Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Dior Make Up Workshop!

Hello everyone!

Sorry for no update in a while, these few weeks are getting really horrible (midterms, presentations, in-class written exams, and essays!!! I think my head is going to explode..).
In midst of this tornado of school work, Brenda & I attended a Dior Make Up Workshop! And what a cool experience... I would recommend anyone who wants to learn about make up & skin care basics to definitely try to find one of these to go to (ask your closest MA about it!). Basically, Brenda was told by her MA at Dior about this make up class and I tagged along =P It was a class from 4pm - 6pm in the Bay upstairs in a private meeting room. I wasn't quite sure about a purchase or deposit for this class (we didn't pay a deposit for this one =/), but all we did was purchase one product each and we got a cool little gift (which included a little make up bag with Capture Totale eye cream, a small sample bottle of J'adore, and a small sample of Dior Addict gloss)!



When we entered the room, there was a whole bunch of tables to sit at with a bunch of Dior testers sitting there waiting for us to try them! Also, a few pages of face charts per each person to write down what was used. They also had some nice wraps, coffee, tea, water and COOKIES (YUM!), how sweet~!! We had to wait for a few late people so we did indulge a bit in those free snacks.. (Come on! How can one deny free food?!??!)... When we actually got started, the "teacher"(Dior Rep. for Canada) basically outlined that she was going to go through: the importance of skin care, an easy, natural, everyday make up look, make up on the go, and how to make your make up more dramatic (if needed/wanted). Also, at each table was a Dior MA to help out with choosing colors and make up application. The teacher was extremely nice and answered all our questions with much detail, I wasn't really fond of the MA at our make up table though (she ignored me for the most part... hopefully you guys get a much more helpful one than I did...). I'll outline each section of the workshop and the wonderful tips we picked up!

Skincare:
Some we already knew, some we didn't! So here are the tips!
  • Always, always, ALWAYS wash your face with a good cleanser at the end of the day, even if you don't have make up on! Pollution and gunk from the air clog your pores during the day (ESPECIALLY if you live in the city, like us!!). For this demo, she used the Cleansing Gelee (which is good for oily/combo skin). For drier skin, the Cleansing Milk is suggested.
  • Toner is your best friend! Toner is like the conditioner to your shampoo, it rebalances the skin and also removes anything you missed with your cleanser. Also, if you find yourself to have oily skin, instead of washing your face in the morning (making sure you absolutely did wash your face the night before!) just put on your toner then follow up as regular with your serum(optional), and moisturizer. All products used in this part were from the HydrAction line.
  • When using serum or moisturizer, ONLY A PEA SIZED AMOUNT IS NEEDED (or one pump in terms of the serum or any other ones that contain pump packaging)! You just rub it between your finger tips and dab 3 spots: neck, cheeks, and your forehead. For the neck section, rub the moisturizer in a downwards motion. For the cheeks, you make 3 arcs (thing happy face smiles!) starting from the bottom of your face to the top of your cheeks. For your forehead, you just sweep the moisturizer in an upwards motion (like a fanning motion). If needed, dab a teeny bit on your nose (well she didn't mention this, but I find if you don't moisturize, it will only make your skin produce more oil later!!!).
  • When using eye cream, only use a SMALL amount (half the size of a pea or less!) and don't put it directly under your eye. What you actually want to do is outline the area around your eye following the bone (like an oval shape) around the eye. If you put it directly on there, your eyes will just be more puffy! Again, this one was from the HydrAction line.
  • HydrAction's Hydramask on your lips is wonderful for keeping your lips soft! It's so weird, but so true!! Just dab and rub some of the mask into your lips and they'll be super soft~!! You don't only have to use the Hydramask, it works with any hydrating mask (I tried it out with my Biotherm mask when I got home! MAKE SURE IT'S A HYDRATING MASK AND NOT A CLAY MASK OR ANYTHING). Of course, this isn't a replacement for your lip balm, but it's a nice treatment! I like putting the mask on my lips and then shoving lip balm on my lips for ultimate hydration; it works like a dream and makes my lips ultra smooth for lipgloss/lipstick application.
Now, I'm not a big fan of Dior's skincare since most things have SPF in it (which I am allergic to), but that mask tip was absolutely AMAZING. I wanted to buy it, but they sold out!! Brenda was lucky enough to snag the last tube of it! I'll be heading back to get it later though, I need a new mask anyways =P I ended up just buying the Cleansing Gelee because it was wonderful for removing make up! No water is needed for this one, all you have to do is rub it on in a circular motion and take it off with a cotton pad! Wonderful~

Make Up:
  • Less is more. Use only one pump of foundation (or a dime size amount) on the ENTIRE face and apply sparingly! If you apply it sheerly, you can go back and apply more in the areas you need a bit more help (ie. blemish spots, etc.) and also put concealer on areas that need EXTRA help (it helps because you end up using less concealer too!!). Apply starting on the left cheek with a foundation brush or sponge and blend outwards and repeat with other parts of the face. After, do the same with the other side but pause to admire the amazing difference foundation makes~! I ended up using Airflash spray on foundation in shade 200. With this one, I had Brenda spray a bit on my face and then I sprayed some on the back of my hand and went back to apply to any places I needed.
  • The perfect place to apply blush is 2 fingers away from your nose and 2 fingers away under your lower lash line. Apply in minimality, and anything extra can be used on the outer corners of your eyes to give them a bit of a nice glow. Cream blush is awesome for this, but powder works just as well too!! We used the Pro Cheeks blush in 545.
  • Tightlining your eyes can give your eyes more depth and make your lashes look like they are going for miles~! Don't know how to tightline? All you do is take a black pencil eye liner and line the part right under your upper lash line! It's the part right between your lashes and your eyeball! This one might take some practice and, yes, you will most likely tear from doing this, but with lots of practice it will be easy and gives your eyes a wonderful look! Make sure to use a waterproof forumla as well! We used the Waterproof Crayon Liner in Black.
  • Iconic is great as a base for your mascara. Since the Iconic is meant for curl and separation, it makes a great base to put on another mascara of choice! I used Blackout on top of the iconic and it looked awesome~! It's great for people who want to add more drama to their lashes.
Basically, the main idea is LESS IS MORE! This is the for simple, glowing, everyday look. Of course you can go more dramatic if you wish =]

That's all I remember for now...! No pictures right now T___T! We forgot our cameras!!! I must say, it was a pretty good result too. Be sure to look forward to our Halloween FOTD's though! They'll be coming up soon =D

Now, I must leave you guys! Brenda will continue this post with her P.O.V.! Hope you guys enjoyed these tips~

Much <3
- Christina

Hello darlings!

