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Green

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 11th 2007

Brad Pitt: An Angel To The Rescue

Brad Pitt reveals the next phase of the Katrina Green project.  He donates a generous $5 million dollars of his personal money for  150 eco-friendly and flood proof homes to replace those destroyed in Katrina.

Brad Pitt accoompanied by serveral architects revealed the ground breaking designs.  He urges Americans to donate this holiday season.  Many, still homeless in New Orleans.  So, Sad.

God Bless Brad Pitt!  If only all the celebrites followed in his tracks.

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 26th 2007

Mac Cosmetics: Authentics Collection

 

MAC Cosmetics introduces Authentics.  You invented sexy, you created cool. Bring out what's authentic in you with this chic collection of colours and textures - neutral beige with pink pearl, moss green, blackberry and deep coral - because real style never fades.

A limited edition Face Palette specially created to compliment the shades and authentic all MAC spirit of our Originals collection. Features a Powder Blush, three Eye Shadows and 213 SE Brush.  US $34.00.  This exclusive Face Palette is only available at Macy's and other federated department stores December 26, 2007.

I wasn't all that crazy about this MAC collection, but, since I received a Macy's gift card from Christmas, I couldn't resist to spend it on a MAC product.  The deep coral peach blush is one thing I am looking forward to seeing in person.

Check out my review and swatches for MAC Authentics Face Palette.

FEATURED - Monday, January 7th 2008

MAC Cosmetics Authentics Review and Swatches

The Above is an actual picture of the MAC Authentics Face Palette that I took this morning (I felt like being creative today)!  At first, I really wasn't thrilled about this collection.  I only ordered this because I was given a Macy's gift card for Christmas.  I have to say, I am pretty excited I did.

The very first thing that caught my eye on this palette was the blush color.  It is a very peachy to deep coral color that will look gorgeous for Spring and Summer.  So, I am quite pleased with the blush.  Blackberry is one of MAC's standard eye shadow colors.  A purplish-brownish color, perfect for crease lines.  The Moss Spot is a gorgeous moss greenish-yellow shadow that looks beautiful with green eyes espically.  Total Bliss is my favorite out of the bunch.  It is a light neutral beige with pink reflects, which is great for a highlighter also.  I am pleased with all the eye shadow colors.  Although, I don't think I would wear them all together at once.  But, don't knock it until you tried it, right?  So, I will be trying the look soon.  Another reason I like this palette so much is, you can toss it in your purse, pocket, back-pack,  and have a blush, eyeshadow (s), highlighter, and 213 SE brush.  It is perfect for those stay overs and for quick, on-the-go touch-ups.

I used two different kinds of bases on these eye shadow swatches.  The top set is used with MAC Paint in Sublime Nature, which is more of a matte based texture.  The Bottom set is used with MAC Paint Pot, Bare Study, a shimmery paint.  Overall, I think the matte paint had more color payoff and a slight shimmer to it, which was perfect.

On the Blush, I did not use any base underneath.  I absolutely love this peach coral color.  It looks great on darker skin tones as well as lighter skin tones.  Remember, this is an exclusive, limited edition palette, and only available at Macy's and other fine federated department stores.  This is not available at any of the MAC Stores or online.  If you are somewhat on the fence about this, I would go ahead and purchase it.   You can't go wrong with this face palette.  Your getting: 1 Blush, 3 eyeshadows, compact mirror, 213 MAC eye brush, all for $34.00.  Would you buy this palette?

FEATURED - Thursday, January 17th 2008

China Glaze: OMG Collection So Hot

All you nail polish lovers out there, your going to love this OMG collection!  China Glaze introduces OMG Collection for spring 2008, A holographic nail polish collection.  OMG, were indeed the words when my jaw dropped evisioning these gorgeous colours marinating my nails as I text a million words on my Blackberry.  This campaign is focused around looking kewl while your texting.  Notice all the nail polish names relates to instant messaging or texts abbrevations.  Can you identify everyone?  

I happened to see this collection about a week ago, and my oh my.  I must say the colors are gorgeous!  I espically love DV8, A teal colored polish.  MAC lovers, if you love the infamous Parrot eye shadow, then this is a must have color for you!  Blue, Teals, Greens, I see a trend coming.  These are going to be huge colors for the spring and summer!

I imagine China Glaze to release this collection to retailers around January 19th.  I pre-ordered the complete 2BKEWL set, which I loved every single color.  I don't expect to receive them for a week or so.  Keep your eye out for them!  I have a feeling these will go fast. 

Stay tuned for my review and swatches.

{Photo via: China Glaze}

FEATURED - Wednesday, January 30th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Fafi Collection Color Story

These pictures clearly speak for themselves!  WOW, was my first expression when seeing these product photos back in December of 2007.   There is always one or two collections that will be a huge hit, and this is going to be one of them!  I'd never thought any collection could top Barbie loves MAC, but, I may be wrong!  So many things I'm looking forward to seeing in these collection.  Paint Pots, Blush, Eye Shadow Palette's, Nail Polish, Lipstick, Lipglass, Fafi Doll's (not pictured but, will sell out super duper fast), and the cosmetics bags.  Which, pretty much sums up the whole collection!  Last year, around the same time as Barbie love MAC was released, the Barbie Dolls sold-out instantly, and were going for $400+ on ebay. 

Fafi, a french Graffiti and Fine Art Graphic Artist, who is known for her images of sexy and liberated girls.  Her drawling and graffiti's are absolutely amazing!  If you've never seen any of her Drawling's or Graffiti's, click here to check them out.

Now, on to business!  This rare, limited edition collection, officially releases on February 13th, 2008.  Be sure to keep up-to-date on the Fafi Collection in your area, by signing up on the MAC website.  Check out the amazing color story below, that leaves me drooling at my desk.

Lipstick
Fun ‘n’ Sexy Blue pink with blue pearl (G)
Not so Innocent Sheer tan with pink and peach pearl (G)
Utterly Frivolous Rosy coral with pink pearl (L)
High Top Grey purple with blue pearl (G)
Flash-n-Dash Intense tangerine red with pink pearl (G)
Strawbaby Coral rose with rainbow pearl (L)

Lipglass
Cult Face Blue mid-tone pink with white pearl (F)
Sugar Trance Creamy soft pink with white and rainbow pearl (F)
Squeeze It Brassy plum (F)
Totally It Sheer bright pink with intense pink pearl (F)

Eye Shadow  Quad's (x4)  Fafi Eyes 1
Howzat Deep grey with silver sparkle (S)
Hey Neutral tan with pearl (VP)
Pink Venus Washed pink (L)
Vanilla Soft pale-peachy-ivory flecked with shimmer (V)

Fafi Eyes 2
Bold as Gold Yellow gold with gold pearl (L)
You’re Fresh Pale green with silver sparkle (L)
Shockwave Intense orange with silver sparkle (V)
Prankster Muted dark blue (S)

Paint Pot
Nice Vice Dirty purple with purple pearl (F)
Girl Friendly Creamy grey pink (C)
Layin’ Low Creamy beige (C)
Cash Flow Green gold with gold pearl (F)
Perky Cream coral with white pearl (S)
Rollickin’ Aqua blue green with white pearl (F)

Fluidline
Blacktrack Solid flat black

Eye Kohl
Smolder Intense black
Fascinating Snake-eyes matte white

Zoom Lash
Zoomblack Rich black

Powder Blush
Hipness Intense coral with soft white pearl
Fashion Frenzy Mid-tone blue pink

Iridescent Pressed Powder
Sassed-up Soft coral pink with gold sparkle
Verve-acaious Intense yellow gold with gold pearl
Belightful Gilded peach bronze

Nail Lacquer
Girls Will Be Girls Pink with coral pearl
Boom! Rich eggplant with purple pearl

Brushes
210 Precise Eye Liner.
129SH Powder/Blush (with decorated pouch).
208 Angled Brow Brush.
182 Buffer Large Brush.

Bags
Rectangle M.A.C/Small/Clearly Fafi
Rectangle M.A.C/Mini/Clearly Fafi

Fafi Dolls
Fafinette

{Source via: Specktra}

FEATURED - Saturday, February 9th 2008

Video: Fafi For MAC Press Event

Check out MAC's press event for the Fafi collection releasing nationwide on February 13th.  This video features real life Fafinettes!  The fafinette in the green with the red hair known as Eriko, is so adorable!  TREND ALERT: Fafi arm warmers and leg warmers!  Hey, you never know?!  I would certainly buy them!

Sunday, February 10th 2008

Chanel Summer 2008 Makeup: Product Photos

Another collection?  That's right, it's not even Spring yet!  Doesn't it seem like Chanel is always the first ones to release their collections early?  I love summer and I sure am loving this limited edition eyeshadow quad and their two new nail polishes!  

Stay tuned as I will post the color story.  I'm waiting for Chanel to verify the limited edition items.  Hopefully, I will have that up today.  This collection is set to release sometime in March.  

I do know that this eyeshadow quad is a limited edition item.  This colors in this quad is absolutely stunning.  A bright pink, peach, light green, and bronze.  Two new limited edition nail colors are also introduced in this collection.  Flamingo, a bright pink and Antilope, a golden brown.  Oh boy, I can't wait to see these nail colors.

Read the Color Story for the Chanel's 2008 summer makeup collection and take a sneak peak at the Fall 2008 Golden Child Color Story. 

Check out my reviews and photo swatches for the Chanel 2008 Summer Makeup 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.

FEATURED - Wednesday, February 27th 2008

MAC Cosmetics Fafi: Review and Swatches Part Two

Eye Shadow Quads. I purchased both of these eye shadow quads.  I honestly, did not expect to like Quad 2, but, that ended up being my favorite.

Quad 1.  Vanilla, a white color witha a velvet finish, that is good for highlighting.  Hey Neutral, a shimmery tan color, that is very pretty nude color.  Pink Venus, bright pink frosted color, that has great color payoff and texture.  Howzat, a dark gray-ish black color, good for crease lines.  

Quad 2.  Bold as Gold, a gorgeous shade of shimmery yellow-gold.  I really loved this color, perfect amout of shimmer that isn't over powering.  Shockwave, more of a shimmery tangerine color, that isn't as bright as it looks.  You're Fresh, as it looks green in the quad, it's quite sheer.  More of a greenish-yellowish shimmer.  Prankster, it may look navy blue, but, comes out more dark blue-blackish.

If you tend to play it safe, I would go for the Quad 1. If you are daring enough, I would definitely recommend purchasing Quad 2.  The colors may look funky, but, appear more sheerer than they actually look.

Paint Pots.  I absolutely love MAC's paint pots.  I purchased Cash Flow, and Perky.  I am planning to pick up Rollickin soon.  My favorite by far is Perky.

Perky, a coral-peach shimmer color, that is truely gorgeous, and the color pay-off is great.  This is a must have base for Quad 2.  Cash Flow, a goldish-brownish color, that is great with browns and neutral colors.  Rollickin, a tealish shimmery color, that looks great espically paired up with Parrot eyeshadow.  Nice Vice, a purplish brownish color, that was way too dark and purplish for my skintone (NC25).  Layin Low, a creamy flat brown beige color.  Girl Friendly, a very flat pink color.

 

 

Powder Blushes.   The powder blushes were something I didn't even look at twice until I saw in person.  They may appear "very bright" in their Fafi cases, but, that is not the case whatsoever.  The blushes have very  "build-able color".  I initially only purchased Hipness but, later purchased Fashion Frenzy.  It's really hard to choose between the two, because they are both equally beautiful.  

Fashion Frenzy, a medium cool pink matte color that is very buildable.  Just be careful with the blush brush, you can easily get outta control  with the blushes, which might reflect the brightness of the color.  Fashion Frenzy looks great with Quad 1, Sexy n Fun lipstick paired up with Totally It lipglass.  Hipness, a warm peach matte color with a small hint of pink.  Hipness looks great with Quad 2, Strawbaby lipstick, paired up with Sugar Trance lipglass.

Iridescent Mineralized Powders.  These powders are just gorgeous, and by far the best out of the Fafi collection.  If you love to sparkle and shine, then these powders are for you.  Unfortanetly, I could not get a good picture to justify the beauties of these powders with them being so sheer.  I purchased Verve-vacious, more of a golden bronzed color. 

Verve-vacious, a goldish bronzed powder with several pigmented gold flecks.  This is gorgeous, and can be used as a bronzing powder for summer also.  Sassed-Up, a soft golden peach-pinkish color.  I believe this color will be more appealing for everyone and the most popular.  Sassed-up is another one I would like to purchase, only if my bank account wasn't depleted by Fafi!  Belightful, a cooler brownish powder with gold specks.  Verve-vacious and Belightful were very similar in colors.  I opt for Verve-vacious because it's more becoming, and it's a limited edition color.

Nail Lacquer.  I purchased both of these colors, because I'm a nail polish freak!  However, I do think Girls will be Girl is more appealing than Boom.  Girls Will Be Girls, a pink with a specks of gold that makes it somewhat coral-ish.  The coral color is not very noticable to the naked eye.  If you prefer the sheerness, you will only need two coats.  However, In the picture above, I had to use 3 coats to cover my nail completely.  Boom, a burgandy color with specks of pink shimmer.  This metallic like color is very pretty, and looks great on nails.

