Today is my birthday (ahh!) and I thought I would share with you the birthday dinner makeup look I wore this weekend.
I kept everything pretty low key and went out to a delishhhh dinner – but ya know – any excuse to glam it up, i’ll take it!
I loveee this look. I think it is simple enough for really any occasion, but the red lips really bring some drama and fun. Follow me on my new Instagram page to get more day to day looks and product details – @little.miss.melis :).
We have made it halfway through the week! I don’t know about you guys but this week has been going by so slowlyyyyyy. So I thought to celebrate I would jump on here and give you a peak at my makeup geek shadow collection and let you know some of my all time favorite shades!
Makeup geek shadows are amazing! They are such a great value and are in all honesty probably my favorite eyeshadow formula. I also love that they come as single eyeshadows in just the pan because it makes them really mobile and perfect for travel. I have my large z-palette (as you’ll see) that I keep at home, but then I also have a smaller one that fits about 9 shadows that is perfect to take on the go!
Makeup Geek Eyeshadows
The shadows are $6 each, which compared to say a $10 MAC shadow is a great price for what I would say is a better formula. They also have literally EVERY shade you could think of – so what more could you want!
It has been a LONG time since I posted – things have gotten rather busy at work – but these lip kits have inspired me to get back to it.
I’ll be honest, I was a little skeptical on whether or not these would live up to the hype, but I have an obsession with liquid lipsticks, soooo I had to try them.
I know a lot of people think liquid lipsticks are extremely drying – so just as a disclaimer I don’t mind the drying aspect of liquid lipsticks in general. I am more of a if it stays on my lips for as long as possible I am all for it.
Now lets get down to the details. The lip kits come with both the lip liner and the liquid lipstick for $29, which ultimately is actually not a bad price compared to some other liquid lipsticks on the market (should we take a sip of wine every time I say liquid lipstick?).
Kylie Lip Kits (KoKo K, Candy K, Mary Jo K, Dolce K)
This past weekend I was looking at the Giorgio Armani “Eyes to Kill” shadows and really debating trying them – HOWEVER, I heard that the L’Oreal Infallible shadows were essentially dupes – so I thought I would give those a try first! I had also been hearing good things about Girlactik and wanted to take a look at the range. They sell Girlactik at some Rite Aid stores. While I was at Rite Aid I also picked up a couple other things – check it out below:
Moving along with the subscription boxes this month – today’s post is featuring BoxyCharm!
BoxyCharm is a little different than some of the other subscription boxes because it is $21. HOWEVER, you get 5 products that are typically ALL full sized (occasionally one will be a LARGE deluxe sample). I have never received a box that had under $100 worth of value within it which is just crazy!! This is hands down the best box for your money and provides some really great products. If you are thinking of subscribing to just one box, I think BoxyCharm is your best bet justt because of how incredible the value is. Sign Up HERE!
BoxyCharm August 2015
So, lets take a look at what the August 2015 BoxyCharm came with!
Next up for subscription week I thought we should talk about Ipsy. Similar to Birchbox, Ipsy is a $10 monthly subscription box that comes with 5 beauty samples (sometimes full sized items too!). Ipsy is also super cute because each month comes with a little reusable makeup pouch. The main difference that I have seen between the two is that Birchbox seems to be catered more toward “Beauty” overall – I get a lot more skincare & haircare products from them, whereas Ipsy is typically more makeup.
It is my favorite time of the month!! Subscription week :).
This week I have lots to share but thought I would start out with my August 2015 Birchbox. For those of you who don’t know, Birchbox is a $10 monthly subscription box that sends you 5 beauty samples – anything from skincare to lifestyle samples. Sign Up Here!
August 2015 Birchbox
This month I opted to get the Candidly Nicole Guest Editor Box and was SO Excited for the goodies!
