Foundation Fail

Hello Darlings!

Today's post was going to a bit more fall-oriented, but I really wanted to talk about a specific product instead (the tea just brewed that way), so let's dive in. 

My favorite BB Cream is by Maybelline (see post HERE), so I had some good expectations when I picked up Maybelline's "Fit Me" Foundation. I've heard a lot of makeup lovers talk about this foundation and how great it works for them, how it's a great dupe for some high-end foundations, so the excitement and good reviews were making me think positive thoughts.  

However, I went to try out this foundation and was dismayed when I realized it doesn't work whatsoever for my skin. The color I chose was the perfect shade for my face, and the consistency of the product was good - it has great coverage. But the look of the foundation is what I can't get past. It looks extremely cakey and cheap, and the "cakey look" has got to be my biggest foundation pet peeve, and the biggest no no.

I will say that the coverage is amazing. You only need a very thin layer on your face, and your blemishes are completely gone. I really wish that the powdery, cakey problem could be fixed, because I think this would be a great foundation for me if that went away. It's affordable and I also really like the cute packaging, which reminds me a lot of the Nars Foundation packaging. 

Sadly, this was a total Foundation Fail - I won't be using this at all in the future. I don't have the heart to throw it away yet because I've only used it twice - the bottle is still full. So it's sitting with my other foundations, looking pretty. At least Maybelline got the packaging right... but I'll stick to my better foundations. 

Have you tried any of the Fit Me foundations? 

A Fall Haul

Hi Darlings!

I decided to take the week off from blogging; it's good to take a break every once in a while and let the blogger within recharge (with some tea of course!).

So now I'm back! and I have a little haul to share with you. I've been in the shopping mood lately - time to stock up on the autumn goodies! - and here are a few things I've picked up. Excuse the iphone picture quality - I was out of luck with cameras and lighting today.

I can now proudly say I've bought my first "big" candle from B&BW. The "Pumpkin Apple" is perfect for the autumn season - and it's also amazingly yummy-smelling! I can't wait to fill my room with this glorious scent. 

The mini candle is "Spiced Cider" and is also a great fall candle. I don't think it'll last very long, because I can't stop sniffing it every time I take off the lid. 

I FINALLY bought the coveted Hoola Bronzer by Benefit, and I'm so happy about it. Bronzer is a very fall/winter product to me, so I just knew I had to pick this up, as I've been eyeing it for months now. I also bought Elf's "Golden Bronzer" pallette, which I'm excited to try - I'll have to give a comparison review of the two of them, since they are on such different ends of the scale price-wise and quality-wise (supposedly). 

The Maybelline lipstick is one of their new autumn shades, and it's the perfect plum red color for some vampy dramatic lips or a lighter red, but still dramatic, pout. 

And of course, I can't resist those EOS lipbalms!! I got the green and blue ones, I'm so happy they finally were stocked at my local Ulta. (Read my EOS post HERE)

So that is my little Fall Haul - not a super long post, but I'm getting back into it, I promise! I'll be back with a post on Sunday.

Come To Bed Red

Hello Darlings!

I know I just wrote about nail polish two posts ago, but what can I say? I finally bought a color by Butter London that I have been obsessing (yes, obsessing) over, and I immediately put it on my nails to show some autumn-induced color. So I had to blog about it!

The color is called "Come To Bed Red", which is such a catchy name that it made me love the color even more. I just love the idea of a good deep, pure red for autumn - I think it's a fall staple that every girly girl needs. Especially nail polish addicts!

The perfect holiday color - it'll also be great for Christmas. If you take any pictures outside in the snow, the contrast of the white and red will make those nails pop. 

As always, LOVE Butter London's packaging

Vibrant nails... hello fall!

I'll probably end up wearing this for the next few weeks because I just love it so much... what autumn color are you obsessing over? 

Tea Time Tip

Hi Darlings!

I had a post planned for today, but it'll have to wait because I ran out of daylight - no good lighting means no good pictures, for now.

So today, I decided to do another Tea Time Tip. This one is about haircare - some tips to keep those girly strands shiny! Read on for some things that have helped me along the way to keeping my hair healthier.

The first bit of advice is, switch up your shampoo and conditioner regularly. I always have two different shampoos in my shower and alternate with them. I also like to buy smaller shampoo sizes - this means I run out faster, causing me to switch it up and try new things. This is good for your hair because if you overuse a shampoo, it'll eventually not have the same cleansing effect anymore. Rotating is key!

