Revlon "Blue Lagoon" Nail Polish Swatch + Review

two coats, natural light

Revlon's "Blue Lagoon" is the perfect pastel blue nail polish. And I dont say this lightly because I have tried my fair share of blue nail polishes. Essie's "Borrowed and Blue" is a pretty color but it was limited edition and it was a bit too white, not enough blue. But "Blue Lagoon" is perfection. You can't see it in the swatch but "Blue Lagoon" is filled with iredescent glitter. Normally I'm not a fan of glitter but for some reason, this time I'm a big fan. It is noticeble enough that when I move my fingers I can see the glitter reflect the light. Revlon polishes are a bit hit-and-miss with me but I am so obsessed with ths color. I could spend the next twelve lines raving about this polish but I will end it here. Buy it! You will not regret it.

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Essie "Buy Me a Cameo" Swatch + Review

 three coats, natural light

I picked up "Buy Me a Cameo" on a whim this past weekend. I've been eyeing this nail polish for a while now--my collection doesn't really have any natural colors in it. I'm more of a bright nail polish sort of person. But bright nail polish isn't always the most appropriate thing. The day I bought this polish I was reading a book and in the book a boy gives a girl a cameo necklace. And like the nail polish obsessed girl that I am, that got me thinking about this color. Before I knew it I was already at the cash register with the nail polish in my hands.

"Buy Me a Cameo" is a unique color. The only way I can think of describing it is as a metallic pink-nude. It is a super soft polish. I hardly notice it when I'm wearing it. And unless you look close, from a distance it looks like you are wearing a super, super shiny clear top coat. Sometimes it is nice to take a break from bold color. And Essie is the brand for natural or soft nail polish. I did have a bit of trouble applying it the first time [I had to reapply because I thought my nails were dry enough to take off my socks. They weren't.] I wore it. The formulation is very liquidy--which normally doesn't bother me--but if I applied the layers too thickly then the polish would dry with noticeable brush strokes rather than a smooth solid finish.

It didn't happen so much the second time I wore this nail polish but I think that is because I was conscious and made sure to do thin coats. I looked over some reviews and none of them mention this problem. Just be wary if you buy it.

What do you think of "Buy Me a Cameo"? Does anyone know what the name is about? Normally I can figure them out but this one is a head-scratcher. Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield's Street Style

Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield out in New York City. Emma is wearing dark Tom Ford sunglasses, a medium-wash denim jacket, a simple black tee, black skinny jeans, and Lanvin oxfords. Andrew is wearing a navy blue top, tailored black pants, dark sunglasses and blue Converse [left].

 Emma Stone andAndrew Garfield ou an about in New York City. Emma is wearing dark cate eye sunglasses, a camel colored coat, a speckled sweater, a white buon-down top, Rag and Bone skinny jeans, and Lanvin oxfords. Andew is wearing dark sunglasses, a tailored blackcoat, a dak cardigan and top, fitted dark pants, and black Converse [right].

 Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield out together in New York City. Emma is wearing dark sunglasses, a simple black top, a Rag and Bone biker jacket, light-wash skinny jeans, and back Lanvin flats. Andrew is wearing dark sunglasses, a dark peacoat, red and tan plaid shirt, fited black pants, and blue Converse [left.

Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield walking in NewYork City. Emma is wearing black oversized sunglasses, a Rag and Bone wool jacket, a simple white button-up top, Rag and Bone leggings, and Lanvin flats. Andrew is wearing a navy peacoat, a navy zip-up hoodie, teal pants, and black suede oxfords [right].

What do you think of Emma and Andrew's style? Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my seond blog!

Maybelline Fit Me Blush in "Medium Coral" Swatch + Review

I have had my eyes on the Maybelline Fit Me Blushes since they were released ages ago. I found the idea behind the Fit Me collection intriguing. The collection [made up of foundations, blushes, and bronzers] is split into three categories--Light, Medium, and Deep. The products are supposedly formulated to fit each skin tone. This line was made for people who want easy makeup purchasing decisions. Although I am a confessed makeup junkie, the simple names--"Medium Coral" or "Light Rose" or "Deep Nude"--is refreshing.

