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Fenty Beauty Minis Haul

October 21, 2019

Fenty Beauty Minis

Holiday sets are starting to catch my eye and the cutest ones I’ve seen are from Fenty Beauty! As a huge lover of the Gloss Bomb I immediately added the Glossy Posse Mini Gloss Bomb Set to cart along with some other new holiday launches. I’ve actually accumulated a few previous launches from the line in mini sizes but never did a full review. I think minis are such a fun way to try product before committing to the full size. I thought I’d do a roundup of all the minis I’ve hauled to date from Fenty.

For holiday:

From the regular lineup:

Fenty Beauty Minis Holiday Picks

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Glossy Posse Mini Gloss Bomb Set

Fenty Glossy Posse Set Lip Gloss Holiday

My favorite out of all the minis is the holiday Glossy Posse Mini Gloss Bomb Set which has 5 mini lip glosses in the most beautiful luminous smooth shimmers. These have a smooth cushiony texture that isn’t sticky. They’re semi-thick depending on how much you put on but it’s comfortable and lasting power is pretty good for a gloss. They are scented with a sweet candy cherry like scent which might be hit or miss depending on how much you can tolerate sweet scents. There’s no detectable taste as far as I can tell. These make the lips look full and lush, I love layering on top of a liner like Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk, Pat McGrath Done Undone, MAC Boldly Bare, MAC Stripdown or Kevyn Aucoin Minimal. The glosses are on the sheer side but have enough color to show up. Colors include:

  • Confetti is an opalescent glow
  • Fu$$y is a soft pink shimmer
  • Pretty Please is a bright sheer hot pink
  • Cheeky is a gorgeous sheer bright orange coral
  • Hot Chocolit is a shimmering sheer chocolate

Fenty Glossy Posse Lip Gloss Set Holiday 2019 swatches

Fenty Glossy Posse Lip Gloss swatches

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Mini Body Lava Body Luminizer

Fenty Mini Body Lava Who Needs Clothes

The Body Lava Body Luminizer had mixed reviews online. It has been on my list to try in store but everytime I go in there are so many other things that manage to distract me I never remember to try it. I decided to try the mini and it comes in one color option Who Needs Clothes?! which is a sheer rose gold but on my skin is more golden. The pros are it smells so amazing and gives the skin a beautiful shimmery sheen. It is quite sparkly but it’s really beautiful. The downside is pretty much a deal breaker for me to wear which is that it has a tacky sticky finish that never dries down. I tried applying to places on the body I thought would not come in contact with other things but it’s virtually impossible to do so. If they could reformulate this to have a better dry down I think it would be amazing.

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Bomb Baby Mini Gloss and Highlighter Sets

Fenty Bomb Baby Sets

The first Bomb Baby Set has the classic Fenty Glow Gloss Bomb (universal warm rose shimmer) and 1/2 of one of their Killawatt Freestyle Highlighters in a mini called Hustla Baby (yellow champagne gold). There’s a new Bomb Baby 2 Mini Gloss and Highlighter Set with a new gloss shade called Sweet Mouth (pale pink shimmer) and Sand Castle (pulls silver metallic on me). Pigment on the highlighters is quite intense and they will show up on any skin tone with an almost blinding sheen. You can sheer it out for a more subtle glow but they are on the high shimmer side. I found both better on the eyes for my complexion. For the cheeks and my skin tone the Killawatt Highlighter in Afternoon Snack/Mo’ Honey is better suited for my coloring since it is deeper and not quite as contrasted in color with my skin.

Left is the Bomb Baby Set, right is Bomb Baby 2 Set:

Fenty Bomb Baby Sets swatches

Lip swatches:

Fenty Gloss Bomb Fenty Glow and Sweet Mouth

I do think both are excellent and easy to wear. They’ll be super fun to wear for the upcoming holiday season.

A look at Bomb Baby 2 on Eyes and Lips:

Fenty Bomb Baby 2 Sweet Mouth and Sand Castle

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Pro Filt’r Mini Instant Retouch Setting Powder

Fenty Mini Loose Powder Cashew

The Pro Filter Loose Powder is something that immediately popped on my radar when it launched but after swatching it in store it seemed a bit dry and chalky. It has that talc/silica feel which does a great job at blurring but if you have any dry patches it ends up making the skin look even more dry. I bought the mini in Cashew but really would have a better match with Banana but it wasn’t available in the mini. I’ve used the mini numerous times over the past few months and can’t get consistent results. If have a well moisturized and creamy base the powder looks ok. If I have any matte finish base or dry patches the powder just doesn’t set right with my skin. The super matte effect makes my skin looked tired in an unflattering way sometimes. I didn’t like it enough to investigate the larger size or other shades.

