sick again, ramble, + a mini haul (anthropologie, lush, williams sonoma)

• Anne of Green Gables (Anthropologie exclusive edition, w/cute pinecone bookmark!)
• Voluspa Makassar Ebony & Peach candle ($9.95 on sale, originally $18)
• Lush Day of the Dead perfume (ordered this last month, arrived Tuesday)
• Williams & Sonoma Peppermint Hot Chocolate tin

So, as I'm sure I've said before, I *LOVE* the holidays and all the preparations for them as well.  However, this past month my immune system has been kicking my butt!! Tuesday afternoon I started feeling sick again, and nearly all of Wednesday I spent sleeping either on my bed or the couch. It's just a cold, but wow, is it a mean one! I called in to work today, but luckily my sinuses have started to clear up - I'm just sneezing and coughing a lot.  It's a good thing I didn't go to work - I'm grossing myself out!! haha When I got up today, I was walking around picking up tissues from all over my apartment - it reminded me of that scene in You've Got Mail.  

Since I've gotten some of my energy back, I've started my cleaning spree for when my parents come to visit in a few days (ack! a few days!!) -- this includes cleaning countertops, for those who freaked about the tissues! ;)  I'm doing laundry as we speak, and I've already dusted, cleaned the bathroom counters and mirrors, and changed the bedskirt on my bed (the one I had was torn up by a ceeeeertain 6-lb. someone, ahem...).  Um, can I just say, putting on a bedskirt is a PAIN in the ASS! I managed to knock over my bedside table in the process of putting the mattress back on the bed. Oy.

Earlier today I forced myself to take a shower, get dressed, and go to the store.  I wanted some nasal decongestant medicine, but I ended up getting a warm steam vaporizer, too (sorry, Nick, it's not the cute frog humidifier), and a couple more little gifts for friends.

I also ran into the mall (it's next to Target) specifically to grab a tin of Peppermint Hot Chocolate from Williams Sonoma.  I was tempted already, but watching Michele1218's Holiday Gift Ideas video pushed me over the edge. (Speaking of YouTube gurus - I'm dyyyying over here for a new TheCurrentCustom video - I know people either love or hate Lorraine, but I lovelovelove her. Love her Day in the Life videos on TheCurrentBoobies channel, but it's not the same... *sigh*) 

Since Anthropologie is right next to Williams Sonoma, and it's just so damn inviting, I stepped in there for a browse, too.  This is a never a good idea!! I got the Anne of Green Gables special edition, which I've been lemming for a while, and a yummy Voluspa candle on clearance. Not too much damage done. ;)

I wanted to include Lush's Day of the Dead perfume (terrible name for a perfume, in my opinion - "oh, what's that you're wearing?" "why, it's day of the dead!" "erm.. okay..."), because it just came in the mail the other day and it smells SO GOOD! Really fruity and clean.  Did anyone else pick up any of the limited edition Lush perfumes?  I'm really curious about Big and Snowcake!

Okay, lovelies, I'm gonna go sip some cough syrup and lay down until the laundry's done.  Hope you're all having a great (and healthy!!) December.  See you soon!!

<3 Jess

collective haul: sephora, sanrio, aldo, j.crew, ulta, bath & body works

Bath & Body Works ($10 off $30): C.O. Bigelow Power Berry Mask and Mentha Body Lotion

Sephora: Korres Jasmine lip butter, NARS Little Darling lipstick, Fresh Umbrian Clay Treatment Bar

Ulta ($3.50 off $10): China Glaze Swing Baby, OPI Tease-y Does It (this one has a damaged cap/brush - ugh! I'd exchange it but I lost my receipt, and this bottle was the only one they had when I got it...)

also from B&BW: cozy scented socks! (marked down to $3 a pair)

J.Crew bracelets - all majorly discounted - yay! :) 

Sephora ($20 off $40 or more): Bliss Super Minty Soap 'n Scrub (this is a repurchase - I'm obsessed!), face brush - I have a Clarisonic Mia but got this as a backup!, Laura Mercier travel size Tinted Moisturizer, Bliss mini hand cream duo

Bloomingdales: Chanel Genie Extrait de Gloss (I got this ages ago but realized I never showed it! I love this gloss!)

Sanrio: Hello Kitty pastry keychain, Demeter My Melody edt (this smells AMAZING - like almond liqueur and vanilla! Just wish it lasted...)

