REVIEW | Mary Kay Blue Smoke Beauty Tip

New York Fashion Week has come and gone and there were some extraordinary things to hit the runways. I'm here today not to talk about the fashion--although it was all ON POINT!--but to talk about the makeup that completed the looks.

Celebrity makeup artist, Luis Casco, was inspired by sapphire smoky eyes that hit the streets of NYC and he wanted to create a smoky eye look that could be adapted to daytime activities but easily added to for night. I know a lot of us are a little shy to attempt the smoky eye for a day at work, but after reviewing his inspired looks, I think we all can achieve it!

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REVIEW | Mary Kay Emmy looks

The Emmy awards have come and gone but aside from the jaw-dropping fashion on the red carpet, the celebrities' makeup is always a stunning thing to see. So when Mary Kay contacted me to review some of their products, I am always up to it!

One of the looks they were inspired by was that of Sarah Hyland from Modern Family. Her flawless look with the cropped top and full, floor length skirt with a high bun and bold makeup was a look to be talked about all season.

Ipsy Glam Bag Sept '14 | Street Style

Another month, another Ipsy glam bag. Most summer glam bags are "beachy" and aren't typically something I'd keep in my bag. Don't get me wrong, I'll toss one in my beach bag that holds keys, chapstick, and my ID or something, but a bag like the one I got this month? I'd definitely keep it in my purse to hold some things.

Before I get into the review of these products, I just want to throw out there that if you're wanting more things you'd use on a more regular basis, I'd highly suggest updating your Ipsy profile. I updated mine to be more makeup oriented before I signed back up at the end of July so that I'd quit getting things I wouldn't use, like hand cream, bb cream, or hair conditioner.

Oh Anastacia, you have my heart.

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I know I'm a little a lot behind on this trend, but I'm oh so glad that I'm now on the contouring train. In case you have no idea about these contouring and highlighting palettes, give me a second to enlighten you. Anastasia Beverly Hills created it for all levels of makeup artists and it was made in a time where there weren't many options. You had to buy each color separately, which blew because they can get expensive. 

The original palette has the colors in the picture above and included three highlight and three contour colors. From R to L: top--Vanilla, Banana, Sand; bottom--Java, Fawn, Havana. The exciting thing is that the pans are sold separately as refills now so you can continue to get the default colors or you can pick from the other 27 colors in the collection.

REVIEW + a winner!!

I don't know what it is about Mary Kay products lately, but they've definitely been upping their game! I think part of the reason is because they've been featured on the new season of Project Runway as the product the makeup artists use to complete the designers' looks. Unfortunately for myself, we don't have that TV channel anymore so I have to watch episodes online. Regardless, now's your time to shine, Mary Kay. Don't disappoint!

I received product last week to review their newer emerald smoky eye collection. I know I haven't done much "marketing" for le blog, but I had a giveaway!! And before I get into details for more product I received recently, I wanted to announce that winner and their names are Lauren K. and Christy P! So if you're reading this post today, be looking out for an email so that I can get your info to send you this product. Congrats!!!

Today's post leads me to another review of Mary Kay product. Another one of Project Runway's first makeup looks from the premier night was about graphic blue cat eyes and playful pink lips. It's so much fun switching up your routine and rocking something like a blue eye liner. So when I had the chance to review more MK product, I jumped at the offer!

I feel like Picasso with my new brushes.

I've finally decided that now was the time to purchase some new makeup brushes. I think I've had the ones I'm currently using for about three years now and I know that doesn't seem like that much time, but with daily makeup application, they can start to get yucky. Even with cleaning them, they don't always get back to their original condition.

Beauty gurus, Sam and Nic Chapman, helped design Real Technique brushes and they have been getting quite the good review. So I've joined in on the fun and made a purchase for myself!! And once you see the pricing that I'll list below, you'll first want to pick your jaw up from the floor, but then you can be like me and get some for yourself.

From left to right: Powder brush, Expert Face brush (I got it for free!), Blush brush, Setting brush, Shading brush, and the Starter set (includes a deluxe crease brush, a base shadow brush, accent brush, brow brush, and fine liner brush)

REVIEW: My first Makeup Geek purchase and I'm geekin' out!!

