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Matte

Tuesday, January 15th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: A Mei Review and Swatches

A Mei Amore! Growl!  Can I just say how impressed I am over this collection!  For starters, the details on the eye shadow palettes are incredible!  Beautiful stitching!  And, the packaging is to die for, of course!  The Biggest hit of this collection, that you will hear me raving on about, is the lipstick, Siss!  OMG!  If you love neutrals, you have to have this lipstick!  In my personal opinion, it is the best true "nude" lipstick out there!  But, I knew this lipstick was going to be a hit because it sold out in a matter of hours online.  

LIPSTICKS: Siss, A Muted golden beige (satin).  This is a completely nude lipstick.  When I hear the term "nude," the first thing that comes to mind is Christian Louboutin nude high heel shoes.  And, that is exaclty the color of this lipstick.  It is not sheer whatsoever, it is a matte to satin lipstick.  I have been on a hunt for a true nude beige lipstick for so long, and I am so excited about this!  This literally sold out in a matter of hours when MAC released it online.  Good news is MAC has it back online, and it's only a limited supply, So don't miss out!  Ruby Woo, A Vivid blush red (matte).  This is a very pretty and intense matte red lipstick.  I would almost have to describe it as a Christina Auguilera red.  I love bold red colors, so I was quite pleased with the color also.

LIPGLASS: She's a star, A Lustre-shined light neutral gold (Frost).  This is a must have with the Siss lipstick.  Since the lipstick is a matte to satin, the lipglass gives it a polished look, which is gorgeous.  Love Rules, A Fuchsia with white sparkle pearl.  This is more a a dark fushia pink color with alot of shimmer.  The MAC website swatch looks completely lilac purple, and it's not at all!  It gives Ruby Woo that kick and shine it needs if you don't like matte lipstick.  For those who didn't get a chance at the Malibu Barbie lipglass, from the almost instantly sold out, Barbie loves MAC collection, well Love Rules is VERY VERY similar.  The only difference is Love Rules is just a tad bit darker, but, just as shiny and beautiful as Malibu Barbie Lipglass.  I'm going to try to get a swatch up today comparing Love Rules and Malibu Barbie.

EYE SHADOWS: Bold Eyes. Three shades of Eye Shadow Venus (S), Freshwater (VP), and Carbon in a compact featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei’s native Taiwan embroidered onto a plaque insert.  Venus and Freshwater are MAC standard colors.  Freshwater was my favorite out of these colors.  Neutral Eyes, Three shades of Eye Shadow Vanilla (V), Mulch (V), and Brown Down (VX) in a black compact featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei’s native Taiwan embroidered onto a plaque insert.  All three are MAC standard colors.  Overall, the eye shadows packaging was more impressive than the colors.  But, if you don't have these colors, it's well worth it.  A 213 SE eye brush is included in both palettes.

Overall, I loved this collection.  Buy worthy is the lipsticks and lipglasses.  If you love nude, and I do mean "nude" Siss lipstick is for you.  It can also be spiced up by a pink or peachy lipglass that would look great.  I love this color so much,  that I'm going to order me another one before they are gone!  Update: The Siss lipstick sold out AGAIN, in just hours after MAC recieved some in stock! Ruby Woo lipstick has also sold out.  If you had a chance to get this, please let me know how you like it!

{Photo via: Steph's Closet}

FEATURED - Friday, December 28th 2007

The Wonders of Photoshop: Before and After

The wonders of Adobe's Photoshop.  Here are two very noticeable examples of what the miracle program can do.  Everything you see from Magazines to Billboards are using this program for retouching.  Cosmetic Surgeons owe a big "Thanks" to Adobe's Photoshop for the HUGE increase of sales over the last five years. 

The fact of the matter is we are portraying this picture perfect image that isn't so perfect after all.  Sure, it would be nice to stop the aging process, but, that's NEVER going to happen.  This is a part of life that we will never be able to control (thanks to adam and eve for picking the apple).  Let's just face it, we age, get over it already!  Young teens and adults around the world idolize these celebrities.  Are we sending out the wrong message?  YES!  I would much rather open a magazine and see someone natural then see a photo completely retouched. 

To all the parents out there.  Please teach your young teens the importance of self confidence at an early age.  Show your children these examples, and keep them away from magazines!  Magazines only bring self confidence down.  To make matters even worse, school photographers are now offering retouching options available on school pictures for additional costs.  Are you kidding me?!  That's right, even the schools are supporting this! 

Anyone that is considering plastic surgery, please research the doctor and procedure thoroughly.  Do background checks on the doctor and make sure he/she hasn't been involved in any malpractice suits.   Cosmetic Surgery is like any other operation, complications can arrise at anytime.  For example:  Kanye West's mother, Donda West, died from plastic surgery complications back in November 2007.  Such a horrific tradegy for Kanye West and his family and friends.  To find out further, Jan Adams, Donda West cosmetic surgeon, was involved in 9 malpratice suits.  Even the most expensive, most qualified plastic surgeons cannot promise a surgery without complications.

Saturday, January 5th 2008

Mac Cosmetics: Sculpt and Shape Collection

MAC Cosmetics released Sculpt and Shape collection on Dec 26, 2007.  A more provocative foray into the fine art of sculpture.  Silky, jet-milled highlighting powder followed up with matte contour powder finish to embolden the shapes and volumes of your own personal work of modern art.  Be an artist in full command of your medium.

Sculpt and Shape Powders.  A duo-pan shaded compact featuring a contour and a highlight powder in shades selected to complement each other. Professional formula. Jet-milled, ultra-smooth to apply: provides almost imperceptible shading. Use to shape and define the facial planes, or define the shape of the eye.  Available in 4 different colours.

These powders are not new to MAC.  They are available at most of the MAC PRO stores, but sold as two seperate colors.  So, you are getting 2 for the price of 1, without the double price tag.  I've been wanting to try these ever since they were released at the PRO store.  But, everytime they have sold out like hotcakes.

MAC also released three new makeup brushes in this collection. 

MAC 138 Tapered Brush.  Domed brush of ultra-soft, natural fibres featuring a slightly pointed tip with round chiselled sides. Specially designed to streamline and enhance the makeup technique of sculpting and shaping.  US$52.00.

 

 

MAC 169 Angled Brush.  Synthetic, angled for precision, this brush is specially designed for the application/blending of face or cheek product.
US$32.00.

 

 

 

MAC 223 Eye Blending Brush.  Synthetic, tube-shaped with tapered tip, this brush is specially designed for the application/blending of face or eye product. US$28.00.

 

 

Check out my review and swatches for MAC's Sculpt and Shape Collection.

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?

Wednesday, January 9th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: A Mei Makeup Collection

A Taiwanese pop sensation, the yin-yang of her personality are celebrated in this iconic signature colour collection. Bold for her rocker side. Low-key and neutral for those soft pop moods. This is A Mei, in all her shades - up close and personal.

A Mei: 3 Neutral Eyes (LE). Three shades of Eye Shadow in a black compact featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei’s native Taiwan embroidered onto a plaque insert. Each colourwave in the collection has its own colour signature: Blue/Fuchsia for Bold, Red/Yellow for Neutral.  Limited Edition.  US $30.00.

A Mei: 3 Bold Eyes (LE).  Three shades of Eye Shadow in a black compact featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei’s native Taiwan embroidered onto a plaque insert. Each colourwave in the collection has its own colour signature: Blue/Fuchsia for Bold, Red/Yellow for Neutral.  Limited Edition.  US $30.00.

MAC For A Mei Lipstick.  MAC Lipstick featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei’s native Taiwan screened onto the case.  Two colors available: Siss, A Muted golden beige (satin), and Ruby Woo, A Vivid blush red (matte).  Ruby Woo is pictured.  I just checked the MAC site and Siss lipstick has already SOLD OUT!  Be sure you grab these quick!

MAC For a Mei Lipglass (LE).  Limited Edition Lipglass featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei's native Taiwan screened onto the cap.  Two colors available: She's A Star, A Lustre-shined light neutral gold (Frost), and Love Rules,  A Fuchsia with white sparkle pearl (Frost).  US $14.00.  Love Rules is pictured.

MAC, you are killing me and my bank account, literally!  The, A Mei Collection, is now available online.  Not only did the A Mei Collection release today, So, did the N Color Collection!  My Wallet just can't take this abuse!  But, I just can't say NO!  Really, there should be a some kind of AAA classes for MAC, because I know there's alot of us out there!

This morning, at 5am to be precise, I was writing an article for my blog, and I saw the MAC Cosmetics email pop up.  It went down hill from that point on!  I knew MAC would be releasing these two collections about the same time.  I ordered the entire, A Mei Collection, as soon as I received my email.  The MAC Sales Associate told me last week that this was limited production collection which basically means, it will sell out super fast.  Siss, A Muted golden beige (satin) lipstick (not pictured), has already SOLD OUT online in a matter hours!  If your a MAC lover, you know never to wait until the last minute on these limited edition collections!   And, I am so glad I snatched these up! Their has been countless times I've debated on something and ended up missing out on it, because I waited to long.  And, I forbid to pay those outrageous prices on Ebay.

One thing I'm really excited to see is the eye shadow palettes (even though most are standard MAC colors), and the Siss lipstick that sold out in a matter of hours online.  "Blue and nudes are definitely the "IT' color for Spring/Summer 2008.  

Check out my review and photo swatches for MAC A Mei Collection.

Monday, January 28th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Slimshines Relaunch

MAC Cosmetics introduces the relaunch of Slimshine.  Product Description: A new Lipstick combining creamy emolliency with a unique sheer colour pay-off. Provides the shine and moisturizing comfort of a gloss but with a smooth, non-sticky finish. Distinctive on and off. Comes packaged in its own stylish extra-long lipstick case.  Release is expected February 7th, 2008.  Cost USD $14.00 each. 

If Slimshines sound familiar, well they are.  These were introduced last year and were quite a hit!  If you love lipstick but, you feel it's too dry, then Slimshines are for you!  I had a chance to try them last year, and I absolutely loved them!  I love lip gloss but, feel it's too sheer sometimes, and lipstick is just too dry, so this is perfect for me.  The only BAD thing about these lipstick wonders is, they go really, really FAST!  And at, $14 bucks a pop, not sure if it's really worth it.  But, I still will be picking up one or two at least.

7 Brand new colors are being released along with 13 repromoted ones from the original release date, for a total of 20.  See all colors below.

Assertive Warm brown with golden pearl (Matte).

Grenadier Deep blue-red coral (Cream).

Intimidate Creamy plum (Cream).

Missy Pastel coral (Cream).

Rock Out Clear blue with gold pearl (Cream).

Think Tan Deep brown with gold pearl (Matte).

Voile Canary yellow with gold pearl (Matte).

Repromotes:  Bare, Cocoamour, Funshine, Gaily, Long Stem Rose, Lovey Dover, Most Wanted, Mousse, Pleasing, Prudeaux, Urgent!

 Check out MAC Slimshine product swatches.

{Source via: Specktra}

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}

Saturday, February 2nd 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Upcoming Collection Dates

An MAC ADDICT Ultimate Resource for 2008 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Euristocrats - 4/1/08 European Stores only 

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

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

Patisserie - Sheer creamy neutral pink (lustre)

Barcelona Red - Frosty deep coral (frost)

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

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

Going Dutch - Frosty mid tone pink (frost)

Saint Germain - Pastel pink (amplified creme)

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

Ramblas Red - Blue red (amplified creme)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the Review and Photo Swatches. 

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

Check out the Review and Photo Swatches. 

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

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

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

Check out the photo swatches and review. 

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

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

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

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

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

Check out the review and photo swatches. 

Gold Fever - 9/25

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

Check out the review and photo swatches. 

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

Check out the review and photo swatches.

Saturday, February 9th 2008

MAC for Fafi: Fafi T-Shirt and Product Photos

Look what I stumbled upon today at my MAC store!  And, she thought she could get away without a picture, I think not!  What a great way to start the day.  My trip to the mall today was so eventful, and I'm excited to bring some back some news!  Not only did I get to preview Fafi, and Slimshine, drum roll please....Chanel Summer 2008 Makeup Collection!  Yes, that's right another collection and it's not even spring yet!  Bring on the summer!  Let me give you a little hint, Hello PINK!  A limited edition eyeshadow quad, and one of the colors is an awesome bright pink.  Two new nail colors are introduced in this collection.  Flamingo, a bright pink and Antilope a golden brown.  Sometime in March this collection will be releasing.  I'm going to need crazy pills for all these collections!

