If you want the Shoemint Jolly's, Check out your local Marshall's for the Steve Madden Tanngoo's!

Steve Madden Tanngoo

If you're already a member of Shoemint, then you're probably already familiar with the three styles released late November. It's been talked about that two of the three styles (Edith and Jolly) have a striking resemblance to a couple of Steve Madden's current designs. Can't say it's a total shocker, considering Steve Madden is the manufacturer of the brand.

I was eyeballing the taupe colored wedge booties for a while, but never ended up getting them because I've seen similar styles in other brands. I'm glad I didn't because I spotted the Steve Madden Tanngoo's at my local Marshall's on Clearance for $40 (regular price $49.99).

What's the difference? The only difference I could spot, are the loop holes for the shoe strings. I actually prefer the Steve Madden's, so total score! 

For reference, I found that these run true to size. I'm an 8.5 and the 8.5 fits perfect, even with a pair of trouser socks. I've read some reviews that the Jolly's fit pretty true as well, despite Shoemint's recommendation of going a half size up.

If you're interested in these, definitely check out your local TJMaxx or Marshall's stores! Most winter boots have been marked down.

Hope you all had a wonderful Holiday! Any plans for New Year's?

Review: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Shape Brow Pencil (Swatches + Before & After)

Maybelline Eye Studio Master Shape Brow Pencil

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 

Master Shade: Subtle color pigments enhance your natural brow look
Master Shape: soft grooming brush adds final definition
Master Hold: exclusive wax technology keeps brows in place

Opthomologist tested - safe for sensitive eyes - Contact lens safe

Application: Fill and define brows using small, light strokes following natural brow shape. Groom brow upward and outward with brush to blend color and set brows.

What it basically is, is a tinted wax pencil. It's a little bit different than a retractable crayon (Maybelline Define-a-Brow or MAC Brows) for instance, as it's less crumbly and less pigmented. It's also the case for a standard brow pencil. Although heavy pigment is awesome for an eyeliner, it's a little less awesome for your brows.

As far as I know, it's available in four shades: Blonde, Auburn, Soft Brown and Deep Brown. This product is so new that it hasn't popped up on the Maybelline website yet, so I'm sure if there are any other additional shades.

 (Photo snapped in Walmart last night) From Left to Right: #260 Deep Brown, #255 Soft Brown, #265 Auburn and  #250 Blonde.

I picked up Deep Brown, as my hair is a very dark brown with no golden tones.

CONTINUE READING FOR SWATCHES + BEFORE & AFTER!

I really like that on the opposite end of the pencil, there is a spoolie (wand) to comb the brows in place. Many brow products have a wand or comb attached, and many of them are of poor quality or are non-functional/impractical. The wand on this pencil works very well.

 

Deep Brown is dark brown, completely absent of any red or orange tones. It's almost a dark, ash brown and matches my brows perfectly. I swatched it next to a few other brow products above for comparison. It's the most similar to MAC Eyebrows in Spiked, but slightly less golden.

First, I'll comb my brows in place with the wand. Then, with the pencil, I'll use light strokes, following the natural shape of my brow. It applies the product smoothly and precise. I love how it's not crazy pigmented, so it doesn't draw harsh lines. I'll comb through my brows again to blend everything together and I'm done!

Although the wax does keep my fine hairs in place, I still need a brow gel to maintain the coarse hairs.

I love the final result! I can't say yet how it holds up throughout the day yet, because I'll need to use it a couple more times, but I will update this post within around a week or so with my final verdict. The only thing I'm worried about, is because it's a wax, I'm worried it will make my brows look oily mid-day.. I'm hoping that won't be the case! I'll keep you posted.

I purchased this pencil at Wal-mart for around $6. I'm guessing this product hit some stores early, but won't make it's real debut until the new year.

UPDATE 1/1/12: I've been using this product for my brows every day, and it's been working great. The product stays put all day without causing my brows to look oily. But, I do have a big gripe with this pencil. HOW IN THE WORLD DO YOU SHARPEN IT?! I've twisted, turned, pushed it and apparently it's not retractable. The pencil itself is plastic.. so obviously it can't be sharpened? I'll e-mail Maybelline and see if I can find the answer.

