tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34351825698507612172024-03-05T11:52:22.377-08:00The Femme Reviewachiyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07460976521998987301noreply@blogger.comBlogger656125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-65491976871552256002012-01-16T12:14:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.359-08:00I'm back! An Update and Sayonara Products<div style="text-align: center;">Long time, no post femmes! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After a 2 month or so hiatus, I am back from the blogging grave. I apologize for my extended and unannounced absence. Life, as it tends to do, threw me a few curve balls that necessitated I put this blog on the back burner. Without getting too personal, my life has been changing radically in a handful of ways: Alex and I broke up after nearly 3 years of dating; my family members experienced an array of medical emergencies; and I finished my first semester in a PhD program, completed my finals and received straight A's (whoop!), and started my second term last week; and someone I know found my blog, so I have started to slowly come out of the blogging closet. Phew! Some of these events are sad news, but overall my life is moving in a positive direction and I am excited to get back to blogging more consistently!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While away, my cosmetics addiction has petered off a great deal and I actually have hauled very few items. In fact, the only recent acquisitions I can think of are a few Revlon Lip Butters. My daily routine has simplified a lot, and I have been more and more confident in sporting a natural look. Not only has it encouraged me to embrace my skin as it is , but it also saves me time in the mornings! But no worries, the vanity busts open for nights out, and I have been particularly obsessed with red lips lately. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is not the most exciting first post back from the dead, but here are the products that I have depleted in the past few months. It feels good to clean out the inventory and focus more on the products I use most and love. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stCOq3PoAfg/TxSCqlJ9S-I/AAAAAAAABJs/BWLSl3oUmEU/s1600/IMG_6373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stCOq3PoAfg/TxSCqlJ9S-I/AAAAAAAABJs/BWLSl3oUmEU/s640/IMG_6373.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> John Frieda Sheer Blonde Shampoo & Conditioner (for darker blondes)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>St. Ives Green Tea Cleanser</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Korres Fig Showergel</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Aussie 3 Minute Miracle</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Biore Deep Cleansing Strips</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Garnier Fructis Leave In Conditioning Cream</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Victoria's Secret Island Escape Body Mist</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Yes to Tomatoes Moisturizer </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocxr2ETcF0w/TxSDArA1GuI/AAAAAAAABJ8/KV2HYEChNYo/s1600/IMG_6375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocxr2ETcF0w/TxSDArA1GuI/AAAAAAAABJ8/KV2HYEChNYo/s640/IMG_6375.JPG" width="558" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>blinc Mascara</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Benefit BadGal Plum</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>elf Eyelash Curler</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Seche Vite Top Coat</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sally Hansen Double Duty Base & Top Coat</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> alba Passion Fruit Nectar Lip Balm</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Look forward to new FOTDs. OOTDs, reviews, tutorials, and discussions coming soon!</span> <span style="font-size: large;">And thanks for being so patient with me!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-48137432485955030512011-11-18T09:59:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.460-08:00Vampy Lipstick, Day to Night<div style="text-align: center;">I can't get enough of deep red and berry lipsticks this Autumn, and it is definitely the perfect season for it. Though I am not too shy to rock a vampy shade during the day, even I have to admit that it can sometimes be a bit overpowering. Taking a vampy lipstick from day to night is easy, and makes me feel like I am doubling my makeup collection by creating different looks with just one product.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can do this with most any red, dark wine, plum, or berry lipstick of your choice. Here, I am using MAC Musky Amethyst (Semi-Precious collection), but I also love to do this with Revlon Black Cherry. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nvZi1M7dxlM/TsaO5B6d8RI/AAAAAAAABJk/M00EHSFWOkM/s1600/IMG_3100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nvZi1M7dxlM/TsaO5B6d8RI/AAAAAAAABJk/M00EHSFWOkM/s400/IMG_3100.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Day</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">A dark, vampy shade can easily be transformed into a subtle, sheer lip stain. I do this by first coating my lips with a light layer of moisturizing lip balm and then dabbing on a bit of the lipstick on my pout straight from the tube. Using my finger, I blend out the lipstick and pat on more color until I achieve the shade I am looking for. Although I paired this with very natural makeup below, you could certainly go darker on the eyes since the lips are not overwhelming. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weqGvPsiyQE/TsaO2HJ0VjI/AAAAAAAABI8/ep6Klo_Yjj4/s1600/IMG_4584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weqGvPsiyQE/TsaO2HJ0VjI/AAAAAAAABI8/ep6Klo_Yjj4/s640/IMG_4584.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eU3lmGgHq3o/TsaO2Tf5jiI/AAAAAAAABJE/BFdhvAZVg6U/s1600/IMG_4590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eU3lmGgHq3o/TsaO2Tf5jiI/AAAAAAAABJE/BFdhvAZVg6U/s400/IMG_4590.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCOXr4WukyE/TsaO1_22s5I/AAAAAAAABI0/nTwFe6gc9Wc/s1600/IMG_4580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cCOXr4WukyE/TsaO1_22s5I/AAAAAAAABI0/nTwFe6gc9Wc/s640/IMG_4580.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Night</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">MAC Musky Amethyst looks completely different when applied opaquely. For this vampy night look, I applied the lipstick with a lip brush to achieve the greatest precision. I have only seen a few people who can actually pull of a dark eye and a statement at the same time, so I played it safe by allowing to focus to be on my lips and paired it with natural, slightly defined eye.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JY2qAMTRyI/TsaO2pvDg0I/AAAAAAAABJM/t3dEOOS3PZY/s1600/IMG_5936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JY2qAMTRyI/TsaO2pvDg0I/AAAAAAAABJM/t3dEOOS3PZY/s640/IMG_5936.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pjr3shMGh5E/TsaO2wlmVpI/AAAAAAAABJc/4ekpbryQlys/s1600/IMG_5954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pjr3shMGh5E/TsaO2wlmVpI/AAAAAAAABJc/4ekpbryQlys/s400/IMG_5954.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6JhCkk6_DRQ/TsaO2pMyNkI/AAAAAAAABJU/uE71530WoKU/s1600/IMG_5940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6JhCkk6_DRQ/TsaO2pMyNkI/AAAAAAAABJU/uE71530WoKU/s640/IMG_5940.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">What are your favorite vampy shades this Fall?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-71773246669976497292011-11-17T16:17:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.552-08:00Zoya Marina- The only blue I've ever loved...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DRog9n5kz7A/TsWf_PgYCOI/AAAAAAAABGs/vymvvfSTh3I/s1600/IMG_6032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DRog9n5kz7A/TsWf_PgYCOI/AAAAAAAABGs/vymvvfSTh3I/s640/IMG_6032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't do blues. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Though it looks fine on other people, I am actually really anti-blue for myself.</div><div style="text-align: center;">No matter how I work it, I look like a playboy bunny (and not in a good way) when I wear blue eyeshadows. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't think of a single blue article of clothing in my closet.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I own 2 other blue nail polishes, both of which have only been touched once. </div><div style="text-align: center;">No matter the shade, it just simply isn't a color I gravitate towards. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOdIkytGH5Y/TsWf_e11BOI/AAAAAAAABGw/QPMua9dY0eQ/s1600/IMG_6034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BOdIkytGH5Y/TsWf_e11BOI/AAAAAAAABGw/QPMua9dY0eQ/s640/IMG_6034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">But I am about to eat my words. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Zoya Marina</b>, a shade recently released in the Mirrors Colelction, is the only blue I have ever loved. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Just <i>look </i>at this shade! How could I not love this metallic, steely blue?</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Recently I have been really feelin' an early 90's biker chick vibe and this polish reminds me of motorcycle chrome. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNalvl8yfmA/TsWf_sHKNXI/AAAAAAAABG4/j2Dkt-ua_kU/s1600/IMG_6039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNalvl8yfmA/TsWf_sHKNXI/AAAAAAAABG4/j2Dkt-ua_kU/s640/IMG_6039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Zoya Marina is opaque in two coats. I found the formula easy to work with, and unlike some metallic polishes, it was streak free. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-11280560507768426792011-11-12T06:42:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.654-08:00NYX Circe (MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 dupe?)<div style="text-align: center;">Shortly after New Years, MAC will be discontinuing my first ever purchase from the brand and one of my favorite lipsticks of all time, Viva Glam Gaga 2. As of now, you can still buy MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 on the MAC website, and it is also available in a holiday gift set called Viva Glam Melt Your Heart Lip Bag, which also includes the pink Viva Glam Gaga 1 shade. Instead of stockpiling multiple backups and breaking the bank in the process, I went on the hunt for a more affordable comparable shade and stumbled upon NYX Circe. Is it dupe worthy? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aXO8gr8nPgU/Tr5_2_qJImI/AAAAAAAABFs/2D4tiI7AQoI/s1600/cicre.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aXO8gr8nPgU/Tr5_2_qJImI/AAAAAAAABFs/2D4tiI7AQoI/s640/cicre.png" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAzRu-JMzPo/Tr5_3lsCsLI/AAAAAAAABF8/nrNMSVCgb2U/s1600/IMG_5044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAzRu-JMzPo/Tr5_3lsCsLI/AAAAAAAABF8/nrNMSVCgb2U/s400/IMG_5044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>NYX Circe vs MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2</u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Price</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>NYX</i>- I bought this off of Cherry Culture during a sale and spent less than $2. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>MAC</i>- This gem will run you $14.50 on its own, or $36 for the Viva Glam Melt Your Heart Lip Bag which also includes the pink Viva Glam Gaga 1 shade.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Formula</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>NYX- </i>The formula is ultra creamy, but to the point of being slippery. Though it provides decently opaque coverage, I can feel the product sliding around my lips when I wear it. In terms of scent and taste, neither are too strong or unpleasant.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>MAC- </i>As an Amplified Creme, this lipstick is incredibly opaque and I find it quite creamy as well. However, it doesn't have the slip of the NYX formula. Of course, MAC is notorious for its vanilla scented lipsticks, so applying this one is a real treat.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Staying Power</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>NYX-</i><b> </b>I can get an hour or two of wear out of this lipstick- more if I layer it over a liner or a touch of concealer, less if I top it with a gloss. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>MAC-</i><b> </b>I get considerable more wear out of this one, but I wouldn't say it is especially long lasting. A few hours at best, less if topped with a gloss. <b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Shade</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">The two lipsticks are remarkably close in shade, but I wouldn't call them exact dupes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><i>NYX</i>- Slightly deeper in shade, less pigmented, a touch less glossy of a finish. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">MAC- More of a 'milky' appearance because it is ever so lightly paler, more pigmented, a touch pinker, and glossier. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3oYklEEPAM/Tr5_3Z3sgGI/AAAAAAAABF0/1QQUXtsJ2Mo/s1600/IMG_5032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3oYklEEPAM/Tr5_3Z3sgGI/AAAAAAAABF0/1QQUXtsJ2Mo/s640/IMG_5032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OAxSNOA3rdo/Tr5_3yBw5gI/AAAAAAAABGE/r7RT0qEnn6Q/s1600/IMG_5070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OAxSNOA3rdo/Tr5_3yBw5gI/AAAAAAAABGE/r7RT0qEnn6Q/s400/IMG_5070.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">All in all, I highly prefer MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 for its superior formula and shade. NYC Circe, however, is nice to have around for when I want to create similar look without depleting my precious tube of Gaga 2. And we can't deny that price is a biggie here- because NYX Circe cost me less than $2, I don't mind reapplying often as much as I would with a more expensive shade. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-16527508363884172802011-11-11T16:56:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.676-08:00Bare Faced Beauty: Flaunting my Makeup-Free Face and Thoughts on Cosmetics<div style="text-align: center;">Today, Franca of Oranges & Apples is hosting the Friend Friday Roundup on the theme of no makeup. See her post and links for all the other contributors <a href="http://www.oranges-and-apples.com/2011/11/my-relationship-with-make-up-and-me-not-wearing-any.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OrangesAndApples+%28Oranges+and+Apples%29">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Never shy to sport a statement lip or dramatic eye, this blog has served in part to archive and share my makeup adventures. However, the look that makes me most hesitant is actually the most natural one. No, not the 'it took me 15 products to look natural' kind, but a clean, makeup-free face. So here it is, my boldest look yet in all of it's naked glory:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UeUQvILB4UE/Tr25T97uIOI/AAAAAAAABFk/IIyOVI8cf88/s1600/IMG_6101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UeUQvILB4UE/Tr25T97uIOI/AAAAAAAABFk/IIyOVI8cf88/s640/IMG_6101.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As beauty bloggers, many of us appreciate cosmetics in ways that the average person would find ludicrous. We lust over limited edition items, build museum worthy collections, race across town on the quest for a particular lipstick, swoon over unique packaging, and research a particular shade for hours. But for how many of us does this appreciation transform into a feeling of <i>need</i>? Especially in a culture that often values women for their beauty as much as (if not more than) her brains, it is pretty easy to feel this way. Wearing makeup makes me feel confident about myself, sure- but it would be just plain idiotic to think that this didn't have anything to do with these cultural values and how people respond to me. Knowing this, I have been trying to be consciously aware of my relationship to cosmetics. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My relationship with cosmetics has been a bit of a pendulum swing. When I was in middle school, I had absolutely no idea what shades worked for me or how to apply products. Thinking that more was better, I was chided by my parents for trying to look more mature than I was with my crappy blue eyeshadow (oh yes, I was that girl!). By high school and through college, my makeup routine had simplified to a handful of neutral shadows, a brown liner, a mascara, and pressed powder. I was a busy, self-confident bookworm who had little interest in changing up my daily routine.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> It wasn't actually until two years ago or so that my interest in beauty culture really kick started, and it was like middle school all over again. Loving the transformation cosmetics enabled, I frequently spent more than half an hour doing my makeup each morning and gravitated towards bold shades. I figured if I was going to wear makeup, I might as well <i>look </i>like I am wearing it, right? Somewhere during that time, I went from liking makeup to feeling like I <i>needed </i>it to look not just beautiful but just plain average. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankfully, I have started to mature out of that phase. Though I still appreciate a sexy red lip or an artfully blended eye, I am discovering that I actually look better the less makeup I wear. Realizing that my skin is actually quite nice, I have recently swapped my full coverage foundations out for more medium coverage ones and tinted moisturizers. While it is rare that I forgo cosmetics all together, some days a little concealer, mascara, and lip balm is all I have time or effort for. And I certainly don't wear makeup while just relaxing at home, and I can bare running to the grocery store with my face naked. I feel less depend on cosmetics and though I prefer to wear makeup, I know I don't need it all of the time to look like a normal, presentable human being. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">That being said, I am still excited by makeup (what a boring blog this would be if I didn't, right?). Most of all, I love how I can transform my look with makeup in a way that allows me to consciously construct, channel, and exude different expressions of femininity. My inner drag queen revels in this sort of gender play. What kind of woman am I today? An Old Hollywood starlet with matte red lips? Or how about a bad ass 90's biker chick with kohl rimmed eyes? Or maybe I am a powerful Grecian goddess with ethereal, glowing skin? Or maybe I am just lazy me, chillin' on the couch, watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer reruns with my friends, with not a stitch of makeup on at all. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you ever bare it all or do you wear makeup everyday? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you ever feel like you need makeup? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you use makeup to consciously present and play with your gender expression?</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-62159949603219413562011-11-10T17:11:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.706-08:00Fierce Femme FOTD: Really Red<div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite bloggers, Mandy over at <a href="http://prettymaking.blogspot.com/2011/11/revlon-super-lustrous-lipstick-in.html">Prettymaking</a>, posted a review today on one of my recent monthly favorites (see <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/11/october-favorites-no-flunkies.html">here</a>) and top lipsticks ever, Revlon SuperLustrous Really Red. There is a lot to love here- it is really matte, really red, really long on wear time...generally really phenomenal. This is one of the only statement lip colors I feel confident rockin' for a full day because I know it can go a really long while without a touch up. Mandy reminded me that I had a FOTD featuring this gem in queue from when I wore it out bowling last week- check it out! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOI8VGRaXzM/TrxxJhQqDYI/AAAAAAAABFE/39DHFhwTf8Y/s1600/IMG_5896+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOI8VGRaXzM/TrxxJhQqDYI/AAAAAAAABFE/39DHFhwTf8Y/s640/IMG_5896+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Face</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybelline SuperStay Makeup in Natural Beige</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hard Candy Glamoflauge Heavy Duty Concealer in Light</div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybelline Dream Matte Powder in Sand</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cheeks </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush in Rose </div><div style="text-align: center;">LORAC Perfect Lit Oil Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Eyes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">UDPP</div><div style="text-align: center;">LORAC Perfect Lit Oil Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight- dusted over lids</div><div style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil in Zero</div><div style="text-align: center;">wet N wild ColorIcon Eyeliner Pencil in White </div><div style="text-align: center;">Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lips</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon SuperLustrous Lipstick in Really Red</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCdcelbzevc/TrxxJfkZ6pI/AAAAAAAABE8/pm6SlosncmI/s1600/IMG_5893+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCdcelbzevc/TrxxJfkZ6pI/AAAAAAAABE8/pm6SlosncmI/s640/IMG_5893+-+Copy.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScoAGn32ILI/Trxy3GDKiVI/AAAAAAAABFM/CfygtEmYS9s/s1600/IMG_5905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScoAGn32ILI/Trxy3GDKiVI/AAAAAAAABFM/CfygtEmYS9s/s640/IMG_5905.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x677so2btAk/Trxy3myTbMI/AAAAAAAABFc/5o7k2mvxqcw/s1600/IMG_5909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x677so2btAk/Trxy3myTbMI/AAAAAAAABFc/5o7k2mvxqcw/s640/IMG_5909.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ae_ixYRXgqs/Trxy3bX8CZI/AAAAAAAABFU/Esh_9AF6Zu0/s1600/IMG_5907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ae_ixYRXgqs/Trxy3bX8CZI/AAAAAAAABFU/Esh_9AF6Zu0/s640/IMG_5907.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-69832353037171257752011-11-06T06:25:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:26:09.731-08:00October Sayonara Products<div style="text-align: center;">This month I finished up a whopping fifteen products; more impressive than that,eleven are cosmetic items! I have mentioned in other posts that I have really buckled down on makeup spending, buying only the products that I need, have thoroughly research, and/or have been really craving for a <i>long </i>time. As such, I am hauling less and focusing on and using up what I already have more! Here are the products that I said goodbye to this past month:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8qCtBeGSafo/TraAHfBUw4I/AAAAAAAABE0/4QngY8phnoI/s1600/IMG_5931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8qCtBeGSafo/TraAHfBUw4I/AAAAAAAABE0/4QngY8phnoI/s640/IMG_5931.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Revlon PhotoReady Concealer in Medium Light</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">As far as drugstore concealers go, this is one of the best that I have found. It is really creamy, has nice coverage, and lasts all day when set with powder. It works best on blemishes but this wouldn't be my first pick for dark circles- it tended to cake up a little and crease under the eyes, and doesn't have the peachy undertones to really cancel out the blue. I have a few other concealers to use up, but I would consider purchasing it again. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Urban Decay Primer Potion in Original, minis x2</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I received both of these mini PPs in palettes and have bee amazed by how long they have lasted me! UDPP is the only primer I have ever used or tried, and I haven't felt the need to look elsewhere because it does what it is supposed to do- make shadows more vibrant, prevent creasing, and prolong wear time. I replaced these two empties with a full-sized version in Eden, as seen in my recent <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/10/sephora-friends-family-sale-haul.html">Sephora Haul</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Remember when everyone was raving about these? There is a lot to love here- all natural, organic, fun and unique packaging, tasty flavors. I wouldn't say this lip balm provided the most hydration to my lips, but it certainly got the job done! I used this until the sphere was flat, and then using a toothpick I dug out the rest of the product and mixed it with sugar to make a lip sugar scrub.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Almay Makeup Erase Sticks</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">My mom gave these to me to throw in my purse, but I found that these were most helpful in the mornings to clean up residual eye makeup that transferred to my lower lash line. The stick of the q-tip is filled with makeup remover, and when you snap one of the cotton buds off the liquid saturates the other end. These were nice to have, but not an essential for me. