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FEATURED - Tuesday, December 11th 2007

Trend Alert: Chanel Blue Satin Nail Polish SS 2008

I can remember when Chanel introduced Limited Edition Black Satin 219 nail polish back in 2006.  This popular nail polish was flying off the shelves left and right.  It was going for $50-$100 per bottle on ebay, when its nomally priced at $19.  Celebrities even confessed to the extremes they went through just to get a bottle.  Luckily, I purchased Black Satin before it was impossible to find.  Due to it's popular demand, Chanel brought it back, and is now one of their stocked colors.

So, what is it about Chanel limited edition nail polish colors that makes everyone so crazy?  The beautiful, rich unique colors but, most importantly the name Chanel. Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel's fashion designer, extraordinarily passionate, assertive, and undeniably brilliant.  How can we expect any less than that, we can't!

Chanel is introducing Blue Satin, a limited edition color for Spring 2008.  I was one of the lucky ones that pre-ordered 2 bottles online from Neiman Marcus.  This is going to be hotter than the Black Satin craze.  If you can get your hands on some, I suggest you act fast!  Chanel is keeping quiet about this one, but, I expect them to release mid-December to Janurary.  The Sales Assosicates (SA's) at the Chanel counter are pretty useless when it comes to release dates, so my advice, don't waste your time trying to get information from them until the day it is released.

If you are a fan of OPI Russian Navy like I am, you will absolutely love Chanel Blue Satin.  I expect my order to come in before Janurary 1st.  Don't forget to enter your chance to win a free bottle of Chanel Blue Satin.

FEATURED - Friday, December 14th 2007

Chris Daughtry: Music King 2007

American Idol finalist, Chris Daughtry has every reason to smile these days.  He sold and incredible 3.2 million copies in the U.S. as reported by Billboards, which makes him Music King 2007.

Coming in second is Akon, with 2.7 million copies sold.  Others include: Miley Cyrus with 2.5 million, Fergie with 2.4 million and American Idol winner Carrie Underwood with 2.3 million.

This news thrills me!  I was rooting for Daughtry all the way for American Idol.  He may have been a finalist in American Idol, but look who came out on top as Music King 2007!  Eat your hearts out baby! 

Sunday, December 16th 2007

Chanel Blue Satin 461: It's been officially released

It's officially here, Chanel Limited Edition Blue Satin nail polish.  It's a beautiful to die for color! Certainly a must have color for the spring! Blue is going to be the "IT" color for spring 2008.  So, be sure you get your hands on some, quick! It's already selling out at the Chanel counters and going for $60 a bottle on ebay! And, It was just released!  

Orginially, I pre-ordered from Neiman Marcus, but, due to the high volume of backorders, they are heavily delayed and will have to cancel many orders.  So, I wasn't about to wait and take that chance.  I jumped in my car and headed to the nearest Chanel counter.  Luckily, they had very few left.  I must say it is totally worth the wait.  This color is going to be "IT".  Ever since I saw Emily, in The Devil wears Prada, I've been waiting for Chanel to come out with a Blue color.  OPI Russian Navy fans this color is very similar, but,  Russian Navy has more pink-ish undertones tones, and Blue Satin does not.  That's one of the reason why I love Blue Satin as opposed to Russian Navy. 

Don't think I wasn't thinking about all my readers!  I picked up three extra bottles that I will be giving away FREE !  Just subscribe to my newsletter and you will automatically be entered at a chance to win this beautiful color.  The three Blue Satin pictured above are the actual bottles I will be giving away.  Don't forget to subscribe for your chance to win! Subscribing gives you the ability to get news updates, leave comments, ask questions, and more!  Click here for the first giveaway date.

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 - Monday, January 28th 2008

OPI India Collection: Spring Summer 2008

  

OPI Introduces India Collection for Spring Summer 2008.  This India Collection is focused around sunny, high-energy pallette for the nails and lips. This season trends will include: hats, brightly colored bangles, metallic clutch purses, and India inspired beading and embelishments.

I'm really loving OPI India's Collection and China Glaze OMG Collection for Spring and Summer 2008.  Essie and Zoya is taking a different route by introducing sheers and neutral colors for their Spring Collection.  Neutrals are nice, but I need bold colors for Spring and Summer! 

Move over Blue Satin and Russian Navy, OPI Yoga-ta Get This Blue is in town and is on Fire!  OPI introduces a new blue nail polish in this collection, which I cannot wait to see!  See the nail polish colors and names below. 

I'm Indi-a Mood for Love - Hot Pink	Yoga-ta Get This Blue - Dark Blue
Get Me to the Taj on Time - Pale Opal	Curry Up Don't Be Late - Metallic Gold
Charmed by a Snake - Bronze	Lunch at the Delhi - Coral
Royal Rajah Ruby - Burgandy	ElePhantastic Pink - Light Pink
Black Cherry Chutney - Dark Blackish-Red	Keys to my Karma - Rich Red
MonSooner or Later - Orange	Moon Over Mumbai - A Soft Gray

Check out the Reviews and Swatches for this collection.

{Photo via: Ball Beauty}

Wednesday, February 6th 2008

OPI India Collection: Review and Swatches

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Below are some photo swatches I took from my salon.  

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

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

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

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

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!

Wednesday, February 13th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Fafi Merchandise Haul

MAC Cosmetics officially releases the Fafi Collection nationwide to MAC stores, and other fine department stores.  Here is some of the merchandise that I picked up online, because I knew my store wouldn't have stock. 

Small Fafi Cosmetic Bag.  Limited Edition.  $25.00 USD.  This has to be my favorite item of my merchandise haul.  It is the perfect size.  Don't let the "small" mis-lead you in anyway.  This is not small by any means.  In the picture above, I put 5 MAC Lipsticks and 4 Lipglasses, and you can see it's not even half full.  So, it has plenty of room.  I also might pick up the mini one, so I can keep in my purse filled with lipsticks, glosses, etc.  

Fafi Scarve.  $15.00 USD.  Limited Edition.  I really like the scarve, and at $15.00 it's quite a steal.  Put it in your hair, on your purse, or even around your neck!  This is a  "Sold Out Item" on the MAC website.  Hopefully, you can find it at your local store.

Fafi T-Shirt.  $38.00 USD.  Limited Edition.  Not as cute as Barbie loves MAC t-shirts, but, still buy worthy.  These shirts are really cute.  In my opinion, they look cuter if they are form fitted and paired up with the scarve as a bandana and some big hoop earrings.

 

Fafi Dolls.  Limited Edition $9.00 USD.  These are adorable and at $9.00 each, why not pick up one, two or even three!  The Dolls are pretty small, about the size of a MAC Lipglass.

Tomorrow, I am off to the MAC store to check out the makeup.  I didn't want to go today, because I get so claustrophobic when tons of people are in the store, when a collection releases. 

Stay tuned for reviews and swatches on the makeup.

Tuesday, February 12th 2008

OPI India Collection: More Product Photos

This is one of my favorite OPI India Collection promo ad's.  That color on her toes look amazing!  Model above is wearing Curry Up Don't Be Late.  Described as a sheer gold color with yellow undertones. I think this color is more appealing to the warmer tone crowd.   Warm toned or not, I love this color!

 

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 - Wednesday, February 27th 2008

Dior: Limited Edition Poison Blue Nail Polish

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, March 10th 2008

Nail Polish: Photo Swatches

MAC Cosmetics, Whirlwind, nail polish photo swatch from the 2007 Storm Signals Collection.

MAC Cosmetics, Girls will be Girls and Boom, nail polish photo swatches from the 2008 Fafi Collection.

 

 MAC Cosmetics, Steamy nail polish photo swatches from the 2007 Barbie loves MAC Collection. 

Dior Vernis, Bleu Poison, nail polish photo swatch.  A 2008 Limited Edition color exclusively at Sephora.

OPI, MoonSoon or Later, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring/Summer 2008 India Collection.

OPI, Lunch at the Delhi, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring/Summer 2008 India Collection.

OPI, Yoga-ta Get this Blue, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring/Summer 2008 India Collection.

OPI, Charmed by a Snake, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring/Summer 2008 India Collection.

OPI, Curry Up Don't Be Late, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring/Summer 2008 India Collection.

 

 China Glaze, Unplugged, nail polish photo swatch from the Spring 2008 ecollection.

 China Glaze, Hybrid, nail polish photo swatch from the spring 2008 ecollection.

