Revlon Matte Balm's

So for any of you who are familiar with my blog, you're probably aware of my obsession with Revlon lip products. I love their lipstick, liquid lipstick, and balm stains. When I heard that they were coming out with a line of matte balms, I could not WAIT to get my hands on some.

These were incredibly difficult to find, as most of my local stores either didn't carry them yet, were sold out, or had tampered products. The wrapping on these were less secure then revlon's balm stains...so this is probably the reason for the wasted products. My CVS did have a fully stocked selection, however they were charging about $12 each! Being that I saw Target and Harmon's selling these balms for $7, I decided to wait.

Well I finally got three shades...standout, sultry, and shameless. Let me tell you I am NOT disappointed. While these are described as balms, there is no mention of the word "stain" or "long lasting", unlike their counterparts. With that being said, I find that they have pretty great staying power, and last just as well, if not better, then the typical lipstick.

Above is a photo of the shades I purchased, alongside swatches. The first is Standout, a beautiful blue-toned red that is perfect for probably any complexion. It's beautiful for winter months and makes teeth appear whiter because of its cool undertones. Next is sultry, a pretty color I could best describe as dusty-rose. It is a nice every-day bold lip. Last is shameless, a crazy Barney-like purple color. I love this and I love how true to packaging the product shows up, but I struggle finding occasions where this color is appropriate.  Don't mind my pale skin, I'm in desperate need of a tan.

Overall, I think these are great, they have good lasting power, good color pay-off, a wonderful matte finish without being drying, and are incredibly affordable. These have a slight minty smell, same as the balm stains, and the color selection is beautiful! I can't wait to get my hands on more

just for fun, heres a picture of myself wearing "shameless"

December 2013 Favorites

Okay so with the year coming to an end I figure I should post up some favorites! These are products I found myself using at the end of 2013 rather frequently, and products I anticipate using into 2014 as well!

So to start off, I have been LOVING my Bahama Mama Bronzer by The Balm. I love ALL things made by The Balm and this bronzer is no exception. It is a somewhat deep made bronzer that is absolutely perfect for contouring. I think the thing I love most about it is that it is in no way orange. It is a nice brown, so I don't feel like an oompa loompa when I use it. While my primary use for the product is contouring, a light dusting is perfect for an all over subtle bronze. This stuff is incredibly pigmented so a little goes a long way. At $20 this stuff isn't the cheapest, but it is certainly not as expensive as some competitors such as Nars Laguna costing $36. I purchased mine from amazon but you can find it on thebalm's website as well!

Next is an amazing mascara.... Too Faced Better than Sex! This stuff has a strange wand but I find it gives my lashes both incredible volume AND length. I prefer mascaras with wands that aren't rubber. I feel they just don't compare when it comes to volume. This stuff is great and it looks even greater when applied alongside fake lashes (as I did for new years). This product can be bought at sephora and costs $23

My favorite eyeshadows have been the matte colors from my Naked 2 palette, if we're getting specific. I find myself using the shades Foxy, Tease, and Blackout on a pretty regular basis. I love the entire palette but lately I've been focusing in on these shades because I am loving matte shadows. The look these colors give is incredible! As we all know the palette is $52 but it has so many usable colors that its worth it!

My favorite eyeliner lately has been the Eyeko skinny liquid liner in black. It can be purchased at sephora and costs $16. It has a great tip that can create an incredibly precise line and it is jet black. I have no complaints its just the perfect for wing tip and all things liquid liner related. Here is a picture of the tip and one of me with the liner on...

Alright so last is a fragrance. I have been loving the Betsey Johnson by Betsey Johnson perfume and it is beautiful. It is somewhat masculine and fruity at the same time. I can't even put it into words it is amazing and the bottle is beautiful too. I use it pretty regularly and I got a 3.2 ounce bottle at Marshalls for like $20 so you can't even go wrong. I highly recommend this scent to anyone who likes fruity deep scents!

