Thursday, October 15, 2015
Sometimes Life Hands You Lemons (blog update)
Since around April of this year I have been going nonstop trying to get things to fall into place in my career. This is why my blog has been so neglected. I have been struggling with some major decisions, coupled with many family medical issues, a demanding job, my freelance work on the side to make up for said demanding job not going they way it should have, and school. I decided late this summer to go for my real estate license and to go into real estate. I can say today that I finished my classes and there's finally an end in sight. That said I have a lot of catching up to do! I will have beauty product reviews, shopping hauls (including the story on how I finally got my Valentino Rockstud purse for 80% off, beauty and fashion deals, band interview/spotlights, and much much more! Thanks to all the new followers and to all the ones that have stuck it out through my hiatus!
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Yves Saint Laurent MASCARA VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS Review
I have been a member of influenster for quite some time, so when I was invited to participate and try out the new YSL mascara of course I jumped at the chance. If you aren't familiar with Influenster wow it works if you are invited and accepted to a campaign they send you over a free product to try.
Eye and lip products tend to be my favorite makeup items. I'm always on a quest to find a mascara that will really make my lashes look like I have my falsies on. The first time I tried this new product I was not very impressed. It wasn't bad but it wasn't great. With mascara sometimes I find I have to try and apply it in different ways in order for it to turn out the way I want.
So I tried a second time and the results were really great. If you like Diorshow you will probably really like this one as well. For me I'm a very glam makeup kinda girl for any nights out and even during the day when I wear makeup it's never the typical "natural" look. For my day looks I really like this mascara a lot. It curls, adds volume, and is not clumpy at all as long as I use my lash comb after applying. That also being said it sadly won't replace my false lashes. I'm not sure anything will ever keep me from my falsies especially for concerts and such. But as far as mascaras go this is in my top 3 now and I'm very picky.
Eye and lip products tend to be my favorite makeup items. I'm always on a quest to find a mascara that will really make my lashes look like I have my falsies on. The first time I tried this new product I was not very impressed. It wasn't bad but it wasn't great. With mascara sometimes I find I have to try and apply it in different ways in order for it to turn out the way I want.
So I tried a second time and the results were really great. If you like Diorshow you will probably really like this one as well. For me I'm a very glam makeup kinda girl for any nights out and even during the day when I wear makeup it's never the typical "natural" look. For my day looks I really like this mascara a lot. It curls, adds volume, and is not clumpy at all as long as I use my lash comb after applying. That also being said it sadly won't replace my false lashes. I'm not sure anything will ever keep me from my falsies especially for concerts and such. But as far as mascaras go this is in my top 3 now and I'm very picky.
I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.
Friday, April 3, 2015
Holy Tony Moly! Review
So I recently purchased a few Tony Moly items at Sephora. I
could not resist the adorable packaging alone(I know I know I work in marketing
so I should know better but good packaging definitely helps sell me on a
product, am I wrong dolls?) Unfortunately there are a few additional items that
I wanted to get like the eye calming stick that’s packed up like a panda, I
mean come on how freaking cute is that?!
What I did get my hands on was the Tony Moly Bbo Bbo Lip
balm in both the Honey and the Blueberry (pink lips and the red lips
containers). At $9 I didn’t think the price was terrible since I use a lot of
Fresh lip products and those are pretty expensive. This stuff is absolutely
awesome. I have super easy to chap lips and have to really take care of them or
they look and feel terrible. This stuff works. I didn’t find either to be the
better of the two, they both did the job. If my lips were chapped I put it on
at night and woke up to smooth lips. I didn’t have to keep using it constantly
like chapstick though its texture and scent make me want to use it more. I find
it to be better than my Fresh products that I spend 2x more on so you can bet I
will purchase these lip balms again.
I also purchased the Tony Moly Pocket Bunny Moist Mist but
haven’t used it enough to say it’s the best thing out there. The few times I
have used it I have liked it. It feels nice and not sticky and does make my
skin feel good. I think I will love this especially in the summer when I’m
working outdoor events and also when I travel for all the amazing road trips I
have set up. It’s definitely the cutest packaging for a facial mist I have ever
seen.
All of these products were purchased at Sephora if you guys are interested in trying them yourself!
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Sugarpill Eyeshadow palette, Sparkle baby and Cold Chemistry rock my world!