 China Glaze, Shower Together, nail polish photo swatch from the spring 2008 ecollection.

China Glaze, Recycle, nail polish photo swatch from the spring 2008 ecollection.

China Glaze, Solar Power, nail polish photo swatch from the spring 2008 ecollection.

 China Glaze, Tree Hugger, nail polish photo swatch from the spring 2008 ecollection.

 

Sally Hansen, Color Quick Fast Dry Nail Color Pen photo swatch in, Hot Pink. 

Stay tuned for more photo swatches.

Saturday, March 8th 2008

Trend Alert: Safari Style for Spring and Summer

No time for an African Safari?  No worries, we have you covered!  Safari style hits the fashion industry hard for spring and summer!  Exotic prints and safari style are gearing up for the summer and I am totally in love with this trend!  Beautiful, glistened golden-bronzed, oh my, this is right up my alley!

Pictured above are some of my top picks from Nordstrom.  Accessorize baby: Oversized wood, exotic, and resin bangles are a "must have" accessory this summer!  Don't be afraid, stack em up!  2, 4, or even 7, you can't go wrong with bangles and braclets!  Very Zexy!

The next must have accessory is shoes.  My jaw literally dropped when I saw the Kate Spade exotic print heels.  Although, a hefty price tag at $295, definitely this is a splurge not must have, but, wow.  Very shagadelic baby!

Nothing better than a perfectly matched manicure to go with this exotic safari trend.  Try OPI's Charmed by A Snake (a bronzed shimmer color) and Curry up Don't be late (a sheer gold glistened color) two colors I absolutely adore!

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?

Tuesday, March 18th 2008

China Glaze Ecollection: Review and Swatches

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Saturday, March 22nd 2008

Jennifer Lopez Deseo Fragrance: Review

Deseo means desire..wish...dreams..things you want.  It just seemed perfect for this time in my life.  I want to inspire people to dream and want more, and never stop reaching for the things they want to accomplish in their lives.  That's really the scentiment behind deseo. -Jennifer Lopez.

A floral woody fragrance.  Deseo is a sensual scent desired inspired by a midnight walk through a rain-kissed tropical garden.  A sparkling burst of fresh orange blossom and pink geranium luxurite with a hint of mineral notes and sensual amber.

I personally love Jennifer Lopez's fragrances.  The original Glow and Miami Heat is my all time favorite fragrances, and the one I get compliments on the most.  So, I was really interested in testing her new fragrance out.  As it happened, I received a sample in my Macy's catalog, and loved it at first scent, as you might say!  This fragrance reminds me of a sweet tropical island scent, that is perfect just in time for the hot months ahead.  There is something about similar about this fragrance that reminds me of Miami Heat.  It's a very sweet, summery scent.  I don't think this is a fragrance I will be wearing all year long, just during the hot summer months.  All ages approved, I think anyone, any age, can wear this tropical scent, I love it! 

The packaging re-invents bling, and what girl doesn't like bling, bling, baby!  A dazzling diamond cut gemstone like flacon which emerges from a simple natural pack.

Monday, March 24th 2008

The Hills Gang Returns Tonight

The Hills girls are back!  Don't miss out an on a action packed episode tonight at 10:00 on MTV.  I personally can't wait to see the the hills crew again!  It might be scripted, but, it's my favorite scripted show!

I will be blogging about this right after the show, (yeah I know I'm a dork) but who cares!  I would love to hear your all opinions, if you watch tonights show!

Missed the episode?  Don't worry, check out the recap story.

{Photo via: WireImage}

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 25th 2008

OPI India Collection: Ultimate Summer Accessory

Accessorize this season with OPI's newest collection, India.  If you love color, this is your season to shine and steal the spotlight.  Bold, Beautiful color is truely the "IT" this season and is featured on all the Fashion Runways!

OPI India nail lacquers are the ultimate accessory this season!  India's collection offers a little bit for everyone.  Neutral-to-Darks-to-Brights, they have it all!  I really liked OPI's India colllection this year.  From candy hued dreses in pink, light blue, to all out bright splashes of red's, orange, and yellow.

I knew this collection had many nail capablities, but, wow, this looks smokin!  I would never attempt to do this myself, because I am not patient or steady but, my manicurist on the other hand would give it a shot.  Check out a close up picture below. 

The two colors you will need from the India Collection is, Charmed by a Snake and Royal Rajah Ruby.  But, the directions may seem easier said than done.  This is something I may put my manicurist up to the challange.

If anyone attempts this, please let me know.  I would love to see pictures!

FEATURED - Monday, April 21st 2008

Buxom Babes Lip Tint Collection

Let Buxom Babes spice up your lips this summer!  Inspired by the juicy, fruity flavors they represent, these four beach babe tints go on super sheer and impart a soft wash of mouth-watering color.

Bare Escentuals Buxom Babes Lip Tints create the look of fuller, more voluptuous lips. These bareMinerals-infused polishes impart a luminous high shine with no sticky or tacky feeling. A deep infusion of antioxidant vitamins A and E help keep lips soft, smooth, and protected, while the tingly and cooling sensation reminds you that your lips are getting an immediate increase in fullness.

Buxom Lips is one of my favorite plumping glosses!  So, does it really plump your lips?  Honestly, who knows.  In my opinion; I think the tingly sensation teases your brain, and the super shinny gloss gives your lips the larger appearance.  That's just my take on it!

Anyway, these are fabulous!  Extremely sheer, super shiny, and yum, they taste good!  Limited Edition and only available at Sephora.  Retail Cost $28.00 USD.  Check out the photo swatches below.

The collection includes a 0.07 oz Cherry Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish (sheer poppy shine/cherry-scented), a 0.07oz Coco Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish (sheer butter shine/coconut-scented), a 0.07 oz Margarita Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish (sheer raspberry shine/berry-lime scented) and a 0.07 oz Melonie Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish (sheer fuchsia shine/melon-scented).

FEATURED - Tuesday, April 22nd 2008

Nail Polish Love: Dior's Golden Nugget

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Friday, April 25th 2008

MAC Cosmetics: Cool Heat Collection For Summer

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

Perfumes (Creations): $22.50 USD

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

Eye Shadows: $14.00 USD

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

Slimshines: $14.00  USD

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

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

{Source: Specktra}

FEATURED - Friday, May 2nd 2008

Drugstore Haul: Milani, Max Factor, Lashblast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Friday, May 2nd 2008

OPI Summer Sneak Peek: Mod About Brights

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

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

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

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

 

FEATURED - Friday, May 9th 2008

Trend Alert: Lavender Purple Nail Polish

Product: Purple Haze Nail Polish

Price: $18.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Rescue Beauty Lounge

Recommend: Yes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Wednesday, June 4th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Dior Golden Nugget

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great day peeps!

xoxo

FEATURED - Monday, June 9th 2008

CVS Drugstore Haul: Sally Hansen, Cover Girl

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Thursday, June 12th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Nicole Blue Lace

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

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

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

    

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

FEATURED - Monday, June 16th 2008

Lucky's July Issue: CoverGirl Promo Ad

I ran across this promo ad in July's issue of Lucky.  Covergirl featured this promo ad for their new Blast collection.  Bright, bold new shadows, in 23 bold new shades, to go with your big, bold, Lash Blast lashes.  This ad automatically grabbed my attention and jet setted my lemmings list!  The look above: Eye enhancers in Lime Alive, Gold Sizzle and Coral Jungle.  Some suggestions for MAC dups: CG Lime Alive = MAC Eyepopping (c-shock), CG Gold Sizzle - MAC Golden Lemon Pigment.

I purchased Covergirls Kaboom Kelly and Gold Sizzle a couple weeks ago.  And, was fairly disappointed in Gold Sizzle because the color pay-off just wasn't there.  But, the gorgeous quad below really has me second guessing.

Just look at that Tropical Fusion Quad - I love the bold bright colors Covergirl is starting to offer.  Take a second glance at the quad in the promo picture?  Look familiar?  It's our friendly neighbor, MAC.  Let's just say by looking at the promo pictures it looks dead on the c-shock collection from last summer.  Big Bang Blue, Big-T, Fab & Flash and Eyepopping.

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

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

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 - Friday, June 20th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Nicole Virtuous Violet

Happy Friday, ya'll!  The weekends about here and I wanted to spice it up with something fun for tonight.  Nicole by OPI in Virtuous Violet has been sitting on my shelf screaming to be used for quite sometime now.  And, what on earth was I waiting for?!  I usually buy polishes on a whim and just forget about them, until one day.   Virtuous violet turned out to be so much prettier than I ever excepted.  You can never judge a nail polish color by it's bottle - that's what I love.  The shades are always unpredictable.