McDonalds: My Melody and Badtz Maru Happy Meal watches (I want them all!)

Bag from Aldo (20% off) - thanks Aleksis for convincing me I need this!

Hello Kitty advent calendar from my parents - the tree is felt and the decorations are velcro!

Cuuuute Christmas card from my parents!

I also got two dresses and a wide belt from Forever21 (one of the dresses was in my last post, the other I'm sure I'll be wearing soon!), and a white/black polka dot scarf and lightweight sweater from J.Crew (already on sale + 25% off). Oh! And a beeeeautiful Disney Princess Belle toddler doll from the Disney Store for Toys for Tots.

I think I only need to grab one or two more Christmas gifts, and I also want to get another toy for Toys for Tots.  Christmas is getting so close - I'm so excited!  My parents are coming down next week and my brother will be along soon after - having them here to celebrate with is really the best gift I could get.  I love my family - the worst part of living in Orlando is being far from them! :(

Okay, guys, I need to get my butt to bed! Hope you're all enjoying the holiday festivities as much as I am! :)

Lots of love,

xoxo

<3 Jess

couldn't resist a pic of my baby - the floating head ;)

face, outfit, & nails from tuesday :)

FACE: YSL Perfect Touch foundation (#05), NARS Sin blush, Dior Amber Diamond

EYES: MAC Malt eyeshadow, MAC On the Hunt Superslick liner, MAC Lingering brow pencil, Lancome Hypnose Drama mascara

LIPS: Illamasqua Filth lipstick + MAC Viva Glam Gaga lipglass (later switched to Illamasqua Fable lipstick + Chanel Genie Rouge Extrait de Gloss)

w/Illamasqua Fable + Chanel Genie

w/Illamasqua Fable + Chanel Genie

DRESS: Forever21

BOOTS (dark brown suede): Enzo Angliani (knee socks are VS Pink)

WATCH: Michael Kors (rose gold)

BAG, BRACELET: J.Crew

NAILS: Urban Outfitters Red 2 + Sephora by OPI Only Gold for Me on ring fingers

by request: swatches! ysl, mac, nars, lancome, chanel

TOP: first two are YSL Rouge Pur Couture #10 Beige Tribute (light swatch, heavy swatch), Rouge Pur #148 Tea Rose, Rouge Pur Couture #6 Rose Bergamese

BOTTOM: YSL Perfect Touch #05 Peach, Lancome Teint Miracle Ivoire 2C

lipstick swatches in different lighting

As you can see, Beige Tribute is what I'd call a "mauve nude" - if I hold the tube to my lips it almost matches my natural lip color perfectly.  It is less creamy/glossy than Rose Bergamese, but longer-wearing than Tea Rose (as I find all the Pur Coutures I've tested so far to be!).

As for the foundations, YSL Perfect Touch is quite watery, but I actually like that about it.  It gives a very natural, semi-matte finish. Despite it looking dark in the swatch, because it is water-based, it blends out nicely and doesn't even need to be set with powder (it also lasts pretty well and doesn't get yucky around my nose after hours of wear).  I've been wearing this a lot. I definitely prefer it to the Teint Resist, which I found to be too matte for my combination skin.  This also doesn't accentuate pores OR break me out (despite the fragrance, which is pretty strong) like the Teint Resist did for me. 

Lancome Teint Miracle gives a similar, semi-matte finish (but more dewy than Perfect Touch). It doesn't feel heavy or get cakey.  It does, however, dissolve around my nose area, settling into my pores, after a few hours of wear. I would recommend setting it with powder. I do think it's a good foundation, though - the best Lancome one I've tried so far.

TOP: NARS Little Darling, MAC The Faerie Glen, MAC Till Tomorrow

BOTTOM: Chanel Rouge Coco Magnolia, Chanel Magnolia + Genie, Chanel Rouge Extrait de Gloss in Genie

I think Little Darling and The Faerie Glen look similar on the lips, though Little Darling is sheerer and I find it to be a bit more moisturizing than The Faerie Glen.  Till Tomorrow is a bit darker, but still in the same shade family.  Till Tomorrow is a Pro Longwear Lipcreme, and while I like the staying power, I'm not loving the tacky feeling it leaves on the lips. I think topping it with a gloss or balm might help with that, though I haven't tried it myself (I've only worn it twice).

