I ordered the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Killer Cheekbones Set ($110) last week online. It’s a duo that includes the Filmstar Bronze and Glow along with the Powder and Sculpt Brush. It’s currently a Nordstrom Beauty Exclusive in the US and has been released as an early preview for the Charlotte Tilbury Beauty line. According to a Nordstrom Beauty Livechat I had earlier this morning, the entire line will launch online at Nordstrom.com around August 10th. Update on August 4th, per Charlotte Tilbury PR, the line will be available in the US around September 3rd.
The Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow (16 g/0.56 oz, made in Italy) comes in a luxurious rose gold colored compact. It has a warm bronze with a soft satiny shimmer glow. On my skin it acts like the perfect contouring powder. When it comes to contouring the face, I am a super minimalist. I have a roundish face without high cheekbones so any kind of contouring is me brushing on product in areas to create a fake one. I do like a good bronzer to sculpt the face and add warmth in a 3 shape motion around the edges of my face, but that’s typically the most I’ll do for contouring.
I find traditional matte/taupe contouring looks good in photos but in real life can look fake and too sharp on me (this is when artists do it on me or when I attempt it). The Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow however makes contouring goof-proof and super easy. The Sculpt/Bronzer side has enough warmth and color that it doesn’t make the skin look ashy and also isn’t too warm that it turns orangey. It has a soft satiny sheen that gives depth.
The Highlight/Glow side is a yellowish/gold pale champagne highlighter. Based on what it looks like in the pan and how it swatches on the arm, I was worried it would be overly frosty and sharp on my skin. On the face it glows. There is visible shimmer but on me it doesn’t look frosted and it doesn’t emphasize pores. Huge plus! If you have dewy skin, you may need to apply with a light hand. It’s very pigmented and adheres well to the skin. I like to dip the brush into the highlighter and then tap it to dust off excess. On the skin it’s a light golden color but not too yellow for my olive skin.
The Powder and Sculpt Brush is the full size version made of goat hair. It’s a smaller brush than what I’m typically used to for the face but it’s tapered for perfect contouring on the face. It’s well-made and the bristles pick up the product and blend well, but I don’t think it’s a must-have since I have so many other brushes and find that a regular blush brush can do the same. I do like the way it’s shaped for easy application. It places the product right along the cheeks in the right shape for a perfect contour.
Swatches, don’t let the frost/shimmer deter you, they apply much softer on the face:
Overall a huge thumbs up. I had high expectations for this because of raves about Charlotte Tilbury’s line but was worried it might be just another standard bronzer/highlighter/contour duo. After playing with this for several days I can say that I have found my perfect contouring duo. On my medium/tan skin it’s not quite bronzer level, but I suspect on fair to medium skins it will be suitable as a contour or bronzer depending how you apply and how much you layer on.
I love the soft silky texture of the powder. Brushes pick up just the right amount of product so you don’t have to swirl the brush in the pan a lot. It’s powdery but not too powdery. It blends very smoothly on the face and layers nicely. It’s on par with Edward Bess Daydream Bronzer (my holy grail) in the sense that it’s impossible to mess up because it’s super easy to apply and it’s very flattering on the skin.
I am really pleased with the set even though it seemed a bit pricey. However you do get a full sized bronzer-highlighter duo and the brush is the full size version that is well made. It’s a very high quality set that makes the price tag worth it for me. If you have a lot of brushes you may want to wait for the entire line to launch in August and just get the Filmstar Bronze and Glow. That being said the brush does make contouring easy for those who aren’t good at contouring (like myself). Even though this is designed for the face, I’ve found it wears well on the eyes as well.
The Chanel powder is limited-edition and gives a more glowy finish with a pinkish, peach and bronze champagne glow on me. For my skintone it’s definitely a highlighter while fair skinned readers have commented it appears darker and more bronzey on their skins.
The items in the Charlotte Tilbury will both be available for purchase in the US at a later date when the line officially launches. It’s also more of a contouring duo rather than a highlighter. The bronze/sculpt powder is beautifully warm and satiny with a natural glow, but you can probably skip the brush if you already own a good detail brush.
If you can get both eventually but only want to purchase one now, I would
recommend getting the Chanel since it’s limited-edition and I’ve found there’s nothing really like it. If you don’t need a contouring brush then I’d say wait for the line to launch later this fall, skip the brush and just opt for the Bronzer/Highlighter duo.
The Filmstar Killer Cheekbones Set is currently a Nordstrom Anniversary Beauty Exclusive and retails for $110. Online it looks like it’s on backorder. I can’t wait until the entire Charlotte Tilbury line launches in the US later this fall.