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Fly Baby Mini Eye Primer and Liner Set

Fenty Mini Liquid Liner and Eye Primer Set

The minis always get me at checkout in store. I picked up the Fly Baby Mini Eye Set as an impulse buy and have mixed feelings. The Flyliner Longwear Liquid Liner provides a super deep satiny black line. I love the packaging and the applicator for an easy to apply precise line. I found that it stays wet longer than other liquid liners I have so it transfers if I open my eyes or blink right after applying it. With a primer the product sets faster but I still have to keep my eyes semi-shut for at least a minute for it to dry completely otherwise it smudges and never really fully sets. The Eye Primer is ok – it has a semi-sticky feel when I blend it on the lids but it does help powder shadow adhere well. I don’t think it’s essential or holy grail material but it was nice to try and it does work to help shadow stay on the lids longer. After I tried it though I discovered I had already bought the full size months ago and completely forgot about it!

Fenty Minis

Overall I’ve had some hits and misses. I think my absolute favorites from the line are the Gloss Bomb lip glosses. I hope they will add the new minis in full sizes eventually because I love the formula and new colors. I hauled everything from Sephora.

Have you tried any of the new holiday minis yet or anything else from the line? What are your hits or misses?

 

 

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GWP Haircare Nordstrom

New Haircare Loves

October 7, 2019

Top Hair Care Loves Oribe, Olaplex and Christophe Robin

I’ve been trying some new things in haircare the past few months and have a roundup of my top picks right now. I really love trying new things and am always in the market for good hair masks or anti-frizz products to restore moisture and add shine. It’s been nearly a year since I’ve had color-treated hair and I’m currently in the process of trying to grow out my natural color. My haircare routine has changed since getting highlights and I’ve partnered with Nordstrom to share some of my top go-to picks right now. They carry most of the brands and products I use on a regular basis.

Anti Frizz and Heat Protectant Favorites

I also love shopping there because they have good Beauty Gift With Purchases year round. In my most recent haul I restocked on some of my favorite hair care items for the Nordstrom x SPACE.NK.apothecary gift (available while supplies last) which includes:

A cosmetics bag and deluxe samples of PHILIP B® Weightless Conditioning Water (2.5 oz.), R+Co Balloon Dry Volume Spray (1 oz.), Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo (0.9 oz.), Verso Hydration Serum (0.35 oz.), 111SKIN Space Defence Bright Eye Lift Gel (0.25 oz.), By Terry Blackstar Eyeshadow in Purpulyn Gem (0.04 oz.), Sunday Riley Good Genes Treatment (0.17 oz.), REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen (0.34 oz.), Kevyn Aucoin Beauty The Etherealist Skin Illuminating Foundation in Medium (0.18 oz.), Kat Burki Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream (0.23 oz.), Clark’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask (0.03 oz.), ILIA Soft Focus Finishing Powder (0.05 oz.), Rodial Pink Diamond Magic Gel Day Cream (0.3 oz.) and Derm Institute Antioxidant Hydration Gel Masque (2 sachets, 0.1 oz. each) with your $175 SPACE.NK.apothecary purchase. A $278 value. Online and in selected U.S. stores.*

Nordstrom Space NK October Beauty GWP

There are a lot more Beauty Gifts going on right now online. There’s a cute one from Lancome right now, also some good options for minis from Dior, Hourglass, Diptyque, Fresh and more. I always love the Fresh skincare minis.

My Go-To Shampoo and Conditioner

Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner

I’ve been on the hunt for a good shampoo and conditioner combination for what seems like AGES now. My hair is more prone to breakage with each highlight treatment and Florida water isn’t the best for all formulas. Many formulas are hard to rinse out so finding something that is hydrating but doesn’t weigh the hair down has been tricky. I’ve really loved Olaplex for some time but wanted to try something new. Some Oribe formulas have been hit or miss but I decided to re-try the Oribe Gold Lust Repair and Restore Shampoo and Conditioner and my hair loves them! I’m on my third bottle of both and think I need to buy the supersized versions. They both hydrate, add shine and make the hair soft. The formula rinses out nicely and doesn’t weigh my hair down.

Heat Protectant and Texturizer

Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

I blow dry my hair on a regular basis to smooth it and prevent frizz. Most of the time air drying isn’t the best for me. I’ve tried dozens of heat styling sprays and creams. There are a lot of great options out there but the one I keep going back to is the Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray. It doubles as a detangler for me and smooths out the hair. This is also lightweight and helps minimize frizz. I spray it on towel dried hair.

Even though I want to smooth out the hair, I also sometimes want more volume at the roots. The Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray is my favorite and a nice alternative to dry shampoo because it’s not white or powdery like dry shampoo formulas are.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

Smooth Blowout

Olaplex Styling Products

Olaplex No 6 Bond Smoother and No 7 Bonding Oil

I’ve been so eager to try everything that Olaplex launches. I bought the No. 6 Bond Smoother and No. 7 Bonding Oil the second they both launched. A little goes a long way for both.