How has your week been as of current? Mine is more or less okay I suppose... anyways Christina has told you about the makeup workshop we went too, it was fun and interesting. Sadly though, I only really learned one or two things. Hmm I have long since turned my head from Dior makeup, mainly because of the price (I get products just as good if not better for less at MAC) but it they still do carry very nice high quality products. So I don't really have much to add onto Christina's post.

Tips from my previous addiction to Dior:
They're pretty basic but I first started makeup about a year and a half ago with Dior when a friend dragged me to a workshop and the MUA was the sweetest thing ever so I just stuck with it until I began getting into MAC about last winter. Off the top of my head this is all I can remember...

- When using Dior pencil liners or any eyeliners with wax in it go over it with a bit of black eyeshadow, this helps the eyeliner stay a bit longer because the when the wax melts it doesn't get all over your crease from blinking.

- Highlight the face and give the face a lift by using a highlighter colour from right above the apples of your cheeks to your forehead creating a C around your eye (C as in Christian Dior)

- If you're going to use your fingers, use your ring finger because it applies the least pressure (It's the weakest finger)

- If you're going to use Diorshow mascaras, layer them, they work better.

-Powder underneath the eye helps catch eyeshadow fallout and prevents mascara from smudging

- Make friends with your MA's you get little insider tips, heads-ups, and gifts.

That's all I have to share for today, I have some readings and and essay due Friday so I'm not quite sure if I'll get a post down by tomorrow but I want to start posting more often soon. I was going to do a Halloween FOTD but somehow I doubt that's going to happen.

-Blenda, like Splenda but sweeter!

Friday, October 24, 2008

RED RED RED!

Red is a classic colour, one that will always be the showstopper. Some of us will spend countless hours at the makeup counters looking for that perfect red lip colour, now I have many reds and the "perfect" red has yet to be found (well actually I have found it in the YSL heart necklace from last years holiday collection but it's in a palette and I want that colour by the tubes, TUBES I SAY!) but I'm getting closer, I can feeellll it.



I really REALLY need a new camera none of these look like they do in real life. Here are a few reds from different brands, I compared 15 red lip colours on my hand from high end to MAC because I don't believe in drugstore brands. For the high ends there was usually a dupe that was almost exact, goes to show you that high price doesn't always mean better.

Chanel Shanghai Red $30.00 CAD - My suggestion is to get MAC's Dubonet ($16.50 CAD), which is a SLIGHT bit more red but honestly it is only noticeable if you're picking it apart like I am. This is one of Chanel's best selling colours just like Dubonet is one of MAC's best selling amplified cremes... I think there is a connection! Another colour from Chanel that is really similar to this one is Lotus Rouge which is a bit darker and more dramatic if that's what you prefer. MAC's So Scarlet($16.50 CAD) and Rapturous mattene ($17.50 CAD) from the Cult of Cherry collection are also quite similar however they were limited (I believe Rapturous is still available on the MAC website)

Estee Lauder in Rich Red $32.00 CAD - More expensive then Chanel? Yes it's ridiculous to me but it is the first red lipstick I ever bought and it is a decent colour. This one is a bit more orange then all my other lipsticks, which I am not a fan of since I tend to go for blue based but overall it's a decent colour. Worth the $32.00 CAD however? No... not really.

Dior Addict High Shine in Runway Red $31.00 CAD - I don't consider this a red, just like I don't consider MAC's Adore it a red (In the new Adoring Carmine Red Lips set $42.00 CAD). So sheer it's a sheer pink. They're pretty much the same except the Dior packaging makes me feel like going around pulling out the lipstick pretending it's a light saber.


MAC in Russian Red $16.50 CAD - If you love Russian Red, I suggest checking "Red" she said out from MAC's holiday collection, to me when on the lips ("Red" she said is a little more pink when swatched and a slight bit darker) it is basically the same colour. However, I hate wearing mattes because by 3 pm I feel like my lips are so dry they're going to fall off but "Red" she said is an amplified *YAY* so it's a much more hydrating lipstick. Go check that lipstick out....STAT!


Dior Creme de Gloss in Rouge nectar $31.00 CAD - Shines like a gloss, looks like melted lipstick, and is hydrating! I love this colour it is the closest one to my YSL palette red and is just gorgeous, if you're not used to wearing lipsticks and prefer glosses I definitely suggest this because it's an amazing dramatic colour with all the benefits of a gloss! The price is a bit steep though so another option would probably be MAC Russian Red lipglass ($16.50 CAD) with a but of Desire Lipglass ($16.50 CAD).


MAC in New York Apple ($16.50 CAD) This is too pink for me to call a red (IMO) so I was very disappointed because I heard it was a good dupe of Queen's sin from last years MAC holiday which I missed *Cries* personally it is almost an exact dupe of Adore it from the red lip set this holiday. Nothing more about this colour, it's just not a red red that's all.

Dior addict gloss in red stockings ($31.00 CAD) - Sort of looks like Russian red($16.50 CAD) or Cult of Cherry(No longer available) lipglasses by MAC, it's a nice sheer hot pink when it fades though but personally I prefer lipglasses. Dior is nice but it doesn't have staying power...at all.


MAC viva glam 1 ($16.50 CAD) - Pretty classic matte red for a good cause, what more could a girl want?! If you're in a fork in the road in your red search and haven't tried this one and Russian red you should definitely take a peek =)


Future plans on getting - MAC's :Lady Danger, Ruby Woo, Brave Red, Fresh Moroccan, MAC red, Chili, Lady Bug. Estee Lauders: Ruby, Dior: Red Premier

What about you, what is your "perfect" red if you've found it? Any red you want to try?