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is just plain ol' witch hazel in a convenient squirt bottle. After washing my face I would load a cotton pad up with witch hazel and clean off any residual makeup, especially in my hairline. This did the trick, and it also did a decent job of shrinking my pores. I'll buy witch hazel again, but to save a few pennies I will just get the generic bottle.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Bath & Body Works Midnight Pomegranate EDT</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I picked this up in one of my mad hunts to find my signature scent, and it just didn't work out. Although I always received compliments when I wore it, I personally found it too sweet and fruity.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Physicians Formula Powder Palette Multi-Colored Press Powder in Buff</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I kept this in my purse to touch up throughout the day, and it was fine for a quick blot. However, as a setting powder this was pretty low performing- my skin was shiny within a few short hours, and reapplication lends itself to looking cakey.<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Cover Girl Professional Natural Lash Mascara in Clear</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I used this to set my brows, and it served me just fine! However, I have found another affordable clear mascara (Maybelline Great Lash) that has a smaller brush that is easier to tame my brows with, so I won't be repurchasing. <b></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>NARS Orgasm Illuminator</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">As a highlight and gel blush, I personally found this product pretty pointless. The gel was too thin, and once applied the pretty pinky gold shimmers were all but blended away. However, I did like this mixed with my foundation. I typically opt for matte finishes because they control oil better, but for a little luminosity I liked to mix this in. I did <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/10/sephora-friends-family-sale-haul.html">purchase a full size of this in Copacabana</a> after falling in love with the color and reading that the formula was thicker than Orgasm's. Updates on that soon!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Estée Lauder Double Matte Foundation in Cool Dusk</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">While researching Double Wear the SA provided me a sample with Double Matte as well. In short, this was a let down: though it gives excellent coverage, it fails to control oil, it looks mask-like, and leaves you white cast in photos. Read the full review <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/08/estee-lauder-double-wear-vs-double.html">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sephora Perfecting Tinted Moisturizer in Medium Peach</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">On its own, this is not a superior product. It is a little oily and provided almost zero coverage. However, I liked to mix this with my Revlon ColorStay for a more natural finish. I <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/10/sephora-friends-family-sale-haul.html">recently replaced</a> this with Tart'es Amazonian Clay Tinted Moisturizer, which I am loving so far so expect a review soon!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>philosophy vanilla birthday cake shower gel</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This was my birthday gift from Sephora, and it really did smell like cake! I enjoyed this while it lasted, but I don't want to smell like cake all the time. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>LORAC Perfect Lit Oil Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This little deluxe sample lasted me almost a full year, and I vacillated between love and ambivalence. At times I wouldn't think it wasn't anything special, but in comparison to other, lower-end highlighters I can tell how soft, smooth, and natural it applies to the skin. No big shimmers here, just a nice lit from within glow. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil in Zero</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This liner is among many bloggers' favorites, and I enjoyed it, too. Zero is very black, and the formula is incredibly creamy and easy to apply yet sets quickly and is long lasting. The only problem I had with this is that it didn't last on my waterline as long as I expected. I would repurchase this, put the price is pretty steep. I am testing out the Milani LIQUIF EYE Metallic Eyeliner Pencil in Black to see how it compares. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Phew! That's a lot!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">What did you finish up this past month? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-59959011582502331152011-11-04T15:20:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:09.759-08:00October Favorites (no flunkies!)<div style="text-align: center;"> Please excuse my tardiness in posting this month's favorites a few days late. I have been insanely busy this month (such is the life of a grad student), and thus my makeup routine has really simplified. My main concerns have been concealing dark under eye circles and adding some color to my cheeks to mask just how sleep deprived and crazy I feel. These past few weeks I have forgone eyeshadow almost completely, but have discovered that the trick to fooling people that your look is really put together is a quick swipe of red or berry lipstick! No flunkies to report this month, because I have really buckled down on spending.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ojZdZmaQbOs/TrQ61DAlUWI/AAAAAAAABEk/g9ahdMoqq8Y/s1600/IMG_5962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ojZdZmaQbOs/TrQ61DAlUWI/AAAAAAAABEk/g9ahdMoqq8Y/s640/IMG_5962.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Yes to Tomatoes Daily Balancing Moisturizer</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Using this again after a few months of being out has reminded me of why I adore this moisturizer so. It is a must for oily skinned folks, but is moisturizing enough to suit normal skin as well. This soaks in quickly, making for a great morning moisturizer. Read my full review <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/06/review-yes-to-tomatoes-facial-starter.html">here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Maybelline Dream Matte Powder in Sand</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Bloggers the world wide web over have raved about this product, so when my last setting powder was nothing but pan I picked up this budget friendly powder. I have been really impressed so far- it sets my foundation without making me look cakey, and adds a little extra coverage on days when I opt for just a tinted moisturizer. I still need to blot every once in a while and I don't think this is heavy-duty enough for my super oily summer skin, but for the cooler months it is fitting the bill. Review coming soon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Revlon SuperLustrous Lipsticks in Black Cherry & Really Red (matte)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">There is no better time than autumn to bust out the berry lippies, and this month Black Cherry has been my pick. I picked this up because I heard this vampy, glossy burgundy red shade is a MAC Media dupe, and I have been loving this for evening looks. During the day, I have been gravitating towards Really Red, a true red matte shade, for a clean and classic pop of color. See Really Red in a lineup of some of the other Revlon matte shades <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/08/matte-about-you-revlon-super-lustrous.html">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Maybelline SuperStay Makeup in Natural Beige</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">A friend of mine passed this along to me after she accidentally selected a shade too dark for her, and this baby has been sitting in my makeup collection untouched and unloved since then. Now that the weather is cooling off, my typically oily skin is balancing out (dare I say it is almost normal?!)<b> </b>so this foundation has replaced my usual matte finish formulas. SuperStay is a creamy, natural finish foundation with a great wear time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>NYX Cream Blush in Natural</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Last month the shade Boho Chic made it on to my favorites, but this month I have really been reaching for Natural. It is a no-brainer shade that goes with every look, and it gives me that 'I'm alive although I only got 2 hours of sleep' flush that I need. Check out swatches of this shade and other NYX Cream Blushes <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/09/nyx-cream-blushes.html">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><b>wet N wild ColorIcon Eyeliner Pencil in White</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">To keep my tired peepers looking bright, I have been applying this liner to my lower waterline. There are tons of white liners on the market, but this one is creamy, easy to apply, opaque, and best yet, super cheap! It also was essential in my <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/11/fierce-femme-fotd-ootd-someone-like-you.html">Adele inspired look</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> Urban Decay Glide-On 24/7 Eyeliner in Whiskey (on double-ended liner from Naked Palette)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Since I have been enjoying more natural and subtle eye looks this month, brown eyeliner has been an October staple. I loved it so much, in fact, that I used it all up!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Zoya Yara (not pictured above) </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YC4q3_0zJJ4/TqoOiGZmhaI/AAAAAAAAA8U/wQoi0IbyGjw/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YC4q3_0zJJ4/TqoOiGZmhaI/AAAAAAAAA8U/wQoi0IbyGjw/s400/IMG_5805.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am usually not into green that much, but this polish blew me away. How could you not love this olive green with gold flakies?! It was also a perfect base for my <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/10/frankenstein-nails-ft-zoya-yara.html">Frankenstein nail design</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">What have you been loving this month?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-7137961069187927272011-11-03T19:02:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:09.867-08:00Fierce Femme FOTD & OOTD: Someone Like You (Adele inspired)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9L3tWrMsOw/TrM-3v5mDCI/AAAAAAAABEE/MfUU_rp0nLs/s1600/IMG_5742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9L3tWrMsOw/TrM-3v5mDCI/AAAAAAAABEE/MfUU_rp0nLs/s640/IMG_5742.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite songs this season has been Adele's "Someone Like You." Not only is Adele a vocal powerhouse, but she is also absolutely, breath-takingly gorgeous. Additionally, I love seeing thick girls in the spot light, flaunting their talent and curves. This FOTD isn't a copy-cat look, but it is definitely heavily inspired by Adele's signature winged liner, white accents, and nude lips.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTL08_kBE4A/TrM-7YT6ZSI/AAAAAAAABEc/Kwy7bceyIYk/s1600/Adele-Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="529" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTL08_kBE4A/TrM-7YT6ZSI/AAAAAAAABEc/Kwy7bceyIYk/s640/Adele-Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zb-W7ueKCqI/TrM-24r6BmI/AAAAAAAABDs/E3EcjIk4Rcc/s1600/IMG_5725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zb-W7ueKCqI/TrM-24r6BmI/AAAAAAAABDs/E3EcjIk4Rcc/s640/IMG_5725.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Face</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Revlon ColorStay Foundation in Medium Beige (probably mixed with some illuminizer or lighter coverage foundation- I don't recall, sorry!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybelline Dream Matte Powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hard Candy Glamoflauge in Light</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Cheeks</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NYX Cream Blush in Boho Chic</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LORAC Spotlight Powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Eyes</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">UDPP</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">UD Virgin (from Naked Palette)- on lid </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Milani Infinite Liner in Everlast- winged liner on top</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wet n Wild ColorIcon Eyeliner in White- lower lash line and water line</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NYX Eyeshadow in matte white (from a palette)- to set white liner</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QiKHGz7x5SM/TrM-3O0TegI/AAAAAAAABD0/QAWrnxGxk8g/s1600/IMG_5733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QiKHGz7x5SM/TrM-3O0TegI/AAAAAAAABD0/QAWrnxGxk8g/s320/IMG_5733.