The Bond Smoother is a white cream that is a leave-in styling cream that strengthens and moisturizes the hair to prepare for blow drying. I found it lightweight and it did work to fight frizz. It’s nice on my brittle hair and does protect from heat. For me I like this on damp hair.

The Bonding Oil is an even more lightweight product that’s ultra concentrated. It offers heat protection up to 450 degrees. Since I have thicker hair I found my damp hair soaked it up super fast. I prefer applying this on my blow-dried hair  to add shine and add more protection if I’m straightening it with a flat iron. It’s super tiny but a little drop goes a long way. The dispenser is designed so that only a tiny bit of product comes out with each drop.

Hydrating and Frizz Treatments

Christophe Robin Aloe Melting Mask and Anti-Frizz Milk

Last, my two latest discoveries from Christophe Robin are his new Anti-Frizz Rescue Milk with Shea Butter and the Hydrating Melting Mask with Aloe Vera. Both are 100% worth the splurge. For a no-frizz product his Anti-Frizz Rescue Milk is a nice effective product that glides through damp hair easily for a nice blow out. I’m normally not a fan of milky hair products because they can feel too thick or sticky. This one absorbs into the hair nicely without any sticky feel and for me it’s like the cream/milk version of the Oribe spray. I also love that it’s fragrance free.

The Hydrating Melting Mask is also quite phenomenal to add moisture to my ends in a lightweight way. I’m a fan of all of his aloe vera products – they have a really nice lightweight scent that’s calming and soothing. Color treatments for my hair have made it more tangle-prone after it’s wet. This one makes the tangles go away and allows a comb or brush to glide through more easily after I rinse it out.

Hair Care loves Oribe, Olaplex and Christophe

Hair Care Favorites from Nordstrom

I’m really happy to have rediscovered the Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner. My next purchase will be the large pump sizes of both. For a good hair mask I’ve been so pleased with the Christophe Robin Hydrating Melting Mask. I think the Oribe Royal Blowout Spray will forever be a go-to for me, but I almost like the Christophe Anti-Frizz Rescue Milk a little better right now.

If you’ve been in the market for some new hair care I hope this roundup helped you! I’d love to hear about your hair care loves right now. Does your routine stay the same year round or now that we’ve transitioned to fall do you switch things up?

You can find all my haul picks at Nordstrom. If you’re shopping online don’t forget to check out the Beauty Gift With Purchase page, it’s updated on a regular basis!

 

 

Many thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post. As always all opinions are my own.

 

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Hauls Sephora

Sephora Haul Picks

August 23, 2019

Sephora Haul Picks Charlotte Tilbury, Fenty, Inkey

I did a couple Sephora hauls online and in store and have my haul picks rounded up! If you’re a ROUGE or VIB Beauty Insider there is still time to shop the Summer Bonus Event through 8/27:

  • Rouge Members will receive 20% off purchases with code SUMMERSAVE
  • VIB Members will receive 15% off with code SUMMERSAVE

Everything I bought for makeup, skin care and hair care listed below! Plus a new makeup bag set I bought (not from Sephora but a lot of you have asked about it so there’s a sneak peek in this post):

 

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Base and Face Products

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer New (Sand), Fenty Hydrating Foundation, Charlotte Tilbury Powder

I received a couple press samples of the newly revamped Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer but the color they sent Bisque 3W1 seemed a little too dark. It is a very sheer formula and I felt like I could definitely pull it off, but I bought Sand 3N1 in store which seems to be a better match. I’ll keep you posted as I test it some more. It is improved and I like it a lot better than the original (I didn’t really love the original formula).

I also bought two shades of the Fenty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Longwear Foundation in 235 and 240. Even though sequentially 240 should be darker I felt like the warm tones of 235 make it look darker on my skin. I swatched both in store but the lighting isn’t always the best.

I stocked up on another of my holy grail pressed powder Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Finish in Shade 2. The little makeup bag is not from Sephora, but a recent buy. I’ve been getting requests to review the Cuyana Travel Set and compare it to The Daily Edited so I finally bought it. More thoughts to follow but I will say that I’m a little disappointed in the monogram font size. I opted for the small one but it seems too small, especially for the larger bag. The quality of the bag seems really good though.