Have you tried this Filmstar Killer Cheekbones set or anything else from Charlotte Tilbury? What were your thoughts?
Dolce by Dolce & Gabbana (review) for something fresh, light and super feminine
Armani Eyes to Kill Stretch Mascara (favs here) for long-lasting mascara
Chanel Illusion d’Ombre in New Moon (swatches) for added sparkle and shimmer
Dior Addict Fluid Stick in Rose Tricheuse (swatches here) for a bright summery lip
Oribe Anti-Humidity Spray (mini) because I love the superfine mist it dispenses and also love the smell (I actually love the smell of all Oribe items)
Not beauty-related but I need to give a quick rave about two Nordstrom-Anniversary Sale items:
These Nike Legend Capris are amazing, they are super flattering for workout bottoms, they hold everything in but aren’t too tight, I might get a second pair because the price is so good
I live for Paige Denim (one of the few brands that fit me), I splurged on these Skyline Ankle Peg Skinny Jeans and am obsessed with them
I passed on all other clothing items even though there are some amazing items, I tend to get overwhelmed by all the options, if you have any raves or good finds I would greatly appreciate your suggestions
Some online beauty reads I’ve been loving this weekend:
Hourglass will open it’s first store this fall – Forbes
Christian Louboutin Beauté will launch new nail colors – Café Makeup
Bite Beauty Champagne Agave Lip Mask has a pretty pearly finish – Temptalia
Tatcha Ritual Discovery Kit looks like a great starter set – Cute and Mundane
More love for NARS Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows in Dione and Himalia – The Non-Blonde
Thanks to everyone who entered my Fresh Sugar Tulip Giveaway, the winner was randomly selected via the Rafflecopter widget. Lisa B. at email lbuller@p*****.com, check your inbox!
There are two Dior Addict Fluid Sticks that are Nordstrom Beauty Exclusives for their anniversary sale in Rose Tricheuse #669 and Mona Lisette #872 ($35 each). I picked up the lighter option Rose Tricheuse #669 which is a medium-bright coral with pink tones. I’ve been really happy with the Fluid Stick formula (see thoughts here and swatches here). These are highly pigmented lip colors that have a lipgloss formula that act more like a full-coverage lipstick.
The Nordstrom Beauty Exclusive shades are on the bright side for me but I’ve been trying more color for the lips, especially this summer. Rose Tricheuse #669 is a bright color but not fluorescent. Coverage is full like the other shades in the Fluid Stick formula but melds well with the lip. They have a slightly glossy sheen with a nice feel. I like that they don’t dry out the lips like some liquid lipsticks can.
Dior Rose Tricheuse #669 ($35) is a Nordstrom Beauty Exclusive for their 2014 Anniversary sale in the US but you can also find it at the Dior Beauty Boutique in Las Vegas, you can reach them at (702)-734-1102 (while their stock lasts).
New this fall from Hourglass is their 1.5 mm Mechanical Gel Liner in Obsidian ($45 for pack of 3 or $16 each). It’s their thinnest and softest waterproof eyeliner that comes in a twist up pencil. The product description:
The precision 1.5mm tip ensures effortless control, and allows for lining in between lashes
The unique formula, poured into a slim mechanical component, has the malleability, intensity and staying power of a traditional gel; no pot, no brush, no clean-up required
The waterproof, transfer-proof and long-lasting formula delivers extended wear
The supple, moisturizing formula glides on smoothly and dries quickly
Two clicks is all you need to line the eye, each advanced mechanical pencil lasts for approximately 17 to 20 uses
Only dispense product as needed – mechanical pencil does not retract
Free of phthalates, sulfates, talc and gluten, no animal testing
Ophthalmologist tested
I’ve been testing the new eyeliner this week in warm humid weather in Southern California and have been impressed with the lasting power. It holds up quite well throughout the day. I tested it on a few nights out and it didn’t bleed, smudge or fade. The tip is super tiny for precise application – the 2 click claim is true. You only need 2 clicks to dispense enough liner for each eye. I’m rarely able to apply eyeliner in a single stroke. The same applies with this one. I prefer to feather it along the lash line. I like that it doesn’t tug or pull. The formula is soft but not too soft. Some eyeliners can tug on the eye irritating my sensitive eyes. This one from Hourglass is gentle and I had no irritation.
The 1.5 mm Mechanical Gel Liner comes in one color right now, Obsidian, which is an intense black. It’s not quite as intense a color as you can get with some liquid liners, but for a pencil and gel formula, it’s still a true black. Many black eyeliners turn greyish on my skin or look ashy so I typically opt for colors like plum, brown or bronze. Hourglass Obsidian is a true rich black without looking harsh.
