Thanks to a lot of hard work, my sun damage and hyper pigmentation has really begun to fade. With that, I am celebrating by wearing slightly less makeup. Some days, I can even get away with just a powder – yay! And what better way to change up the routine than with a fab new product from one of my favorite luxury lines – Koh Gen Do.
Not too long ago, I wasn’t aware of IT Cosmetics. But as I delved into the brand, I found unique, ultra-high quality products and tools. Check out this Brand Spotlight for more details on the brand. Also, in a recent New Beauty Test Tube, I received their Heavenly Luxe Powder Brush – which is definitely heavenly. The fluffy, full brush applies powder like a dream. Now’s a great chance for you to check out the brand with me. Today’s Special Value on QVC is an awesome set from the IT Cosmetics team.
Read more “Deal Alert: IT Cosmetics Today’s Special Value on QVC”
Icy winter weather is back again and we are officially in the throws of holiday celebration. While I am not “taking off” any days this week, I will be slightly lighter on the posts. Instead, I’ll be practicing holiday looks and fine tuning some You Tube tutorials for you in the New Year! Speaking of holiday looks, my favorites this season has been neutral eyes and lips with radiant and glowing skin. I’ve discovered some tips and tricks and wanted to share!
I was getting ready for a night out the other day with a friend (who happens to be a serious bareMinerals buff). I couldn’t help but think that I was testing out what would be the perfect stocking stuff for her. While basically everything she applied was bareMinerals, I knew that there were a couple complexion products that I loved and she needs (well, maybe not needs but I know would love!).
The coming cooler season calls for dark and moody shades and radiant festive glimmer. The newest collection from Laura Mercier, Dark Spell, is inspired by the magical ways of women, evoking mystery and fantasy. The emphasis is on smoldering and bold eyes and illuminated skin. I’ve been checking out some of the collection and am inspired by the spirited look. And finally rocking some serious smoky eyes.
Laura Mercier ‘Dark Spell Collection’ Baked Eye Color in Mystical uses her esteemed baked technology. You can use this wet or dry. There is quite a bit of shimmer, but it blends well. I like applying with my finger and smudging out for a glistening grey. The effect is almost a wash of color. But this isn’t for the timid – there is quite a bit of shimmer. I get great wear out of this, and it is transfer and crease-free.
Laura Mercier ‘Dark Spirit’ Satin Matte Eyeshadow is for those who don’t want quite as much sparkle. And frankly has been a favorite for me. The eyeshadow has a dreamy creamy texture that applies matte. Also long wearing, Dark Spirit doesn’t dust or fall out. This is the first product I’ve tried where I can get that inky pigmented look without fear, thanks to the ease of application. It also can be used wet or dry. The wet application is perfect for an black, smudgy lined eye. The shade is a true black with very little grey, green or blue.
Laura Mercier ‘Spellbound’ Face Illuminator, the standout beauty of the collection, has tremendous packaging. The rippled hybrid product gives long-wearing illumination. The rosy shimmer is creamy but to the touch, but has a buildable pearl finish. I’ve been dusting it on like a highlighter with a powder brush for a very subtle glow. Using my fingers, I can get a more emphatic highlight. And I also love it layered on the eyes for a rose gold opaque look.
Make sure to check out my reviews of other Dark Spell products, Kohl Liner Extreme and Eye Canvas.
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
My summer staples have been NARS Radiant Cream Concealer and Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. Frankly, nothing covers the under eye better than the Cream Concealer. And the lightweight coverage and sun protection of the tinted moisturizer make it perfect for the summer months. So, truth be told… I wasn’t surprised to be thrilled with the newest from NARS: Radiant Cream Compact Foundation.
First and foremost, bravo to NARS for a comprehensive offering of 20 shades from Siberia (light with neutral undertones) to Khartoum (dark with espresso undertones). Second, and not surprisingly from NARS, I love the packaging. The foundations are sold in pods that fit into a separately purchased hefty compact. Because of the formula, you are encouraged to make sure both the compact and the separate pod are snap shut otherwise, the product can dry out. Frankly, I have no issue with this and I love that the foundation stays clean.
The formula features a proprietary Advanced Emulsion Technology, allowing for a buildable application either wet or dry. What surprised me most is how this cream foundation could feel so light. Cream foundations aren’t my favorite, so I was sure I was going to find it too heavy for everyday wear. But it sets like a liquid foundation. I’ve been wearing Santa Fe (medium with golden undertones) and Punjab (medium with golden, peachy undertones). It is really hard for me to distinguish between these two shades other than a slightly deeper radiance in Punjab.
Bottom line: this is my go-to foundation for the fall months. I love the portability, flexibility and radiant finish. While it is on the pricier side for the amount of product you get ($48 including the compact for 0.42 ounces), I think the revolutionary formula and wearability definitely make it worth it.
NARS Radiant Cream Compact Foundation is currently available at Sephora.com and NARScosmetics.com. It will be on department store counters on September 1st.
AN EDITORIAL SAMPLE MAY HAVE BEEN PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY AND EVALUATED TO DETERMINE OUR OPINION OF THE PRODUCT IN THIS POST. PLEASE SEE THE DISCLOSURES PAGE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING OUR POLICIES FOR USING EDITORIAL SAMPLES.
