Influenster: J'Adore Vox Box

Only a month late posting this…whoops!

I was sent another Vox Box in February by Influenster which if you haven't heard about them, you can check out my post about their program here.

This box was a nice little surprise because honestly, I have been so consumed with work, I've been neglecting my Influenster page.

This box came with tea from Red Rose, a face mask from Boots, false lashes from Kiss, hair serum from John Frieda, and a giant bag of Hershey Kisses. Some people also received spray lotion for Men by Vaseline and I don't know if this sounds weird, but I was a little bummed when I didn't see it in my box…haha.

When I received the box, I immediately made a cup of Lemon Chiffon tea which was seriously amazing! It literally tasted like a lemon cookie…YUM!

While enjoying my tea, I tried the face mask and it was a very interesting consistency. It was actually very watery which was weird for a face mask. It never really tightened on my face which was fine and it washed off easily. I only used it a few times but didn't notice any benefits from it. I didn't break out so that's always a good thing, but I can't say that I like it. I wouldn't say I hate it, it's just blah in my opinion.

I posted a review of the lashes earlier, which you can read about here.

As for the chocolate, I'm proud to say that I have yet to open that ginormous family sized bag of kisses! #selfcontrol #patontheback

Last but not least, the hair serum, which is another product I did not try. It's to keep hair straight and I already have straight hair so I don't have a need for that product. If anything, I would love it if someone could invent a serum that would give straight hair some voluminous soft curls…how awesome would that be?!

All in all, a great surprise to receive this box and I still really like the program that Influenster offers. The definite stand out for me in this box was the Lemon Chiffon tea…I never thought I would choose a tea over beauty products but it really was that good!

Kiss: Looks So Natural Lashes in Pretty

I received these lashes complimentary from Influenster last month for testing purposes and I have to say, false lashes is right up there with air and water as far as my life essentials are concerned. I wish I was kidding about that statement.

Needless to say, I was really excited to give these a try! So excited in fact, I came home from work with my 13 hour make up face and put these bad boys on!

1st post of 2014!

Let's first start off with the pleasantries, Happy New Year everyone! 2014 is here! 

I haven't posted since November which is crazy, but life just kind of took over (as it always does). I started a new job which is the main reason for the sudden halt in posts, but Stella's getting her groove back, and I should be able to post at least twice a month now.

I did a crazy amount of make up shopping over the holidays (damn you Sephora and your 20% off), and I have a few reviews that I started months ago and never finished. So stay tuned for those!

As for 2014, I made a resolution to not have resolutions. So far, I'm right on track! Haha. 

For me personally, I think 2014 is going to be a year of new beginnings in every aspect of my life. I'll be honest, I don't like change too much, but this year, I'm all for it….Bring It On! 

In the make up world, I'm totally onboard with the pantone color of the year, Radiant Orchid!

I'm excited for all the purples, pinks, fuchsia, and all that goodness to start popping up! 

I hope everyone is well and I look forward to another amazing year!

xoxo,

Kristina

Beauty Blender Dupe for $5.99?!

I swear by the BeautyBlender to apply foundation because it truly applies make up flawlessly but at $19.99 it is a bit of a splurge. I've tried other copy cat sponges that claim to do the same thing but none of them were as good as the original.

The main difference is the texture of the sponge and that difference makes all the difference! (Wow, I think that's a new personal record for how many times I've used the word difference in one sentence! Haha)

If you have tried any of the more affordable versions, they are a much more dense sponge. They usually don't expand that much when you apply water to it and again the density…they are very firm and not soft at all like the BeautyBlender. This prevents the sponge from distributing and blending the product effortlessly on the face.

A few weeks ago, I had heard all the buzz that Real Techniques had come out with their version of the BeautyBlender and it was actually good. Of course I had to give this a try and the verdict is in: we have a winner!

Forever 21: Street Chic Outfit Inspiration

'Tis the season for holiday sales and countless hours spent online shopping aka my favorite time of the year! I recently was on Forever 21's website for hours and fell in love with this studded hat(shown below). What started as a "that's cute" moment turned into lets get a whole outfit together! I love these pieces I found and they are all still available online! For this outfit I would rock a bold red lip, loose wave curls and call it a day!

Direct links to products shown:
Scarf print sweatshirt 
ID necklace
Pyramid Studs
Spiked Coil Ring
Paneled Leggings
Spiked Open Rings
Studded Snapback
Cut Out Booties
*Links provided via ShopSense and Polyvore*

Urban Decay: Naked 3 Palette

So I'm sure you have heard by now that Urban Decay will be releasing the Naked Palette 3 this month. Oh Urban Decay why do you do this to us?!