UPDATE: Apparently, the proper way to sharpen this pencil is with a standard sharpener. Weird, considering it's plastic, but it sharpens just fine. I used my MAC pencil sharpener and it works well. Granted it doesn't give the cleanest outcome, but it's the only way! Kinda stinks because sharpening it doesn't yield a very pointy tip, so I can't be as precise as I'd like to with the pencil. Still, I like the product and will continue using it.

Review: Diorskin Nude Fresh Glow Hydrating Makeup Foundation

 Diorskin Nude Fresh Glow Hydrating Makeup Foundation

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Containing nearly 40% Active Mineralized water, this fluid foundation offers a fresh and hydrating finish. Your complexion appears smooth, silky and feels more comfortable due to micronized water droplets. This formula offers lightweight coverage, while it evens out the complexion and helps it appear more radiant and transparent.

With daily use, the skin texture improves for a long-lasting natural glow.

*Clinically proven to improve skin quality +27% after 4 weeks (Clinical study carried out by a dermatologist on 30 women: assessment before application and on bare skin after 4 weeks of daily use)

Dior currently has a selection six liquid foundations (including the airbrush spray foundation), with Diorskin Nude (Fluid) being the most popular.

I've been bored with my foundations lately, and Diorskin Nude peaked my interest as I noticed that it - or was, a favorite among many beauty bloggers. So, I decided to pick it up during Sephora's VIB sale.

The numbering system with this foundation is as follows:

yellow undertones = ends in 1

pink undertones = ends in 2

neutral undertones = ends in 0

peach undertones = ends in 3

Knowing that, helped me figure out my foundation shade a little easier. I know that I need a yellow based foundation, so my choices were 021, 031 or 051. So there's basically a light skin match, medium and dark with not much in between - for yellow undertones, that is. The lightest yellow shade (021) actually isn't that light. I'd say it's around a NC20 in the MAC coloring system, not far from a NC25.

CONTINUE READING!

So, I chose 021, and it's a really good match for me right now. I haven't used self tanner in a few months, so it's actually slightly dark - since I'm probably only around a MAC NC15 right now, but it looks good once I blend the color down my neck.

Here's a quick swatch and comparison to another foundation in the same coloring range (with less yellow). Diorskin Nude in 021 Linen is swatched on the left and Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua B20 Tendre on the right in both photos.

I've applied this foundation a few different ways. I've used my fingers, a flat-top brush, as well as a standard foundation brush, and I like all methods. On most days I'll use my flat top foundation brush because it applies my makeup in the shortest time, but I like using my fingers as well - especially on areas where I'd like to build the coverage. I've also read that it works wonderfully applied with a damp beautyblender sponge (or similar)

The coverage is light to a light-medium. It evens out my skintone and calms down any redness, as well as lightly camouflaging my blemishes. It doesn't conceal them 100%, so a spot concealer would be handy. It takes around a minute or so to set, and it's then when I really notice how great it makes my skin look. The result is so natural, that it just looks like very healthy, good skin that glows. The finish is a satin - not quite matte, but not dewy. I rarely have to set with a powder, or moisturize prior. I can apply it quickly, and literally be out the door.

I have to say it holds up incredibly well throughout the day. It will fade slightly on the tip of my nose, but I barely ever get oily - which is a really wonderful thing to say about a foundation that I don't need to set with a powder. It also feels light on my face all day.

The foundation blended on the back of my hand.

PROS: Lightweight, has a natural finish, adds luminosity to the skin, doesn't make my skin oily or dry it out, wears well throughout the day.
CONS: The color selection is good, but could be better. I would have liked a shade lighter, but there was no other option for my coloring unless I chose a neutral foundation (which usually makes me look gray). Also, because the foundation is so light and layers incredibly well (it will never look cakey), I end up using more product at once than I'd really like - so, I'm sure with daily use I'd be done with the bottle in a shorter time than I would with some of my heavier foundations.
PACKAGING: I love the packaging, and the pump works very well at dispensing however much product you need at once. Glass bottles are always a bit heavy, so it may weigh down your bag a little bit, but it is nevertheless a pretty bottle.  
OVERALL: I really like this foundation and would recommend it to those with relatively good/decent skin that would like to even out their complexion and cover up minor blemishes and discoloration. For those who need a medium to full coverage, you may want to skip this. I think it's beneficial for all skin types, from dry to oily skin. For those with very dry skin, I'd recommend applying the foundation with a damp sponge or brush, as this foundation dries fairly quick upon application. It's a great foundation for daily use, and because of it's beautiful, skin-like finish, it would make a great foundation for events, holidays and shoots. It has an SPF of 10, so for the daytime, an extra SPF may be necessary for added sun protection. The plus side with a low SPF is that it will photograph well without a white glare.