There are very few cosmetics items that get me super excited as easily as Sugarpill eyeshadow palettes do. I have all the other previous palettes and have loved them over the last year or so. I always love doings fun colorful looks for all the concerts I go to and Sugarpill has provided many of those. I find their shadows have more staying power that pretty much anything else out there (though I do love the makeup forever artist shadows, and use both together often)
So a little about each palette starting with Sparkle baby. This is a cute lighter palette with a hot pink (hotsy totsy) exception (I love using pinks, they really make green eyes pop). I absolutely love Kitten parade as well it's a peachy pink, that isn't' too warm for us cool toned ladies. The lighter colors are really great for blending and highlighting other looks as well. The pigmentation on the lighter colors is not as good as I find most of the other Sugarpill palettes to be.
Cold Chemistry has been on my wish list for quite some time. I tend to do 2 looks, Smokey darker eyes, or bright fun eyes. Cold chemistry has all the darks I use most. A beautiful purple (Elemental Chaos) a great shimmery grey/black (Soots & Stars) and one of the best shades for highlighting (Diamond Eyes). The green (Subterranean) is gorgeous as well, but I do not use a lot of greens typically. This is probably my new favorite palette. SUPER pigmented and absolutely perfect for a variety of looks. This one gets my vote of approval and would be the first palette I'd recommend someone new to Sugarpill to try.
So a little about each palette starting with Sparkle baby. This is a cute lighter palette with a hot pink (hotsy totsy) exception (I love using pinks, they really make green eyes pop). I absolutely love Kitten parade as well it's a peachy pink, that isn't' too warm for us cool toned ladies. The lighter colors are really great for blending and highlighting other looks as well. The pigmentation on the lighter colors is not as good as I find most of the other Sugarpill palettes to be.
Under bright light
Under normal light
Cold Chemistry has been on my wish list for quite some time. I tend to do 2 looks, Smokey darker eyes, or bright fun eyes. Cold chemistry has all the darks I use most. A beautiful purple (Elemental Chaos) a great shimmery grey/black (Soots & Stars) and one of the best shades for highlighting (Diamond Eyes). The green (Subterranean) is gorgeous as well, but I do not use a lot of greens typically. This is probably my new favorite palette. SUPER pigmented and absolutely perfect for a variety of looks. This one gets my vote of approval and would be the first palette I'd recommend someone new to Sugarpill to try.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Kaplan MD Perfect Pout Lip Mask and Lip Balm Duo
I've recently placed a number of Sephora orders and would like to share some reviews on which products I like and don't as I use them.
First up is the Kaplan MD kit. I've heard about this kit all over the internet and was very curious to see if it could deliver. I have issues with chapped lips and I'm constantly looking for products that can fix and prevent this issue. After reading about this product I knew I had to give is a shot.
The lip mask feels very tingly when I've used it. The first time it absorbed much slower than the last few times I've used it. It definitely plumps my lips, though the effect is temporary (lasts a few hours tops) After you use the mask you are supposed to wipe off the excess, then apply the balm.
The balm feels nice, no major smell to it in my opinion. It helps hydrate for sure, but I'm not sold that it would work nearly as good on its own.
Overall I really like the product but I'm not sure that it's the best thing out there yet (I like to try everything until something stands out and becomes the only product I want to use because it's so amazing) I would definitely use it prior to special occasions to plump up my lips a bit but to me that is the most noticeable difference between this product and others out there.
First up is the Kaplan MD kit. I've heard about this kit all over the internet and was very curious to see if it could deliver. I have issues with chapped lips and I'm constantly looking for products that can fix and prevent this issue. After reading about this product I knew I had to give is a shot.
The lip mask feels very tingly when I've used it. The first time it absorbed much slower than the last few times I've used it. It definitely plumps my lips, though the effect is temporary (lasts a few hours tops) After you use the mask you are supposed to wipe off the excess, then apply the balm.
The balm feels nice, no major smell to it in my opinion. It helps hydrate for sure, but I'm not sold that it would work nearly as good on its own.
Overall I really like the product but I'm not sure that it's the best thing out there yet (I like to try everything until something stands out and becomes the only product I want to use because it's so amazing) I would definitely use it prior to special occasions to plump up my lips a bit but to me that is the most noticeable difference between this product and others out there.
Monday, February 9, 2015
How to get High End items on a low end budget
Since starting my blog a few years ago I have completely changed the way I shopped. I have always loved pretty things and had champagne taste on a PBR budget. Over the last two years I have found a way to get some of the coveted items I always though were just outside of my reach. So today I will share with you some tricks and tips to get those items at a much more affordable price.