I really, really love Chanel's Rouge Extrait de Gloss in Genie.  It's exactly as I've heard/read others say - scary orange in the tube, beautiful on the lips.  I love it on top of a pink lipstick! I've worn it over Illamasqua Fable the past two days and I really love the effect (I'll be posting a FOTD tomorrow). I love the light rose scent and the non-sticky texture, too. As for Magnolia, I'm not a huge fan of it on its own - I don't like shimmer in lipsticks - when your lips dry they settle into the lines and just aren't the most flattering, in my opinion! However, topped with a gloss, the shimmer dissipates and it becomes a really nice, wearable/work-appropriate pink.  

Okay, I'm off to bed! Hope that was helpful.  Please don't hesitate to ask me for swatches or reviews - I'm always happy to oblige, even if sometimes it takes me a while to get to it! Ack! :)

I'll be back soon with more fun stuff - a FOTD, more hauling, and some outfits, too. :)

Thanks for reading - I love you guys!

xoxo,

<3 Jess

Products I'm Using Now

Sorry I haven't posted in a while - I'm actually overwhelmed with all I want to post! Work's been insanely busy and I feel like when I'm not working I'm sleeping, and on my days off I'm shopping! ha ha  Anyways, I saw this on a few blogs I read, and I did this about a year ago, but I thought it'd be fun to do it again.  I'm sure a lot has changed! I also added a few categories of my own...

HAIR

Shampoo:

Fekkai Essential Shea

Conditioner:

Fekkai Essential Shea

Styling products:

Fekkai Smooth Hair Cream (before drying), Aveda Volumizing Tonic (before drying), Elnett or Got2B 2Sexy (hate the name!!) hairspray

Hair mask:

None - the conditioner does its job well enough

 

BODY

 

Shower gel:

 Not a gel, but I'm obsessed w/Bliss Super Minty Soap 'n Scrub! 

Body moisturiser:

C.O. Bigelow Mentha body lotion, Carmex Healing Lotion

Deodarant:

 Secret Va Va Vanilla (been using Secret as long as I can remember)

Fake tan:

 None - I hate tanning products! Embrace the pale! :)

Fragrance (I added this one!):

Miss Dior Cherie, Laura Mercier Vanilla Gourmande, D&G The One

 

FACE

Cleanser:

 Body Shop Cucumber Cleansing Milk, Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash (gentle enough to use daily)

 Exfoliator:

C.O. Bigelow Rice & Bamboo, Origins Modern Friction 

Eye makeup remover:

 Ponds cold cream, Boots Soothing Eye Makeup Remover 

Moisturizer:

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion (I HATED this back in the day, but I gave it another shot.... and now I really like it!)

Night Cream:

Clinique Youth Surge Night or Origins A Perfect World

Mask:

Fresh's Umbrian Clay treatment bar 

**also using Origins Brighter by Nature peel twice a week

 

MAKEUP

Primer:

Moisturizer is my primer! Most primers contain silicone, which breaks my skin out something awful, so I try to avoid them!

Foundation:

 YSL Perfect Touch (#5), Clinique Redness Solutions (Calming Fair), NARS Sheer Glow (Mont Blanc)

Foundation brush:

Mostly been using fingers, but Sephora's Platinum Air Brush #55 is the only brush I use for foundation. 

Concealer:

YSL Touche Eclat (under eyes), MAC Studio Finish Concealer (for blemishes)

Powder:

 MAC MSF Natural Medium (for all-over) or MAC Blot Powder (t-zone)

Blusher:

Nars Douceur

Bronzer:

None

Highlighter:

Dior Amber Diamond

Eyeshadow base:

Urban Decay Sin or Eden

Eyeshadows:

I pretty much use different ones every day! Been using the Wet 'n Wild Vanity palette and UD Naked palette a lot, though

Eyeliner:

MAC On the Hunt Superslick liner, MUFE Aqua Eyes 18L or UD 24/7 Lucky on the waterline

Eyelash curler:

I don't use an eyelash curler. The best mascaras curl my lashes anyways - and I hate extra steps! 

Eyelash base:

None. I've tried a few, but I don't think they make a big enough difference for me.

Eyebrow product:

MAC Lingering brow pencil (I've repurchased 2x!)

Mascara:

 Lancome Hypnose Drama (my absolute favorite - this hasn't changed in over a year!)