Hello again!

I've recently been following Samantha's IG from Batalash Beauty and through her list of makeup products have found the company, Makeup Geek (MUG). I began to do a little research because based on her reviews, the quality was that of MAC but half the price. I love MAC products, but c'mon, I can't be poppin' out $14 every time I want to try a new eye shadow.

At the moment, there are several colors of shadow out in their online store so I decided to try out four of their pan shadows, one loose pigment, and it's possible that I bought more of the NYX eye pencil in Milk. Shh, don't tell my husband.


From top right, counterclockwise: MUG Eye Shadow in Mercury, MUG Shimma Shimma, NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk, MUG Burlesque, MUG Moondust, MUG Loose Pigment in Sweet Dreams (in the middle of my hand by itself)

REVIEW: Mary Kay Smoky Emerald Project Runway look

Hi there, friends!!

I cannot get enough of the color green lately. All shades are getting to me, deep within my soul, that just makes me feel like a million bucks. My favorite is probably the mint green and emerald shades so I was stoked to receive the emerald Mary Kay Color Design Studio Collection from the premier of the new season of Project Runway. The designers will be finishing off all of their looks with these products so you can imagine that I'd want to jump the Gunn (haha) and review these puppies. Keep reading if you'd like to read my review!

Unapologetic says it all.

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I've done it again. I can't say that I'm ashamed; my purse just gets heavier by the week. If you follow me on Instagram (@lipstickskulls, formerly @mrsmeghanlee) then you'd know I have an obsession with Revlon's Colorburst Lip Balms. The first two I bought were the matte shades--Sultry and Shameless--and I was immediately amazed at how creamy and full my lips looked with that matte formula. And over time I've picked up some of the Just Bitten Lip Balms that have a little more shine to them--Sweetheart Valentine, Rendezvous, and Darling Cherie.

Last night as I was picking up some things at the grocery store, I walked past the makeup aisle and it didn't take me one second to grab a new shade off the shelf. It might not be the best place for the best deal but I didn't care one bit.

I don't ever remember seeing this color in the past so it could be new. Well it's new to me now! Revlon Colorburst Matte Lip Balm in  Unapologetic has got to be one of the prettiest "coral" colors to wear this spring and summer. I bet it will complement any shade of skin with its' tone. It's not so neon as some other lipstick brands have come out with as their "summer collection" but still brings a pop of color that will brighten any day.

And surely I'm not a pristine eater and drinker but this stuff stays on for a long time. The only time I noticed it starting to wear thin was in my very inner lips and it was right after I was practically sucking the last bits of birthday cake icing from a fork at 3:30 in the afternoon.

The one thing I will mention is that although I'm in LOVE with this new lip crayon, you might shy away from it if you don't wear it that often. It's a bold statement and if you're not ready to own it, then it will own you.

So go out and own the world! Act like you know what you're doing, bright lipstick and all, and the world will treat you nicely. Okay, so maybe not the wisest of words, but I'm trying to get your confidence in the right place, dammit...Janet!

I wore Unapologetic with my scrubs to work today. BAM! (I just realized it looks more red here but I promise it's an amazing coral color! Just trust me!!)

I'm linking up with Random Wednesday, The Hump Day Blog Hop, and I Feel Pretty.

Look what I got!! Oh wait, that's a LOT of orange.

I went to our local flea market (between two cold snaps) a few weeks ago and it was HEAVENLY. I don't know about you, but I could spend some serious money there. They've got food, makeup, furniture, jewelry, pet items, clothes, and other home items. You can even find some good lube and baby dolls; whatever tickles your fancy.

I told myself that buying from the flea market was okay because it was cheaper and I wouldn't be spending much even if I did have a basketful of makeup items in my hand. And if you're wondering, yes, I'm still sticking with my spending budget. As of this shopping trip, I still had some to spend. BUT, by today, it's all gone. I'll have to wait until May when I get more for my birthday.

These are the things that came home with me that day. And as you can tell, there's quite a bit of orange things. Why, you might ask? 