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Makeup

Makeup Haul Picks Anastasia Dipbrow, Pat McGrath lip pencil, Fenty Highlighters Champagne

I bought the Anastasia Dipbrow Mini in Medium Brown as an impulse buy at checkout and can’t wait to try it out! The Pat McGrath Lip Pencil in Done Undone is a pencil I actually already had but forgot that I had it so now I have a backup. The Fenty Beauty Match Stix Shimmer Skinsticks launched in new shades and I seriously wanted all of them but picked two Champagne Heist (warm champagne) and Pink Lemonade (shimmery pink). These have a dry texture/finish vs the emollient feel of a cream stick so in my experience they last longer on the skin.

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Skin/Hair

Skincare Haul Picks Murad, Fresh, Inkey and Olaplex

For skin/hair I limited myself to a few select picks. I’ve had the worst summer with mosquito bites and my legs are covered in mini bruise-like scars from them. They normally go away with time but the swelling I had from the allergic reaction this season damaged my skin. I bought the Murad Acne Control Post-Acne Spot Lightening Gel to see if it will help and am also going to try the Kate Somerville D-Scar Serum treatment to see if it works.

I’ve been wanting to try the Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence for a while but didn’t want to buy the full size. It now comes in a mini so I bought one to try.

The Inkey List is a newer skincare brand that I’ve been really interested in for the past months. Andrew and I have been so impressed with the Salicylic Acid Cleanser we have already gone through two bottles. I hauled another one and think the entire line is priced really well. It’s worth looking into! They have some really interesting sets.

Both Andrew and I really like the Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Spot Treatment for a Salicylic Acid spot treatment. My holy grail from MAC was discontinued and we spent months searching for a good alternative that wouldn’t turn my skin red. This has 2% Salicylic Acid with a few other ingredients to soothe and absorb oil.

For hair I bought the Olaplex Bonding Oil which I’m really excited to try. I have a wish-list a mile long for shampoos I want to stock up on or try, but I just splurged on some Oribe (not at Sephora). I might restock on some Kerastase but am still debating whether or not to.

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Shower Gels

Favorite Shower Gels Fresh

These days I’ve been loving the Dove Body Wash Mousse in Rose for a budget-friendly option but nothing really compares to Fresh Shower Gels. I’ve been obsessed with these for years and wish they still had some of the original scents like their milk ones. These days I love the Fresh Life and Brown Sugar for a clean feel that doesn’t dry out the skin. I stocked up!

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That wraps up my Sephora haul! I’m doing another giveaway and will start them up again. This one is open internationally but you must be 18 years or older to qualify. I’ll pick one winner through the widget below.

  • To enter you must be a newsletter subscriber and enter through at least one of the other steps in the widget.
  • Giveaway will run through 8/27/2019 11:45 PM EST. I’ll pick ONE winner within 72 hours after the giveaway ends. The selected winner will be e-mailed by me directly and MUST reply to confirm from the same e-mail that was used to enter the giveaway, NO EXCEPTIONS. If a response is not received within 24 hours another winner will be selected.
  • Prize includes: full size Eve Lom Cleanser, full size Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Powder + Puff, Laura Mercier Lip Powder Palette in Paris, full size Caviar Eye Stick in Cobblestone, full size Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Mascara, mini Moroccanoil Treatment, mini Becca Backlight Priming Filter, mini Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Powder Shade 2, mini Charlotte Tilbury lipstick in Pillow Talk, mini Amika Soulfood Hair Mask.
  • Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Sephora

Top Makeup Staples to Splurge on During the Sephora Summer Bonus Event

August 21, 2019

Best Luxury Makeup To Splurge On Sephora Sale

Sephora has surprised us with a Summer Bonus Event for Rouge and VIB Members! The event is happening now through 8/27 to reward top tier Beauty Insiders with a summer bonus discount both in store and online (you can shop and save multiple times throughout the event). If you’re not already a member I highly recommend signing up! As a member you get access to a lot of perks such as discounts, early access to new launches, promotions, free makeovers and more.

  • Rouge Members will receive 20% off purchases with code SUMMERSAVE
  • VIB Members will receive 15% off with code SUMMERSAVE

There are so many great beauty brands available at Sephora and this is a great time to try some new things that have on your wishlist or to stock up on tried-and-true staples. I’ve partnered with them to round up my Top 20 Makeup Staples I’ve used all summer long. Quick note that there are some exclusions: “Not valid on The Ordinary products . Clients are limited to the purchase of one Dyson item, three Drunk Elephant items, five Morphe items, and three Tatcha items per SKU per transaction.”

Face / Base

Best Foundations Laura Mercier and Armani

Top Makeup Bases: NARS, Laura Mercier and Armani

My top picks:

  • Armani Luminous Silk Foundation has been a go-to, the color range matches my skin tone the best as they have good golden/olive tones. This is the most naturally radiant looking foundation I’ve tried and it holds up well even in warm weather.
  • Laura Mercier Flawless Fusion Foundation is the longest-wearing semi-matte finish base I’ve tried. It holds up the best in humidity, covers and smoothes, has great coverage, but my skin can still breathe with this one
  • NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer is forever going to be my holy grail. I love that the colors have been expanded, so if you felt like you couldn’t find a match with the original launch, you might want to check out the colors again. They’ve added a lot of new shades to fill in the gaps. It’s also available in a mini (in all colors)
  • Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Filter Powder in Shade 2 is my holy grail blurring and setting powder in one. I love that it’s in a compact so it’s easy to carry in your purse for touch ups.

