Possibly my favorite lip product of all time: Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick

You know those certain makeup products that you fall in love with- you can have other products in your collection that give off a similar color, texture, etc., but there's just something about that one that makes it best?  That's Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick for me!  I tried for what seemed like the longest time to find something of a dupe for it, but no other lip colors give me the same tint.  

It seems as though there are a lot of other women who share my obsession, too.  I've heard rave reviews of this little one from all different ages and skin tones- that it's a "universally flattering" color.  That's purely personal, but if you ask me, it totally lives up to the hype.

The Clinique 'Almost' Lipsticks really are what they sound like- an almost lipstick.  This started out as such a great product for me because it doesn't feel like a heavy, thick lipstick; I would say it feels similar to a shiny balm when on your lips (that's where the 'almost' part comes in).  I used to loathe the feeling of lipstick, and this is really a great solution.  Don't get this confused with a tinted lip balm, though- Black Honey has the pigmentation of a stain.  While I've heard some people say it gives them somewhat of a "my lips but better" look, it's a pretty deep (yet still neutral) shade on my lips.  I love the reddish-brown tint it has and no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't find another lip product that gave me the same effect!

Above is one quick swatch of Black Honey, but you can build the color up by layering it.

It doesn't have a crazy-long wear time (without eating or drinking, I get 2-3 hours; the glossiness goes away much more quickly), but that doesn't bother me so much.  It's definitely one of those "keep in your purse for touch ups" products, and the fact that it feels moisturizing makes it comfortable to apply.  

On that note, it could stand to be more moisturizing.  It doesn't dry out my lips, but it doesn't add moisture after the glossy "balm" feeling dissipates.  In this cold, dry winter weather, I sometimes find it necessary to apply balm first to prep my lips.  

From its perfect neutral shade to the easiness of wear, Black Honey is probably my favorite lip product that I own.  Clinique recently extended their family of Almost Lipsticks to include seven more shades- I've tried them all out (over Christmas break when I was back at work), and I love the darker shades (Spicy Honey, Chic Honey).  The others are pretty, but they are really light and don't offer much as far as pigmentation IMO.  At any rate they are incredibly affordable: at only $15.00 each, you won't be breaking the bank by trying a few.  That sounds great to me!

Have you guys tried Black Honey or any of its new sisters?  I'd love to know what you think!  Have a great night, everyone. xox

A lovely Hawaiian New Years

Those of you awesome readers who live in parts of the world where winters are really chilly! know how long the winter season can feel.  When you go for weeks at a time with temperatures dipping below zero (or hovering just above it), it can get very, very depressing!  This is coming from someone who was born and raised in California, but still- as soon as January hits most of us are daydreaming about the upcoming spring.  Well, when my parents told my sister and I that we were going to Hawaii for a family vacation just after New Year's, my jaw hit the floor!  Warm weather in the middle of winter break?  Yes, please!  I'll take it all!

They actually told us back in June, as a celebration for my 20th birthday, my sister's 30th, and my mom's 60th.  We've been in anticipation for months; the excitement didn't really sink in until about November, though.  You guys, Hawaii is awesome and I just can't really explain it another way.  I've had friends and family members go on vacations to the Hawaiian islands, but I had no idea how great it really is until experiencing it for myself.  My family and I have been on numerous trips around the United States, but all of them to see various historical sites (my parents and sister are ultra-history buffs!).  Needless to say, this was totally my kind of vacation.  

Anyway, I thought it would be fun to share some of the hundreds of pictures I took while we were there.  We stayed on Ka'anapali Beach on Maui, which was perfect- it's not quite as built up as the big island and, as a result, is a little quieter.  

I'm going to just let the pictures speak for themselves.  This post should have gone up a long time ago, but better late than never, right?  I'm dying to be back there!

Lahaina

The water is so clear and just beautiful!

Humpback whale!  We went whale watching but unforunately, I couldn't get good pictures of when they actually blew.  This one was just kind of floating, which was still pretty awesome.