This is the first Fit Me blush I've ever tried and I didn't know what to expect. From what I've read from seeing other reviews, all of the Fit Me blushes are all extremely sheer. And "Medium Coral" is no different. It wouldn't even swatch visibly on my hand. I had to use the inside of my wrist. I understand why Maybelline would want these blushes to be sheer--the Fit Me collection is all about easy and effortless makeup--but it is almost too sheer. It does give a nice flush to the face, though. I'm not a terribly pale person and I don't think it would work on anyone with a much darker complexion.

Here is a closer look at the brush and the powder. One of the things that impressed me so much about these blushes was the packaging. For a four dollars blush,  the packaging is sleek and understated. I was pleasantly surprised with the brush that came with the blush. It applied the blush evenly to the face and it is so convenient to have in your purse for touch-ups. I've used the brush a handful of times and the bristles are beginning to fall out. This is not a brush that will last a lifetime but it really is handy.

Here is the swatch. As you can see it is VERY sheer. This is about four or five layers. Although you can't see it, the blush has a hint of subtle shimmer to it. Overall, I think the Fit Me blushes were a fantastic idea--easy makeup for busy consumers--but it didn't translate as well in execution. If the blush had a smidgen more pigmentation, this very well could have been  Holy Grail product. Yet, it is only another example of underwhelming drugstore products. It would be nice for fair-skinned people. It gives a very natural flush to the cheeks but it requires quite a bit of work to get the desired effect. There are better products out there on the market but I still like this blush. I might pick up another shade--this time from the Deep line despite the fact that I do NOT have a dark complexion by any stretch of the imagination.

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

OPI "If You Moust You Moust" Swatch + Review

two shades, natural light

I'm finally getting around to reviewing some of the lovely shades from the new-ish OPI Minnie Mouse collection. I am the biggest Disney fan--and whether it's the kid in me or just my plain old imaturity, I was so excited when I saw this in Trade Secret. But I tried to convince myself that I didn't need it. Boy, was I wrong and I ended up picking up two shades. I knew that I needed this shade when I saw my sister's nails after she got a manicure. Plus, it's Minnie Mouse. It was a no brainer!

It reminds me a bit of "ElePhantastic Pink". Although "If You Moust You Moust" is a blue-r based pink. I normally don't like pinks but I loved this shade. It was super easy to apply and it was super opqaue. All of my nails only needed two coats--except for the right ring finger. It is a fantastic color and I'm thinking that I might go back and pick up the other two shades. Gosh. I am in love with this color. It's fantastic!

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my blog!

Kylie Jenner's Street Style

Kylie Jenner shopping in West Hollywood wearing dark sunnies, a bright yellow Zara top, dark-wash skinny jeans, and nude Prada "Peony" suede heels [left].

Kylie Jenner out shopping in Malibu wearing a cream Rick Owens leather jacket, a simple black tank, dark-wash skinny jeans, a Balenciaga City bag, and Christian Louboutin "Egoutina" riding boots [right].

 

 Kylie Jenner in Malibu wearing a simple white tank tucked into black and white Topshop printed pants paired with black "Lady Peep" spiked Christian Louboutin pumps [left].

Kylie Jenner with her mom, Kris Jenner, at the opening of Scott Disick's restaurant wearing black cropped blazer, a yellow Chloe silk top, pale pink Parker pleated skirt, and black "Very Prive" Christian Louboutin pumps [left].

What do you think of Kylie Jenner's street style? Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

CoverGirl "Champagne" Eyeshadow Swatch + Review

 I have been a beauty/fashion blogger for how many years? And only last week did I buy my first CoverGirl eyeshadow and my second CoverGirl item EVER. I've only ever purchased a tube of CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara a couple years back. I don't know why I am never gravitated towards CoverGirl products. They have amazing advertising and think that they do an excellent job of picking spokespeople but in-store I find the packaging and presentation a little lackluster.