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Lip Favorites Right Now

Favorite Summer Lip Oils and Balms

NARS Lip Oil, Afterglow Balm, Fenty Gloss, Pat McGrath, Charlotte Tilbury

I could go on forever about my favorite lip products. There are so many great formulas and finishes – practically something for everyone whether you want gloss, lipstick, a liquid, crayon, shimmer, matte, sheer, etc. The top ones I’ve had in rotation:

  • NARS Afterglow Lip Balm in Orgasm is a soft hydrating balm that gives the lips the perfect soft pink flush. It’s surpassed my love for the Dior Addict Lip Glow!
  • NARS Oil-Infused Lip Tints are also lovely for a beautiful lip oil. I think all the colors are really nice but I’m partial to Orgasm. It will swatch clear/sheer on your hand, but on the lips give it a minute and it will shift in color to a pretty pink. It’s what I’m wearing in this post!
  • Fenty Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow is what I’d call a universal soft rose. I think it’s a must for any skin tone. It has a cushiony non-sticky finish.
  • Pat McGrath LuxeTrance Lipsticks are the first products I splurged on from her line and it’s been love since the first swipe. These are ultra creamy and opaque. They aren’t weightless but the colors are so beautiful.
  • Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Pillow Talk is my go-to rose neutral. If you find it too brown/rose I’d recommend you try Super Cindy (more peach) instead.
  • Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk is the best everyday neutral that goes will all of my lip colors. I’ll pair this with the Fenty Glosses on top.

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Eye Favorites + Staples

Best Brow Pencil Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
Best Eye Makeup Staples for the Sephora Sale

What I love right now:

  • NARS Wanted Mini Eyeshadow Palette has been surprisingly versatile for such a small palette! It has the perfect mix for a soft rosy neutral eye look.
  • Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Sticks are still forever my favorites. I use these as eye bases for powder shadow. Rosegold and Copper are my most-used colors
  • Anastasia Brow Wiz is one of the best brow pencils I’ve ever tried. Since I got highlights last year I had to change my brow pencil color as my usual browns from Dior were a bit too dark. I alternate between Anastasia Medium Brown, Caramel and Taupe.
  • Tom Ford Fiber Brow Gel is the best brow gel to fill in and define the brow. I still love the Hourglass option for a cheaper alternative but I feel like the Tom Ford one fills in the gaps better.
  • Hourglass Scattered Light Eyeshadows count for 2 of my picks because I have two favorite colors: Ray and Burnish. I thought the original 5 were amazing but I’ve really been loving Burnish and Ray layered together.
  • Tom Ford Eye Defining Pen is the best liquid liner. It’s so expensive but out of all the ones I’ve tried I feel it’s truly worth the extra price because it doesn’t bleed, it dries fast when you apply, and it does not dry out as quickly as other brands do. I also love that it’s double sided with two sizes for the tips.

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Cheek Favorites

Natasha Denona Bloom and Blush Glow Palette

Natasha Denona Tan and Bronze Glow + Fenty Bronzer

Last but not least, the three cheek products I feel are extra special include:

  • Natasha Denona Bloom and Blush Glow has the prettiest mix of shades for the ultimate glow. It has a combination of powders and creams. I feel like this is such a unique palette!
  • Natasha Denona Tan and Bronze Glow is so good I’ve kept my backup so I won’t be without it once I use mine up. I think this has the most flattering mix of colors for highlight and bronzer for medium to medium dark skin.
  • Fenty Beauty Sun Stalk’r Instant Warmth Bronzer in Shady Biz is a really good natural matte bronzer. I love everything about from the packaging to formula. It has the perfect texture to blend easily and doesn’t darken on the skin once it sets.

Best Luxury Makeup Armani, Charlotte Tilbury, Laura Mercier and NARS

That wraps up my Top 20 Makeup Favorites! There are so many other things I also love but I tried to narrow down my recommendations list to the top 20.

The Sephora Summer Bonus Event is going to be for Rouge and VIB Members only this round, it runs through 8/27. I’m stocking up on some hair care and skin care favorites. I’ll probably buy a couple more of the Charlotte Tilbury pressed powders because I go through those frequently!

Shop the post:

 

 

Many thanks to Sephora for partnering to sponsor this post.

