11.30.2011

Revlon Lip Butter Review and Swatches - Tutti Frutti, Cupcake, Strawberry Shortcake, Sweet Tart


These new Colorburst Lip Butters are medium to full pigment hybrid balm-textured lipsticks. And don't worry if you can't find them right now; they'll be permanently available soon!




Revlon really did a wonderful job with the formula and I love the way it glides across the lips. These are moisturizing enough but they cause my sensitive lips to peel so I won't be purchasing any more. With the exception of Cupcake and Creamsicle, the colors are fantastic for anyone in the light to medium skin tone range. Cupcake and Creamsicle would look best on very fair women and men, who are looking more for a lustrous finish to the lips - not much color.

Swatches - Tutti Frutti, Cupcake, Strawberry Shortcake, Sweet Tart

Tutti Frutti

Cupcake

Strawberry Shortcake

Sweet Tart

I purchased Sweet Tart with hesitation but it turned out to be my favorite color! I apologize for the lack of swatches of Creamsicle. It accentuates every dry patch on my lips so I didn't want to post the picture. It's not peach at all on my lips, just an ambiguous milky color. 

Bottom Line: If these didn't make my lips peel, they'd probably be my top drugstore lipstick choice.

November Favorites Details + Links to all Products


I posted all the links to the products shown in the video down below. Enjoy!



Products Shown in Video:
Sigma Beauty London & Make Me Cool Travel Brush Kits
Revlon Lip Butters [swatches & review were just posted!]
Edward Bess Ultra-Slick Lipstick in Forbidden Flower
Edward Bess Ultra-Luminous Eyeshadow in Dusk
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Jeune D'Age Moisturizing Eye Cream
Temptu Smooth and Matte Primer
Laneige Snow Crystal Dual Base
Dior DiorSnow Night Concentrate
L'Oreal Elnett UV Filter Extra Strong Hold Hairspray
Hana Titanium Ionic Flat Iron 1.5"

Make-up Worn in Video:
Dolce and Gabbana Powder Foundation in Warm
Shu Uemura Eyebrow Pencil in Stone Grey
Dolce and Gabbana Eyeshadow Quad in Jewels
Lash Royalty False Lashes in Gossip
Dolce and Gabbana Blush in Mauve Diamond
Dolce and Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Charm
Inglot Sleek Lip Gloss in 42

Nail Polish:
Rescue Beauty Lounge in Bikini Bottom


Lenses:
Queenie Royal Grey Lenses from PinkyParadise.com
Use the code 'RAEVIEWONLINE' for a free animal lens case & mystery gifts :)
--Please note: I do not make any commission whatsoever from the use of this code!

11.29.2011

'Plum-tastic' Fall Make-up 2011 Tutorial Details


I hope you enjoy my take on the 'new neutral' trend of using plums in place of browns! A Burberry make-up artist was the one to clue me in and thank goodness he did :)



Products Used in the Video:
Chanel MatLumiere in 40 Beige
Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Loose Powder in 1 Pale Yellow
Sigma Beauty The Cities - London Travel Brush Set
Shu Uemura Eyebrow Pencil in Stone Grey
NARS Pro-Prime Eyeshadow Base
Le Metier de Beaute Kaleidoscope in Modernist Merlot [Click here see photos & a review!]
*Call Fashion Island's Neiman Marcus to order: 949.759.1900
Chanel Waterproof Eyeliner in Rose Platine
Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil in Rockstar
Lancome Hypnose Drama WP Mascara
Velour False Lashes in Extra Oomph
Lancome Juicy Tube in Magic Spell

Nails:
Butter London Blagger

Lenses:
Queenie Royal Grey Lenses from PinkyParadise.com
Use the code 'RAEVIEWONLINE' for a free animal lens case & mystery gifts :)
--Please note: I do not make any commission whatsoever from the use of this code!

11.28.2011

HOLIDAY: Make Me Up Travel Set in Make Me Cool, NEW from Sigma!