*Picture taken from Urban Decay's FB page*

The palette features more pinks and browns compared to the other 2 palettes and is described as featuring 12 new rose-hued shades. The concept kind of reminds me of the LORAC Unzipped palette but less matte shades and more shimmer. For an in depth review of the Naked 3 palette and swatches, head over to Temptalia where she has posted very detailed photos and descriptions of each shade.

Just like when the Naked 2 was released, I find myself wondering if I need this palette. The rational side of me says no. Not because the shades aren't beautiful, but I have so much eyeshadow, I barely touch my Naked 1 or 2. However, the make up hoarder inside me is screaming "Yes! You need this!"

Decisions, decisions….

Will you be purchasing this when it gets released?

*Some direct links provided via ShopSense*

Sephora VIB Wishlist!

It's that wonderful time of year again for Sephora VIB's...20% off is here! Between now and November 11th, VIB's get 20% off their purchase!

This is one of my favorite times of the year, not only because I feel a little less guilty about buying a crap ton of makeup but holiday sets are in so it's also a great time to pick up gifts for myself Christmas (which I can't believe is right around the corner)!

Here are my top picks, what's yours?

Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick $28.00

Hourglass No 28 Primer Serum $22.00-$65.00

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette $58.00

Marc Jacobs Lip Lock Moisture Balm $24.00

Lit-Lit Kit $19.95

Too Faced La Creme $21.00

Lorac PRO To Go Eye/Cheek Palette $38.00

Tarte Off The Cuff Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush Palette & Bracelet $42.00

Formula X for Sephora The Twenty-Two $55.00

*All pictures are from Sephora.com and all direct links provided via Shopsense*

Dia De Los Muertos/Sugar Skull Inspired Make Up!

"Next year, I'm going to have my Halloween costume planned out so I'm not rushing last minute again."

Does that statement sound familiar? I find myself saying it every year and I think I procrastinate that much more the following year!

Well, last weekend I went to a Dia De Los Muertos themed event and I thought I would share what I chose to do for makeup. Hopefully this might be helpful to other fellow Halloween procrastinators if you need something simple and easy to do.

I love the endless creative possibilities that you can do for a sugar skull make up look but I couldn't commit to a whole face of make up at the time, so I opted for a simple half mask look. I did a very basic look that can definitely be amped up and be very intricate (I only took about 30 mins to finish my look). The best part is, it costs close to nothing to achieve because chances are you own everything already!

**I apologize in advance for the quality of the photos. I didn't plant to actually post about this so all of them were taken on a shitty phone and filters had been added to most of them.**

What you'll need:

White face paint (I purchased the cream kind in a tube at Rite Aid for 99 cents!) 

Concealer or Foundation in a color several shades lighter than your skin tone. The lighter, the better!

Black liquid liner

Black gel liner

Black eyeshadow

Red Lipstick

Angled brush

Foundation brush

Optional: Setting Spray

Optional: White or Translucent setting powder

Optional: Rhinestones & Lash Glue (I just placed a rhinestone at each end of my eye for a touch of sparkle but you can incorporate them into your mask as well)

Tip: I tried applying the white face paint by itself and it was awful! If you decide to use a cheap brand like I did, make sure to mix in some concealer or foundation. This will make it apply much smoother and I found it applied best with a foundation brush. 

I used the gel liner for my nose, the line that goes from my mouth to ear, and the scallop detailing on the tops of my cheeks. I used the liquid liner for all the other line detailing and lower lashes that I drew below my lower lash line. 

The pictures blur out the detail but I also used black eyeshadow to contour over the gel liner on the sides of my cheeks.

*I did apply a translucent powder over the mask portion of my face and also used a setting spray all over my face. Everything stayed in tact for the 7 hours that I had this on.*

For the flower crown, I just went to the dollar tree and picked up some fake roses. I simply pulled off the flowers and hot glued them to a black elastic headband. You could also glue them to a ribbon if you have a larger head or for more secure wear. 