Overall, Fafi is truely a great collection.  It offers alot of bright pink/corals, girly colors that are going to be "it" colors for spring/summer 2008.  Definite stand out items: Strawbaby and Fun n Sexy Lipstick, Sugar Trance and Totally It lipglass, Perky Paint Pot, and Sassed-Up mineralized powder.  The only items that are sold out nationwide is Fun n Sexy and Strawbaby lipstick.  But, they may still be available at your local MAC Store.

FEATURED - Wednesday, February 27th 2008

Dior: Limited Edition Poison Blue Nail Polish

Do you think the blue nail polish trend is too passe?  Well, think again!  This popular nail polish trend is just beginning and it's here to stay folks!  I suspect that this trend is going to stick around for quite sometime, and into fall of 2008.

Get ready Chanel and OPI, we have another contender knocking on your door.  What is it?  Poison Blue, a nail polish shade inspired by the legendary Dior Midnight Poison fragrance.  Available for the first time in the US, and exclusively only at Sephora.  Prior to the US release, this was only available in Europe.

Dior Vernis Long-wearing Nail Lacquer is drama at your fingertips! This spring, Dior takes nails to new levels of intensity by introducing Poison Blue, a deep midnight blue nail polish in a silky smooth formula for long-lasting, glossy nails. Only by Dior and only at Sephora.com.  $19.00 USD.

Is there really a difference?  Of course there's a difference!  The main different I notice, the formula doesn't have much shimmer which makes this polished and perfected.  Poison Blue is a very high gloss, and very sophisicated nail polish look.  I really like the polished look of Dior Blue Poision.  This is a great look not only for Spring, but, for Fall 2008. 

Love the blue nail polish trend?  Don't worry, it's going to be here for a while!  Be on the look-out for some gorgeous Blue's and Green colors to arrive now throughout fall of 2008.  This color is very much appropriate to wear through summer and fall!  Have fun with it!

Our next appearence of blue nail polish comes from Nars.  Nars is releasing a blue nail polish for Spring 2008. Midnight Express, described as navy blue.  Stay tuned for more information.

Check out the review and photo swatch for Dior Vernis Bleu Poison.

FEATURED - Wednesday, March 5th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Strobe Collection

MAC Cosmetics introduces the Strobe collection.  Three enlightened ways to brighten your look: Strobe Cream, our original blend of sheer soft-focus diffusers; Strobe Liquid, instant radiance in fluid, light-diffusion form; and for lips, Tinted Lip Conditioner Stick SPF 15 with strobe pearl.

Stobe Liquid.  Blending soft-focus diffusers with iridescent pigments, this ultra-fluid strobe formula produces a soft, radiant light on the skin, reducing the appearance of skin imperfections by providing a natural-looking glow. Refreshing. Spreads on smoothly and absorbs quickly. Leaves the skin looking healthier and more radiant. A lighter-weight addition to the popular Strobe Cream. 50 ml / 1.7 us oz. US $29.50.

Strobe Cream.  The ultimate quick fix for the skin. Super-powered with potent botanicals; de-snoozes, de-stresses, moistens, freshens and boosts the look of dull, flat or tired-looking skin with a fully loaded vitamin zap and a mega dose of green tea. Brightens and clarifies with iridescent particles and antioxidants. Enhances the effects of light on all skin and in all lighting conditions from sunlight to spotlight. 50 ml / 1.7 us oz. US $29.50.

Tinted Lip Conditioner Stick SPF 15.  Formulated with strobe pearl, this luxurious lip conditioner combines sheer soft-light-quenched colour with broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 protection and moisture.  US$14.50.  Check out the product color swatches below.

The only thing that looks appealing to me in this collection is the tinted lip conditioners with SPF 15.  But, at $14.50 a pop, that's a pretty hefty price tag for just a lip balm.  Although, this would be a excellent product for the pool or beach this summer. 

Check out my review and swatches on the lip conditioner.

FEATURED - Wednesday, March 5th 2008

China Glaze: Ecollection for Spring

China Glaze is going eco-friendly for spring! China Glaze introduces a second collection for spring 2008.  ecollection, to preserve the beauty of our world's colors, tread lightly and leave only footprints. In Blahniks or Birkenstocks, going green is always fashionable. 

The ecollection colors is based around earth, sand, sun, water, clouds and trees.  This collection is very much different from the previous spring release, OMG collection.  I love how this collection is focused around more "earthy colors".  Check out the color swatches and display photos below.

 

It's really hard to judge the color by these photo swatches.  The colors that I'm interested in seeing are: Recycle, Unplugged, Hybrid and Shower Together.  Tree Hugger and Solar Power will be interesting to see on.  These are colors I normally wouldn't go for, but, we'll see, you never know.  The ecollection is now available at Head to 2 Beauty and other China Glaze retailers.

Check out the reviews and swatches on this Eco-friendly ecollection.

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 - Friday, April 18th 2008

Chanel Strikes Gold For Fall 2008

Chanel strikes gold for their 2008 fall collection Peter Phillips, a new creative director for Chanel's makeup line.  The collection will be released in July followed by Philips’ holiday collection, due for October, which will continue the gold rush theme.

The collection, due in to hit counters in July, which includes Gold Fiction, a softly shimmering nail polish, $30 (yikes); Facettes D’Or, a finely milled gold loose powder that reads on the skin as a subtle glow, $56; Gold Light Glossimer lip gloss, $26 (oh la la); Rouge Hydrabase lipstick shades in copper, plum and coral (yum another coral), each $27, and a quad eye shadow palette with gold, coffee, ivory and dark green eye colors, $56.

Looks like Chanel is hyping this Gold Fiction nail polish to be the next Black Satin or Blue Satin!  While Chanel’s nail polishes usually retail in the $19 range, Gold Fiction will retail for $30. “We’ve used high-end pigments to get the color and finish just right, and the outer bottle is also done in an [opaque] gold case.”  This is going to be a limited edition color but, may become permanent depending on it's popularity.

Chanel will reprise — and amplify — gold in its holiday color collection, due out in October, with Poudre Precieuse Or, a gold highlighting powder that will retail for $75; Gold Shine, a gold Glossimer lip shade, $26; Noir Scintillant, a black eyeliner with gold sparkle, $28, and Haute Chocolate, a gold brown nail shade, $20.

And, I thought $19 was expensive for nail polish, hola cow, $30 bucks!  Chanel keeps going up, up and away! I just don't know if I can justify $30 bucks a bottle.  It's really hard to judge by the promo pictures, so we'll have to wait and see the color swatches.  Stay tuned.

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

{Source: WWD}

FEATURED - Tuesday, April 22nd 2008

Nail Polish Love: Dior's Golden Nugget

While browsing through Dior's Gold Rush Summer Collection, many things caught my eye, but, one specific, Gold Nugget 708 Nail Polish.  I automatically reached for it to swatch, and it was just gorgeous.  Not like any bronze color I own.  It's really hard to describe this color because it's so unique.  It's a bronze nail color, with tons of gold shimmer which makes this an olive green bronze in some lights.  So, I rushed home and pulled out all my gold and bronze polishes, and I couldn't find one to compare.  Check out the swatch below.

Dior released two limited edition nail colors in their Gold Rush summer collection. 

Coppery Ginger 668, $19.00, described as a light metallic copper shade.  The texture reminded me of Chanel's Antilope nail polish, but was more copper toned.  I really didn't care for this one because it wasn't as unique as Gold Nugget. 

Gold Nugget 708, $19.00, described as a bronze golden nail polish with gold shimmer which gives the appearence of olive green bronze in some lights.  This color is semi-sheer, but you certainly can get good coverage with two coats, three coats you are golden!

Dior's nail polish formula's are excellent.  Long lasting, and no chipping and I honestly have to say it's much better than Chanel.  I think this color will appeal more to the warmer tones. My theory,  anyone can rock it!

Pictured to the right is a comparison of OPI Charmed by a Snake and Dior's Golden Nugget.  As you can see, there's a noticeable difference between the two colors.  OPI Charmed by s Snake is lighter sand bronze color and Dior's Gold Nugget is a Dark Bronze/Gold color, which gold shimmer creates more of a olive green bronze look.

FEATURED - Friday, April 25th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Cool Heat Collection For Summer

MAC introduces Cool Heat Collection for Summer 2008.  This collection should be arriving at stores and online around June 12, 2008 and International July 2008.  Check out the Product Images and Color Story Below.

Perfumes (Creations): $22.50 USD

• Turquatic Crisp and energizing! A splash of clear, sparkling mineral water brought to a chill through an infusion of fresh lotus leaves and Corsican cedrat, then finished with a warm blend of anemone, orris and blue cedar. (Repromote)
  
• Turquatic Heat - Turquatic heat is a warm, floral, woody fragrance, with a sultry modern sensuality. Inspired by the original turquatic scent, this new edition delivers a unique and strong personality, delivered thru a contrasting heated sweetness. (LE)

Eye Shadows: $14.00 USD

• Solar White - Frosted muted white-gold ((Frost) (LE)
• Warming Trend - Frosty light taupe (Veluxe Pearl) (LE)
• Warm Chill - Frosty seafoam green with gold pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Gulf Stream - Frosty mid-tone blue-green with green pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Cool Heat - Frosty teal with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• Climate Blue- Midtone violet-blue with pink pearlized pigments (Velvet) (LE)
• Blue Flame - Metallic navy-blue (Veluxe Pearl) (LE)

Slimshines: $14.00  USD

• Tropic Glow - Blue-pink with silver pearlized pigments (Frost) (LE)
• By Degrees - Neutral brown-pink (Frost) (LE)
• Gentle Summer - Light clean yellow-pink with white pearlized pigments (Frost) (New perm shade)
• High 90s - Pink-orange (Frost) (LE)
• Swelter - Sheer red (Frost) (LE)

Cool Heat offers some stunning eyeshadow colors in this collection.  Lust haves for me are Warm Chill (a seafoam green),  Cool Heat (Frosty Teal), and Golf Stream (blue green frost).

{Source: Specktra}

FEATURED - Friday, May 2nd 2008

A Colorful Storybook to a Happy Ending

Product: Sephora Colorful Story Palette

Price: $35.00   (an $80.00 value)

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora, Limited Edition

Recommend: Yes

Nobody can tell a colorful story like Sephora!  Sephora introduces a limited edition palette feauting 16 of their best selling eye shadow colors.

This is such an fantastic deal!  I originally only purchased this because I needed an item for free shipping!  Sephora always gets ya with that free shipping!  I was automatically drawn to this colorful storybook palette.  But, hesitated for a minute because I've never tried Sephora's eyeshadows.  I knew it couldn't be too bad because they are my #1 beauty authority.  Plus, this would be a perfect Mother's Day gift also.

Overall, this limited edition palette has some great colors choices.  And, is the perfect palette to travel or take on-the-go.  What's great about this palette is the colors are all seasons appropriate which makes this a fab deal!  The only drawback I had is the quality (hey, I'm a MAC girl, I have high expectations).  It is fairly good quality, that is why I rated this 4 kisses but, not the best.  I found that the shadows worked best with a good base such as Urban Decay or my personal fav MAC Paint Pots.

Check out the palette colors below.

The colors featured in this palette include: Strass 7 (charcoral black with silver glitter), 9 (taupe shimmer with gold glitter), 3 (gold shimmer with gold glitter), 2 (silver shimmer with silver glitter); Pearl 8 (champagne beige pearl), 1 (white pearl), 9 (coral pearl), 7 (soft bronze pearl); Chrome 4 (vibrant iridescent teal-turquoise sheen), 3 (brown-green iridescent sheen), 6 (pale opalescent sheen), 2 (rich plum sheen); Mat 6 (matte white), 3 (matte chocolate brown), 7 (matte deep burgundy), 1 (matte charcoal black).

Check out the photo swatches below.  The photo swatches are in the same order as displayed in the picture above.

 Wowza!!!  Chrome No. 4 is my absolute favorite out of the palette....

Chrome No. 3 is a very unique color.  A brown-green iridescent color, that tops off at my second favorite.

 A little more pictures below....

FEATURED - Friday, May 2nd 2008

Drugstore Haul: Milani, Max Factor, Lashblast

I try to stay far-away from drugstores because they can really do some major damage!  But, it was time for a visit, because there are many things I've been wanting to test and review.  So, I will be doing seperate blog entries on each product to elaborate a little more.

1.  Covergirl Lashblast - The buzz has been going around the on beauty radar about this wonder mascara.  So, it's on the top of my list to review.

2.  Nicole by OPI - I'm sure you've been seeing alot of this brand lately.  So, I've been a little curious about the formula, and staying power.  But, I'm sure it will be quality espically, if it's backed by OPI.  Plus, their free off the big 3, which is a huge plus.  I picked up the color: Nicole's Fav, a tangerine orange shimmer that is perfect for summer.  I will be posting swatches soon.

3.  Milani - Fashion Runway Eyes and color brillant eye pencils.  My Milani purchase was the hightlight of my haul.  The Fashion runways shadows come in 6 different color combinations.  I went to 4 different drugstores looking for the yellow and green combination but, everywhere was completely sold-out!  Milani also carries a Blue/Teal color combination, sold-out, just my luck!  And, I just happend to get lucky with the eyeliners, and picked up three (kelly green, teal, and violet purple).

4.  MAX Factor Vivid Impact Eyeshadow Duo -  The green and blue wand recently was seen in the Carmen Electra ad for MAX Factor.   The emerald green and blue wand was so hard to find.  The green is a fab color.  And, I was quite impressed how long the shadow stayed on without any base. 