Second tip: stop using paddle brushes! These are actually what I call "frizz machines". They are too hard on your hair and there is too much static with the bristles, causing more broken ends and more frizz. For someone with thick, but also fine hair, that's a deadly combo. I switched to using a small-tooth comb recently (read the haul post HERE) and I'm so glad I did. It has already noticeably gotten rid of a lot of my split ends and definitely the frizz, and that's exciting news for me, girls. It's all in all just healthier for your hair and if you want to take better care of those locks and make them shine, then take this extra easy step.

Third tip: Non-foaming shampoos. If you've never tried any before, branch out and try it! After a bit of researching, I discovered the benefits of shampoos without the usual lather.
The ingredient in shampoos that creates a lather is Sulfate. Sulfate can seriously dry out any color-treated hair, and if you have a sensitive and/or dry scalp, your regular shampoos might actually be making it worse. Non-foaming shampoos solve that problem, and have a lot of substituted, varied vitamins in them that are nourishing.

Fourth tip: Apply the right way! Shampoo is supposed to be applied to the scalp only, and a little further if your hair is longer, but never to the ends. A good strategy is to apply conditioner to your ends first, and then shampoo your scalp and surrounding area of your hair. Then when you wash the shampoo out, the conditioner will have soaked into your ends and coated them nicely, and the shampoo will wash through all your hair and clean it without being too harsh.

So those are my haircare tips that I recommend - what your your haircare secrets?

Jet Set To Paris

Hello Darlings!

Let's take a trip to Paris! My nails for the week are Loreal's "Jet Set To Paris". I received this as a gift and I just love it! However, I feel that it's too intense for spring and summer - it's one of those deep statement colors that fits the colder months, so I've been saving it. And what a cute name! It makes me feel so girly when I put it on.

So now that autumn is around the tea table, I'm breaking out all my fall favorites, and this is one of them! I thought it would be a good transition nail color for approaching fall. I love how bold it is! Even with only one coat, it's very opaque. My impression of the Loreal polishes is that they're good quality and worth the money.

There's something so classy to me about a good deep blue nail color, and I love the contrast and how much it pops next to my yellow Baby Lips! It shows how striking the blue is, although I don't know if any of my pictures quite do it justice!

I'll be wearing this pretty often this fall and winter, and it'll continue to be one of my favorites for the season. Tea toast to the coming autumn (I'm so excited)!

Little Eos In A Row

Hi Darlings!

Is there really anything better than a good lip balm? And is there anything better than EOS? 

I say not! These lip balms are all-around perfect. They're moisturizing and good for those dry, needy lips - and I can't get over the cute egg-shaped packaging. Each one has a different scent that's always lush and somehow adorable. Overall, I can sincerely say I'm obsessed. I almost bought another "sweet mint" one during a Target run because it just looked so cute - even though I already own it! Buy one and you'll be addicted fast.

Fridays are always busy, girls, so keep a handy EOS by your side over the weekend - and say goodbye to any beauty malfunctions for your lippies! 

My favorite of the bunch has got to be "Summer Fruit", the dark red one in my little row. It just has the scent that suits me the most, so it's always in my purse with me. I'm almost out, so it might be time for a refill!

Second has got to be "Strawberry Sorbet", the light pink one - I always have this one on my bedtable. I apply it right before I go to sleep, and also in the morning. It's part of my nightly routine and the scent is growing on me - I kind of qualmed at it at first, but now it's very calming. 

Third would have to be "Lemon Drop", which is of course the yellow - the added SPF made this one my summer must-have! I took this trusty little one to the beach and all my pool trips, and it kept my lips hydrated. And the scent!! (Swoon) 

And lastly, there's "Sweet Mint", as cute as the pastel mint color of the packaging. The smell and taste of this one is incredible... however, I found this one to be very drying, due to the ingredient in it that gives your lips that minty buzz. While the feeling is all fuzz and fizzly, the end result isn't, which is why this one comes in last. I don't think I'll ever use it all up because the drying factor has turned me off a lot. But it's still cute - and I've become a collector of all the lip balms. Why? Just because. Does a girl need a reason when something is THIS cute? (We all know the answer to that)

I want to pick up "Bluberry Acai", "Honeysuckle Honeydew", and "Medicated Tangerine", but they are never in stores near me. But they're on the wish list!

Check out EOS's website if you want to browse some of their amazing products!

Do you own any EOS lip balms? What's your favorite?

Product Loves!

Hi Darlings!

Today is a really rainy day - but don't let that stop your tea party! Here are two products I've been totally LOVING lately - just grab these two items, and turn that dreary day into sunshine! It's amazing what a good blush and smoky eye can do for your mood.