Quarter Life Crisis

Soooo things have been a little nutty lately. The semester is coming to an end rather rapidly, and it is becoming more and more clear each day that I will be graduating in just a few short months. My whole life I've had a plan. Finish third grade...go to fourth....fifth...so on. Even senior year of highschool, I may have had no idea what school I'd be at...but I knew I'd be in college. But here I am four years later, just a little while away from having a Bachelors degree in Counseling and Human Services...and I have no idea where my life is going to take me.

I've been applying to service organizations, volunteer corps, and I'm even going to apply to a few graduate schools...but at the end of the day I don't know what I want. I mean if money weren't a factor, I would go right to graduate school and get a masters degree in School Counseling. I want to be a guidance counselor. I love my internship and I could see myself working in a school setting. But I do not want to pay all that money for graduate school. So I'm trying to find ways around it like working for an organization that would help pay or I don't know....anything really.

So I've been in a bit of a funk. I've been feeling old and unsubstantial and like my life is going no where. What can you do with a bachelors degree in Counseling? Not too much let me tell ya. But I love it. I don't regret pursuing the field because it is genuinely what I am good at and what I want to do with my life. I also want to be rich so I can buy makeup all day every day...go figure.

It doesn't help that my boyfriend-type-figure is in the same sort of place. He's going to be going to law school next year but he has no idea where. Neither of us knowing what state we will be living in adds a double dose of stress and ain't nooooobody got time for that. He's brilliant and he's gonna get into a great school I'm sure of it...but lord help me if he follows in the footsteps of Elle Woods and goes all the way to Boston to attend Harvard Law.

Seriously though if he gets into Harvard I will be so happy and supportive. We'll see though, stuff is still very much up in the air. Which gives me stress. When I get stressed I buy makeup.

Luckily for my very empty wallet, I went to a CVS that carries Wet N Wild makeup. My CVS at home doesn't, so its a treat to see the display at the one here in Scranton. I bought two lipsticks and I'm slightly in love. One of them I haven't worn yet but I've been eyeing it for a while. its 908C, and everyone says it looks like Mac Rebel. We shall see!

The one I have used and love is actually from the Wet N Wild Fergie Collection. It is called V.I.Pink. it is one of the creme lipsticks, the packaging is so cheap and tacky but sometimes we all need a little cheap and tacky in our lives. Plus when it comes down to it...I bought it for the lipstick not the packaging. I'm just such a sucker. Like I am willing to spend extra money on mac lipsticks because the packaging is so chic and I feel so glam putting it on. I understand how stupid this is, but I'm just so flawed. I've heard amazing things about the Wet N Wild lipsticks though so I figured I would give them a try.

Oh. My. Lord. this lipstick is beautiful. I was drawn to it because of its slight blue undertone. I work well with cooler shades. V.I.Pink is a pretty, medium pink. It isn't as bright and barbie as some other lipsticks I've purchased in the past. It is also not so light that it gives lips a weird flushed look. In my opinion its perfect. I still feel like I can get away with a bit of a dramatic eye, but its also bold enough for a simple winged liner look. I applied it with a brush, just because I prefer applying most lipsticks with brushes. I feel it gives for more precise lines and there is more control on the amount of product being applied.

I think this lipstick costs me around $3. Compared to the $15 for a mac product, I'd say this is a good deal. The lipstick stayed on very well even after some drinking. The color is rich and pretty pigmented. It goes on creamy and doesn't dry out the lips. Over all I really have no complaints. Could the packing be nicer? of course. But is this enough to keep me from buy a great product? ehhh not so much.

Here's a photo from last night of me wearing the lippy. Have you tried it? Or others? let me know what you think!

The higher the lashes the closer to God

My eyes are my thing. While I wear crazy nutty lipstick a lot I really do like to focus my makeup around my eyes on a regular day. My mom has piercing blue eyes, my dad had brown eyes, and for some reason me and all my sisters ended up with my moms eyes.

One of my friends calls them my blue gems.

So I like to make sure they pop when doing my makeup. There are a lot of tricks to doing this, ranging from using a highlight in the corner of the eye, lining the waterline with white liner, the shape of the shadow and the colors you choose...but one of my favorite tricks is making my lashes look long and luscious.

