Mahya Minerals Sugar Plum & Starry Night Eyeshadow Look

Wow! I didn't expect Twilight to be this big of a hit with me but man did it blow me away! Sugar Plum is ridiculously stunning, very much like dragon scales. It goes on a lot like something I expect from a gothic collection, devastatingly beautiful. Its a deep well marooned red with a bit of a green iridescence. Its also insanely pigmented, especially over the Mayha eyeshadow base which I used here. I applied Starry Night in the outer corner. In case you missed my review & swatches of the Mahya Glitters this is one that is mixed with pigment. It is a blackened grey, smoky pigment with silver & dark grey/pewter glitter. This also went on seamlessly. Love love love everything about this combo. & now for pictures!

Anastasia See & Be Seen Kit Review & Swatches

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to play with & review the Anastasia  Beverly Hills See & Be Seen Kit. This is a Limited Edition set so I URGE you to pick it up ASAP if you like what you see! You only have a few weeks so jump on it! This set is worth $80 but you can pick it up for only $44 right now! You get 2 full size glosses, tinted brow gel, & an eyeshadow duo. Keep reading for swatches & overall thoughts!

Travel: Travalo Review, Demo, & Why You Need One

What Travalo Says: Travalo is a refillable atomizer bottle with a difference. Its patented easy fill system allows you to refill in seconds with a simple repeat pump action. Travalo makes it easy and convenient to have a fresh confidence boost any time, anywhere.

Directions: Remove the spray head from your perfume bottle. Place your Travalo upright on top of the nozzle peg, and repeatedly pump it up and down to fill. You can tell how much is in your perfume atomizer bottle by the fill level indicator window. Do not overfill!

Clearly, I think this little gadget is brilliant. I received my Travalo in the shade "Classic Excel Gold" & I surprisingly don't mind the shade. Some golds can look kind of cheap, but this has a nice finish.  As you can tell by the video, this is extremely easy. All around a fantastic product & a must-have for travel in my book. This particular Travalo comes with a carrying case as well. I found this to be unnecessary but I appreciate it for its packaging & the "just in case" factor. I haven't had this leak on me once. In fact, I've had many other travel sized fragrances crack, spill, leak, & even shatter on me in the past so that's a huge plus.


These are very reasonable & I'm even saving money because I can buy the larger bottles of perfume & not the more compact sizes. They have different prices for different models but the one I have shown here is $20, your average price for a sample of your favorite perfume. I'd like some in more colors so I will be able to tell them apart as well, love the bright shades! Other models range from  around $10-$20 & they have some accessories available as well.

Have you picked up a Travalo? Thinking about it? What is YOUR most irritating bottle of perfume to travel with?


Product provided for review but all opinions expressed are my own. This is seriously a brilliant invention & I want at least 2-3 more of them! 

If you're interested in purchasing one:

www.us.travalo.com

FB: travalo Americas

Twitter:  TravaloAmericas

The Beauty Blog Coalition 4th of July Competition- TWO Winners of a $300 VISA GC!

The Beauty Blog Coalition members may not all be American, but we do love to celebrate all holidays with our friends, so we bring you the 4th of July Competition, with not one but two $300 USD Visa gift cards!

All terms and conditions may be found at the bottom of the Rafflecopter widget. • Competition ends July 5th, 2012. • You may enter on any of the blogs below - Rafflecopter won't allow you enter twice. • You may tweet about the giveaway (the last option in the Rafflecopter) every day for extra entries!

Please visit the lovely sponsors of this competition!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic	Beauty and Fashion Tech
Beauty by Miss L	Beauty Info Zone
BeautyTidbits	Blushing Basics
BlushingNoir	Bottles and Bottles of Polish
Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom	Cosmetically Challenged
Emily Hudspeth, hair design and makeup artist	Endless Summer
Future Derm	Geniabeme Beauty Blog
Making Up the Midwest	Midnight Manicures
Moxie Reviews	My Beauty Bunny
My Highest Self	My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog
Nails and Noms	NaturallyNancy1
Oh So Lacquered	Peek.Ponder.Publish
Perilously Pale	Phyrra
Polarbelle	polish insomniac
PolishGalore	Prime Beauty
retrodivas beauty	Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful
The Pink Sith Blog	thefabzilla.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

LA IMATS 2012 Shoutout, See You There!

Hey guys! The time has come, finally IMATS! For those that aren't familiar, IMATS stands for the International Makeup Trade Show. A bunch of brands (NYX, Urabn Decay, BH Cosmetics, MakeUp For Ever, Lime Crime, & Inglot to name just a few!) get together & offer (usually) pretty substantial discounts. You also have the opportunity to attend some classes, see incredible exhibits, & its also some great socialization. Tickets this ear are completely SOLD OUT.

While most people went today, I'm heading out tomorrow (Sunday the 24th) & will be shopping my brains out. Mainly I'll be the rep for Hair Products Pro which means some pictures will be up on my site & some on theirs. If you're there tomorrow, just let me know! I'd love to meet you! If you went today...what did you score?

Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup

• The Click You're It! Holiday Eye Palette started an obsession! Check out Mama Fashionista's top picks from Smashbox Cosmetics.
• Retrodiva has a holy grail alert! If you have oily skin and are tired of the "makeup slide" you will need to check out her new holy grail must-have.
• Glitter.Gloss.Garbage changes her mind about her favorite travel atomizer. It's Flo and she's giving one away!
• BlushingNoir has found the perfect Summer lip color in the MAC Beth Ditto Collection! BOOYAH!!!
• Blushing Basics shares her [awkward] style evolution with you. So she had a few-several-different hair colors, so what?
• You know you should wear some sort of sunblock every day, but so many people just won't! Here are 10 effective alternatives to sun block for Summer, suggested by The Advice Sisters, that will save your skin without having to apply a traditional cream or lotion.
• If you are looking for the perfect sun-kissed blush- then Lola from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog wants to share her love of Chi Chi Liquid Blush from Susan Thompson Cosmetics. It is a gorgeous must-have blush for the summer months!
• Want to win the latest from Suave Beauty? Curls N Pearls is giving away three sets of Everlasting Sunshine Body Wash & Lotion! Just leave a comment to enter!
• Harshleen from BeautyTidbits lists her top summer beauty picks. Check out the makeup products she’s totally hooked on right now!
• TheFabZilla was surprised to see "Made in China" label from tarte's eyeshadow palette. Known to be cruelty-free, she asked the company regarding their no-animal testing policy. Read tarte's response as they explain the difference between "made" and "sold" in China.
• Stephanie Louise of All Things Beautiful is showing off some fab Pacifica fragrances, all perfect for travel! From California Star Jasmine to Hawaiian Ruby Guava, something will definitely catch your fancy!
• Its that time again.. see what Geniabeme got in her June Little Black Bag! Theres lots of pictures of all her goodies!
• Phyrra is entrenched in an epic Battle of the Taupes! See which Taupe comes out on top!
• Marcia from Beauty Info Zone is also entrenched in the Battle of the Taupes. She and Phyrra didn't pick the same taupe so come see what taupe comes out on top for her.
• Laura from My Newest Addiction shares photos and opinions on the Zoya Beach and Summer Pinterest Trio!
• Jessika from polish insomniac jumps into the Makeup Wars - Battle of the Taupe Shadows with her guns blazing - is her Wet n Wild shade a winner in your book?
• Freshly back from Palm Beach, the Beauty Professor shares swatches of ALL twelve shades of her latest foundation discovery from Le Metier de Beaute.
• Do you know how many Indie Polish Brands are out there? Gia of Bottles and Bottles of Polish found a list of 166 brands, with links included- see which ones you like, and support small businesses by rocking a fabulous manicure!
• The Makeup Wars have started! Several beauty bloggers are battling it out over who makes the best taupe eyeshadow. See what taupes that were sent to battle from Pammy Blogs Beauty's makeup collection. These Makeup Wars girls love their taupes! 
• Ro shows us how to achieve her simple summer makeup look on Creatively Yours by Ro.
• Zoya Isabel is a gorgeous shade of shimmery red...but what happens when it gets the doticure treatment?
• Happy Summer, everyone! Check out Anisha's California sunset inspired look using Sugarpill eyeshadows. It's fun, colorful, and oh-so-very wearable!
• Kim Porter is giving you the opportunity to win stylish Jamberry Nail Covers.  These easy to apply, stylishly designed nail covers will keep your nails on-point all summer long!
• At Midnight Manicures, check out Water Marbling with Patricia and see this nail art technique at it's best.
• Spontaneous Chic got to try out and and couldn't wait to post an Armour Beauty review.
• The Big Reveal has finally come, says Emily Hudspeth! Part 3 or "The After" of the makeover series for this soon to be new mom is up! Now is time to show her as an "after". Next up, her makeup lesson.
• The Crumpet and 5 other Super Brits have been doing a Superheroes and Villlains nail art challenge - check out her Wonder Woman nails here -
• Lynn at Oh So Lacquered does some nail art this week and reveals the inspiration behind a simple stripe accent nail.
• Beauty from Liz is excited, because Maxfactor decided to sell nailpolishes in Estonia. Of course she got Fantasy Fire, but what else, please read here.
• Check out Beauty and Fashion Tech's MAC Satin Taupe and NARS Lhasa swatches and makeup look in the Makeup Wars Battle of the Taupes!
• Girl Gloss reviews Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lip Color.
• BeautyJudy found a mate for her bottle of French's Spicy Brown mustard. Bye bye, hot dogs. No, seriously. Check out this indie polish!
• Cosmetically Challenged says summer doesn't mean you can't wear foundation! Tinted Moisturizers allow you stay beautiful and protect you from the sun.
• Get a bronzed glow without the sun damage. Enter to win Borghese Splendore Body Bronzer from Lipgloss Break!
• Mina finally found a natural bar soap she loves, head over to Fabulous Awesomeness to see what she thinks of Reviva Labs Seaweed Soap!
• The weather in Estonia is getting warmer and warmer and so Miss L from Beauty by Miss L decided to do a bright summery water marble mani.
• Want big hair with lots of oomph? Hello Dollface tries new BangStyle for voluminous hair.
• Nails Beautiqued is showing how nailart doesn't have to be difficult.  Nail Modes to the rescue!
• Perilously Pale has found her perfect pinky nude with Giorgio Armani Rouge d'Armani Beige.

Under the Boardwalk Hand Mixed Polish from Nails by Laura Swatches + Breakdown

Love bright lights? Glitter? To be stopped on the street so people can demand to know where you got your nail polish from? Then this polish is for you! Crazy eye catching & pretty much the only thing you'll be able to focus on even hours after application. To see the next polish I'll be reviewing from Nails By Laura, check out my Nail Mail post & view the magnificence that is "Black Tie Affair" nail polish.