5. Neutrogena Sunscreen - Don't forget that sunscreen!  My favorite brand is Neutrogena Ultra sheer.  It's so light, gentle, and blocks UVA/UVB rays!

I will be reviewing each product seperately.  Stay tuned for the review and swatches.

FEATURED - Friday, May 2nd 2008

OPI Summer Sneak Peek: Mod About Brights

This season, OPI goes modern with Mod About Brights, the newest selection of shades in the Brights by OPI line.

Mod About Brights captures the fun and edginess of the mod “invasion” of the Sixties, but with a bright twist that makes these colors exciting and current for 2008. And with fashion right now being all about strong color and vivid, graphic prints, these are the shades that look up-to-the-minute on fingertips and toes.

If you love color, you’ll be Mod About Brights!  Check out the colors below.

OPI adds six new colors spicy colors to the Brights Collection.  Mod about Brights collection is now available at Ball Beauty and should be available at salons and approved OPI retailers.  Don't just all of these colors just look scrumptious for summer?  Blue, Green, Yellow and Orange; OPI is right on track with the nail polish trends!

 

FEATURED - Tuesday, May 13th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Starflash Collection

MAC Cosmetics introduces the Starflash Collection for late summer.  A collection which includes a selection of Hollywood eyeshadows for that luxury tinsetown chic. They're creamy and jet milled for uber glamour and available in 12 colorful shades.  Check out the product photos and color story below.

12 new glamourus eyeshadows are introduced in this colleciton along with the Power Kohl Repromotes from the Storm Signals Collection.

Eyeshadows

Dreammaker - Frosty Yellow Gold Grand Entrance - Frosty Neutral Pink Beige Bold & Brazen - Frosty Light Copper Sunset B - Frosty Midtone Pink Lotusland- Pink Lavender with Gold Pearl Talent Pool - Blue Green with Gold Pearl Mink & Sable - Olive Green Smoke & Diamonds - Frosty Dirty Taupe Go - Frosted Bronze Glamour Check - Reddish Brown Top Hat - Dirty Indigo Star by Night - Midtone Blue

Kohl Power Eyeliners (Repromotes)

Raven - Black with Red Pearl Orpheus - Black with Gold Pearl Mystery - Black with Green Pearl Feline -  Intense Black

For one, I am just thrilled about the Kohl Power Eyeliners.  MAC has the best eyeliners hands down.  I just wish they would come out with more colors!  This collection should hit MAC stores end of July/August.  Stay tuned for more information.

a big thanks to Kiss and Makeup for this great info!

FEATURED - Wednesday, May 14th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Overrich Collection

MAC introduces Overrich Collection for late summer.  A colorful range of 8 new metallic pigments that's inspired by the new Cult of the Cherry collection.  These are filled with stunning oxidized pigments in glamorous colors.  Check out the photo swatches below. 

Pigments

Blonde's Gold - Light Tan with Gold and White pearl  Antique Green - Turquoise Green with Gold pearl  Vintage Gold - Tarnished Green with Green pearl  Museum bronze - Rich Taupe with Gold pearl Mauvemnet - (Repromote) Cool Taupe with Gold Pearl  Mega-Rich - Frosty burnt Orange with Gold pearl  Copperbeam - Rusted Brown with Red pearl  Heritage Rouge - Deep Burgundy with Red and Brown pearl

The Overrich collection should be available end of August/Sept 2008.  Stay tuned for more infomation as it become available.

Check out the review and photo swatches for this luxurious overrichness collection.

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

A big thanks to Kiss and Makeup for this great info!

FEATURED - Wednesday, May 14th 2008

Urban Outfitters Gets All Lacquered Up

Urban Outfitters gets all lacquered up!  But, in a very good way!  Models Own, is a new and edgy nail polish brand between brothers Mark and Steven Rodol.  The polishes are quick-drying, hard wearing, and they have pioneered the idea of 'quick cosmetics' to sit alongside the 'fast fashion' adage.  The colors aim to have trendy, cutting edge colors on the shelves in a matter of weeks rather than months. The trendy urban cool shades range include black, grey, green, navy and peach!

Oh, my, let's talk about these fabulicious colors, or rather drool!  Grey, Green, Blue oh my!  Almost every single color looks appealing to me.  Foremost, the neutral grey shade is so calling my name.  And, ya'll know how I feel about green and blue nail polishes!  I have been searching for a nice neutral grey, and my journey may have ended.  Let's just hope the picture displayed is true to color.  If it is, I think we have a winner!

Models Own, retailing at $9.00 each is sure to be a hit.  A nail polish that's not only wallet friendly but super trendy!  Urban Outfitters is going to be hitting us with the seasons "it" colors when production times range within weeks!

{Source: Elle}

FEATURED - Wednesday, May 21st 2008

MAC Solar Field: Review, Swatches, Product Images

 

Overall, the Solar Field Collection was very, hmm.... interesting!  Solar bits, was a little (alot) tricky to start off with.  The good ole saying "practice makes perfect" certainly applies to MAC's solar bits.  As I was swatching these little bits, I was overtaken by the beauty of the pigmentation and shimmer.  But, good looks are always deceiving as they say.  I had the pigments all over the place (shirt, face, hands, floor, everywhere) at my MAC store.  Just swatching these four colors took time.  The bits are fully pigmented and very chunky in a ball like form.  But, delivers quite the knock-out when the application is perfected.  I haven't had a chance to mess with them personally, but, I highly recommend using mixing medium or they'll be everywhere.

Bronzing Powder Refined Golden - is a light golden peach color.  This color was fairly sheer, and didn't have "as much" color pay-off.  This shade would be ideal for fair skin complexions. Solar Riche -  a mid-tone deep bronze orange color.  Solar Riche has much more pigmentation compared to Refined Golden.  This color is more ideal for darker skin tones, or can be used as a blush.

Check out some more pics below....

Solar Bits  Black Ore - is described as a rich black with gold pearl.  Initially, I was completely pulled in and dramatized by this color.  But, after dealing with the mess, I wanted a color that I could get some good use out of.  So, I passed on it for now, but, just for now.  The gold pigmentation is so rich that gives almost an dark olive green appearance.  Sunpower - is a light metallic tan with gold shimmer.  Bronzescape - is yellow brown with gold pearl.  It's a rich copper brown that has excellent color pay-off. Scatterrays - decribed as a soft metallic peach with gold pearl.

Bronzescape was the only color I purchased today.  Because, I knew that these highly condensed clusters of pigments wasn't going to be so user-friendly.  I highly recommend purchasing a neutral color that you can multi-task or until you can perfect the application.  Scatterrays and Sunpower were very similar in color due to the gold pigmentation.  Sunpower is more gold and Scatterrays has more of a white color pay-off. 

Check out MAC's Neo Sci Fi Review, Swatches, and Product Photo's.

FEATURED - Thursday, May 29th 2008

MAC Colour Form: Color Story, Promo Images

Nordstrom introduces MAC Colour Form as their Anniversary collection this year.  This collection will be available on July 18th, 2008.  Only available at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com.  Check out all the promo images below courtesy of Bjooti.net.

Eyeshadow Palettes:

5 Warm Eyes (LE) $38.00 USD Fertile - blackened brown (S) Chillproof - Frosty creamy white (F) Tancentic - Frosty beige pink (VP) Rolled Gold - Frosty golden olive (L) Rustic - Frosted copper red (VP) 213 SE Application Brush

5 Cool Eyes (LE) $38.00 USD Radial Pink - Frosty white pink (V) Brown Border - Frosty plum(VP) Spot Colour - Mid-tone blue purple w/ white pearlized pigments (L) Blue Spill - Mid-tone cornflower blue w/ gold pearlized pigments (F) Slate- Smoke grey (S) 213 SE Application Brush

Lip Palettes:

Cool Lips (LE) $22.50 USD Miss Rose Lipstick - Creamy mid-tone blue pink (L) Cassis Royale Lipstick - Sheer mid-tone plum (L) Virginity Lipglass - Sheer mid-tone pink w/ pink pearlized pigments 316 SE Application Brush

Warm Lips (LE) $22.50 USD Fresh and Fun - Creamy neutral coral (F) Oh Garnet - Creamy mid-tone red (A) (Repromote) Flash of Flesh - Sheer peach pink w/ multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (Repromote) 316 SE Application Brush

Neutral Lips (LE) $22.50 USD Altered Beige - Creamy yellow beige (L) Square Root - Mid-tone burnt bronze (F) Lunar - Sheer creamy yellow beige w/ white pearlized pigments 316 SE Application Brush

Brush Sets:

Red Nylon Bag - 5 Basic Brush Set  (LE) $49.50 USD 129 SE 190 SE 224 SE 242 SE 266 SE

Green Nylon Bag - 5 Advanced Brush Set (LE) $49.50 USD 187 SE 168 SE 212 SE 219 SE 275 SE

Purple Nylon Bag - 5 Advanced Brush Set (LE) $49.50 USD 187 SE 168 SE 212 SE 219 SE 275 SE

 

Lipsticks (LE) $14.00 USD Naked to the Core - Creamy soft neutral pink outer w/ sheer beige pearlized core (L) Pop Circle - Creamy bright blue pink outer w/ sheer pale pink pearlized core (L) Inner Hue - Creamy mid-tone coral outter w/ sheer golden peach pearlized core (L) Rose Go Round - Creamy burgundy outer w/ sheer golden pink pearlized core (L)

 

Richmetal Hightlighers (LE) $16.50 Female - Frosty pale pink w/ green gold pearlized pigments Deep Deposit - Frosty deep blackened burgundy Quick Flash - Frosty warm gold Rose Bullion - Frosty mid-tone pink w/ gold pearlized pigments Dark Influence - Frosty purple w/ pink pearlized pigments Positive Charge - Frosty copper w/ gold pearlized pigments

 

Pigments (LE) $19.50 Royal Flush - Frosty mid-tone red Gilded Green - Frosty mid-tone green w/ gold pearlized pigments Tea Time - Bronzed brown w/ multi-dimensional pearlized pigments Jardin Aires - Tan w/ gold pearlized pigments (Repromote) Circa Plum - Frosty mid-tone lavender Steel Blue - Rich deep turquoise greenblue w/ small pearlized pigments (PRO item)

Colour Form Powder:

Sun Centered (LE) $24.50 Coral w/ gold pearlized pigments Mid-tone bronze Soft wheat w/ gold & silver pearlized pigments Soft peach w/ white pearlized pigments

Play Around Pink (LE) $24.50 Intense blue mid-tone pink w/pearlized pigments Plum Soft pink w/ pink & white pearlized pigments Light pink

{Info: Specktra}

FEATURED - Thursday, May 29th 2008

MAC Electro Flash: Color Story, Product Images

Here's some more MAC collection info I've been meaning to post.  MAC introduces Electro Flash collection for Summer 2008.  This new collection consists of 9 gorgeous Mineralized Eyeshadow Duos, along with 4 lipsticks, 4 lipglass and a Large Fluff Brush.  This new collection should be available starting in August.  Check out the product photos below courtesy of Bjooti.net.

Mineralized Eye Shadow Duos Play on Plums Mélange/Mono - Peachy gold with pink and bronze veining / Bronzed burgundy mono Sea & Sky Mélange/Mono - Silvery pale blue with deep blue and silver veining / Bright blue mono Hot Contrast Mélange/Mono - Dirty red with silver and black veining / Black mono Love Connection Mélange/Mono - Pale beige with gold and blue veining / Warm gold mono Two to Glow Mélange/Mono - Dirty bronze with pink and orange veining / Orange mono Odd Couple Mélange/Mono - Warm gold with lavender and bronze veining / Purple mono Polar Opposites Mélange/Mono - Dirty purple with silver, indigo and pink veining / True silver mono Fresh Green Mix Mélange/Mono - Golden olive with blue, gold and aqua veining / Lime mono Pink Split Mélange/Mono - Dirty rose with bronze and pale blue veining / Pink with gold pearl mono

Lipsticks - $14.00 USD Vanity’s Child - Sheer pale beige with pearl (Lustre) (LE) Fast Thrill - Frosty clean mid-tone pink with pearl (Frost) (LE) Mellow Mood - Glossy mid-tone dirty pink with pearl (Lustre) (LE) Dangerously Hot - Creamy deep brown red (Amplified) (LE)

 

Lipglass - $14.00 USD Culture Clash - Frosty clear baby pink with multi-dimensional pearl (Frost) (LE) Major Minor - Frosty mid-tone beige with multi-dimensional pearl (Frost) (LE) Sonic Vibe - Frosty mid-tone pink with multi-dimensional pearl (Frost) (LE) Lil’ Hot Pepper - Frosty burnt red with multi-dimensional pearl (Frost) (LE)

Brush - $30.00 USD  227 Large Fluff Brush

{Info: Kiss and Makeup}

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 2nd 2008

Colored Mascara: Black Is Out And Color Is In

Product: Urban Decay Big Fatty Color Mascara

Price: $17.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Urban Decay, Sephora

Recommend: Yes, Espically if you love color

If you love the extra-thickening powers of Big Fatty Mascara, round out your collection with these wearable shades. Turquoise and navy hues give brown and blue eyes a jolt, purple shades make green eyes more dangerous, and burgundy adds drama to any eye color. They're a refreshing alternative to basic black.