Actual Products Used for the half mask:

Rite Aid brand White Cream Makeup

Hard Candy Glamoflage in Light

ELF Studio HD Powder

Maybelline Eyestudio Gel Liner in Blackest Black

Jesse's Girl Liquid Liner

Black eyeshadow from Coastal Scents 88 Original Palette

Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Icon

Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

*Some direct links have been provided via ShopSense*

Revlon Colorburst: Unapologetic & Enticing

I'm a huge fan of Revlon's Lip Butters (which are also part of the Colorburst family), so you can imagine how excited I was to finally see this display at my local Rite Aid last week!

This new collection features two finishes: Lacquer and Matte! The 10 Matte shades come in matte packaging and the 10 Lacquer shades come in shiny packaging. Believe it or not, this actually took me a minute to figure out because the shades were all out of place in the display....I know, no excuse. Brain fart moment for sure! As you can tell by the picture, the matte shades seem to be very popular because there are only 3 left compared to the reasonable amount of Lacquer colors available.

I only picked up one from each section to see if I liked them before going crazy and buying everything. (Who am I kidding though, I know it's the inevitable ending) Anyways, without further ado, here are some photos!

I picked up the matte shade in Unapologetic and the lacquer shade in Enticing. The balms are sealed by a clear sticker which is a nice effort, but it doesn't really prevent tampering with.

Unapologetic

I found the formula of this balm to be very smooth but also quite slippery. The texture kind of reminds me of NXY's soft matte lip cream's. Although smooth, the almost whipped/butter cream consistency can be patchy and not flattering on dry lips. Definitely exfoliate!

Enticing

I loved the formula of this one! Super smooth, shiny, and the consistency has a bit of tack to it. They aren't sticky at all but they have a really nice feel to them. Super shiny but not greasy at all. It reminded me a lot of Urban Decay's Super Saturated High Gloss lip color. 

Other things to note:

Scent: Subtle minty scent

Packaging: Exactly like Revlon's Kissable balms- twist up tube, no sharpener

Lasting Power: These are not long lasting at all. I would say 2-3 hours if you aren't eating and drinking and much less than that if you are. They also will transfer so that's something to keep in mind.

Both finishes are very pigmented and there are great color choices from both lines. I have to say that I really love the lacquer line and prefer that over the matte line based on formula. I didn't see anything mentioned that these were limited edition, so I'm excited that these will most likely be permanent items!

Fabletics Review

Last month I posted about a new addition to the JustFab family, Fabletics. To read my original post, you can click here.

I completely failed in getting a review up right away but thanks to a comment from a reader, I was reminded to post this up!

Even though I'm not an avid fitness buff, I was really excited for this package to arrive. My order came within a week's time and I was so excited that I forgot to take any pictures of the packaging. Can we say blogger fail?! If my memory serves me right though, it came in a no frills white plastic packaging (similar to packages that come from ASOS).

In my excitement, I ripped all the tags off right away and tried on the items. Within a few hours I was already hitting the pavement and was out for a run. It's amazing what a motivation new fitness clothes can be, proving to myself once again that shopping is good for my health! Haha. All the apparel comes individually wrapped in plastic, and each item has a Fabletics tag attached with it's original pricing and a summary of the apparel's features.

As I mentioned in my last post I purchased the Reveal set which included the Omemee Sports Bra, Nadi Leggings, and a headband. When purchased all together the set goes for $49.95 as opposed to the retail total of $79.85.

Omemee Sports Bra- Retail Price $24.95

I liked the asymmetrical straps on this bra but as far as function, I was worried it wouldn't be enough support. I'm working with quite a healthy set of ta-ta's for lack of a better description, and it definitely poses challenges when finding a good work out bra. I have to say that this is one of the better sports bra's I have ever worn. The material is great quality, the removable cups provided great coverage, and the bra provided really good support. 

Nadi Leggings- Retail Price $49.95

*small reflector detail at bottom of pants*

I was most excited to try out the leggings and they did not disappoint! Not gonna lie, I wear them as part of my"errands day"outfit all the time now. Right out of the package I could tell these were quality leggings. The material was much thicker than I was expecting but in a good way. Great for cooler weather work outs but fine for warmer weather as well. Once you put them on, they just suck everything in and keep anything from jiggling. They are a bit long on me but because of the thicker material they stay in place and the extra length just stays bunched at my ankles (exactly as shown in the pictures on the site). The best feature though in my opinion is the chafe-resistant design and moisture wicking for dryness. Not exactly sure how they do this but my inner thighs are happy and dry! There's also a small pocket at the top seam of the pants (which at first I thought was a defect), but now it's just the most convenient place to put my house key in.