Initially, when MAC lauched the Fafi website I wasn't really attracted to the t-shirts.  It was just something I bypassed because, for the price, I can get a quad or two lipsticks, etc.  But, they are SO cute!  Seriously, when you see them on, their adorable!  This shirt literally speaks "Bad Ass!"  Espically with some Black Satin nail polish.  If your somewhat interested in these, do not wait, they will go fast being an Online Exclusive only!

After seeing all the Fafi swatches, and reading all the information from the MAC website, I have a pretty long lost of items that I'm interested in, and can't wait to play around with colors on February 14th.  I'm trying to avoid to crowd on release day.

Firstly, being a lipstick gal, I'm mostly excited about them.  The MA said really good things about the texture, so I'm really hoping it's true!  There is 4 out of the 6 colors that I'm looking forward to trying out.  Eyeshadows are also a big thing for me.  I am loving the Fafi Quad 1.  But, I'm just not to sure about the Quad 2.  It's colors that I normally wouldn't pick out, but, I'm not knocking it down.  I'm having my MA do me up, and if it's a go, I'll definitely take pictures to show everyone.  As far as the merchandise, I'm ordering all that online.  I'm not even taking the chance.  Last year, everything sold out at my store in a matter of one hour, with the Barbie loves MAC collection.  And, this isn't the first time this has happened.  I'm hoping MAC releases it online early, like they usually do with other collections.  But, don't hold your breath, because who knows. I'll probably get all 3 dolls ($9.00 each, I thought they be alot more expensive), T-shirt, after seeing it today, and the scarve.  If you love to put scarves in your hair this is a must! 

Only, one more week left.  Stay tuned for more information.  Are you planning to purchase anything?  If so, do you already have a list?

Check out the Fafi collection product photos and Reviews; Part One and Part two.

Love the french artist?  Check out the MOB (most official bitches) Fafi inspired t-shirt.  Love this!

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.

Tuesday, February 26th 2008

MAC Cosmetics Fafi: Review and Swatches Part One

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out part two review and swatches.

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 11th 2008

Watch This: Our Beloved Urban Decay Primer

STOP!  Before you throw out that beloved bottle of Urban Decay primer potion, check this video out! 

My good friends, family, and well, basically everyone I know, swares by this miracle potion.  I on the other hand, have a difference of opinion when it come to the Primer Potion.  Yes, I'm going to be the black sheep here (no pun intended), I just hate the damn stuff!  I gave it to my mom, which she goes, goo-goo ga-ga over it!

I really think it's just a matter of opinion.  My holy grail eyeshadow primer is MAC paint pots, just because they work great with my skin and Urban Decay does not.  But, this is a problem.  Urban Decay needs to take this issue seriously!  We pay enough for beauty products, so, why in the hell do we have to cut the container, dig out the primer and find storage for it.  I can just see Urban Decay asking for a law suit here, espically when someone cuts their finger!  Please, please be very careful if you attempt to do this.

Is there anyone out there that doesn't like this stuff?

Thursday, March 13th 2008

My Current Obsession: Dior Pretty Charms

So, I was on my way to my local Dillards in Kenwood Mall.  I had one goal, to get a bottle of Chanel white satin nail polish and then run out as fast as I can!  Well, as ya'll can see that did not happen whatsoever.  As I was running outta there, the Dior makeup artist caught me, and when it comes to beauty I can't resist, you had me at hello!  Anyway, the makeup artist was great and I learned alot about Dior that I had never known before.  The only thing that really make me look twice was the limited edition Dior Pretty Charms, which retails for $40.  Keep in mind this is not a new product.  I beleive it made it's first debut back in 2006, and sold out instantly.  So, it's back by popular demand and only for a limited time!

What is it?  A couture inspired style with a heart shape locket that opens to two lip shades and a mirror. This locket contains one shade of lipstick in matte pink, and a shimmery bubblegum lip gloss.

What I like about it?  I love when I find a product that's not only fashionable and stylish but, is also versatile in so many ways.  Everything about this locket is so girly and feminine.  The crystals, the heart shape, and lip shades.  I love couture style, so this is defintely a must have is my book.  Now, I'll tell you how versatile this is!  A lipstick, lipgloss, mirror, charm bracelet, and a purse charm for $40!  5 uses, 1 product, equals Fabulous.  Overall, for what you get, it's truely a great deal.  The best to come is yet!  Check out the picture below.

Above is a picture of my holy grail Balenciaga bag I carry year-round (PS: I only have about 5 handbags total). If you love bag charms this is an absolute MUST!  I can't even count how many people have stopped me, complimenting on Dior pretty charms!  It's truely fabulous, espically when used as a bag charm!  And, the lippies are easily accessed so you don't have to dig around in your purse!  Check out the picture below being used as a charm bracelet.

Above is a picture demostrates Dior pretty charms being used as a charm bracelet.  It's a little heavy on the wrist, but, wouldn't be any heavier if you were stacking bracelets or bangles.  I'll probably be using this as a bag charm mostly, but, looks super hot paired up with a chunky watch, so who knows.

What do you guys think?  Is this something you would wear?

FEATURED - Thursday, April 24th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Naughty Nauticals Color Story

Get ready to set sail to MAC Cosmetics for the Naughty Nauticals Collection, set to release on May 1st.  Get your haulin list ready and your checkbook!  Check out the color story and promo images.

Lipstick

• Buoy-o-buoy - Sheer light pink with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (glaze)
• Party Mate - Creamy neutral pink brown (lustre)
• Ahoy, There - Sheer midtone pink (lustre)
• Port Red - Yellow red with gold pearlized pigments (frost)

Lustreglass

• Hey Sailor - Blue plum pink with white pearlized particles (lustre)
• Ensign - Peachy pink with white and gold pearlized pigments (lustre)
• Love Knot - Sheer pink with blue and white duochrome (lustre)
• Bateaux - Neutral brown peach with white frost (lustre)

Eyeshadow

• Shore Leave - Pale frosty cream (veluxe pearl)
• Illegal Cargo - Mid-tone frosty greyed plum (frost)
• Submarine - Mid-tone frosty clear blue (frost)
• Meet the Fleet - Matte midnight blue (matte)
• Pandamonium - Frosty gunmetal with whtie pearlized pigments (lustre)

Pigment

• Lark About - Sheer frosty white blue (frost)
• Mutiny - Sky blue with gold pearlized pigments (frost)
• Lovely Lily - Lilac with red pearlized pigments (frost)
• Bell-bottom Blue - Frosty blue with white pearlized pigments (frost)

Technakohl

• Smoothblue - Ocean blue wtih frost
• Greyprint - Rich pewter grey with frost

Pro Lash

• Coal Black - Black Mascara

Nail Lacquer

• Shirelle - Classic red (cream)
• Naughty Nautical - Dark royal blue (frost)

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

FEATURED - Monday, April 28th 2008

Chanel Palma Lipstick: The Perfect Orange Color

Product: Chanel Aqualumiere in Palma

Price: $26.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Nordstrom, Neimans

Recommend: Yes

Chanel introduced four new limited edition lipshine colors along with the release of their new Aqualumiere gloss collection.  I personally never tried lipshine before mainly because of the price tag, but I knew deep down it only be a matter of time.  Well, that time is up!  While I was swatching the Aqualumiere gloss collection, I was instantly drawn to this gorgeous abricot frost color and couldn't resist.

Coral/Oranges are making a huge comeback for this summer.  In fact, most of my recent makeup purchases have involved an orange based colored lipstick or gloss.  And, many upcoming summer makeup collection constist of orange and warmer colors.  I espically can't wait for MAC's Neo Sci Fi Collection.

Palma is described as a peachy abricot frost.  And, isn't as orangey as it looks pictured above.   The color pay-off was excellent, and the texture was very smooth and moisturizing with SPF15, an added bonus.  Palma looks espically gorgeous with a sun kissed tan, and on darker skin tones.  I'm not used to round shape lipstick style but, found it very comfortable and easy to apply.  Overall, I was really impressed with the quality of Aqualumiere lipshine being my first impression.  It was long-lasting and keep my lips feeling luxurized!  Check out some coral comparisons below.

My Coral lipstick collection is constantly growing this season, and it's not even summer!   These are my three favorite coral based lipsticks that I absolutely love.  MAC Strawbaby, featured in the Fafi collection, is described as a Coral Rose with rainbow lustre and is similar to palma but, has a hint of pink.  MAC Lollipop Loving, featured in the Heatherette collection, is described mid-tone coral color with gold undertones, which is a lighter glaze and has more pink color pay-off.  Palma has a definite orange color pay-off compared to the others, which makes this color unique.  Check out the color swatches below.

 Check out the color swatched on my lips below....

It's such a pretty orange color for summer, I love it!

FEATURED - Thursday, May 1st 2008

Naughty Nauticals: Review, Swatches, Photos

 

Check out all the Naughty Nauticals collection swatches.  I will be writing up the review shortly, along with more photos!

Party Mate - A semi-sheer mid-tone pink lustre color that has light buildable coverage.  This has more color pay-off than Ahoy, There and is a tad bit darker. Ahoy, There! - A sheer dirty pink color with multi-dimensionel pearl that makes this a glaze.  This is the lightest color of the bunch. Port Red - A must have for red lipstick lovers!  A gorgeous ruby red with gold pearl which makes this a frost.  This is my favorite out of the bunch, and is very pretty. Buoy-O-Buoy - A creamy neutral beige color with pink undertones, that has buildable color.

 

The only color that really stood out to me was the gorgeous, Port Red.  The other colors have more of a " neutral-pink" pay-off, which I'm so over pink right now.  My makeup collection is heavily out numbered by pinks.

Ensign - A peachy pink with white and gold pearl.  This color appears more peachy than pink.  And, is a great all around color. Hey Sailor - A mauvey plum pink with white pearl.  Hey Sailor has the best color pay-off out of all the lustreglasses. Love Knot - A sheer pink with blue and white duochrome.  Love Knot is the sheerest of all the colors. Bateaux - A neutral brown peach with white frost.  Bateaux is my favorite color of the bunch.  It's a nice neutral color with a hint of peach.

The two colors I purchased were Hey Sailor and Bateaux.  Hey Sailor has good color pay-off and looks fab combined with Port Red lipstick.  Ensign is also a pretty color, but, Bateaux had more of a peach color pay-off which I opted for Bateaux.  Love Knot was very sheer on me but, I absoultey loved the blue and white duochrome, just wished it had better color pay-off.

Lark About - A sheer white frost pigment with blue undertones.  Bell Bottom Blue - A navy blue color with white pearl.  The white pearl gave this color more of a blue color with purple undertones. Lovely Lily - A soft lilac color with pink undertones.  The pink undertones gave this more of a softer color. Mutiny - A clean sky blue with gold pearl.  The gold pearl makes Mutiny not as bold, and less color pay-off.  This is my favorite out of the pigments.

Mutiny was the only pigment I purchased from the Naughty Nauticals collection.  I think this is a great color in general that everyone can wear.  It's not to bold or daring, it's a nice soft aqua color.

Shore Leave - A pale frosty ivory color with pink undertones, that has quite a bit of shimmer to it.  I really liked this color, it looks fab as a highlighter paired up with Illegal Cargo. Pandanonium - A frosty gunmetal color with white pearl. Illegal Cargo - A frost grey plum color that has more mavey-plum color pay-off.  Meet the Fleet - Midnight blue matte color.  I really did not like this color nor texture at all.  It was very blotchy when playing with the colors, and I was not impressed at all. Submarine - A beautiful mid tone blue color with frost that almost looks like a darker teal color.

I wasn't nearly as impressed with the eye shadows.  I felt Meet the Fleet and Pandanonium were very dull and boring to me.  The texture was very blocthy and hard to work with when I was swatching.  I purchased Shore Leave, Illegal Cargo and Submarine.  My favorite out of the eye shadows is Illegal Cargo.