My attention was first draw to this product when Amarixe talked about it in one of her videos. I was looking to buy a second highlighter color because I couldn't find the MAC "Naked Lunch" Eyeshadow that I've been using lately. "Naked Lunch" is more of a golden, champagne color and "Champagne" is a icy, white-ish color. Both are really great highlighters--on the brow bone or in the inner corner of the eye.

I did about three layers in the photo above to get an opaque color for the picture. It was terribly difficult to do and if you are looking for a really opacity "Champagne" is NOT the highlighter for you. It is hard to work with but it is easy to blend. I also have to point out that this shade gets a little flakey sometimes. It is slightly less opaque than the MAC eyeshadow but that is very impressive considering that the CoverGirl eyeshadow was three dollars and the MAC eyeshadow was fourteen dollars.

The packaging leaves much to be desired. It looks cheap--and why is the packaging blue? For the CoverGirl brand, packaging is the place that they could make the biggest improvement. I know that they have been slowly introducing product lines that look clean and chic. But this navy blue plastic packaging is not cutting it. This is a good product but it requires quite a bit more effort to get a similar effect than some of the more expensive eyeshadows. I like the finished look but I would be upset with the quality if it hadn't been so inexpensive.

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in "Apricot Berry" Swatch + Review

The Laura Geller Blush-N-Brighten in "Apricot Berry" is one of two blushes that I brought on my trip. Although it can look a little intimidating in the pan, it gives a surprisingly natural flush to the cheeks. When I was first getting into makeup my mother would exclusively buy Laura Geller and Bare Essentials. I grew up using these products and loved them but as I got older I started buying products I wanted to try other brands and explore my options.

It wasn't until earlier this summer when I was browsing through my sister's makeup bag that I found this product. It is easily in her top two blushes. I started using it while I was staying at my parent's house for the summer and I feel in love. I remembered why I loved Laura Geller when I was younger.

Now my blush is a little messy but I love the packaging. The lips are a perfect addition. The packaging is sleek and sophisticated.  

Also, when you flip open the lid there is a little mirror on the inside. Now, it isn't terribly big but in a pinch, it'll get the job done. These blushes are quite expensive--retailing somewhere around thirty dollars! I don't think this blush is worth that much money. I think thirty dollars is insane and how does one even justify spending that much money on a blush? I think it was a moment of insanity but I'm so glad that I have this. It really is quite beautiful. Let me reaffirm: It is NOT worth the money but if you want to treat yourself and you have a little extra money to splurge, this is a great product.

Here is a look at what the color looks like on the skin. It is a pretty, shimmery shade. While this color is extremely buildable, it is so subtle that there is no worry about looking clownish or like you have a contagious rash. It is so easy to swipe on to the cheeks--msot mornings I don't even use a mirror. You can buy Laura Geller products in select Macy's, Sephora, and at the official Laura Geller website.

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Revlon "Sweet Tart" Lip Butter Swatch + Review

This month, I have found a new love. It is probably getting obnoxious the amount of times I have blogged about Revlon products--especially about Lip Butters. But they are amazing products and I need to give them the recognition they deserve. I am staying with my Grandmda for three weeks and when I packed for my trip I accidentally grabbed this Lip Butter--probably thinking that it was "Strawberry Shortcake", which I love. But this shade is STUNNING. It is a subtle berry color and it looks SO good on the lips. It doesn't look cakey or fake like some of the lip butters tend to do if you apply them too quickly.

  

Like all the other Lip Butters I've reviewed "Sweet Tart" is moisturizing and easy to apply. This particular shade has a lipstick-like opacity. I have worn this shade almost all month long. It is amazing. I'm surprised to say this but it is probably my second favorite Lip Butter over passing "Strawberry Shortcake". Both are great colors but at the moment I can't get enough of "Sweet Tart". Not to mention that this is the color that Emma Stone is wearing on the cover of the latest issue of Teen Vogue. See? I'm not the only one is a fan of this shade.