The first product is an eyeshadow palette by Rimmel London. It's 621 in "Orion", and it's one of their Glam Eyes palettes. I've had it for quite a while but only recently started reaching for it... and now it's been a daily must-have for my eyes. Whether it's a subtle look I'm going for with just a bit of shimmer, a dramatic smoky eye, or a flattering matte color for my lids, this is the perfect little palette that can do it all for me. My favorite has been a nice smoky eye. Perfect for a casual or dolled up face of the day!

 

Next is a blush by Wet N Wild, and it's in the shade "Mellow Wine". I've been super in love with this, because it's that perfect wine-red color with hints of purple undertones, which is a lovely match for my olive-toned skin. The texture of the blush is very smooth and blends well - there are also small amounts of glitters in the blush, giving it a bit of shine but not anything crazy noticeable. This is another product I love to just brush on the apples of my cheeks to give myself a healthy glow. It's been reached for during my makeup routine and it's become a well-used favorite.

What are some of your favorite products that you can't use enough? Any staples or must-haves?

Thanks for reading!

A Makeup Ramble

Hello Darlings!

Today I wanted to share some pictures and just have a little "Makeup Ramble".

One of my favorite things is getting up in the morning, showering, and then applying my makeup. I have the most time to pamper, take my time, relax, and enjoy this routine on the weekends. I love taking pictures of my "makeup of the day", and here are a few fun ones. (I like to glam them up with apps, and excuse the quality, these are quick snapshots from my iPhone).

At this point I've accumulated a good amount of makeup, but I still always find room for more - and the NEED for more. It's just the most addictive, fun thing to shop for. Nothing better than restocking on some new fun, cute, pretty products! I'm sure every beauty guru has the shopping bug. 

My makeup process isn't really complete without taking a quick photo of what I'm wearing that day. It's the last thing I do before I put everything away, and it's just one of those small things that makes me happy. Does anyone else do this? 

Ulta Haul

Hi Darlings!

So I went to Ulta today with a simple mission - I needed some new shampoo. Of course, I ended up with a few more items along the way... Oops! But there were some sales, so of course I wasn't going to pass that up. And I also had enough Ulta points to reduce my purchase even more. 

The shampoo is one I've been eyeing for quite a while. Every time I go into Ulta, I slow down in the aisle and my eye is caught by the bright, bubbly packaging. So this time, I finally caved because lo and behold, it was discounted (gasp)! I picked my favorite scent, and happily was enthused to shop for a few more things because shopping was going so well. 

I believe this shampoo is by Ulta itself, and it was the name "Beauty Smoothie" that first caught my eye. This shampoo is actually also a shower gel and a bubble bath. I love that it's multi-purpose because it's something I've never experimented with before. The smell is perfectly fruity, sweet, and fresh, and I can't wait to try it out. Beauty and smoothies - sounds like a party to me. :)

I picked up two of these because they were only $6 each. Kenra is much more expensive than the average hair care brand, and I've been looking for a good texturizing product, so this seemed just right. I'll be using this tomorrow to help style my hair and I couldn't be more excited! Taffy anyone?

The last item is simple, but essential. I finally broke down and bought one of those things you always have in the back of your mind, but always forget because it seems so small. But I'm positive that this purchase will turn out to be a life-changing one... or hair-changing. You're actually supposed to brush your hair with a fine-tooth comb instead of the other types, because this one will keep away frizz, damage, and breakage. It's the healthiest way to brush your hair. I'm glad I purchased this and will definitely try to use it in the future instead of my regular brushes (time for a new hairdo!)

Those are the things I bought for this small weekend haul, I'm very excited! Have you bought anything interesting lately?

Facial Friday: Olay Fresh Effects

Hello Darlings!

It's time for another Facial Friday - and I knew just the thing to talk about! I might just add this facial kit to my tea party (a kettle is whistling!).

Here it is: the "Olay Fresh Effects Va-Va-Vivid Powered Contour Cleansing System". Quite a spoonful! But it's every bit as amazing as it's name is long, and I'm so glad I decided to purchase not just the cleanser, but the entire kit. Because the brush is incredible.

Olay's Fresh Effects line is one directed toward it's younger audience, and this colorful kit caught my eye immediately. I decided to purchase the kit during a Walgreen's trip, and the lady working the beauty section saw how excited I was, so she gave me the example kit as well! I got two for the price of one, only adding to the happiness.