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lips</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon ColorBurst in Soft Nude</div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon SuperLustrous Lipgloss in Peach Petal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DKkrVFBYbs/TrM-3Uxc-OI/AAAAAAAABD8/ZCHAcCNuU3A/s1600/IMG_5739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DKkrVFBYbs/TrM-3Uxc-OI/AAAAAAAABD8/ZCHAcCNuU3A/s320/IMG_5739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elSJHNHQyzM/TrM-3z0Vv7I/AAAAAAAABEM/r7rwMyRUIEg/s1600/IMG_5746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elSJHNHQyzM/TrM-3z0Vv7I/AAAAAAAABEM/r7rwMyRUIEg/s640/IMG_5746.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX3ZmZxOu4U/TrM-4P-ldwI/AAAAAAAABEU/SUidvf_OQpo/s1600/IMG_5750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX3ZmZxOu4U/TrM-4P-ldwI/AAAAAAAABEU/SUidvf_OQpo/s640/IMG_5750.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Burgundy cami- Wet Seal</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fringe Crotchet Crop- PacSun</div><div style="text-align: center;">White Denim- Wet Seal (after Labor Day?!?!?!)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Boots- DSW</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you like Adele? What is your favorite song by her?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-89715465438656015772011-11-01T03:00:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:09.964-08:00Galaxy Nails<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5cewS-H9W8/TqwiHvbmyDI/AAAAAAAAA-M/XF4iJm9sM10/s1600/IMG_5874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g5cewS-H9W8/TqwiHvbmyDI/AAAAAAAAA-M/XF4iJm9sM10/s640/IMG_5874.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After seeing several gorgeous galaxy nail design floating around on nail art blogs, I had to try to recreate it for myself. Here is my first attempt- I think it is pretty, but nowhere near as mesmerizing or multidimensional as some others I have seen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iw7CWOpAQRM/Tqwh3LmiaFI/AAAAAAAAA98/r194j_urWsc/s1600/IMG_5873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iw7CWOpAQRM/Tqwh3LmiaFI/AAAAAAAAA98/r194j_urWsc/s640/IMG_5873.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7wCrCJwDo3Q/TqwiHcJJUjI/AAAAAAAAA-E/t93Q-m_3pqs/s1600/IMG_5866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7wCrCJwDo3Q/TqwiHcJJUjI/AAAAAAAAA-E/t93Q-m_3pqs/s640/IMG_5866.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPfGkKow4m4/Tqwh25M7drI/AAAAAAAAA90/PTnfv0GrzD4/s1600/IMG_5868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPfGkKow4m4/Tqwh25M7drI/AAAAAAAAA90/PTnfv0GrzD4/s640/IMG_5868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Polishes used:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sally Hansen Diamond Strength in Black Diamond</div><div style="text-align: center;">Zoya Dove</div><div style="text-align: center;">Zoya Creamy</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wet n Wild Blazed</div><div style="text-align: center;">Milani 3D Holographic High Res</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in Strobe Light<br />Sally Hansen Hard as Nails in White Tip<br /><br />Here is the tutorial, by youtuber CUTEPOLISH, I followed to create this design:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/3EMgt4_jW5U/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3EMgt4_jW5U&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3EMgt4_jW5U&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-72748677807173114552011-10-31T07:49:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.060-08:00Trick or Treat! My Biker Zombie Costume<div style="text-align: center;">Happy Halloween, my creepy ghouls!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am totally obsessed with Halloween, and Alex and I had a fantastic time coming up with our costumes this year. We are attending this year's Halloween festivities as biker zombies! Our back story is that we were on a ride and got into a crash. While at the hospital, the town was taken over by zombies. When the hospital was infiltrated by zombies, we failed to escape and we now walk the night and feast on brains!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I did our makeup to look freshly dead, sallow, banged up, and hungry for human flesh. Here are a few shots of our costumes! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wruxhtGzUc/Tq6y-tLHjRI/AAAAAAAABC0/ar1yTBO4kpg/s1600/IMG_5911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_wruxhtGzUc/Tq6y-tLHjRI/AAAAAAAABC0/ar1yTBO4kpg/s640/IMG_5911.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gz24EpDmJTs/Tq6y-5EOI1I/AAAAAAAABC8/nIPLMdt3JQE/s1600/IMG_5914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gz24EpDmJTs/Tq6y-5EOI1I/AAAAAAAABC8/nIPLMdt3JQE/s1600/IMG_5914.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLuB5S2AcE/Tq6zAEnXu8I/AAAAAAAABDc/g_mqDw_zj7A/s1600/IMG_5919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLuB5S2AcE/Tq6zAEnXu8I/AAAAAAAABDc/g_mqDw_zj7A/s640/IMG_5919.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uaUYBFGCebM/Tq6y_VorQcI/AAAAAAAABDM/CIFBEzffJ3o/s1600/IMG_5916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uaUYBFGCebM/Tq6y_VorQcI/AAAAAAAABDM/CIFBEzffJ3o/s640/IMG_5916.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOQVBnDhMUs/Tq6zAPtzhJI/AAAAAAAABDg/NrTU9LgNGVY/s1600/IMG_5921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOQVBnDhMUs/Tq6zAPtzhJI/AAAAAAAABDg/NrTU9LgNGVY/s640/IMG_5921.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lkorp0WlLeE/Tq6y__bCICI/AAAAAAAABDU/EgLDpVWl34Y/s1600/IMG_5917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lkorp0WlLeE/Tq6y__bCICI/AAAAAAAABDU/EgLDpVWl34Y/s640/IMG_5917.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94hvFHL_5yw/Tq6y_JTW9jI/AAAAAAAABDE/z0bNFvTGeS0/s1600/IMG_5915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94hvFHL_5yw/Tq6y_JTW9jI/AAAAAAAABDE/z0bNFvTGeS0/s640/IMG_5915.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Halloween! What are you dressing up as?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-40102516463053716642011-10-30T09:08:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.088-08:00Zombies, Vampires, and Sluts-oh my! Some Thoughts on Sexy Halloween Costumes<div style="text-align: center;">All Hallows Eve is the one night of the year that the spirits of the dead can walk the earth, and women can wear lingerie in public without ridicule. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Remember the film <i>Mean Girls</i>? New kid Cady arrives at a party in her frightening bride costume, only to discover that the other girls were using Halloween as an opportunity to wear as little as possible: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/sBySfz_w3YE/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sBySfz_w3YE&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sBySfz_w3YE&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The film humorously highlights a trend that I am sure most all of us are familiar with. But what is going on here? Why do women put on fishnets and bunny ears and call it a costume? What is going on in our culture that encourages this? Is it "slutty"; is it liberating? In this post, I would like to sketch out the debate and offer my own thoughts on the phenomena of women's hypersexualization via Halloween costuming. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My friend Grace, who blogs over at <a href="http://www.grace-and-beauty.com/">Grace & Beauty</a>, first got me thinking more critically about this issue. Grace posted a video to youtube and her blog imploring women to ditch the "slutty" Halloween costumes. With Grace's permission, here is her video:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/YbpT5SOzbWw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The comment responses to Grace's video have been heated- some slammed Grace for what they perceive as her anti-feminist, slut bashing position, and others celebrated and aligned with her opinions. My own critique falls somewhere in between. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Like Grace, part of me is saddened and disgusted when I see young women in lingerie and kitten ears prancing around on Halloween. It angers me to see women participating so uncritically in the systems (I'm looking at you, patriarchy!) that serve to limit our options and punish us for not conforming to gendered norms. Part of me looks at these women and sees them as brainwashed dupes of the patriarchy. On the other hand, I can't help but think about how our culture has produced the very conditions in which young women would want to do such a thing. Who gets to determine what is sexy? Who does this image of "sexiness" serve? I am all for women expressing themselves as sexual beings, but it strikes me that the very parameters for doing this are actually quite limited and narrow, and have been established and defined by a male gaze. Basically, what is considered "sexy" comes out of a male-dominated pornographic imagination. This definition of sexiness does not come from women who are consciously and critically considering how they want to express their sexuality for themselves. In our discussion of this issue, Grace made an astute observation that it can actually be challenging for women shopping at a Halloween store to find a costume that <i>isn't</i> sexualized. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moreover, women we reap real benefits, such as male sexual attention and social status, for conforming to these sexist standards of beauty and behavior. When we resist this norm and express our sexuality in a different way, we are called dykes, butch, prude, and so forth. Our culture still operates within the virgin/whore logic regarding female sexuality. If we express ourselves as people with sexual desires, we are called sluts; but if we don't put out, or we don't present ourselves in a way that our cultures sees as sexy, we are called prudes. Halloween is supposedly the one night where this doesn't apply. A combination of the narrow definition of "sexiness" and this pervasive virgin/whore logic might help explain why women might take Halloween as a "free pass." Reminding myself of these things helps me to be more sympathetic and understanding. It prevents me from perpetuating the problematic, misogynistic slut-bashing that I want to challenge. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Another issue I would like to breifly consider is how women who do go the "sexy cop" route on Halloween are demonized as inviting sexual assault. Some responders to Grace's video lamented that young women who dress as "sluts" for Halloween are walking rape targets. First of all, women never ask to be sexually assaulted. I don't care if you are trick or treating naked, that never gives someone the right to touch you without permission. Also, this type of victim-blaming negates the fact that women, regardless of how they dress or behave, can and are sexually assaulted by friends, family members, dates, and strangers all the time. That said, I do think women have a responsibility to be aware of the culture we live in. Though I would never, ever say that a young woman asks for or invites sexual assault or general creepiness, I do think that women must be realistic of how other people who are totally complacent with our culture's messed up views of gender and sexuality might interpret and misread our actions. Us ladies are in a perpetual bind, really. Ideally, we should be able to do and be and dress as we want, but in reality we also have to be attentive and practice risk management.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I would encourage us to resist the urge to look at this trend of sexy Halloween costuming as all good or all bad, as totally slutty or totally empowering. Hopefully my brief discussion of it helped to highlight the complex cultural issues at work here. Let me know what you think about this issue!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have a happy, creepy, and safe Halloween!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-57886747581804354052011-10-29T03:00:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.183-08:00Sephora Friends & Family Sale Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zqm3ifV4Y8/TqrfjFPAfyI/AAAAAAAAA9E/T7InMMiqRu8/s1600/IMG_5815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zqm3ifV4Y8/TqrfjFPAfyI/AAAAAAAAA9E/T7InMMiqRu8/s640/IMG_5815.