Colored mascara is making an huge comeback and I'm so giddy over it!  Urban Decay introduces four new colored mascaras this summer.  Black Cherry (a deep burgandy), Electric Blue (a vibrant teal blue), Indigo (a vibrant blue violet) and Purple Haze (a dark purple).  Check out the photo swatches and the video tutorial to get this look below.

These new shades are so fun and sassy, I just love them.  The bold pop of color instantly makes your lashes eye candy.  I happened to stop by my local Sephora today to pick up some primer potion, and these beauties were calling out my name.  I was immediately drawn to these vibrant colors, foremost the Electric Blue shade.  Thankfully, I was able to snatch the very last one (shoowee, close one)!  Electric Blue is definitely going to be the most popular out of the four.  The other colors were fully stocked.  Purple Haze is another nice color I will have to pick up soon.  It is a must have color for those green eyed babies!

The promo image is pretty smokin hot ladies!  So, make sure you check out Urban Decays tutorial video to get this look.

To get this look you'll need: Urban Decay Eyeshadow(s) in Blaze and Rush 24/7 Glide on Eye Pencil in Deviant Sparkler Pen for Lips in Flare Big Fatty Color Mascara in Electric Blue

 

FEATURED - Wednesday, June 4th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Dior Golden Nugget

These last two days has just been horrendous in the KY and OH region.  Tornados, thunderstorms, and flooding, oh my!  Hopefully, everyone else is staying dry and cool today.  Two straight days of constant stroms has me feeling quite blah.  I felt the need to spice it up a little with Diors gorgeous, Golden Nugget nail polish. 

I know many of you have asked me about my nail polish swatches.  And, I apologize for my lack of posts but, my nails have been going through a little rehab.  Sometimes it's best to chop 'em all off and start fresh.  Rescue my nails book gave me some great tips on how to get my nails in top-notch shape.  Great book, ya'll should check it out!

Today was the first chance I had to wear Dior Golden Nugget polish.  And, it's a gorgeous bronze metallic nail polish with gold shimmer.  Throughtout the day I kept glancing down at my nails admiring this gorgeous summer color as the light brings out the nautral gold shimmer.  I really think this color is going to appeal to ladies of color and warmer skin tones.  It's more of a deeper bronze color but, the gold shimmer shines like the sun.  This color looks great paired up with Dior's new Eyeshadow quint in Golds 569 ($54).  A new release in their summer collection 2008.  Check out the photo swatches below.

Summer beauty trends are pretty much a given.  From year to year it usually never changes admiring the traditional sun goddess.  Color shades of: Bronze, Golds, and Coppers.  All colors that are right up my alley, that I never get tired of.  Dior 5 colour iridescent eyeshadow quint in golds includes shades of: dark copper, light gold, champagne, golden olive (green-gold) and gold.  This is one of my favorite quints that I purchased this season.  Dior's quints have great color pay-off and staying power. 

I have a ton of nail polish swatches that I'll be posting in the next couple weeks.  Being in nail rehab has my swatches backed up big time.  Some of the collections include: Essie's Summer, OPI Mod about brights, Zoya and some others.  Stay tuned.

Have a great day peeps!

xoxo

FEATURED - Friday, June 6th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Neo Sci Fi Nail Polish Swatches

MAC introduced four new nail polish colors with the release of Neo Sci Fi collection. Phosphur, Plasma Blu, Neon 8 and Metalist.  Pictured above (from Left to Right): Phosphur, Plasma Blu and Neon 8.  I decided against Metalist because it's a neutral sand colored shade.  I felt it was blah and kinda boring because I'm all about the color baby. However, Metalist would be a nice color if you tend to stay on the safe side.  The color reminded me of Chanel's Antilope and Dior's new one.

The new colors are all frosts.  And, MAC makes the best frost textures around (the MA's will also agree). My favorites are Plasma Blu (hello blue, no-brainer for me), Neon 8 and Phosphur.  These colors are definitely bold and daring and are right on track for trendy colors this summer.  Check out some photo swatches below.

Plasma Blu is described as a bright turquoise blue shade with turq. blue shimmer.  This color has a tendency to look tealish-blue in certain lighting.  Some more pictures below.

Plasma blu is pretty unique. The only thing I have close to this color would be an teal green polish.  I will post comparisons later next week.

Phosphor is described as a bumble bee yellow with golden frost.  My husband liked this color over Plasma Blu? Can you beleive that?!  But, I'm just not sure I'm so coo-coo over it yet.  This is a very mysterious color and unlike anything I own.  In some lights it tends to look like a golden mustard color.  Phosphor may take some time to win my heart over.  But, I'm sure it won't take that much time.

Phosphor is a FAB pedicure color.  Coordinate this with your beach apparel = instant eye candy!

I had a chance to sport around Neon 8 all this weekend.  And, I just love it!  Described as a coral-strawberry color, that is just fabulous.   It  is an universal color that anyone can wear.  This is truely a must have and is my favorite color out of the bunch.  Check out the candid shot below.

The consistency of the polishes are pretty much the same.  Two coats with thicker applications and three coats for lighter applications.  All my swatches are done with three light coats.  Originally, when I swatched the colors at the MAC store, plasma blu and phosphor stained my nails.  So, make sure you use a base coat on your nails.  I always recommend using a base coat on all nail polish applications.  I had no problems with staining using a base coat.

Have a great weekend ya'll!  Keep cool and safe!

xoxo

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 12th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Nicole Blue Lace

Nicole by OPI's Blue Lace - an aqua blue shimmer with yellow-green undertones makes this color oh-so fabulous.  A perfect color to go with MAC's gorgeous Cool Heat eyeshadows.  Now, I know ya'll may be thinking, MAC's Plasma Blu.  But, nope.  There are some noticable differences between the two.  What you can't see in the pictures is the yellowish undertones that gives this color green appeal!  And, I love green envy!  Plasma Blu has clearly no greenish or yellow undertones and is much more frosty.

Blue Lace is most defintely an cameleon kind of color.  She's had a chance to show off at the MAC store and at Applebee's for dinner with my Seafoam Green tube top.  I had to actually hold my nails against my top just to make sure it was still blue.  I loved how the seafoam green top reflected off my nails and gave blue lace a huge boast of green. 

This was my first bottle of the "Nicole by OPI" brand.  Being an polish by OPI, I had no doubts.  The application applied smoothly and only two coats were needed.  Nail polish makes me so happy when only two coats are needed.  I absolutely dread applying more than two coats of polish because I can't sit still.  My morning was so busy, I didn't have a chance to apply a topcoat.  And, I'm happy to report - no chipping yet!

    

Blue Lace matches perfectly with the blue-green eyeshadows from the Cool Heat collection.  If MAC featured a Nail Lacquer in this collection, Blue Lace would be her!

FEATURED - Friday, June 13th 2008

MAC Cool Heat: Photo Swatches, Review

Overall, the cool heat collection is exhilarating - with a refreshing burst of color.  Warming Trend  - a taupe frosty color and Solar White - white frost are great colors for you neutral loving gals out there.   Gulf Stream, Cool Heat, Blue Flame and Climate Blue were some of my favorite colors out of the collection.  Cool Heat is a cross between steamy and parrot.  Although, cool heat is an gorgeous color, it may not be nessecary if you own many teal colors.  MAC has a wide variety of teal shades.  I saw a little bit of Big T (from the c-shock) in this collection also.

I also picked up a couple of my favorite green shades: swimming and humid.  If you've been to the MAC store you'll notice "green shades" are extremely limited.  I can only think of three stock colors off the top: juxt, humid, and swimming.  Which, are all gorgeous shades of green.  So, needless to say I was pretty excited to see green in the cool heat collections. Check out all the photo swatches below.

 

  

 

 

 

 

      

FEATURED - Saturday, June 14th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: MAC Whirlwind

I know your probably thinking -  Summertime's here and I'm still wearing dark nail polish!  Well, I have sort of a fetish for darker colors.  And, I have an even bigger fetish for MAC's whirlwind nail polish.  This has to be one of my all-time favorite nail polishes in general and from MAC.  Described as an gorgeous forest green with aqua blue shimmer that was introduced in MAC's storm signals collection.  Whirlwind is truely one of the most unique colors I own.

Two heavy coats were used in my photo swatches or you could get by with three light coats.  Good color pay-off, no chipping and the staying power was definitely there.  This is most certainly a must have color if you love blue and green nail polish shades.  However, it is an limited edition color but, I'm sure you can still find it on ebay.  Candid shot below.

Dark nail polish colors never go out of style, even in the summer.  But, I know it's time I jump on that summertime color wagon.  So, you'll be seeing some pretty electrifying colors to come!

Hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend!

FEATURED - Monday, June 16th 2008

Kat Von D Makeup: Photo Swatches

A couple months ago, I blogged about Kat Von D's new makeup brand.  I was finally able to check it out at Sephora.  Overall, I was pleasantly suprised with the eyeshadow palettes.  The color pay-off was pretty good as well as the lasting power.  And, at $34.00 per palette for 8 eyeshadow colors, is a fantastic deal.  Just averaging about $4.25 a color.  Check out the photo swatches below.

True Romance Palette in Beethoven ($34).  The Beethoven palette contains: Lucifer (matte charcoal black), Speed Blue (dark metalic blue), Razor Gray (warm gun steel shimmer), Tequila (metallic cornsilk shimmer), Galeano (metallic medium plum shimmer), Sinner (metallic purple black shimmer), Rad Purple (matte purple black with purple glitter), Leather (matte dark brown) with two doubled-ended applicator brushes.

Speed Blue was my fave out of the Beethoven palette.  It's a cross between MAC's freshwater and blue flame.

True Romance Palette in Ludwig ($34).  The Ludwig palette contains: Lucifer (matte charcoal black), Orbi (golden green shimmer), Dimebag (metallic lime green), Clay (beige with gold glitter), Tequila (metallic cornsilk shimmer), Downtown (metallic light copper shimmer), Baroque (golden bronze shimmer), Leather (deep chocolate brown sheen), and two double-ended applicator brushes.
 

Ludwig is my favorite out of the two.  It's a great color combination, espically for the neutral loving gals out there.  My faves are both the greens (no brainer).

FEATURED - Monday, June 16th 2008

Milani Color Brilliance Pencils: Swatches, Review

An outstanding eye liner pencil that delivers superb color in one easy application. It has been developed with moisturizing ingredients for silky-smooth texture and with special polymers for long lasting power. Add depth and definition to your eyes with this rich pencil. Available in 4 intensifying shades at Walgreens for $3.99 each (that's chump change).

Milani's new color brilliance pencils are the shit, to put it mildly.  They have an ridiculous amount of color, lasting power (really, the whole day), and no smudging.  And, they are right up there with Urban Decay 24/7 (another favorite of mine).  Applying these dreamy shades were so easy - no need for warming the tips again.  

01 Black - (not pictured) a bold rich black color, 04 Purple - described as a magenta purple shade with violet shimmer, 02 Aqua - is a aqua blue with aqua shimmer, and 03 Green - a gorgeous kelly green with gold shimmer.  I literally could go on-and-on about this gorgeous green shade - but, I won't bore you.  I have this huge fixation for green shades.  03 Green is a must have eyeliner for green lovers.  Heck, for $3.99, you can't even get an gallon of gas for that!

FEATURED - Thursday, June 19th 2008

Givenchy Fall Makeup 2008: Sweet Dandy Collection

The Autumn and Winter 2008 makeup collections promo pictures are starting to surface.  Most fall collections are slated for the end of July to mid August.  Random fact: my beauty wardrobe completely lacks any givenchy makeup.  I'm looking to change that soon - starting off by the gorgeous, Le Vernis nail polish and smokey eyeshadow quad.  Check out the color story and promo pictures below.

Pocket Beauty Case Accessory for Glowing Lips and Cheeks $55.00 (Sweet Dandy)

Prisme Again! Shimmer Eyes Mat & Shimmering Eyeshadow Quartet $49.50 in Smoky Shimmer and 44 Precious Shimmer

Prisme Libre Loose Powder Quartet Air Sensation $63.00 in Dandy Beige

Captiv’Eyes Intense Volume Mascara Magnetic Eyes $25.00 in Dandy Black

Magic Khôl Eye Liner Pencil $21.50 in Dandy Blue

Rouge Interdit Satin Lipstick Irresistible Color $26.50 in Romantic Dandy and Fatal Dandy

Pop Gloss Crystal Crystal Lip Gloss $23.50 in Romantic Dandy and Fatal Dandy

Polka dots dress up! These two customized harmonies are reminiscent of a dandy’s basic deconstructed three-piece suit. A matte texture and three complementary glowing shades offer two ways of creating sophisticated, smoky eyes.  Smoky Shimmer: three dense, shiny black shades softened by a matte white base for grey tones coloured with blue, white and purple pearlescent particles.

Rouge Interdit lets you show off two sides of your charm with two different languages to express your femininity: Romantic Dandy pinkish beige for a naturally flushed look, and pure, intense Fatal Dandy red, the most dangerous lipstick around! Matching Pop Gloss Crystal in pinkish beige or intense red can be used alone for glossy, transparent colour or as a top coat to accentuate shine.

Nail polish addicts - saving the best for last...

Le Vernis. Limited Edition
The nails look as if they have been dipped in a starry night. Male codes meet female codes in luminous Dandy Moiré navy-blue varnish.