Travel: My Mini Fragrances I Brought on Vacation

I absolutely love perfumes. Whenever I travel I seem to way over pack. I love selection from socks to nail files & to you guessed it....fragrances! Here are some of my absolute favorites, many of which I took with me to California! These are in no specific order!

1. Victoria's Secret Bombshell Mini Perfume---which came with THIS set.

2. DKNY Double Ended Rollerball--- Also check out DKNY Fresh Blossom Juiced which is pretty amazing!

3. L'Occitane Pivoine Délicate Roll-On & Gloss Duo--- Review & the gloss swatched right HERE!

4. Sula Full Size Rollerball in Blackberry Blush--- A blast from the past review on this beauty can be scored right HERE.

5. Sula Mini in Champagne Sugar ---No review on this set of 6 I bought from Ulta. Its no longer available on Ulta's site, but you can check it out on Sula's site.

6. Pacifica Hawiian Ruby Guava--- Link HERE

7. Ulta Brand On-the-Go Fragrance in Pink Petals --- Another flashback review from way early on can be found HERE.

8. Pacifica Solid Fragrance in Indian Coconut Nectar--- My favorite layering solid! Link HERE

9. Pacifica Solid Fragrance in California Star Jasmine ---Link HERE

10. Pacifica Solid Fragrance in Tuscan Blood Orange ---Link HERE

11.My Travalo full of Lola by Marc Jacobs --- My Travalo review is on its away...hint...fab!

What are some of your favorite fragrances? What about for travel? Do you prefer rollerballs or sprays?

Some of these products were sent for review while others were bought with my own funds.

California Nail Polish Haul...So Far...

So I've hit up Ross, CVS, Rite Aid, Big Lots & Forever 21 & walked out with nail polish. Shocking? No I suppose not! This is just going to be a quick post, I'll describe them as I swatch them. As always, if there's anything you're dying to see, just let me know!

Forever 21 Green/Clear & Crystal/Multi. Unoriginal names...FABULOUS polishes.

 LA Girl Black Light Nail Polish Disco Brites in Vinyl Record & Sinful Colors Nail Polish in Citrine.

Two Cosmetic Arts Professional Nail Lacquers without names. The left is a bright, hot pink & the right is a cantaloupe.  When I swatch them I'll have to color correct them most likely.

 I picked up these Revlons at a Big Lots in sets of 2 for $2 per pair. At a buck a piece these were a steal. I love suede polish but the scented glass flecks are the gem! Green is Emerald City, purple is No Shrinking Violet, the hot pink is Watermelon Fizz, & the yellow is Pinapple Fizz.

 I've never tried anything from what I assume is JLB Nail Polish...if not let me know. This was a set that just jumped out at me. Perfect spring shades in there right??? I'm in LOVE with the bronze on the top that has a pink shimmer flash in it. The glitter is pretty but I'll have to see it on.

 So my major find! Color Club is a brand I really like but they can be super pricey....except at Ross! This had a damaged polish in it so not only was it cheaper BUT it has the flakie I wanted! WIN! The polish that was broken was pretty but I think i already have something similar! The rest of the shades are fab as well!

Dazzle Dry Vegan Nail Polish System + Mythic Teal

Dazzle Dry dries in under 5 minutes, strengthens nails, is non-yellowing, vegan, & applies like normal nail polish. So when I had the opportunity to review it, I excitedly accepted! I am a nail polish junkie so of course I needed to!

What Dazzle Dry Says: About the single color: Fast drying! Dazzle Dry nail colors; nitrocellulose free, toluene free, formaldehyde free, phthalate free, plus UV protection for long lasting color. Beautiful colors, Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquers, perfect for acrylic nail polish and natural nail polish.

About the trio: This convenient package consists of Nail Prep 1oz, Dazzle Dry Base Coat .5oz  and Dazzle Dry Top Coat .5oz.  Instructions are photographically presented in the brochure enclosed in each box.  Ingredients and warnings for the components are printed on the box and can also be found under the respective components on our site.

What I Say:  Let's look at the 3 piece set first. This contains the  Nail Prep 1oz, Dazzle Dry Base Coat .5oz  and Dazzle Dry Top Coat .5oz.

The Nail Prep works great & its pretty easy. Just put it on a cotton pad & prep the nails. The base coat applies average & I really like it. I'm not really picky about base coats though unless my nails are a wreck. The top coat is fabulous & remind me a lot of Seche Vite. For those of you who don't know of or use Seche Vite (SHAME!) this is a rich, thick, & extra glossy protective top coat.

Now let's talk about Mythic Teal, the shade I'm wearing. It dries really then which I like because the dry time is crazy fast. This dries with a somewhat suede texture & appearance: matte with a type of softness. After the top coat it looks perfect. This is 2 coats of Mythic Teal.

I haven't tried this polish without the kit yet so I will have to let you know what I think of it!

Pricing: You can purchase these from an external site HERE called VB Cosmetics. Polishes are $9.00 & the 3 Piece set is $28.50.

So does a system like this interest you? Would you like to see more colors? Any you would particularly like to see swatched? You can see the full line on the Dazzle Dry website & there are quite a few I'd like to try! I think the ones I want to try for spring/summer most are Calypso Romance, Watermelon Slice, Amber Jewel Effects, & Oasis.

Product sent by PR for review.