I’m still working on taking face photos, it’s harder than it looks. I’ve found it pretty difficult to get eye photos. Here’s a close up I took of my eye although the flash washes out everything:
A few comparisons here to some other black eyeliners. You can see how the Hourglass 1.5 mm tip is small compared to other eyeliners so it offers a truly precise line:
Thumbs up. I’m often skeptical of black eyeliners because I’m picky with the color and pigment. I can’t always pull of the color because it often looks harsh or ashy on my skin. The Hourglass 1.5 mm in Obsidian is good in color and the formula is very good. I find it well priced for a higher-end liner. I’ll have a round up post next week of my favorite black eyeliners.
The packaging is really well designed. It twists up easily and I love that there is no sharpening required to keep that super fine precise tip. It glides on easily, stays put and doesn’t smudge. It’s all I could want in an eyeliner. I hope Hourglass will expand the shade selection.
I love discovering new bloggers and fashion experts via Instagram. It’s one of my favorite places for inspiration, sneak peeks on what’s coming out soon, or to see a snapshot of other people’s lives. I love the stylized flat lays, outfit inspiration and learning about new places. Ten Instagrams I’m loving right now:
@frontrowbeautyblog for her keen eye for all things pretty, love her fashion sense
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@parisinfourmonths is a long-time favorite, this is the best account for dreamy pictures of Paris and all the beautiful places she travels to, love her fashion shoots too
I’ve been using the Clarisonic Aria for about 6 weeks now (first thoughts at 3 week mark here) and I am happy to report that it really works. In six weeks time with regular use my skin has visibly improved. I’ve been using it every other day one time per day in the evenings
although these are designed with brushes gentle enough for 2x per day
usage. Improvements I’ve seen:
Deep recurring pimples along the temple area and chin have disappeared
Acne scars have started to fade (they are still visible but I’m hopeful with the results so far)
Overall skin texture has improved, with smoother skin
Tiny bumps along the face that aren’t acne, red or pimples, but those small bumps that are clogged pores have started to disappear
I’ve tested with a variety of different cleansers. The Clarisonic cleanser minis I’ve tested proved to be too strong for my skin. After several days of consecutive use I started to develop tiny allergic bumps all over the face. I immediately stopped use and switched back to my go-to’s SK-II Facial Treatment Cleanser and Dior Purifying Foam Cleanser (the Dior is the only one my husband likes).
After evaluating all the different Clarisonic options (comparison chart) and using the Aria for several weeks I’m really happy with my decision. There are three speeds with the Aria. I started with the slowest speed but have been alternating between the default speed 2 and slower speed 1 (you can control the speed with the arrow buttons). I alternate depending on how sensitive my skin feels. There is a battery indicator that changes color to let you know when you need to recharge. I just recharged at the end of the 5 week mark (the light was red).
I like that it’s super easy to use, just wet the brush with warm water, apply cleanser straight to the brush and then start using it on the face.
I’m really thrilled with the way this has cleared up my skin. Last week though I made the big mistake of working out a couple times without taking my makeup off before hand so I have several break outs on spots that are healing. The skin isn’t broken so I can still use my Clarisonic without having it tear the skin or aggravate sensitive/tender areas. I’ve still been using the Sensitive Brush that this comes with and find it gentle enough for my sensitive skin. You can definitely feel the bristles though and while they are soft, they aren’t super soft. I suspect those with super sensitive skin will need a softer brush. My husband has tested the Clarisonic and really likes it. In a couple weeks I’m going to try a different brush. Based on recommendations from my original post, I want to try either the Deep Pore Brush Heads or Luxury Brush Heads.
