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.

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!

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!

New Years Resolutions

So I'm a little far behind in my posts this month. The holidays have taken a major toll on my productivity. These things have inspired me to write this post.

My New Year's Resolutions

1. Make more time for the fun things in life. Since I have moved to Virginia and gotten a "real" job some of my passions have been come to a complete stop.

This being said that brings me to

2. Make it out to more concerts and shows. I usually went to at least 1 a week in Florida so I'm going to say I want to make it to at least 50 shows in 2013. I will post about my concert conquests on my other blog. If you care to follow my music and musician related ramblings it is http://amandasixx.blogspot.com  I have been absent from there for far too long but other than some killer pictures and set lists, Virginia hasn't given me much to write about.

3. Get back into interviewing bands and promoting up and coming artists. Growing up this was a huge part of my life. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know bands from a different perspective, even though sometimes it could come with huge let downs. I firmly believe 10 years from now my career will be more in this direction anyways :)

4. Get healthy. Most people want to lose weight and all power to them. Since living here I have been tired all too often, which kept me from going to shows and otherwise doing a lot of things. I have gained a little weight, but mostly i'm not in the same shape I used to be. That will change. I will also go back to my Florida eating habits. Since living up here I haven't been eating the right foods, often because I have "no time" to cook. Well this year I'll make the time. My goal is to start working out at least 3 days a week on my elliptical and work my way up to 5 days a week and also doing strength training.

5. Focus on what will make me happier. For me right now that means paying off my student loan since that is the main thing hindering me from packing up and moving out west. I have quite a few options too look at in the job arena and need to check them out.

6. Read more books, I used to read a lot but since I've moved here I haven't made time for this either. By the end of 2013 I want to have read 13 books.

7. Blog more often!

What are your resolutions?

Hope everyone has a fabulous New Years!

Black Friday Beauty Haul Part 1

My Black Friday shopping was just out of control this year.

I've bought so many products I've been lusting after, now everyday I get a new package on my doorstep full of goodies!

The first boxes are from Sephora and Coastal Scents.

I bought the Contour and Blush palette at Coastal scents are I'm happy to report they live up to my expectations, if you are looking for inexpensive products with staying power these are great. I also ordered a couple of brushes and I find the quality to be really good. Bonus they had the cutest tissue paper and I heart makeup stickers :)

From Sephora I got a ton of samples from the Kat Von D sample bag plus the usual samples.

My main stand outs are the 4 $10 deals I got.

The Josie Maran faces wipes might be my new favorite, I love her argan oil for my face. I have super sensitive skin lately and these wipes made it feel clean with no reaction. The nail wipes are definitely different from any others I have used. They take some scrubbing to get the polish off, but it doesn't feel harsh on my cuticles like regular remover does.

The Ole Heniksen set also is working out well for me. The truth serum is excellent and worth the set in itself. I have not really tried the other two products yet since I wanted to make sure I would not have a reaction to my new products first.

The Philosophy Purity face wash is a great gentle cleaner and for a full size bottle that retails for $26 I could not pass it up for $10.

The Boscia set is also intriguing. I liked the black mask when I tried it, I have yet to try the other products.

I did also buy the Pacifica Coconut Bronzing lotion, however it is going back. When I opened it up and looked at it, it's orange. I'm talking cheeto orange! I did however love the smell, after I checked Sephora's site it looks like they are phasing out Pacifica since there are hardly any products available.

Stay tuned for part 2 Black Friday Beauty Haul. I want to try most of the products before I blog about them. I also have a Black Friday haul of some really cool non-beauty products I picked up to. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

My picks for the Target + Neiman Marcus Collaboration

As someone who loves designer goods, but refuses to pay full price. The Target + Neiman Marcus Collection is a match made in heaven. Though for Target some of the prices are up there, you are getting designer quality goods which is worth the extra bucks, or at least I think so.

There are a few pieces that stand out to me and I will be on the prowl for Saturday December 1st.

1.Marc Jacobs Scarf

This is a classic piece that will go with any outfit and can be worn for years to come.

2. Brian Atwood Studded Gloves

I'm obsessed with studs, and these are just beautiful. Plus as a Florida transplanted in the DC area, I need winter accessories.

3. Rag & Bone Cardigan
It may be in the men's section, but this was made for me, and if you are petite head over to the boys section

4. Eddie Borgo Accent box
omg, it's spiked, adorable and would be perfect to hold things on my vanity...

5. Last but not least Robert Rodriguez dress.
It is so beautiful, only problem might be the top fitting me.But i'm determine to at least try.


What are your favorite pieces?

*Photos used are from Target.com

Hello Again :)

Wow, it has been a long time since I have been able to blog. This year has been a gigantic life test for me. I have moved again, into a house that needs ABSOLUTELY everything redone. From the floors, to the walls, to the bathrooms and kitchens, because my mom thinks she is the female Bob Villa and I am a good daughter  we are doing 90% of it ourselves. Between that and a promotion into a full-time position at one of the companies I was working with my hands have been tied!

Things are finally starting to settle down (even in the mist of my bathroom and kitchenette being redone as I type) so I can get back to the things I enjoy, blogging! I cannot wait to share some before and after pictures of my place with you and a ton of beauty and fashion revolutions as well.

Thanks to everyone that has stuck around, this hiatus will only make my content better!