This beautiful green-blue shimmer nail polish is what orginially pulled me into this collection.  Looking at the promo picture, it looks very familiar to one of my all time polishes, MAC whirlwind.  Needless to say, I haven't found an worthwhile comparison to MAC's color.  So, I'm pretty excited to see this color in real life.

{Source: Temptalia, Kiss and Makeup}

FEATURED - Friday, June 20th 2008

Nars Neu Neons: Summer Makeup Collection

Francois Nars visionary shades perfect compliment this seasons fashion bold and bright.  Enliven lips with a ray of neon shines to add a jolt of style to your beauty wardrobe.  Shock your lips with hot pink, tangerine and fuchsia.

Lip Lacquer ($24) - in Capucine - a sheer tangerine. High shine formula with sheer pigments of transparent color for luscious lips day or night. The super-shiny formula can be worn alone or over other lip products.

Lip Pencil ($20) - in Miss Sadie - shimmering carmine pink. Longwearing color in a creamy formula that helps define, correct and shape the lip while preventing lip color from bleeding and feathering. 

Lip Gloss ($24) - in Frisky Summer - a raspberry sorbet. Serious shine and sexy color in sheer, cream and semi-sheer formulas. Extremely wearable and versatile colors may be worn alone or over any lip product for more drama.

Compliment this seasons boldest fashion statement with a shocking shade range blushes unique to the vision of Franocis Nars.  Highlight cheeks with a collection of neon shades from bright corals to brilliant poppies.

Blush ($24) - in Desire - cotton candy pink, Catus Flower Cream - a shimmering poppy and Craze - a raspberry red with shimmer.

 

Nars embraces the summer heat with a range of striking neon shades for the eyes.  Brighten lids with shocking purple and hot poink shadows.  Experiment with bold green and turquoise liners for the seasons ulitmate fashion statement.

Eyeshadow ($32) - Carvaggio - a Azaela pink / Irisdescent Violet, Party Monster - lilac wiith gold shimmer, South Pacific - shimmering blue turquoise / dark aquamarine.

Eyeliner ($20) - Parrot Cay - mint green and Le Sept glitter - purple with gold glitter.

Nars summer collection is now available at Sephora or Nars Cosmetics.

FEATURED - Tuesday, June 24th 2008

Nordstrom Beauty Exclusives: Preorder Only

Nordstrom gives us a peek at some beauty exclusives available for pre-order.  Take a moment to stop by and check out the drool-worthy pictures and release information.  Here are just a few things I'm excited about.

MAC Colour Forms - Warm Eyes ($38.00): A set of five limited edition shadow combinations perfect for those green eyed gals.  It might be the eye-catching green casing or the beautiful color combination of purples and greens that draw me into this palette.  Having green eyes ain't no day in the park.  Bottom line: their difficult and we just can't pick any color.  Purple is a shade that won't do us wrong ladies and gents!

MAC Colour Forms - Warm Lips ($22.50): A set of three limited edition lipstick shades.  This lovely Warm Lip Palette was featured in Allure's July issue as one of the Editior's pick.

Fall is creeping up faster than you think and so is all the upcoming collections.  It's all about dark goth colors and I'm loving it.  I can't wait to drench my nails and lips with dark vampy colors such as Dior's Rouge in Fantastic Plum and Nail Vernis in Liquorice.

Dior Rouge in Fantastic Plum ($27.00) - a dark plum and Liquorice ($19) - a dark plum shimmer is a great way to start off your Fall.

Essie's 2008 Fall Collection ($15.00 mini set) - Forever Young - Fiery Tango Red, Lacy not Racy - velvety vintage burgandy, No Boundaries - passionate plum and Tomboy No More - red current traffle.

Regarding Essie's Fall collection - I'm not certain if their releasing more colors.  But, I will keep you guys updated as soon as I find out anything.

FEATURED - Monday, June 30th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: NYX Jungle

Happy Monday!  Hope ya'll had a great weekend.  It's been mostly cloudy and fairly chilly in the eastern region.  Can you believe this crazy weather?!  Anyway, today's nail polish is NYX in Jungle - an aqua blue color base with green and gold shimmer.  This is my second nail polish purchase from NYX and I'm overly impressed.  The color applied like a charm with three light coats and the drying time was perfect  - not fast drying, yet not slow.  Add additional coats and you'll see the green and gold shimmer shine through.  In the sunlight, you'll notice the gold shimmer gives the color more of an yellow undertone.

Another great color is the new version of Las Vegas which, was one of my first purchases from NYX.  This gorgeous forest green with shimmer is a must have color espically, if you love Nar's Zulu or deep green shades.

Two coats is a light aqua blue with green and gold shimmer.

 Three coats is more of an blue with noticeable green shimmer.

Four coats totally rock this color.  I'll be the first to admit, applying that many layers of nail poliish is such a drag.  But, the color difference from each application is huge.  The color is described as a deep kelly green with gold shimmer that is really pretty and the blue is hardly noticeable.    

So, I have alot going on this week.  Today was pretty exciting when I received my shipment of new Chanel nail polishes - Gold Fiction and Kalediscope (drool)!  Both are gorgeous colors, espically Kaledicscope - a pewter metallic with green undertones.  I'll be posting those in a couple of days.  Also this month - Chanel is releasing the Robertson Blvd collection - an highly anticipated collection of pink, orange, yellow and purple nail polishes (whohoo)!  Girls - you don't want to miss out on that collection, the colors are hot!

FEATURED - Tuesday, July 1st 2008

Drugstore Haul: Sally Hansen, Loreal

This week, Walgreens has buy one get one free on Loreal lip products which, is a perfect time to stock up on colorjuice.  My weekly visit to the drug store turned out to be fall makeup mania.  The fall 2008 makeup displays are in full force.  And, as much as I wanted to start stocking up vampy colors, summer's still here and I'm hooked on bright girly colors.  Here are some of the things I came out with:

Sally Hansen ($5.49) - Lacquer Shine in Lily - a ruby red shimmer and Lotus - a choclate brown shimmer.  I couldn't leave walgreens without getting a couple rich, dark colors.  Dark vampy red and plums are going to be huge colors for fall and Sally Hansen's Lily is right up my alley.

Loreal Colorjuice ($7.49) - This is a classic drug store cult item for me.  I haven't formally did an review on this, but, this is probably one of my most frequent reoccuring beauty purchases. 

Loreal Hip ($8.99) - High gloss jelly balm in Succulent.  This is a new product from the hip line that features at least 6 different shades of: coral, pink, plums, red.  I'll be doing an review comparing Loreal's and MAC's tendertone shortly.

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 2nd 2008

Chanel Gold Fiction and Kaleidoscope Swatches

This Fall Chanel introduces three new limited edition colors:  Gold Fiction - a true 18 karat gold, Kaleidoscope - a metallic pewter gray with green undertones and Fantastic - a deep wine shade.   Along with these three new shades accompanied a pretty hefty price tag.  Gold Fiction retailing at $30 and the others at $20.  Did ya'll notice their regular nail polish even increased in price?!  I know what your thinking, 30 bucks for a nail polish, that is ridiciously, and it is! 

Gold Fiction is described as a true 18 karat gold shade.  The application is like spreading butter on your nails except with 18 karats of pure perfection.  But, for 30 bucks worth of perfection?  Probably not.  Everything about Gold Fiction was perfect, which is exactly what your paying for.  Your not paying for the unique color, just the richness of Chanel.

The Polish Addict has some great gold comparisons and OPI Symphony in Gold looks to be right on the money.  It's definitely worth taking a peek.

I literally fainted when Kaleidoscope - a pewter grey metallic with green undertones, graced my eyes.  Now, this is what I'm talking about!  I would certainly pay 30 bucks Kaleidoscope in a minute.  This is probably one of the most unique colors Chanel has created and I'm loving it.  All the photo swatches don't justify the beauty of this color - it is truely hard to describe.

Kaleidoscope has been fingers and toes for quite sometime.  I've been sporting around this color for the last couple days and I can't stop drooling at it.

Fantastic is a nice creamy shade of red wine, but, I just don't see anything fantastic about it.  Save your money on this shade and pick up another bottle or Kaleidoscope or save it for the Robertson Blvd Collection.

Overall, Kaleidoscope is the bread winner of the Fall nail colors.  But, all being limited edition, don't hold your breath and snatch them up quickly before they sell out.  Don't wait on Kaleidoscope it will go super fast.  I promise you won't regret it.

Chanel hear me loud ~ please release the Robertson Blvd Collection already!      

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 2nd 2008

Product Review: Loreal Hip Jelly Balm

Product: L'oreal HiP Jelly Balm

Price: $8.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Drugstores

Recommend: Yes

Loreal introduces these scrumptous jelly balms to the HiP line just in time for summer.  These glossy pots of pucker comes in 6 different colors ranging from pink, coral, and reds. 

On my recent haul to Walgreens, HiP's super shiny promo display caught my attention with a range of juicy shades.  Succulent is the color that came home with me which is comparable to MAC's tendertone in Pucker.  I chose one of the darker shades because MAC's tendertones are rather sheer.

Loreal's HiP line is quickly gaining a large crowd of admirer's with their High Intensity Pigments (hence HiP) and overall superb quality.  So, it don't suprise me that these jelly balms wouldn't be as fabulous as their other products.

First off, I love these babies and yes, even more than MAC!  The color Succulent has excellent color pay-off compared to MAC's pucker.  I didn't have to scoop a huge chunk just to get decent color.  Good news is - Succlent wasn't the darkest of HiP's Jelly Balms.  There was one shade darker and the pay-off would be awesome.   MAC's jar may have appeared larger than Loreal's but, looks are always deceiving.  I think it's the construction of each jar that throws you off and the amount is pretty much the same.  So, no worries there.

 

HiP Jelly Balm in Succulent verses MAC Tendertones in Pucker.  One noticeable difference you'll see is the texture.  Tendertones has noticeable shimmer and the Jelly Balm doesn't.  The texture was non-sticky, slightly glossier and a tad thicker than MAC.  In fact, after wearing Loreal's verison for a couple days, I plan on picking up the coral shade soon!  The only true disadvantage is Loreal's doesn't have any SPF coverage.

 

The same amount was used on the swatch and you can see the difference in the pay-off.  My only dislike about MAC's tendertones is the sheerness and the amount it takes to get color.  Some of the MAC's lighter colors didn't even show up on my lips.  However, the jelly balms are also available in lighter shades.  So, if you want some color, sway towards the darker shades.

Overall, HiP continues to introduce some fabulous products to the market including their new Metallics.  I can't wait to see what's slated for Fall 2008.  A great way to try out the HiP line is BOGO sales at drug stores.  Keep your eye peeled - Walgreen, CVS and Rite Aid have BOGO sales pretty frequently.

FEATURED - Friday, July 4th 2008

Product Review: Loreal Hip Metallic Shadow Duo

Product: L'oreal HiP Metallic Shadow

Price: $6.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Drugstores

Recommend: Yes

Fly into the metallic world of color with Loreal's new Hip metallic eyeshadow duo's with rich, high pearl finish full of intense color.

HiP introduces another great product to their shadow duo line - a metallic with an insane amout of pigmentation and color pay-off.  These new metallic shadows are the whip you guys, for serious.  Gilded is the shade that came home with me today.  A true metallic gold with a brown w/gold shimmer for creases that is featured on the display promo.  A perfect combo to go with richness of Chanel Gold Fiction nail polish this Fall.

I was instantly drawn into the high intensity metallic pigments of the duo shadows.  Their practical, everyday colors you can incorporate into your work and school wardrobe.  Not bright and outrageous like some of the regular non-metallic shades. Five colors combinations are available in: Gun Metal -jade green/olive, Magnetic - navy blue/light blue, Sculpted - mauve/light pink, Gilded - gold/brown and Platinum - black/silver.  Check out the photo swatch below.

 

Two swipes with my finger delivers intense gold color that blended perfectly with my MAC 239 brush.  A sponge applicator and mirror is included with compact but, you'll get better results with a makeup brush such as MAC's or any flat tipped eye shadow brush.  

It's really hard to find a good metallic eyeshadow with staying power and color pay-off.  And, these rock compared to the dreadful, metal-x shadows from MAC.  Everything about metal-x collection was horrible - crease lines everywhere, texture nearly impossible to deal with - to much hassle than it's worth.  I have some swatches of metal-x and mineralized shadows I'll be putting up soon to compare textures.

 

Overall, HiP metallic shadow duos earned four kisses but, may easily earn five after a few more uses.  Other great colors are Platinum and Gunmetal.  I may go back seeing how wonderful these turned out.

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 9th 2008

Loreal HiP Metallic Shadow: Gun Metal, Platinum

The other day I blogged about Loreal's new Hip Metallic Shadows Duos.  Well, these shadows are so wonderful that two new shades came home with me yesterday.  Gun Metal - a metallic olive shade with forest/green shimmer and Platinum - a silver metallic shade with a black/silver shimmer.

Check out the swatches below.

Gun Metal is a pretty combintation of olive and forest green color.  The green shimmer in the darker shade is stunning along with gold undertones in the olive.   Platinum is a great combination to accomplish that smokey eye look.  It's also a great combination for a night out or holiday parties.

Check out my eye look with the Gun Metal Quad.

I literally put this together in two shakes of a lambs tail with no time or effort wasted.  Outstanding color payoff and pigmentation made the application like cake.  I love that you can mix and match with other Hip metallic colors.  The gold in the Gilded duo topped over Gun Metal looks amazing!