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are the items I picked up during the recent Sephora Friends & Family Sale. I resisted the urge to splurge, hauling only three "must have" products and one that I have been lusting after for a few months.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZvyOsWDUso/TqrfjgV7KBI/AAAAAAAAA9M/THzxIFpZym0/s1600/IMG_5821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZvyOsWDUso/TqrfjgV7KBI/AAAAAAAAA9M/THzxIFpZym0/s640/IMG_5821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The "must have" products are:</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Tinted Moisturizer</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I adore Tarte's Amazonian Clay products, and read a bit of hype on this product, which is supposedly more like a light to medium coverage foundation than a tinted moisturizer. My oily prone skin has actually been, dare I say, more normal and balanced lately, and I have looking to branch out from matte finish, full-coverage foundations to let my well-behaving skin show through. I am so excited to see if this fits the bill. I bought the shade Agent 004, which is deigned for light skin with neutral undertones. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>NARS Copacabana Illuminator</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had a deluxe sample of the Orgasm Illuminator, and I found it to be a great multipurpose product. However, I wasn't wild about the shade. <b> </b>Copacabana is a<b> </b>pearly pinked beige, and I plan on mixing this in with my foundation and using it as a highlight.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">My makeup life changed when I discovered eyeshadow primer, and I recently ran out of the various mini versions I had of the Urban Decay ones. I selected Eden, a matte tawny beige primer, to also help conceal discoloration on my lids.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My nonessential treat:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Illamasqua Blush in Katie</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have been lemming for this blush for months after seeing it featured on various blogs, namely <a href="http://goldenglowww.blogspot.com/">Golden Glow</a> and <a href="http://gettingcheeky.blogspot.com/2011/10/lovely-shade-y-illamasquas-katie.html#comment-330682101">Getting Cheeky</a>. Katie, a matte milky pink, is not a shade I typically gravitate towards but there is something about this pale, creamy color that I found irresistible. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8uJihMeCgQ/Tqrj1T3bnJI/AAAAAAAAA9c/iB3MhyWym_c/s1600/IMG_5834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8uJihMeCgQ/Tqrj1T3bnJI/AAAAAAAAA9c/iB3MhyWym_c/s400/IMG_5834.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Did you haul anything during the Sephora Friends & Family Sale?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-20167086225029477142011-10-28T08:31:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.212-08:00Frankenstein Nails ft. Zoya Yara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PGDDwuBSK9k/TqoOiS3y6yI/AAAAAAAAA8c/C4836IkCTG4/s1600/IMG_5811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PGDDwuBSK9k/TqoOiS3y6yI/AAAAAAAAA8c/C4836IkCTG4/s640/IMG_5811.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Happy All Hallow's Eve weekend! </div><div style="text-align: center;">To get into the holiday spirit, I recreated this Frankenstein design that I have seen floating around on some blogs lately. Despite the fact that my cuticles are a mess, I totally adore this mani. I used two coats of <b>Zoya's Yara</b>, a phenomenal olive green with gold shimmer, and a Kiss nail art polish for the design.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2i2ksGK3fFc/TqoPXgp8crI/AAAAAAAAA80/YOyXgdJlQnU/s1600/IMG_5797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2i2ksGK3fFc/TqoPXgp8crI/AAAAAAAAA80/YOyXgdJlQnU/s640/IMG_5797.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1BLeWMSWkBw/TqoOhwisXTI/AAAAAAAAA8M/CxdZgEq6szI/s1600/IMG_5802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1BLeWMSWkBw/TqoOhwisXTI/AAAAAAAAA8M/CxdZgEq6szI/s640/IMG_5802.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YC4q3_0zJJ4/TqoOiGZmhaI/AAAAAAAAA8U/wQoi0IbyGjw/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YC4q3_0zJJ4/TqoOiGZmhaI/AAAAAAAAA8U/wQoi0IbyGjw/s640/IMG_5805.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlGmeS6MY5o/TqoOiu8IT1I/AAAAAAAAA8k/ARPi44wHrK0/s1600/IMG_5813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlGmeS6MY5o/TqoOiu8IT1I/AAAAAAAAA8k/ARPi44wHrK0/s640/IMG_5813.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-62239557612814190522011-10-23T08:23:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.313-08:00Breast Cancer Awareness Month- FOTD & Self-Exams<div style="text-align: center;">October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and bloggers have been doing their part by posting information and inspired FOTDs. For me, the standout post has been Jessica's from <a href="http://gettingcheeky.blogspot.com/2011/10/fotd-in-recognition-of-breast-cancer.html">Getting Cheeky</a>- not only was her FOTD simple and elegant, but she also reminded me of the importance of performing monthly breast self-exams. As Jessica argues, we spend countless hours a month applying cosmetics, yet often forget to take 15 minutes or so a month to focus on our health. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It occurred to me, though, that I didn't even know how to properly perform a monthly breast exam. After a bit of research, I discovered some helpful information. Although the <a href="http://ww5.komen.org/">Susan G. Koman Foundation</a> does not endorse breast self-exams as a screening or diagnostic tool for breast cancer, it is nonetheless important to become familiar with your breasts. Doing so will allow you to detect changes and warning signs early. Of course, if you notice any changes, contact your doctor. For more info on breast self-exams, check out the <a href="http://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/BreastSelfExam.html">Susan G. Koman Foundation's page on the subject</a>. Moreover, here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform monthly breast self-exams. If you don't do them regularly, I implore you to start. I know I am. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9i-9ASSjjM/TqQptecLcfI/AAAAAAAAA4w/OI_NMTIH79A/s1600/Breast-self-examination.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="617" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9i-9ASSjjM/TqQptecLcfI/AAAAAAAAA4w/OI_NMTIH79A/s640/Breast-self-examination.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is the pink inspired FOTD I came up with for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I wanted this look to be bold (the goal is awareness, after all!). However, the look is much more subtle in pictures for some reason. I assure you that in person, this look was much more dramatic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xfExn0UyRRE/TqQrRalhK-I/AAAAAAAAA5A/g9QhBg_nblE/s1600/IMG_5771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xfExn0UyRRE/TqQrRalhK-I/AAAAAAAAA5A/g9QhBg_nblE/s640/IMG_5771.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lPLNZTMswc/TqQrRdPnB6I/AAAAAAAAA44/cs3EBjn4AvA/s1600/IMG_5768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lPLNZTMswc/TqQrRdPnB6I/AAAAAAAAA44/cs3EBjn4AvA/s640/IMG_5768.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Face</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon ColorStay in Medium Beige</div><div style="text-align: center;">Benefit Boi-ing Concealer in Light</div><div style="text-align: center;">Benefit Erase Paste in Medium</div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybelline Dream Matte in Sand</div><div style="text-align: center;">e.l.f. Cool Bronzer </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cheeks</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">NYX Cream Blush in Boho Chic</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hard Candy Face and Body Luminizer in Doll Face<i></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Eyes </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Primer Potion</div><div style="text-align: center;">Benefit Lemon-Aid</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wet n Wild I'm Getting Sunburned trio- pink on lid</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wet n Wild Spoiled Brat trio- bright pink in crease and along lower lash line</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Pure- inner corners</div><div style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay 24/7 Glinde-On Eyeliner in Zero- upper lash line, tight line, lower water line</div><div style="text-align: center;">Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lips</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon SuperLustrous Lipstick in Primrose</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tarina Trantino Gem Gloss in Disco Nap</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-83360579432199438912011-10-20T16:54:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.411-08:00Falling Leaves Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt3F7nhJjw0/TqCos7TP81I/AAAAAAAAA4c/gQhUeAwafUY/s1600/IMG_5682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt3F7nhJjw0/TqCos7TP81I/AAAAAAAAA4c/gQhUeAwafUY/s640/IMG_5682.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Here in the Midwest, Autumn is finally starting to settle in. My partner and I adore this season, and we have relished in watching the leaves change colors and fall to the ground. The color palette of fiery reds, burnt oranges, crisp yellows, complex greens, and deep browns that we find outside our windows is perfect to pull into our makeup routines. Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to recreate this eye look inspired by the falling leaves of Autumn. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>1) Apply primer and a base to your lids to ensure your shadows pop and last all day. I used UDPP and NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rIGmKKNsaYg/TqCohxDF4kI/AAAAAAAAA18/aiwCSi_bLoo/s1600/IMG_5612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rIGmKKNsaYg/TqCohxDF4kI/AAAAAAAAA18/aiwCSi_bLoo/s200/IMG_5612.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVseNmy2zpQ/TqCoidwu0AI/AAAAAAAAA2E/ZyZil-T-iVw/s1600/IMG_5613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVseNmy2zpQ/TqCoidwu0AI/AAAAAAAAA2E/ZyZil-T-iVw/s200/IMG_5613.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />2) Apply a yellow based gold shadow to the inner third of your lids and inner corners of your eye.I used UD's Half Baked from the Naked Palette.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yF66o2a1qVw/TqCojCQLX7I/AAAAAAAAA2M/z94kBhVAPoo/s1600/IMG_5614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yF66o2a1qVw/TqCojCQLX7I/AAAAAAAAA2M/z94kBhVAPoo/s200/IMG_5614.JPG" width="178" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uytFfjHJYgg/TqCojcUh1CI/AAAAAAAAA2U/IHptvwiB5ho/s1600/IMG_5619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uytFfjHJYgg/TqCojcUh1CI/AAAAAAAAA2U/IHptvwiB5ho/s200/IMG_5619.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />3) Apply a burnt orange shade to the middle section of your lid, leaving the outer third free of shadow. I used Stila's eyeshadow in Ray. Using the side of your brush, gently blend the line where the gold and orange meet. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5odZoy3JhA/TqCoj5fh8jI/AAAAAAAAA2c/0ZVRH0DPFh8/s1600/IMG_5622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5odZoy3JhA/TqCoj5fh8jI/AAAAAAAAA2c/0ZVRH0DPFh8/s200/IMG_5622.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e_6Ftzib-MY/TqCok-FZuGI/AAAAAAAAA2s/mWRzPCEEYOI/s1600/IMG_5628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e_6Ftzib-MY/TqCok-FZuGI/AAAAAAAAA2s/mWRzPCEEYOI/s200/IMG_5628.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />4) Apply a red shadow to the last outer third of your lid. I used UD's Gash. Using the edge of your brush,blend the line between the red and orange shadows. If you do not have a red shadow, a copper or deep brown would also look lovely!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SeTaB8Q_9Dc/TqCokbFzzmI/AAAAAAAAA2k/Nq7uJxbde9E/s1600/IMG_5627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SeTaB8Q_9Dc/TqCokbFzzmI/AAAAAAAAA2k/Nq7uJxbde9E/s200/IMG_5627.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c12FLpIbobI/TqColaF5eyI/AAAAAAAAA20/6P1P7dWRkr0/s1600/IMG_5631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c12FLpIbobI/TqColaF5eyI/AAAAAAAAA20/6P1P7dWRkr0/s200/IMG_5631.