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Birthday FOTD!

Yay! It's the first face of the day! Okay so I'm really sorry about me not posting and the lack of posts in general these pasts few weeks have been brutal but like it says in the profile we're busy people with assignments and tests up to our noses! So here is my really easy but dramatic birthday FOTD, that's right, my birthday.

(I used flash since in my room it is impossible not to so you can't see the blush and all the colours have been lightened...including my face.)



Eyes: Urban Decay Primer potion, Dior Earth Tones Palette LE *, MAC powerpoint E/L in Engraved, Lancome Cils XL booster, Diorshow Iconic
Face: MAC Pinch me blush (Though you can't see it >=( !)
Lips: MAC prep+prime lips, Benefit D'liner D'finer, Chanel Fantastic Plum L/S*

Possible substitutions for this look:
* Dior Earth Tones Palette = MAC colour forms palette LE, L'Oreal Wear Infinite E/S Quad in Landscape, MAC Humid E/S, MAC Artifact P/P, MAC Bamboo E/S
*Chanel Fantastic Plum L/S= MAC New York Apple L/S, MAC Plumful L/S, MAC Kirsh Mattene LE

Finish foundation, concealer, and setting powder and use brow gel to set the brows. Use UDPP on the lid and lightly on the brow bone, use dark khaki colour on lid using MAC 239 then apply dark rusty red colour on and slightly above crease using the same brush. Using MAC 252 apply highlight colour above crease and to brow bone, then use MAC 217 to blend DOWNWARDS from the highlight colour to the red then blend UPWARDS from the khaki colour to the red. Apply black pencil eyeliner on upper lid, mascara base, mascara, and blush (Apply kohl eyepencil to waterline if desired). Apply MAC prep + prime lips, line lips with lip liner, apply lipstick, put on a pair of smokin' stiletto's and look fabulous.



Now this isn't it because I know there are a few other things (Such as my MAC Manish eye palette) The boy says I'm like a child >_> but hey, I love makeup! The ones on the top are from my mom and dad, left hand side is from my hunny (Which we've seen), and right hand side is from Christina (<3).

My present to myself will be the Guerlain Midnight Butterfly Sublime Radiance Powder if someone else doesn't get it for me (Mainly the person I'm shopping with Saturday).


(All MAC : Rose + Red lips sets, Viva Glam cool Lips palette, Girl About Town L/S, Prep+Prime lips, Cool Heat LE E/S, Juxt E/S, Satellite Dreams E/S, Newly Minted E/S, Shimmer Moss E/S, Electra E/S)

I can't wait til Saturday I go shopping for more of my presents! YAY!

Anyways how has everyone been? Good I hope, stay tuned I'll definitely try to update more often and throw in more FOTD's it's just a little rough right now so maybe after next week (I have 4 papers due X_X) but I'll try to post this weekend. I hope you enjoy the rest of your week... OMG it's Thursday! YESSSS!!!

-Person with Thursdays off.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Gel Liners vs. Cream Liners

Hello everyone!

Long time no post for me! I apologize.. Last week few weeks I have a whole bunch of quizzes/midterms and still have a whole bunch to do -_-;; So very stressful...
Anyways, I thought I would do a quick post on some gel & cream liners~ (woo.. so many eye liner topics!! I will remind myself to switch it up in the next post!)

Anyways, here is some info on gel & cream liners and their differences. Enjoy~

I've always had problems with liquid and pencil eye liners.. so one day I decided to try gel liners and man... was it amazing!!

I will be reviewing liners from 4 different brands (2 gel, 2 cream; excuse me if any prices are wrong! My memory of them has left me...).

All colors are black =) I needed to keep it consistent!




The blacks look a bit shiny.. but I think that was due to the lights! Sorry about that guys, my room isn't the best place in the world to make pictures >_<~


THESE ARE NOT MEANT TO BE ON THE WATER LINE! They do not stay very well on there, and MAC specifically states that it is not safe used on the waterline (and I'd imagine others aren't either)!!!
So, both these liners are mean to be very intensely colored and are more dense than liquid liners. Also, they are supposed to have better saying power than that of liquid & pencil. For people who have problems with either of those 2 liners, I'd recommend giving these a try. They usually come in a pot which means these liners are meant to be used with an eye liner brush. I'll give some recommendations & tell you the different types of liner brushes.
Gel Liner: Gel-based eye liner. Creates a nice, clean line. Can be smudged for a smokey look but IMO, it doesn't work too well for smudging and smoking out for a smokey eye look.
Cream Liner: Cream-based eye liner. These ones are meant to be smudged for the smokey eye look. They are really creamy and go on a bit better than gel liners, but they are more prone to smudge under my eye and make me look like a raccoon!!

Gel Liners!
Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Liner - 1 Black Ink: The famous gel liner! Bobbi Brown is famous for this and I must say, this is wonderful stuff!! It's a bit more pricey, but the staying power and color are wonderful!! It doesn't give me raccoon eyes and it really is a true, rich black (instead of a dark gray, which I find to be a common outcome with a lot of black liners..). I get a perfect line every time with this stuff :) It is certainly one of my HG's. I haven't been able to use liquid or pencil liners very often after I tried this stuff. I own this in Mahogany Ink (Deep Brown) and, of course, Black Ink. I love them both~! The formula is a bit thicker/harder than other gel liners, but you still only need a teeny bit to create one full line! I think Black Ink is pretty intense, so I tend to wear the Mahogany Ink for more of an everyday look. You can find these at Holt Renfrew in Canada. I'd recommend this for people with oily lids and have trouble with eye liner smudging under their eyes!!
Price: $25 CAD
Staying Power: 5
Color Intensity(Black): 5
Color Variety: 4
There are a mlots for this liner but yet nothing that screams "different"! If you want something with color variety that is more bold/striking, this isn't the best choice. They have the standard black, many, many shades of brown and a few different colors (Violet, Indigo, Ivy Shimmer).