Sissy and I eating the most giant piece of ice cream pie ever- macadamia nut ice cream with hot fudge and mac nuts on top.  Yum.

Pineapples on the island of Lanai- they used to grow pineapples all over the island, but it didn't generate enough money.  Now they don't grow pineapples (except for the few in front of the visitor's center we went to!)

Have you guys gone anywhere exciting lately?  Have you been to Hawaii in your lifetime?  Thanks for allowing me to share my trip with you!

Wishing you all a safe Saturday night. xox

Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr eyeshadow in Pomegranate Punk & a cream eyeshadow comparison

Even if you haven't tried one of the new Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr eyeshadows, I'm sure most of you are familiar with them by now!  They're everywhere on the blogosphere, it seems.  I saw the new Maybelline display (with these, the new Dream Nude foundation, Dream Bouncy Blushes, etc.) a few weeks ago at Target- before reading reviews of the eyeshadows- but as soon as I heard of their awesomeness, I picked up my favorite shade: Pomegranate Punk.  These have been compared to MAC Paint Pots, so I was really curious to see how they would hold up.

At the end of this post, I've compared Pomegranate Punk to my other cream eyeshadows just for fun.  The texture immediately reminded me of my ELF Studio cream eyeshadow in Bronzed, which motivated me to pull them out side-by-side. 

Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr cream-gel eyeshadow in 30 Pomegranate Punk, $5.99/0.14oz @ Target.

Pomegranate Punk was instantly my favorite for its rich, reddened-berry hue with gold sparkle.  The shimmer instantly glams up my eyes and is gorgeous paired with golds, browns, and purples.

These cream-gel eyeshadows are supposed to have "intense, long-lasting color saturation," according to Maybelline's website.  They definitely are nicely pigmented and smooth!  I have no issues with a patchy application, like I do with my ELF Studio cream eyeshadow in Dawn.  This shade does remind me of my other ELF Studio cream eyeshadow in the shade Bronzed, however- in contrast to Dawn, Bronzed is creamy and easily blended.  I like to layer Pomegranate Punk a few times for the color to look as rich as it does in the pot.  If you prefer something more subtle, though, that's simple too- just pat on a small amount and the result is a soft hint of cranberry.


Maybelline claims these to last 24 hours, and that may be true with a good primer underneath.  I don't wear any kind of eyeshadow unless I use primer first, so I tested these with Urban Decay Primer Potion (original).  Guys, they lasted me all day AND night.  The first day I wore this, I actually didn't remove my makeup before bed.  I know, it's a beauty sin and just a bad, bad thing to do!  But it happens, and it was amazing to see that when I woke up the next morning, the eyeshadow was crease-proof with only minimal fading.  I also wore Pomegranate Punk with a matching cranberry shade of powder eyeshadow layered on top and the effect is just gorgeous- lasts all day and really amplifies otherwise-lacking eyeshadows.

Last but not least, the packaging!  I'm not usually particular but I do appreciate nice packaging.  The Color Tattoo eyeshadows come in a sturdy, medium-weight jar with a screw-top lid.  I was more than surprised with the weight of these!  I thought for sure it would be cheap, flimsy plastic, but it feels nicer than I expected at only $6-7 a piece.

Swatches

Left: Swatched, Right: Lightly blended out

I apologize for the less-than-lovely swatches; I had a terrible time photographing this shade to do it justice!  Anyway, below are the rest of my cream eyeshadows, and below, swatched side-by-side.

L-R: Mary Kay Beach Blonde, Topshop Velvet, ELF Dawn, Bronzed, Maybelline Pomegranate Punk

I need more of these in my life, I think!  Which ones do you own/love/want to try?  Thanks for reading!

xox

Crazy cat lady picture spam, volume 1

If you know me personally, my obsession with cats isn't a surprise.  In fact, my friends regularly link cat pictures to my Facebook wall (and I love it!).  I admit it!  I love everything about the cute little balls of fur, and I have no shame- my family has always had cats and my sister and I, specifically, spoil them to no end.