I'll be sharing pictures of Sigma's newest brush set release, the Make Me Up Travel Edition, with you today! I have the original, full-sized version of the gorgeous turquoise Make Me Cool color way and I will show you the differences in the sizing of the brushes at the end of the post.

Sigma's site description: "The Sigma Beauty Make Me Up Travel Edition was specially designed for a fun, yet practical makeup application. This kit contains seven travel-size brushes from our best-selling Essential Kit. The brushes come in an innovative and functional container that turns into two brush holders to keep you stylish and organized on the go."






These are the same price as the City Collection travel sets I showed last week [with the exception of the 18k gold-plated London], a reasonable $59. I prefer the City Collection sets because the brushes are very specific, better tailored to professional make-up application -- after all, you are getting the brushes from the Sigma Premium Professional set. But I think the Make Me Up Travel Edition is definitely going to appeal to the general population more since the brushes are truly essential styles! You will receive a powder brush, a foundation brush, blush/contour brush, and four eye brushes.






This kit will make any special person in your life very happy. Also, if your budget is a little more restricted, then this is a great way to try out Sigma brushes before investing in the full-sized version of the Make Me Cool kit!
Here are those full v. travel brush size comparison photos I promised you. As you can see, the brush heads are identical but the handles are shorter! The quality of the bristles and the density of the handles have not been compromised so no need to worry; these are a much more worthy purchase than MAC's shoddy, overpriced mini brushes.



Bottom Line: If you thought the City Collection was a bit narrowly tailored considering your make-up needs, then this basic and affordable travel edition is perfect for you! 

11.22.2011

Wildfox Couture, Current/Elliot, Robein Clothing Haul Video Details


Here's a quick clothing haul for you guys! I've been trying to mix up my clothing style and step out of my comfort zone, be a little trendy and follow what's "hot" so the Wildfox Couture sweater was the perfect place for me to start. I'm already looking into buying another, thanks to my lovely friend Ingrid ;)



Clothes Shown:
Wildfox Couture 'I Love England' Baggy Beach Jumper from Hautelook in Teen Pink, XS
Current/Elliot 'The Camp Shirt' from Hautelook in Kings Blue, Size 0
Robein Tab-Sleeve Jacket from YesStyle in Khaki, One Size only

Make-Up Worn:
Chanel MatLumiere in 40 Beige
Le Metier de Beaute Modernist Merlot
UD 24/7 Glide-on Pencil in Rockstar
Lancome Magic Spell Juicy Tube
[Full list and details w/the tutorial! To be posted later this week]


Nails:
Butter London Blagger


Lenses:
Queenie Royal Grey Lenses from PinkyParadise.com
Use the code 'RAEVIEWONLINE' for a free animal lens case & mystery gifts :)
--Please note: I do not make any commission whatsoever from the use of this code!

11.21.2011

Sigma Cities Collection - The London Brush Kit Sneak Peek Preview Photos



Sigma Beauty is releasing a highly anticipated, very limited edition travel collection called The Cities. I have a press sample of the London kit to show you today. These go on sale TODAY so I highly recommend you pick one up as soon as possible. Don't wait because these babies are going to sell out faster than Chanel Jade nail polish!


Each kit will feature seven travel-sized brushes and I think Sigma couldn't have produced a more practical, streamlined travel brush set. The London kit boasts posh 18k gold ferrules and luxurious chestnut handles, a little reminiscent of Tom Ford's new brushes - without the ridiculously exorbitant price tag and subpar quality - to represent London's poise and elegance.


I also love Sigma's innovative travel-sized brush holder. Not only is it adorable, it is totally functional since it splits into two separate brush holders/containers! No one beats Sigma when both factors of price and quality are concerned. You will receive 4 eye brushes and 3 face brushes for an agreeable price of $59 (London is an extra $30, due to the gold). Aren't they just dreamy?


Sigma is also launching the New York [silver ferrules and black handles], Tokyo [pink ferrules and pink handles], and Paris [red ferrules and red handles]. London is my favorite though I'm sure Tokyo and Paris will be very popular!