Lipstick:

YSL Rouge Pur Couture #6, NARS Little Darling, MAC The Faerie Glen

Lipgloss:

 None currently - I like lipgloss but the lipsticks I'm loving right now look best on their own :)

Nail colour:

 I was going to do my fingernails with OPI Tease-y Does It, but my cap/brush are defective! The brush isn't properly attached to the cap, and it falls off! However, I decided on Urban Outfitters Red 1 instead, with Sephora by OPI Only Gold for Me top coat on the ring fingers.  China Glaze Swing Baby on the toes. :)

I'd love for other bloggers (or non-bloggers!) to share what you're using, too! I always like to read things like this. :)

Like I said, I have so much to post - more hauling, swatches, favorites, etc! Stay tuned, I'll be back before you know it. :)

<3 Jess

Thanks for reading!

<3 Jess

fotd from wednesday

Here's my FOTD from Wednesday.  I had a gyno appointment in the AM (ugh) - I REALLY hate the gynecologist, so I always feel like I deserve a little "reward" after the visit! So, of course, I treated myself to a little shopping afterwards.  I've come to HATE Black Friday, so I figured I'd do a "Black Wednesday" instead.  I did find some deals, too! I'll show my little haul in my next post. :) 

I took this pic when I got home, since there was actually some daylight left! I was too rushed to do it in the morning... I'm always running late when I get ready, yet I almost always get where I'm going on time! 

FACE: YSL Perfect Touch foundation, YSL Touche Eclat (under eyes), MAC Blot Powder (t-zone), NARS Douceur blush, MAC Shell Pearl beauty powder (highlight)

EYES: UD Naked palette: Toasted, Hustle; MAC Smoke & Mirrors palette: Spell No. 9 (brow highlight); MAC On the Hunt superslick liner, UD Lucky 24/7 pencil, Lingering brow pencil, Lancome Hypnose Drama mascara

LIPS: NARS Little Darling lipstick (something I picked up that day...)

Hope you all had a happy Thanksgiving! Did anyone brave through Black Friday today?  If so, let me know what you bought! :)

Lots of love,
xoxo
Jess

happy thanksgiving! :)

Hi guys!  I've been wanting to blog the past few days, but I've been sick AGAIN!  I'm definitely over being sick, I tell ya.  I had a fever and sore throat Sunday night and into Monday - I had to call in sick to work Monday and go to the doctor.  Luckily I was well enough today to go to my friend's house for Thanksgiving dinner.  See, I work at Disney and Thanksgiving is one of the biggest days of the year for us, so I always have to work. :P  So Thanksgiving usually comes early or late for my coworkers and me. :)

I just wanted to share some of pics I took tonight with you all!

So much yummy food!

A Wizard of Oz-themed tree - love it!

 

w/some of my girlfriends (& part of a guy! lol)

Bonding with Edward Cullen...

Yes, I took a pic in her bathroom! lol

Grr, frizzy hair!! 

Also, I wore the Lancome foundation today...

not the best pic, though!

I hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving and that you have lots of wonderful things and people to be grateful for! 

Love you all!

xoxo,

<3 Jess

haul, part two: everything else!

Here it is, the rest of my recent mad hauling.  I've been buying gifts, too, so you better believe my wallet is just THRILLED with me right now!! :P

• Voluspa Crisp Champagne candle (Anthropologie)
• C.O. Bigelow Rice & Bamboo Gentle Dermabrasion (B&BW $10 of $30)
• Frederic Fekkai Glossing Cream (B&BW $10 of $30; this a repurchase - the tiny bottle lasts ages!)
• Benefit So Hooked on Carmela edt (20% off Sephora F&F)
• Daisy by Marc Jacobs rollerball (20% off Sephora F&F)
• Silk Road Caravan by Stephen Nilsen fragrance pencil ($10 @ Anthropologie - this stuff is a DEAD-ON dupe of LUSH's Honey I Washed the Kids soap; if you like that, you'll like this!)
• Carmex Healing Lotion ($5.99 @ Walgreens)

Ulta (I never go there without coupons!):

• L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes mascara (okay, not great - also learned that they test on animals after I bought this, which really disgusts me)
• Seche Vite Dry Fast top coat
• Zoya nail polish in Shawn
• Revlon Matte lipstick in Sky Pink (disappointing)
• Essie nail polish in Going Incognito
• Deep Down Detox Ultra Cleansing Mud Mask Orange + Bergamot (LOVE this!)