Pigments vs Eye shadows.  I had a hard time deciding between the pigments and eye shadow colors, because they are somewhat similar.  But, I decided to go with the eye shadows because of the better color pay-off.  Illegal Cargo is much prettier and bolder purple than Lovely Lily.  And, Shore Leave is a pretty ivory white frost comparted to Lark About, which is more of a sheer white-blue pigment.

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 - Monday, May 12th 2008

Fall 2008 Beauty Reporter: Black Lips

Oh please, say it isn't so?!  Yep, that's right ladies and gent, black lips are "it" for this fall.  Back in February 2008, Lily Allen appeared at London's Fashion Show sporting a dark purple and black lip.  At that point, I kept close eye on this growing trend, and Mays issue of Allure confirmed it!  Black lips with matte skin and a bowl cut wig at Yves Saint Laurent. 

Plan on grabbing that Chanel Black Satin back out for Fall.  The goth look is back hardcore with dark lips, heavy darkened around the eyes, and of course Chanel Black Satin nail polish!  And, I thought black nail polish was bad!  I can positively say that I will not be sporting the black lip now or anytime.  But, then again, I never thought I would love black nail polish!

Yah or Nah to this fall trend?

FEATURED - Tuesday, May 13th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: New View Collection

MAC introduces New View collection.  A split personality of a powder with superfine seracite and a talc base to sheerly and subtly perfect the skin with dimensionality and mineralized starshine. Unlike most powders which are pressed into metal pans, the Mineralize Skinfinish is moulded onto round terracotta tiles and baked for 24 hours. The powder is made up of two parts, a natural portion for a matte finish and shimmer portion for buffed up highlights and overall face polish.

Light Medium/Natural & Shimmer - Pale Golden Beige/Warm Yellow Beige Medium/Natural & Shimmer - Soft creamy Beige/Light Peachy Pink  Medium Dark/Natural & Shimmer - Caramel/Light Tan Deep Natural & Shimmer - Deep Caramel/Mid tone Yellow Gold Deep Dark/Natural & Shimmer - Rich Golden Bronze/Deep Copper Bronze

The new view collection includes 5 shades of powder and one application brush.  This collection should hit MAC stores end of July/August.  Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available. 

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 - 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 - Wednesday, June 18th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: China Glaze IDK

I'm showing some love to one of my favorite brands, China Glaze.  IDK (I don't know) featured in the OMG collection was the shade I picked - a light lilac purple holographic polish.  The formula applied easily and dries to a matte finish.  A top coat is recommended if you desire that glossy finish.  The holographic colors are eye-catching and hard to caputre a true image. Check out the candid photo below.

If your not familiar with China Glaze's holographic polishes - well, they are much like OPI's Designer Series.  Not neccessary the same colors, just the same appearance.

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 - Thursday, June 19th 2008

Covergirl Tropical Fusion Quad: Review, Swatches

Covergirl may be a little late jumping on the bright makeup bandwagon, but, at least it's a start.  A few days ago, I blogged about Covergirls new promo ad for their summer makeup collection.  As predicted, I caved and purchased this tropical colored quad ($5.99) at CVS yesterday.

I debated purchasing this quad the entire time I was in CVS.  Mostly due to my recent purchase of covergirls eye enchancers in Gold Sizzle.  Being the very last on the entire display I wasn't going to pass this up.  Yeah, I'm weak at the knees when it comes to vibrant colors and makeup.

Overall, I was impressed more so with the tropical quad compared to the individual shades.  The teal and blue shimmery shades had fairly good color pay-off and was quite pretty.  I had high hopes for the orange shade because I really wanted it to work.  But, the pigmentation just wasn't there at all.  It was hardly noticeable on my NC30 skin.  You could substitue MAC's Fab & Flashy or another orange you prefer.  The yellowish/lime shade was a different nature than the other colors.  It was between a matte and satin texture that I really didn't care for and had ok color pay-off. 

The teal and blue shades are the highlight of the tropical fusion quad.  Very pretty and shimmery with good color pay-off all around.  See some more swatches below.

This is an big improvement from the standard neutral colored shades covergirl offers.  If they focus a little more on the pigmentation issues then we have a keeper.

UPDATE 6/26/08: After using this quad serveral times, I'm happy to report the teal and blue shades have fantastic color pay-off and those two colors alone are worth the purchase.

Love this Quad?  Click here for a chance to win it this month!

FEATURED - Thursday, June 26th 2008

Product Review: Loreal Infallible Gloss

Product: L'oreal Infallible Lipgloss

Price: $8.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Drugstores

Recommend: Yes

L'oreal introduces the first long wearing lipgloss in one step.  The claim:  No touch-ups. No top-coats. No fading. No feathering. Hydrating formula keeps your lips soft, smooth, shiny, and sexy for 6 long hours.  The patent applicator contours lips prescisely smooth, even, flawless application every time.  Infallible is available in 16 luminous shades.

Six hours is a pretty hefty claim for lipgloss.  So,  let's get down to the nitty gritty.  Bottom line - I haven't personally seen a lipgloss to last more than three hours and my collection is rather large consisting of at least 75 different brands.  Last night at Walmart I jumped at the chance to try this. 

Rebel Red, a vibrant red with subtle shimmer, is the color that was calling out to me.  Usually, I tend to lean towards darker shades because the pay-off is so much greater.  This baby was on my lips within a matter a minutes after leaving Walmart.

Pro's: Moisturizing, Shine, No Feathering, and the lasting power wasn't quite 6 hours - more like 3-4 hours, which is impressive.  However, I do warn with caution when applying more than once because it tends to get tacky if applied regularly.  The pointed shape applicator is really cool.  I was able to get in cracks and crevices with ease.

Con's: The staying power didn't live up to L'oreals 6 hour claim and the mirror was a nice try.  Loreal was kind enough to include a mirror, which is a great and all but, why oh why at the end of the cap? 

Check out the swatch below.

Overall, Infallible lived up to my expectations and anyone who fancy's gloss will really love this product.

FEATURED - Monday, July 7th 2008

Essie Summer Neon Collection: Swatches

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

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

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

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

  

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

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

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

Have a good monday ya'll!

FEATURED - 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 - 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 - Tuesday, August 5th 2008

Product Review: Givenchy Phenomen Mascara

Product: Givenchy Phenomen Eyes

Price: $27.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora

Recommend: Yes

We all want more.  Givenchy's new Phenomen Eyes gives you a whole lotta more. The product names certainly lives up to the expectations.  Givenchy's Patented revolutionary brush is absolutely fantastic in every angle.  After playing with this mascara for a couple of days - I realized the brush is just a matter of common sense.

Bottom line - Givenchy listened.  Fact: Most of us apply mascara using the ball of the mascara and not utilizing the actual brush.  In most cases, I'll always use the end to apply mascara because there is no room for a big bulky brush. Phenomen Eyes elimates all hassles.

Check out some product pictures below.

     

The application was incredibly easy.  Givenchy's sphere shaped brush lengthened, curled and seperated every lash with each stroke.  Not only is the brush fantastic - the formula is just as wonderful.  My lashes felt light and very touchable - I couldn't beleive how soft after applying several coats.

Some more pictures below. 

The only disadvantage is the price tag of $27.00.  However, you can make phenomen last quite a while because it's not meant to be consistency coated. 

FEATURED - Tuesday, August 12th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: MAC Cosmetics Perplexing

Today's nail polish of the day is MAC Cosmetics in Perplexing that was recently introduced in the Lustre Twins collection.  A vibrant purple color with blue and pink shimmer that dries to a thin matte - satin finish.  Now, the bad news - the formula is plain awful.  Honestly, I lost track of how many coats in my photo swatches - yes, it was that many!  Since it applies rather thin, it's easy to pile on the applications.

Perplexing texture reminds me of Rainy Day from the Storm Signals collection but, in a shimmer version.  It applied very blotchy and the visible brush strokes was very disappointing.  It's a great color but bad execution MAC.

Check out more swatches below.

Tonight is the MAC launch party for Cult of Cherry collection and I'm uber excited, woot woot.  Godiva choclate cherries and campagne - yum!  And the best part the Cult of Cherry collection - a much anticipated collection for fall.  Dark, vampy colors are right my alley - can't wait.  Hopefully, I'll have my swatches up tomorrow morning - if I make it outta there alive.

FEATURED - Wednesday, August 13th 2008

MAC Cult of Cherry: Review and Swatches

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

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

Check out some swatches below. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Friday, August 15th 2008

MAC 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 - Wednesday, August 20th 2008

Lip Looks: MAC Cult of Cherry

I've had sometime to play around with the Cult of Cherry collection now and I have to say the Lip products rock.  The color pay-off is amazing and the different combinations are endless.  The bold red shade of cult of cherry lipglass spices up every lip combo.  My particular favorite is Bing or Kirsch topped off with Cult of Cherry Lipglass.  Grant it, Bing is very dark and probably not suitable for most people but, the red gloss adds a whole lot of jazz.

Check out some lip looks below.

 

Rapturous is a perfect cherry matte shade that I'm very pleased with.  This was one of the shades that my MA mistakenly gave me and I'm so glad she did.

 

 

The Cult of Cherry collection is now available at maccosmetics.com and freestanding stores on August 21st.  I'll be adding more lip combo's to the post in the next few days - stay tuned!

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

FEATURED - Friday, August 22nd 2008

Product Review: Chocolate Cherry Lip Glaze

 

Product: Lip Glaze in Chocolate Cherry

Price: $4.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Drugstores, Grocery

Recommend: Depends

Sally Hansen's comfort shine lip glaze is an vita fruit complex that sores and beautifies distressed lips.  Filled with vitamins, moisturizers and soothing extracts creates a cushion of moisture delivered right to your lips.  A sophisiticated package with no mess applicator.

Ever since MAC released the Cult of Cherry collection, I've been craving chocolate cherries.  So, when I stumbled across Sally Hansen's comfort shine in Chocolate Cherry - I was all over it!  A chocolate cherry flavored lip gloss filled with vitamins, moisturizers and no-mess applicatior - y u m m y!

The Good: Extremely pigmented and excellent color pay-off.  The deep chocolate burgandy shade is filled with gold shimmer and suitable for most.  Trendy color for fall and a great topper for MAC's Cult of Cherry lipsticks/mattenes.  My lips felt completely moisturized and loved.

Check out some pictures below.

The Bad: Now, you know there had to be bad news.  I can't tell you how incredibly disappionting this was because it's such a great product as far as the gloss goes.  My issue is the applicator. It's plastic, small and flimsy - just not practical for me or my lips.  I had trouble accomplishing an even application - very blotchy like.  The chocolate cherry flavor didn't bother me but, I could possibly see a difference of opinion.

One main reason Sally Hansens lip glaze intrigued me was the no-mess applicator.  So, you can see the great disappiontment by my low rating.  That's the main reason MAC's Tendertones and Loreal Jelly Balm didn't go over - who wants to put gloss on with their finger?!  hello, bacteria!

Overall, this is beyond a great gloss as far as texture, color pay-off, vitamins and moisture.  The staying power is your typical gloss but with total hydration your lips will crave.  I've read a couple reviews on this product - some good and some bad.  It might vary between personal preference.

Sally - perfect the applicator and you have a true bread winner here!  Heck, just put it in a regular tube!  As far as my supply, I still plan on using it and applying with an q-tip like applicator or a lip brush because the color's fab.  For my swatch above my good ole pinky finger came in handy.

FEATURED - Thursday, August 28th 2008

Givenchy Prisme Quad in Precious Shimmer

Prisme Again! Eyeshadow Quartet
Summary: This chic compact contains two different powder textures, both of them very fine, gentle and creamy, for a variety of effects: matte, semi-matte, satiny, iridescent, or pearly shine - choose your weapon! The two matte textures are in the two upper pans of the case and the two iridescent textures are in the two lower pans. The sexy, bi-level mini case also contains three integrated applicators: two shadow shaders and a liner brush.

Precious Shimmers ($49,50) is another item I purchased from the Dandy collection.  Once again, Givenchy products are mini-me size.  This is frustrating because their products are very luxurious and gorgeous.  But, I just can't justify spending $49.50 or recommending it.  Well, unless you have some extra $$$ here and there.

Check out the swatches below.