Anyway, having accumulated an exceptional number of cat pictures/videos (I can go on Stumble Upon for hours- there's a whole category for cats..!), I thought it would be fun to post them on the blog and further exploit my lunacy.  If you aren't a cat person, I apologize!  But for all my fellow cat lovers, I'll do these once a week to share some lighthearted fun. ;)

MY FAVORITE!  Aww.

LOL. So true.

And last but not least!  To complete this post, I have to leave you with my favorite YouTube cat, Maru!  Have you guys watched him?  If you're not a crazy cat person I'm pretty sure you'll hate the videos- there isn't any dialogue, just Maru.  But he's the cutest and most entertaining cat!

Have a great day!

PS: I take no credit for any of these pictures- I've found them all through Stumble Upon.

Currently obsessed with: Etsy & Heartsy

Happy Tuesday, lovely people!  Today I just felt like sharing a little something I've been loving lately: Etsy!  I've been signed up with Heartsy (which is kind of like a daily deal site for Etsy) for quite a long time now, but only recently have become interested in it.  I'm in a really deathly shopping phase right now and handmade, unique jewelry is what I'm after.  Etsy is the perfect place to find all of that and more- if you're already obsessed with Etsy, you totally know what I'm talking about.  I just wish I jumped on the bandwagon sooner!

Heartsy is fun because it features Etsy shops at (typically) a pretty steep discount.  If you see a shop featured that interests you, you can purchase a voucher and use it however you'd like.  Yesterday I purchased a voucher to Christine Domanic Jewelry- it was $15 for $30 to spend, but I had $5 in Heartsy credits (I think for signing up a long time ago), so I only spent $10 total.

Believe it or not (believe it, this is a no-brainer for me), I used the voucher pretty quickly.  I saw the deal on Heartsy, fell in <3 with Christine Domanic's jewelry, and knew I had to have this adorable owl necklace.  Check it out! (Click the picture to be taken to the store's page)

Isn't he adorable?

This sale is still going on, but next on my radar is one of tomorrow's shops on sale: Amourx, also handmade jewelry, and the voucher is $10 for $21 to spend.  I'm probably going to go way over the voucher's amount with this one, guys- I've already found so many cute pieces I need to own.  Look at these cute bunny earrings! (Again, click on picture to be taken to website)

This shopping online thing is bad, but I can't help it with the unique stuff.  It's a good thing my paycheck over Christmas break was a decent one! ;)

Have you guys purchased any vouchers from Heartsy before, and/or items from Etsy sellers?  If you have favorite shops, I'd love to know!  Thanks everyone!

This post contains an affiliate link- if you click through to Heartsy and make a purchase via this post, I will get credit for the referral. 

Stuck in a hair rut? Easy winter hairstyles to help you out!

Happy Saturday, everyone!  I hope you're all having a fun and safe weekend.  Today I have something exciting to share with you: a long-overdue guest post from the lovely Aleya!  Often I find myself at a total loss when it comes to my hair; as much as I wish I was creative with it, I'm just not.  Aleya has some awesome tips for cute ways to style your hair during the winter season.  If you like any of these or get a burst of motivation to try them out yourself, let me know in the comments!  I'd love to hear your ideas. :)  And of course, thanks to Aleya for this wonderfully-written post!

(PS: credit for each picture is found when you click on it- the link should open in a new window)

The winter hair trends that we’re seeing for 2012 are a combination of glamorous classics and edgy cuts. Each and every look is based on clean flowing lines that can go from day to night. Check out these trends to see which ones suit you best.

Rockabilly 

This look became popular in the fifties when women were trying to show their support their favorite kind of music- rock. Today rock stars such as Gwen Stefani and Katy Perry are bringing it back with their own twist. Whether you leave your hair in its natural color or dye it platinum blond or pink this is a fun look that goes with any face. 