As you may or may not know, orange is one of spring's hottest colors. I discovered a beautiful orange shade of lipstick by Rimmel back in the Fall and have been in love ever since. I know you might turn your nose up at the color, but with the right shade, it can pair very well with your skin tone. Just trust me on this one. Come find me, I'll find some lipstick for you and you'll see how amazing it is.

1 | Revlon PhotoReady Blush in Coral Reef
I have a new found love for creme blushes. I was always uncomfortable with the application so I just didn't fool with it. I found this stuff pretty cheap buried beneath some other crap and it's a beautiful color! It seriously is just the right amount of coral to brighten your face.

2 | Maybelline Master Glaze Blush Stick in Coral Sheen
This blush stick actually came from Wally World, but I bought it before I got the Revlon product above. They are 97% the same shade. I'll probably end up returning this one. It has a little bit of shimmer to it, which can be nice, but I'm digging the other one more.

3 | L'Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara in Blackest Black
I wasn't in the need for mascara at the time, but I love this brand usually ONLY for their mascaras. This one's good to take with me while I'm on the go. I have others that I use when I want more drama.

4 | Maybelline Eyestudio Gel Eyeliner in Eggplant
Gel eyeliners are always so much fun to play with, especially when they're purple! Gel glides on smooth like a pencil but it's so quick to be a mess like with liquid liner. If you haven't tried gel, why not get it with a funky color?! Purple is dark enough that it looks just like black.

5 | Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya
I've also just recently began a love affair with Revlon's lip butters. They are so freakin' nice feeling on my lips. I could just purse them together all day long. This one is my suggestion if you're wanting to try out the orange but are scared with your first pick. This is a sheer orange and super moisturizing like chapstick so I'm sure you can get the hang of it.

6 | Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Rendevous
See? I told you I got a lot of orange things. If you've already tried out the color, this one is a must!! The lip crayon is easy to apply and is this gorgeous coral color. I wear it at least once a week.

7 | Covergirl Blast FlipStick in Cheeky
This one I have yet to wear in public. I tried them both on when I first brought it home but I've got a trillion lip products at this point and it's hard to choose just one!! This shade has a beautiful coral and a lighter, shimmery coral on the other end. Muey bein!

8 | Covergirl Color Sensational Limited Edition Lipstick in Fuchsia Fierce
I cannot get over this HOT summer color! I think I'm just going to start buying all my friends a shade like this for birthdays and Christmas and such and break them away from their usual makeup routine. I'm telling you, a lipstick like this will change everything.

9 | Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Darling Cherie
This shade is straight up lilac and I've honestly never worn a color like this. On my lips, it's different than I would have expected. The pastel perks up any outfit and I love getting a little bold with it. Why not try out lilac on my lips, right?!

10 | Sally Hansen Zero Bumps Bikini Spray
I don't know who thought of this stuff but it's pretty amazing! Whatever chemicals are in it really do what it tells you it will do. There are times where I have horrible razor bumps in my bikini line and they aren't all that pretty. This spray helps them go away! All you gotta do is spray it in that area, and the ingredients start to work their magic. It's pretty cool.

11 | Scunci No Damage Polybands

I have been ON THE HUNT for these tiny elastics for the past few months. My hair has just gotten several inches past my shoulders and is at prime braiding length. It just sucks because the only hair ties I have are the skinny black ones. I knew stores sold the plastic bands but all I could find were packs of like 5000. My friend stumbled upon these, a pack of 75, for like a buck.

Have you been doing any beauty hauls now that Spring is quickly approaching?? Comment below and let me know if there are more products I need to look in to or if I need to hunt them down at the flea market!

I'm linking up with Mingle Monday, Manic Monday, Monday Morning Gossip, Mix it Monday, and Funday Monday.

NYX Wonder Pencil--My dupe.

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I don't have a problem admitting this, but I follow a lot of beauty bloggers. I think we can all say the same. If we gear more towards makeup and skincare, we should follow beauty bloggers. If we only post about fashion or your life as mom, it's fitting to follow that particular topic of interest.

There's a specific blogger I just recently started following, like two months ago, and she posted about the NYX Wonder Pencil. Heard of it? Nope, me either. BUT! I have heard of NYX and tried a few of their products so I was interested in what she had to say.