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Becca Nordstrom

Becca x Nordstrom Rose Glow Kit

August 2, 2019

Becca Nordstrom Rose Glow Set

The Becca Rose Glow Kit is a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusive this year ($48 for the sale, $90 value). For some reason it didn’t pop up online or in stores until a few weeks after the sale start date but I  bought one as soon as I saw it. It contains full sizes of Shimmering Skin Perfector in Spanish Rose Glow + Glow Gloss in Rose Quartz along with two mini complexion products of the Backlight Priming Filter (15 ml) and Hydra-Mist Set and Refresh Powder (2.5 g). You can buy the lip gloss and highlighter individually along with full sizes of the powder/primer. I think the Becca sets are a nice way to try product at a discounted price, especially with the minis, it’s nice to try before committing to the full size.

The Backlight Priming Filter is a luminous fluid highlighter I find a hybrid between a serum feel and cream. It has a lightweight texture and blends in seamlessly to the skin for a soft luminous glow. I used this a long time ago and went through a couple tubes. It’s a nice basic luminizer that works well under foundation. These days I’m more into the ones from Laura Mercier or Tatcha Silk Canvas.

Becca Backlight Priming Filter Mini

The Hydra-Mist Set and Refresh Powder is a cooling powder that has a very lightweight feel. It has a similar effect to the Prescriptives Magic Powder from many years ago, minus the iridescent glow. I really love this powder and it was a staple when I used it regularly. These days there are so many powders available I rotate more between the Laura Mercier and Hourglass ones when I use loose powder, but after rediscovering this one I plan on adding it back into my routine. It’s compatible with Florida weather!

Becca Hydra-Mist Set Refresh Powder Full vs Mini

The Shimmering Skin Perfector in Spanish Rose Glow was a limited-edition rosy pink that flashes a hint of violet. It’s borderline duochrome on my skin, but only because it feels slightly cooler-toned on my warm olive skin. I find it pretty unique compared to my other pink highlighters. I usually opt for warmer pinks but this is a nice change from my usual champagne or warmer colors. On my skin it’s definitely highlighter material, I think it goes well with blushes like MAC Powder Blush Breath of Plum, Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic in Pillow Talk or Sex on Fire. This was launched a while ago at select sites, you can find it right now individually at Becca and Beautylish.

Becca Spanish Rose Glow Highlighter

Swatch comparisons next to Rose Quartz, Lilac Geode, Bobbi Brown Highlighting Powders in Opal, Tawny Glow and Afternoon Glow. The Becca pulls more blue/cool toned on my face while the ones from Bobbi Brown are more on the neutral side.

Becca Spanish Rose Glow Swatches

The Glow Gloss in Rose Quartz is a pale soft cool light pink. It has some shimmer and feels smooth with a moderate tacky sticky texture. It’s not the smoothest gloss I’ve tried, but at the same time it’s not super sticky. I reviewed all the Becca Glow Glosses here. Back when I was a shade or a shade and a half lighter this was easier for me to wear alone. Right now it’s best when paired with a slightly deeper liner or lipstick (ie Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk or MAC Boldly Bare).

Becca Glow Gloss Rose Quartz

Becca Spanish Rose Glow and Rose Quartz swatches

Some swatch comparisons for the gloss in case you like the tone but find it too pale for your lips (like me right now). I’ve linked the reviews/swatches for the colors I have reviews on: Fenty Gloss Bomb in Fussy, By Terry Lip Expert in Baby Beige, Pat McGrath LUST Gloss in Love Potion, Laura Mercier Bare Baby, Becca Glow Gloss in Rose Quartz and Opal, MAC Lipglass in Cultured and All Things Magical, Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip in Hippy Shake, Patrick TA Lip Gloss in She’s an Influencer, NARS Lip Gloss in Color Me

Lip Gloss swatches

Look wearing the Becca Rose Glow Kit along with:

Becca Rose Glow Kit Spanish Rose Glow and Rose Quartz Makeup Look

Becca Nordstrom Rose Glow Set

Overall I like the look of Spanish Rose Glow but I don’t think it’s a must-have for me. The rest are repeats I already have but I’m gifting them away to family. All that said I think Spanish Rose Glow is pretty unique from what I’ve seen compared to other colors. If you want something a little less cool-toned or neutral/warm opt for any of the Bobbi Brown Highlighting powders.

You can find the Becca Rose Glow Kit now at Nordstrom while supplies last for the Anniversary Sale. Have you tried this color yet? What did you think? If not what’s your go-to pink highlighter of the moment?

This will be the last Nordstrom Beauty Exclusive I review this year. I apologize but most of the items I hauled sold out really quickly before I was able to post swatches and a review. I am currently working on testing the Pat McGrath foundation, new Chanel sunscreen and will be swatching the new NARS lipsticks!