Last weekend I went to my first VIB Rouge event! I was super excited for the goody bags and the 4x point perk didn’t hurt either! I took my Mom as my plus 1 and we ended up getting some great stuff so I thought I would share :).
Damage Done
We ended up buying a selection of things – some for myself, some for my mom, and some for my sister. As you can see we had fun!
The Entire Haul ❤
Here are some of the things I got:
My Haul – Mainly Skincare
I ended up gravitating to the skin care products as my face has been sorta freaking out the past couple months. The BEST thing we found was a build your own sample pack. You could choose any 5 samples within a certain section for $25 and they came with a super cute little bag (as you’ll see in my mom’s section of the haul). The things I personally picked out were the four items in the back left –
Algenist – Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser: I have the full size of this product and LOVE it. I first saw it on KathleenLights Youtube channel and thought it sounded interesting, so naturally I went to buy it. It starts out as a gel formula and then as you put it on your dry face it turns into an oil. When you go to wash it off it turns into almost a milk and washes off literally all your makeup. I was super excited when I saw this sample because first of all it is HUGE and second of all it is perfect to travel with so I don’t have to take my full size.
First Aid Beauty – Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay: I am a big fan of clay cleansers because I think they do a really great job of cleaning out my pores. I saw this and decided it would be a fun one to try and again, I love samples for traveling. I think it is fun to do a couple little mini spa nights while on vacation.
Dr Dennis Gross – Alpha Beta Peel (Original Formula): These were actually not in the 5 for $25 section – I ended up grabbing them while in the checkout line (gets me everytime!!) BUT, the more advance version of these were – which is incredible to me because I think these “samples” retail for around $16! I am still just in shock at the great value we got with all these samples. If you have a local Sephora I highly recommend going to take advantage of this deal! ** I just checked and they have this deal online too! FYI 🙂
Ren – Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask: I haven’t tried this product yet, but as you can see I am all about the masks right now and really anything that says radiance sounds good to me! I am excited to try it out as it has some really good reviews online!
GlamGlow – SuperMud Clearing Treatment: This was my main purchase of the day and really the only thing I planned on splurging on. It is nott cheap but in my opinion worth every penny. I got a sample of this when I bought the SuperCleanse Daily Clearing Cleanser and while I do love the cleanser this mask is unreal. It is easily the best mask I have ever used. EVER. I have combo to dry skin and the pores around my nose / T – zone can get oily and are bigger than I would like. I used this and when I looked in the mirror afterward I couldn’t see a single pore. It was unlike any mask I’ve ever used. The next day I woke up and my skin was clean, tight and radiant.
First Aid Beauty – Facial Radiance Pads: These were just an extra sample the woman threw in for us as we were paying – but I can’t wait to try them. I am a big fan of makeup wipes / pre moistened pads just because they are so easy to use.
Sephora Masks – Rose Face Mask & Honey Eye Mask: I love these little masks from Sephora – they are super inexpensive and I think they are great for a more frequent treatment. I have used a number of them and find them to be really great on my skin. I love the variety of types that they have.
Kat Von D – Studded Kiss Lipstick in Lovecraft: This was actually one of the point rewards that was available – We ended up getting three (one for everyone!) because of what an incredible shade it is. It is a great mauve shade that can be super versatile. As one of the Sephora workers told us – you can make it lighter/fresher by pairing it with a pink liner or deepen it up with a darker nude / brown liner.
My Mom/ Sister’s Haul
My mom went for the 5 for $25 samples as well and opted for the same Algenist Cleanser, Ren Mask, and Dr Dennis Gross Peel.
In addition she got:
Dr Jart+ – Water-Full Hydrogel Mask: This is a super hydrating face mask. It is supposed to increase the hydration, elasticity and bounce to skin. It also has some anti-aging properties!
Murad – AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser: My Mom opted for two of these because she loves the Murad brand. She was looking for some more good exfoliants and this is great because it has the acid exfoliant in addition to jojoba skin-polishing beads.