Bottom Line: I still love Laura Mercier's travel brushes but this Sigma London Kit is a the perfect travel companion, a must-have this holiday! Purchase it here: http://www.sigmabeauty.com/?Click=53495

11.20.2011

Travel Make-up & Skin Care Bags Video + Giveaway Details


Who doesn't travel? Even for an overnight trip, you need to be prepared. So I put together this video to show you how I like to pack my beauty essentials and what, in particular, I can't bear to travel without. I think people will be most excited to see my travel bags since I get asked tons of questions whenever I show them. [Please continue reading for all the details you need to know about the bags!]



And for those of you who asked about my Model Mirror in the past, check them out here:
http://lestaitai.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=1
And don't forget to take advantage of the whopping 25% off discount they've offered my subscribers with the coupon code Mirror Mirror! Model Mirrors make the best stocking stuffers and they're also great gifts for the girls in your lives that seem to have 'everything' ;)
*Please note: I have no professional affiliation with Les Tai Tai and they do not compensate me in ANY way - no compensation or commission whatsoever. I just really believe their products are worth the money! 

Now for the Model Mirror giveaway guidelines!
1. This giveaway is reserved for those who live in the US. If you're under 18, you need parental permission to enter.
2. In the comment section of the video [please go to the video's page directly on YouTube to enter  -- your entries here on this blog will not be valid] please tell me the brand of my travel make-up bag is and what your #1 travel essential is!
3. Only one comment per day! Hence, one user may be allowed 14 total entries into this giveaway.
4. The contest will end December 4th, 2011 at 12AM PST.

The black/gold Bobbi Brown travel case that I showed in the video is no longer available since it was a limited edition piece from her Holiday '10 collection but the newest silver/silver edition for Holiday '11, called the 'Party Collection' Deluxe Travel Kit, can be found here on Nordstrom's site: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bobbi-brown-party-collection-deluxe-travel-kit/3232027?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=40 It's a splurge at $115 but trust me, it's worth every penny!

I bought my MARC by Marc Jacobs 'Pretty Nylon' Cosmetic Pouch on sale at Neiman Marcus for $50. Unfortunately, it's sold out but Nordstrom has plenty that you can choose from! They are $62 full price. Here's one cute variation: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/marc-by-marc-jacobs-pretty-nylon-cosmetic-pouch/3225916?origin=related-3225916-6013430-0-1-2 Just keep browsing to see the solids and other patterns :)

Make-up Worn:
Chantecaille 'Just Skin' Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
D&G Powder Foundation in Tan
D&G Blush in Tan [contour]
Shu Uemura Stone Grey Brow Pencil
Edward Bess Single Eye Shadow in Dusk
Lancome Artliner in Noir
Lancome Hypnose Drama WP in Black
Shiseido Majolica Majorca Cheek Customize in OR211 Peach
Edward Bess Ultra Slick Lipstick in Forbidden Flower

Nails:
Butter London Victoriana

Lenses:
Queenie Royal Grey Lenses from PinkyParadise.com
*Use the code -- RAEVIEWONLINE --for a free animal lens case & mystery gifts :)
  --Please note: I do not make any commission whatsoever from the use of this code!

Le Metier de Beaute Modernist Merlot Kaleidoscope Review, Photos, Swatches


I believed I could skip on this limited edition Kaleidoscope, released exclusively at Fashion Island's Neiman Marcus LMdB counter in Newport Beach, CA for Fashion's Night Out, when I saw photos of it on BTiBeauty. After discussing the color way with my friend Xiao of Messy Wands, however, I decided it was a must-have since I had already passed on Silk Road earlier this year. I can only deprive myself so much, right?

Modernist Merlot does not disappoint on the eyes. The shades work beautifully together for a fall eye look, which I will be filming a tutorial for tomorrow! Modernist Merlot is not a palette that I would assumed I would reach for but it's the perfect purple, multi-tasking palette to travel with - especially because the second 'hot' shade doubles as a blush color and because I can use the last shade alone as a liner.