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Hauls Nordstrom

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2019 Outfit + Shoe Haul

July 19, 2019

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2019 Haul Picks Tory Burch, Paige, Madewell

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is finally open to the public today! I have a roundup of my fashion and shoe picks that I hauled with a few try-on photos and hits or misses. I kept my fashion picks edited since most of the offerings are for pre-fall and fall season. I absolutely love the leather and faux leather jackets but living in Florida it’s only cold enough a handful of days to wear. Contrary to popular belief we do get some cold days, in the winter it hits around the 40s or 50s. I suppose it’s all relative since in the same time it’s much much colder elsewhere! I found some cute camisoles, picked a few longer sleeve tops and some jeans.

Full haul linked below:

 

Try On 1: J.Crew and Madewell

Nordstrom Jcrew Tippi Sweater Multistripe in Navy

I found a cute sweater from the sale from J.Crew! It’s called the Tippi Sweater in Multi-stripe in Navy Sapphire. I opted for a size up from my normal size in Small for a more relaxed look. On the left I tried on the Madewell 9-Inch Raw Hem Ankle Skinny Jeans (also on sale) which I really loved, but own a pair almost identical so I passed on these. On the right I have my Agolde Parker Shorts (not on sale) and my fav summer Sam Edelman Sandals (true to size, also not part of sale).

Outfit Try On 2: Leith and Madewell

Nordstrom Leith Camisole and Madewell Denim

Above I have on the Leith Side Drape Camisole for something red and drapey from the sale. I could have gone with an XS or S, I’m wearing the Small above and it’s what I bought. Denim is Madewell Ripped 10-Inch High Waist Crop Skinny Jeans which ran a little too short for my taste. I opted for a different pair from Paige (see below).

Outfit 3: Rag and Bone

Nordstrom Rag and Bone Anniversary Sale Try On

I really love all things Rag and Bone! I bought a pair of jeans from the sale a couple years ago and even with regular wear and washing they held up really well and don’t stretch out with wear. Above I’m wearing the Astrid Polka Dot Camisole in XS and the Raw Hem Ankle Skinny Jeans. I bought both!

Outfit 4: Treasure and Bond x Rag and Madewell

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Treasure and Bond

I love blue and white stripe shirts but finding one with a loose weave and good drape that doesn’t consume my petite frame is hard. My favorite ones are from Joie (super spendy) but this Treasure and Bond Dobby Stripe Boyfriend Top is a nice cheaper dupe. I find the line runs big and often have to wear XXS (as shown above). Also paired with the Madewell jeans I tried on in Outfit 1.

Try On 5: Blank NYC

Nordstrom Blank NYC Record Breaker Collarless Faux Leather Moto

Someday I will be live in a city again where I can wear leather jackets. I thought this Blank NYC Record Breaker Collarless Faux Leather Moto Jacket was so cute. I love the crop style and color. This is in an XS. I thought it was a steal at $64.90 but since it would not get much wear here I decided to pass. I did seriously consider it for fall for upcoming travel though!

Try On 6: Paige and Frame

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Paige and Frame Denim

I think the Nordstrom sale has the best designer jeans available! I buy a pair from Paige every year. Out of all the brands I think it’s the best and most flattering. On the left is the Paige Hoxton Ripped High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans (true to size but relaxed fit, I bought these in 26). On the right are the Frame Le Skinny Chew Hem Ankle Jeans (size 27), I also decided to buy these and love the length.

Shoe Picks: Tory Burch and Adidas

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Shoe Haul

I bought four pairs of shoes from the sale. One I’m undecided on. I love Tory Burch sandals and of course fell in love with the Everly T-Strap Sandals. I found they ran true to size and bought my usual 6.5 size in the black and red. I wasn’t going to buy the red but both Andrew and the sale associate said it looked good and that it was still neutral enough to not be crazy bright. Most of my shoes are black, tan or some kind of neutral! These are bold for me.

I thought the Everly Sandal was a good moderate heel sandal at 2.5 inches and bought them in Tan/Gold. I found my regular size 6.5 fit well but I’m undecided about these. I feel like my Ugg Kari Sandals (worn here) are a lot more comfortable and easier to wear. Granted the styles are completely different, but for a nice tan sandal I love the Uggs a lot more.

Adidas are new to me as I’ve been more into Nike and APL. I bought the Swift Run Sneakers (they run large, I sized down 2 sizes from my normal sneaker size) and think they’re really nice! Andrew got matching ones in the men’s and we both are really impressed with how stable they are for weight training. I am looking for other non-sale colors to haul this weekend.