The texture and shimmer reminds me of OPI's Russian Navy and Ink.  Vitruous violet can easily be the cousin of those two colors.  Think ink and russian navy but with an periwinkle purple base color.  Looking at the bottle you don't see the periwinkle color because it applies rather sheer.  But, the blue and pink shimmer makes it a deeper purple.  I used three coats in my photo swatches.

What is Nicole by OPI?  Don't let the Nicole name fool you because the quality is just as good as professional OPI.  This brand is marketed for the average consumer verses the salon quality. ;You'll notice that Nicole is sold in most your local walmart, target, and many others.  I didn't put on a top coat until this morning and it was in perfect shape.  It may have been sheer but the quality was just as good.  Check out some comparisons below.

Check out some photo comparisons below.

Sally Hansens's Spark and is almost 100% identical to OPI's Russian Navy.  I have yet to see a comparison this close!

Have a great weekend peeps. Be safe.

FEATURED - Monday, June 23rd 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Nicole's Fav

Ya'll have to check out the Nicole by OPI brand, seriously!  The unique nail polish colors are just as fabulous as OPI.  Today's polish is named Nicole's Fav and I can see exactly why it's her fav!  The color is described as an gorgeous vibrant orange with gold shimmer.  A perfect color for summer and to go perfectly with all the summer collections out there.

Everything was perfect about this color - the pay-off is amazing and only two coats of color needed.  Check out some close up pictures below.

The swatch above was taken in natural light and below in sunlight. 

Amoungst all my polishes, orange is a shade you won't see much - only because I haven't found a nice, wearable color.  So, I'm happy to add this to my small and growing orange collection.  In the meantime, check out Stephanie at The Polish Addict orange comparison's.  Her nails rock.

Hope your having a great day!

FEATURED - Tuesday, July 1st 2008

July Giveaway: Covergirl Tropical Fusion Quad

 

On my recent drugstore haul, I literally stumbled across a covergirl tropical fusion quad.  This baby was sitting in the shampoo isle just waiting to be found.  There's been countless occasions that I've put something back and totally regretted it later!  Even after all this time, I still make the same mistake - will we ever learn!?  Anyways, I was thinking about all my readers that couldn't find this.

Details:

Covergirl Tropical Fusion Quad 205 Brand new full bottle Chanel Blue Satin Victoria's Secret Lip Gloss

How do I enter:

Simple!  Just post a comment. Anyone that has a email address can post a comment on Steph's Closet.  Please make sure email address is current for contacting reasons only!  Email addresses are NEVER displayed or given out at anytime.  Must be a U.S. or Canada mailing address Only one entry per person Winner will be chosen by random and announced towards the end of July.

The winner's been announced for July's giveaway!

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 2nd 2008

Chanel Gold Fiction and Kaleidoscope Swatches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - 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 22nd 2008

Pedi of the Day: Chanel Rodeo Drive

My pedi of the day is the beautiful, Rodeo Drive from Chanel's Robertson Blvd Collection and is my favorite shade out of the collection.  A very pretty lilac purple color with subtle silver shimmer makes this color quite unique in my nail polish collection.

There's been quite a few mixed reviews regarding the new Robertson Blvd collection - some bad, and some good.  Overall, most of the polishes applied flawlessly for me with two easy coats.  The yellow shade was the only color I had application problems but, every yellow shade is difficult in my opinion.  I'll be elborating a little more when LA Sunrise is featured as my pedi.

Check out some comparisons below.

I don't own many lilac purple colors because this shade is quite new to the fashion industry and was just introduced last year.  The most obvious comparisons are Chanel Rodeo Drive and Rescue Beauty Lounge's Purple Haze which are completely different in their own way.  Purple Haze is navy blue based violet/purple compared to a true lilac purple.

Hope everyone is having a fabulous day! 

FEATURED - Wednesday, July 23rd 2008

OPI Gears up for Beverly Hills 90210

Brush with Greatness 90210 Style

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

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

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

{Source: Nylon Mag}

FEATURED - Friday, August 1st 2008

Update: July Covergirl Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Saniya!  She was randomly picked for the Covergirl July giveaway, woot woot!  A special thanks to everyone that contributed this month.  Didn't win, don't worry - stay tuned for details on August's giveaway.

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 - Monday, August 25th 2008

Givenchy Vernis Please in Dandy Moire

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

FEATURED - Friday, August 29th 2008

Product Review: Sephora by OPI Remover

Product: Sephora by OPI Polish Remover

Price: $5.00

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Sephora

Recommend: Yes

Summary: A non-drying nail color remover that quickly and effectively removes even the darkest shades of nail lacquer.

Sephora by OPI Nail Colour Remover is a fast, gentle nail polish remover without harsh, drying effects or the tell-tale white residue left behind by traditional acetone nail polish removers. The superior formula contains grape seed oil, vitamin E, and extracts of sea kelp and aloe vera, making it more effective than traditional formulas.

A few weeks ago, I was placing a Sephora order online and need five bucks to meet the free shipping requirement and Sephora by OPI nail polish remover was the lucky winner.  Finding a high quality nail polish remover is extremely important to me.   I'm not a hard core swatcher like some of my fabulous fellow beauty blogger gals - Steph, Scrangie, Michelle - but, I do find myself removing polish quite frequently at least more than I'd like.

Let's start with the negative and the only downside - the price.  Wow, this remover goes awfully fast when your constantly using it.  $5.00 for 2oz, doesn't go a long way.  But, it's so wonderful, I'm willing to overlook that part.  If you tend to use remover one or twice a week this will last for sometime.  Now, if your like me this could end up being a costly nail polish remover in the long run. 

Now, the good and there's so much of it!  The light fragrant scent is perfect - it don't fill up the room with those "gag-like" nasty fumes.  Vitamin E and the other added benefits kept my nails and cuticles heavily moisturized from drying out which was amazing.

My two biggest complaints about nail polish remover is the dryness and strong toxic fumes.  And,  Sephora by OPI passed with flying colors. 

The result - my nails are as hard as a rock - not soft and brittle!

FEATURED - Monday, September 22nd 2008

Fall 08 Collection: Borghese Wines of Tuscany

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

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

Check out the photo swatches below.

 

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

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

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

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

Hope ya'll had a wonderful weekend!   

FEATURED - Monday, September 22nd 2008

Fall 08 Swatches: Nicole By OPI

While I was shopping at my local grocery store the other day - I stumbled upon a new Nicole by OPI display that caught my attention. Pictured above,  On Nicole's Wish List,. a translucent milky clear loaded with white and silver shimmer.  On my swatch, I just applied two coats on my natural nail.  You can also use this over a off white or a silver polish that would look fab.

The next three swatches below are all black based polishes loaded with shimmer - that are simply divine.   

Black to the Future - a black with purple shimmer.  Two coats gives you good coverage and three gives you more of a purple shades.

Blue's in the Night is my favorite shade I purchased.  A black with navy and aqua blue shimmer.

Midnight Madness - Although this may look similar to Blue's in the Night but, it's a little different.  A black with turquoise shimmer.  Later, I'll be comparions side by side swatches of these two.

The new fall and holiday colors should be available now or within the new week.  Keep your eyes out because these are truely unique shades for black lovers.

FEATURED - Wednesday, October 8th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Sephora Metro Chic

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

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

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

 

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

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

FEATURED - Monday, November 9th 2009

New Holiday Mini Sets from Borghese

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

Price: $9.99/per kit

Steph's Rating:

Buy it: Rite Aid, Walgreens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Black Glitter is a opaque black with silver glitter.

White glitter layered over Black glitter.

Next is the Serena Collection. 

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Tuesday, November 4th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Rock the Vote

Can you believe Election Day is finally here, whohoo!  Today I decided to go a little patriot considering this being a history making day with either a black president or a woman vice president.  If your wondering who I voted for?  Obama all the way baby, even though my heart will always be with Hil.

I'll be the first to admit, I'm not an "Nail Art" girl, but polka dots are one of the easiest designs you can do.  The colors that were used are OPI Blue my Mind (two coats), China Glaze High Roller (two coats) and Sally Hansen White Patent leather for the polka dots.