You can find this foundation at your local Sephora or Department store. It retails for $46 per 1 oz.


Have you used this foundation? What'd you think?

Review: Shoemint Pauline Booties in Black!

Shoemint Pauline (Black)

Elevate your Fall/Winter wardrobe with our leg-lengthening suede platform bootie. Named after Nicole's (Nicole Chavez, stylist for Shoemint) grandmother, Pauline, the gold corset detail and matching cord offer a vintage touch to this avant-garde, sculpted silhouette.

* Available in wine, or black kid suede
* 2" platform and 6" wedge heel
* Side zip
* Lace detailing with gold hardware on the back
* Available in sizes 5-11 (the sizing runs small; � recommended to order a half size up)
* $79.98 (1 credit on Shoemint)

CONTINUE READING FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS & INFO!

From the start, I was really excited about Shoemint. Yes, the price may not be affordable for everyone, but I know the Mint companies offer discount codes and "specials" very often. Even though Shoemint is a membership site, it is commitment free because you won't get charged if you choose to "skip" the month. What that simply means is, for whatever reason if you don't want your account charged the $79.98 monthly fee, you can click the button "skip" in your option bar and they will skip charging you for the month. Even after skipping, you can still make a purchase. It doesn't change a thing. You can make your first purchase and skip every month thereafter, or cancel your account at any time.

Personally, I probably wouldn't have signed up for Shoemint if you couldn't skip, and I'm sure many others would be the same way. Luckily I snagged an awesome code during their initial launch. (Refer 40+ friends and pay $1 for your first pair, Refer 10+ friends and get $40 off your first pair, Refer 2+ friends and get $25 off your first pair.)

Onto the actual shoes. I really wanted the Edith (blush) and still do, but I chose the pair that I figured I could get the most use out of - The Pauline Booties in black.

I was also concerned with the sizing, because I have pretty difficult feet. I have wide feet and long toes (can't get any sexier than that) so when I saw that the shoes run small, I was a little nervous about picking the correct size. I am a very true 8.5. Very rarely an 8, never a 9. So, I did what the instructions said, and ordered a half size up; a 9.

I have to say the fit is perfect. They are surprisingly comfortable and I didn't have trouble walking in them. I've read many reviews where some mentioned that walking in them is a little awkward, and that's mostly because of the small sole and high platform. The sole is around 2/3 shorter than it would be with a regular heel, so it's not as stable. If you're not use to walking in platforms, it may take a little practice. If you're a regular heel wearer, you won't have any problems.

I love them and I love the fact that they make me so tall! I'm only 5' 2.5" and I was eye level with George, who is 5' 11" when I was wearing these. I think I'll be pairing them with wide leg jeans to disguise the huge platform, so everyone could just think I'm naturally that tall ;) haha!

He wasn't too fond of the style, though. He thought they looked like elf shoes. How typical.

Lastly, the craftsmanship. Shoemint likes to put emphasis on "quality" for a more affordable price. I do agree that the quality is comparable to shoes priced at double. You can tell from handling them and putting them on that they aren't $20 or $30 shoes. I didn't have any flaws with mine, but I have read reviews where some found flaws (glue, scuffs, etc). In those instances, you'd be able to return them (free) for a new pair.

You can join Shoemint for free, and your membership will only start once you make your first purchase.

If you use the code: SHOE20, you can receive 20% off your first order. Also, be notified of new launches and discounts on their Facebook page. (no affiliation)

Check out Shoemint HERE

Jewelmint Pomander Pendant Review with Lots of Photos!

Jewelmint Pomander Pendant

I know I've featured a lot of Jewelmint this month, but I swear, this will be it for a while. Or, at least until January. I was looking at the Pomander Pendant for a while, and decided on getting it before it's gone. It's currently "almost sold out".

The Pomander Pendant features a 32" antique gold/brass coloured chain, holding a perforated sphere, that opens and closes with a magnetic clasp. The sphere is meant to hold a small piece of fragrant cotton, and when worn around your neck, you should be able to smell the scent as you go about your day.