This is the Cleansing Brush. It is battery-powered, and when you turn it on, it has a very good vibration technique. The spongy bristles are the perfect combo of soft but deep-cleaning, and I find it very effective. Extra tip: this is also AMAZING to use as a lip scrub! Just turn it on and massage your lips, and they'll be unbelievably smooth, soft, and moisturized. You'll have kissable lips in no time at all. 

The cleanser itself is also perfection. I hadn't tried any Olay products before, so I had nothing to compare it to from the brand, but this cleanser is just right. It's exfoliating, but very gentle. My skin gets sensitive if the exfoliation is too rough, but it has no issue with this one - and it also smells so good!

I incorporate this into my shower routine, and it leaves my face feeling fresh, clean, and smelling heavenly as a bonus. The brush is great at getting all the angles and contours of your face covered, as well as doubling as a lip scrubber. 

I definitely want to repurchase this when I run out. The brush is also definitely going to be around in my shower items for a long time - I don't know what I did without it!

Have you tried this product? What are your Facial Friday Faves?

Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub

Hi Darlings!

Today's review is about a product I was SO excited to try out - and now that I've used it, I'm even more excited, because it's amazing.

It's the Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub by Michael Todd. It's claims are: "exfoliates/removes impurities" and it's also suitable for all skin types. I used this in my shower, and since I've never used a charcoal scrub before, I was happily curious to see that it was a lightly grainy, black-colored consistency.

I find it perfect to apply during a shower, so that you can quickly wash it off very easily. The directions advise to apply the scrub gently to the face, to avoid over-stimulating the skin. The result is smooth, clean, soft skin that feels so marvelous afterwards! It does have beads, but very small, and more like a light grain. Since I'm a bit against exfoliators now because they're so harsh on the skin (even gentle ones, in most cases), this was perfect for me. 

The packaging of Michael Todd has always looked so cute to me. And the jojoba in this product is amazing. Love! 

Overall, I would highly reccommend this product. I've been wanting to try out Michael Todd for a few months, and this was the perfect first thing to try out. I'll definitely be using this as my go-to scrub, and I love the fact that it's a charcoal scrub as well. Definitely a new skincare love!

Have you tried any charcoal scrubs, or anything by Michael Todd?

Tea Time Tip

Hello Darlings!

I've decided to do something a little different for this post - let's talk beauty. During Tea Time Tips, rather than reviewing a product, I'll discuss beauty myths, tips, ideas, and DIYs. I think it'll be fun, so sip your tea and keep reading!

Today I'm going to talk about Lip Balms. Even if you're not as much of a beauty guru, if you're a girl, chances are you've got a tube of chapstick in your purse, or an EOS lip balm sitting on your dresser. 

The problem? Chapsticks and Lip Balms can have ingredients in them that make your lips dry - which means you'll need to apply more, but that only dries them out more, so you apply it more and more often... It's a crazy cycle! And if you pick the wrong one, you may be doing to your lips exactly what you're trying to fix. 

Here are some helpful ingredients in chapsticks to stay AWAY from:

• Menthol
• Eucalyptis
• Camphor
• Phenol

Menthol, Eucalyptis, and Camphor all give that tingly and cooling feeling, which I admit I do love because it just feels good - but it dries out your lips. Think of it like this: toothpaste has that similar tingling, minty effect, but it's extremely drying if you put it on your skin. Not a good idea! 

Phenol strips your skin, which leaves your lips exposed. You want to replenish and moisturize your lips, not strip them down. Hello lip cracks!

So what's the good stuff? Look for these ingredients in your lip balms: 

• Cocoa Butter
• Shea Butter
• Jojoba oil 
• Coconut oil

These ingredients are all very moisturizing, and that is the key. They aren't irritants like Menthol and and Phenol can be. Stick to these trustworthy ingredients, and your lips will be oh so juicy and thankful!

A cute idea? Buy a pack of cute lip balm containers and make your own DIY lip balms! I'm on the search for the perfect, easy recipe to do just that - I'll keep you posted if I find anything! 

Bath Bling: Vidal Sassoon Hair Mask

Hello Darlings!

Sunday is the last day before the weekend - why not give yourself that little extra bit of pampering?
That's what this product is perfect for - it was a random discovery of mine, and a very happy one. It's the Vidal Sassoon Hair Mask... Pampering for your hair in a little jar!

I found this cutie at Target, and figured, for the amazing $4 price, why not give it a try? I've been looking for a good hair mask for a while, and this cheaper option was a good trial run to test out the hair mask waters. 