MAC Fluidline - Blacktrack: This is also a famous product from MAC. It is said to rival that of Bobbi Brown but IMO Bobbi Brown prevails! This texture of this is much smoother than Bobbi Brown's but, unfortunately, it smudges on me like crazy!!! It gives a smooth, rich black line that looks wonderful and perfect.. but after a few hours, I looked like a giant raccoon!! If I use primer, it's a BIT better but still smudges a bit..
Price: $18 CAD
Staying Power: 3.5
Color Intensity(Black): 5
Color Variety: 4
Lots of bold colors for this one! I absolutely loveeeeeeee Blue Peep~ it's so different, but I guess they don't sell it anymore??!! (It's not on the website!!!) Best make a trip down to a MAC counter or freestanding store to ask about it.. Honestly, it's such a wonderful color!! Macroviolet is also a really beautiful deep purple that I'd recommend.

Cream Liners!
Clinique - 02 True Black: This one comes with it's own brush!!! It's a tiny little brush that is really adorable, unfornately I didn't have a use for it since I love my MAC 263 brush. If you were looking for a one that is a reasonable price and also eliminates the factor of finding a brush, this is definitely worth a try! It really is a "true" black. It's very intense and the consistensy of this is amazingly smooth. Unfortunately, this one smudged on me too :( You get about the same results as the MAC fluidline~ I only own the True Black as of now..
Price: $16 CAD
Staying Power: 3.5
Color Intensity(Black): 5
Color Variety: 2
There's only 4 colors for this one.. True Black, Deep Brown, Smoke Grey, and Black Honey (a deep brown with a hint of reddish undertone). I'd recommend the Black Honey for anyone with a warm complexion, it looks beautiful~

Smashbox Cream Eye Liner - Caviar: This was my least favourite of all.. you need to get on A LOT of product for this to come out a true black.. in the picture, it took me two layers to get it to match the black of the other three liners and yet it STILL wasn't as black as the others! It smudges really easily.. but it's not completely horrible. I own the palette of cream liners because I wanted to give all the colors a try and, man, was this a horrible purchase. Of all 10 colors, I only really like 2 of them.... I would never recommend this one unless they were looking for a color other than black.
Price: $27 CAD
Staying Power: 3
Color Intensity(Black): 3
Color Variety: 4
This one has a WIDE variety of shades, but nothing is too intense. Lots of colours but they are all pretty subdued. Picasso(Midnight Blue), Midnight Purple, and Midnight Green really disappointed me... I was hoping for more color in them but was left unsatisfied. The Picaso (even with 2 layers!) still didn't strong and same with the Midnight Purple! Maybe if you shined an extremely bright light on them, I don't think you would even see the colours. Midnight green looked like a weird dark green-gray that looked almost black.. so disappointing -___-;
Here is a picture of the other colors in the Cream Eye Liner Palette (my favourites are Lava(Shimmery silver; great for smokey eyed looks) and Deep Bronze (beautiful shimmery bronze)):


Now... You're probaby wondering what kind of brush to use with these! You have a very good selection. I'll be using MAC & Bobbi Brown brushes as examples (but of course they aren't the only ones that have these kinds of brushes! Look around! You can find many such as Sephora, Quo (in Canada), Urban Decay, Benefit, etc. (Images taken from MAC & Bobbi Brown websites)


MAC 266

1) Angeled Eye liner Brush: My favourite of all to apply eyeliner! It is absolutely one of the easiest brushes to use! I recommend this one to beginners because it's so fool-proof and accurate! What you would be looking for a brush with stiff, short, angled top. My favourite is the 263 brush from MAC! It always gives me a perfect line and I can really get in between the little spaces in my lashes for a perfectly lined look. Another great one is MAC's 266 brush (which is slightly bigger than the 263).


MAC 209
2) Standard Eye liner Brush: Basically this brush looks like the brushes that are included in your bottle of liquid liner. If you are used to those, this one would be an easy one to switch into! It's also very easy to use even for beginners and would be my next recommendation next to the angled liner brush. I own the MAC 209 and use it regularly with gel/cream liners and also cake liners wet (which I only have one... haha). They usually come a bit thicker (MAC 209) and also very thin for ultimate precision (MAC 210).


MAC 212
3) Flat Definer Brush: This one is definitely my least favourite.. I wouldn't recommend these to beginners. Basically how you use these is to "push" the liner on. I've never found myself getting a good line with this. It's only good for shoving on some liner and smudging when doing a smokey eye.. otherwise I wouldn't use it. I own the MAC 212 and it's rarely use it...


Bobbi Brown Eye Liner Brush

4) Rounded Eye liner brush: The famous gel liner also comes with the famous liner brush. This one comes in the regular side and an ultra fine version for ultimate precision. This one is also extremely easy to use! They're about on the same level of easiness as the angled liner brush. I would also recommend this! Unfortunately, I still prefer my angled one since I find it a lot easier to do a wing with the angle.. This one is still a GREAT brush though! I have the Ultra Fine Eye Liner Brush from Quo and it works awesome (I'd still like to grab the Bobbi Brown Ultra Fine Eye Liner Brush one day.. Yumm~ I love BB). I don't use it as often but it is a wonderful, fool-proof brush as well :)

Well~ That's all I have to say for today!! I hope some people will try out some of these Gel/Cream liners because they are very awesome and easy to use~

I hope you enjoyed this review and please leave comments!!!
Have a good night everyone~

-Much <3
Christina

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Makeup brushes!

Now any good make-up addict should have a brush set, why? Don't ask, never question the brush set. Not only do they tug less on your skin then your fingers but they also help create amazing looks and who doesn't love looking amazing? But if you don't already own a brush set, or are in need of a new set then this holiday is the best time to start buying m'dears! It seems as though a lot of brands are making adorable brush sets this holiday! So here are just a few brush sets from different brands to help you decide.

(Image from Sephora.com)
The Makeup Artist Brush Belt
Now who doesn't love pulling a brush from a belt and feeling like a total super hero ready to make someone feel totally smokin' (Or even themselves!) ? I know I'd love that feeling, sadly the price is a little heavy for me at the moment (Darn the economy) and I lack a credit card (For good reason!). There is one without brushes in there for cheaper so if you have the brushes already then the belt would be nice to keep everything in order. However Sephora brand brushes are pretty good quality and this would be a sweet investment, total must have for a make-up artist wanna-be like me. Hey that rhymed!