Bangs

Long bangs that brush your lashes or are so long that they can be swept to the side are still strong this season. If you choose to try them out either do so with a super short cut like a pixie cut for a more edge look or use a flat iron to make your locks super straight. 

Braids

No longer just a go to style for humid days when you can’t do a thing with your hair. Braids have been strong for several seasons now and show no sign of slowing down.  There are many, many different ways that you can wear them so spend some time in front of the mirror and let the creativity flow. Try maiden braids, buns, braids with a part in the middle and so on.

Updos

Get a chic and sophisticated look by putting your strands up into a variety of styles. Like the braids, there are tons of ways that you can put your hair up. A few ideas that can go from day to night are French twists, ponytails and oversized buns. Add an accessory such as a jeweled clip for an extra dose of dazzle.

Part

Seventies styles ruled the runways so of course the part was brought back to compliment the look as well. You can part your hair right down the middle or to the side but make sure that the line is straight or it will look messy and unkempt. You can even implement it with a braid or an updo if you like.

Flowing Waves

Channel your favorite inner housewife and use medium sized rollers to create beautiful loose waves. This hairdo is very romantic and looks amazing on anyone for any occasion. Long bangs will look great with this style.

You’ll find that you can mix and match aspects of each style to create your own personal look. For example a short cut with long spikey bangs can give you a great punk look while a French twist with a side part can be very elegant. All you have to do is play a bit to find out which looks you love the most. Have fun and stay beautiful.

This post was written by Aleya who writes the blog for LI Beauty School which is a beauty school college and Hair Design Institute which is a hair and makeup school with locations throughout New York and Florida.

This year, there was makeup on my Christmas list!

Christmas was almost a month ago, so I'm a little embarrassed to only be posting this now!  I needed to get it up, though, because I was utterly spoiled with some exciting makeup (IMO) this year.  And I had so much fun reading what other blogger's received for Christmas!  Nowadays, I typically know most of what I'm getting for Christmas- my mom and I will go shopping and I'll "hint" at a couple things I like, and she'll wrap them up for me under the tree.  It's still fun and is the easiest way for her to get me something I like.  

This Christmas was a little different, as I was extremely busy in the weeks prior and I didn't have time to go out shopping with my mom and sister.  So, my mom had me email her a few things that were on my "list".  What's easier to pick out for someone than makeup (well, when you know what they want at least!)?  I hadn't purchased any new makeup in a long, long time so there were plenty of new products I had my eye on.  My sister and I usually give each other makeup, too, so she also got me exactly what I had been wanting.  And can I just say how fortunate I felt this Christmas?  It was the best thing ever to open up my presents and find new makeup ready and waiting to be tested.  Thank you so much, mom and sister!  You guys are amazing!  

I took a million pictures of the items I got, but I tried to narrow it down to a few.  Here they are all together!  Let me know which of these products (if not all) you'd like to see individual reviews on!

 NARS blush in Oasis

My first NARS blush!  And first NARS product.  I actually had never tried this on or looked too carefully at it in person before Christmas, but from reviews/swatches online, I knew I needed it.  It's the prettiest natural flush of color- it makes me look like I was just running around, but in a good way!

Benefit Watt's Up! highlighter

When this first came out, I wasn't too interested because it just seemed like your average highlighter.  However, I soon realized I don't have many highlighters in my own collection anymore!  I used to go nuts over highlighters, but recently I've resisted them.  This is one in stick form, and it's creamy, pigmented, and easy to blend thanks to the sponge on the opposite end.  I also love the perfect champagne tint it has.  So pretty.

Too Faced Romantic Eye palette

Squee!  My sister and I both got this for each other for Christmas, haha.  I originally told her it was on my list, and after looking it up, she wanted it as well.  I have wanted this palette ever since it first came out awhile ago, so I'm so excited to finally own it.  I took this to Hawaii with me over break, and it provides a lot of versatility for eye looks.  Plus, pigmentation/quality is amazing!  Love these cool-toned eyeshadow colors.  (If you have green/hazel/brown eyes, these are so eye-opening, btw!)