Travel: My Pacifica Items Including Solid Fragrances!

My favorite thing about my Pacifica collection is each & every item can be tossed in my purse & taken with me anywhere. Not to say all the Pacifica brand is made to do this, but all of these happen to be travel friendly. Some I even consider necessities for traveling!

Let's start off with my favorite products from this brand: the solid fragrances! I am a FIRM believer in solid fragrances for travel especially because these tins are able to take a beating, don't have to be part of the flying rules since they aren't liquid, & smell absolutely incredible.

 The scents I have are as follows & the scent descriptions in Italic are from the Pacifica website:

1. California Star Jasmine: A love note to my Southern California beachside neighborhood, the scent truly embodies the time and place I now call home. The laidback simplicity of the dreamy blend makes it fun and easy to wear, bringing a breath of fresh California air to your day.


2. Tahitian Gardenia: The Gardenia is the most nostalgic flower, whose enthralling vintage perfume has the power to conjure up memories in an instant. Gardenias are said to be the blossoms of love. This is one of Pacifica's all time best selling floral scents with true devotees.


3. Tuscan Blood Orange: In this delectable blend, juicy and spicy Blood Orange is offset with subtle Strawberry and Raspberry notes and grounded in fleshy Mandarin and Italian Sweet Orange.  An orange connoisseur's dream.


4. Brazilian Mango Grapefruit: A cross between Peach and Apricot with Pineapple undertones, this delicious blend mingles sultry, fleshy Mango with bright, tart Grapefruit. Reminiscent of summer.


5. Indian Coconut Nectar: Pacifica’s Indian Coconut Nectar is a sensuous and delicious blend inspired by travels to faraway destinations. This warm, sultry blend of coconut and delicate creamy vanilla is pure ambrosia.

My absolute favorite is the California Star Jasmine but that is one of those strange personal preferences. I've always loved Jasmine & I feel glamorous & effortless wearing it. I think the most versatile of these is the Indian Coconut Nectar which gives an exotic flare other perfumes when layered atop. My husband likes the Tuscan Blood Orange which makes me want to drink loads of mimosas. Brazilian Mango Grapefruit is the juciest fragrance I've ever encountered in a solid form. The fruits are really lively & it is truly unique. Gardenia smells so sophisticated to me & I often wear it when I want to feel professional & confident. I've had some of these for years, they last & last!

I love rollerballs as much as the next girl, & this one is no exception. What makes it so great? The scent of course!


Hawaiian Ruby Guava: This blend was inspired by one of my favorite surf trips to Hawaii. We spent hours sitting on the lanai watching the waves, the warm smell of coconut wax on our surfboards mingling with the sweet scent of the guavas from the tree in front of our house. This blend is reminiscent of paradise.

As if I needed to say more than just the scent right? Immediately I think of tropical islands & sunny beaches. I love this energetic & very different blend which fits easily into my purse. I brought this one with me to California....doesn't it just seem like it belongs by the beach?

Pacifica Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint in Guava Berry: Give your lips the love they deserve!  All Natural Color Quench packs major moisture, nourishing naturals and gorgeous, sheer color into one perfectly portable, 100% recyclable tube.  Essential fatty acids from rich and amazing avocado and coconut oils leave lips luscious and healthy.  Natural flavor and 4 perfect shades produce the prettiest, most kissable mouth ever.  100% vegan.  Your lips will love you back!

I love tinted lip products, especially for the summer when I want a wash of color without much effort. These are very moisturizing, sheer, & give off a nice shine. This color is more of a berry purple but I think I want to try one that is a bit more natural. My issue with this product is that its a rather wide top so I have to make sure it only goes on my lips & not the skin around it. They have a Blood Orange flavor & I think I'll try that one next since I love the fragrance so much!

Pacifica Body Butter (2.5 oz) in Island Vanilla: Inspired by the unique magic of Tahitian vanilla, this sensual blend sets sweet and sultry vanilla absolute, with honey-jasmine notes and a touch of fruitiness, against a deep and beautiful base of tea.

I love this scent of body butter! I actually thought it would be like my Indian Coconut Nectar which isn't as complex. It smells rich, very expensive! This is probably the most interesting & exciting vanilla based scent I own. Usually they are vanilla + blackberry or vanilla + orchids. Its rare I buy something that is prominently vanilla so if you usually don't go for vanilla because its not enticing enough, this is one to check into! Its nice & thick but not so thick that I can't use it on my hands as well.

So that's my Pacifica collection! I think they have a fabulous range of fragrances although clearly my tastes lean more fruity. I can't wait to try more, they just have the best combinations! Do you own any Pacifica items? Any of these catch your eye?

*This post has a mix of products provided to me by the company/PR & items I have purchased with my own money. I always post my honest opinions regardless.

Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup

• Is your hair and skin dry and damaged? MyStyleBell explains the difference between Argan Oil and Grapeseed Oil and explains which one is better for your hair.
• Are you interested in trying a monthly sample service for beauty products? Emily has tried a few and was happy with the first impression of Sample Society by beautybar.com. See what came in the June Sample Society box!
• Everything has a scent, even cold!  Designer Serge Lutens celebrates it in his avant-garde, new fragrance, l'eau Froide. Alison Blackman of the Advice Sisters checks out the fragrance and gives a report.  Cool yourself all Summer long!
• Miss L from Beauty by Miss L tried L´Oreal Youth Code Luminize Super Serum and now shares her thoughts about it.
• Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom showcases polishes inspired by the movie Snow White and the Huntsman.
• Glitter.Gloss.Garbage has swatches of MAC Casual Colour.
• Brooke from BlushingNoir shows you what is in her first (and second!) Little Black Bag with this open box video!
• BeautyJudy wear-tests, reviews and shares swatches of Dermelect's new ME Anti-Aging Color Nail Lacquers. Do theydeliver on the company's promise of chip-resistance and nail strengthening? Find out!
• BeautyTidbits is giving away a bunch of new NIVEA skincare goodies and a trendy beach tote to get you ready for the beach season!
• Phyrra brings you the best in bright hair from Premiere Beauty Orlando.
• The Pink Sith yammers on about mermaids and cable TV, but she shows you some awesome pictures of Models Own Nail Polish in Indian Ocean while she does it.
• Take the headache out of nail art and try this simple trick from Blushing Basics.
• Are you looking for a great peel for summer-ready glowing skin? Lola from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog is a huge fan of Suki Renewal Bio-Surfacing Facial Peel because it's natural, vegan, and highly effective!
• There are some big-name must-haves out there, but when you shop locally a whole new world can open up for a beauty enthusiast! Follow Bailey around a farmers market and see what local beauty she finds.
• Beauty Info Zone wants to teach you about double cleansing with Dermalogica PreCleanse. They also want one US reader to win the product to see how great it is for themselves.
• Beauty and Fashion Tech looks at some truly odd beauty items with The 8 Strangest Beauty Products.
• Girl Gloss has a MAC Casual Colour Collection Swatch of the Shade Keep it Casual.
• How do you remove your makeup? TheFabZilla tried a gamut of ways but got hooked with Micellar water. Check out her recent faves.
• It is Giveaway time over at Pammy Blogs Beauty! So, head on over to enter to win a Total Beauty Collection sample box!
• Polarbelle spends a little time getting her nautical on with the Mac Hey, Sailor eyeshadows.
• Nails and Noms shows us some pretties from the new indie kid on the block, Cirque Nail Polish with their Dark Horse Collection!
• The Makeup Divas shares swatches and reviews MAC Ditto Shade & Smoke Shadow Liners.
• Have you been searching for a Polish that wears like a Gel? Midnight Manicures presents Dazzle Dry, it's vegan, big 5-Free and dries in 5 minutes!
• Want a tan without the wrinkles? Lipgloss Break reviews Dr. Dennis Gross's New Glow Pad sunless tanning towels.
• Playing Russian Roulette with your Hair? Cosmetically Challenged gives you three tips to help keep you and your hair safe.
• Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful is traveling across the country & shows you the L'Occitane Verbena Sachet & Fragrance/Gloss Duo that are traveling must haves!
• Gia of Bottles and Bottles of Polish wore 3 purple polishes at the same time- check out how amazing they looked together
• Where the party at? Lynn shows you the After Party on her nails over at Oh So Lacquered.
• Always on the search for great makeup, Christina of Curls N Pearls shares a review of the RevitaLash Spotlight Highlighting Pencil. Check out what she thinks!
• Nails Beautiqued has some summertime fun mouthwatering hues for your nails?  Checkout Jessica Gelato Maio Collection.
• Always looking for the best in skin care, Spontaneous Chick posted 4 avocado face masks that work.
• Hello Dollface copies Julianne Hough's natural makeup for a pretty daytime look. Will you see Rock of Ages this weekend?
• Geniabeme has a bright FOTD using Kiss My Sass Cosmetics!
• Do you believe in happy endings? Mina of Fabulous Awesomeness swatches the Fairytale Collection by Cult Nails!
• Katia-Blondycandy went to Beauty Trend Show at Nordstrom in South Coast Plaza and was lucky to get two great makeovers from YSL and Guerlain. Watch her funny photos and read advices from best makeup artists.
• Want a colorful, dramatic, and edgy look? Nancy from The Dark Side of Beauty shows us how to create it with the Sugarpill Burning Heart palette!
• Perilously Pale shows us how to achieve the on trend anti-smokey eye look with the new Maybelline New York Luminous Lights Quads.
• Beauty from Liz shows beauty products that she has purchased in May. Maybe it is interesting to see what you can buy when you live in Estonia?

Travel: Pocket Packs in Laundry & Thongs & Things GIVEAWAY!

Have you ever taken something new on a trip not knowing if it would be useful & it turned out to be the best thing ever? Enter the Pocket Pack. I was excited to take them if nothing else than to separate my laundry. Anyone else not nuts about the TSA handing their undergarments? Anyway, I packed "Thongs & Things" into its namesake & a few undershirts into the "Laundry" bag.

What have I used them for since? Well, for one thing, privately doing my laundry. I have also been toting my swimsuit & towel from the places I've been staying at, just throwing it over my shoulder. I love that they zip up so easily. You see how it is even on each side? It just fits weightlessly along with my luggage. Even if you can't think of something to do with it now...you will! & hello, what girl doesn't need a thongs & things bag! Cute right?

Want to win of these for yourself? Thanks to Travelon, I'm giving 4 of these away to some lucky readers! Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below! If you don't see it, give it a moment to load, refresh your page, or contact me directly & I will try to help! Sorry this is US only & please refer to my disclosure policy which has a special section just for giveaways!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Keep an eye out because I have 2 more Travelon reviews coming up including the makeup I brought with me!