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>5) With a clean fluffy blending brush, blend the hard line on the top of your lid. Be careful not the muddle the gradient of shades on your lids.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VqcjPFHwTvQ/TqCol4VPEGI/AAAAAAAAA28/QNeq1wZHY_s/s1600/IMG_5632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VqcjPFHwTvQ/TqCol4VPEGI/AAAAAAAAA28/QNeq1wZHY_s/s200/IMG_5632.JPG" width="190" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XA38g6UDS_M/TqComXQneeI/AAAAAAAAA3E/W_Cb6jjz0mM/s1600/IMG_5635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XA38g6UDS_M/TqComXQneeI/AAAAAAAAA3E/W_Cb6jjz0mM/s200/IMG_5635.JPG" width="191" /></a></div><br />6) Using an angled eyeliner brush, apply a dark green shadow to your lower lash line. I used a gorgeous shimmery dark green from the Wet n Wild Comfort Zone palette (top pan in photo). <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0CaMmQN-8/TqComhrOI7I/AAAAAAAAA3M/T_3-I9GY-Eo/s1600/IMG_5642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0CaMmQN-8/TqComhrOI7I/AAAAAAAAA3M/T_3-I9GY-Eo/s200/IMG_5642.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIg77S3ghk0/TqConAt0iRI/AAAAAAAAA3U/KqSLRqca3fU/s1600/IMG_5643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIg77S3ghk0/TqConAt0iRI/AAAAAAAAA3U/KqSLRqca3fU/s200/IMG_5643.JPG" width="186" /></a></div><br />7) Blend a reddish brown shade into your crease. I used a really complex reddish-brown/green duochrome shade from the Wet n Wild Comfort Zone palette (bottom pan in the picture). This is a really unique shade- if you don't have anything like it, a deep brown or even the dark green we applied to our lower lash lines would work fine as well. If need be, touch up your lid with the gold, orange, and red shadows if you feel you have blended out some of the pigmentation.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0CaMmQN-8/TqComhrOI7I/AAAAAAAAA3M/T_3-I9GY-Eo/s1600/IMG_5642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0CaMmQN-8/TqComhrOI7I/AAAAAAAAA3M/T_3-I9GY-Eo/s200/IMG_5642.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EfopgPpTDgM/TqConriKOII/AAAAAAAAA3c/i-OkXT3I-e8/s1600/IMG_5647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EfopgPpTDgM/TqConriKOII/AAAAAAAAA3c/i-OkXT3I-e8/s200/IMG_5647.JPG" width="193" /></a></div><br />8) Apply a brown eyeliner to your upper and lower lash line and tight line. I used UD's 24/7 Glide-On Pencil in Whiskey.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PAS-GGrvHEQ/TqCooIGcwZI/AAAAAAAAA3k/m_hUtV1tVG0/s1600/IMG_5655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PAS-GGrvHEQ/TqCooIGcwZI/AAAAAAAAA3k/m_hUtV1tVG0/s200/IMG_5655.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-goHcrN230uQ/TqCoojOaLnI/AAAAAAAAA3s/uG1Z4CFe_iI/s1600/IMG_5656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-goHcrN230uQ/TqCoojOaLnI/AAAAAAAAA3s/uG1Z4CFe_iI/s200/IMG_5656.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />9) Curl those lashes and apply your favorite mascara. I used the e.l.f. essentials eyelash curler and Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes mascara.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QoJ0htH7rNY/TqCopoQEtgI/AAAAAAAAA38/aAN34LoqBLs/s1600/IMG_5658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QoJ0htH7rNY/TqCopoQEtgI/AAAAAAAAA38/aAN34LoqBLs/s200/IMG_5658.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUx16bYkfv8/TqCoqIW7pMI/AAAAAAAAA4E/-aNahiERp-Y/s1600/IMG_5665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUx16bYkfv8/TqCoqIW7pMI/AAAAAAAAA4E/-aNahiERp-Y/s200/IMG_5665.JPG" width="186" /></a></div><br />10) Finish the look with a natural blush and a glossy nude lip. I opted for NYX Cream Blush in Boho Chic and Revlon ColorBurst Lipstick in Soft Nude lined with NYX lip liner in Ever and topped with Buxom Big & Healthy Lipgloss in Sandy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T_BtBf5rS0o/TqCosSkg3CI/AAAAAAAAA4U/S0CSN7NQ1ns/s1600/IMG_5674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T_BtBf5rS0o/TqCosSkg3CI/AAAAAAAAA4U/S0CSN7NQ1ns/s640/IMG_5674.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXCy1JGsTns/TqCoqcK4FxI/AAAAAAAAA4M/PIn6xwy3rso/s1600/IMG_5670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXCy1JGsTns/TqCoqcK4FxI/AAAAAAAAA4M/PIn6xwy3rso/s640/IMG_5670.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> Happy Autumn!</b></span></div><span id="goog_72320094"></span><span id="goog_72320095"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-89344983559631438552011-10-19T16:14:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.433-08:00A Letter to My Body<div style="text-align: center;">This month's theme for the Feminist Fashion Bloggers network is youth and aging. Check out the round up of posts <a href="http://feministfashionbloggers.blogspot.com/2011/10/roundup-youth-and-ageing.html">here</a>. This post is also part of the <a href="http://www.now.org/news/blogs/index.php/sayit/2011/10/19/lybd-blog-carnival-posts">2011 Love Your Body Day Blog Carnival</a>. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">For this month's FFB post and in honor of Love Your Body Day, I wrote a letter to my body. Though I certainly harbored many more body image issues as a teen, I would be lying if I said that as a young adult all of these insecurities have been magically resolved. As it turns out, feminists, regardless of our age, are not immune to our society's body fascism. We are still socialized and immersed in this culture, and though we often consciously resist the forces that encourages us to strive for a narrow image of feminine perfection, remaining body positive is a struggle. It occurred to me that for all of the time I spend on my appearance through my love of fashion and cosmetics, I still often neglect my body. I get so consumed with the trappings and accessories and products that I use to decorate my body that I forget to appreciate my body for what it is. This is a first step in getting back in touch with my body in order to cultivate a positive self-image and loving relationship with my self. </div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p92Gyh68SiU/Tp9QVeZxk9I/AAAAAAAAAzE/ZtxIMaoqSoQ/s1600/4590_3516_large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p92Gyh68SiU/Tp9QVeZxk9I/AAAAAAAAAzE/ZtxIMaoqSoQ/s640/4590_3516_large.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Dear Body,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">You must think I'm a bit of a hypocrite, huh? <i>Feminism this, love your body that, blah blah blah.</i> Is that what I sound like? I know we haven't exactly been on speaking terms for a while, but I want to make amends. Besides...we are kinda stuck with each other for a while. Remember when I was little? I wasn't afraid of you then, wasn't ashamed of you. What happened? I grew up. I grew up, and suddenly thousands of fingers were poking and prodding me, thousands of eyes judging me. I lost you in a whirlwind of airbrushed images, diet pills, waif-like models, infantalizing pictures of women, cruel classmates, calorie counting, trickster mirrors. And since then, I haven't always been so nice to you. I've ignored you, yet I've paid excruciating attention to your flaws. I've pushed and pulled, cut and carved you, tried to make you something you're not. I've starved you, beat you, cursed you, abandoned you. At times, I have been outright disgusted by you. Over the years, however, I have grown tired of hating you. It has sapped me of too much time, too much money, too much emotional, physical, and spiritual effort. Will and force were not enough to change you, so I figured I might as well invest my energies into learning to live with you. There is something I've been meaning to say to you for a long time. I'm sorry. I am so sorry. You have tolerated all the abuse I have put you through: the loathing, the neglect, the unrealistic expectations, the drastic measures to change you. Despite it all, you still serve me well. Because of you, I have powerful legs that carry me through the day, a heart that keep me living and loving, a brain that is eager to learn, and an ass that looks damn fine in a pair of jeans. I am still discovering your power of your limbs, the beauty of your curves. So why don't we give it another shot? What do you say...can we be friends again? </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sincerely,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Krystal </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We live in a cultural climate that actively discourages women from loving their bodies. Beauty, fashion, and plastic surgery industries create (in part) and cash in on our insecurities. Moreover, systemic inequalities are naturalized and normalized when those who are oppressed become complicit participants in the very institutions and ideologies that subjugate them. Thus, loving yourself is an intensely political act. Loving yourself is an important form of activism and resistance. I encourage everyone to say 'thanks' to your body today in whatever way is meaningful for you, whether that is writing a letter or reconciliation to your body, taking a bubble bath, doing some yoga, indulging in some ice cream, or whatever else.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-31788823014974311912011-10-18T03:00:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.535-08:00My 'Finish It Up' Face<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IouUTtaqA38/TpyPNCu_7II/AAAAAAAAAy8/5J-F3wR_v6A/s1600/IMG_5704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IouUTtaqA38/TpyPNCu_7II/AAAAAAAAAy8/5J-F3wR_v6A/s640/IMG_5704.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Several of my makeup items are approaching the end of their lifespans. I have been so eager to finish these products up that I have been trying to use them as much as possible. In conjunction with one another, these nearly empty products make for a relaxed and simple look for days when I don't have anything I want to get dolled up for. Look forward to seeking some of these products in October's Sayonara Products post!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>'Finish it Up' Product Status</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Clockwise, starting in upper left corner)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>LORAC Perfectly Lit Oil Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight</i>- This highlighter has also doubled as a sheer champagne eyeshadow. Nearly scraping the pan on this one!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Urban Decay 27/7 Glide-On Pencil in Zero</i>- Look at that little nub! I am on my last sharpening.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Urban Decay Primer Potion in Original</i>- This sample size has maybe two uses left.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Tarina Tarantino Gem Gloss in Disco Nap- </i>Give me a week or two of only using this gloss, and it is sayonara!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>e.l.f. Mineral Lipstick in Runway Pink</i>- The bullet is totally broken, but I like the color too much to just toss it and I rarely use the lipsticks I depot. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Bronzer from the Sephora Sculpting Disk</i>- While the highlighter remains virtually untouched, the setting powder is completely gone and the bronzer is disappearing fast!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm</i>- The sphere is nearly flat!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>NARS Orgasm Illuminator</i>- After what feels like 1,000 years, this deluxe sample is almost out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Revlon PhotoReady Concealer</i>- I am literally scraping at the tube!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Tarte Cheek Tint in Glam- </i>This one has a fair bit of life yet, but it is getting kinda old and I need to use it up!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_UBnrM7JKE/TpyPMqdxWzI/AAAAAAAAAy0/SvyBnc_KY1o/s1600/IMG_5452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_UBnrM7JKE/TpyPMqdxWzI/AAAAAAAAAy0/SvyBnc_KY1o/s640/IMG_5452.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Unmentioned products used to create this look:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon ColorStay Foundation in Warm Golden</div><div style="text-align: center;">Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes Mascara in Black</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Are any of your products on their last leg? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">How do you commit to using up a product?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-37595150743030811412011-10-17T06:52:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.635-08:00Fierce Femme FOTD & OOTD: Taking on Challenges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_bCJWyTBmDw/TpwtFPInc9I/AAAAAAAAAys/Bd_sxVoTHJ8/s1600/IMG_5507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_bCJWyTBmDw/TpwtFPInc9I/AAAAAAAAAys/Bd_sxVoTHJ8/s640/IMG_5507.