The two greys had excellent color pay-off.  Pink and gold was so-so on my NC-30 skin.   The metallic sheen isn't as shiny as your typically "shimmer based" shades.  Both grey's combined with MAC's Black Tied or Carbon will make a hot smokey-eye look.  So, there's a couple uses Givenchy Prisme Eyes could go for - if only you can get over the price tag!

   

One feature that tickled my fancy - it's small and compact.  A perfect pick up and go you can use for eye shadow, highlighter and even lip gloss (along with vaseline).  And the sponge applicators brushes aren't cheap - you can actually navigate through them if you have to.

 

Ahh, so small and so cute!

Pretty small, huh?  Fits in the palm of my hand.

FEATURED - Saturday, September 27th 2008

MAC Suite Array: Photo Swatches, Review

MAC Cosmetics introdcues the Suite Array collection this Fall.  This new collection that features eight new eye shadow duos and pearlglide eyeliners.  In each eye shadow suite two colors are featured to accent and contrast to compliment each other.  The pearlglide eyeliners are cream kohl like with a sparkly reflective finish.

Overall, the eye shadow suites are highly disappionting.  Both shades in the suites were blotchy and matte like texture.  So, if your not a big fan of mattes (like myself), I would definitley say pass on this one.  However, the pearlglide eyeliners are, oh so dreamy.  They apply smooth like butter and have excellent pigmentation and color pay-off.

Check out the swatches below.

 

All the pearlglide eyeliner colors were fabulous even though I didn't pick up any yet.  I'm still waiting for some clarification on the waterline usage.   My MA said the only place it wasn't safe was your lips and she was wearing them in her waterlines.  So, I'm a bit confused here because I've heard it's not safe.  Once I get a firm answer, I'll let you guys know.

Up next, the awful Suite Array eyeshadows.  yuck, yuck and yuck!   I know I shouldn't be hating on these things but, they don't even compare to MAC's eye shadow singles.

 

The Suite Array collection is now available on maccosmsetics.com for a limited time.

FEATURED - Thursday, October 9th 2008

Chanel Holiday 08 Collection: Product Images

Chanel's Holiday collection is all about Glitz and Glamour.  Gorgeous Gold's and browns makes the perfect combination for a gorgeous - but, not over the top look this holiday season!  And, if it wasn't for my empty pocket book, I would have stocked up on so much more!  But, sadly, Chanel adds up faster than my wallet can even fathom.

Check out the photo's below.  I'll be going more in depth with each product.

 

Red Shine - a gorgeous holiday red shade that is very pretty.  I'm a huge sucker for red lip gloss so this was a no brainer, ya know?  But, after looking at all my photo swatches, I'd wish I picked up Gold Shine instead.  You know why?  Well, it's just simply gorgeous!  And, what makes Gold Shine so different from other gold glosses is the peachy pink base color completely drenched in gold shimmer.  Gold Light topped with Chanel's gold highlighting powder = to die for! 

I can't even remember the last time I purchased a Quad from Chanel.  It's been that long since they've actually had a worthy one.  13 Beiges De Chanel, is a gorgeous mixture of brown and golds that's stunning.  And, just imagine, the gold highlighting powder topped over this look.

Check out the photo swatch from the Beiges De Chanel Quad. 

It's an interesting combination of colors - not your standard "beige" quad.  All four shades blended incredibly well - just like butter.   The mixture of colors range from your muted gold's to brown with gold pearl, dark brown with gold shimmer (for the crease) and a vanilla colored matte highlighter.   

Chanel Gold Highlighting Powder ($75).  Now, before you eeek at the price tag, here's some insight that may take some pain away.  This is pigment and not powder.  Actually, it's a large size of pigment.  Just think on the lines of MAC's pigment in jars.  To this day, there isn't one that I've used up.  MAC's Pigment jars are 7.5 g and Chanel's is 8.0 g.

When I was at the counter swatching the Holiday collection, Chanel's makeup artist literally put the gold highlighter on every swatched color on my arm.  I was amazed how versatile it was.  It looked stunning with pretty much everything.  Suitable for body, lips, moisturizer, eye's - you name it. 

Check out more pictures below. 

A large body brush is included with the highlighter and is meant to be used for larger areas.  So, if your using this as a highlighter, you can just use a powder or hightlighter brush.  My professional Sonia Kashuk powder brush worked out perfectly. 

 Oooh......ahhhhh..... So pretty.

Haute Chocolat is a pretty chocolate brown with gold and red shimmer.  Most likely, this will be the sell-out from the three that were released.  It coordinates perfectly with the gold and brown theme to complete the look.

Everything should available online anytime now.  I know many Chanel counters don't plan on getting the holiday collection until mid October or later.  I'd call your local counter before making the trip.

FEATURED - Tuesday, October 21st 2008

MAC Dame Edna Collection: Color Story

Lipstick (LE) - $14.00 USD

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

Lipglass (LE) $14.00 USD

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

Eye Shadow Trio (LE) - $32.50 USD

Royal Tour Eye Trio

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

Wisteria Eye Trio

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

Highlight Powder (LE) - $26.00 USD

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

Nail Lacquer (LE) $11.00 USD

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

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

{Source: Specktra}

FEATURED - Wednesday, October 22nd 2008

Holiday 08: Dior Black Sequins Nail Polish

 

Today's nail polish of the day is the new Black Sequins ($19.00) from Diors Holiday collection. A black lacquer filled with silver almost duocrome-y fleck like shimmer. So I don't know if I'm going crazy or what. I'm really seeing these flecks turn bluish in the sunlight. Even in some of my swatches you'll notice a silver/blue effect.

My application was smooth with no true problems. Black Sequins drys to a glossy/very slighty semi matte. You'll probably need a topcoat to accomplish a glossy look. If your wondering - is this the most uniuqe?  Well, probably not. So, if your not head over heels for black polish - I'd pass on this one. If you love black - go for it girlfriend.  

 

Let's start off with the closest comparison which would be Chanel's Black Satin. Black Sequins is more chunkier with slighty visible blue/sillver shimmer compared to Black Satin, but both are similar. It's a great alternative, espically if you wished Black Satin had a little more kick.   

Dior's Black Sequins ($15) is now available at Sephora for a limited time only.

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 - Wednesday, January 28th 2009

Man Glaze Matte Nail Polish Swatches

I'm finally getting around to the extrodinary Man Glaze nail polishes.  One word, Amazing.  Breathe, take a step back.  Wow, these are super hot!  Very goth and punk rock.  Totally cool.

Man Glaze is intended for a man or unisex and is to be worn without a topcoat for the desired "matte" look.  Without a topcoat?  Isn't that a faux paus?!  To think of a world without a topcoat is inconceivable.

Let's just throw the topcoat rule out the door for now.  Just pretend it don't even exsist. 

Check out some swatches below. 

 

The Death Tar - a smooth black matte/satin with subtle rainbow shimmer with no topcoat.  There's something about matte finishes I just love!

Two wears in one nail polish.  So versatile you can wear two ways. 

 Pic above is with a topcoat. 

 Fuggen Ugly - a charcoal steel gray with rainbow shimmer.  Pic above is with no topcoat.

Pic above is with topcoat.

The Death Tar and Fuggen Ugly retail for $6.66 and are available at Man Glaze.  Make sure you check out their blog to see some cool pictures and different uses.

Another reviewer from Man Glaze's Blog, DowdyDiva mentioned topping with Chanel's Azure glitter polish.

Here's some fun I had with one coat of Chanel's Azure.

Although the glossy look may be stunning, I prefer the matte look.

FEATURED - Sunday, February 22nd 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Massini Starry Violet

Happy Sunday, ya'll!  Hope your having a fabulous & relaxing afternoon.  Today's nail poilsh of the is a starry violet pink with silver glitter that's really pretty on.

Massini nail polish retails for $2.99 and I've only seen this brand at Meijer (or fred meijer) stores.  So, I'm not sure if this line is available elsewhere.

On my swatches, three coats were used, but you could get away with two easily.  The silver glitter is more obvious with three.  Starry violet dried to a matte finish and I topped it with OPI rapid dry topcoat.

Today, I plan on finishing up my Spring collections then on to Summer.  Have a great day!

FEATURED - Saturday, March 21st 2009

Nail Art: Jin Soon Choi Recreations

A couple weeks ago, I posted some interesting nail art designs by Jin Soon Choi that I stumbled across in the Teen Vogue's March issue.

Most of these designs were super easy and didn't require any special nail art tools except a dotting tool for the polka dots (which aren't shown).

Check out some pics below.

This was one of my least favoirte designs at first, but ended up loving it.  There's something about a neon base that makes both orange and black pop against my skin.

What you'll need (any brand): Neon yellow, Opaque french white, Halloween Orange creme and Black creme.

How to: Start with any yellow neon base color. Most neons I've seen are matte and pretty sheer. Tip: use a white opaque color (such as a french white) before applying the neon base. You'll have better color pay-off and you'll avoid numerous applications.

When the base is completely dry, take your orange creme polish and make some creative brush stroke swipes on the neon. It's pretty easy - just dab and swirl you brush creatively. Once dry, repeat the same steps but with the black polish. Finish with a fast dry topcoat and go.

This design was super easy using Sally Hanen's nail art pen in white. You could also try a navy blue background that would look fab.

What you'll need: Black Opaque creme polish (my fave is Wet n Wild) and SH nail art pen in white.

How to: Start with a black basecoat. Once dry, seal with a fast dry topcoat. Make sure your base and topcoat is completely dry before you start with SH's nail art pens. Then draw vertically and horizontal lines on your nails. Seal with a topcoat and go.

Another super easy design. On this one, you can use basically any nail polish colors. Just make sure both colors are pretty opaque.

What you'll need: Any two colors really.

How to: Apply the first color about 2/3 on the nail (one or two coats). You want to make sure you make steady straight lines. Once dry, apply the other color to 1/3 of nail. Finish wiht a topcoat and go.

I'll be posting a few more designs in the next few days. What do you guys think? Easy enough?

FEATURED - Monday, March 30th 2009

Matte Nail Polish: A Total Knockout

KO (Knockout Cosmetics) was created by makeup artist Mike Potter, best known for creating the hair and makeup for the groundbreaking stage and film versions of Hedwig & the Angry Inchfor. Along with fellow KO leader Aaron McCann, are very excited to welcome you to the beauty and glamour of KO.

Knockout introduces four new glamourous shades of Flatte Matte nail polish.  Karen - a virbrant red (OMG yes red), Calamine - pink powder, Black Flatte - black flatte and Powder - milky white powder along with a matte topcoat.

The quality was superb. Each coat applied smooth like a matte and dried to a silky satin finish with two applications. Although, I did use three coats due to my errors - not the actual formula or brand.

Let's break it down. Priced at $22 a pop, may be the only drawback to these beauties. But, you get what you pay for and so much more! The bottles are huge-normous (.56 oz). Biggie size me up please - no kidding!

My Issues. The extra large bottle accompanies an even longer handle. For me, the handle wasn't practical at all. I felt like I was painting with a oversized sharpie marker. Mostly, it's that I'm not used to a longer handle. 

Calamine is exactly that  - a calmine creme pink powder with no visible shimmer that's perfect for Spring. The pink creme looked so elegant on my nails - I just loved it!

Next week, I'll be featuring the gorgeous, Karen - a red flatte matte. Make sure you stay tuned! In the meantime, check out Scrangie's black and white swatches.

FEATURED - Thursday, April 2nd 2009

Matte Nail Polish: Bringin Sexy Back

 

Matte Nail Polish, a grungy nail trend from the 90's, is regaining it's popularity this year. From brands like Man Glaze to Knockout Cosmetics, it's bringing sexy back - slowly but surely!

Trends come and go, as I always like to say. And, lets hope this one is here for a little while because I'm totally digging it. Come on, ya know your inner punk rock is screaming to come out!

Most of us probably won't fancy matte textures. Let's face it - their different and we've been using a shiny topcoat for years now. Just to think of a flat topcoat is inconceivable! But do give em' a fair shot, they may suprise you all in all.  

Today I'm posting some of my favorite matte nail polishes to kick off this new trend.

Man Glaze Death Tar (pictured above) - black with rainbow shimmer.

Man Glaze Fuggen Ugly - Steel gray with rainbow shimmer.

Knock Out Calamine - soft calamine pink (yes just like the lotion) flatte matte.