*key pocket at top seam*

Headband- Retail Price $4.99

I haven't used this yet but to me it's just a standard headband. Not too much to say about it other than it's well made and I think it will last a long time.

Recap

All in all, I am very pleased with the quality of the items I received. If you are looking for some well made, quality work out apparel, I think Fabletics is definitely worth checking out. I think it's comparable to the likes of Lulumelon and at a much more affordable price if you purchase the sets. I now have my eye on the Force set which I think will be a great addition to my new Fabletics collection! Right now new members get 50% off their first purchase so it's a great time to try this line if you haven't already. Again, you don't have to make a purchase each month and you can cancel anytime which is great! To check out Fabletics, click here!

*Referral links provided*

OCC Lip Tar 2.0 Review & Swatches!

I cannot believe it has taken me this long to try Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars, but better late then never right?!

I purchased these from Sephora a few months ago but you can also purchase them from the OCC site. They run $18 a pop so it's definitely worth purchasing the sets at Sephora that go for $49 for 5 (and a lip brush is included). There are 3 different sets to choose from, but today I will be talking about the 2.0 set.

If you are a makeup addict, you already know what these are but for the newbies out there, these are described as super pigmented and long lasting matte lipsticks. They not only can be worn alone, but they can be mixed to create custom colors. They are also Paraben-free and 100% vegan and cruelty free.

After hearing rave reviews for years, I was really excited to try these out! So were they just as amazing as everyone had said they were?

Cherry Culture Sale!

Right now through 9/30, Cherry Culture's entire site is 40% off!!!

CODE: FBI2013

If you haven't heard of CherryCulture.com, then you are missing out my friend! I get almost all of my NYX and Milani products here because they are cheaper and shipping is free when you spend $40! They carry several different "drugstore" type brands but they also carry brands like Beauty Blender, Juice Beauty, Model in a Bottle, and what I noticed most recently; Ardell and China Glaze!

Normally several products on the site are offered at a discounted price. For this 40% off sale, all items are marked up to their MRSP price and then you receive 40% off. Even with products at their MRSP, you are still saving money.

I don't really need anything but as an avid false lash wearer and nailpolish addict, I opted for some Ardell's and China Glaze polishes. Best part: lashes came out to $2.34 a pair and China Glaze for less than $3....Hell Yea! I'm not affiliated with Cherry Culture in any way, I just got so excited about the savings that I had to share!

I also recommend purchasing a Beauty Blender if you don't already have one or need a new one. At 40% off, you can't beat that!

Well, what are you waiting for? Click this link and start shopping!!!

Fabletics

I just received an email today regarding the newest addition to the "Fab team" (JustFab & fabkids), Fabletics. Co-Founder Kate Hudson is behind this new fitness clothing line that combines her intuition as an athlete and fashion lover. It's another monthly subscription service that allows you to take a quick survey and then receive monthly picks based on your profile.

The monthly fee is $49.95 to be a VIP member but you have until the 10th of each month to skip and not be charged anything. Basically, it's just like JustFab, in that you never have to make a purchase if you don't want to. You do however, have to remember to skip each month! Becoming a VIP member offers significant savings on outfits (up to 40%), but you can purchase items separately as well.

After browsing the site, the clothing doesn't seem to be anything too special or different design wise. Hopefully that will change as time goes on. There are a variety of basics offered from sports bras, tanks, capris, leggings, etc. I'm not a huge fitness buff by any means but I'm sure the lululemon addicts out there will agree, you pay for the quality of the fabric.

Being that Fabletics is still very new, there aren't many reviews out yet. However, from the ones I have read, Fabletics seems to be providing some quality stuff!

I just ordered an outfit and I'm excited to see for myself. I picked out the 'Reveal' outfit which included 3 items for $49.95:

Omemee Sports Bra

Nadi Legging

Headband

I'll definitely post a review as soon as I get the items. If you are in need of some fitness clothing or this intrigues you, feel free to use my referral link and get 20% off your first purchase!

*Pictures taken from Fabletics.com, referral links provided*

Jesse's Girl: Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

I can't believe it, the day has finally come.

I'm in love with an affordable version my beloved Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Eyeliner!!! Ringing in at a nice $6.99, Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is all that and then some!

I received this liner in my September Glam bag and I was sooo excited because I have been wanting to try this liner out for awhile. The only place I know you can purchase Jesse's Girl Cosmetics other than their website is at Rite Aid, and my local Rite Aid's never carry the liner. Thanks again IPSY, you rock!

OPI: Rock Goddess Review & Swatches!