FEATURED - Saturday, July 12th 2008

Covergirl Tropical Fusion Eyeshadow Dupes

A few weeks ago, I blogged about Covergirl's new tropical fusion eyeshadow. I've had several requests for this colorful palette and I know why!  Not to make matters worse but, I'm going to give ya'll a few more reasons why you need to grab this.

I was instantly drawn into the beautiful green shade as I'm TOTALLY fixated with green this year and last. It may be the combination of my green eyes or the impossiblty of getting ahold of in Nars Zulu nail polish. How's that saying go - we always want the impossible.. Not only impossible but, extremely limited. Hard to find + Rarity = Cha ching!

On to the good stuff. Last night was the first time I had a chance to play with my Cool Heat shadows from Mac. Big suprise but, I fell in love with Gulf Stream.  Something was oh so familiar about this gorgeous green.  That's because it's an exact dupe of the covergirls Tropical Fusion green shade. The only true difference is mac's version is a tad frostier.  Check out the swatches below.

Your not only getting Gulf Stream but, Submarine too.  Two MAC eye shadows at $36.00 + Tropical Fusion Quad $4.99 = $31.00 savings.  The blue isn't a 100 percent dupe like Gulf Stream but, it's pretty darn close.  Submarine is a tad on the navy side and frostier.

Fab and Flashy is a tangerine shade compared to covergirls orange/coral.  Covergirls version is really pretty but no pigmentation and staying power along with the yellow shade.  The yellow texture was just plain awful.  A matte that is chalky and has no pigmentation at all.  Eyepopping is a gorgeous bumble bee colored shade that looks gorgeous with greens.  It's classified more as an lime green, but appears more yellow on my NC30.  Although eyepopping is a limited edition it's still available on ebay and resonably priced too.  Just make sure it's a trusted MAC seller.

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 - Wednesday, July 16th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Suite Array Collection

The Suite Array collection introduces a new eye shadow suite with pearl glide liners.  Check out all the color information below.  All preliminary information and pictures courtsey of Specktra and Ernie1881.

The Suite Array collection should be available on Sept 25th.

Eye shadow Suites - $16.00 USD

• Blue Zone - Deep grey/green with silver pearlized pigments/Light ice blue with silver pearlized pigments.
• Ocean 2 - Mid-tone blue with silver pearlized pigments/Light blue with silver pearlized pigments.
• Smoke & Ash - Black with silver pearlized pigments/Mid-tone grey silver with pearlized pigments.
• Counterparts - Deep forest with gold pearlized pigments/Mid-tone orange with gold pearlized pigments.
• Rose Suites - Intense blue pink/Light yellow with silver pearlized pigments
• Shallow v. Deep - Bluish green with gold pearlized pigments/Mint with silver pearlized pigments.
• Sweet Liason - Pale yellow with gold pearlized pigments/Deep brown with gold pearlized pigments.
• Team Violets - Dark burgundy with burgundy pearlized pigments/Mid-tone violet with gold pearlized pigments.

Pearlglide Liners - $14.50 USD

• Wolf - Deep grey with gold glitter
• Rave - Deep purple with purple glitter
• Fly-by-Blu - Light blue with blue glitter
• Black Russian - Black with navy blue glitter
• Miss Fortune - Eggplant with light pink glitter
• Bankroll - Rich green with bright green sparkle
• Spare Change - Mid-tone brown with copper glitter
• Molasses - Brown with mid-tone brown glitter

Thanks to Ernie1881 for this sneak peak.  To check out more pictures from this collection, click here.

FEATURED - Friday, July 18th 2008

Product Review: UD 24-7 Glide On Pencil

Product: UD 24/7 Glide on Pencil

Price: $16.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora, Urban Decay

Recommend: Yes

The Claim: Glide on color that stays put for the duration of your non-stop, on-the-go day!  These creamy eye pencils deliver powerful, vibrant color that slides on smooth and stays soft and creamy for blending (about 30 seconds), then dries to a long-lasting finish that won't budge.

It was time to pull out my ultra creamy, electric blue Deviant eyeliner as I head to the pool with gummy bears and Allure's August issue in hand.  Created with 50% moisturizing ingredients made this dreamy when appling to basically anywhere - including you waterliners!

Everything about this eyeliner including the gorgeous Deviant shade totally rocked you guys!  Let's just say these babies outlasted my DiorShow waterproof mascara.  It stayed put and put - throughtout the entire day.  The only true disadvantages are the price of $16.00, but will last a good time and the removal process - may require makeup wipes (this can't be a bad thing, right?).

Check out the photo swatches below. 

Two of my personal favorites you'll find in my collection are Deviant and Covet.  Covet is a gorgoeus peacock green shade which, is a must-have if you love this color! 

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 - Wednesday, July 23rd 2008

OPI Gears up for Beverly Hills 90210

Brush with Greatness 90210 Style

Don't pretend you didn't watch because most of us probably did.  Brenda & Dylan, Kelly & Dylan, - I mean come on!  To celebrate the return of the 90210 girls, Brenda, Kelly and Donna, OPI brings us six new shades to sport this Fall Beverly Hills Style.

O.P.I introduces a range of limited-edition nail shades inspired by the 90's hit series that will launch this Fall.  The shades and color information will be revealed in an upcoming issue of Nylon. 

Lavendar Purple, Green, Navy Blue, Hot Pink and Peach?!  This new collection had me at green.

{Source: Nylon Mag}

FEATURED - Saturday, July 26th 2008

Milani Cosmetics: Runway Eyes Swatches, Review

Milani introduced these capturing eye shadow gems quite sometime ago and my local CVS is always, I mean always, sold out.  But, Friday was my lucky day as there was only about five of these beauties left.  Milani Runway Eyes ($4.99) are available in 12 stunning colors and are a silky, smooth eye shadow that delivers unbelieveable color that can be applied wet or dry.  A two end applicator is included with the compact.  One side is a sponge for wet applications and the other a brush from dry applications.

Looking at the pictures, the shadows look very shimmery and glittery but are not so.  In fact, the sparkles are just the top layer which may have been intended for that quick-sell.  I could see alot of people passing this up just because they look "way too glittery".   The shimmer factor is about perfect.  Yes - there is shimmer but it's not chunky.  Honestly, some of the shades didn't even reflect shimmer when applied.  The color pay-off and staying power was excellent and I highly recommend these.

Check out some photo swatches below. 

I'm pretty much lemming all 12 shades which, may take sometime considering their never in stock.

Check out what else came home in my haul.

OMG, Did I mention GREEN!  Saved the best for last, you guys!  Good news is - Runway eyes are available in quads or should I say, sexts?   Glamorous Gems, $6.99, (i spelled it wrong in my pic above, oops) is a mixture of six green, golds and bronze colors.  I literally fainted when I saw Glamorous Gems in stock because I'd lost all hope by now.  I'm still geeked about finding this in stock because it's so pretty to look at. 

See the photo swatches below. 

The color pay-off is quite good because I'm probably an NC-35 right now.  I plan to mess around with these colors today and will report back on the staying power and so on.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

PS: MAC Starflash and Lustre twins are now available at Nordstrom, Pro and MAC stores on the 31st!

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 Overrich Collection: Review and Swatches

Overall, the overrich collection is filled with Over-richness.  The Cult of Cherry inspires these eight new pigment packed limited edition shades filled with rich lucious color to go perfectly with your cult of cherry look.  The pigments have unbelieveable color pay-off and are simply amazing - bottom line.  With all the Rage of Cult of Cherry - I totally forgot about these tubs of luxurious color.

Check out the photo swatches below.

Tonight at the Launch party Antique Green and Vintage Gold are two colors that came home with me.  Antique Green is a gorgeous turquoise green and Vintage Gold is a olive green gold similar to Golden Olive.  Good new is - most of these will be permnament colors at the Pro store except Mauvement and Mega Rich.  The Overrich collection will be available at maccosmetics.com and freestanding stores on August 21st.

Want more MAC?  Check out the Cult of Cherry photo swatches, review, lip looks using cult of cherry lipstick colors, nail polish swatches and my Overrich and Cult of Cherry makeup haul pictures.

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 - Monday, August 25th 2008

Givenchy Vernis Please in Dandy Moire

WOW, wow, and another WOW!  I haven't been this excited since, well, Chanel Kaleidoscope, lol.  No really, this color is absolutely fantastic as I knew it would be.  Ever since I blogged about Givenchy's fall makeup collection - this was high priority on my lemmings list.  With just seeing the product images - it was love at first sight.

If your not familiar with Givenchy products well, their all mini-me size with a hefty price tag.  To break it down, you get .18 oz for $15.00.  Most nail polish bottles range around .4 oz so, it's a mini me size!  A navy blue base color loaded down with emerald green, blue and gold shimmer - speechless, you guys.  So many gals are going to love this shade.

 

Picture above is taken in the sunlight.  The only true disadvantages is the price and limited edition status. 

As far as comparisons - the best way to describe this is a mix between MAC's Whirlwind and OPI's Yoga-ta get this blue.  If you love both thesse colors, then this is a must!

 

See how unpredictable nail polish colors can be!  Dandy Moire has some noticeable differences.  First off, a deep navy blue-blackish base color compared to OPI's royal blue.   What's so unique about Dandy is the emerald green and blue shimmer is actually visible indoors.  And, whirlwind is way off - it's not even in the same category as these two.  Dandy Moire is now available at Sephora for a limited time only.

FEATURED - Tuesday, August 26th 2008

Milani Goes Pop Art in six Gorgeous Ways

Don't ask me why Milani decided to introduce these gorgeous metallic shades so late in the game.  Just when you thought Fall was here - Milani pulls a little rabbit out of their hat.  infact, six new limited edition rabbits!  woot, woot!  But hey, better late than never!  Plus it's never too late to sport around pop color.

I'm not certain if there's a collection name, but, all six new shades are named after "art/design".  So, I'm just callin them Pop Art.  Shimmers, shimmers and more shimmers -  that's all you'll see in this new collection.   So much shimmer they can be classifed as metallic-like.

The best way to capture shimmers is with the sun and that's not happenin today.  The dark clouds have been hanging around for last couple days and isn't budging.  I would assume alot of us are having this nasty weather (my heart goes out to anyone in extreme circumstances).  But, in the next couple day's, I'll be replacing my swatches with regular ones. 

Check out the photo swatches below. 

Red Canvas - cherry red shade with gold and red shimmer.  Good color pay-off, two coats will you give good coverage.  No application problems.

                                          

Pink Abstract - a hot pink drenched in pink and silver shimmer.  Two coats will give you good coverage and three will make you shine.  No application problems.

 

Art Deco Blue - a royal blue metallic shade with aqua shimmer.  Two coats will give you good coverage and color pay-off.

 

Purple Pop Art - is going to be my next pedi shade which, I'll be posting tomorrow.  A magenta pink-purple with blue and pink shimmer.  Two coats will give you good cover but three is recommended for the bottle color.

 

Green Impressions - a granny smith apple green loaded with green and gold shimmers.   One particular thing I like - the conjuction of green and gold shimmers gives the appearence of multi-dimensonel under certain lighting.  The bad news - they are fairly sheer and require four coats or more to achieve bottle color.

 

Modern Yellow reminds me of China Glaze in Solar power with one minor expection.  It's completely drenched in gold and yellow shimmer - very gorgeous!  Just like Green Impresssions, the application required four coats to achieve bottle color.

 

Honestly, I liked every shade in this collection.  Very suitable for most people - if you love shimmer polishes.  Who doesn't like to shine with every color in the rainbow!  Hope your having a wonderful day!

FEATURED - Thursday, September 4th 2008

Rescue Beauty Lounge: Fall Collection Preview

Rescue Beauty Lounge introduces three drool worthy shades this fall.  Bruised - a moody deep plum brown cream, that's the new black to coordinate with your best outfits.  Teal - a deep green navy blue shade, that's a must have for any green and blue lover.  No more war - an edgy pure olive green grunge shade perfect for that metro chic look.  And, with the return of winter whites Ja Baek reintroduces, Plie - a opaque neutral beige with a hint of blush.

The fall shades are now available for pre-order at Rescue Beauty Lounge ($19).

Check out the swatches & review for the Fall o8 collection. 

FEATURED - Saturday, September 6th 2008

New Fall Shades: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear

Here's some new fall shades from Sally Hansen's Xtreme Wear line that I've had for a couple of weeks now.  More and more, I've been turning to Sally Hansen's bold, beautiful, fall-alistic colors.  

It's a horse of a different color (if you don't know this saying, shame on you)!  Emerald City - Don't this so remind you of Wizard of Oz?!  Infact, the name "emerald city" might have a little too much in common with the 1939 classic film.  A true emerald green shimmer perfect for green lovers.  

Gunmetal - a gorgeous blue/gray gunmetal shimmer.  It's more on the blue side - very pretty.

Mellow Yellow - a yellow - lime with green shimmer.  This color is "different".  A color that I wouldn't usually go for.  But, after wearing for a few days, it grew on me.

All these shades should be available now at most stores retailing an average $2.69 - great shades and cheap too!