Press: 3 Zoya Nail Polishes for only $15 + Free Shipping!

When I feature Zoya on this blog (which is common!) I often get asked where to get them, why they are so hard to find, & isn't that a bit pricey for something you can't see in person? Answer: No. Zoya is extremely high quality & I've never (NEVER!) had a polish from them I didn't love which I can't say about any other brand. If you've been looking to branch out & get your hands on some Zoyas, now is your chance!

From Zoya:

The "Take Three Free" Zoya Pinterest Contest was a great success and the Zoya Pinterest Trios are now SOLD OUT!!!

Since only 2,000 Limited Edition Mini Trios were available, we wanted to reward those who missed out but still participated in the contest and pushed for their favorite colors...

That's why NOW through 6/25/12, 11:59 PM EST we are offering any three, full-sized (0.5oz bottles) Zoya Beach and Surf Collection colors for ONLY $15 + Free Shipping!

This offer is listed as a Share the Love bonus item in your online account at www.zoya.com. We have deposited (1) Share the Love Point into all existing accounts. To redeem this offer please follow the instructions below...

Instructions

• Sign into your account at www.zoya.com

• Add any (3) colors from the Zoya Beach & Surf Collections to your shopping bag.

• Go into "My Account" and you will find the "Any 3 Zoya Beach and Surf for $15 Pinterest" Special Offer listed for (1) Love Point under "Redeem Points" (Shown in your account snapshot).

• We added 1 " Happy Point " to everyone's Share the Love Account so that you can participate.

• After redeeming your special offer, click "My Promotion Codes" on the left hand side of the screen to apply the code to your order.

• Complete Check-Out Process, Review and Submit Order.

Terms & Conditions

*Offer valid at www.zoya.com ONLY. Continental US only. Limit one promotion per account. Not valid with any other coupons, codes or promotions. Orders with promotion codes are not eligible for returns or exchanges. We are not responsible for incorrect addresses or credit card entry errors. Code must be entered at the time of purchase. Please allow up to 3 weeks for shipping if volume warrants it.

 

 

My top suggestions? Wednesday, Kimber, & Myrta! Clearly any of the polishes from Beach & Surf are fab since you saw me rave about Beach HERE & Surf HERE though!  Will you be picking up any polishes? If so, which ones!?

BlogHer: My Artist's Way Toolkit Review

Growing up, I was always convinced I would do something with writing. I'm proud to say I have with this blog & other writing gigs. I must admit, sometimes I really miss sitting down & writing short stories or even long ones. I love the idea of still doing it, but I simply haven't made the time. Honestly I think I forget sometimes that I have different forms of creativity that I'm not using.

The My Artist's Way Toolkit opened up something interesting to me. Its based off the The Artist's Way book but reconstructed to be a digital workbook to challenge & awaken creative thoughts. It gives you daily & weekly challenges plus an area to record your thoughts & answers. Unfortunately, I didn't stick with it every day. I honestly forgot about it a few days because while there is an IPhone app, there is not an android one. I wish this had been different so I could do this on the go. I like the idea of incoorporating makeup artistry into this as well. So often I know I want to be creative & I have the tools but I just don't have a muse. This helps with that issue by making me look at things I wouldn't normally in the makeup realm like cobblestones or a fancy dessert.

Overall, I think its a very inspiring tool. It even has you sign a contract to yourself about opening up your own creative channels. It helped me look back at my childhood, look around the city that's relatively new to me but I haven't taken the time to search, & to make myself take some time out for just this creative process. If you've been feeling a bit blocked, I think this is a great journal type tool that is easy to maneuver & useful to get your brain thinking creatively.

If you're interested in learning more about this tool, I urge you to visit BlogHer's discussion here.

FTC Disclosure: I was compensated for this BlogHer Book Club review but all opinions expressed are my own.

Travel: L'Occitane Verbena Sachet & Fragrance/Gloss Duo!

When it comes to traveling, I have the hardest time with fragrances You'll see lots of posts coming up revolving around them because I'm pretty much obsessed. Although I have some favorite scents, L'Occitane took it a step further than my DKNY duo by fusing a gloss & duo. How has this never fallen into my hands before? I want duos like this of, well, everything! The sachet is something I love & I think it will surprise many people why. Read on to find out more!

Travel: Showoffs Travel Bags (similar to Tili bags!)

So since Birchbox has included Tili bags in all of the videos/posts I've seen so far (I won't get mine till I get back, BOO!) I thought I better show you what bags I'm using my for my trip! In comparison, I can only go with what I've seen of the Tili bags, but these look MUCH more durable, reusable, & have the great flat bottom so your items can actually stand straight up!

I was sent a variety, here they are!

Wait, a whole bag devoted to shiny things & purple? Well you know I'm in!

I honestly like all of these, even the brown ones because my husband could use them & not feel "girly" which is rare when packing since I do most of it. I've had bags leak not only onto my clothing, but EXPENSIVE products as well. Such a waste! These have many uses in them as far as gifting goes too since I'm usually gifting makeup/beauty items to family & friends across the US.

Are plastic bags cheaper? Yes, but I've also never had one NOT rip on me! Plus, these just look cuter. & they have free shipping on their site which you can find here: www.showoffstravelbags.com. I'll probably use these to go camping with as well since I am consistently losing my keys, bobby pins, toothpaste...ok everything. Nature steals my stuff. Great to separate a wet bathing suit too!