(Image from Temptalia.com)(Limited Edition)
Though I can't find the link for this particular item it will probably be available at Nordstrom, The Bay, and Holt Renfrew. Most likely Holt Renfrew for us Canadians, eh. Dior normally has a brush set I believe, full sized too however it's a hundred something for like four brushes if I remember correctly. If luxury is your thang however this is totally the set for you. I personally like Dior brushes they are really good quality, but the fact that it's real mink fur just makes me uncomfortable using it.


(Images from Temptalia.com)
Lancome travel brush sets ($55.00 USD ea.)(Limited Edition)
Personally I'm not a fan of these, mainly because they look like MAC sets, except MAC looks nicer and are cheaper. Lancome brushes aren't my favorite but it looks as though they stepped up their game for these brushes, however it could just be photoshop.


(Image from MACcosmetics.com)
Adoring Carmine Brush Sets (In stores Oct 16th)(Limited edition)
Like last years Heirlooms and earlier this years Color forums MAC has come out with another brush set (As if we didn't see it coming). I love these brush sets, cute packaging and in my favorite colour! Sadly I bought all the sets last year and buying this one would be a little, well useless. This would be a nice little gift for anyone you know who is just getting into makeup, or perhaps you want a nice little set to travel with, maybe this will even be your main brush set but whatever the reason these sets are definitely a steal!

(Image from Sephora.com)
Too Faced Teddy Bear Hair brush set
Cruelty-free brush set that is oooohhhh sooo soft! But I'm going to cut this post a little short because this post is getting much longer then initially planned.


(Image from Urban Decay)
Big (Or little) Buddha brush set
Cruelty-free, soft, cool packaging.

Okay so I was going to post more but honestly, this post is long enough as it is and it's getting late and I still haven't started on my paper (The boy also looks tired so I want to turn the lights off). So if you're interested here are the links to the other sites:
The Body Shop
Quo (From Shoppers Drug Mart)
Shu Uemura
Juicy Couture (Limited Edition)
Kat Von D
Brush sets at Sephora (It's getting too late, so taking the lazy way out.)

-Sleepy and lazy Brenda

New Release: Red She Said Preview!

So anyone that wasn't planning to get any of the compacts this year because the packaging didn't meet their expectations, you might want to re-consider. I really wasn't planning to get the lip compact, but after seeing it, I just couldn't help myself! I bought the Viva Glam cool lips palette, I might get the warm as well though I don't like how both viva glams have the same colour while all the rest of the palettes are different. I got my Adoring Carmine sets (Thank you hunny <3!). This is it for me for now though I'm just going to wait for Little Darlings and get a few lipglasses, maybe some from the regular collection coming out with this one (I'm trying to restrain myself from buying another lip compact).



One thing I didn't like about the compact is that the design this year is a little off. Unlike last year where the brush stays in it's little compartment, in this one the brush can move around, which I think will be a bit of an issue in the future. I didn't get the lip sets last year(Which I highly regret) so I'm not sure if I'm the only one that didn't know the lipglasses would be minis. Otherwise I love this collection, my boyfriend told me that I was like a little kid opening a birthday present, which well I sort of was =P... two weeks early.




Swatches aren't great but give a rough idea, on the right hand side is rose and on the left is red. My camera is crap so it doesn't do justice to colours which I apologize for but trust me, these colours are FAB!

Anyways I have to go clean up and ready to go out of province tomorrow, what are your plans this (Canadian) Thanksgiving? Or the upcoming (United States) Thanksgiving in about a month?

-B-r-e-n-d-a whats' that spell?! Me.

Friday, October 10, 2008

New Release: Holday 2008 MAC

I'll all giddy for MAC this holiday, mainly because no other brand has caught my attention.

Price list: In stores October 16th
Passions of Red lip compacts (And viva glam lip compacts) $22.50 USD/ $27.00 CAD
Passions of Red eyeshadow compacts $38.00 USD/ $44.50 CAD
Adoring Carmine lip sets $34.50 USD/ $42.00 CAD
Adoring Carmine brush sets $49.50 USD/ $58.00 CAD
Little Darlings all products $29.50 USD/ $35.50 CAD (In stores Nov 6th)
Kids helping Kids cards $6.00 USD/ $8.00 CAD
Kids helping Kids gift packs $7.50 USD/ $10.00 CAD

There will also be a few lipglasses and mineral (Trio) eyeshadows and such. I didn't get the details on those items but they will be released come October 16th (In North America)

What are you planning to get? Me, the red and rose adoring carmine sets maybe one or two other items most likely from little darlings. I want a brush set but I bought them last year and I want that Guerlain spray! BTW has anyone seen the Estee Lauder holiday collection? Perfect for those lovely ladies (And gentlemen) who love their lipglosses and lipsticks and wouldn't mind stocking up for a cheaper price!

Ahh I have something to look forward to now! Oh god...I have so many papers due for the next month, university just has to ruin everything...

-Feelin festive Brenda
Source: Insider

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Holiday Release: Guerlain





Preeetaaayyy no? But darn the price is STEEP! Almost $200 CAD for the compact, almost $100 CAD for the spray. Yeah I debating the spray but damnnnn...

Guerlain’s Midnight Butterfly for Holiday 2008

  • Guerlain ‘Mysterious Butterfly’ Eyeshadow Palette
  • Guerlain Sublime Radiant Powder
  • Guerlain ‘Le 2 de Guerlain’ Mascara in Butterfly Sparkle
  • Guerlain ‘Kiss Kiss’ Gloss in Shimmering Pink 802 and Shimmering Violet 803
  • Guerlain ‘Meteorites Voyage’ Pressed Powder in Radiant Butterfly
  • Guerlain ‘KissKiss’ Lipstick in Sparkling White 514 and Strawberry Red 515

Currently available at selected Shoppers Drug Marts, available at The Bay in November.


And I thought paying $37 CAD for the kohl eyeliner was crazy (Great for waterline though a little messy but heck it has the cutest packaging ever.)

Anyways what's on your holiday wish list this year?