1. Online cashback! For some of you this obvious, but after talking to a lot of friends not everyone seems to know about it. I primarily use Mr. Rebates and Ebates. If you have a Discover Card you can go through Discover Deals and get up to 15% cashback at times. Right now there's 15% cashback at Saks Fifth Avenue and 10% cashback at Sephora through Discover. This may not seem like a lot but believe me it adds up quick! This is a good time to buy a pair of classic Louboutins that rarely (if ever) go on sale since it's like getting 15% off. I'll post links below for you to sign up for these sites if you aren't already taking advantage of them. There are many other cashback sites out there, these are the one's I have personally use and would recommend.
Ebates (referral link)
Mr.Rebates (referral link)
2. Know your brands. It helps knowing about the brands you like. For example Christian Louboutin shoes do go on sale. Twice a year actually, however these are the more seasonal colors and styles with some classic once in awhile. Chanel does the same. Knowing the sale cycles and products makes it much easier to find what you covet at a discounted price.
3. Shop around. Again some of you are saying I do this! Before I buy ANYTHING, I always Google search the item to make sure I'm getting the best price with the highest cashback possible!
4.Gift Card events. Neiman Marcus and Saks both offer events where if you buy a certain amount they will give you a gift card. Some brands are excluded, but a lot of high end brands like Alexander Wang, Alexander McQueen, Chloe, and many others are not. My first bag splurge was an Alexander Wang Rocco. I added a filler item to my cart to put the total over 1000. For making a purchase over 41000, I got a $300 gift card. I also got 10% cashback. So ultimately I ended up paying $600 for the purse, which often costs more even on sale. Sometimes depending on the timeframe of your purchase, you can get an even better deal. With most credit cards they offer a price rewind. If the item goes on sale within 60-90 days of purchase they will give you credit back for the difference. This has worked out for me a couple of times making the item cost even lower! So this is why it's always good to know your brands and know the sales cycle.
5. Shop more buy less. Instead of buying a ton of items that are a good deal or cheap, buy smart. If you buy something think am I really going to wear this often? Many people will tell you of cost per wear, this is definitely something people should think about. For example I'm more likely to wear a purse or sunglasses for a long time, therefore spending on a high quality item rather than a bunch of cheaper items I grow sick of makes sense. I also do not take the tags off items until I wear them. If they sit in my closet for more than 3 weeks they go back (unless they are out of season like buying a sweater during the summer or vice versa) Bottom line is don't buy things you will not wear no matter how great the price.
6.Places I shop for deals. Of course there's your TJ Maxx, Homegoods, Marshalls, Off Saks, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Nordstrom Rack(I've found Jimmy Coo's, Mui Mui, and many other designer items at prices between $75-$250, sometimes with the item being full price in store still!), and many other stores that offer high end items at lower prices but there are other places as well. I'm a big fan of Gilt.com they offer a lot of Alexander McQueen items at great prices. For example his iconic skull scarves. They are usually a decent percentage off to begin with, but Gilt also sends out promo codes for an additional 10-30% making them a steal! I have bought many items this way. Another good site is the Outnet.
7. Secondary Markets like eBay, consignment &thrift stores and Poshmark. I shop through a lot of secondhand stores on Instagram. You can follow their accounts and when new items come in they post them and you can call and purchase. This is great for items you may have missed out on. I eyed a particular Alexander McQueen bag but it sold out online at a price I just couldn't pay. A few months later a trusted seller on eBay posted the bag at a great price and now its mine. Poshmark can be great too. I sell on there and have done very well making some money (I usually put right back into my closet)
My Poshmark Closet
These are just a few of the many ways you can find Luxury items at a more affordable price!
Happy Shopping!
1. Online cashback! For some of you this obvious, but after talking to a lot of friends not everyone seems to know about it. I primarily use Mr. Rebates and Ebates. If you have a Discover Card you can go through Discover Deals and get up to 15% cashback at times. Right now there's 15% cashback at Saks Fifth Avenue and 10% cashback at Sephora through Discover. This may not seem like a lot but believe me it adds up quick! This is a good time to buy a pair of classic Louboutins that rarely (if ever) go on sale since it's like getting 15% off. I'll post links below for you to sign up for these sites if you aren't already taking advantage of them. There are many other cashback sites out there, these are the one's I have personally use and would recommend.