Sometimes I resort to an white acrylic paint for the polka dots because it's thicker and much easier to deal with.  In this case, I just used Sally Hansen's White Patent Leather along with a old MAC 203 lip brush to paint the dots.  When working with polka dots, a fine pointed tip brush seems to work best for me.   

Hope your having a great election day!  Get out there and vote, Change is coming!

FEATURED - Friday, November 7th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: OPI My Private Jet

A few days ago, when I was organizing my nail polish stash, I set aside this piece of eye candy for one of my notd's this week.  OPI's, My Private Jet is unlike any polish.  Described as a smokey gray holographic glitter that looks gorgeous on your nails.

My Private Jet was originally released back in 2007 with the Night Brights collection.  Since then, OPI released a new version that is quite different from the original.  Read more from The Polish Addict on the MPJ drama.

Check out more swatches below. 

 

There's really no way to tell which version if available.  I'd just pick up two bottles and hope for the best. 

Have a fabulous and safe weekend!

FEATURED - Tuesday, November 11th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Petites Shimmering Bark

Shimmering Bark ($1.39) isn't "officially"my nail polish today, but it certainly was a few days ago!  I've been recouping this weekend from watching my four year old neice and didn't have a chance to post this.  Thank goodness we can give her back though - whoa such a handful.

I'm all about different and unique colors when it comes to drugstore nail polishes and Shimmering Bark ranks up there.  A hard shade to describe, mauve/plum/brown/taupe with purple and pink shimmer.  Can that description possibly get any longer, lol?!

It's different, yet a nice fall plummy color to coordinate perfectly with the OPI "France" family.  Priced at $1.39 a pop, Petites offers a nice range of colors including, a few really spectaular shades that I'll be posting as my NOTD's this month.

Petites are available at Walmart stores.  Have a wonderful day!

FEATURED - Wednesday, November 19th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: CK Steele

It was incredibly hard to choose a nail polish of the day with so many new choices from my vacation, but CK Steele ($10) came out on top.  A true metallic steel nail color that's rich and extremely pigmented.

With Steele being so heavily pigmented, my usual three coat "rule" was thrown out the door.  The application only required two coats due to fantastic color pay-off.  However, I did have a little trouble with my application and it wasn't the formula, but more so the wide fluffy brush.

Sometimes a wide brush has their disadvantages, espically in my case.  Since my nail beds are rather small - a full, wide, professional brush may not be best and I found CK's brush just that - fluffy, wide and a litte hard to navigate on my small nail beds.  If you notice a unusually large gap between my cuticle and the nail color, well that's becuase of the wide brush.

Crossing my fingers, hoping it's just a brush defect, which may be a good possibilty.  Regardless of the brush situation, this is a fab-tastic metallic color!  I have another shade coming this week that I'll be testing out. 

CK Calvin Klein cosmetics are only available at Sephora. 

Collections I've had forever, but haven't posted yet: Misa Poised Passion, OPI France, China Glaze Under the Mistletoe, OPI Holiday, OPI by Sephora Swatches, NFU Oh colors, Misa Fall Runway....shoowee - lots to do!

I'm going to leave ya with a little tune-age today.  One of my favorite songs that I listen to compulsive-obsessively! Great song with a good meaning too - check out the lyrics.

 

FEATURED - Sunday, November 23rd 2008

New Nail Colors from Hot Topic

Aren't these the best - bad ass, punk rocker nail polish bottles?  I jus luv 'em.  They speak death by lacquer!  Every few months or so when I visit the dreadful mall, Hot Topic is one of the few stores I always swing by.  It must be my inner punk rockstar screaming to come out.

Their nail polish selection always puts a smile on my face offering - bold, bright and very unique colors.  And, just as I was walking in yesterday, the SA was placing out three new shades, yippee! 

So, Hot Topic don't really have official nail polish names like OPI or China Glaze.  Actually, it's not even printed on the bottles anywhere only on the hard copy receipt.

 

Gray Muted ($2.99) has more distinct gray undertones in real life.  In fact, Saturday, China Glaze's Recyle was my NOTD and under their artificial lighting, I really thought it was an close Recycle dupe.  But, nope - come to find out it's complete different in a good way, of course.

Pastel Purple ($2.99), a lilac purple iridescent and Pastel Pink ($2.99), a "pepto bismol" pink iridescent nail polish.  Both these pastels have an iridescent base like other Hot Topic shades.

 

Here's some other Hot Topic shades I've had in my collection for a while.  Silver Glitter is a nice silver that's a mix of a foil, metallic and shimmer all in one. 

As far as Hot Topic's nail polish quality - well, it's so-so.  Some finishes are perfect and others seem to have thicker consistencies.  But, no worries.  Just a quick fix with a few drops of nail polish thinner.

FEATURED - Monday, November 24th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Hot Topic Gray Muted

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

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

Check out more swatches below.

Some photo comparisons below.

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

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

FEATURED - Friday, November 28th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Claires Cosmetics in Envy

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

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

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

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

Check out some more pics. 

 

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

Envy should be available at all Claire's stores.

FEATURED - Saturday, November 29th 2008

Fall Winter 08: OPI La Collection De France

 

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

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

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

Check out the swatches below. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eiffel for this Color

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

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

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

FEATURED - Sunday, November 30th 2008

Fall Winter 08: Misa Poisoned Passion Collection

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 Candid shot of Dying Love

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

 

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

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

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

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

The Poisoned Passion collection is available at Head2Toe.

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 2nd 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Claires Starry Nights

 

Today's nail polish of the day is Claire's cosmetics in Starry Nights.  Described as a black holographic nail polish with loads of silver glitter.  With the sun not being out for several days now, I was only able to capture these inside with a flash, sadly.

Starry Nights isn't a My Private Jet by any means, but it's a nice alternative espically if your looking for a deeper black color pay-off like myself.

My application was pretty much flawless and only takes two coats to be opaque, which is nice compared to MPJ's three and sometimes four coats.  The texture is somewhat gritty, but now worries, any topcoat can fix that.

I'll be posting photo comparisons tomorrow when I'm able to get some good picutures.

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 2nd 2008

Great Gift Ideas for Nail Polish Lovers

On my recent trip to the Mall last week, I happened to stumble upon these awesome gift sets at Icing.  Each nail polish set consists of five shades retailing between $12.99-$14.99 (set of 5).  And usually, Icing has buy one get one half off too - so that's a steal!

The dark vampy set automatically took me back to OPI's France collection.  Not to be a tease or anything, but I wont' be able to post swatches until tomorrow, hopefully *crossing fingers*.  Sadly, the only way to capture percise images is with the sun.

Stay Tuned!

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 10th 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: Loreal Blue Laguna

Good Afternoon lovelies!  Today's nail polish of the Day is Loreal in Blue Laguna ($4.99).  A mid tone blue with shimmer that applied perfectly in two applications.

Loreal's flat brush really works well with my small nail beds - I actually enjoy appling them.

Whereth have the sun gone to?!  Seriously you guys, it's been MIA for several days now, which only means I'm severly backed up with all my nail swatches.  I'm currently trying to get OPI's Holiday collection posted, but it's just not happening.  

Blue Laguna is a LE color from the summer, but you should be able to find it in stores.  It's been lurking around for months now due to the low popularity.

Have a fabulous day!

FEATURED - Sunday, December 14th 2008

My Favorite Holo: Nicole's Seasons Graytings

How's everyone doing on this unusually warm Sunday afternoon.  Today's nail polish of the day and my all time favorite holographic, Nicole's Seasons Gray-Tings.  A gray based holographic polish that's amazing and beats out my second fave, OPI's My Private Jet.

One thing that makes this shade so spectacular - it's actually gray and only takes two coats to accomplish the bottle color.

Check out more pics below. 

Season's Gray-tings may be a little hard to find, but not entirely impossible.  Hope you guys have a great Sunday afternoon. 

FEATURED - Sunday, December 14th 2008

Winter 08: OPI Holiday in Toyland Collection

This Holiday Season, OPI transports you to a winter wonderland of twelve festive colors with it's new Holiday Toyland collection. 

OPI intoduces a winter collection consisting of six dark & neutral shades and six sparkling reds.

Overall, the hoiliday collection is quite impressive much like their fall France collection.  However, I did have issues with some of the brushes on the lighter colored shades.  When you have a defective brush, it can really ruin the entire application and can be rather frustrating.

 

 

Sheer Your Toys - a silver gray with pink undertones and reddish copper flecks of glitter.  The pink undertones in this shade gives the effect of a sliver lavendar color.