The first three shadows are silky smooth and well pigmented, in usual LMdB fashion, but the last eggplant purple shade is a touch chalky because it has a matte finish. It may swatch a little roughly but not to worry! It applies well to the lid with a dense brush. All the shadows do work best with a base like NARS Pro-Prime, which is what I've been using most these days.

My favorite is the first shade, the cool iridescent pale purple. I don't have anything like it! The pink undertone makes it a lovely brightening wash all over the lid when used alone. The second shade is a matte pink with a touch of peach and is ultra pigmented! The third berry shade has a gorgeous warm shimmer running through it but it's not quite iridescent. It reminds me most of Chanel's Ebloui. I do adore the fourth and final shade because it's one of the few deep purples I own that doesn't look muddy or black against my skin.





Here are individual swatches as well as a view of the colors all blended together. You can use more or less of each, depending on what effect and shade of purple you want to achieve. I recommend you use the least of the second shade if you want a true berry purple tone.

 Natural Light

With Flash

Couche de Couleur - All four shades layered in order

Bottom Line: I've never been a fan of pink eyeshadows in palettes, especially not at this price, but Modernist Merlot is my fall must-have make-up piece. It couldn't have been a more appropriate Fashion's Night Out release so call 949.759.1900 to see if NM has any more left!

11.14.2011

Dolce & Gabbana Provocative Blush Review, Photos, Swatches


I was hesitant when I ordered D&G's The Blush in Provocative because cool bubblegum/baby pinks generally tend to oxidize on my skin and transform into warm, slightly rosy but mostly nude shades that are difficult to describe. Unfortunately, Provocative did not pass my oxidation test. It maintains true-to-pan color for the first two hours of wear but once oxidation kicks in, not even remote traces of pink can be found on my cheeks. If you're fair-skinned, however, you may have better luck with Provocative than I did!


The gold compact does attract fingerprints, though not as noticeably as YSL's gold compacts, and for some reason, the closure on my Provocative blush is a bit faulty. It doesn't snap shut as easily as my other D&G products but I can live with it, just something I felt obligated to mention. The powder inside is smooth and silky, does not kick up much powder dust and applies best with a soft but dense blush brush like Bobbi Brown's. The pigmentation is about medium. This is no NARS Exhibit A but that also means it is much easier to apply and wear properly. I also own Peach, to the right of Provocative above, which was included in the photo above to show how much cooler Provocative is. [I will be reviewing Peach later this week.]


I included the swatch of YSL's new Radiance blush because it's such a gorgeous shimmery baby pink [more neutral than Provocative or Katie] that does stay relatively true to color on my cheeks. The other three blushes are matte/satin shades. If you have not yet found a more affordable bubblegum or baby pink blush alternative, however, D&G's Provocative may be the one to try! I love the texture of D&G blushes and really believe that is what makes them worthy of their high price tag, even if the color of Provocative did not work out as I had hoped it would. I find that only Illamasqua's Katie appears and remains true to color on my medium-light skin.

Bottom Line: I maintain that D&G blushes are worth the splurge but Illamasqua's Katie is still my Holy Grail baby pink blush (and it's much more affordable, too)!

11.12.2011

Edward Bess Forbidden Flower Ultra Slick Lipstick Review, Photos, Swatches



As much as I adore gloss, I will always remain faithful to lipstick. And my favorite new lipstick of the moment is Forbidden Flower, the peach-nude lip color of my dreams. It's technically not 'new' because Edward Bess launched his line a couple years ago but it's 'new' to me! I rarely order products that I have not personally seen/swatched in person but The Beauty Look Book, The Non Blonde, and Cafe Makeup made it so easy for me to make my decisions that I couldn't resist ordering a few pieces from Neiman Marcus, now that it offers EB online.