Covergirl Mattalic's are a different kind of matte from the others I own. A mix between a matte and metallic - pretty easy. Each color is loaded with silver metallic shimmer. 

Covergirl Triple Platinum Mattalic - silver with silver glitter.

Covergirl Bronze Mattalic - orangey bronze matte with silver glitter.

Covergirl Blue Steel Mattalic - sky blue with silver glitter.

Covergirl Mattalic Pink Zinc - pink rose with silver glitter.

For my weekly nail polish giveaway this month, I'll be giving away three shades of Covergirl Mattalic. Make sure your a Steph's Closet subscriber, you don't wanna miss out.

Maybelline's matte polishes are ultimate meaning of sexy. I hold these close to my heart because their beyond extraordinary. The best out of the best!

I'm not going to lie, these are pretty hard to find - but not impossible. Check out ebay, dollar stores, big lots and any other discount stores in your area.

Maybelline Olive Matte - golden olive green with rainbow shimmer.

Maybelline Grape Matte - a plummy grape with rainbow shimmer.

Turn all your polishes into mattes with Maybelline Mattte Maker - yellowish clear topcoat that takes the shine from your mani.  Knockout Cosmetics and Orly also makes a topcoat that would serve the same purpose.

What do you guys think of Matte nail polishes? Love them or hate them?

FEATURED - Saturday, April 11th 2009

Claires Neon Holos: Nail Polish Swatches

Hope your having a wonderful Saturday. Summer is slowly creeping around the corner and you guys know what that means, Bright Neon Colors! Yep, the brights are back and I have tons of eye catching shades to show you.

To kick off this festive summer trend, I wanted to start with my favorites from Clarie's. One thing I love about Claire's Neons, well two things: Each shade has a holographic glitter effect and most colors aren't as bright as your typical neons, for example: Color Club's Electro Candy, which I'll be previewing next week.

Each shade is infused with a mild holographic glitter effect and dries to a semi gritty matte finish. Now, it's not as gritty as a full fledged glitter nail polish. I don't think you should have any worries with that.

Jen Jen (above) - a yellow green (lime) with holographic glitter. Jen Jen and Lime Shine were the ones that took a four coat application to achieve the bottle color.

 Lime Shine - a bright neon green with holographic glitter.

Juluis - a bright neon orange with holographic glitter.

Yel - one of my faves, a little bit more green than the actual swatch, aqua blue with holographic glitter.

 Pink Rose - a light pink rose with holographic glitter.

Meg Peg - one of my faves, gorgeous magenta purple with holographic glitter

 

Flame - bright reddish coral with holographic glitter.

LuLu Belle - a bright hot pink neon with holographic glitter.

The brighter neon colors for the brave: Lime Shine, Juluis, Lulu Belle, and the not so bright for anyone: Flame (kinda bright but not overly), Meg Peg, Pink Rose, Yel and Jen Jen.

These are available at Claries and retail for $3.50/ea. What your guys take on Neons? I'll wear anything, of course! Have a wonderful Saturday!

FEATURED - Monday, April 13th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: KO Red Hot Karen

Hope your having a wonderful Monday! Now that you've seen Knockout's Calamine, a soft powder pink perfect for any occasion, Today I'm bringing you a hot red number sure to spice up the night.

Introducing...the sexy and sassy, Karen. Inspired by Karen from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, a classic, red matte that's packed with color and applied perfectly in two applications. To check out my official review on Knockout nail polish, click here.

Karen's bold, red shade combined with the matte texture makes this a A++ in my book, and tops as my favorite from Knockout.

Knockout Cosmetics retails for $22.00/ea and is available online. Have a good one!

FEATURED - Monday, April 20th 2009

Summer Neons: Color Club Electro Candy

This Summer, Color Club introduces High definition electrifying neon colors sure to grab your attention.

Electro Candy is the newest collection of high-quality lacquers in heart-racing high-voltage shades with hints of shimmer.

Lately, Color Club has really been impressing me! First it was the fabulous holographic colors from Femme Fatale and Catwalk Queen spring collections.  Now, a spin on their neons with a hint shimmer that I'm totally digging.

Sure, neons aren't for everyone, but they sure are fun for summer and make excellent pedicure colors for those tootsies!

First, for the Disclaimer: Neons never photograph properly and are about five times brighter than my actual swatches. Most colors needed three coats and dried to a satin matte texture. I skipped Color Club's vivid topcoat because it wasn't a fast drying formula.

On to the swatches.

Volts of Light - neon yellow with bright green shimmer. 

What a Shock - neon green with bright blue shimmer. 

Electro Candy - neon pink with bright green shimmer. 

Tangerine Dream - neon orange with bright green shimmer. 

Ultra Violet - violet purple with bright green shimmer. 

Pure Energy - turquoise blue with bright blue shimmer.

The Electro Candy collection is now available at Head2Toe and Transdesign and retails for $2.99/ea.

FEATURED - Wednesday, April 22nd 2009

Essie Summer 09: Neon Collection Swatches

Have fun, rock out and play with color on toes and tips.  Essie brings color intensity back with the Neon Collection – a new crop of bright shades that pop!

Along with North Folk this summer,  Essie introduces four electrifying shades to the Neon collection sure to grab your attention.

Turn off the lights indeed - You'll surely get noticed with Essies new intense neons that glow. With four new colors from pinks, purple and shockingly yellow.

Like most neon colors, Essie's dries to a matte finish and you'll need a topcoat if you want that shiny look.  Most colors applied in three coats, with the exception of Funky Limelight and no true application problems.

All my swatches were captured in direct sunlight and just a reminder, neons never capture true to life. Here's some other swatches from Scrangie and The Nailphile to give you an idea where the colors fall.

Here they are!

Funky Limelight - an intense glowing yellow neon that is uber bright. My swatches don't justify the intensity of this baby.

This was the only problem child of the bunch, in which I did apply one coat of white underneath. My application was a tad on the streaky side and required a total of four coats including the white.

TIP: I had better luck applying a base, such as any opaque white nail polish to avoid the excessive coat-age. Otherwise, you'll be coating Funky Limelight in the 5 range.

Flirty Fuchsia - hot neon pink that's darker than Punchy Pink.

Perky Purple - a neon purple that's a close match to Essie's Bermuda Shorts. In real life, Perky Purple is much more purple. Very Pretty!

 

Punchy Pink - is a lighter pink version of Flirty Fuchsia and ranks as my favorite from the neon collection.

A great color all around, not too dull or shocking bright like Funky Limelight. I'm not usually big on pinks, but this pops with my skintone. Love! 

The essie Neon Color Collection is a limited-edition collection, available beginning May 2009 at www.essie.com and fine spas, salons and beauty stores nationwide. SRP $9.00 USD.

FEATURED - Tuesday, April 28th 2009

Massini Summer Neon Nail Polish Swatches

Neons, Neons and more Neons this summer. Today I'm bringing you some bright nail colors from Massini. Let's start off by saying, I feel kinda bad for posting these swatches because their only available at Meijers stores located in KY, OH, IN, and MI states. Maybe in the future, if we push hard enough, Mejier can start offering these available online.

As far as color and pigmentation, these are the best neon polishes I've seen. Most shades are thick, opaque and only require two thick coats or three to achieve bottle color. Like all neons, they dry to a matte texture and you'll need a topcoat for that glossy look..

And, let's gettie on to the swatches!

Neon Greenlight - bright neon lime green creme. 

Power Pink - bright neon pastel pink creme. Wow, this one really pops! loves it.

Orange Hot - bright neon orange creme. 

Lightening Blue - pretty neon blue creme. 

 Thunderbolt - neon purple creme.

Infusion - hot pinkish red neon creme.

Massini nail lacquers are only available at Meijers stores and retails for $2.99/ea for a huge-normous .6 oz/ea. Well worth the hassle, espically if you know someone that lives by a Meijer store.

I have a couple more neons from Massini that weren't included in this display. As soon as we get some decent weather, I'll post them in this entry. 

Update: I've had an ovewhelming request for Massini nail polish and it has me thinking about launching a store section on my site. Now of course, I love all my peeps and would only charge you guys what I paid plus tax and a shipping fee. Please note, I'm not an ebay scalper, I love to help people not rip them off. In all honesty, I would give them free if I could!

FEATURED - Wednesday, May 6th 2009

Zoya News: Limited Edition MatteVelvet for Fall

Most of you probably thought I was crazy when I blogged that Matte's were bringin sexy back, and just lookie what Zoya has in store for us this Fall 09'.

Note: The MatteVelvet is a special limited edition release that's not part of the regular Zoya seasonal collections.  

After working with hundreds of matte formulations and color options, the ZOYA color experts are happy to announce three perfect LIMITED EDITION, exclusive MATTEVELVET* shades for Fall 2009 (available July 1, 2009).

Loredana (ZP498) - Gunmetal gray matte shimmer.

Dovima (ZP499) - Black matte shimmer.

Posh (ZP500) - Wine matte shimmer.

Designed to appeal to a multitude of matte color trend lovers; including every metro mod, vintage stylista, retro pin-up, goth beauty, glam rocker, street chic fashionista and color junkie out there, Zoya MATTEVELVET* shades deliver the new color of fashion. Get all of the color, none of shine with MATTEVELVET*, Zoya’s exclusive blend of matte base and subtle shimmer resulting in utterly wearable and truly stylish nail polish.

Zoya nail lacquers are free of harmful industrial chemicals like toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) that are known to cause cancer and birth defects.

As always, each and every Zoya color is made for women so we name the colors after women. Find your favorite shade, Zoya MATTEVELVET* and over 300 other ultra high-fashion shades at http://www.zoya.com.

*MATTEVELVET (matte velvet) nail color by Zoya is not intended to be worn with a base coat, top coat or speed dryer of any kind. Due to the unique matte formulation, color is not as long-wearing as traditional nail color. A completely clean, dry nail surface yields the best results for matte nail color wear. For best results make sure to always prepare nail with Zoya Remove + (3-in-1 nail polish remover, nail plate cleaner and new color prep.) prior to applying color.

The MatteVelet collection will be available at Art of Beauty beginning July 1st.

FEATURED - Friday, May 8th 2009

KO Liberty: Mint Green Matte Goodness

Today is a happy happy Friday and it's all thanks to Knockout's new shade, Liberty. This one is hot, really hot! Described as pastel mint green matte that dried to a satin with three thin coats.

Well all know mint green shades are on fire right now, and I think Liberty will break us from our matte nail polish phobia. It's the perfect Spring or Summer shade for mani's and pedi's.

My Application: There was a little bit of streakiness at first, but it all seemed to dry out evenly in the end. You could probably get by with two thicker coats.

And now for the comparison.  

Liberty is much greener than For Audrey, and just a pinch bluer than MAC's Peppermint Patti. If your swooning over mint greens lately, this is a must have!

Liberty is now available online at Knockout Cosmetics and retails for $22 for a huge bottle (.56). Have a wonderful weekend! 

FEATURED - Monday, May 18th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: SH Turquoise Opal

Happy Monday! Hope you guys had a terrific weekend! It's absolutely gorgeous outside and makes for a great start to the week.

It was only a matter of time before I dragged out these gems from Sally Hansen. And, wow, that's all I need to say! These are certainly magical in every way.

Once upon a time, Sally Hansen introduced an amazing line called Nail Prisms. Each bottle is filled with massive amounts of shimmer that reflects off light to create a rainbow of duochrome colors.

Turquoise Opal, one of my favorites from the nail prisms, distinctly flashes four obvious colors: teal, blue, pink, and purple. On the pictures above, I tried to get both teal & blue and purple & pink captured. 

One more swatch below.

In this swatch, I used one coat of black polish as a base and two coats of SH nail prisms. And, you can kinda see a gradient of all four colors.

I'm not sure how many Nail Prisms colors were produced, but I know there's many. I personally own over thirty something and still see new colors popping up on ebay.

Where can I find these? It's not impossible, you just have to look. Ebay is the most obvious place. Also, check your Dollar Tree and Flea markets.

This past weekend, me and my hubsand went to the Flea Market and I stumbled upon this booth with over 300 discontinued Sally Hansen's, NYC, Naturalisitcs, etc. I was literally in heaven, but sadly I already owned most of the nail prisms they had. Wanna see my mini haul.

Have a wonderful Monday!