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Kendall Jenner's Street Style

Kendall Jenner shopping in West Hollywood with sister, Kylie Jenner, wearing navy blue cut-out heels, white Rag and Bone skinny jeans, blue lace bra-let, and simple grey tank [left].

Kendall Jenner in Los Angeles wearing a lavender body-con dress with lace sleeves and nude Brian Atwood "Bambola" pump [right].

Kendall Jenner at the opening of Scott Disik's restaurant in New York City wearing a bold long-sleeved striped dress and bronze YSL "Tribtoo" pumps [left].

Kendall Jenner leaving her hotel in New York City wearing a simple white high-low dress and YSL leather wedges [right].

What do you think of Kendall Jenner's style? She used to live in the shadows of her older, Kardashian sisters but now she is stepping out into the spotlight with her sister, Kylie. Which look is your favorite?

Leave a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

OPI "Brisbane Bronze" Swatch + Review

two coats, natural light

I'm a little behind on my nail polish swatches. I wore this color about a week ago, just before I left Oahu. I am a sucker for metallics and when I saw swatches of this color online. It is the perfect deep bronze color. It looks quite brown in the picture above but in the sunlight, this color is so beautiful. Like most OPI polishes, this one was easy to apply and I had no problems whatsoever with the formulation. I don't really have much to say other than I really, really loved this nail polish. And even though I was sporting bronze nail polish for the Olympics, I was hoping Team USA would grab gold! I'm still a bit bummed that the Olympics are done. I guess I'll have to wait until Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016.

Leave me a comment! Chat with me on twitter! Check out my second blog!

Zoe Saldana's Street Style

Zoe Saldana out and about in Beverly Hills wearing brown ballet flats, medium-wash denim bootleg jeans, simple button-down top, embellished brown jacket, peachy-nude handbag, large silver hoop earrings, and dark oversized sunglasses [left].

Zoe Saldana shopping in Beverly Hills wearing black peep-toe heels, dark-wash bootleg jeans, white button-down top, structured black handbag, tailored black pea coat, fringed navy scarf [right].

Zoe Saldana in Beverly Hills wearing snakeskin silver pumps, oversized printed sweater, black skinny belt, knitted grey scarf, delicate off-white handbag, silver necklace, and oversized dark sunglasses [left].

Zoe Saldana in Beverly Hills wearing strappy black sandals, tailored black pants, Stella McCartney tote, black and white stripped tank, studded wrap-around bracelet, and dark oversized sunglasses [right].

What do you think of Zoe's style? Do you have a favorite look? Tell me in the comments below! Don't forget to follow and check out my second blog! I would feel so honored.

Photos courtesy of celebritieswonder.net

Gisele Bundchen's Street Style

Gisele Bundchen in Brentwood wearing embellished flip-flops, light wash denim shorts, assorted silver jewelry, medium grey camisole, darker grey cardigan, brown leather handbag, and dark shades [left].

Gisele Bundchen at Studio City wearing nude flip-flops, short light wash denim cutoffs, wide brown woven belt, deep blue tank, brown handbag, and dark sunglasses [right].

Gisele Bundchen out shopping wearing gladiator inspired sandals, light wash denim shorts, loose black top, delicate pendant, brown handbag, and dark sunglasses [left].

Gisele Bundchen in Burbank wearing emebllished off-white ballet flats, black skinny jeans, black undershirt, loose grey top with pocket, quilted black handbag, dark sunglasses, feather earrings, and assorted jewelery [right].

What do you think of Gisele's style? Do you have a favorite look? Tell me in the comments below! Don't forget to check out my second blog, my twitter, and follow this blog for updates!