I credit my purchase of Forbidden Flower specifically to Sabrina of The Beauty Look Book. She has the most comprehensive EB review on the web and she puts my epic-length YouTube reviews to shame ;)



The metal bullet is a glossy black with EB's name stamped in white at the base of the bullet. The contrast is stark but I personally love the simplicity. I am not the kind of woman that touches up my make-up often - if ever - so if I choose to carry a lipstick, I want the bullet to be weighty and substantial to withstand any potential damage but I do not want it to be distractingly heavy. If you are of the same mind, this EB lipstick fits the bill.

The color of Forbidden Flower is perfection. It appears to be a much darker orange-peach in the tube and in the swatch but do not let that deceive you. If you are looking for the color seen below, you can always manipulate the lipstick by adding a more vibrant orange gloss on top!



The formula is so rich and emollient yet it does not bleed into my lip lines. I have naturally dry and sensitive lips but the lipstick simply glides across my lips. With two swipes, I see opaque color coverage - very impressive because I have medium pigmented mauve lips! Plus, the fig scent is absolutely delectable. I can't wait to visit New York in January so I can visit EB's baby counter in Bergdorf's. I have a wishlist written down on an index card already.


Bottom Line: Edward Bess Ultra Slick Lipsticks are coveted by beauty mavens everywhere with good reason. $32 may be an investment but it's the one of the best beauty purchases I've made all year. I want more already!

Tom Ford Beauty Make-up Tutorial and Full Video Review Information + Details


I tried to explain and demonstrate all products in 15 minutes but it was impossible to do without leaving out information. If you have already read my Tom Ford Beauty First Impressions post, you should be able to skip the first half of the video. My video review is more in-depth and my opinions are much more solid in nature, due to the fact I have tested the products thoroughly now and have final judgments, but feel free to skip ahead to 12:25 if you just want to see the products in action.

I posted a preview picture of this look in my last post, which is a full review of the Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad in Cognac Sable (please refer to the post for all swatches and comparison photos). It's my favorite warm eye/warm lip combination I've put together thus far and I hope you'll see why!



Make-up Worn:
TEMPTU Smooth and Matte Base Primer
Tom Ford Beauty Traceless Liquid Foundation SPF 15 in 05 Natural
  --applied with BeautyBlender sponge [available online at Sephora]
YSL Touche Eclat in 8
Cargo Blu_ray Pressed Powder in 30
  --applied with La Mer The Loose Powder puff
Shu Uemura Hard 9 Brow Pencil in Stone Grey
NARS Pro-Prime Eyeshadow Base
Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad in 02 Cognac Sable with MAC & Lancome brushes
YSL Effet Faux Cils Cream Eyeliner in 01 Black with MAC 231
Lash Royalty False Lashes in Luxe-1 Black
D&G The Blush in Tan (contour) with the Sigma F25 brush
Tom Ford Beauty Cheek Color in Flush
Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color in Sable Smoke
Chanel Glossimer in Sweet Beige

*All TF Beauty products can be purchased online at Neiman Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman (click to see all the products). I didn't purchase any other products from his range because I did not have enough interest [Shade & Illuminate - I prefer powder contour products] or I found it overpriced [nail polish, brow pencil - better & cheaper alternatives]. My friend Michael, however, has a great review of the Shade & Illuminate cream contour compact uploaded on YouTube if you're interested - click here to watch!

Nails:
Zoya Midori

Lenses:
Queenie Royal Grey Lenses from PinkyParadise.com
*Use the code -- RAEVIEWONLINE --for a free animal lens case & mystery gifts :)
  --Please note: I do not make any commission whatsoever from the use of this code!

11.10.2011

Tom Ford Beauty Eye Color Quad in 02 Cognac Sable Review, Photos, Swatches


I generally prefer cool brown shadows to warm brown shadows but Tom Ford's eyeshadow quad in Cognac Sable (which I ordered from Bergdorf Goodman) has temporarily, at least, altered my preference.



Though I do own individual shades or duos that may be considered 'dupes' for the shades in Cognac Sable, the only quad in my possession that comes close to Cognac Sable is Chanel's Kaska Beige (now discontinued). Kaska Beige, however, is a mix of warm and cool tones whereas Cognac Sable is strictly warm. These two palettes look more similar once applied to my eyes, since both ultimately create a bronzy, smoky effect.

