.

FEATURED - Tuesday, February 24th 2009

Spring 09: Color Club Femme Fatale

Color Club Springs forward this season with two new collections, Femme Fatale and Catwalk Queen.  Each release consists of six new shades of holographic and pearlized textures.  First up is the Femme Fatale collection.

Ooh, la, la...Femme Fatale is a mysterious women of great seductive charm that lives life dangerously.  

Color Club gave us all a reason to look forward to spring by introducing new Holoographic shades to the line!  And, what gal doesn't love sport around holo's.

Check out all the swatches below.

Worth the Risque is a silver holographic shade that applied perfectly in two coats.  Wow, gorgeous, speechless!  The pictures pretty much justify the gorgeousness of this stunner.

As you can see in the photo comparisons that Worth the Risque texture is completely different from Diamond and OMG.  A def must have! 

Revvvolution is a black hologrpahic shade that applied perfectly in two coats.  Another break-taking shade.  Wow, amazing!

Revvvolution's coverage is just amazing compared to OPI's MPJ. 

Oui Oui Oui is a sheer white pearlized iridescent that has greenish shimmer that needs three full coats to achieve the bottle color.

 

Femme Fatale is a clear base loaded with pinkish shimmer.

 

Ooooo La La is a white pearl that needs a good three coats for bottle color.  My swatches could have used an additional coat to even out everything.

Where's the Soiree, the outcast of the group, is a black creme that dried watery to a satin like finish.

The Femme Fatale collection is now available at Head2toe and retails for $2.50/ea. 

FEATURED - Sunday, March 1st 2009

Stephs Closet Goes Green For March

 

This month, I'm giving tribute to all my green lovers out there by featuring my notd posts filled with lots of green nail candy.  Besides purple, green is my ultimate favorite color and what better way to celebrate this March.

Just a little over a year ago, you wouldn't find many green shades in my collection.  Infact, many grocery stores only carried one or two selections, if that.  Now, green is becoming an obsessive addiction amoungst nail polish addicts (like myself), beauty lovers or just some of us looking to be a little more eco-conscious.

I'm starting with two new polishes (to me) that I picked up a few days ago at the Mall.  These shouldn't be to hard to track down since I just snatched them up.

Icing's new spring color, Awkward ($4.50) is a vibrant green loaded with green and sublte light blue shimmer.  Wow, this color is absolutely stunning.

Check out some comparisons below.

Awkward's pigmentation is outstanding compared to Rainforest which is on the semi-sheer side.  Two coats of Awkward equals three coats of Rainforest.

 

L.A. Girls Flair nail color in Green is such a unique shade that I don't have another like her.  Described as a forest creme with teal undertones.

It's hard to tell by my swatches, but this is definitely green and not more tealish.  I love this one so much!

The formula was thick and pigmented like crazy.  In all honestly, you'd only need one coat of green.  My application was perfect and the wear lasted a good three days until I removed it.

Here's a comparison just to give you an idea where L.A. Girls green falls. 

You can find L.A. Girls Flair at Urban Outfitters and Forever 21 stores which retails between $2.50 - $4.00.  At forever 21 they were on clearance for $2.50.  Hope your having a fabulous Sunday!

FEATURED - Wednesday, March 4th 2009

Shades by Barielle Sugar Rush Collection

Get your sugar fix on this summer with Shades by Barielle.  The Sugar Rush collection introduces six new vibrant shades sure to please your sweet tooth cravings.

Talkin' about sweet nail candy!  A selection of scrumptious shades that look so good, you'd wish they were edible.

After seeing the first installment of Summer collections from China Glaze, Barielle had some high expections to live up to.  And, I'm happy to report they totally nailed it.

Everything about summer rocks.  Bright, bold pops of color, color and more color!  Most of the shades applied perfectly in two coats with the exception of Lemondrops and Cotton Candy.

Must have's: (wow, this is hard because I loved them all) Sweet Addiction, Lemondrops (if your a yellow lover), Swizzle Stick, Decadance.

What I loved about this collection - No Reds!

Check out all the swatches below.  

Lemondrops is a bright yellow creme that's perfect for tootsies in the summertime.  A close comparison is Rescue Beauty Lounge's, Yellow Fever minus the shimmer.

Decadance is a shimmery turquoise blue that's gorgeous.

Stop the press - who's that?!  Sweet Addicition totally rocks my world you guys.  Described as a unique slice of minty green goodness.   This shade is spectacular and looks even better on.  Can't wait to sport Sweet Addiction on my toes with a tan.  Totally Hot!

Check out the close comparison below. 

 

The comparison may look like close to a dupe, but I assure you both are quite different and equally beautiful.

 Grape Escape is a vibrant Barney purple creme.  Can't say no to purple!

Cotton Candy is just as you would imagine.  A semi sheer pink with hot pink shimmer. 

Swizzle Stick is a soft baby blue creme that's not as vibrant as pictured above.  For some reason, I just couldn't capture the actual color representation.

The Sugar Rush collection is now available online at Barielle and/or CVS which retails for $7.99.  Barielle usually runs online specials for buy 2 nail polishes, get one free ($16 for 3).

Note: I have yet to see any Barielle's at my local CVS's and believe me I've been to several.        

Here's a little slideshow of my picture swatches from Barielle's Sugar Rush collection.

FEATURED - Monday, March 9th 2009

Spring 09: Orly Prepster Collection Swatches

The Prepster collection from Orly is the second edition to the Spring 09' round up.  In the Carnivale Collection, we saw bright pops of orange, purple and pink. This collection is the soft side of spring that offers six nex shades ranging from pastel pink, blue and nudes.

It's time to get your tennis rackets and polo sticks out while you get ready for Orly's Prepster spring collection.  A mixture of shades you'll see at the country club or on the tennis courts with names like Cashmere Cardigan, Polo Princess and Prim & Proper.

Some must haves: Cashmere Cardigan, Polo Princess and Country Club Khaki.

Check out all the swatches below.