There are a few mascaras that accomplish this, but when looking for really bold lashes...falsies are fabulous too.

I'll start with my favorite mascaras.

First we have the Benefit They're Real. I know this is a cult favorite and everyone is obsessed with it, so its probably no surprise on my list. My favorite attribute of this mascara is how it lengthens and separates the lashes. They don't look clumped together, and although I sometimes like for mascaras that give off more volume, this one really is great especially for the first coat of mascara. The brush is plastic/rubber and it has little bristles coming out from the top which makes it easy to reach the harder to access spots. It is not waterproof, so make sure you're not planning to get emotional while wearing it. Overall it is truly a great product though and I'd even venture to say its worth the money. Cost: $23

Next, for those of you on a budget, is the E.L.F 3-in-1 mascara. This stuff is pretty comparable to the benefit They're Real and at a fraction of the cost! It will set you back only $3 ($20 less then benefits) and it has the same separating effect in my opinion. The brush is really cool, its sort of strangely shaped but again, this allows for easier access to hard to reach spots. I use this one as a first coat and then typically apply a coat of my all time favorite...

Mally volumizing mascara! Let me tell you this stuff adds volume! At $20, this stuff isn't cheap but it really is worth it. It makes my lashes thick without clumping and of the three I've mentioned, I'd say it gives the best "falsies" affect. I naturally have pretty thick/long/dark lashes but I love using mascara to curl and add the extra kick. This stuff curls and holds for a majority of the day. If I had to recommend any product it would be this one! So go buy it today you will thank my I promise!

When really looking to spice it up and look extra special, I suggest using false lashes. My favorite (and also cheap) brand is Ardell. You can pick them up at your local CVS or drug store. There is a large variety of styles so I'm sure you'll find some you like! Sometimes I even cut them in half and only apply them to the outer corner of my eyes. This gives a fantastic cat-eye effect. You can buy lashes pre-cut, but I prefer to do it myself to assure they are the exact length I like.

I hope this post was helpful! Let me know what you all think. Have you tried any of these? Do you agree with my reviews. Comment and let me know!

Why I'm obsessed with Birchbox

While the word "obsessed" is a term I seem to over use...I promise I am not throwing it out lightly in this scenario. I am not so slightly obsessed with Birchbox.

For those of you who don't know about Birchbox, it is a company that sends out 4-5 beauty related "samples" each month. I'm hesitant about using the word samples because in many cases I have been sent full sized products as well as sample sized products. While Birchbox has both male and female options, I am going to focus on the female boxes in this post. The female Birchbox costs $10 a month. This is comparable to some other monthly beauty box subscriptions currently out. It seems that Birchbox and Ipsy are the two most prevalent. Both are the same cost, do essentially the same thing, and are great pick me ups each month...so why is Birchbox my favorite?

I have a few reasons. The first and most important reason is Birchbox's points system. For every product you receive each month, you are given the opportunity to do a quick review on the website. This is as simple as filling in some bubbles. After completing these reviews, you are rewarded 10 points for each. This means that each month, you are accumulating approximately 50 points. So why does that matter? Well...for every 100 points you earn, you are given a $10 credit to the Birchbox shop. The Birchbox shop carries full sizes of all the samples you've received, and other great products. There are always way too many things that I want in the Birchbox shop so putting those points to use is never an issue. So since you're getting 50 points a month, you're technically only paying $5 per box. The other $5 is given back to you in credit to use in the shop. And while it isn't given back to you in cash, I'm pretty sure Birchbox points are just as good for any beauty junky like myself. You also get 100 points for EACH friend you refer to Birchbox. I've referred 3 people in my time with Birchbox...which means I've gotten another $30 to spend in their shop...just for telling people about my awesome experience!