These come with a set of bottles but you can also squeeze some of your own minis in there too!

*A sample of this product was sent for review. All opinions are my own.

Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Roundup

• The Stepford Witch presents a review of Sugarpill's Heart Breaker palette. Also, check out swatches, MUFE comparisons and a soft-focus look!
• Beauty Tidbits reviews and swatches a few shades of the new L’Oreal Colour Riche Caresse Sticks. Find out if these lippies are worth picking up!
• Glitter.Gloss.Garbage is feeling fresh from the MAC Hey Sailor Collection.
• Laura from My Newest Addiction Beauty Blog shares her favorite products from May which includes brands like NARS, Dr. Dennis Gross, Coach, Giorgio Armani and more...
• A creamy coral, Julep Gloria, is on the mind at Confessions of a Sarcastic Mom.
• KellieGonzo gets classic and sexy with two must see Rescue Beauty Lounge polishes.
• Phyrra gets her hair rocked by Michael O'Rourke from Rock Your Hair! Check out her edgy new 'do!
• Could there be a better pairing than between OPI and Disney?  Polarbelle felt she simply Moust do a manicure featuring the OPI Minnie Mouse Collection.
• Jessika from polish insomniac shows us her secret for smoothing bumpy glitters.
• Stephanie Louise- All Things Beautiful gets some Nail Mail from Nails by Laura & shows you her stunning handmixed polishes (including a Snow White inspired!) & Hunger Games eyeshadows!
• BeautyJudy reviews and swatches an awesome moisturizer coming to QVC Beauty this August: Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Protect + Perfect Tinted Lotion!
• Gia of Bottles and Bottles of Polish, was tired of messing with self tanners and decided to try a spray tan for the first time in years after finding a groupon-type great deal. She tells you all about it, including how it was different than Mystic Tan!
• Beauty and Fashion Tech has a list of over 70 Favorite Beauty Products from beauty bloggers and why they love them.
• Girl Gloss tells you what to expect from a Brazillian Wax.
• You won't believe that you could do your makeup without the Minerals Mate Mixing Tray. Learn all about it at Beauty Info Zone and enter the giveaway to be one of two people to win one.
• Cosmetically Challenged gives you the scoop on two Lipsticks from the new Beth Ditto Collection from MAC Cosmetics. Reviews, Swatches and Budget Friendly Alternatives!
• Creatively Yours by Ro shares her natural hair journey and protective style for the summer.
• Lola from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog is having a major love affair with Sunday Riley Modern Lip Color in Shakespeare- it is the perfect pink lipstick for the summer!
• Blushing Basics shares the 'it' products trending through her beauty routine and wants to offer a reader her favorites of the moment. Enter to win Tarte Cosmetics Cheek Stain and Lipsurgence.
• Hello Dollface has found the perfect nail polish, will it wHet your appetite too?
• The Beauty Professor shares a candid review (as well as great swatches!) of the famous Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Moisture Foundation.
• Brooke from BlushingNoir uses products from MAC's new line to show you how "To Catch A Sailor".
• Spontaneous Chick has Kevin Aucoin Essential Eye Shadow set giveaway going on right now. Enter to for your chance to win.
• Jeanie at Midnight Manicures shares her positive experience with a day at the spa. We would love to hear about yours too!
• Time to change up your makeup but don’t want to spend a fortune? BeautyXpose checks out the Decades of Style kit from Smashbox.
• The Pink Sith has signed upfor yet ANOTHER beauty sample subscription service. This time it's sample Society from BeautyBar. See what she got and what she thinks!
• Curls N Pearls has test driven the new OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps, which are precut nail strips made of 100% real nail lacquer. Check out the review for photos and more info!
• Alison Blackman of the Advice Sisters reviews the gorgeous new fragance from Oscar de la Renta for "Summer Lovin" called Live In Love.
• Thinking about changing your hair style? Retrodiva takes a look at the trendiest hair styles for summer 2012 with Suave Beauty.
• Are you a fan of The hunger games? Liz rocks this colorful look inspired by endless golden fields of district 9.
• Get your summer bronzed look with the NARS Beach Lover Kit. Check out swatches over at The Makeup Divas.
• The Lacquered Lady shares more of her top summer makeup and beauty tips!
• Blondycandy takes a look at new YSL La Laque Couture Nail Polishes collection and compares new Taupe Retro color with classic Chanel Particuliere. Which one is "more taupe"?
• Nancy from the Dark Side of Beauty uses all four colors of the Sugarpill Heart Breaker palette to create a bright, yet smokey Acidic Ocean look.
• Miss L from Beauty by Miss L has used Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser for 1.5 months and now tells why she loves it!
• Geniabeme as well as other Beauty Bloggers of Central Florida got invited to a blogger event hosted by Neiman Marcus! Take a look at some of the bloggers who were there and the products we learned about!

NEW L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow Shades in Endless Sea, Bottomless Java, Golden Emerald, & Glistening Garnet Swatches (PIC HEAVY!)

Ready for a serious case of the "I Wants"? Ever since other people have started getting their hands on the 6 new shades L'Oreal released for summer from the Infallible Eyeshadow line I've been cursing to be without them. In person, I passed on 2/6 which were the shades Liquid Diamond & Smoldering Plum. I passed up a purple? I know I know hold your sighs & shock until the end though! The Liquid Diamond shade was a silver-y lilac type shade & I liked it but didn't NEED it. Smoldering Plum was DARK & because I already have Perpetual Purple which is absolutely stunning, this one didn't blow me away.