Estee Lauder Signature blush in Peach Nuance

It's finally mine!!  My obsession with Peach Nuance began over the summer and it was love at first sight.  The department store I work at (when I'm home from school) carries it, but unfortunately I haven't seen it online.  I'm not sure if it's only in select stores so I apologize for not knowing more.  At any rate, the yellow-peach gradient swirls together to provide the most brightening, flattering shade of matte peach that I've ever worn- my swatches do NOT do this justice! 

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey

Have I mentioned my never ending love for Black Honey here on the blog?  If not, I'm ashamed- everyone in my life who knows how much I love makeup knows how obsessed I am with this shade.  Don't ask me why I never just purchased it for myself!  I know some people don't get the hype with Black Honey, but for me, it's one of my favorite shades for my skin tone.  There's just something about the sheer formula, stain-like quality, and perfect brown-red color that puts me in a great mood.  Thanks sissy for getting this for me!

Thanks for reading!  And please, let me know which products- or all- you'd like to see individual reviews on.  Hope you're having a lovely (and safe) Friday!  

Hi! I'm back with a little product from Mary Kay!

Wow you guys, I can't tell you how sorry I am for taking such an extended break like that.  The first two weeks of my Christmas break I spent working (which I described in so many words in my previous post), but with the unexpected drama and such I needed to call it quits with the blog for awhile.  I hope you all can forgive me- I'm so happy to be back!  I have to thank all of you for your kind comments on that post, too; you're so thoughtful to take the time to do that.  But anyway, I have a TON of new things that need to be blogged about (a guest post, Christmas presents, new makeup, my family's trip to Hawaii over break!!), so I'm just going to jump right in today with a review to get back on track.

This post features one of the gifts my wonderful friend and roommate Rachael gave to me for Christmas!  Her mom has been a Mary Kay consultant for years and she has grown up with the products (she's a pro!).  It seemed natural that she gave both me and Natalie a Mary Kay product!  I was super excited to try this, as I don't have much experience with the brand outside of a couple client parties and randomly playing around with products here and there (I tried an eyeliner and eyeshadow a few years ago, and some of their body care several years ago when my sister purchased some).  And Rachael isn't the only person I've heard that raves about Mary Kay- I've had so many friends and family members who swear by the stuff.  

Anyway!  She ever so kindly gave me one of her favorite eye products: a cream eyeshadow in the shade Beach Blonde ($13.00/.15oz).  I love how cream eyeshadows can not only add longer wear time to eyeshadows, but enhance/change the color as well.  I got to playing around with this as soon as I opened it!  (I also committed a horrible beauty blogger sin and swatched the poor thing before taking pictures. -_-)

Rachael told me one of her favorite things about Beach Blonde is how versatile it is- she can pair it with practically any eyeshadow or eyeliner color and it looks flawless.  She's exactly right!  My immediate thought was "MAC RETROSPECK!", AKA one of my most favorite MAC eyeshadows; Beach Blonde has a very similar cool, pale shimmery gold tone to it.  When applied to the lid, pigmentation is sheer, so you really do have a lot of flexibility as far as what you pair it with.  It can work on its own to give a really eye-opening, brightening effect, or you can top it with a powder eyeshadow to bring out the shimmer.  I see this looking beautiful with light golds, silvers, and jewel tones (purples and teals).  

As far as the formula, it has a pretty thin consistency that is easy to apply and blend.  I usually do about two layers to get the shade to show how I like.  Once it's in place, this baby stays all day.  I'm really impressed with the quality of this cream!  

Swatch of Beach Blonde 

I'm REALLY curious to see how this cream shadow compares to the new Maybelline Color Tattoo cream eyeshadows- I recently purchased one in the shade Pomegranate Punk but I need to take pictures before I swatch/test it out.  

What are your favorite cream shadows?  Have you tried these by Mary Kay?