Very interesting and unique shade that accompanied a boat load of application problems.  The wild brissels in my brush made this a little frustrating to apply.

 

You're a Doll - a muted peachy pink loaded down with shimmer. 

 

Glamour Game - a light metallic champagne gold that applied fairly sheer, but three coats gave me pretty good coverage.

My application was a little finicky just like Sheer your Toys, but wow this a such a pretty color.  It almost has a duochrome purplish tone to it.  

Brand New Skates - one of my favorites, is a pewter silver loaded down with goldish glitter.  The glitter gives the appeal of an metallic pewter. 

Baby it's Coal Outside - is a black loaded down with silver and subtle blue flecks of glitter.   It's not secret that black nail polishes are my fave, but I wasn't swooning over this color.

This reminds me alot of Dior's black Sequins except OPI's has 10 times more glitter than Dior's or even Chanel's Black Satin.

 

Play Til Midnight - Two of my favorite colors combined in one.  Blue plus Purple equals Blurple goodness!  This is absolutely stunning and my number one favoirte from the Holiday colleciton. 

A definite must have!

 

The OPI Holiday in Toyland collection is now available at authorized stores and 8ty8 Beauty.  I'll be reviewing each shade more in depth.  Stay tuned.

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 16th 2008

Steph's Closet One Year Anniversary Giveaway

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

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

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

How do I enter:

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

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

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

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

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

The winners are announced!

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 17th 2008

Nail Trends: Chanel Goes Purple for Spring 09

With all the co-motion from the hot new Moscou collection, this little guy was just screamin' to get noticed!  And, darnit I took notice!

For Spring, Chanel introduces two new nail polishes - Django, pinkish peach shimmer and Vendetta, a blue purple with blue and pink shimmer.

Chanel's promo images of Vednetta appeared to be basically a Blurple (Blue + Purple).  So, I wouldn't quite classify Vendetta as a true Blurple like say, OPI's Play til Midnight and neither a "true purple" because there's definitely blue in there.   Did I confuse ya yet?  Colors can be so confusing sometimes, yet so fun!

So, is it dupeable?  Probably.  I have to sort through my Purple's which may take some time considering there's about 300 of them.  And I'm not exaggerating with that number.  Purple is a shade I just can't resist, obviously! lol 

Bottom Line - Vendetta is hot!  After wearing it whole day, I felt - well chanely.  Because after all, Chanel's nail polish is probably the closest thing to feeling rich and luxurious without breaking my bank.  And, Honestly I think that's why alot of us love the polish so much.  It's Chanel for cryin' out loud!

Have a good night peeps!  Any takers?

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 17th 2008

Holiday 08: Chanel Moscou Collection Swatches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 Inside Flash.

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

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

 Inside Flash.

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Tuesday, December 23rd 2008

Nail Polish of the Day: OPI in Jasper Jade

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURED - Wednesday, December 24th 2008

New Line: NYC introduces quick dry nail polish

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

FEATURED - Thursday, August 20th 2009

OPI Fall Matte collection: Review, Swatches

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

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

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

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

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

Ready for some swatches guys?

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

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

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

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

Lincoln Park after Dark, a vampy blackish purple matte. 

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

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

FEATURED - Thursday, January 15th 2009

NOTD: OPI I Get A Kick Out of Gold

Happy Thursday!  Today's nail polish of day is a piece of Gold heaven to cheer up your Thursday blues.  The beauty of OPI's I get a kick out of gold is just breath taking, period blank. 

Described as a muted gold metallic that has an foil like appeal with gold and silver glitter.  Applied perfectly in two coats with no application problems.

I get a kick out of Gold was realeased back in 07 with the Night Brights collection.  So, this may be a little hard to track down, but not entirely impossible.

Hope your having a great Thursday! Keep warm and safe!

FEATURED - Saturday, January 10th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Hot Topic Silver

Happy Saturday everyone!  It's cold, rainy and I'm literally exhausted from going out last night.  What better way to spend the day in bed getting caught up on my blog entries and doing a whole lot of nothing.

Hot Topic in Silver Glitter ($2.99) was my NOTD a few days ago that I forgot to post.  Oops, sorry guys.  Isn't this so Mork and Mindy retro?  Described as a silver foil like metallic that has it going on - fo sho.

This has a little bit of everything.  Glitter, Metallic, Opaque, Foil.  And, only required two coats for bottle color, which is absolutely fantastic for a silver.  Formula was a little thick like most Hot Topic's, but nothing to worry about. 

The only discrepancy I have with Hot Topic is the ackward size of the brush.  It's a little hard to navigate, but I make it work just because their color selection rocks.

You can find Hot Topic nail polish at most Hot Topic stores usually located in Malls or online that retails for $2.99/ea.  Have a fabulous weekend - I'm in for the long haul.

FEATURED - Saturday, January 10th 2009

A Great Alternative to No More War

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

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

Check out some swatches below.

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

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

 

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

FEATURED - Sunday, January 11th 2009

Swatches Galore: Hot Topic Nail Polish

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

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

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

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

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

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

Muted Gray - A stormy blue gray creme.

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

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

Kelly Green

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Chocolate Brown - a dark chocolate creme that applied glossy. 

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

Black Glitter - a black base loaded with silver glitter.

Black Glitter

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

Red Glitter

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

Turquoise Glitter

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

Blue Iridescent

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

Purple Iridescent

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

FEATURED - Wednesday, January 14th 2009

More Fun with Sally Hansens Nail Art Pen

 

Nail Art isn't a new thing.  It's actually been around for years now, but just not practical or simplified for the average person, espically with our crazy work schedules. 

This year, I see Nail Art is becoming one the hottest nail trends.  From your Celebrities to polished professionals - everyones doing it.  And, Sally Hansen Nail Art Pens makes it so much easier without the high cost of salon services.

Hopefully, you guys were able to snatch these up when Walgreens had their Buy One Get One Free Sale last week. 

Check out some designs with the light pink pen. 

OPI Alpine Snow base color plus Fast Dry top coat. Make sure you apply a topcoat before playing with the nail art pens.  Picture taken before applying SH Light Pink Nail Art Pen.

Picture taken after applying Sally Hansen light pink Nail Art Pen.  Wait until the nail art is completely dry before applying a base coat.

See how easy this is?  I wanted to mess around with some simple designs.  The half moon mani on my pinky finger was really easy.

Here's the low down.  I've only seen these available at Walgreens and they retail for $7.99 (.96 oz).  Expensive, Yes.  But, that's your call.  If you can find these on BOGO sales, that's fabulous.

Are these available in Canada?  Have no Clue.  Sally Hansen lacks good customer service.  So, sorry guys I can't answer that for you.  I tried, gals :)  If anyone sees these in Canada, can you please let me know for my readers? 

Some colors I've tested are red, pink, white, gold, silver.  The red pen gave me all kinds of problems.  The formula was orangey and watered down.  I'm not sure if mine was defective or if all are like that.  It just didn't have good coverage as the white and pink pens.

FEATURED - Saturday, January 31st 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: OPI Hollywood Blonde

Hope ya'll are havin a great Saturday morning.  Today's polish, OPI Hollywood Blonde, is a shimmering pink nude that debuted in the '07 Holiday in Hollywood collection.

Blondes do have more fun. The saying don't lie.  And, little miss attention grabber wants you to recgonize and take notice.

It's all thanks to the peculiar shade of Miss Hollywood Blonde that has me turning my hate relationship  for nudes and pinks into la, la, love!

Check out more swatches below.

Outside in Shade

Comparisons of Chanel's Delice, OPI Hollywood Blond and CK's Barefoot.   Hollywood Blonde is a discontinued shade, but I've seen her around Trade Secret and some other beauty stores. 

Have a great day!

 

FEATURED - Wednesday, February 11th 2009

Spring 09 Collection: Sephora by OPI Swatches

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

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

Check out the swatches below.

 

  

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

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

Hi Def - a rich vibrant tangerine creme.

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

 Access 24/7 is a juicy magneta pink creme.

Techno Girl is a pink barbie creme.

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

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

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

FEATURED - Thursday, February 12th 2009

OPI Valentines: Beverly Hills 90210 Swatches

For Valentine's, OPI introduces a new collection inspired by the new Beverly Hills series featured on the CW network.  All three shades are named after the new characters from the CW series.