FEATURED - Wednesday, September 17th 2008

China Glaze Wagon Trail has a twin sister

One of China Glaze's prize winners from the Fall Rodeo Diva collection is Wagon Trail.  A gorgeous black with goldish green shimmer - that's truely unique.  Yes, it's black - but very suitable for most people.  This is a color that can't mistaken anywhere.  So, when I popped into my local drugstore and saw the new wet n wild display, I knew it was an exact dupe.

Check out some pictures below.

(Right) Wet n Wild Rock Solid nail polish in Stunner - a limited edition shade.  (Left) China Glaze nail polish in Wagon Trail.

Wet n Wild's Stunner applied perfectly within two applications.  The formula was a tad bit thicker than China Glaze's, which was nice. 

Stunner is a excellent dupe for Wagon Trail - if you can find it.  You'll probably have better luck finding Wagon Trail since it's readily available online.  Regardless, both shades are equally beautiful.

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 - Tuesday, September 23rd 2008

Limited Edition: New colors from Wet n Wild

Wet n Wild introduces six new limited edition rock solid nail colors this season.  Overall, this is a fabulous mixture of dark and seducing shades for fall.  This collection is definitely a hit, retailing at just $2.69 a pop.

The colors ranging from dark steel, blue, purple and red's - sure to please any appetite.  One particular thing I would have changed is the red shades.  Mysterious is just your basic red shimmer.  And, boy, if that were substituted for a green version - nail addicts around the world would be going crazy for this.

Pictured Above, Femme Fatale - a dark charcoal grey with blue and green shimmer that is one of my favorites.

Check out more swatches below.   

 Sexy Siren - a vibrant blue with aqua blue shimmer.  Very pretty but, not so unique.

Seductress - a blackened purple with pink and purple shimmer.  Blackened shades with shimmer are really hard to capture on my digital camera.  But, this color is much pretty in person.

Stunner, wow - the name just says it all, doesn't it?  A black with gold specks of shimmer and a exact match to China Glaze's Wagon Trail.  If it wasn't for the release of Wagon Trail, I'd say this is the most unique out of the collection.

 

Temptress - a dark, vampy blood red with matching shimmer.  A sexy dark red that's stunning.  It may not be the most unique but, it's definitely goes with the fall theme.

 

Mysterious is just your basic ruby red shade with pink and red glitter.  In the picture above it looks more as a cherry red but, it real life it's actually darker.  Mysterious was my least favorite shade out of the Mistress of Darkness collection.  Now, if they'd substituted this red for a dark vampy green - well, I think we all know how that would have went, right?! 

This collection should be available at most grocery stores, drug stores, etc.

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 - Saturday, September 27th 2008

Borghese Roman Holiday Collection

Borghese introduces another nail polish collection this season - The Roman Holiday.  An ultra blingy collection of six limited edition shades consisting of: silver, gold, reds, pinks and plums - perfect for those holiday occassions.  All six shades are loaded down with mass shimmer - to sparkle and shine.

Overall, this is a great collection - particularly if you love shimmer based polishes.  Out of the six shades, only four stand out colors came home with me.  The other two colors I choose not to purchase was just your standard cherry red and hot pink shimmer's.

Check out the photo swatches below.    

Bella Blackberry is one of my favorite shades out of this collection.  A deep burgandy plum color with pink shimmer.

Romanza Ruby - a ruby red with pink and red shimmer.  In my swatch above, the color may look more cherry red but, in real lift it's a darker ruby red.  Perfect holiday event color.

Celestiale Silver and Trevi Gold aren't your standard gold and silver metallic shades.  Both colors are unique in their own way with a pewter colored undertone.

Celestiale Silver is a light silver with matching shimmer and pewter undertones.  Both these polishes have the same texture as Chanel's Kaleidoscope. 

Trevi Gold can be described as a dirty toned down gold that also has pewter colored undertones.  Check out some comparisons below.

Chanel Kaleidoscope has more noticeable pewter color compared to Borghese but, may not be so different in real life.  Although, the colors are different they all share one thing in common - the pewter colored undertones.

The Roman Holiday should be available now at your local CVS or Walgreens. 

FEATURED - Monday, September 29th 2008

Fall 08: China Glaze Flannel Fixation Collection

For fall China Glaze introduces the Rodeo Diva collection.  This collection is broken down into two seperation releases of six shades each.

Overall, Rodeo Diva is one of the best Fall collections I've seen out this year.  Most, if not all colors have excellent pigmentation and only required two coats of polish to achieve bottle color and with no topcoat.  In most cases, I never apply a topcoat because it gives the best color representation in my photos.

First up is the Flannel Fixation Collection.  Check out all the photo swatches below. 

Cowgirl Up - a purple-pink with red and violet shimmer. 

Midnight Ride - a midnight black purple with matching shimmer.  The purple in this color is hardly noticeable even in the sun.  Most times it tends to look on the black side.

 

Gussied up Green - is my favorite shade out of the Rodeo Diva colllection.  A forest green with gold and blue shimmer that is truely gorgeous.  Definitely recommend this color for anyone that loves green.

Rodeo Fanatic is the closet known color to MAC's Whirlwind except China Glaze's version has more noticable blue than green.  A peacock blue with matching shimmer.

Branding Iron - a burgandy red with matching shimmer.

Red Stallion - a cherry red with gold shimmer that was my least favorite shade of the collection.

The Flannel Fixation collection is now available at Head2Toe or 8ty8 Beauty.  Stay tuned for the Hay Ride collection.

FEATURED - Thursday, October 2nd 2008

Holiday 08: China Glaze Sleigh Ride Collection

The Holidays are creeping around the corner and China Glaze introduces three blingy polishes to start off right.

Sleigh Ride set includes three full size (.5 oz) holiday polishes and a free mini emery board.  Emerald Sparkle - a deep forest green loaded down with matching shimmer, Tinsel - a ultra blingy sliver glitter polish and Ruby Pumps - a ruby red with matching shimmer.

Check out all the photo swatches below.

 

Ruby Pumps - a holiday red loaded with red and gold shimmer.  A nice holiday red for the season but, nothing special if you don't fancy reds.

Tinsel - a glitzy sliver giltter polish that's a must have for new year's.  It's a little gritty but, nothing a top coat can't fix.

Emerald Sparkle - A christmas tree green with matching shimmer.  Emerald Sparkle was the shade I looked forward to the most and even though it's nice, Gussied Up Green is still my favorite green from China Glaze.

Sleigh Ride collection is now available at 8ty8 Beauty.

FEATURED - Monday, September 29th 2008

Fall 08: China Glaze Hay Ride Collection

The Hay Ride collection is the second addition to the stunning and gorgeous Fall Rodeo Diva.  Much like the Flannel Fixation release, the colors have excellent pigmentation and only required two coats to achieve bottle colors.  Some of my pictures are taken with three coats just  to even out all my errors.  All my  swatches are taken with no topcoat to accomplish best color respresentation.

In this collection sixe shades are included.  Golden Spurs was the only shade that just didn't fit my style for some reason.  However, it's a nice neutral color that will appeal to most.

Check out all the photo swatches below.

 Golden Spurs is a light tan shade with gold shimmer. 

Yee-Haw! is a peachy orange with gold shimmer.  At first, this color was so-so but, after wear it is truely stunning and looks ravishing on all skin tones.

Prize Winning Mare is another one of my favorites because it's unique and hard to describe.  A brownish shade with bronze and gold shimmer.  But, not as bronzy as per se Dior Gold Nugget.

Lasso My Heart looks purple in the bottle but, in real life is more of an metallic pink shade. Described as a purple with red and gold shimmer,   

Wagon Trail is drop dead gorgeous and looks even more stunning on.  A black with gold shimmer and olive green undertones.  One of the most unique colors or so I thought.  Check out it's twin sister.

Side Saddle a vampy brownish red with gold shimmer.

The Hay Ride collection is now available at Head2Toe or 8ty8 Beauty.

FEATURED - Sunday, October 19th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Sinful Coco Diamond

Can you guys believe it's almost November?  October seems like it's just flying on by and we know what that means - cold temperatures - yuck!  Anyway, today's nail polish of the day is a new one from Sinful, Coco Diamond ($1.99).  This may be a little hard to describe but I'll try my best.  A taupish grey base color followed by a minty green shade with green and aqua blue glitter/shimmer.

My application required three coats with no true problems.  Within my first coat I noticed the greyish taupe shade to be more visible but, was more of an minty green following the second and third layers.  Coco Diamond would also look great topped over a grey or black.

 

I found a small Sinful display at my local Walgreens consisting of five of six colors.  The only shades that caught my attention was Coco Diamond and a blue shade that I'll be posting in a few days.

Hope ya'll had a great weekend!

FEATURED - Thursday, October 30th 2008

My New Love: Laura Mercier Caviar Dreams

Good Afternoon, Lovelies!  My poor blog needs some much deserved attention. Yesterday, I received a sweet little package from Sephora and couldn't wait to tell you guys about it.

Laura Mercier's Caviar Dreams ($15.00), from the Black Tie Collection is described as a gorgeous duochrome that shifts between Charcoal Gray, Green and Purple that's simply amazing! The formula was smooth and two coats gives you good coverage with no true application problems. Since the formula is rather thick, you may able to pull this off in one coat.

Check out more swatches below. 

Here's an example of the Charcoal duochrome, which you'll see more of in the sunlight. It's definitely unique and I own nothing like her. if you love green and duochromes make sure you grab this fast ladies!

Caviar Dreams is now available at Sephora and Laura Mercier for a limited time only. Don't miss out on this great shade!

FEATURED - Monday, November 9th 2009

New Holiday Mini Sets from Borghese

Product: Borghese Holiday Mini Kits, 4 minis per kit, .14 oz/ea

Price: $9.99/per kit

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Rite Aid, Walgreens

When you start to see the Christmas trees, lights and decor - you know the Holidays are right around the corner, which only means, exclusive gift sets! I'll be the first to admit, I'm a sucker for seasonal collections including this one from Borghese.

Each limited edition set includes four, small nail lacquers with Micronized Gemstones or what I'd like to call, Glitter. The mini sized bottle is accompanied with a pint size application brush that I had minor issues with. No biggie, but worth mentioning.

Are you ready for some swatches? Lets start with the first set called, Allegra.

Gold Glitter is a warm toned gold with gold glitter. It's much warmer than Nubar's 24K Nail Polish.

Red Glitter is a fabulous holiday color, it's an opaque red loaded with gold glitter. 

White Glitter is a frosting like white glitter with micro glitter that can be topped over any nail color or worn alone.

Black Glitter is a opaque black with silver glitter.

White glitter layered over Black glitter.

Next is the Serena Collection. 

Brown Glitter is a semi sheer brown/red with gold, red and silver glitter. If you love OPI's Holiday Glow like I do, you'll love this one. 

As soon as I swatched Green Duochrome, I knew we had a winner and a close dupe to Laura Mercier's Caviar Dreams. It's a gorgeous duochrome that switches from Gray, Green and Purple depending on the lighting. Really fabl!

 

Even though Borghese Green is a teensy bit more blue toned or tealish compared to Laura Mercier's, it's great alternative to the fabulous Caviar Dreams. 

Multi Color Glitter is a clear/sheer with blue, purple, gold and red glitter that's a close dupe to Sally Hansen's Rockstar Pink.  

Purple Shimmer is a vampy purple/plum with micro shimmer.

Overall, Great Sets! A perfect holiday gift for any fashionista. Each set includes trendy, up-to-date colors that are fabulous and unlike the typical package sets. Downside, I found the price of $9.99/set a bit high considering each bottle is only .14 oz. The smaller application brush gave me some minor issues. Micronized Gemstones or Glitter? Whatever the case, these are awesome! Borghese, we want full sizes!

My favorites: Green Duochrome, Brown Glitter, Red Glitter, Black Glitter and Gold.

What do you think of miniatures? Love them, Hate them? What's your favorites?

FEATURED - Monday, November 24th 2008

MAC and Hello Kitty: Let the Insanity Begin

You've heard the rumors for months now.  WWD sets the records straight for this highly anticipated collection we've all been waiting for.  Seriously, do you know how insane the demand is going to be for this collection?  Read more details below.

MAC has teamed up with Sanrio Global Consumer Products to create a Hello Kitty color cosmetics collection.  This new collection will arrive on MAC’s Web site Feb. 10, in North American stores on Feb. 12 and into overseas stores in March.

“We are thrilled to partner with a brand that shares the vision of offering an innovative, authentic and transforming experience to our loyal fan base,” said Janet Hsu, president of Sanrio. Sanrio’s worldwide retail sales of licensed products for 2007 is estimated at $5 billion.

While the 34-year-old Hello Kitty character is usually assumed to be a cat, she is actually a girl, according to Sanrio. And a girl without a mouth, so she “speaks from the heart,” the company said. “She may not have a mouth, but she’s going to sell a lot of lipstick,” cracked Demsey, noting that a waiting list for the items will go live on Jan. 7 at maccosmetics.com.

“To me, MAC Hello Kitty embodies the ultimate beauty icon,” said Jennifer Balbier, senior vice president of product development for MAC Worldwide. “She’s sweet and sexy, slightly edgy, and appeals to a wide range of customers. We wanted to reflect that through a sweet side, but also something slightly mischievous when it came to the colors. I started out by creating a palette of pinks, since they fit and always trend well in the spring. And this look is so much about the eyes that we did two eye shadow quads.” The Lucky Tom quad has violet blue, brown, gold and pink-coral shades, while the Too Dolly palette has mint, blue-silver, pale pink and magenta shades.