I'm actually quite disappointed this year (Though it may be a good thing for the ol'wallet), Dior failed to meet my expectations considering the jeweled pressed powder is totally not worth the $$$ I was expecting a pretty jewel to splurge on as always but that's not the case. Lancome is just....no for me, Chanel is pretty much just gold again, Bobbi brown is always neutral, Ysl is just ...meh, and I have no idea for estee lauder yet but I don't have very high hopes . This fall was a total blast for makeup though, gorgeous colours and palettes I'm still trying to recover from that!

So far it's only Guerlain, And MAC.
Everything else is permanent stuff, isn't that sad?

-The fantabulous makeup addict Brenda

Source: Temptalia

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Pencil eyeliner: The must-have of every makeup addict

I am always on the look-out for good eyeliners so I have accumulated a few and thrown away a few. So I decided hey why not do a review since I have a few free hours on my hands at the moment.



Estee Lauder automatic eye pencil duo in black:
This is possibly one of the worst eyeliners I have ever tried (Remember these are IMO) because not only does it smudge and get all over my crease and everything it just doesn't stay. I find myself having to layer eyeshadow over it just so it will stay but considering it still transfers on my crease and I don't know why I still bother using it but my mom bought it for me so... damn... just not a good product in general. However it does come with a replacement top instead of throwing the whole pen away once you're done but I'd still rather a recycling program. Plastic.
Rating:
Product : 0/5
Price: 2/5
Packaging: 3/5
Environmental: 2/5

Rimmel Extreme definition eye pencil duo in black and white:
Meh for a drugstore product I wasn't expecting much, not good for waterline I'll tell you that but it doesn't smudge anywhere near the extent of Estee Lauder so I'm okay with it. Staying power is okay for the price and I guess you get two colours so it's cool. Not a repeat buy for me though. Wood, plastic caps.
Rating:
Product: 2/5
Price: 4/5
Packaging: 1/5
Environmental: 0/5

The Body Shop eye definer shade white:
This one is just too hard to be a regular eyeliner and even when you do use it for there it doesn't stay long but not enough colour payoff or staying power for the waterline, it's quite sad for me actually...At least it doesn't smudge? Wood, metal lid.
Rating:
Product: 1/5
Price: 2/5
Packaging: 2/5
Environmental: 0/5

Dior crayon eyeliner waterproof in Brun intense:
Sadly another Dior product that failed me, this just doesn't have staying power which surprised me considering it's 'waterproof' it doesn't smudge much (If any) but still not worth the money. Damn it Dior stop ripping me off for these eyeliners, I trusted you, I really did. Wood, metal bits.
Rating:
Product: 3/5
Price: 1/5
Packaging: 2/5
Environmental: 0/5

Lancome le stylo waterproof in prune:
This is an okay eyeliner, I believe I paid $27 for it just so I could get a gift at Holt Renfrew. Hard and tugs on the skin a bit but it's decent, lasting power is okay, doesn't smudge unless you really try to, howeverrrrrr whoever designed this product must not have been the brightest considering if you twist up a bit too much product it doesn't go back down. Plastic.
Rating:
Product: 4/5
Price: 2/5
Packaging: 1/5
Environmental: 0/5

MAC eye Kohl in Fascinating:
This died after I took a nap at the school, lasted about 5 hours on the waterline (Sort of, at least it was visible to an extent). Smooth application, soft, nice product though doesn't last too long against touching but at least it comes off with grace and isn't everywhere. Wood, plastic cap, no recycling program for this one.
Rating:
Product: 3/5
Price: 3/5
Packaging: 3/5
Environmental: 0/5

MAC powerpoint eye pencil in engraved:
For the waterline this one is also a no, but for around the eye, this doesn't move! It stays where I put it and is still visible by the end of the night (Which I love) perfect essential eyeliner for sure, I love it. Carbon, plastic cap, no recycling program for this one as well.
Rating:
Product: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Packaging: 3/5
Environmental: 2/5

Overall I'm fairly okay with MAC and Lancome, MAC more so for the price of what you're getting. For the waterline however I'm still on the look-out, I believe I will be trying Power Kohl from MAC (In Feline) a little later considering it is still available at one of The Bays I went to, perhaps Urban Decays 24/7 eyeliner as well (In Yeyo). Anyways how is everyone today, sorry I missed yesterday after that Spanish exam I just wanted to crawl into a hole and die but I'm back today.

BTW has anyone seen the new Guerlain holiday collection? Can you say 'GORGEOUS' ? (It's on Temptalia but I'll be posting pictures of it later ;D )

Monday, October 6, 2008

Mac release: Dame Edna

I was verryy skeptical when I heard of MAC's Dame Edna collection (Due Dec 26th) but when Specktra had a little preview it looks like I'll have ANOTHER red lipstick (Hahaha I almost have all the reds available at MAC except for limited editions previous to Cult of Cherry) added to my collection but otherwise nothing else interests me.



Lipstick (LE) - $16.50 CAD

  • Kanga-rouge – Creamy dark blue red (amplified creme)
  • Gladiola – Matte mid-tone blue pink (matte)
  • Coral polyp – Creamy mid-tone coral (amplified creme)
Lipglass (LE) $16.50 CAD
  • Hot Frost – Sheer mid-tone blue pink with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (frost)
  • Splendid – Frosty pale pinky coral (frost)
  • Possum Nose Pink – Sheer bright coral with multi-dimensional pearlized pigments (frost)

Eye Shadow Trio (LE)

Royal Tour Eye Trio

  • Royal Tour – Mid-tone cool lilac (satin)
  • Dame’s Desire – Frosty mid-tone reddish purple (frost)
  • Climate Blue – Dark blue violet with pink pearlized pigments (velvet) (Repromote from Cool Heat)

Wisteria Eye Trio

  • Fineshine - Frosty true- silver (lustre) (Repromote from Lustrevision)
  • Wisteria – Frosty robin’s egg blue (velvet)
  • Divine Night – Frosty charcoal with silver pearlized pigments (velvet)

Highlight Powder (LE)

  • What a Dame! – Pale orangey pink
  • Spectacle – Pale soft pink

Nail Lacquer (LE) $13.00 CAD

  • Asiatique – Creamy classic red (creme) (Repromote from Ornamentalism)
  • Varicose Violet – Frost mid-tone pinkish purple (frost)




Anything catch your eye?