Back in the day, everyone was watching 90210.  It was just the thing to do.  Brenda, Dylan - Kelly, Dylan.  Emotional, we all were affected by their stupid love triangles.

Last year, when the promo pictures released (see above), I was estatic to see OPI's coming out with a collection to represent my favorite past time crew.   Regrettably, later we all found out that the collection is inspired by the new gang.

No peach pit, green, blue.  Don't ya think the old gang deserves some love -  I do!

Queen of Web-erly, one of my favorites, is a slighty sheer purple mauve with purple and gold shimmer.  Three coats to achieve bottle color.  Note: my swatches were used with three coats, not two.   

 Pretty and Privileged - a ruby red with chunky pink shimmer. 

Sweet as Annie-Thing is a red orange with gold shimmer.  The gold shimmer in Sweet as Annie Thing makes this color orangish when compared to Pretty and Polished. 

The OPI 90210 collection is now avilable at retailers and online and retails between $4.75-$8.00.

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 - Tuesday, February 24th 2009

Spring 09: Color Club Femme Fatale

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

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

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

Check out all the swatches below.

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

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

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

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

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

 

Femme Fatale is a clear base loaded with pinkish shimmer.

 

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

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

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

FEATURED - Thursday, March 5th 2009

Going Green: Green Nail Pic Spam Part One

This is a great image of the actual color representation.  For Audrey's unique shade can be rather difficult to capture digitally. 

Happy Thursday!  Today is the first little segment of my "Go Green" theme this March at Steph's Closet.  Since I have so many greens to show you, I'll be breaking my posts into four seperate parts and featuring each part once a week.  

I wanted to start off with a french mani, because you guys know how much I love those funky colors.  

What I used:  Two coats of China Glaze For Audrey and two coats of my favorite Sally Hansen Nail art pens for the white tips.  The color combination just look stunning and only can image how hot this would look on those tootsies!

China Glaze, For Audrey a tiffany colored green - blue. 

Claire's, Blue for you is a seafoam green with fine shimmer.  Very pretty and feminine for spring.

 

Nars, Mash is a gorgeous deep olive bronze with gold shimmer.  A stunning color, espically for summer.  Looks fab on olive and darker skin tones.

Max Factor, Momentum Moss is dollar store gem, a olive gray metallic with shimmer.

Claire's, Green Confetti is a light green jelly glitter with subtle holographic effects.

Have you guys been in Claire's lately?  They have some pretty spectacular shades for spring.  I have a whole segment planned for those too!

Sally Hansen's, Jumpin Jade screams riches and luxury.  A deep, rich green that's seriously gorgeous!  A great drug store pick.

Maybelline's, Jade Flash is a green with blue undertones, but still falls in the green category.

And here's the two I posted a few days ago.

Icing, Awkward is a mid tone green with gold and subtle blue shimmer.  A great alternative to OPI's, Rainforest.

LA Flairs Girl, Green is a deep green with blue undertones. 

I'll be adding more to this post later this evening!  Have a great one!

FEATURED - Sunday, March 15th 2009

Update: New Hot Topic Nail Color Added

Hope your having a wonderful Sunday afternoon!  Today, I'm adding two new shades to my ongoing Hot Topic swatches.  And, OMG if you love glitters, you have to check this out.  I'll be adding the other color later today.  It's not a glitter - just a teal shimmer. 

Click here to check out the new color.  I've marked the new additions in pink.

FEATURED - Wednesday, March 18th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Stargazer Green 138

Happy Hump Day!  Hopefully you had a safe and terrific St. Patty's day yesterday. Today is just perfect -  sunny and high 70's. I'm sporting an insanely gorgeous green from Stargazer that I just couldn't wait to wear.

138 reminds me of another favorite of mine, OPI Jasper Jade.  Both have a blackish base with green and gold shimmer.  Although, Stargazer has more visible goldish shimmer which gives a brighter appearance compared to Jasper Jade's more blackened green.

Stargazer is a UK based company that offers nail polish, cosmetics and much more! Overall, the quality was perfect besides the fact that the formula was a little on the thick side, but no biggie.  

Check out one more swatch below. 

Hope you have a grand Wednesday!

FEATURED - Thursday, March 19th 2009

Sneak Peek: Chanel Summer 09 Nail Polishes

This summer, Chanel introduces two new warm tones to the Cote D'Azure collection.  A resort destination collection featuring, Golden Sands - a shimmery brown metallic and Orange Fizz - a cool orange coral creme.

Today I had the oppurtunity to play around with Chanel's new summer 09 collection and overall, I'm a little bit disappointed. I found the eye shadow colors to be dark and way too orangey for my liking, even for my warmed toned skin.  And the nail colors - were safe and "typical" summer shades.

As soon as I laid eyes on Orange Fizz in person, I knew it was a close dupe to L.A. Sunset.  Orange Fizz is more dull and has pink undertones compared to L.A. Sunset. And honestly, L.A. Sunset is much prettier & brighter in my opinion. Bottom line - if you have L.A Sunset, I'd pass on this one.

On a side note, Orange Fizz is selling like hotcakes at most of the Chanel counters.

Yep, Golden Sands is a metallic. Man, was I bummed or what.  Me and metallics just don't get along and the same goes for this one. Although, the application was a tad better than Antilope - it's still a metallic. Described as a darker copper sand compared to Antilope's white sand color.

 

Here's a pedicure picture of L.A Sunset from last year. In a couple days, I'll be posting more pics of Orange Fizz in this blog post.

To break it down, Orange Fizz is pretty - but not unqiue. There are several alternatives (some of mine shown above) that are just as good.

Any takers?

FEATURED - Saturday, March 21st 2009

MAC Cosmetics Sugarsweet: Nail Polish Swatches

Seasonal Peach is a perfect example of a fabulous color gone completely wrong. The shade itself is extremely pretty, but the application is a hot mess. If you'll notice in my swatches above, the color has visible streaking - even with three coats.

Described as a pastel peach cream with pink undertones. Seriously, it's really hard not to love this color because it's gorgeous and just pops against warmer skintones.

Most of us will probably be torn on whether to order this color or not due to the bad application.

I do like it though. You could always put Seasonal Peach to work with creative nail art such as polka dots!  I've posted some nail art examples below.

Peppermint Patti is everything I expected and more. The color pops and I just love it. And, if your having second thoughts about this one - don't. The color is fabulous. More than likely, you'll be kicking yourself in the behind for not grabbing this sooner.

Described as a true minty green pastel that was a dream applying compared to Seasonal Peach. So, the application isn't completely perfect with very minor streaking. But, surely a 50% improvement from Seasonal Peach.

The most obvious possible alternative, OPI - Hey get in Lime. Not an exact dupe though, but pretty darn close. OPI's version has more lime green undertones compared to MAC's true minty green.

Here's some polka dot nail art below that I did with both colors.

How cute do the colors go together?! Seasonal Peach my be worth the purchase just for the dots.

Hopefully most of you guys were able to snatch Peppermint Patti before it sold out.  If not, try checking at your local counters, Macy's or Nordies online.

What did everyone end up getting from Sugar Sweet?

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 24th 2009

OPI Spring Summer 09: South Beach Collection

 

This Spring and Summer, OPI dives into the South Beach with splashes of color.  Introducing 12 new shades this season ranging from your pinks, coral, and purples to bronze and nudes.

Today I'm beginning with my six favorite shades from the South Beach collection. Overall, OPI played this collection on the safe side.  We're seeing your typical pink and red corals that's pretty, but not entirely unique. Along with a few suprises such as a Done out in Deco and Bronzed to Perfection.

Most the colors applied smooth like butta with no visible problems. All my swtaches were done with mostly two or three coats - just to even out everything.   

Check out all the swatches.

Feelin' Hot Hot Hot is the shade you've probably seen in the promo images or in your magazines. Described as a bright hot pink with coralish undertones that's more brightened than pictured in my swatches above.

Note: Model in promo image above is wearing Feelin' Hot-Hot-Hot.

Bronzed to Perfection is different and the most unique out of the bunch. Described as a bronzey orange with chunky gold and red shimmer.

It's really hard getting used to this color because I don't own anything like it. Perhaps, maybe in the summer this will look a little better.

Done out in Deco is just stunning and my favorite by far. Described as a pastel lilac purple that certainly compliments warmer skin tones.

Miami Beet is a deep berry purple creme that's much darker than pictured above.

OPI on Collins Avenue is just your standard reddish coral creme. Not so much unique, but looks very pretty on your nails or toes.