“We incorporated glitter eyeliners because she loves anything that twinkles, and we took the coral and hot pink theme and did pretty, poppy [colored] blush,” added Balbier.

While this collection is intended to have a sophisticated presentation, MAC hopes to appeal to younger fans with two shades of lip conditioners.

The Hello Kitty offerings fall into two collections: the Hello Kitty Colour Collection and the more high-end Hello Kitty Kouture. The bulk of the items are in the former category: six shades of lipstick with names like Fashion Mews and Strayin’, each $14; six Lipglass shades, each $14; and two tinted lip conditioners, $14.50 each; two eye shadow palettes, which each contain four shades and retail for $38; two shades of pigment are $19.50 each, and two Reflects Glitter stockkeeping units — one blue, one pink — are $17.50 each. Four Glitter Eye Liners, each $16.50, two shades of Beauty Powder, each $22; three shades of nail polish, each $11; a black mascara, $12, and false lashes, $12, round out the color offerings. Shades range from pinks and turquoises to lavenders and greens.

Hello Kitty Kouture is intended to be the high end of the collection. Two shades of Dazzleglass, each $28, each feature a reusable silver chain pendant with Hello Kitty outlined in white Swarovski crystals on black with a pink crystal bow. Sheer Mystery Powder, $90 and available in three shades, is packaged in a silver powder compact with Hello Kitty outlined in white Swarovski crystals with a pink crystal bow on a black background.

“We wanted to have affordable luxury and a high-low aspect, so it made sense to do the Hello Kitty Colour Collection and Hello Kitty Kouture,” said Demsey.

The Hello Kitty Colour items, a Petite Makeup Bag, $22, and a medium Makeup Bag, $35, will be in all doors, currently about 581 department and specialty stores in North America including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, as well as MAC’s 138 freestanding stores in North America and at maccosmetics.com. Internationally, the items will be in 1,307 doors in 69 countries, including 296 MAC freestanding stores outside North America. Hello Kitty Kouture will be available at MAC stores and maccosmetics.com only. At the maximum, the collection will be available for eight weeks.

A plush doll, $42; purse mirror, $22, and three-brush collection, $49.50, will be available at MAC stores, Nordstrom doors and maccosmetics.com only. A mirrored key clip, $16; beaded bracelet, $34, will be sold in MAC retail stores and at maccosmetics.com only, and a tote, $45 and soft vanity kit, $55, will be exclusive to maccosmetics.com. These items are intended to animate the counter presentation and create an entire Hello Kitty world at retail, Gager noted.

While none of the executives would discuss sales projections, industry sources estimated that the limited edition MAC Hello Kitty collection could do upwards of $12 million in North American retail sales. That projection is slightly larger than that of the hit Barbie collection.

In-store visuals, shot by Nick Knight, show the polar opposite aspects of the collection. One is an image of a blonde model holding a black vinyl Hello Kitty doll, which will be part of the accessory line. The other visual is what Gager terms “more of a dominatrix creature.” The point, said Gager, is to show that makeup can be transformative. Makeup was done by Val Garland, with hair by Sam McKnight.

And Demsey promises the surprises aren’t over yet. “There will be more products to come in the next three months with this partnership,” he said.

Ladies - start saving up!

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 - 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 - Tuesday, December 2nd 2008

Coming Soon: China Glaze Romantique for Spring

For Spring 2009, China Glaze introduces the Romantique Collection.  A sensual collection of twelve metallic chrome textures due to set release in the beginning of Janurary 2009.

The Romantique collection is split into two seperate releases just like the Rodeo Diva collection.  Warm palette consists of yellow, browns, and oranges while the cool palette consists of greens, blues, and purples.

Check out some sneak peek swatches from the ladies at E-polish and All Lacquered Up.

FEATURED - Friday, December 5th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Revlon in Jaded

TGIF!  Hope your having a fabulous Friday!  Revlon's nail polish in Jaded is another steal I picked up on my Big Lots shopping spree and my NOTD for yesterday.  Sorry guys - I was slammed and didn't get a chance to post this.

Described as a mint green shade with shimmer - that's quite different than any shade I own.  Application was perfect.  Revlon has the bomb formula - I never seem to have any problems.

Did you guys know Big Lots, Dollar Stores or any other discount stores have rare and discontinued nail polish colors?  It's TRUE!  They do and lots of them.  Everytime I go out of town or on vacation one of my priorities is hitting up Dollar Stores or Big Lots.  Not only will you find rare colors, but ridiculously cheap! 

 

Here's my cat, Luv, she's such a wus!  This weekend we'll be painting our kitchen cabinets and let me tell you I am SO not looking forward to that.  Actually, I'm dreading it.  The only thing I love painting is nails!

Have a great weekend and try to stay sane while dealing with the holiday madness!

FEATURED - Monday, December 8th 2008

Nail Trends: Loreal Goes White for Winter

 

Loreal's latest Winter makeup display, Your Golden Moment featuring the gorgeous Beyonce is a collection of gold and brown eye shadow quads, peachy lipstick and glosses and two winter white nail polishes.

First up Satin Starlet, a crisper and brighter white compared to Chanel's white satin and a great alternative to the limited edition shade.  Suprisingly, I was able to get this accomplished with three coats and hardly streaking for a sheer.

See more swatches below.

    

Premiere Pearl was my favorite from this collection.  A white with pinkish - green iridescent pearl that dried to a satin texture and had fairly good color pay-off. 

Both these shades are now available at stores and retail around $4.99 each.

FEATURED - Thursday, December 11th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Barielle Date Night

 

Barielle's new winter shade, Date Night is such a fabulous green color - a nail polish of the day post was much deserved.  Since the sun's been MIA for a week now *sigh*, I haven't been able to officially swatch my Barielles and couldn't hold out any longer.

Wow, this one's insanely gorgeous!  Rich, opaque, and packed with tons of color.  Application was perfect in two coats or even with one thick coat.

The picture above was taken indoors with a flash and below outside in shade.   

Only 14 days left until Christmas - Have a great night!

FEATURED - Friday, December 12th 2008

New Colors: Sally Hansen Insta Dri Polishes

Sally Hansen introduces several new Insta-Dri ($4.99) shades this winter.  So, what is Insta-Dri?  Exactly what the name states - instantly drying nail polish.  It may not be instantly, but it's pretty darn close and probably the fasting drying drug store nail polish out there.

There's so much to go over with these Insta-Dri's that I'm just going to list the positives and negatives.  Usually, I don't recommend fast drying nail polish to anyone that has trouble with the three swipe rule. But, with these you dont' have to worry about three swipes, it's meant for one or two and it's easily accomplished with the large manly brush.

Positive                                                     Negative

A Variety Rich, Pigmented Colors  Fast Drying for quick on-the-go Mani's  One or two coats to be Opaque  Lasts a good 5 days, esp with a topcoat

Some colors are Thick and Goopey  Tapered, wide shaped manly brush  May not be mistake proof for some  $4.99 - $5.99 for .31oz

Jumpin' Jade - darkened green with subtle shimmer much like Misa's Toxic Seduction, Blazing Blue - navy blue with subtle aqua shimmer, Uptempo Plum - darkened plum with purple shimmer, Pronto Purple - violet purple red and purple shimmer. 

Toxic seduction isn't quite an exact dupe, but it's the closest color in my collection to compare.  Jumpin Jade is much more pigmented and has a tiny bit more blue.

The tapered, odd size brush is mainly the downside of these insta-dri's.  My nail beds are fairly small, so you can imagine my disappiontment when I first laid eyes on this brush. But, there's a upside to this story. Looks can be deceiving. 

I can understand what the folks at Sally Hansen were going for when they designed this brush.  "Since it's super fast drying, you'll need a wide brush that can coverage in less than three swipes.

At first, I thought my small nail beds were going to be the disadvantage, but they actual ended up being the advantage in my case.  The brush was a little tricky to figure out at first, but I was able to swipe in two coats since my beds are small (center swipe then swirl from right then left - try to swirl with the shape of the tapered brush). That's how I apply mine.        

The Insta-Dri polishes is a pernament Sally Hansen procut and is available at most stores. What do ya'll think?

Love these? Click here to check out some Limited Edition summer 09 bright shades.

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

Holiday 08: Chanel Moscou Collection Swatches

Chanel's Moscow - Moscou collection introduces three new exclusive limited editions inspired by Russia's fashion.

Let's get down to business because I know you guys are dying to know.

Are all three shades beautiful?  Of course.  Unique?  Somewhat, but for the most part, not really.  Must Haves? Probably not. Depending on your current money situation.

My Favorites are Nuit De Russie and Or De Russie.  Must Have: Nuit De Russie.

The formulas are rich, opaque and only require two coats for each color.  You could possibly get by with one coat due to the thickness.  Not overly thick - just perfect.  No reason to add thinners or anything like that.

I'll be posting all possible dupes from my collection in the next couple days. 

The big question that's on everyone's mind? Does this look like Wagon Trail and Wnw Stunner?  Yes.  Looking at both Wagon Trail and Stunner compared to Ore De Russie, you'd think their different.  The shimmer in Stunner and Wagon Trail is distinctly gold toned and Or De Russia is bronze almost resembling a brown base rather than black.  When applied, it's hard to tell the bronze and gold shimmer apart from each other.

First, let me clarify that these aren't exact dupes.  Just extremely close and probably not recognizable to the naked eye.  I'd say pass on this want to save some cash and opt for China Glaze's Wagon Trail for $4.99.

 

 Inside Flash.

Fue De Russie is a black based polish with maroon and very subtle pink shimmer.  Both Feu and Ore have fine micro glitter shimmer and Nuit has more of a chunkier heavier glitter.

What distinguishes this from any other comparison is the maroonish shimmer.  CG Lubu Heels, Nicole Black Cat-cha Later, Petites Black Rouge are all "red" based shimmers.  Even though there's some subtle pink in there, I still would classify this as a "maroon" shimmer.

 Inside Flash.

Nuit De Russie is truely the bread winner from the Moscou collection.  Described as a black based polish loaded down with teal and subtle green chunky glitter.  Now, when I say "chunky"glitter, it's not as heavy as your probably thinking,  just more so compared to the other two from this release.

If you were to splurge on only one shade, I'd recommend this one.  It's gorgeous!  The chunkier shimmer makes this oh so fab.  Maybe not so unique compared to Sinful's What's your name or Nicole's Blues in the Night except Chanels has tons more shimmer with an added touch of subtle green.

The Moscou collection retails for $30 each and is only available online at Chanel.com or at their Boutiques.  Most of these colors are not available at the makeup counters.  It's going to be the same routine as the Robertson Blvd collection.  I'd call first before making a trip.  Stay tuned for the comparisons.

Want more Chanel? Check out their latest Purple Craze for Spring 09!

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 23rd 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: OPI in Jasper Jade

Merry Christmas Eve, everyone!  OPI in Jasper Jade was my nail polish of the day this past Sunday.  I've been extremely busy dealing with the holiday madness, I forgot to post this rare beauty.

Usually, I don't like to post rare hard to find colors because their just that, hard to find with a ridiculous price tag attached.  But, I just couldn't resist this dreamy forest green stunner.

This is undoubtedly my favorite all time green and one of my prize possessions in my collection - even beating out Rainforest, another one my favoirtes.

These next three days are going to be jammed packed because we have three, yes, three Christmas events.  Tomorrow, we'll be spending time with my husband's mom. Thursday his dad's and Friday at my house with my parents.

By that time, I'll be literally drained.  Heck, I'm drained now just thinking of it.  Have a great Christmas Eve and Xmas! Merry Christmas, Ho Ho Ho! 

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 - Thursday, August 20th 2009

OPI Fall Matte collection: Review, Swatches

This Fall, OPI introduces the Matte collection, a release of six current OPI shades available in a non glossy, matte finish. Each bottle is included with an instruction tag that states the following:

• Matte by OPI does not wear as long as original OPI Nail Lacquer.
• Do not use base coat, top coat, drying products, or hand lotion when wearing matte.
• Do an all Matte nail. Or do a Matte nail with matching Glossy tip.

Before we get to the details, let's discuss what this means. It's time to toss that rule book out the window because skipping a base coat would be a bad idea. You don't want your nails super stained. If you can hunt down a no shine base coat, that would be best. I've had better luck using a ridge filler for my base.

As far as hand lotion, just be sure to wipe your nails off with a tissue or cotton pad to avoid that shiny, satin finish.

Application is the challenging part. Every matte polish I've tested is super fast drying, which may create problems for the habitual coater. The good news, OPI's wide brush makes it easier to accomplish three brush strokes. Anymore than that, you'll notice streak lines in your application.

Ready for some swatches guys?

Alpine Snow, a white chalky flatte matte. This reminds me of a winter snowy morning when the snow is intensely bright to look at.  

As much as Gargantuan Grape looks minty green in my swatches, it's not. It's a tad bit more yellow based and has that chalky texture.

La-Pazatively Hot is true to the name! A gorgeous hot pink matte with shimmer that's one of my faves from the collection.

 You Don't Know Jacques, a mushroom brown taupe chalky matte.

Lincoln Park after Dark, a vampy blackish purple matte. 

As much as I'd wish Russian Navy was a shimmer like the original, I still love it. A flatte navy blue  matte.

The matte collection is now available at Professional Salons and online at the E-tailers. Have a wonderful night!

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 - 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.