Jewelmint says, "Don this piece with your signature scent and make a lasting impression whenever you leave a room."

I think it's an adorable design and idea, and a piece that can be very sentimental to many. You can put any scent that makes you happy; your favorite perfume, your significant others cologne, a fragrance that reminds you of a parent or loved one, etc. You can even "test" out a fragrance you've been eyeballing, by spraying a little bit on a piece of cotton at your local dept. store.

I love the fact that every once in a while when I'm going about my day, I'll catch a whiff of the fragrance. I can't help but grab the pendant here and there to smell it.

An overall really cool piece to own.

NEW MEMBERS
50% OFF Your First Purchase
CODE: FASHION50

Check out Jewelmint HERE.

Shabby Apple Giveaway Winner!

Thank you all so very, very much for entering my recent Shabby Apple Giveaway!

A winner was picked using the List Randomizer and True Random Number Generator on Random.org. I usually always pick my giveaway winners through Random.org, as I find it's the easiest and every entrant has an equal chance.

Congrats, Emily! I will be e-mailing you shortly. 

*If a response isn't received within 48 hours, a new winner will be drawn.

Thank you again for participating, and for subscribing to my blog! I'd also like to thank Shabby Apple for sponsoring a second giveaway on my blog and for their kindness through the process! 

Hope you all have a wonderful Monday!

Jewelmint Lunar Blue Necklace Review!

Jewelmint Lunar Blue Necklace

Yep, you guessed it, more Jewelmint. Earlier this month I posted about the Easy Rider Necklace and the Silver Swan Bracelet. Both pieces I love to death, and when I realized that there are pieces made that won't be re-made, I quickly ordered the Lunar Blue Necklace. Lucky I did, because the following day it was sold out.

Actually, just about every item in my showroom is sold out, which I've never seen before! Maybe many people are purchasing Jewelmint for the holidays?

I'm so happy I did get the Lunar Blue Necklace, because it's probably my favorite item I own from Jewelmint.

The Lunar Blue Necklace features a 19" silver curb chain with a silver square pendant and a gold square accent atop. In the middle lies a sky blue, oval stone. From the bottom of the pendant, there is a row of small dangling chains. It's an unusual piece, but very pretty. The silver is oxidized, so it has more of a matte finish. It has a slight worn look to it, but still shines very nicely. The gold detail has a standard shiny finish, so the different finish and contrasting metals compliment each other very well. The pale blue "stone" isn't really a gemstone, but plastic. When it first launched, I know the fact that it was plastic was disappointing to some, but because I already knew, I wasn't disappointed. To me, this is a really stand-out necklace and looks very high-end.

The necklace and pendant have some weight to it, and feels like it's very good quality.

I was really pleased that the necklace has a chain extender. At the standard length, it hits me in the middle of my chestbone, and fully extended, the dangling chains sit right in between my chest. Both ways look very nice.

Overall, I'm very satisfied with this necklace and I'm so happy I got it when I did. I'm not sure if it will be re-released, as some items do come back, and some don't. This particular necklace has been around for a while, but if you're curious, it might be worthwhile to contact Jewelmint's Customer Service.

If you'd like to join Jewelmint, I found a few codes that should currently work. The best one I found for New Members is 55% off your first item, making the total $13.49 with free shipping.

NEW MEMBERS

55% OFF YOUR FIRST ITEM

CODE: RETAIL

I couldn't find anything good for existing customers. The only thing I found valid was 10% any one item, which is only $3 savings. The code for that is: WLYOURS10.

If you know of any other codes, please let me know in the comments!

Check out Jewelmint HERE.

Gold Bond Sheer Ribbons Silk Softness Body Lotion - A newfound love!

PRODUCT DETAILS:
Gold Bond's Silk Softness formula features 7 hydrating moisturizers that replenish your skin, while natural silk proteins enhance all-over smoothness. The result is irresistible, touchably soft skin.

Sheer Ribbons Silk Softness is a finely fragranced body lotion, scented with a blend of delicate mimosa petals, seductive tuscan cyprus and apricot reduction. 

I'm not positive when Gold Bond launched Sheer Ribbons, but as far as I know, it's one of their newer products. There are two different lotions in the Sheer Ribbons line, "Silk Softness" and "Pearl Radiance". They both contain the same 7 hydrating moisturizers, but the fragrances differ (Pearl Radiance contains citrus-nectarine, fresh rosewood and asian tea notes) and Pearl Radiance has a light-reflective pearl, so when applied, your skin will glisten.