Overexposed in South Beach is a pretty purple with purple and pink shimmer.

The South Beach collection is now available at Salons or online at Transdesign.

What's your guys favorites? 

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 24th 2009

OPI Limited Edition: Breathe Life for a Good Cause

The facts will leave you breatheless:

• Lung Cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women, more deadly than the 6 next largest cancer killers combined.
• 60% of new lung cancer victims will be non-smokers
• 85% of those diagnosed with lung cancer will die in 5 years of less.

OPI's Breathe Life Nail Lacquer was created exclusively to help the Lung Cancer Foundation of America in its efforts to find a cure. OPI has also made a donation to the Lung Cancer Foundation. Lung Cancer has stopped our breathing long enough. Now, let's cure it.

Breathe Life is a limited editon, cool silvery blue shade that will be available April 1st at Professional Salons and Ulta locations.

See swatches below.

Breathe Life - is a sheer milky white opalescent loaded blue and shimmer. To achieve bottle color and complete coverage, you'll need around four coats.

Be sure to pick up a bottle for yourself and your mom or friends. It's for a great cause!

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 24th 2009

LA Girls Flare Nail Polish: Swatches, Review

Hope your having a fabulous Tuesday. Spring is officially here and I couldn't be more happier with the weather we've been having this week. A couple weeks ago, I stumbled upon some pretty hot new colors at Forever 21 that I like to share with you guys.

Before I get down to the nitty gritty, let's talk about where these babies are available. You can find LA Girls Flare at Urban Outfitters, Cherry Culture (online) and Forever21 stores usually located in the malls or even online. They retail between $2.80 and $4.00 - depending where you find them.

The nail polish names are kinda tricky and a little bit confusing. Most stores like, Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters just have color descriptions on the sticker (ie: green, blue, coral) rather than the official names (ie: midnight, diva, saharan sand). I've included both names in my swatches, so you shouldn't have any problems.

Formula quality. Being so reasonably priced, LA Flare's formula rocks. I seriously haven't came across one shade that wasn't smooth and opaque. Most colors only required two or three coats at most. And, usually three coats was due to my errors.

I'll be keeping this post active and eventually adding all my LA girls swatches. So, make sure you add this to your favorites!

The best shade out of all my LA Girls Flare nail colors, Midnight Diva (dark purple). Descbried as a blue purple jelly with a rainbow of micro duochrome shimmer (pink, purple, gold, blue).

I couldn't resist posting massive nail spam of Midnight Diva - she's just absolutely breath-taking!

 It's hard to see the different colors of shimmer, but it's definitely there!

Saharan Sand (nude) is another terrific spring shade. An opaque grey beige creme, much like Essie's Body Lanuage that just pops with my skintone (NC-30). Love it.

Flushed (coral) is a great spring color, espically if you looking for alternatives to Chanel's, L.A. Sunset or Orange Fizz. Maybe not an exact dupe, but pretty darn close and certainly not noticeable to the naked eye.

Described as a bright (not neon bright) peach orange creme that was opaque in two coats.

Blazing Hot (coral) is a red coral creme. A great alternative to OPI on Collins Ave or Sephora OPI, Lost without my GPS.

Honeymoon Lavender (lavender) is a blue based mid tone lavender purple that's gorgeous! This would look fab on everyone.

Hello, foil goodness! Irony (silver) is a silver blue foil that's pigmented like crazy.

I pretty muched loved all their new colors! Next time you stop by the mall, why not swing by a Forever21 or Urban Outfitter store - you won't regret it!

Here's some other colors from LA Girls Flare:

Bedazzle (purple) is a blue based purple creme.

 

Galaxy (grey) a stormy grey creme much like Hot Topic's, Grey Muted. Call me crazy, but I would totally rock this color in a professional work atmosphere. A bit daring - but very posh!  

 Tropical (teal) is greenish teal creme.

 Envy (green) is a deep forest green with teal undertones.

 

Twinkling (blue) is a bright (not neon bright) mix between a sky blue and cornflower.

I want to hear your guys favorites? Aren't these colors fab :)

FEATURED - Tuesday, March 31st 2009

Sephoras New Metallic Nail Polish: Swatches

Along with the glittering nail polish, Sephora introduces metallics to the brand. A colorful range of 22 new shades sure to please your appetite.

Each is packaged in a compact, signature, travel friendly bottle sized at 0.16 oz (mini size for your reference). Priced at $5 each and only available at Sephora stores.

Deborah Lippmann's, Purple Rain comes to mind when I think of a true metallic nail polish. So, just to clarify that these are shimmery metallics verses the traditional textures. Thank goodness!

The formula was perfect. Most shades only required a two coat application, which you'll see in my swatches below. And, you don't have to worry about streak lines because these are mostly shimmer based.

Check out some swatches below.

Merengue - a purple pink berry with gold and purple shimmer. This one reminds me of a lighter version of OPI's, Queen of Web-erly.

 Zouk - bright aqua blue with matching shimmer.

Gothik - black grey charcoal with rainbow shimmer.

Modern - rich purple eggplant loaded with blue shimmer.

Fusion - a muted gold bronze that's a close alternative to Covergirl's Bronzed Beauty. Sephora's is more "gold" when compared to Covergirl's "bronze" color.

Overall, if you fancy shimmer based polishes, you'll love these new ones from Sephora. Have a wonderful day!

FEATURED - Saturday, April 4th 2009

Revlon Fruitful Temptations: Scented Nail Polish

Just when you think you've seen it all, BOOM! Revlon drops a fruit sensation delivered right to you fingertips - you'll be sniffin all the way home. These are addicting. No, let me put this clear - these are obsessively addicting!

Revlon introduces eight new scented shades inspired by the freshness of exotic fruits and infused with succulent tropical scents.

Before I get to the review, check out my favorite shade from the collection.

Not So Blue-berry is insanely gorgeous! The color is well worth the purchase alone. Described as a duochrome shimmer that switches from a blue (sunlight) to frosty silver violet (inside) pic below. It's loaded down with silver and rainbow like shimmer.

The scent is a blueberry grape that's quite yummy! You'll be craving your nails and sniffing like a mad man.

To really appreciate the unique shade, you'll have to see in person.

Here's some quick swatches below. All were used with two coats. 

Coconut Crush - white frosty shimmer with a coconut scent.

Mad About Mango - coral orange creme with a mango scent.

Pretty in Papaya, featured in the promo ad, a coral red cream with a papaya scent.

Sublime Strawberry - a mid tone pink with white micro shimmer and a strawberry scent.

Passionate Fruit - magenta purple creme with a berry scent.

Mon Cherry - cherry red creme with a cherry scent.

Raspberry Rapture - raspberry pink creme with a raspberry scent.

Overall, I absolutely loved these and think they'll be a huge hit. What's the one complaint we make about nail polish? The nasty intoxicating fumes. So why not make a nail polish that actually smells good?! Just brilliant!

Once completely dried, you'll notice a light tropical scent in each shade. At first, it's just like any other nail polish when you apply.

Can I use a topcoat? Yep. In my experience, when a topcoat is used the scent wasn't nearly as strong - but it doesn't destroy the smell at the same time. If you feel the smell is a tad overwhelming, it may be a good idea to use a topcoat.

Personally, I skip a clear topcoat because I want to smell the strong fruity scent - that's the benefit! 

How long does the scent last? Suprisingly a long time! For the first 8-12 hours the fruity scent is strong and even after a day or two, you'll notice a faint smell.

When the scent does start to die down, all you have to do is reapply one coat and go!

Are they safe? Of Course!

Fruitful Temptations is a limited edition collection and retails around $4.50/ea. I wanna hear everyone's thoughts? Have a wonderful weekend!

FEATURED - Wednesday, April 8th 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: OPI DS Desire

Happy Hump day ya'll! Today I'm bringing you a lovely holographic shade I picked up from Trade Secret not too long ago. Desire, described as a golden brown holo that applied perfectly with three coats.

Quite honestly, I think holographic textures are the best thing to hit the nail polish industry. Being infatuated with holo's, it's no suprise I fell head over heels with the entire Designer Series line.

The DS line offers a rainbow of colors to choose from and retail around $12.95/ea or $6.95 at etailers or discount beauty stores. Often you can find discontinued DS colors at Trade Secret up to 70% savings.

And, some more nail candy for your viewing pleasures.

DS Couture - peachy pink holographic (more peachy than pink). 

DS Fantasy - a bold, gorgeous royal blue holographic. 