Travel: Where To Get Travel Sized Items

Has anyone else noticed the ridiculous prices on travel items lately? I mean seriously, minis are like 1/2 the price of a full size lately! When did that happen?

I stumbled onto a site called Minimus.biz recently & was blown away. Here's a few reasons why:
#1 They actually had travel items I needed, not things I would settle for.
#2 They even had some brilliant things I wouldn't have thought of & want on me at all times.
#3 the minimum for free shipping is only $20 which is like, unheard of.

I feel like I was thrust into a brilliant travel world full of things I didn't even know I needed. Packable toilet set covers for airport bathrooms that always seem to be out? Mini nail files? Tiny slip on tooth-cleaners? In, in, & IN.

Here's what I picked up, all for $20 + some change.

1. Puffs Ultra Soft + Strong Tissues
2. Charmin To Go Toilet Seat Covers
3. Deep Cleaning Finger Dental Wipe in Mint (I got 6! I want to have them on me all the time now!)
4. Round Mirror + Collapsible Brush (much better quality than the one I got for a few bucks at Walmart!)
5. Ms. Manicure Strike to Smooth 12 Mini Emery Boards (They're packaged like matchbooks!)
6. TUMS Peppermint Antacids
7. Q-Tips Travel purse Pack (I have a few of these & I use them for bobby pins too!)
8.  Charmin Basic To Go Bathroom Tissue (I ALWAYS have one in my glove box for camping just in case!)
9. Downy Wrinkle Releaser (I've heard amazing things about this!)
10. Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Travel Size)
11. Badger Organic Stress Soother Balm (Tangerine & Rosemary)

I HIGHLY advise you check them out before your next trip! There's so much more I could have gotten if I didn't already have minis in my stash. They also have loads of mini food (& mini sauces like the classic mini glass ketchup bottles!), games, & camping items. They also have some pre-made kits like the "Public Restroom Survival Kit" which I picked a few items from since I didn't need everything. I love the idea of this & the simplicity. They even hand pack it & sign the card which is a nice touch. On top of that, the stores around here are pretty slim pickings since everyone is going on vacation...something else to keep in mind!

What do you think? Any minis you especially thought were cool? What are YOUR favorite minis to take with you on a trip? I leave Monday! Also, if you have any questions about these products just let me know!

*I was given a discount on items so I could blog about them. I would have gladly put up my own money for everything though!

Beauty & Nail Haul: CVS, Walgreens, & Sallys!

So I got sucked in. What did my CVS have? What looked good at Sallys? & was Walgreens able to compete...find out on this episode of "Stephanie Louise Hauls ...AGAIN" since I have little self control apparently!

 CVS Portion Pictured: Revlon PhotoReady Concealer in light, Sally Hansen Crackle Nail Polish in Distressed Denim, Revlon Age Defying Makeup SPF 15 in Shade 02 Bare Buff, Revlon Custom Eyes in Metallic Chic,  Maybelline Color Tattoos in Edgy Emerald & Audacious Asphalt.

 Walgreens Portion Pictured: Wet n Wild Chrome Nail Polishes in Steel the Spotlight & Penny for Your Thoughts, Revlon Scented Nail polish in Strawberry Cream, Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Tigerlily Treat, & L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Gleaming Bronze.

Sally beauty Supply Portion Pictured: China Glaze Nail Polish in Gaga for Green, Finger Paints Nail Polish in Art You Blue?, Orly Nail Polish in Androgynie, & China Glaze Hunger Games Nail Polish in Luxe & Lush.


Please remember to subscribe to my channel on youtube! The more subscribers I have the more I want to do videos & I have been enjoying them a lot lately! Also HERE is a link to my L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow Test, My CVS Mega Sale Haul from last time (giant!), & my much searched Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadows Review with pictures...many pictures!

So what do you guys think? Does anything jump out at you? Anything you especially want to see in a makeup look or swatched? What have YOU picked up lately that you've been loving?

Travel: Pier 1 Paper Soaps in Pineapple, Key Lime Pie, & Lavender!

**This post is part of my travel posts which I'm writing after much requesting! I'm attending IMATS in LA on June 24th, 2012 & now I can share with you guys travel related reviews, what I'm taking, & much more! If you have any specific questions or requests, just let me know!**

It must have been at least a year ago when I walked into Pier 1 & stumbled upon these perfect soaps. I always find these up by the register & they are only $1! Bargain right? They fit easily into whatever I'm taking & smell really good!

PROS:
 - GREAT for delicate hands. These aren't overly fragrant so they don't bother or dry out my skin at all.

- Wide variety of scents! I've noticed some scents come & go but so far, I've never had a problem finding something I like. Pictured here are Key Lime Pie, Pineapple, & Lavender.

- These don't disintegrate in my hands when they're dry. I can touch them, fold them, & move them around without having it fall apart.

- Hell! They're only $1! You get 15 sheets! I recommend tearing them in half for tiny hands!

CONS:
-I've only ever had issues with one lid & it didn't slide closed tight enough. This didn't bug me much, I just used a bit of tape. This isn't neccessarily a con, just something to be aware of!

-Like I said, these work great for sensitive hands because they aren't super fragrant. If you love strong soaps, these might not be for you.

-Only available at Pier 1 (although you can find something similar at other places!) so you might need to go a bit out of your way to pick some up! When you do though, stock up!