My wonderful Aunt Grace gave me this lotion last week, as she loves it and thought it would be a great product to share with my readers!

What's pretty cool about the lotion is that it is dispensed from a can, like a shaving cream or mousse. When you press down on the pump, lotion will be dispensed in a ribbon-like shape. Product will continue to dispense for however long you are holding it down. I don't own another lotion like it! It's really convenient to have located next to your kitchen sink to keep your hands moisturized after washing dishes/cleaning, or next to your tub, after you shower. Just a quick pump - simple as that.

CONTINUE READING!

The lotion itself really is moisturizing. It's very creamy to the touch - a little reminiscent of Korres Body Butter. Although it may appear as if it has an airy, whipped mousse texture because of the way it's dispensed, it's actually a pretty dense cream.

It is so silky soft upon application and doesn't leave the hands feeling wet or greasy. It absorbs almost right away, but I'd say to give it around a minute or so to completely dry to avoid any slickness. 

I use it mostly on my hands, and wow, does it make them baby soft! I became a little curious and took a look at the ingredient list to see what these "7 hydrating moisturizers" are. There are several emollients, as well as Silk Amino Acids, Shea Butter and Jojoba Esters. I also noticed there are ingredients that are soothing to the skin, such as Aloe, Chamomile (Chamomilla Recutita) and Lavender. All three also aid in anti-inflammatory.

Another thing I noticed, was that there are several alcohols in the list, which can be irritating to some sensitive skin types. It also contains fragrance. (Full list below)

INGREDIENTS:

Water , Hydroxyethyl Urea , Glycerin , Dimethicone , Jojoba Esters , Petrolatum , Cetyl Alcohol , Distearyldimonium Chloride , Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice , Stearyl Alcohol , Cyclopentasiloxane , Cetearyl Alcohol , Methyl Gluceth-20 , Behentrimonium Methosulfate , Glyceryl Stearate , Silk Amino Acids , Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Rice Protein , Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract (Shea) , Ceramide 2 , Palmitoyl Oligopeptide , Lavandula Angustifolia Extract (Lavender) , Acacia Farnesiana Flower Extract , Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract (Matricaria) , Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract (Rosemary) , Tocopheryl Acetate , Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate , Retinyl Palmitate , Panthenol , C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate , PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol , Polysorbate 60 , Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters , Dimethiconol , Stearamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate , Steareth-21 , Diazolidinyl Urea , Methylparaben , Propylene Glycol , Fragrance , Propylparaben , EDTA , Isopropyl Myristate , Butylene Glycol , Tribehenin , Potassium Hydroxide.

The fragrance is soft and feminine - slightly powdery & floral, with a hint of mossy wood. (After smelling my brains out, I really can't put my finger on it.) Some may like it, some may not. I don't mind it, but it's not something I'd purchase for the scent alone.

I rarely ever post about lotions, but this one really deserved a mention. The convenience, ease of use and the way it makes my hands feel.. I wish you could feel them right now!! I am officially addicted. At some point I think I'll try the Pearl Radiance, as I love lotions that contain a pearl/faint shimmer. They look great on the neck and chest, to make the collar bones glisten.

It's expensive at around $10 for 7.1 oz, but there is a coupon on the Sheer Ribbons website for $1/off. Anything helps, right? Click here to print the coupon.

What do you use to combat dry skin?
This winter my hands more than anything have been drier than I ever remember them being. When they are extra dry, I love slathering (yes, slathering) Aquaphor or Unrefined Shea Butter on my hands before bed, and sleeping with moisturizing gloves. Some others I love are St Ive's Oatmeal and Shea Butter Moisturizer, Jojoba Oil, Unrefined Coconut Oil, Dove Cream Oil and AmLactin.

Final day to enter my Shabby Apple Giveaway!

Hey Everyone!

It's the final day to enter my giveaway, sponsored by Shabby Apple, for their adorable Francine Skirt.

If it isn't your style, it would make a great gift! Please enter!

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Covergirl Hot Passion Lip Perfection Lipstick Review, Photos and Swatches!