FEATURED - Friday, May 22nd 2009

New Nail Color: Knockout Cosmetics Ox

It's Friday - TGIF! Hope your having a fantastic day. Today I'm bringing you a lovely new matte shade from Knockout Cosmetics. Ox, described as a purple plum matte that applied perfectly in two coats.

This is certainly a Vampylicious shade! And, it's definitely a color that you'll see sporting around this Fall. Infact, I can't even wait that long - I think I'm doing this as my first matte pedi color.

Matte, Matte, Matte. Yes, I've been talking about them for a year now and I'm beyond estatic that nail polish companies are finally...finally starting to introduce them this Fall. So, if Knockout's a little out of your price range, just hold tight - we'll have some budget friendly polishes coming soon!

Hope ya'll have a fabulous weekend!

FEATURED - Sunday, June 14th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Orly Satin Royalty

Hope your having a wonderful Sunday! With the all Matte craziness we've been having lately, I wanted to pull out an oldie from Orly's Satin Hues line.

Satin Royalty is a pefect example of a matte nail polish with visible shimmer.  A sheer, light purple with pink and blue shimmer. The application was more sheer than I like, but the end result is really pretty with four coats.

I'm not sure when Orly introduced Satin Hues, but it's been quite sometime. While this line isn't readily available, you could still find these discontinued gems at Dusty's, Ebay, or beauty stores that carries discontuned lines.

Let's talk about Matte vs. Satin - Is there a difference?  Well, it really depends who you ask. To me, matte is satin. Anything with no gloss or shine, flat or satin looking is matte. Of course, some finishes may be more satin or flatte, but it all falls under the same category.

Hope you had a wonderful weekend.

FEATURED - Thursday, May 28th 2009

Pedi of the Day: Knockout's Ox with Polka Dots

Hope your having a wonderful Thursday! Today's pedicure, one I featured last week, Knockout's new plummy purple matte, Ox. I gotta say, I'm really impressed with the wear on these babies.

Note: In the picture above, no topcoat was used. The sun along with my moisturizer gives the impression of a glossy look.  

Last weekend, before my big painting extravaganza at the house, I applied one coat of Ox and didn't have the chance to finish up the second until today. And, the one coat wear was simply amazing. No chips nor imperfections. Very impressive - espically without a topcoat

Check out one more swatch below.

This design is inspired from one of my favorite nail bloggers, Michelle. After seeing her matte and glossy nail art, I just had to try it. The look is very subtle and sleek. I really loved the combination together. You'll definitely see me sporting around more Matte and Glossy looks.

What I used: Knockout's Ox, CNY New York, New Year and a dotting tool for the polka dots. If you don't have any matte nail polish, invest in a topcoat that transforms all your polishes to matte. OPI, Orly and Knockout Cosmetics makes one.

Don't forget to enter the SH giveaway, winners will be announced next Friday. What do you guys think of the Matte and Glossy look? Have a wionderful day!

Love Matte polishes? Check out some other swatches from Knockout Cosmetics. 

FEATURED - Friday, May 29th 2009

OPI Jumps on the Matte Bandwagon this Fall

“OPI Matte is cutting edge for nails in terms of sophistication and style,” says Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI executive vice president and artistic director. “An all-matte nail is fresh, confident, and very fashion runway, and OPI Matte is meant for those moments when you want to make a major fashion statement.OPI Matte does not wear as long as original OPI Nail Lacquer – but its impact is long remembered!”

I'm sure most of you already heard about OPI's newest matte collection slated this Fall. To my undertstanding, OPI is releasing six duo shades, available in two finishes: matte and glossy - take your pick!  All six shades are standard OPI colors that are readily available, not new ones.

Alpine Snow - french white creme, You don't know Jacques - mushrooom taupey creme, Russian Navy - Navy blue shimmer, La Paz-itively Hot - hot pink creme, Lincolon Park after Dark - midnight purple and Gargantuan Grape - greenish yellow lime.

The Matte collection will be available beginning July 1st. In the meantime, here's a few examples that I added a matte topcoat, just to give us an idea.

Note: these are not actual OPI matte shades. Just recreations using a matte topcoat. In most cases, Matte shades usually aren't the same as topcoats.

Check out the swatches. 

The Matte collection will be available starting July 1st. Check out the official swatches and review. 

FEATURED - Saturday, June 13th 2009

Coming Soon: Essie Matte About You

Looks like Essie's joining the matte craze - sort of. No, it's not another matte collection. But it's a start, and don't be suprised if we see a little mattene in the future from Essie.

Coming in August, Essie introduces Matte about you. A new, matte finisher that transforms any essie nail color to a smooth matte finish. A great alternative, espically if you don't want to splurge on this new trend. Retail price is $10.

I'm in the process of testing matte makers/finishers, so this couldn't come at a better time. Look for that post in July. If your still on the fence with matte's, I would definitley recommend experimenting with a finisher or matte maker before splurging on a collection.

Yesterday can officially go down in history as Matte craziness. Orly dropped the big M bomb along with Nubar and we can't forget Zoya's fabulous preview. Check out The NailPhile for Nubar swatches. Hope you have a great Saturday!

{Source: NailsMag}

FEATURED - Friday, June 19th 2009

Limited Edition: Zoya Matte Velvet Collection

This Fall, Zoya introduces a limited edition collection of three fabulous matte nail polishes.

Before I get to all the goodies, let's take a minute go over the formula. First off, Matte nail polishes generally require no topcoat or basecoat for best results. One main reason being, matte and glossy textures are two different apples. So, when you mix both together the outcome may be a collision of formula's.

With all the Matte polishes being released this Fall, hopefully we'll see more topcoats and basecoat's becoming readily available.

The Application: Smooth, opaque and dries super fast. All you'll need is two coats to achieve bottle color. No application problems, perfect!

Overall, I'm really impressesd with Zoya's Matte's. I know many of us aren't too keen on a flatte looking polish, but the shimmer in these gives a little boost, which may be a little more practical for some.

Check out the swatches.

Loredana, a steel gray with shimmer. 

Posh couldn't be named better. Classy, elegant and super hot for Fall! Described as a red wine matte with shimmer. 

Domiva, a rich black matte with rainbow shimmer.

Zoya's Matte Velvet collection is a limited edition release and is only available at Art of Beauty.

FEATURED - Friday, July 3rd 2009

Coming Soon: Sephora by OPI Matte Nail Polish

Can you even handle it? Yep, look what I found lurking on Sephora's site. Coming soon, Sephora by OPI introduces three limited edition shades available in a matte texture. Looks like this is going to be the same gig as OPI's Matte collection with standard core line colours. Let's cross our fingers and hope these are more like OPI's Paz-itively Hot matte. Check out the details below.

Sephora By OPI Matte is inspired by the cutting-edge of style. This breakthrough, no-holds-barred matte finish (available in three of the most popular Sephora by OPI Nail Lacquer shades) is not for everyone. It is for the woman who likes to lead instead of follow and who wants to make a daring fashion statement. Whether you choose an all-matte nail or a matte nail with a matching gloss tip, Sephora by OPI Matte transforms you into a fashionista fatale.

Sephora by OPI Matte does not wear as long as original Sephora by OPI. Do not wear Sephora by OPI Matte with a base coat, top coat, drying products, or hand lotion.

This collection should be available within the next week for a limited time only, retail price is $9.00. Get em' while you can! In the meantime, here's some swatches I messed around with. **Please note, these are not actual matte swatches.

The Matte collection will be available starting in August. Click here to check out the swatches.

FEATURED - Friday, July 10th 2009

Reader Requests: Peach Nail Polish Comparisons

Happy Friday Everyone! Today I'm bringing you some peach nail polish comparisons by reader requests. Just a reminder, if there's a particular shade(s) that you would like to see a photo comparison for, just leave me a comment or email me at stephscloset at gmail. Don't worry, I won't bite - or maybe I will...Muahh!!

Let's get on to the swatches.

One of my most requested comparisons, a Chanel Orange Fizz dupe, and I'm happy to report there are a few great contenders. Although, Sally Hansen's Apricot and Wet n Wild's Blaze aren't exactly alike, they fall pretty close to being dupes. Blaze being the most obvious alternative, and super easy to find for only 99 cents!  

Nar's Orgasm is pretty special until Dior's Sweet Orange moved in and kicked her to the side. Sweet Orange is a tiny bit "pink" toned with great color payoff compared to Orgasm's four coats.  

Sinful's Karma is a nice alternative to Chanel's Orange Blossom.

I don't personally own Chanel's Orange Blossom, but have seen many times in person. And, overall the base of all three are similar, but Orange Blossom has gold shimmer that these two lack.

A nice alternative for Orange Blossom and Miami Peach is Sinful's Karma.  

So your thinking, why would I include pink swatches in a peach comparison post? Well, I had no idea that MAC's Seasonal Peach was more "pink" toned than peach?! Although Knockout's Calamine is a matte shade, it's the closest comparison I have to Seasonal Peach.

Hope you have a wonderful Friday and great weekend! Be safe peeps!

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 22nd 2009

Knockout Cosmetics: Black Matte Goodness

Happy humpety, hump day! Hopefully your day is starting off right. With all the Matte rage we've been seeing for Fall, one noticeable color that's MIA, a black flatte with no visible shimmer and Knockout Cosmetics makes one of the best to date.

Unlike most Knockout shades, Black flatte dries to a true "matte" finish opposed to other KO colors that are more "satin" like. So, if you looking for a true black matte, Knockout's Black is your answer!

I'm convinced that the only drawback to these babies is the hefty price tag. But no more than Chanel or Dior and you get an enormous .56 ounces.

And you guessed it, polka dots! Check out some pics below. 

Ooh, I just love glossy dots on matte!

This is one of my favorite looks using light gray acrylic paint for my polka dots.

Knockout's black flatte is available at KO Knockout and retails for $19.00/ea. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

FEATURED - Sunday, August 2nd 2009

Green of the Night: Goddess of the Forest

Happy Sunday ya'll! Hope you had an awesome weekend. It's another segment featuring my newly found addiction, making Frakens! Today I'm bringing you a creation that's oh so heavenly for any green lover! 

It was only a matter of time before I tapped into a dreamy dark green...I'm really, really excited to show ya'll this one! The turnout was unbelievable with MAC's Forest Green pigment.

Let's do it, to it! 

Goddess of the Forest is pretty simple..No brain work needed! The name was inspired from the riches and darkness of the forest combined with gold and glitz of a goddess. Another potential name, Green of the Night...It was a toughie. Which one do you guys like better?

It's described as a deep forest with green and blue micro-shimmer and gold glitter. This one applied similar to OPI's Jasper Jade, black and semi streaky. But after the third coat, my application evened out completely.

What I used: Petites clear polish (mini size .25), 1/4 tsp MAC Forest Green, 1/8 tsp Reflects Gold glitter. two nail polish balls (aka bb's) and mix together.

Here's a comparison of some look alikes. Goddess of the Forest is a tiny bit blackend with gold glitter.

I plan on posting a Franken tutorial soon. Have a wonderful day!  

FEATURED - Sunday, August 9th 2009

Sephora by OPI Matte Nail Colour Collection

Happy Sunday! Hope your having a fantabulous weekend! Are you ready for some Mattene this week, Diva's? I have a few collections to show you, starting off with Sephora's newest one.

This Fall, Sephora introduces a limited edition collection of fashion forward, matte nail colours available in three of Sephora by OPI's most popular shades.

Matte Finishes may not be for everyone, especially die hard glossy lovers. It's trendy and gives us Manicure Mavens an alternative to shiny polish. But until the formula is perfected, I don't think this fad will be catching on quite yet...we'll see! 

Before I get to the goodies, let's talk about application and formula. Like most non glossy nail polishes these are fast drying, which might usher problems when applying mattes all together.

On all my swatches I used three thin coats. But I've found applying thicker coats may deliver a smoother application with less stroke lines.

Shall we check out the swatches?

Domestic Goddess, a flatte vibrant purple grape matte. 

Metro Chic, a flatte smokey brown, gray, purple, muddy matte. 

I'm excited to add another flatte black to my collection. What's a Tire Jack, a flatte jet black matte. I really loved this one, not as dull as the other two.

The matte collection is now available online at Sephora for a limited time and retails for $9.00/ea. What do you guys think? Love or hate the Matte trend?