Lancome – Grandiose Wide-Angle Mascara: I think this mascara is super cool. Not only is the packaging gorgeous but the wand is super unique (go check it out!). It has a swan neck type bend in it which makes it super easy to apply. It is a clump free, lengthening mascara and is long wearing without being waterproof (so its easy to take off at night).
Deborah Lippmann – Cuticle Oil: I just used this last night as I was prepping my nails for a little at home manicure. This oil is great! It has the most amazing coconut smell that is so yummy. The thing I love most about it is that it drys quickly and yet is super hydrating.
Smashbox – Camera Ready BB Cream: This was my sister’s purchase and she has been loving this BB Cream. It is a repurchase for her so that goes to show that it is a great product. I have used hers a couple of times and the amount of coverage is great. I would say it is a medium coverage that feels really light and gentle on the skin. It also has SPF 35 so is great for summertime!
VIB Rouge Goody Bag
Sorry this post is so long! But I just wanted to lastly and certainly not least-ly show you the goody bag we got! It came with the following products:
BareMinerals – Moxie Lipgloss
Boscia – Detoxifying Black Cleanser
Benefit – Porefessional
L’Occitane – Hand Cream
Formula X – Nail Polish
Chloe – Perfume
Korres – Wild Rose & Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial
All in all we def. got our moneys worth when looking at the Rouge goody bag and the amazing 5 for $25 offer. I highly recommend checking it out in store or online – make sure you use Ebates if you’re shopping online to get cash back and an even better deal!
Today I wanted to go through some swatches of my fave lipstick of all time – the Nars Audacious Lipstick. I know these are hyped up everywhere but let me tell you, they are worth the hype and worth every penny. TRUST ME. If I were to recommend any one single lipstick this would be it – I personally would save my money and instead of buying two MAC lipsticks invest in one of these.
They are insanely pigmented, super creamy, and wear incredibly. I have a real problem with lipsticks fading on me and kinda beading up on my lips throughout the day. I also am awful at re-applying, so halfway through the day I tend to just look a little crazy. THESE saved my life, they sort of stain your lips so as you wear them throughout the day they never get splotchy or uneven. I highly recommend trying one.
Nars Audacious Lipsticks
Here are some close ups of the shades I own (please excuse my grown out gel polish!):
Raquel:
Raquel
Raquel is the most true nude shade that I own. I think it is such a pretty color, but may not work as well with darker skin tones – it may end up coming off a little “dead body” looking. I find that if I put a little pink liner as a base it is the perfect pinky beige for everyday wear.
Anita:
Anita
Anita is my personal fave. It is a great dusty rose color that is one of those “your lips but better” type shades. I love how this wears and how it looks with any makeup look I may have on. I actually just purchased this one for a second time – that’s how much I love it.
Anna:
Anna
Anna is described as a smokey rose – but the best way I can describe it is a purpley mauve. This is very Kylie Jenner-esk and is such a pretty color for everyday in the fall/winter time. Again the way that these wear on your lips is so amazing. I can put this on in the morning and at 5pm my lips still have even color, without reapplying once.
Brigitte:
Brigitte
Brigitte is a great nude rose. I think if I were going to recommend one it would be this one because of how versatile it is. It would look great on any skin tone because it is just that perfect everyday deeper pink. (This one is my Mom’s personal fave).
Juliette:
Juliette
I bought Juliette for the spring and summer time because I have been obsessed with pinky – coral shades. I think this one is great because it is not super orangey. It has the perfect balance for everyday wear – yet you can play it up and make it more fun depending on the other makeup you pair it with. I think this is prob my second fave color!
Catherine:
Catherine
I got Catherine online before seeing it in person – so it is a little more orangey than I would typically go for. I had envisioned more of a Juliette when buying this one; however, the color is still really pretty and great for summertime. It is described as a sunny guava, but I would say it leans more orange than that. It is a little more of a true coral color as you can see in the swatches below.