I just LOVE the consistency of this mask - it feels like a slightly heavier whip cream. The fact that it's also in a jar is another big plus - I love scooping out the product in my hand because it's so creamy and soft. 

The theory is to leave the mask on for one minute and then rinse it out. But I always leave it on slightly longer - and the result is amazing! I brush my hair after showering, and when I used this mask, there were NO tangles in my hair whatsoever, and my hair was soft as could be! 

If you've been styling your hair - especially heat-styling - like most beauty gurus do, then apply some of this during your next shower, and your hair will be refreshed and oh so thankful. And another bonus? The smell is heavenly! 

A Nail Polish Remover Discovery

Hi Darlings!

I don't know about you, but on Friday nights, the last thing I want to worry about it cheap, chipped nails... No beauty guru wants that! Especially if you're going to that special party. 

Enter this glorious find, CVS's brand of Nail Polish Remover. I was gifted this by my boyfriend, who picked it up after hearing about my nail polish remover woes (trust me, there were plenty). I'd heard about it from a friend during one of our lovely tea parties (where we both had perfect nails, thankfully), and mentioned it a few times, but as I never go to CVS, forgot about it. So when my boyfriend surprised me with it, I was happy as could be! 

The packaging is crisp, clean, and I love that it's in a jar. I was getting tired of those Remover bottles that simply don't look as pretty. 

("I can clean your nails!")

The idea behind this product and the way to use it is amazing. Tired of using cotton balls to rub the nail polish angrily off of your nails? Tired of the remover bottles that spill everywhere too easily? This puts all those troubles to rest. Below is what the jar looks like on the inside. All you need to do? Just stick each finger into the jar, one at a time, and either move your finger up and down against the tabs, or twist it against them. The squishy tabs and the remover combined make your nail polish fade away in about 10 seconds! (Whoever thought this up, from the bottom of my beauty guru heart - THANK YOU). And voila - look at those clean nails, all ready for the next lovely nail polish. No more hiding your nails when you're holding a teacup! 

One small concern: in order for this product to be as effective and fast as it is, the remover itself is much stronger than your average bottle. So when your finger comes out, it can look strangely whitened and feel very dry. But I found the perfect solution - after all your nails are clean, just wash them with soap, and then for a good finishing touch, apply hand cream/moisturizer. The drying effect that the remover gives will be erased when you wash your hands, and also moisturize them for good measure.

So really, the only downside isn't a downside at all, because it's such an easy fix! I would 100% reccomend this amazing product - for any nail polish junkie, it's a complete godsend. I'm never going back to the awkward remover bottles again!

Happy Friday darlings! Have fun at those parties with your clean nails!

Maybelline Falsies Mascara

Hello Darlings!

Today's post is a review of my current mascara I've been using: Maybelline Falsies. 

The last mascara I had was by Covergirl - I can't remember it's name, but it was in a bright orange, round tube. I had it for a few years, and never really replaced it, using it very sparingly. Mascara was never a big thing to me in the beginning of my makeup experience. 

But after seeing some great reviews this spring and summer about Falsies, I just had to try it...

Now, mascara is my favorite last touch to my everyday look. Looking at reviews of Falsies, it looked entirely promising: Some of it's claims were, it's voluminous, lengthening, and lives up to it's name... in need of a false lashes substitute, girls? Don't worry about those false lashes falling into your tea, because this mascara can give you that look, glue-free! 

I was so excited to see if this mascara was as great as all the beauty hype. And just look at the packaging, too - what beauty guru is going to resist that enticing grape color with blue accents? (Not me, I can assure you). So into the bag it went!

THE REVIEW:

The formula is smooth and thick. I didn't purchase the waterproof version, but nonetheless, this is certainly water resistant. I've worn it to the pool and never had a problem with running or smudging. That was an unexpected plus! 

That being said, here are my two negative thoughts: First, because of the thick texture, it can sometimes clump on the lashes, so you've got to work it a little bit. Second, it's great that it's waterproof, but when it comes to removal, this stuff holds on for dear life. My poor eyelashes do suffer a bit every time I need to wash my face clean of makeup. I'd hate be scared to experience the strength of the actual waterproof version. 

Overall, I love this mascara but I dislike it as well. There are an equal amount of pros and cons, and I'm thinking that I can find a 100% mascara out there, which this one didn't quite live up to. So after this one, I'll be in the market for something new. Although I do hate despair to give up the beautiful bottle... sigh.

What are your mascara traumas/triumphs? Have you tried Falsies or anything from the Maybelline line?