Another reason I prefer Birchbox is the quality of the products I'm receiving. Ipsy gives plenty of full sized products, however they are more often then not low-quality, drugstore brand makeup. Don't get my wrong, I LOVE my Revlon, Cover Girl, etc. but in my opinion, the thing that makes Birchbox so great is that it opens my eyes to new and amazing products that I would have NEVER purchased on my own. With Ipsy, yes I may get a full sized NYX blush, but this is something that costs under $8 so I probably would have tried it on my own if it seemed appealing enough. Birchbox introduces me to hair oils that cost $30 a bottle, perfumes that cost $70 a bottle, mascara that costs $23....things that unless I knew for SURE how great it was, I would never spend the money on. Thats the whole point in sampling things isn't it? Not getting full sized products but being able to try new, quality products.

Now don't get me wrong, Birchbox still gives out full sized products every so often. I've been purchasing Birchbox's for almost a year and a half now but just off the top of my head I have received the following full sized products:
-Pixi Lid Last Shadow Pen- $18
-Model Co Lash Xtend Mascara- $24
-Model Co Party Proof Lipstick- $24
-Mally Mascara- $20
-Eyeko Skinny Liquid Liner- $16
-Incoco Nail Appliques- $9

I'm sure I'm forgetting stuff but thats a lot of full sized products...and that doesn't even mention the great sample sizes that were also included in the boxes. I've also received a TON of generously sized nailpolish samples. Many samples are deluxe sized, meaning they are more then just foil packets. DDF and Stila give out incredibly generous sample sizes for example.

Birchbox also has incredible costumer service. If there are any issues with a sample, or any questions/concerns they are prompt and efficient in responding. While they don't make mistakes often, on the rare occasion they have I have been helped quickly and have been given points or replacement samples. They are always kind and understanding as well. They have such quality costumer service!

I signed up for Birchbox excited for the makeup products, but I've found myself enjoying the hair and skin products most. I've used my points to purchase Beauty Protector hair spray which I can't live without now, DDF brightening cleanser, Orfluido hair oil, Shea Terra Black Soap, and more. These have all become such crucial staples in my beauty regime and I can't thank Birchbox enough for introducing me to such awesome products!

So if you are even slightly interested in hair, skin, makeup, and nails...sign up NOW. Birchbox gives you quality and will introduce you to great new products. And at the end of the day, it really only costs you $5 a month...so give up that Frap from Starbucks this week and treat yourself to something you'll get much more enjoyment out of. You wont be disappointed!

Here are a few pictures of past boxes I have received, just to give you an idea!

What are you waiting for?! Go sign up!

Fall is Upon Us!

Although the weather is still shakey, it is becoming more and more apparent that fall is upon us! To me, this means lots of scarves, boots, layers, and bold colors!

Don't get me wrong I wear bold makeup year round, however there are different colors and hues for different seasons. Fall is perfect for deep, rich colors and I could not be more excited.

I thought I'd share with you some of my favorite products for fall, and hopefully it'll inspire some awesome looks of your own!

Bold Lip:

The trend you will see me taking full advantage of in the fall is a bold lip. This may be my favorite thing about the change in season. One of my favorites is Urban Decay Confession. Now I believe this lipstick is no longer made, however it is still available through ebay which is actually where I got it a year or so ago. This color looks scary as all heck in the tube. It is a deep purple, almost black. However the color is very buildable. I use a lip brush and apply a light coating that way. By doing this a little product goes a very long way. I get compliments every time I wear it, and I think it is perfect for the colder months.

Heres a photo from last night of the product on. As you can see, it really does sheer out when you apply a light coating. I'm in love with this product I can't even put it into words.

Bold Nail:

Nothing is more appropriate in the fall then a deep nailpolish. Reds, purples, blues, you name it. All of these shades have deep, dark personalities that we can bring out in the fall. Some of my favorites are OPI Lincoln Park After Dark (An almost black purple shade), Essie Wicked ( A deep oxblood ), And OPI Suzi Skis in the pyrenees (A beautiful charcol). I highly recommend any of these for spicing up your look! Nothing finishes an outfit like a freshly painted set of nails!