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Holiday release: MAC

Okay so I'm sure any makeup addict already knows about the upcoming holiday release, if not then shame on you! It's gorgeous and Temptalia just posted a little 'find' that I'm sure you will all be interested in. (Picture from MAC cosmetics website)


Adoring Carmine preview
Passions of Red preview
Passionately Red preview

As we have been told these will be released in late October

Adoring Carmine

Neutral Lips Set

  • Soft Spot Sheer light neutral pink with gold (Lipstick)
  • Real Treasure Creamy mid-tone brown pink with pearl (Lipstick)
  • My Dear Natural peach beige with pearl (Lipglass)

Rose Lips Set

  • To Swoon For Sheer mid-tone blue pink (Lipstick)
  • Romancin’ Mid-tone plum with pearl (Lipstick)
  • Delicate Crush Clean pastel pink (Lipglass)

Red Lips Set

  • Adore It Bright clear red (Lipstick)
  • Racy Frosty mid-tone burnt red (Lipstick)
  • Frostlight Clear glaze with white pearl (Lipglass)
Passions of Red

Devoted Poppy: 6 Classic Eyes

  • Young Thing Light creamy peach
  • In Awe Intense black with gold pearl
  • Fall Deeply Frosty bright blue with white pearl
  • Amourously Frosty antique gold
  • Sweet Eyes Shimmery muted golden beige
  • Awaken Frosty light green with golden pearl

Intriguing Scarlet: 6 Warm Eyes

  • Warm Suede Frosty antiqued golden olive
  • Grand Entrance Dirty deep green with green pearl
  • Real Drama Dirty burgundy with red pearl
  • Gentle Heat Light muted grey taupe
  • Well Spiced Frosted warm peachy brown
  • Sweet Joy Frosted creamy pale gold

Infatuating Rose: 6 Cool Eyes

  • Platonic Frosty greyed perwinkle
  • Cavort Cool dirty lavender orchid
  • Satisfy Slightly shimmery pale ballet pink
  • Bon Fete Frosty neutral mid-tone pink
  • Deep Feelings Dirty deep violet indigo
  • Feast Frosty pink plum

Fascinating Ruby: 6 Smokey Eyes

  • Scant Creamy white with pink pearl
  • Satin Taupe Taupe brown with silvery bronze shimmer
  • Dark Devotion Black brown
  • Gorgeous Light silver with white pearl
  • Ambiance Cool mid-tone grey with silver sparkle
  • Carbon Intense black

Devoted Poppy: 3 Coral Lips

  • Devoted Sheer mid-tone coral with subtle pearl (Lipstick)
  • Soft Talk Sheer bright reddish-coral with pearl (Lipstick)
  • Transparent Love Glossy apricot with golden red pearl (Lipglass)

Intriguing Scarlet: 3 Cool Pink Lips

  • Make Me Melt Frosty muted mid-tone pink (Lipstick)
  • Overjoyed Sheer yellow pink with pearl (Lipstick)
  • Sheer Vision Glossy soft baby pink with multi-dimensional pearl

Fascinating Ruby: 3 Plum Lips

  • Marvel Sheer pink plum with subtle pearl (Lipstick)
  • Insinuate Sheer purple plum with gold pearl (Lipstick)
  • Mutual Attraction Glossy mid-tone plum with multi-dimensional pearl (Lipglass)
Looks like I'll be skipping the eyeshadow and lip compacts, I liked last years collection the compact was more appealing to the inner 15th century Elizabethan inside of me. However since I was planning to buy the Viva Glam lipsticks anyways, the palette might be better though I haven't decided yet. The brush sets are gorgeous but sadly I bought them all last year so I think I'll resist the temptation and be a good girl for once. The lip sets? WHOAA nelly, no way these are escaping my grasp this year especially the red set (I missed Queens Sin and Port Red *SOBS*) though I think the neutrals scream "PASS" to me.

I'll be posting a few more releases a little later on, perhaps tomorrow but for now I have a paper to finish and I've already taken enough breaks for me not to sleep tonight =(.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Hello again~

Just to let everyone know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
There are many things that are being sold in order to support breast cancer research!
I encourage everyone to help out by getting something that supports it (ie. a pin) or just donate!!
This website has a lot of awesome stuff:
Pink Ribbon Shop

Also, Estee Lauder has limited edition collection called Pink Ribbon 2008 in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month! (Pictures from Estee Lauder Website)


Evelyn Lauder Lip Color Collection


Elizabeth Hurley Lip Color Collection


Jeweled Pink Ribbon Pin

Also, being a Coach fan, they have released a selection of Think Pink items as well! (Picture credits to Coach website)



Coach Site In Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

I'll be sure to donate again this year~ I hope you will too!
Remember everyone: Think Pink!
Let's make a difference!!

Much <3
-Christina

Damn it she beat me to it, I was just going to make this post today too! Anyways I'm continuing on this because it's a really important subject to me,though not many people know this (I like to keep personal stuff under wraps but since this is breast cancer awareness month hey why the hell not) about two years ago I noticed that there was spot traces of blood on my bra and didn't think much about it but when my parents found out they brought me to the doctors immediately. I went through numerous tests where sometimes they thought they saw a small lump and sometimes when they didn't find anything but to process scared the hell out of me.

They told me that there was a slight chance that I may have breast cancer but they don't believe I did so they'd keep checking, in the end they told me that they really couldn't find that lump they had in the first x-ray anymore so it was probably a mistake, and since the blood had gone away (though every now and then it comes back) I shouldn't have to worry. But even today I have to go for check-ups every 6 months, come to think of it I should be having one next week but just because of this experience I realized how horrible it would be if I was actually diagnosed with breast cancer, but every 3 mins someone is diagnosed which scares me and every 13 mins someone dies because of it, every time I walk into the clinic I'm completely terrified but hey that's the way life is.