FEATURED - Sunday, August 16th 2009

NOTD: RBL Yellow Fever Matte, OPI Ink

Happy Sunday! Hope y'all are having a fantastic weekend! Today I'm bringing you a few Nail polish of the day swatches to make up for my absence this past week. Let's start with the gorgeous OPI Ink.

Ink was my favorite color released in the Summer 07 Night Brights collection. It's a gorgeous mixture between blue and puple with pink shimmer that's really fabulous! If your a blue and purple fanatic, Ink is a must have.

On Saturday, I met up with two lovely bloggers from the Ohio Region, Michelle from All Lacquered Up, Sarah from Pretty in Dayton and sported this sunny color. We had a great time chatting and shopping at the Fashion Place in Cleveland, OH.

It's been a while since I've pulled out my Rescue Beauty Lounge polishes and I forgot how fabulous the quality is! The horse of all nail polishes that's superior, really?! And I just couldn't resist adding a matte coat to Yellow Fever. Totally loved this mattified!

Surprise! One more pedi swatch to end the day. This was really simple and quick using Sally Hansen's nail art pen and my dotting tool.

How was everyone's weekend? Have a great night!

FEATURED - Friday, September 18th 2009

Product Review: Hot Topic Press on Nail Polish

Product: Hot Topic Press on Nail Polish

Price: $4.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Hot Topic Stores

Happy Friday Divas! If you're following me on twitter you've already seen a sneak peek of my uber cool mani from last weekend. Let's break it down and see what this Press on nail polish is all about!

Press on Nail Polish you say? Yes! If you'd ask this Addict about Press on Nail Polish a few months ago, I'd just roll my eyes and shake my head in shame. Because fact of the matter, I can paint my nails faster than fooling around with this little package. But, Hot Topic had me at Leopard!

This isn't your typical Press on Nail Polish...It's a gradient of neon colors with a Leopard style design! The nail art is a huge bonus. For me, it would be next to impossible to replicate this look without Minxing it. If your not familiar with Minx, it's a polymer nail covering that uses heat to adhere to the nail.

Think stickers for your nails. While Minx uses a heating process, these don't. Each package includes a total of 16 stickers, 8 different nail sizes. With the misfortune of my small nail beds, any pre-sized artificial nail or sticker usually runs ten times bigger. Needless to say, I had to customize each one with my handy cosmetic scissors.

Application is the most important step. The true enemy is air. When applying the sticker to your nail, make sure it's completely sealed with no air gaps. Flatten and finish edges with a nail file to take off remaining excess.

If applied correctly, the nail polish stickers may last a good 3+ days. To remove, remove gently by peeling from edge.

Check out one more swatch below.

Easy enough? Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

FEATURED - Wednesday, September 23rd 2009

Halloween: Color Club Master of Disguise

Collection: Color Club Master of Disguise,    4 minis per box, 0.25 oz. ea

Price: $5.95 and up

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Head2Toe Beauty, VNS

Summer has officially kicked the bucket this season, and I couldn't be happier to celebrate Fall. Football, Sweatshirts & Long Pants, Bonfires - All things I love! And don't forget, Halloween!

Today let's start with a wickedly cool collection from Color Club called, Master of Disguise. In this new boxed set, you'll find four halloween mini polishes averaging .25 oz/ea. All colors applied fairy well not exceeding three coats.

Check out the swatches! 

 

Abracadabra is a thin orange jelly with chunky round gold glitter that has a slight matte texture.  

Abracadabra layered over black screams Halloween.

Taboo is absolutely gorgeous and one of my faves. It's a blue purple shimmer that's certainly pretty. Just a tad bit blue compared to her sister, Electronica.

Ghost of Chance is a opaque french white creme.

Witchy Woman or Master of Disguise, you pick? On the original press release both names are mentioned, but I'm going with Witchy Woman. It's more fitting. Described as a black creme that has the same satin/matte texture as Where's the Soiree.

All in All, great collection! Price is right and the small mini bottles are ideal for travel and everyday use. The only downfall, Abracadabra and Taboo aren't sold seperately.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

FEATURED - Thursday, October 8th 2009

Orly Matte Couture Collection: Swatches, Review

Collection: Orly Matte Couture Collection, Nail Lacquer 0.6 oz

Price: $2.99/ea and up

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sally's, TransDesign, Head2Toe

"Always the trend-setters, ORLY introduces Matte Couture, a collection of matte lacquers created to keep you on the cusp of this fashion-forward craze".

Along with Once Upon a Time this Fall, Orly embraces the Matte trend with three edgy, yet fashionable shades to the Matte Couture collection. With the exception of Matte Vinyl, each shade has a satin texture that I'm absolutely thrilled about!

Before we get to the goodies, let's take a minute to discuss application. Unlike most matte polishes, these dry like regular nail polish - not at lightening speed. A huge plus in my case! If you need to re-coat 3, 4, or even 5 swipes - you have plenty of time. And the formula is most excellent - thick, pigmented and perfect!

Testing in progess: The only issue with mattes is the staying power. Sadly, it's just not there. But since were dealing with a different kind of breed, Orly recommends using a base coat, specifically Orly Bonder for extended use. While I'm still in the process of testing with and wiithout bonder, I should have results in a week or so. Make sure you check back.

Check em' out!

Purple Velvet is a reddish purple, mulberry-tastic with subtle shimmer. It's more of a satin/velvet finish lightly sprinkled with a dose of shimmer. I love this, a great fall color too!

Matte Vinyl is the only one with true matte qualities. A flat black that's a bit washed out compared to Knockout and Sephora's version.

Blue Suede is just marvelous! It's a gorgeous blue that has a satin/velvet texture.

All in All, fabulous! Fashionable colors for Fall that dry to a velvet like quality, excluding Matte Vinyl. Formula and application is right on. Big 3 Free. Priced right starting from $2.99. Great starter collection for mattes.

What's everyone think? Will Orly's collection break my non matte lovers out of their shell?  Have a wonderful Thursday guys!

FEATURED - Thursday, October 15th 2009

Zoya Ultra Glitter Collection: Swatches, Review

Product: Zoya Ultra Glitter Collection, Nail Lacquer 0.50 oz

Price: $7.00/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Zoya, Professional Salons

This Winter, Zoya introduces two smaller collections delivered right to your fingertips, Ultra Glitter and Matte Velvet. And today I'm bringing you an Ultra-Glam, Ultra-Blingy and Ultra-Cool collaboration for my glitter lovers.

In this collection, we have three new sparklers from Zoya - Astra, Luna and Nova. The formula is semi sheer, buildable color and you'll need three coats for full coverage.

Please Note: All my swatches were taken in overcast weather and not direct sunlight.

Check em' out! 

Astra is a red toned pink in a reddish pink base with pink glitter.

Luna is a silver glitter in a cloudy, gray-white base. I really loved this one, it's reminds me of snow with a layer of diamond dust!

Nova is purple toned pink in a purple base with pink and silver glitter. The silver glitter was hard to pick up, but it's definitely in there with three coats.

Overall, great collection! It's Fun, Glitzy and perfect for the holiday season. Application was decent with semi-sheer coverage. Texture is smooth, not bumpy or gritty with a top coat.

Who's on board Zoya's Glitter Train? Have a wonderful night!

FEATURED - Tuesday, October 27th 2009

Nubar Modern Matte Collection: Swatches, Review

Product: Nubar Modern Matte Collection, Nail Lacquer 0.5 oz

Price: $7.49/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Nubar Online

This Fall, Nubar gives us Matte Mavens a couple different alternatives to the traditional glossy look. Modern Matte, one of their newest collections, is a small release of four stylish and sleek colors with a no-shine finish. Don't wanna splurge on an entire collection? No worries! Nubar offers a matte top coat that's a personal fave of mine called, V for Men. Stay tuned for a separate product review.

Each color is shimmer based, which I adore. And if you don't fancy matte textures, just slap on a shiny top coat and their just as spectacular - if not more! The application and formula was good - fast drying, smooth and opaque.

Check out the swatches!   

 

Contempo is a classic red matte with shimmer. 

Prevail is a gorgeous, deep purple matte with shimmer.

Advant Garde is a russet red/brown matte with shimmer.

Vital is a red/purple wine matte with shimmer.

Overall, Good Collection. Nubar mattes are versatile - you can wear them glossy or matte. The formula was smooth, opaque and as always Big 3 Free.

What do you think of Nubar's Mattes? Love them, Hate them? Have a great night!

FEATURED - Saturday, October 31st 2009

The Best of Halloween 2009: Nail Polish Exclusives

Happy Halloween, Ghost and Goblins! Are you guys ready for the big H tonight? Yesterday we celebrated with some friends at our house, and this evening I'm ready for some good ole Rest and Relaxation.   

To ring in this ghoulish holiday, I'm bringing you some limited edition and/or exclusive nail colors that are floating around your local drugstore.

Let's start off with my favorite from the bunch, China Glaze. Check out all the Hallo-Spam below! 

Spellbound Top Coat is a sparkly orange and silver glitter with small and medium round glitter. Even though this is meant for a topper, you can wear alone or over your favorite nail color. Personally I love this layered over any silver foil (pictured above).

Fortune Teller is a Sally Beauty exclusive that's nothing but fabulous. An opaque black loaded with orange round and hexagon shaped glitter.

Next we have some colors from Phantom Frights aka Blue Cross Beauty. You can find these at Rite Aid or Meijer stores in the Halloween section. 

Black is a black creme. 

Black Glitter is a black with silver glitter. 

Black Glitter is a black with silver glitter mattified with China Glaze Matte Magic. 

Green is a Neon Green. 

Orange is a Neon Orange. 

Pink is a Pink Neon.

Black Holographic is a smokey black with holographic glitter.

Teal is a blue green neon. Application and formula was streaky.

Confetti is a orange and black confetti glitter.

Besides Spellbound and Fortune Teller, Toxic is one my favorite Halloween exclusives this year. It's a gorgeous shimmery green. I've only seen Claw Polishes available at Meijer and Kroger's in my area.

Bloodshed is a red creme. 

VooDoo is an exclusive from last year, a red glittery top coat.  

Sinister is a black creme. 

Walmart Green (no official name or brand) is a mini size blue green creme that's well worth a buck at Walmart. 

Walmart Orange is another mini size exclusive from Walmart. Application and formula was finicky.

Black Magic is a Wet n Wild exclusive that's been around for a few years. A multi-colored, confetti glitter in a clear base. Great for layering. 

 Magical is a red, gold and silver glitter in a clear base. Another good one for layering.

Harvest Party is a multi-colored glitter franken I created using clear nail polish and Martha Stewart's Glitter.

And last but not least, my orange and black tiger striped mani. Originally, this was my Cincinnati Bengal's manicure a few weeks ago, but it's very Halloween-ish - Don't cha think?

For more Halloween coverage, check out Milani's Black Magic, Color Club's Master of Disguise, MAC's Style Black, and/or Icing's Black Glitter set. .

Do you guys have any Halloween plans? Hope you have a wonderful night, be safe!

FEATURED - Monday, November 2nd 2009

Holiday Collection: Avon Nailwear Pro Sparkle

Product: Avon Nailwear Pro Sparkle Shades, Nail Lacquer 0.4 oz

Price: $5.00/ea or Sale Price $2.99

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Avon, Avon Rep

When I was bargain shopping with some friends a few months ago, I spotted an old - yet loved brand that I haven't revisited since High School. It's been years since I flipped through Avon's mini catalog of makeup, fashion and even electronics. But I only had one thing on my mind and it was nail polish!

Through Beauty Blogs, Makeup Forums and friends I've heard all good things about Avon's Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel and couldn't wait to test them out myself. Some of the core line colors aren't too spectacular or unique, but the Sparkle shades are worth peeping out.

In the Sparkle Collection is four holiday colors sprinkled with loads of gold shimmer. For the most part, formula is opaque and all my swatches varied between two or three coats.

Check em' out!

Let's start with the best, Golden Twilight. Even though this looks like your standard black with gold shimmer, it's actually in a gorgeous, deep purple-blue (ink) base. Since its opaque, all you'll need is two coats.

Looking at the bottle I thought this might be close to Wagon Trail, but wrong. Golden Twilight has a faint purple/blue base when compared.