Covergirl Hot Passion Lipstick

Do you have a lipstick, or any item of makeup that once applied, you instantly feel sexy? That's how I feel when I apply Covergirl Lip Perfection in #305 Hot Passion. I feel like popping some of my old cassettes in the tape player and gettin' my jam on. Rockell, perhaps?

(Rockell - In a Dream)

Haha! But, really, there is something about red that makes a women look and feel sexy.

Hot Passion is a true red that isn't 100% cool, or warm. It meets somewhere halfway. Upon application, I can tell right away that it looks cool with a blueish-pink undertone. But, when applied heavier, it starts to give off a little warmth. So, it's not entirely cool or warm. I actually attained this lipstick from my beautiful cousin, who is around the MAC NW15 coloring (with auburn hair, blue eyes & rosy cheeks), and she found it looking too warm/orange for her liking. I love it though, on my MAC NC20 coloring. Not to mention, it makes my lips look very full!

This is my first CG Lip Perfection Lipstick and I'm very impressed. It's one of the - if not the best lipstick formulas I've used from the drugstore. It's very creamy and opaque, with magnificent lasting power. After several hours, it's still there and leaves a nice reddened pink stain behind.

The swatch on the left, is the lipstick applied with one swipe. The swatch on the right, is the lipstick applied with three swipes. See how it seems warmer when opaque, but cool when sheer?

Have you tried any of the CG Lip Perfections?

Maya Water Organic White Tea Facial Mist

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 
MayaWater Organic White Tea Facial Mist consists of Norwegian thermal spa water along with organic white tea, which contains fabulous anti-oxidants for the skin, prevents and repairs sun damage, and also helps fight wrinkles and skin discoloration.

MayaWater Facial Mist is naturally pH neutral, odor-free, and suitable for all skin types. It's specially designed nozzle is made to produce the finest mist available which allows the skin to absorb the water immediately.

In addition, the Norwegian Spring used for MayaWater Facial Mist has been studied, tested and approved for use by hydrologists, owing to its extremely low mineral content and stable temperature throughout the year.

The fine spray allows the skin to absorb the water immediately, helping to nourish, cleanse and apply moisture on bare skin, or over your make up.

This product may sound familiar to you, as there are similar products on the market. For example, MAC Fix+ Spray ($20/100ml), which also contains green tea, cucumber and other refreshing vitamins & minerals and there is also Evian Mineral Water Spray ($11/148ml) which is purely mineral water propelled by nitogen, acting as a "refresher".

CONTINUE READING!


While Maya Water is a little bit on the pricey side ($29/150ml), it really is a great product that I enjoy using.

INGREDIENTS:

Aqua 150g, Nitrogen 5g, Organic White Tea 0,3g

Active Ingredients mg/litre

Potassium 0.23, Calcium 8.6, Magnesium 0.78, Sodium 0.97, Sulphates 3.8, Chloride 0.33, Fluoride <0.1, pH 7.6, Aluminum <10.

Maya Water Facial Mist has become part of my daily routine because of it's convenience and the wonderful refreshing feeling it gives my face once applied.

I use it whenever my skin is dry, looks dull or needs refreshing. I often use it in the morning shortly after waking up, before I apply my day moisturizer. The extra fine mist doesn't shoot in your face like some sprays I've used, not being even distributed and leaving the face feeling damp; the mist is super fine, distributes across the face well without applying too much. Right away, my skin feels cool and re-freshed, the same way my face would feel after washing my face, but with a longer cooling feeling that will linger a while after. Also, it doesn't "sit" on my face. It absorbs quickly.

When I'm applying my makeup on the go, this stuff is great. Instead of using a moisturizer, I will spray this on my face, apply my foundation & setting powder, and once I'm done, give my face another quick spray. It doesn't disturb my makeup, and it will calm down any dullness created by my powder.

I also like to use it mid-day when touching up my make-up, especially if I've been running errands for hours and my face feels "icky". It gives me a quick boost and my face will feel great again.

Although I really do love MAC Fix+, I reach for Maya much more because Fix+ has a heavier mist that I fear will shoot me in the eye every time I use it. Haha! It also feels slightly heavier on the skin.

If you've heard of Maya Facial Mist prior and have debated whether to purchase it or not, I think it's a product you'll be happily satisfied with.

For a list of web-shops, click here.

If you've tried other similar products, I'd love to hear about them in the comments!