In our lifetimes we will know at least one person who is affected by breast cancer, which is why it's always important to get regular mammograms and do regular self checks. Here is a few other links for those who might want to help out a bit but get something in return (Hey I'm not hating, I wouldn't mind getting a pretty little something back too, like, say, that coach key chain):

The Hudson Bay Company: Think Pink
Principessa: Awareness bottle (Totally cute bottle, I bought one sadly only $1 goes to the cause)
Clinique: Pink lipstick
Sephora: Products for a cause
Bobbi Brown: Think pink
Total Beauty: Breast Cancer awareness shopping guide

-Thinking about pinking it up Brenda

Friday, October 3, 2008

Diorshow: Living up to the hype?

Hello everyone!

Today, I'll be doing my first review! I am going to be rating the performance of the famous "Diorshow" mascaras.
I'm sure that I'm not the only one who has heard of all the raves about Diorshow mascaras.
Well, I was certainly drawn into the hype (especially with my addiction to mascaras...)!
Now I am able to say that I've tried almost ALL the Diorshows (Regular Diorshow, Blackout, Unlimited and Iconic) except for the waterproof ones. So, here's my take on the cult favourite, Diorshow.

(I'm not entirely sure of all the prices, so please forgive me if there's an error! Also, I don't actually have a picture of them on hand so I'll be using the pictures from the Sephora website.)

Rating System:
1 = Horrible
5 = Wonderful

1) Regular Diorshow

More Info: Click!
Price: $31 CAD
This is the one that started it all. Diorshow promises dramatic volume, length and curling (more emphasis on the volume though). Honestly, I hate this mascara with a passion. I was gave it a try after hearing such amazing things about it but it disappointed me greatly! Now, I am one of those girls who loves to keep the curl in my lashes, so I'll ALWAYS curl them before applying any mascara. This mascara deflated my curl instantly, also it flaked like crazy!!! Talk about horrible! My eyes were so irritated the whole day (and it started to flake only a few minutes after I applied it). I really, really hated the brush too. Basically it's a giant brush that is said to grab every single lash; all it did for me was coat my lashes in this flakey mess and also make it hard to use because I have "barely there" lashes.
Ratings:
Smudging: 3
It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't good either! There was minimal smudging; you could barely see it! Easily fixed with a quick swipe of a Q-Tip.
Curl: 1
As I said already, deflated my lashes instantly (INSTANT FAIL!).
Volume: 3.5
It wasn't as dramatic as they make it seem. The volume wasn't like "WOW" but it was definitely there.
Length: 2
Barely any length, but understandable since this mascara is rooted more towards volumizing.
Price: 1
Very expensive for a bunch of nothing.
Overall: 2.5
If I could get past the flaking of this mascara, it isn't a complete waste. I HAVE seen people use it and have beautiful lashes. I'd mostly recommend this mascara ONLY if you naturally have long, semi-curled lashes otherwise, I'd stay away from this! I will not be repurchasing!

2) Diorshow Unlimited

More Info: Click!
Price: $31 CAD
This one was a lot better than the regular Diorshow. Unlimited is said to give extreme length & curl. Somehow, this one didn't flake like crazy, but did flake a bit. The brush on this one is much more managable than the others and I was quite happy with this one.
Ratings:
Smudging: 3
Same as the regular Diorshow, smudging was minimal.
Curl: 3
Much better than Diorshow. This one actually held my curl up pretty well. Sometimes it would deflate it just a tiny bit, but it was pretty good with holding the curl up.
Volume: 1
If you are looking for a volumizing mascara, don't get this. This is purely for length.
Length: 2.5
Somewhat disappointing... Unlimited was alright with length, but it wasn't as extreme as I hoped it would be.
Price: 2
I think this one was more worth it then the regular Diorshow, therefore it was much more worth the price.
Overall: 3
So it wasn't horrible, but it wasn't bad; it was just in the middle. This one is pretty good but (I repeat!) people who want length probably won't like this. It was nice, but I don't think I'd purchase this again.

3) Diorshow Blackout

More Info: Click!
Price: $31 CAD
For this one, they use kohl powder to make this the blackest of black. I liked this one quite a bit~
Ratings:
Smudging: 3
Same as above two.
Curl: 2.5
Curled waaay better than Diorshow, but not as well as unlimited. It wasn't bad with holding the curl up though.
Volume: 3
It really is blackest of black and I think it seems to help with the look of lush volume. It's volume was much better than that of Diorshow.
Length: 2
Not much length, but (again) this mascara is rooted more toward volume.
Price: 2.5
I think this one is more worth it to purchase than the Diorshow & Unlimited.
Overall: This is one is one of my favourite ones. It did much better than the others, but I still won't be repurchasing.

4) Diorshow Iconic

More Info: Click!
Price: $34 CAD
Iconic is the newest addition to the Diorshow family. This mascara claims to lengthen, lift & separate. Also, this one is supposed to be smudge-proof. Now, this one is a bit different from the others because it uses plastic bristles. The brush is quite big, but managable. I prefer this brush over the others.
Ratings:
Smudging: 4.5
I must say, it really is. There are rare times where this stuff will smudge a tiny, tiny bit, but that's all! All in all, very minimal smudging (I like!).
Curl: 4
This one actually holds my curl. The only problem with this is that if there is too much product on the brush, your curl WILL fall, so wipe off as much excess as you can!
Volume: 2
Barely any volume in this one, but that's ok with me!
Length: 3.5
More length than the Unlimited! It was pretty good with length; it wasn't extreme but more of a "I have naturally long lashes" look.
Price: 3
It is more expensive than that of it's sisters in the Diorshow line, but I think it's really much more worth it than any of the others.
Overall: 3.5
This is a pretty good mascara! It gives me a look of natural definition. This is definitely what I would use as an "everyday" mascara. So far, this (and Blackout) are the ONLY ones that I haven't thrown out due to hate!

Overall, my favourite Diorshow has to be the Iconic. Separation, definition and curling? I'm sold! It didn't do much for volume, but it's wonderful if you that look natural but beautifully defined.
Now, for these mascaras I'd probably recommend anyone who already has pretty, long and curled natural eyelashes to try this out, otherwise I wouldn't really recommend these to anyone.
I hope you guys enjoyed this quadruple wammy of reviews! Look forward to MANY more to come!
Have a wonderful evening~

Much <3
-Christina