She talked about how this one pencil could be used in more than one way. And as cheap as NYX is, I was excited to add it to my online shopping cart and wait for its' delivery.

After I did my mom's makeup a few weeks ago, I realized I had a product very similar to this beauty blogger. So rather than wasting $6 on it, I should try out what I already have, right? Right.

If you remember from that post, I used the L'Oreal Double Extend Eye Illuminator Eyeliner in Black Quartz. Which I'm not really sure why that's the name because it's a brown pencil. The other end of the pencil is the illuminating part and is almost exactly the same color as this NYX Wonder Pencil.

So I'm taking the advice of my fellow beauty blogger and trying out her tips. Here are four different ways you can use an illuminating pencil like both of the products we have.

[ONE] Bump Cover-up
If it's light enough, this pencil can be used to cover up a bump that appeared overnight.

[TWO] Tear Duct + Waterline Highlighter
If you swipe the pencil a little in the inner corners of your eyes, near the tear ducts, or along your waterline, it will give you a bright-eyed and awake look. I know there are some mornings that we all need that!

[THREE] Invisible Lip Liner
This is where it could get a little tricky. Some highlighting pencils have some shimmer to them. So if you are using this as an invisible lip liner, just BLEND BLEND BLEND. But if there is shimmer, only apply it at the cupid's bow and beneath your lower lip. Still blend away.

[FOUR] Brow Highlighter
This one is the easy tip. Swipe the pencil just under your eyebrows to highlight that point. It can also give more definition to brows after they've been filled in with brow shadow. But don't leave it looking like a drawn line. Blend it so that it's seamless from your brow to the eyeshadow-filled crease area.

Have you tried the Wonder Pencil yet? Or do you have a dupe like me just chilling in your makeup bag that you didn't realize was even there? 

What other pencils have you tried similar to these? Do you have any other tips to share? I'd love to hear in your comments :-)

I'm linking up with Manic Monday, Monday Morning Gossip, Mingle Monday, and Funday Monday.

(Source for Wonder Pencil image. Source for Eye Illuminator image.)

Chapstick Spring Line

I was contacted by an Assistant Account Executive at Chapstick to review their new Spring line of chapstick flavors and I was delighted to say yes! Although this is not a paid sponsorship, all opinions are my own. I was provided with four samples, two of each flavor, so keep reading for my review!

Disclosure: The Chapstick product and information have been provided by Pfizer Consumer Health.

I don't know about any of you, but Chapstick has been a brand that has been with me since I was about ten years old. Maybe even younger. They are probably one of the only ones with a consistent formula that keeps my lips hydrated and soft ALL DAY LONG.

I recently fell in love with the Chapstick 8-hour Hydration Lock in Vanilla from a previous Birchbox. It's so smooth and the vanilla smells amazing. When I received these samples, I hoped they'd be the same way. And I definitely wasn't disappointed.

 

The two flavors, Pomegranate Gumdrop and Citrus Jelly Bean, remind me of Easter. It brings me back to all of the candy that I munched on from the Easter Egg Hunts when I was a kid. Warning. Do not eat your new chapstick like Easter candy. I repeat. Do NOT eat your chapstick like Easter candy.

--Side story-- I knew this kid in 6th and 7th grade that was in Chorus with me. The one thing I remember about him? He used to eat, literally, Chapstick every day in class. Gag me now.

--Back on track--

Being that I'm on this fresh health-kick, boy do I miss my candy. But, by applying either of these new scents, I not only smell the sweet flavors, but every now and then I can taste them if I lick my lips. I'm all for a guilt-free smidgen of my favorite Easter candies.

SQUEE.

My favorite is probably the Pomegranate Gumdrop. Don't get me wrong, I love citrus-y things, but the other appealed to me more. They both will be available for a limited time at all Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens stores beginning March 1st. So why not stock up for your kiddos' Easter baskets? Or if they love candy just as much as I do, buy in bulk and they can have candy-flavored Chapsticks all year long. WE ALL WIN!

I hope you all go out and buy one, or both, of these Spring Chapstick flavors for a friend and maybe it'll perk them up for the upcoming season. I know I'm ready for Spring. How about you??!

I'm linking up with All Things Thursday, Look What I Got, and Tres Chic Thursday.