Here are some swatches of the shades that I have! The first photo was taken in the shade and shows more of the true color of each lipstick. The second photo was taken in the sun and you can really see how creamy and pigmented they are.
Nars Audacious Lipsticks
Just FYI – I ran each lipstick down my arm ONE time – that just tells you how crazy pigmented these are.
Nars Audacious Lipsticks
I hope you guys liked this post! Let me know your fave shades or ones you are dying to try! I know I personally also really want to try Lana (a vivid orange red).
I can’t believe July is already over! Here are some of the products I have been LOVING this month. With the heat I have been sticking to minimal makeup while going for that dewy, glowy look.
July 2015 Favorites
July 2015 Favorites – As pictured above (Left to Right, Top to Bottom)
Stila – Aqua Glow Watercolor Blush – Water Lily:
I got the shade water lily which is the perfect peachy pink sheer wash of color. I was a little scared at first as I am not used to liquid / gel blushes but this blends out super easily and provides the perfect amount of color.
Stila – Water Lily (blended out)
Too Faced – HangoverRx Replenishing Face Primer:
This primer is my holy grail. I have dry skin and this works perfectly. It makes my face feel hydrated and keeps my makeup on all day. I will be repurchasing this over and over and over.
Chanel – Soleil Tan de Chanel:
I think this bronzer is perfect for summer. It is extremely warm and gives my face the perfect hint of JLo. I apply it with a large stipple brush in the places I would normally contour and it instantly warms my face up. I love throwing this over minimal makeup to give my face dimension. I also love that a little product goes a long way which is a plus given how pricey it is.
This Limited Edition highlight has been my favorite! I love applying a little bit of this on the high points of my cheeks. It is the perfect champagne highlight that can be used for a natural glow or an intense disco ball look.
Champagne Pop – on the top
Cover Fx Custom Cover Drops – N30:
I love these drops. I have been using them a lot with different moisturizers and even adding them into bb creams – like with my other favorite the Maybelline Dream Pure BB. They are essentially drops of pure pigment which is perfect for adding a hint more coverage to anything!
Maybelline – Fit Me Concealer – Light (10) and Medium (25):
I have been loving these concealers as a way to brighten my under eyes (w/ light) or cover any blemishes / trouble spots (w/ medium). It is so lightweight and blends out really smoothly. I think it is a great everyday concealer that provides a good amount of coverage without looking cakey or settling into any fine lines.
Maybelline – Dream Pure BB – Light/Medium:
I think this BB is great. I was actually really surprised with the amount of coverage it provides. It is really smooth and lightweight on the skin but evens out my skintone really well. I also love that it has 2% Salicylic Acid – so on days where I feel like my skin needs a day off or some acne help this is my go to.
Clinique – Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer + Rouge Intense + Base – Nude Pop:
I think this color is perfect for a “no makeup makeup look.” It is moisturizing and feels almost like a chapstick when applied. It has a lot of pigmentation and is the perfect everyday nude pink color.
Clinique Pop – Nude Pop
Loreal – Telescopic Mascara – Carbon Black:
This mascara is one of my new favorites. I know i’ve raved about it before, but it really is the only mascara that keeps my lashes curled all day. My only con to this is that it is more lengthening than volumizing. If I could mix the Too Faced – Better than Sex formula with this one it would be my perfect mascara ever!
ColourPop – Super Shock Shadow – Lovely:
This shade is soooo pretty. It is a metallic soft gold shade that really brings light to your eyes. The colourpop formula is so unique and one of my favorites for shimmery shades. The mousey texture allows the shimmer to really pop on your eyes and I find that they stay all day. I love pairing this with a darker color in the crease or outer v. You can intensify it for a dramatic night look or even just put it all over the lid during the day.
ColourPop – Lovely
That’s all for my monthly favorites this time around! Let me know what your favorites have been :).
LittleMissMelis 