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My classes have been kicking my butt lately, and last week I was feeling less than confident in my capabilities. After a few days of self pity, I channeled my inner power femme and dressed to the nines for my most difficult class. While it may sound like a silly method to some, outfitting myself in my favorite duds and completing the look with fierce hair and makeup actually does help me get into the right mindset to take on challenges. Here is what I wore that day: neutral yet luminous makeup, a teased high bun, and a killer outfit (if I do say so myself!). Oh, and it worked- I totally rocked that class :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydVbaJT7sQA/TpwtEmnHVNI/AAAAAAAAAyk/7Ya37wtiLPk/s1600/IMG_5490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydVbaJT7sQA/TpwtEmnHVNI/AAAAAAAAAyk/7Ya37wtiLPk/s640/IMG_5490.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Face</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Revlon ColorStay in Warm Golden</div><div style="text-align: center;">mixed w/ Sephora Perfecting Tinted Moisturizer and NARS Orgasm Illuminator</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bronzer from Sephora Sculpting Disk </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cheeks</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Tarte Amazonian Clay Long Wearing 12 Hr Blush in Exposed</div><div style="text-align: center;"> LORAC Perfectly Lit Oil Free Luminizing Powder in Spotlight</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Eyes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Urban Decay Primer Potion</div><div style="text-align: center;">NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Iced Mocha</div><div style="text-align: center;">UD Sidecar on lid (Naked Palette)</div><div style="text-align: center;">UD Smog in crease and lower last line (Naked Palette)</div><div style="text-align: center;">UD Virgin in inner corner and brow bone (Naked Palette)</div><div style="text-align: center;">UD 24/7 Gline-On Eyeliner in Zero on upper lash line and tight line</div><div style="text-align: center;">Loreal Voluminous Millions of Lashes in Black</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lips</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sephora Collection Lip Attitude in 19 Innocent Beige</div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="0" src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzMTg4NTc*OTU1MjQmcHQ9MTMxODg1NzU2MzYyNiZwPTU3OTAzMiZkPWdpY2tyLmNvbSZnPTEmbz*zODc4NjY2Mzhk/Yzk*ZGU*YTM1MDA4N2U4MzQ1YTY5OSZvZj*w.gif" style="height: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;" width="0" /><a href="http://gickr.com/" target="_blank" title="free graphic for myspace"><img alt="pimp myspace - Gickr" src="http://gickr.com/results4/anim_8835be0f-9113-6a44-4536-d7c93018f2bf.gif" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gickr.com/" target="_blank">Make your own animation</a><br /><br />Black Top- Wet Seal<br />Red Paper Bag Waist Skirt- Urban Outfitters<br />Leopard Tights- Urban Outfitters<br />Black Ankle Boots- DSW<br />Gold Chain Necklace- Thrifted<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">How do you prepare for a challenging day?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-44219715448079773542011-10-16T10:29:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.759-08:00Zoya Mirrors Collection- I'm a winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_V5tR0M2w6E/Tpr7bjGTbHI/AAAAAAAAAyM/nBD1l04dQO8/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_V5tR0M2w6E/Tpr7bjGTbHI/AAAAAAAAAyM/nBD1l04dQO8/s640/IMG_5584.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A few weeks ago, the lovely Kristine of <a href="http://beautyinnyc.blogspot.com/">Beauty in New York City</a> hosted a giveaway and I was the very lucky and grateful winner of the Zoya Mirrors Collection. This set of six gorgeous colors is perfect for Fall and I know these will be gracing my fingertips all season long, so keep an eye out for NOTDs. Thanks again Kristine! If you like to stay up to date on the latest launches and collections, Kristine's blog, <a href="http://beautyinnyc.blogspot.com/">Beauty in New York City</a>, is a great one to follow.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1dfUK1tZbsM/Tpr7cGlZhyI/AAAAAAAAAyU/8ETS7eHPvBk/s1600/IMG_5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1dfUK1tZbsM/Tpr7cGlZhyI/AAAAAAAAAyU/8ETS7eHPvBk/s640/IMG_5585.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> L-R: Nimue, Marina, Tao (can't wait to try this metallic grey!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqth5uzCu3U/Tpr7cfFYnvI/AAAAAAAAAyc/0H08pZBka9w/s1600/IMG_5587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqth5uzCu3U/Tpr7cfFYnvI/AAAAAAAAAyc/0H08pZBka9w/s640/IMG_5587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">L-R: Yara (olive green with gold shimmer? I'm dying), Neeka, Jem (plum with gold and magenta shimmer. That's what's up)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-67811418537092776462011-10-15T06:43:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.855-08:00MAC Paint Pot in Idyllic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WerJyCu0xIY/TpmJci3NNWI/AAAAAAAAAxc/Rhy1Nw8eGoo/s1600/IMG_5590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WerJyCu0xIY/TpmJci3NNWI/AAAAAAAAAxc/Rhy1Nw8eGoo/s640/IMG_5590.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">When MAC's Posh Paradise collection launched, I knew the paint pot in Idyllic, a coppery red, was definitely my kind of shade! I threw it into my online shopping cart, and then proceeded to think for a few days about my pending purchase. Of course, while I was so wisely mulling it over, the little bugger went out of stock. Panic ensues. I don't live near a retailer that sells MAC, and all of the online department stores were out of stock as well. As a last stitch effort I browsed Ebay, and thankfully uncovered a highly rated seller with Idyllic available for only a couple of bucks more than I would have paid for it at MAC. I have learned my lesson: although it is smart to think through purchases, if there is an item that you *know* you love and will use, by all means buy it! Especially if it is limited edition!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SvAw6-0b2UQ/TpmJdAWjQoI/AAAAAAAAAxk/mpfEQIeAjVc/s1600/IMG_5592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SvAw6-0b2UQ/TpmJdAWjQoI/AAAAAAAAAxk/mpfEQIeAjVc/s640/IMG_5592.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Having never used a paint pot before, I was surprised by how soft and creamy the product is- for some reason, I imagined the formula would be a bit harder. I don't have application down quite yet- using my finger was a little messy, and a brush took too long. <b>Any tips for a pain pot newbie?</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BwXiza9CLKM/TpmJdqIG1bI/AAAAAAAAAxs/cYDCUoZ903w/s1600/IMG_5597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BwXiza9CLKM/TpmJdqIG1bI/AAAAAAAAAxs/cYDCUoZ903w/s640/IMG_5597.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Idyllic looks very red toned in the pot, but once swatched or applied it transforms into more of a copper brown. It is an incredibly gorgeous shade that I will certainly make a strong appearance in my Fall rotation. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-al-fP_LFuIc/TpmMzE_Zt6I/AAAAAAAAAyE/0BVvDi9L1To/s1600/IMG_5599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-al-fP_LFuIc/TpmMzE_Zt6I/AAAAAAAAAyE/0BVvDi9L1To/s640/IMG_5599.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Did you pick up anything from Posh Paradise? </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Any paint pot tips for a newbie? </span></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-66486868747436801762011-10-14T03:00:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:10.950-08:00Review: Wet n Wild Glassy Glosses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCL8jpAWMMA/Tpd7QDCLbSI/AAAAAAAAAwU/UYKyjKO2PA8/s1600/IMG_4418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCL8jpAWMMA/Tpd7QDCLbSI/AAAAAAAAAwU/UYKyjKO2PA8/s640/IMG_4418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A while back the kind people at Wet n Wild sent me these Glassy Glosses for consideration. I believe this range was released in the summer, but there is certainly no reason why these gorgeous glosses can't be enjoyed all year round. These are available at most WnW retailers for <b>$2.99</b> a pop.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WV4rYPY1GmU/Tpd7QiDQYQI/AAAAAAAAAwc/3AFmv7oH6mE/s1600/IMG_4423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WV4rYPY1GmU/Tpd7QiDQYQI/AAAAAAAAAwc/3AFmv7oH6mE/s640/IMG_4423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <b>packaging </b>of these glosses is really up to personal preference. I know some people only like glosses with wand applicators, but I really adore the tubes with the slant applicators. These remind me of the Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush tubes at the fraction of the price. I like the tube packaging because I can just pop one in my pocket if need be.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These glosses have a tropical fruit <b>flavor</b>- think melon and pineapple. It isn't overwhelming, plastic-y, or sickly sweet like some glosses. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The three shades I have to share, which are all cleverly named, are <b>Mow the Glass, This Too Shall Glass, </b>and <b>Glass Confusion.</b> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UTmSjB6OaRc/Tpd7RKviBXI/AAAAAAAAAwk/WXfgwjgLaAk/s1600/IMG_4425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UTmSjB6OaRc/Tpd7RKviBXI/AAAAAAAAAwk/WXfgwjgLaAk/s640/IMG_4425.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uj7bbYdZyMw/Tpd7RnpKYuI/AAAAAAAAAws/ROg5sYVffts/s1600/IMG_4428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uj7bbYdZyMw/Tpd7RnpKYuI/AAAAAAAAAws/ROg5sYVffts/s640/IMG_4428.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> Mow the Glass</b> is a sheer melon coral gloss without shimmer or glitter. Applied, it leaves a very 'wet', juicy look to the lip. There is not a lot of color pay off here, but it does brighten up your lips a touch more than a simple clear gloss would. I love to layer this over coral lipsticks to add some high shine. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEiVRdx4deo/Tpd75sk8sfI/AAAAAAAAAxM/8LL4gLVBPfw/s1600/IMG_4430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEiVRdx4deo/Tpd75sk8sfI/AAAAAAAAAxM/8LL4gLVBPfw/s640/IMG_4430.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>This Too Shall Glass </b>is a dusty baby doll pink loaded with pink, gold, and silver shimmer. While the color is certainly not opaque, this will mute out your lips just a touch and give your kisser a light pink tint. Of the three glosses, this is my favorite to wear alone. It really compliments dark, dramatic eye looks.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GXhpkolIDsE/Tpd76HbueWI/AAAAAAAAAxU/GiFK_63AkZ0/s1600/IMG_4432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GXhpkolIDsE/Tpd76HbueWI/AAAAAAAAAxU/GiFK_63AkZ0/s640/IMG_4432.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Glass Confusion</b> is pink mauve with a touch of berry. Like This Too Shall Glass, it is jam packed with shimmer. As we move into Fall, I can see myself using this gloss more and more. As the darkest of the three glosses, this one has the greatest color payoff. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <b>formula </b>of these is pretty thick (they are called "gels" after all), but I think they have an almost creamy feel on the lips. I personally don't find them overly sticky. In fact, these are pretty moisturizing. I find they last for 2 hours or so before I feel the need to reapply. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As the range name suggests, the claim to fame for these glosses is that they are <b>glassy</b>- that means high shine and loads of shimmer. In this respect, I would say that these glosses live up to their name!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HCVrdP_ucL4/Tpd7TIGSDqI/AAAAAAAAAxE/5Qyu2sDJ7SA/s1600/IMG_4471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HCVrdP_ucL4/Tpd7TIGSDqI/AAAAAAAAAxE/5Qyu2sDJ7SA/s640/IMG_4471.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">L-R: Mow the Glass, This Too Shall Glass, Glass Confusion</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This product was sent to me for consideration by PR. I am not being paid or compensated for this review. My review, as always, represents my experience alone with the product and is 100% honest. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-59761712408302196452011-10-13T16:35:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:11.048-08:00Basic Essentials Haul<div style="text-align: center;">You may have noticed that I haven't been hauling a lot lately. While I am certainly not on a no-buy, I have somehow managed to rein in my impulse to spontaneously splurge. Now, I thoroughly research cosmetics before I open my pocket book and focus on using and appreciating what is currently in my collection. However, this lack of hauling means that I am using up products, makeup and otherswise, like a mad woman. The other day I discovered that my stock of everyday skincare and cosmetics essentials was depleted! Here is what I broght home from a quick trip to Target- no unessesary buys jumped into my basket either! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EzMrhnmG2w/Tpdu7Ys0RtI/AAAAAAAAAwM/X5dFiL62aB0/s1600/IMG_5334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EzMrhnmG2w/Tpdu7Ys0RtI/AAAAAAAAAwM/X5dFiL62aB0/s640/IMG_5334.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Up & Up Eye Makeup Remover</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This stuff is cheap but it gets the job done. After I finished up my last bottle of this I started using coconut oil to remove my eye makeup, but I ran out of that, too!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>St. Ives Skin Renew Collagen Elastin Lotion</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I started buying this product way back when it was sold in tubs as a face cream. It appears that the formula is still the same, though it is now marketed as a body lotion. This body lotion is not fragranced, sinks into the skin lightening fast, is incredibly hydrating, and is slightly firming. I feel like my skin is in good condition when I use this stuff, and I use it on both face and body. Bonus: it is very affordable, and my partner loves it, too!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Yes to Tomatoes Perfect Balance Facial Set</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b>This is my second time buying this set, though I have also bought sever of the items included individually. My main love from this kit is the Yes to Tomatoes facial lotion- oily and combo skinned babes, you need this in your life. The whole kit, which also includes a facial wash, mask, and headband, was on clearance for $13 (each product is usually around $10) so in the cart it went.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Goody Ouchless Hairties</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Basic necessity for long haired ladies. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Maybelline Dream Matte Powder</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have been reading rave reviews about this product for ages, so once I used up all of my setting powders I made sure to pick one up. A full review is coming soon, but as of now it is living up to reputation! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This past month I also finished up a tube of clear mascara, which I use to set my brows. My rationale in picking Great Lash was simply that it was the cheapest clear mascara I could find at Target. However, I am really glad I got this one because the wand is very small- perfect for sorting out my wild brows. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sonia Kashuk Bent Eyeliner Brush</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">My previous eyeliner brush was legit crap- but what can we expect for a no name $2 cheapo from the grocery store? I have now repurposed it as a nail art brush to make way for this Sonia Kashuk Bent Liner Brush. This has been working beautifully with cream liners for me, and makes winged liner effortless.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Despite this essentials haul, I am still on the market for a few basics! I am on the market for a good <b>primer, tinted moisturizer, and foundation</b> as well.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">High end or low end, what are your suggestions?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-18044538081699416932011-10-10T06:24:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:11.142-08:00Beautiful Brains: Tribal Nail Art, and thoughts on Columbus Day<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RZLUy10Dkcw/TpLglCPhXsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/xaM0mDRr_8g/s1600/IMG_5382.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Today is<b> Columbus Day</b>. <br />Although this probably isn't a national holiday most Americans get overly excited about (we still have work and school, after all), it saddens me that we dedicate a day to what is in fact a very dark part of our country's history and origins. I am hoping that by now you all know that the narratives surrounding Columbus Days are largely national myths that attempt to conceal the realities of physical and cultural genocide against indigenous populations. Of course, this history isn't typically taught to us in school. The education system would much rather teach children fairy tales about benevolent Indians and brave, friendly colonialists as they draw pictures of pilgrims and the Mayflower. Most Columbus Days, my mother kept me home from school because she cherishes her native ancestry and believes it is important that I learn the truth about what happened to her family's ancestors. I implore all Americans, regardless of whether or not you are personally connected to native communities in any way, to rethink Columbus Day.<br /><br />Check out last year's PSA to Reconsider Columbus Day:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/il5hwpdJMcg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />If you follow my blog, you might remember my verbose post on the 'going tribal' trend wherein I discussed cultural appropriation and commodification (check out that post <a href="http://powerfemme.blogspot.com/2011/06/ffb-im-indian-princessa-look-at-going.html">here</a>). I still stand behind every word written in that post, but I am also the first to admit that some things that fall under the 'going tribal' trend umbrella are pretty flippin' cute. Fringe boots? I want a pair so bad. Feather hair extensions? Some say they are overplayed, but I still think they are adorable. And this tribal nail art design I have seen floating around blogs? I had to recreate it. I don't pretend to know where the line is between fashion and offensive cultural appropriation, because that line is really subjective. More than anything, I think it is important we always consider the political and cultural implications of our fashion and beauty choices. As the activism around Reconsidering Columbus Day shows us, the politics surrounding tribal history and Indigenous cultural survival are contemporary issues. We can't pretend that our participation in the fashion and beauty industries is somehow disconnected from our social and historical context. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nUptcJqUsHg/TpLwHzLBG3I/AAAAAAAAAwI/OkjviiCj0Js/s1600/IMG_5382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nUptcJqUsHg/TpLwHzLBG3I/AAAAAAAAAwI/OkjviiCj0Js/s640/IMG_5382.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">With all of my political considerations and disclaimers said, this is my first attempt at the 'tribal' nail art design. Overall, I feel like it is a decent first go, although my rendition comes off a little bit 'East egg' to me. If you all are interested in a tutorial, let me know- I would be more than happy to post one the next time I recreate this design.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VIH2blSJHtg/TpLglZHPFwI/AAAAAAAAAv8/Cqo42Bi0JL8/s1600/IMG_5384.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VIH2blSJHtg/TpLglZHPFwI/AAAAAAAAAv8/Cqo42Bi0JL8/s640/IMG_5384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are the polishes I used for this look:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAQ2ruqSluQ/TpLjPZnCCSI/AAAAAAAAAwE/072Hd0DE7y8/s1600/IMG_5387.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAQ2ruqSluQ/TpLjPZnCCSI/AAAAAAAAAwE/072Hd0DE7y8/s640/IMG_5387.JPG" width="640" /></a> L-R:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Zoya Keko- 2 coats as base color</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Essie Turquoises & Caicos- stripes painted on with cheap eyeliner brush</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kiss Nail Art Polishes in White, Black, and Silver Glitter- to create details</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qbd-XsurAKQ/TpLgmIJS-nI/AAAAAAAAAwA/AiCITApVylI/s1600/IMG_5387.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you think of this design? Interested in a tutorial?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Any thoughts about the 'going tribal' trend or Columbus Day?</span></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3435182569850761217.post-18956743137383662712011-10-08T09:28:00.000-07:002012-01-20T00:26:11.240-08:00Urban Decay Liquid Liner in Gash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5Xfw_REexk/TpB2t3QwxOI/AAAAAAAAAvw/JhlZqaD0ElY/s1600/IMG_5390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5Xfw_REexk/TpB2t3QwxOI/AAAAAAAAAvw/JhlZqaD0ElY/s640/IMG_5390.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Red eye makeup is certainly not for everyone. However, I absolutely adore it. After scouring the web for a red liquid liner, I discovered Urban Decay's Liquid Liner in Gash. I have Gash as an eyeshadow and it is a phenomenal metallic red-copper shade, so I knew I had to have this liner. The only problem: this shade is discontinued, and it appears that UD is phasing out this whole range. Thankfully I was able to arrange a swap on Makeup Alley and this gem is finally in my possession. If you love red eyes (I'm lookin' at you, <a href="http://prettymaking.blogspot.com/">Mandy</a>!), then you need to hunt down this liner before it is officially no more!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nmKgk7B2ZSA/TpB267KoduI/AAAAAAAAAv0/WPgnoosVcOg/s1600/IMG_5391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nmKgk7B2ZSA/TpB267KoduI/AAAAAAAAAv0/WPgnoosVcOg/s320/IMG_5391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here it is in action. This seriously might be my favorite look ever.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Please ignore my insane eyebrows and the hairs stuck in my lashes!) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sAg52wiAzUI/TpB2ljMWP4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/T2i86rAdmW4/s1600/IMG_5295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sAg52wiAzUI/TpB2ljMWP4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/T2i86rAdmW4/s640/IMG_5295.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CxUaON74oEU/TpB2msTHaNI/AAAAAAAAAvk/R5mbzVtESmg/s1600/IMG_5301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CxUaON74oEU/TpB2msTHaNI/AAAAAAAAAvk/R5mbzVtESmg/s640/IMG_5301.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ghvxuFCGIc/TpB2nHwajaI/AAAAAAAAAvo/ktAC-uzovSM/s1600/IMG_5303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ghvxuFCGIc/TpB2nHwajaI/AAAAAAAAAvo/ktAC-uzovSM/s400/IMG_5303.JPG" width="373" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lkGGZ0cegLU/TpB2ta4gJcI/AAAAAAAAAvs/1S-P6Ks1swA/s1600/IMG_5304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="375" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lkGGZ0cegLU/TpB2ta4gJcI/AAAAAAAAAvs/1S-P6Ks1swA/s400/IMG_5304.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ocODAvwSD-M/TpB2mZ73a5I/AAAAAAAAAvg/CVxivgGQkvc/s1600/IMG_5296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ocODAvwSD-M/TpB2mZ73a5I/AAAAAAAAAvg/CVxivgGQkvc/s640/IMG_5296.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In case your'e wondering, here is a complete list of products used to acheive this look:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Face</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A combo of: Sephora Perfecting Tinted Moisturizer in medium Peach, Estee Lauder Double Wear in Dusk, and Tarte Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Revlon PhotoReady Concealer in Medium Light </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sephora Sculpting Disk Bronzer</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Cheeks</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tarte Amazonian Clay Long Wearing 12 Hour Blush in Exposed (lovelovelovelove)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MAC MSF in Pearl</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Lips</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Revlon ColorBurst lipstick in Soft Nude</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>How do you feel about red on the eyes? </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Anyone have any red shadow or liner recommendations for me?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com