Ebates (referral link)
Mr.Rebates (referral link)
2. Know your brands. It helps knowing about the brands you like. For example Christian Louboutin shoes do go on sale. Twice a year actually, however these are the more seasonal colors and styles with some classic once in awhile. Chanel does the same. Knowing the sale cycles and products makes it much easier to find what you covet at a discounted price.
3. Shop around. Again some of you are saying I do this! Before I buy ANYTHING, I always Google search the item to make sure I'm getting the best price with the highest cashback possible!
4.Gift Card events. Neiman Marcus and Saks both offer events where if you buy a certain amount they will give you a gift card. Some brands are excluded, but a lot of high end brands like Alexander Wang, Alexander McQueen, Chloe, and many others are not. My first bag splurge was an Alexander Wang Rocco. I added a filler item to my cart to put the total over 1000. For making a purchase over 41000, I got a $300 gift card. I also got 10% cashback. So ultimately I ended up paying $600 for the purse, which often costs more even on sale. Sometimes depending on the timeframe of your purchase, you can get an even better deal. With most credit cards they offer a price rewind. If the item goes on sale within 60-90 days of purchase they will give you credit back for the difference. This has worked out for me a couple of times making the item cost even lower! So this is why it's always good to know your brands and know the sales cycle.
5. Shop more buy less. Instead of buying a ton of items that are a good deal or cheap, buy smart. If you buy something think am I really going to wear this often? Many people will tell you of cost per wear, this is definitely something people should think about. For example I'm more likely to wear a purse or sunglasses for a long time, therefore spending on a high quality item rather than a bunch of cheaper items I grow sick of makes sense. I also do not take the tags off items until I wear them. If they sit in my closet for more than 3 weeks they go back (unless they are out of season like buying a sweater during the summer or vice versa) Bottom line is don't buy things you will not wear no matter how great the price.
6.Places I shop for deals. Of course there's your TJ Maxx, Homegoods, Marshalls, Off Saks, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Nordstrom Rack(I've found Jimmy Coo's, Mui Mui, and many other designer items at prices between $75-$250, sometimes with the item being full price in store still!), and many other stores that offer high end items at lower prices but there are other places as well. I'm a big fan of Gilt.com they offer a lot of Alexander McQueen items at great prices. For example his iconic skull scarves. They are usually a decent percentage off to begin with, but Gilt also sends out promo codes for an additional 10-30% making them a steal! I have bought many items this way. Another good site is the Outnet.
7. Secondary Markets like eBay, consignment &thrift stores and Poshmark. I shop through a lot of secondhand stores on Instagram. You can follow their accounts and when new items come in they post them and you can call and purchase. This is great for items you may have missed out on. I eyed a particular Alexander McQueen bag but it sold out online at a price I just couldn't pay. A few months later a trusted seller on eBay posted the bag at a great price and now its mine. Poshmark can be great too. I sell on there and have done very well making some money (I usually put right back into my closet)
My Poshmark Closet
These are just a few of the many ways you can find Luxury items at a more affordable price!
Happy Shopping!
Thursday, February 5, 2015
New Year, New Look, New Topics
Welcome,
After a long break from Blogging I'm returning better than ever! I have spent the last 2 years working for a job I hated, and remodeling a house. Now I'm in a job I like that I'm not working 60 hours a week. I have almost all the renovations for the basement where I live done (got some awesome before and after pictures coming soon). In addition I have a new focus on the content I will feature. I have gotten back into my music adventures, photography, and interviews, there will be some of this on the blog in addition to the designer scores I get for less, beauty reviews, hauls, and other lifestyle content for you to enjoy. I may have a new found love for high end, however it will always be with a rock n roll twist.
Thanks for stopping by and new content coming this week!
After a long break from Blogging I'm returning better than ever! I have spent the last 2 years working for a job I hated, and remodeling a house. Now I'm in a job I like that I'm not working 60 hours a week. I have almost all the renovations for the basement where I live done (got some awesome before and after pictures coming soon). In addition I have a new focus on the content I will feature. I have gotten back into my music adventures, photography, and interviews, there will be some of this on the blog in addition to the designer scores I get for less, beauty reviews, hauls, and other lifestyle content for you to enjoy. I may have a new found love for high end, however it will always be with a rock n roll twist.
Thanks for stopping by and new content coming this week!
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