Bold Scent:

Perfumes are another aspect of a beauty regime that change seasonally. For the fall I'd say my favorite scent is FlowerBomb by Viktor and Rolf. This scent is so dynamic. The level of florals and spices and just sheer perfection in this perfume is worth the hefty pricetag.

Baby I'm Back with some favorites

Oh lord its been a while since I posted. I don't even have a good excuse, I've just gotten so caught up with stuff. Anyway! I've accumulated a ton of new products since I last posted (of course) and I have acquired some new favorites!!


First I'm going to start with a couple new foundations that I love. I have used the same foundation for years, and when I say years I mean probably at least 5 years.  I've posted about it before, its the Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse. It has a pump for application, great coverage, and it doesn't make my skin break out. These are all great qualities in a foundation! But I've been mixing it up a bit through the past few months.

First, I splurged and purchased the Kat Von D Lock it tattoo foundation. This stuff is BOMB. It has the best coverage of any foundation I've every used, dries matte, and lasts all day. I know its incredibly costly at $34 per ounce (based off sephoras pricing) but it is worth it. I use it sparingly because I'm so in love with it and want it to last forever. I save it for days my skin is really uneven, I have bad breakouts, or for special occasions. This stuff also has a pump applicator and beautiful packaging. I highly recommend it if there is room in your budget!

A more wallet-friendly foundation I have discovered is the Cover Girl 3 in 1 Outlast Stay Fabulous Foundation. This stuff is great! It has good coverage...not quite as heavy as the Kat Von D foundation, but it is good for the days you need medium to heavy coverage! The coverage is also very layer-able. It also applies with a pump which again, I love (I'm so predictable, if a product has a pump I'm sold). I usually apply it with a Stippling brush for a flawless finish. I feel that while this product claims to work as a primer, concealer, and foundation...I still need a bit of concealer. Considering it is a drugstore brand though I am highly impressed and might even consider this a new favorite. It dries matte...what more could a girl ask for?

Another love of mine is the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in translucent. It is no secret by now that I prefer all things matte.  I love finishing my face routine with a sweep of a powder. I feel it really sets my foundation and concealer, allowing for the makeup to stay in place through the duration of the day and providing a flawless finish. This product only costs about $5 and it has become a staple in my makeup routine. 

I am a major fan of a bold lip. This is also pretty evident. Over the past few months I have been loving a few new lip products, some a bit on the pricey side, while others can be found in your local drug store! 

First is Mac Up the Amp. I always gravitate to lipsticks with cool undertones, especially purples. I feel they compliment my face the best and I just can't get enough. Up the amp is beautiful. It is creamy, not drying, but not super shiney either. Its the perfect finish. I can't get enough. At $15 its a bit on the pricey side but its nothing compared to a YSL or Chanel lipstick. Heres a picture of me in Up The Amp, and a picture of the product in tube.

Another great lipstick I've gotten into is the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick. I own a fullsized tube in Aria, and a sample in Beso which I received in my Birchbox. Aria is similar to up the amp, but a bit more of a berry color. The thing I love about these lipsticks is the staying power and the liquid application that dries completely matte. It looks FLAWLESS. It is important to be cautious when applying though, because once its dried into place, the little imperfections will become noticeable. Beso is a beautiful true-red. I love it for a statement red lip (come to think of it, I might wear it out to the bar tonight!). I can't say enough how great this stuff is!!

Last, I am currently LOVING the Loreal Wet Shine Stain in Stubborn Plum. OH MY GOD this stuff is great. I know I am usually not one to go for the glossy products, but I'm hooked on this stuff. I don't know if its the color that makes it so flattering, or if I am just coming around to glossier looks. The staying power of this stuff is amazing. It stays glossy for hours, and even after the gloss diminishes, the color stays true. I wear this stuff to my internship all the time and don't feel that I'm overdone. This product is similar to a YSL gloss stain which I have never tried but I know they have a cult following. I love it and I love the price even more! I want to say this stuff will run you around $8.

I hope this was a helpful post and I hope you stick around because I'll be posting more soon! Have you tried any of this stuff? Do you love it, hate it, agree with me, disagree, or have anything to add? Let me know!!