Photos courtesy of celebritieswonder.net

OPI "ElePhantastic Pink" Swatch + Review

three coats, natural light

Let me start this review by saying that I am NOT a pink person. I've never really liked the color. Even with nail polish, I normally don't gravitate towards pinks. But there is something about this color that I jsut absolutely love. It's a bright, fruity color and it looks so good on. The picture above does a really good job of showing how fantastic the color looks in person. It is easily my favorite pink nail polish--ever.

I first saw it when a couple years ago my sister went to get a manicure and picked this color. The whole time she was wearing the color, I wanted to buy it. "ElePhantastic Pink" is a perfect summer polish and I don't hesitate in recommending this color to everyone on the internet. It is just THAT good. The only downside [and it really isn't that big of a downside] is that it is a bit streaky and I had to add one coat more than I had anticipated. It wasn't a big deal but just something that I noticed.

MAC "Lustering" Lipstick Swatch + Review

Another MAC lipstick review. Surprise. Surprise. MAC is my favorite brand for lipsticks. The packaging feels well-made and the range of colors is something that very few brands are able to compete with. I have purchased only a handful of MAC lipsticks in my life and I have never been disappointed. They are a bit pricey--$15 each--but it isn't too terrible for a high-end lipstick considering that some drugstore lipsticks are around nine dollars.

Even though it is hard to tell from the picture above, this lipstick has a beautiful sheen to it. "Lustering" is a beautiful berry color that looks so beautiful on the lips. There is no shimmer--it is actually a pretty natural looking color. I haven't heard much about "Lustering" on the blog-o-sphere or anywhere online. I actually bought it on a whim because my sister pointed it out to me and it was so beautiful when I swatched it on my hand. For the longest time I had a prejudice against lustre lipsticks. MAC lustre eye shadows are so difficult to work with that I just assumed that the lipsticks would be along the same line. I was wrong. Boy, was I wrong. Now the lustre formulations are easily my favorite--possibly tied with cremesheens. Lustres are so moisturizing and easy to work with. The lasting power isn't incredible but it dries and leaves a nice tint to color to the lips. Plus, I love that I don't need to wear a lip gloss. "Lustering" is a hidden gem in the MAC lipstick collection and I would love to see it get the attention it deserves. 

Taylor Swift's Street Style

Taylor Swift spending time in Manhattan wearing a crisp white button-up, distressed shorts, black and cream oxfords, and light brown handbag [left].

Taylor Swift out and about in SoHo wearing wearing lace-up mustard heels, high-waisted emerald green mini skirt, sheer mustard and blush button-up printed blouse, printed and bronze tote, and oversized dark sungalsses [right].

Taylor Swift visiting the BBC Studios in London wearing a fitted red and white printed dress, grey flats with bow detailing, silver key-charm necklace, and oversized off-white cardigan [left].

Taylor Swift heading to a performance in New York City wearing knee-high dark brown riding boots, dark grey skinny jeans, and loose fitting white blouse [right].

What do you think of Taylor's style? Which look do you like the best? Talk about it in the comments below! Don't forget to check out my second blog! Or chat with me on twitter!

Photos courtesy of celebritieswonder.net

Nicole by OPI "Rainbow in the S-Kylie" Swatch + Review

three coats, natural light

Another shade from the Kardashian Kolors. This is an exact dupe for OPI "Rainbow Connection". If you loved that color but didn't get your hands on it or didn't want to spend the money, buy this color! I wouldn't consider this shade an actual nail polish. It is more like a top coat. This was three coats and I couldn't image how many coats would be necessary to get an opaque finish. I was feeling very summery and bright when I painted my nails this color. It isn't something I would normally paint all my nails. I think it would look fantastic as an accent nail over another polish. 

Here is another look at the polish. It really is a rainbow, right? But while it is fun to wear, it should come as no surprise that it was a pain to take off. Sigh. I don't know what I was thinking. "Rainbow in the S-Kylie" is a really beautiful color but I wouldn't expect my nail to look like the bottle. It would take too many coats and then the polish would flake off.