 

DS Exclusive - a berry pink holographic. 

Hope your having a wonderful Wednesday! I have mass swatches to show you guys this week and next - Claire's holo neons, Essie Summer, China Glaze, Massini neons, Orly Tiki, Color Club neon, SH Tracy Reese Spring, Zoya! Shoo wee!

FEATURED - Tuesday, April 14th 2009

Sephora by OPI Summer: Mermaid in the Shade

This Summer is all about the blues, and Sephora introduces six limited edition shades to the Mermaid in the shade collection. A mixture of grays, blue and teals that takes you back to the lazy days at the beach.

Before I get to the official review, all my swatches were taken in two different types of lighting: direct and indirect sunlight.

The application. Most shades I found to be rather sheer and required a minimum of three thick coats or four to achieve bottle color. Other than being mostly sheer, no visible formula problems and a nice collection for any blue lover.

And, here they are!

Water Baby - a semi sheer, mix between white and light gray with fine silver and turquoise blue shimmer. The texture isn't quite a metallic nor a shimmer.

Lagoon a Beach - a semi sheer, light powder blue base with silver and turquoise blue shimmer.

Underwater Fantasy - a semi sheer, light cornflower blue with silver and turquoise blue shimmer.

Just a Fairy Tail - a sheer silver blue base with silver and turquoise blue shimmer that's really pretty. After three thick coats or more, you'll notice Fairy Tail takes on a blue silver foil effect.

Suprisingly, this was one of my favorites. I just love that foil look. 

 

Blue Grotto - is actual only a two coater (ignore my swatch) and the only creme of the bunch. A mixture between a navy blue and royal that applied perfectly in two coats.

We have a few close comparisons to Blue Grotto: OPI's Dating a Royal, China Glaze's Bermuda Breakaway and Misa On the Edge.  Misa's Living on the edge being the closest dupe.

There's always a shade you have high expectations for, and this was it. Mermaid to Order, a blue green frosty metallic with shimmer and yellow undertones.

I was seriously bummed when I found out that Mermaid to Order was a metallic frosty shade. Don't get me wrong, it's a gorgeous shade, but I had my heart set on a blinged out shimmer. And, if you've been reading my blog, you know me and metallics are on a non-speaking basis right now.

The closest comparison I have to Mermaid to order is China Glaze's, Adore from the Romantiques collection. Not exact dupes, China Glaze's is much more blue and Sephora's is more green with yellow undertones.

As far as the application, yes, you can slight stroke lines but it's not as bad as other metallics.

The Mermaid in the Shade collection is now available at Sephora for a limited time only and retails for $9.00/ea.

FEATURED - Monday, April 20th 2009

NOTD: Color Club Revvvolution, Electro Candy

Happy Monday, Ya'll! Did you guys miss me? Last Thursday, I took a mini girls weekend trip to Gatlinburg, TN and was hoping to get my NOTD and POTD up, but as you can see that didn't happen.

Color Club's Revvvolution is one of my favorite holo's from the Femme Fatale collection. The color pay-off is incredible with only two coats needed.

Check out my pedicure below. 

My pedicure is Color Club's Electro Candy with black polka dots from the Neon collection. I haven't had a chance to post yet the Neon collection yet, I'm hoping to get to that today after I get caught up with all my emails and comments.

Disclaimer: Neons polishes are much brighter than the actual swatch and looks great on toes. Hope you had a wonderful weekend!

FEATURED - Friday, April 24th 2009

New Nail Colors from Nicole by OPI

 

Happy Friday, TGIF! Today is going to be a great day. With temperatures sky rocketing to the mid 80's, it's going to be a weekend of summer.

I apologize guys, I've had these new colors from Nicole by OPI since Valentines day, but neglected to post them. They were hiding at the the bottom of my untried basket.

You don't hear enough raves about Nicole by OPI. And honestly, I really love brand as a whole. The colors are unique, espically the older and retired ones. From duochromes, holographic to shimmers - Nicole has it goin' on.

Here are some new colors I picked up a while ago. You can find these at Target, Walmart or Meijer stores that retail around $6.99/ea.

 

Dream Maker - one of my favorites, a light semi sheer pink loaded down with silver and gold glitter that's really pretty.

 

Play Fair - a light lavendar purple with silver and purple micro shimmer.

Imagine If - a clear to silver holographic glitter. A must have for any holographic nail polish lover!

The next three are all metallic/chrome textures that has excellent pigmentation, even with one coat.

It's Possible - a uniquely different color all around, mix between a rose pink and tan metallic.

 Light a Candle - a silvery lavendar purple metallic.

Positive Energy - a silver metallic chrome.

What do you guys think of Nicole by OPI? Have a great weekend ya'll!

FEATURED - Monday, April 27th 2009

Updated Swatches: Sephora by OPI Summer

Hope you guys had an excellent weekend. I'm still battling a severe cold from the drastic weather changes we've been having lately and should be back to normal in the next few days.

In the meantime, I've upgraded all my swatches from the Mermaid in the Shade collection. Click here to view them. Have a great night!

FEATURED - Wednesday, April 29th 2009

Twitter Giveaway: Win Sephora by OPI Blue Grotto

Hey Guys! Next Friday I'm giving away one bottle of Sephora by OPI Blue Grotto from the summer Mermaid in the Shade collection. Make sure you follow Steph's Closet for your chance to win this gorgeous shade!

Don't have a twitter account? No problem, Click here to register. The winner will be announced on Friday, May 8th and randomly picked from my follower list. Good Luck!

FEATURED - Sunday, May 3rd 2009

Nail Polish of the Day: Orly Mint Mojito

Happy Sunday! Hopefully you guys had a wonderful weekend. I was really hoping to get this post in earlier this afteroon, but fell short of time quickly. With all the rain we've been having lately, it feels like ages since I've last swatched anything. I'm back logged like you wouldn't believe.

So, on to this fabulous color from Orly. Mint Mojito, recently released from the Tiki Summer Collection that I have yet to swatch, is described as a true mint green creme. This one is so pretty and a definite standout from the Tiki Collection.

The application was fairly good. A little streaking with the first coat or so, but evened out after the second coat to perfection.

Mint Green is all the rage this season, and Mint Mojito tops that list. The color is really unique and quite different from the other greens we've been seeing such as: MAC Peppermint Patti, OPI Hey Get in Lime, Essie Greenport and rumored to be Chanel in the Fall 09'.

One more swatch below.    

To add a little jazz to Mint Mojito, I applied some blue tips with Sally Hansen's nail art pen. This probably wouldn't look half bad if I didn't gnaw off my pinky nail the day before!

Have a great night and Monday morning!

FEATURED - Tuesday, May 5th 2009

Updated: OPI Breathe Life Swatches

Hope you guys are having a lovely Tuesday. Just a quick update, I recently updated my OPI Breathe Life swatches. Click here to check em out! Have a great night!

FEATURED - Friday, May 8th 2009

Reminder: Last Chance to Win Sephora Blue Grotto

It's Fridayyy - TGIF! Don't forget, today is the last day to get in on the Twitter Giveaway for a bottle of Sephora by OPI in Blue Grotto. So, make sure you are following me. I'll be announing the winner tomorrow. Have a great day!

FEATURED - Thursday, May 14th 2009

OPI Summer Brights: Bright Pair Paige Denim

This Summer, color meets fashion when you pair OPI's brightest new shades for nails "pair up" with the bright new shades of paige Premium Denim.

Bright Pair includes six trend setting new Brights by OPI lacquer choices, which coordinate with six new shades of shorts and crops by Paige, one of today's hottest brands of designer jeans.

Overall, a nice colorful summer collection for any creme lover. Although, I wouldn't really classify these as being bright. Most colors are very wearable for summer. All six shades applied perfectly in two or three coats. All my swatches were done with two coats, even though some could have used three.

On to the swatches.

Shorts Story - is a cool pink creme.

On the Same Paige - reddish orange creme. 

In my Back Pocket - bright orange creme.

No Room for the Blues, the brightest color of the bunch, bright sky blue creme. 

Over the Taupe - a mushroom taupey brown creme.

A Grape Fit, my favorite from this collection, is a deep lavender purple creme.

The Bright Pair Paige Denim collection is now available online at TransDesign or any salon that carries OPI. Each bottle retails between $4.50-$8.50.  

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 - Sunday, June 7th 2009

Pedi of the Day: Teal with Yellow Polka Dots