Golden Wine is a red wine drenched in gold shimmer. A great holiday color!

Golden Wine also looks great mattified. It takes on a velvet-y appearance.

Golden Rose is a frosty pink rose with gold shimmer.

Gold Nude is a peach/nude/gold combination with gold shimmer. I'm not sure how I feel about this one, it's very different from anything I normally wear. But different can be good!

Overall, great Holiday collection. Nice formula, application and Big 3 Free. Priced on sale now at $2.99 each - you can't beat that. I adore the sparkle based textures and would love to see more shimmers to their Nailwear Pro Line.

Make sure you add the Photo Gallery to your favorites, I have several core line colors I'll be posting soon.

So who loves Avon's Nailwear Pro Line? What do you guys think of the new Sparkle Shades?

FEATURED - Friday, November 6th 2009

Winter Collection: Zoya MatteVelvet Swatches

Collection: Zoya MatteVelvet Winter Collection, Matte Nail Lacquer 0.5 oz

Price: $7.00/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Art of Beauty, Professional Salons

It's another matte edition Divas and before you roll your eyes or shrug your shoulders, Zoya's new shimmering MatteVelvet collection is worth paying attention to!

Unlike the Fall release, these applied perfectly! So flawlessly that I thought the formula had been recalculated, but they haven't; every pigment is different. And the drying time isn't lightening speed either; you have plenty of time to swipe 3, 4, or even 5 strokes with no visible streak lines. Go Zoya!

Are you ready for some swatches?

Don't ask me how to pronounce Veruschka, but the color is absolutely to die for. A forest green with intense shimmer that looks almost holographic with a glossy top coat. Gorg and my favorite by far! 

Harlow is a magenta pink matte.

Savita is a purple with blue undertones; not your traditional blurple, but there's definitely blue in there. And with a glossy top coat, the shimmering mattes really come to life! 

Overall, Super Hotness! Quite honestly, if the staying power was there, five star rating in my book. Good application, formula and Big 3 Free. Versatile - you can wear them matte or glossy.

What do you think of the Winter Mattes? Love them, Hate them? Have a wonderful weekend! 

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 22nd 2009

OPI Suede Collection: Swatches, Review

Collection: OPI Suede Collection, Nail Lacquer .5 oz

Retail Price: $8.50/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Professional Salons, E-tailers

Be Per-Sueded with the richness and luxury of Suede by OPI. A new collection of six best selling colors available in lush, shimmering metallic finishes.

The matte craze has exploded this year - from flatte paint and shimmering textures to the pure brilliance of no-shine top coats. There's pretty much a choice for everyone and every budget. Following up from the previous Matte collection, OPI introduces one-of-a-kind, Suede.

Shall I start raving now, or save it for later? These are spectacular. Each color is insanely opaque and loaded with glistening, metallic shimmer that dries to a satin or velvety finish.

Before we get to the goods, let's take a minute to recap application. Like most matte polishes, it's not recommended to wear a base coat. But in my personal experience, a base coat don't hurt as long as your nails are completely dry and free of natural oils or lotions. Another difference is the formula. Smooth, flawless and perfect. Bravo, OPI!

Check em' out!

You Don't Know Jacques Suede started a new era of the mushroom color, released in the Fall 08 Le Collection De France is a golden brown with silver shimmer.

 You Don't Know Jacques with glossy top coat.

Russian Navy Suede was my first navy blue crush, released from the Winter '07 Russian Collection is a blue with silver shimmer. 

Russian Navy Suede with glossy top coat.

We'll Always Have Paris released from the Fall '08 La Collection De France is a purple plum with silver shimmer.

We'll Always Have Paris with gloss top coat. 

Lincoln Park After Dark released from the Winter '05 collection is a purple with silver shimmer. 

Lincoln Park After Dark with glossy top coat.

Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees Suede released from Winter '09 La Coleccion de Espana is a charcoal grey with silver shimmer. It's much different from the orginial, smokey blue shade.

Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees with glossy top coat.

Ink Suede released from the Summer '07 Night Brights Collection is a blue-purple with silver shimmer. Ink is just a tad more purple compared to Russian Navy Suede.

Ink Suede with glossy top coat.

Mixing combinations can be so much fun! How cute is We'll Always Have Paris with polka dots?

All in All, Fabulous collection! The Suedes are versatile - you can wear them glossy or matte; both ways look great. Smooth formula and flawless application.

What do you guys think of the Suede Collection? Which ones did you pick up? Have a wonderful night!

Quick Poll

FEATURED - Friday, January 15th 2010

MAC in Lillyland Collection: Coconut Ice, Steamy

Product: MAC in Lillyland Collection, Nail Lacquer .40 oz

Price: $12.00/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: MAC, Macy's, Nordies

"When MAC meets the lore and legend that is Lilly Pulitzer, you get a fabulous and funky fun new chapter: a bit of Mar-a-Lago, some well-to-do winky-wink, and a dash of retro-modern pop culture mayhem in prints and colours that make it hip to be in permanent happy land!

MAC Cosmetics newest collection, MAC in Lillyland launches with two fresh and colorful Nail Lacquers for Spring. Steamy, a permanent color, is a hot pink creme and Coconut Ice, limited edition, is a peachy sorbet treat.

Check out the swatches.

Coconut Ice is a yummy confectionary sweet made from coconut, sugar, eggs, and milk. Depending on the food coloring, it can range between a whitish/red or pink tint.

MAC represents Coconut Ice in the Lillyland collection as a bright peachy-pink creme perfect for Spring and Summer on those tootsies.

Do we really have to talk about the formula... because I'm so bummed with a capital B? Gorgeous shade, but the application was troublesome. No matter what method I tried, I couldn't get away from streak lines.

Check out some comparisons below. 

Coconut Ice is brightened, less pastel and more pink compared to MAC's Seasonal Peach. A good alternative is Barielle's Blossom, which leans towards peach.

Steamy is a MAC core line shade, described as a hot pink creme.

Are you feeling Coconut Ice? Did you pick up anything from MAC in Lillyland Collection? Have a wonderful Friday! TGIF!

FEATURED - Thursday, January 21st 2010

Nina Ultra Pro: Crushed Velvet Collection

Product: Nina Crushed Velvet Collection, Limited Edition Nail Lacquer .5 oz

Retail Price: $3.49/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sally Beauty Stores

Last week when I stopped by my favorite beauty store to pick up some nail gel, I stumbled across a sweet, limited edition collection from Nina Ultra Pro that caught my eye.

The Crushed Velvet Collection introduces six, hi-gloss metallic nail lacquers laced with stunning flecks of gold shimmer. For the most part, each color is well pigmented and has a foil-y metallic finish. With the exception of Vintage Velvet, all shades applied smooth with two coats.

Are you ready for some swatches?

Vintage Velvet - is a gorgeous green metallic with flecks of gold shimmer. 

Velveteen Rabbit - is a mixture between a white gold and bronze metallic with flecks of gold shimmer.  

Viva La Velvet - is a red metallic with with flecks of gold shimmer. 

Velvet Underground - is a purple grape metallic with gold shimmer flecks.

Velvet Revolver was the only color from the collection that has a true metallic finish without flecks of gold shimmer. You'll notice in my swatches, the streak lines are more visible compared to the others.

Velvet Seas - is a blue green metallic with flecks of gold shimmer. 

And for the Matte Edition starring Essie's Matte About You. 

 

Overall, Great Collection for the metallic or foil lover. Nina Ultra Pro polishes are Big 3 free of toxic chemicals. Nice variety of colors, smooth application and reasonably priced for the budget savvy diva.  

My favorites: Velveteen Rabbit, Velvet Seas, Velvet Underground and Vintage Velvet.

How do feel about Nina Ultra Pro polishes? What are some of your favorite colors from the collection?

FEATURED - Friday, January 29th 2010

New from ManGlaze: Matte is Murder, Hot Mess

Product: ManGlaze Matte Nail Polish and Top Coat

Retail Price: $6.66 - $13.13/ea

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Online at ManGlaze

Who was the first to revive this long lost trend? It was ManGlaze... As my first no-shine experience, they hold a very special place in my heart and I'm super excited to test drive three new products. In this review, I'll be covering two new polishes: Matte is Murder and Hot Mess. Stayed tuned for my post on Matte Astrophe.

ManGlaze has the "strong enough for a woman, but intended for a man" vibe goin' on.  But who's keeping tabs, really? The stuff is tuff and I love it. What's even better is the smooth application. The formula is opaque and all you need is two coats to get the job done.

Ready for some swatches?

Our revised Black Matte Nail Colour is now more Awful than the Original! Matte is Murder is an updated version of Death Tar. It's a deeper black with the same rainbow shimmer.

For my glossy lovers.

 

(AKA FishDicks) The glossy destroying power as Matte Astrophe. Hot Mess is the shizz in short... A  silver, glittery top coat that dries to a matte finish. You might not notice the matte finish at glance, just give it a touch... So smooth and non gritty! Love! 

Dress up your mani! Hot Mess really shines when layered over different nail colors. All you need is one coat, just enough for the base to show through. 

Just for old times sake, Fuggen Ugly. A gorgeous gray with same rainbow shimmer as Death Tar.

Overall, Love! ManGlaze has the most creative bottle designs; each one is a work of art. The Formula is safe, Big 3 Free - which translates to safe for pregnant woman. Application is perfecto. My favorite from the bunch is Hot Mess. I can't wait to experiment with different base colors!

Oh, I forgot to mention that there's a limited supply (less than 1500/ea) of Hot Mess and Matte Astrophe.

What do you guys think? Have you picked up any ManGlaze? Have a wonderful weekend!

Disclosure: The following product(s) was provided to Steph's Closet by the manufacturer or PR company for consideration.

FEATURED - Monday, March 1st 2010

Going Green: China Glaze Emerald Sparkle

Happy Monday! Hope y'all had a wonderful weekend. It's officially March, can you believe it? A month long celebration of green is in order, don't ya think? Today I'm starting out with one of my favorite greens from China Glaze.

Let me count the ways I love thee! Emerald Sparkle is a deep emerald green that's ridiculous. This little package has it all - glitter, sparkle and color. It's dazzling in all ways. The application is great too, two coats for full coverage.

Check out a mattified version below.

You can still find Emerald Sparkle at Head2Toe, TransDesign and other e-tailers. What's your favorite green? Have a wonderful night!

FEATURED - Wednesday, March 3rd 2010

Going Green: Nubar Reclaim Nail Polish

Happy Hump Day! How is your Wednesday going? Since Spring is right around the corner, I thought it was necessary to salute with all-star green from Nubar's fabulous Summer '09 release.

Don't be surprised if you see the entire collection featured this month, because frankly, it's well deserved! Nubar hit the collection spot on, perfect 5 stars in my eyes.

Reclaim is a grassy, spring approved green with a smooth holographic effect. She's perfectly flawless in every way. And you won't find another alike.

If you love green and matte stay tuned, I have a special treat to share tomorrow and it's not Zoya Veruschka - but just as worthy.

Did you guys pick up Nubar's Going Green last year? What are your faves from the collection?

FEATURED - Thursday, March 4th 2010

Going Green: Icing Lucky Charm, Lucky Lady

Are you guys ready for a double shot of GREEN from Icing by Claire's? I'm uber excited to share two new colors that's hot off the press. Lucky Charm (above) is the perfect glitter to sport on St. Patty's Day. It's described as a fine green glitter based in a clear polish.

Even though I used four coats in my swatch above, you can probably get by with three thicker ones. And the finish dries to a gritty matte texture - but nothing a thick top coat can't fix.

Check out Lucky Lady below.    

I feel like one Lucky Lady to stumble upon this gorgeous green, on top of that it's a shimmering MATTE! Everyone's hoping aboard the matte train nowadays including Icing. They had a few other colors to choose from, but nothing as spectacular as this one.

How is the application you ask? No swipe lines! Absolutely flawless! Perfection! I'd say Lucky Lady is one of the slowest drying mattes out there, which is what I prefer anyways.

Check out a glossy version below.

And if you're not a matte lover, no worries - just add a glossy top coat. 

When I first saw Lucky Lady, Veruschka came to mind. As you can see, Zoya's has much more shimmer, but all in all both are close in base color.

What do you think of Icing's new greens? Have a wonderful Thursday!    

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