This month OPI has released their Halloween 2013 limited edition mini nail lacquer set. The set includes four rocker-inspired mini nail lacquers and an adjustable skull bracelet. The set retails for $12.95 at Ulta but I have seen varying prices online.

First, I must thank my friend who got this for me. As a polish addict, I could never have too much and a friend that supports my addiction is a keeper, if I do say so myself! Ok, now on to the review and swatches!

Favorite Beauty Blender and Brush Cleanser for under $5!

Beauty Blender- $19.95

Beauty Blender Cleanser- $17.95

Beauty Blender Solid Cleanser- $15.95

I'm no mathematician but spending almost the same amount as the product to clean the product is not the business. 

I've always used Neutrogena Naturals Cleansers to clean my beauty blender and the occasional dish soap for deep cleaning. (P.S. dish soap with a bit of olive oil works amazing for cleaning brushes as well.) I've been content with how well this cleaned my Beauty Blender, until I started using....drum roll please....

Yves Saint Laurent at Costco?

Yup. You read the title right, I just spotted YSL's Rouge Volupté Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick at my local Costco! I haven't been to Costco in awhile so this could very well be old news, but I was quite impressed to see it in stores.

My local Costco only had one color available, 11 Rose Culte, but I'm excited to see if they will start to offer more colors.

Originally $34 a piece at Sephora, they sell for $26.99 at Costco. This isn't a huge savings but it's savings none the less. I hope this is just foreshadowing more high end make up items that will be popping up at my local Costco.

I already love Costco but this just made it that much better! It might quite possibly be my ultimate one stop shop!

Things to pick up at Costco:
Eggs
Seaweed
Spinach
Brie
Jameson
YSL Lipstick

Le Awesome.

Sanrio Inspired Nails

When I was growing up, the Sanrio Store was heaven! I remember blowing out my birthday candles in first grade, wishing I could own everything in that store! I think I even prayed to God for that as well. Apparently, my first grade self thought that was what God was for. Oh to be young. Haha. 

*Image from Wikipedia*

My love for Sanrio even continued well through high school, does anyone remember those picture wallets we used to carry around?!

When I walk into a store now, I see all these new characters and I miss seeing all the characters I grew up with. If you know me now, you know I love all things Hello Kitty, but back then, Pochacco was my favorite and I actually didn't like Hello Kitty at all. #Pochacco4life

Every now and then I  have a moment of nostalgia and this time I decided to pay tribute to what I consider Sanrio's all-stars when I was growing up. Enjoy!

Sanrio Nail Art

L-R: Pekkle,
Bad Badtz-Maru,
Kerokerokeroppi,
Pochacco,
Hello Kitty

Who was/is your favorite?

 *Don't forget to check out my instagram: @GaudyGlam for more nail art!

Wet n Wild: Mega Last Lip Color vs Fergie Center Stage Collection Lip Color

So similar and yet slightly different. That's exactly how I would compare Wet n Wild's Mega Last Lip Color line to Fergie's Center Stage Lip Color Line.

Similarities

Lipstick shape- Both are round instead of the traditional lipstick shape that comes to a point

Packaging- Both tubes are made of plastic with clear plastic caps that snap on

*I believe both have the same amount of product- .11oz (but not 100% sure)*

Differences

Size of packaging- Fergie collection is taller, but I believe both carry the same amount of product

Formula/Finish- Fergie collection is a bit creamier/hydrating and has a bit more of a shine finish. This is a subtle difference but I did notice a little more ease when applying the Fergie line lipsticks.

L-Mega Last              R-Fergie Collection

Price- Mega Last is $1.99 and Fergie Collection is $3.99

Color Selection: The Mega Last line offers 26 colors and the Fergie line offers 10 colors.

Final Thoughts

These lipsticks are almost identical products aside from it's exterior packaging. I do think the Fergie collection has a slightly more hydrating formula which is nice. I don't know if it justifies a price difference though, as it is just slightly more smooth. I think the price difference has to do more with packaging costs and the fact that it's a celeb branded line. Eitherway, both lines of lipsticks are wonderful! They both offer great pigmentation, last for hours, and are very affordable! The Mega Last line has more colors to choose from compared to the Fergie line, but the Fergie line does offer shades that are different. With that being said though, I purposely used the 2 colors above to show you the 2 lipsticks that I thought were the most similar between the lines. If you own one of those, you could skip on the other. 

*Direct shopping links provided via ShopSense*