Yagolicious Bonita Lipstick in the shades Blue Rose & Matador Red.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 

Flaunt your Bonita lips in rich color formulated with Vitamin E.Our exclusive formula smoothes out fine lines and creases in living color. Bonita Lipstick is one of Yagolicious Cosmetics best selling lipstick and one of the top sellers for Yagolicious Cosmetics.

I've been on a bright lipstick kick lately and can't seem to get enough of them. Granted, I don't own many, but I have my eyes on several; MAC Impassioned - yes, I'm the only person in the world that doesn't own it, Illamasqua Frenzy, Petulant & Indulge Intense lip glosses, Every obnoxious colored OCC Lip Tar, to name a few.

So, these Yagolicious Lipsticks were right up my alley with their intense color, in the shades Blue Rose and Matador Red. In fact, they are actually Yagolicious' best sellers.

Matador Red is a very vibrant, creme formula, cool toned blue. It's the truest red I've ever found that doesn't lean yellow-orange, too pink or blue. Application is dreamy with this lipstick, as the formula is very soft and melts across the lips upon application. The color is completely opaque in a couple swipes. It feels moisturizing on the lips and is long lasting.

Blue Rose is a vibrant fuchsia with a soft, purple sheen. It's a little warmer than Milani Rosehip or Wet n Wild Nouveau Pink, as it has a slight rose/berry undertone. From swatches I've seen, I want to say it reminds me a little bit of MAC Show Orchid; Although I don't own it to do a side-by-side comparison. Blue Roses is  less creamy than Matador Red, but feels very smooth on the lips. The texture & application reminds me a lot of Revlon's Colorburst Lipsticks, if you're familiar with those. The color is opaque, and will last several hours with very minimal fading.

Yagolicious Bonita Lipstick in Blue Rose and Matador Red

Hand and Lip swatches of Blue Rose and Matador Red

I recommend using a lip brush when applying these colors because they are vibrant and very opaque, an uneven application will be a little more noticeable.

These lipsticks retail for $13.95 on the Yagolicious website.



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Guest Post: Winter Hair Care And Styling Tips!

(Credit)

The cold winter weather can do some major damage to your hair and chances are that without realizing it you are creating even more damage without realizing it. Then the winter moves on and your hair continues getting worse and so a vicious cycle begins. His doesn't have to be the case however. You can beat the winter blues and have beautiful healthy hair all year round. Here are some tips on how to go about it.

Turn Down The Heat

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Heat is your worst enemy when it�s cold out because it instantly dries out your locks and strips them of moisture. Although it�s okay to use a blow dryer or flat iron once or maybe twice a week, refrain from using it more often. When you do use appliances try to keep them a few inches away from your hair so that the heat is not directly applied to it. You can also get some added protection by using a product such as Redken�s Satinwear 02 Ultimate Blow Dry Lotion which works to keep your locks safe during the drying process.

Moisturize Your Mane

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Use a nourishing conditioner to make your strands silky soft and shiny every time you wash them. Then give it a real boost by giving yourself a deep conditioning treatment once a week. However all of this work will be meaningless if you don�t take vitamins A, B complex and E that will nourish, hydrate and moisturize your locks from the inside out.

Be Gentle

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Brushing your hair while it�s wet and rubbing it dry are surefire ways to get your strands to fall out and to become frizzy. Instead pat your hair dry before allowing it to air dry and once it�s done run a comb through it.

Know Your Products

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Keratin treatments, perms and dyes can make your life easier for now but in the long run they will cause problems. These treatments can dry out, weaken and even change the texture of your hair and should be stayed away from. If it�s essential for you to dye your mane try a natural dye or henna. To get rid of frizz try a natural oil such as argan oil. This way, you�ll see results and add fewer chemicals to your beauty routine.

All of this is well and good but what about styling? What can you do to look your best if you should blow dry more than once a week? Here are a few ideas:

• Pull your hair into a braided ponytail or a bun. Either of these styles will look good on any shape face and can be worn by women of all ages.
• Throw some gel into your hair, pin in some rollers and wear it wavy. Think Real Housewives of Orange County.
• Sleek it back into a French bun. This is a great look that can go from day to evening and add a touch of sophistication to any ensemble.

Following these tips should get you on your way to having a healthier head of hair in no time. If your locks are already fried, try getting a cut and starting out new. Stay warm this winter and stay beautiful!