Try on 7: Sunglasses

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2019 Burberry Sunglasses

I usually find at least one pair of sunglasses from the sale that I love. This season all the Kate Spade offerings were really similar to ones I already own. I loved these Burberry Check 57MM Polarized Gradient ones thinking they’d be a good dupe for the Tom Ford Lauren ones I’ve been eyeing for months. I did think they were super cute but they felt a little loose in the fit (I tried on several pairs to make sure). I decided to save for the Tom Ford ones or opt for another pair of Ray Bans.

Last but not least I did try on a bunch of workout fitness tops and bottoms. I found the vast majority of the tops either weren’t fitted well or ran super long. I did buy the Zella Zip Go To Hoodie because it’s lightweight and super soft! They didn’t have my size in store, it runs big, I bought both the nude and grey in XXS and love them. I had high hopes to find some good deals for fitness but no matter where I look, I always go to Lululemon for quality staples.

I hope you enjoyed this haul post! More beauty reviews to follow soon from the sale. I did place another online haul and bought a new Barefoot Dreams blanket which I think is the best thing I bought! Did you haul Anything yet?

 

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Charlotte Tilbury Nordstrom

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit + Easy Smokey Eye Palette

July 17, 2019

Charlotte Tilbury Nordstrom Beauty Exclusives

Charlotte Tilbury has two limited-edition sets for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I posted quick swatches here but have a more detailed look at both today. There’s a Pillow Talk Full Size Lip Kit ($60) and an Easy Smokey Eye Palette Mini ($55 for 6 shades). Both are beautiful and I highly recommend them!

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Trio and Easy Smokey Eye Palette

Above wearing the Charlotte Tilbury Easy Smokey Eye Palette, Pillow Talk Lip Kit (all 3 layered), Pillow Talk Cheek to Chic Blush, Armani Luminous Silk Foundation in Shade 7, camisole from Leith

Pillow Talk Lip Kit

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit Nordstrom

The Pillow Talk Lip Kit has three full size colors of her Lip Cheat Lip Liner, Matte Revolution Lipstick and a Lip Lustre Lip Gloss all in her cult classic shade Pillow Talk. I’ve been a huge fan of her lip pencil and lipstick! I’ve reviewed and featured them many times before and wear both often. Anytime I gift something to a close friend who’s new to luxury beauty or wants a good everyday lip, I give them the lipstick and gloss. It’s universally flattering in my opinion and although it will look different on different skin tones it’s easy to wear for a good everyday rose pink.

The Lip Lustre Gloss is currently only part of this set, I’m hoping it will launch separately eventually. The color matches the lipstick and liner in undertone, but on my skin it pulls about 1/2 to 1 shade lighter compared to the lipstick. It’s still a good neutral that doesn’t wash me out, but since I’m tan now with the summer sun, it’s a lighter nude pink. Coverage of this gloss is opaque full coverage with a high shine finish, yet does not feel thick. It has a slightly tacky feel like many glosses do, but it’s not the stickiest I’ve tried. If you can’t do traditional gloss the smoothest cushiony shines are still going to be the ones from Marc Jacobs or Pat McGrath.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit Nordstrom

I was 100% certain I’d find a dupe, I could not. Swatches of some neutrals I was able to dig out of my boxes while I still unpack below including:

Swatch comparisons neutral lip glosses

Easy Smokey Eye Palette

Charlotte Tilbury Easy Smokey Eye Palette Mini Nordstrom Review

The Easy Smokey Eye Palette has six colors in warm rose tones. There’s a mix of matte and shimmer and the pigment is phenomenal. It has an ivory shimmer, rose gold shimmer, matte rose, shimmery rose copper, matte warm terracotta, soft matte warm brown.

Charlotte Tilbury Easy Smokey Eye Palette Mini Nordstrom Review

I compared it to the Holiday 2018 Stars in Your Eyes here and I don’t think you need the one from Nordstrom if you already own the holiday version. They are not identical but are similar.

Charlotte Tilbury Nordstrom x6 Eye vs Holiday 2018 Palette

A few of you asked how this compares to her Pillow Talk Eyeshadow Quad reviewed here. I think I’m one of the few who did not like her Pillow Talk quad – the colors give me a horrible pink-eye look, it’s worse in real life! I was truly surprised to find the Nordstrom Easy Smokey Eye Palette works because it pulls warmer, but I think it’s the variation in undertone that makes it easier to wear. I love mini 6 pan palettes like this one because it has enough for a full eye look while still being compact and easy to store or travel with. Pigment of the Nordstrom version is a million times better too.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk vs Nordstrom Eye Palette

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Trio and Easy Smokey Eye Palette

Overall I think both are beautiful sets to own. Quality is great, colors are easy to wear, both are solid winners. You can find them available as part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2019 Beauty Exclusives offerings while they last. If you’re shopping online don’t forget to check out the Gift With Purchases page.

 

Have you tried either yet? What did you think?

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