The golden peach shade is similar to Lancome's Kitten Heel, though the texture of TF's shadow is superior (smoother and more pigmented). I don't have anything like the glittering orange-bronze in Cognac Sable, though the base color is similar to D&G's orange-bronze in the Gold duo (one of my favorite eyeshadows of all time). The warm medium brown and deep chocolate could probably be duped by MAC or any other premiere eyeshadow brand but the texture is what makes them unique. They are matte shades with a touch of shimmer particles running through them. In the pan, they look to be cohesive but once applied to the eyes, the shimmers do sit on top of the shadows. I don't mind that look at all but many prefer shimmers that are infused into the base colors of shadows so I figured it was worth mentioning.



The eyeshadows were swatched on my bare arm but on the eyes, a primer is necessary for oily lids. I found they work best with my NARS Pro-Prime eyeshadow base. Some have found that the colors look better swatched than applied to the lid but I have discovered the more I play with this eyeshadow palette, the more I fall in love with it. The colors coordinate beautifully and I can use it to create both naturally brightened or dramatic, smoky eyes. It's now officially the one warm eyeshadow palette I will travel with. The case could have used some extra weight, but the extra large mirror is a compromise that I do not begrudge.



I'll be posting a full video review and tutorial using all the Tom Ford Beauty products I purchased and I have to say, it's one of my favorite looks of all time! It's very warm, not too neutral, and simply sophisticated.

Here is a full-face preview of my Tom Ford Beauty Look!

Close-up of CS on my eye!

Bottom Line: Tom Ford's Cognac Sable Eye Color Quad may not change your life, but it is admittedly a gorgeous indulgence!

My favorite brand TART - Fabulous Basics at a Fabulous Discount!


TART is my modal heaven, and the brand is best known for their signature drapes and ruching. I love modal because the fabric drapes well but it's great when used for basic tops and dresses. I don't keep up with fashion's latest trends. Instead, I choose fabrics that I know will endure and shapes that I know will flatter my body's easily fluctuating weight.

A lot of you asked about the grey Dolman Tee I wore in my last several videos so I figured it was high time to announce, once and for all, my love for TART. But TART is not cheap. I rarely ever buy clothes for the full retail price and my first couple TART pieces were found at Loehmann's. I usually buy off HauteLook.com, however, because they have a significantly larger selection. Sadly, these flash sale sites don't stock brands like TART for at least every few months so if you miss your opportunity to buy a piece or two before Saturday at 8am when the sale closes, you will have to sit impatiently and stalk HL until TART returns. I am speaking from experience here :)

Today, I purchased this long-sleeved cowl neck tee. If you are petite and have a small bust and waist yet a larger derriere, cowl necks are your best friend! They will even out the proportions of your body.
Now, I only purchased this Nyla Cowl Neck top today but I'll show you some other TART clothing I have purchased off HL that is available today.

I wasn't too confident when I ordered this Brandy Twisted Strap Dress because it didn't look so great on the model. But in person, the twisted straps add subtle attention to your sculpted collarbones and the length of the dress is just right (for me, anyway). It's not too long as to make your frame overwhelmed but it's not too short in that it screams, "I want attention!" I highly recommend this if you want a Little Black Dress that is more casual. You can also dress it up by adding a tailored blazer and black patent pumps.

Next, we have the Long Sleeve Veronica Dress. I bought it in a royal purple shade but unfortunately, it's not available today but the shape hasn't changed. I actually do love the way the grey looks and if you're on the slimmer side, I highly recommend it! I received the long-sleeved version of this dress by mistake. I ordered the sleeveless version but I find that the sleeve adds some interesting dimension without taking away from my petite frame! I think it may be due to that fact the sleeve balances out the ruching near the waist. Either way, I love this dress and it's great to wear on cooler nights out because you won't need a jacket!

I hope you enjoyed this quick little review and I sincerely hope you give TART a chance! Check out the sale here: http://tinyurl.com/795prda. Happy shopping!
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