Some overall thoughts based on my experience:
Even though this is a cleansing tool, you do need to start with makeup-free skin, if you use this with makeup on, you’ll get the brush dirty and it will be spreading your makeup around, start your routine by either removing makeup with a Cleansing Water (I like Caudalie or Koh Gen Do) or Cleansing Oil (I like MAC or Tatcha)
As with any skincare routine, if you have sensitive skin you shouldn’t do anything drastic, for this tool I was super nervous about how it would work with my skin, I eased into it by using it only a few times first and then increased usage according to my comfort level, I also started using it with my go-to cleansers
It will take time to see a difference, for the first 2 weeks I felt an improvement in texture but didn’t see any visible results, by Week 3 and now Week 6, I’ve seen a visible improvement, but depending on your skin conditions, it might take longer
Don’t use this on broken, raw or tender skin areas, I like that you can spot clean if you have specific areas you want to avoid
Dior Beauty has launched some new fall products for eyes, lips and nails:
5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette ($60) comes in five new shades in Bar 56, Carre Bleu 276, Pied De Poule 96, Trafalgar 876, Tutu 846
Rouge Dior Lipstick ($35) is available in five new colors with Carre D’Or 135, Bar 317, Rose Tutu 354, Rouge Massai 869 and Pied-de-Poule 977
Vernis Gel-Shine Nail Lacquer ($25) comes in four new cream finish shades in Pied de Poule 206, Rose Tutu 254, Bar 902 and Carre Bleu 769
Hourglass 1.5mm Mechanical Gel Eyeliner ($16 for single, $45 for set of 3) is the latest innovation from Hourglass with the thinnest waterproof gel liner that offers precision accuracy with a single stroke, available now at Hourglasscosmetics.com, at Sephora July 29, all other counters August 15
L’Occitane Frisson Verbena Collection ($12 to $55) has a range of fresh green and citrus body products perfect for summer, I’m in love with the Frisson Verbena Fresh Shower Gel and Hand Cream (thoughts on these soon)
Net-A-Porter Beautified Natural Nomad Pouch ($50) with Tata Harper Fortifying Body Oil and Lotion, Illia Sway Multistick, RGB Nail Polish, Remover Pad and Cuticle Oil, Rahua Volume Spray, Joya’s Composition No. 1 Perfume, LAFCO Hand Lotion
YSL Volupté Sheer Candy ($34) has launched in four new shades in Belle Cannelle #14, Rose Candy #15, Cherise Desir #16 and Fraise Ganache #17
Some deals and codes that have come through my inbox recently:
Benefit Cosmetics – Free US Standard Shipping on any order with code SUNSHIP
Bloomingdales – bRejuvinated Beauty Event Gift with Purchase offers (over 60 offers) through July 28 or while supplies last, plus 4 free beauty samples with any online order
Clinique – Three free summer saver minis Moisture Surge Face Spray, 7 Day Scrub Rinse-Off, Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel with any online Clinique purchase, 7/23 – 7/24 or while supplies last
L’Occitane – 12 Hour Beauty Break sale, you have 12 hours to shop for select products up to 50% off, online only July 23rd 10:00 AM EST to 10:00 PM EST
L’Occitane code offerings while supplies last:
Receive 3 Hand Creams + Adorable Pouch with any $25 Purchase with codeSHEAHANDS, valid through 7/29
Free 50ml Shea Cleansing Milk with any $30 Purchase with codeREFRESH, valid through 7/29
Free Angelica skincare duo of hydrating Toner and Cleansing gel with $45 purchase, codeANGELICA, valid through 7/29
Marc Jacobs Beauty – Free shipping on orders $50+, free mini Highliner in Blacquer with any $75+ order with code MINI, while supplies last
Macy’s – Over 150 online only gift with purchase deals from Clinique, Origins, Elizabeth Arden, Laura Mercier
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Gift With Purchase over 70 gifts with purchases available for the sale from Caudalie, YSL, Jo Malone, Jouer, Guerlain, Cle de Peau, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Chantecaille and more
Sephora – Online Limited Beauty Insider Offers with $25+ orders (one code per order) while supplies last:
Ole Henriksen’s 3 Little Wonders 7-Day Sampler with code WONDERS
Choose 1 of 3 Lip Minis from Too Faced, NARS or Sephora Collection with code LIPMINI
Fresh Soy Conditioning Eye Makeup Remover with code FRESHSOY
Deluxe sample of Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel with code EYELIFT
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Push-Up Liner 30-day Sample with code PUSHUP
Choose 1 of 3 Deluxe Sized Self-Tanners from Vita Liberata, St. Tropez, bareMinerals with code BRONZED
Early Access sample of Josie Maran Argan Black Oil Mascara Deluxe Sample for VIBs/Rouge, use code VIBJOSIE
Shu Uemura USA – A Midsummer’s Night Sample Set with any $50+ order, includes Tsuya Radiance Essense, Classic Cleansing Oil (20 ml), Anti-Oxi Deluxe Cleansing Oil (20 ml), Stage Performer Instant Glow (10 ml), Mini PK70C Gloss, use code UNWIND
If you have any good deals or codes, please share in the comments 🙂
P.S. Don’t forget to enter my Fresh Sugar Tulip Giveaway! There are up to four ways to enter and the entry period is almost up. I’ll be selecting the winner over the weekend and announce who won next week.