Essie Going Incognito on the nails - love it!

• Glee: The Christmas Album (I love Christmas music - this doesn't disappoint!)
• Origins Modern Friction gentle dermabrasion + A Perfect World moisturizer (this was on sale as a gift set @ Target for $20! They're full sizes, too. Total steal.  I don't usually trust salon products sold in a supermarket, but these were definitely legit and not off or anything!)
• Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style mini rollerball coffret (20% off Sephora F&F)
• Virgo necklace (Urban Outfitters)
• Tyler Candle Co. Mulled Cider candle (a gift from Mom!)

close-up of the necklace

And last of all, I can't forget my new favorite thing - this super cozy throw blanket from Target! I was feeling pretty yucky on my days off, and curling up in this baby definitely helped! That and some ThermaCare heat wraps and I was set. :)

You can tell I was feeling yucky because of the lack of makeup! Mascara only! :P

Before I go climb into bed, I just wanted to say a huuuuuuge THANK YOU!!!  I hit 100 followers this week and I'm so excited!  I just love being a part of this awesome blogging community. :)  I think I'm going to have a giveaway sometime in the next month. I already have something in mind... ;)

As always, thank you SO MUCH for reading! Love you guys!!

xoxo,

<3 Jess

haul, part one: makeup (mac, chanel, ysl, nars, lancome, mufe)

Let's just say I've definitely been taking advantage of sales and promotions this past month. Some of this haul was sale-motivated, some was "ordering a Christmas gift but need to purchase more to get free shipping" motivated (have you done that before???).

Anyways, here's what I hauled!

• YSL Rouge Pur Couture #10 Beige Tribute
• YSL Rouge Pur Couture MINI (so cute!) #1 Le Rouge (this was a freebie!)
• Chanel Taupe Gris eyeshadow
• NARS Sex Appeal blush (20% off Beauty.com F&F)
• YSL Perfect Touch Radiant Brush foundation in 05 Peach
• Lancome Teint Miracle foundation in Ivoire 2C (20% off Sephora F&F)
• MAC MSF Natural in Medium
• MAC lipsticks (from A Tartan Tale): Cut a Caper, The Faerie Glen
• MAC Amber Lights eyeshadow
• MAC Partial to Pink cremesheen glass
• Make Up For Ever Lift Concealer (20% off Sephora F&F)

I wasn't that excited about MAC's holiday collection this year.  Last year I got a bunch of stuff, most of which I really love and still use (especially the Smoke & Mirrors palette!), but this year all I wanted were two lipsticks: Cut a Caper (a light peachy coral) and The Faerie Glen (a mauvey nude). I did repurchase the MSF Natural powder (my favorite) - I must've loved that thing, because I used it all up the last time! - as well as Amber Lights eyeshadow and Partial to Pink cremesheen glass, two things I've been lemming for quite a while.

I was pushed to order another YSL Rouge Pur Couture lipstick because Neiman Marcus had a promotion for a free mini #1 Le Rouge lipstick with any Rouge Pur Couture purchase.  So I picked up #10, which is a lavender pink/beige nude, and is almost my exact natural lip color. Oddly enough, its consistency is less creamy than #6 (my all-time fave - in a month I've almost run out!), and I prefer it with a similar-colored gloss over the top (MAC's Glamour for All is perfect!).  #1 Le Rouge is a gorgeous cherry red with a glossy, creamy consistency similar to #6.

NARS Sex Appeal is a gorgeous pale pinky peach matte blush (I think I "ooo"ed when I opened it!).  It's quite chalky and requires some work (read: lots of layering!), but I think it will suit fair skin tones well.  I've only used it once so far (too enamored with Douceur to stray...), but I thought it gave a pretty, natural-looking flush.

Really loving both foundations and the concealer so far as well.  I'll let you know more when I've gotten more use out of everything!

I'm sure you'll be seeing these products (some you already have seen!) in future FOTDs, but if you'd like to see swatches of anything, please let me know!

All in all, I'd say it's been a very successful shopping month, don't you think? haha

See you all soon - with part two (yikes, there's more??)!

<3 Jess

face of the day w/some new stuff i'm loving :)

FACE: YSL Perfect Touch Foundation (05 Peach, the brush is useless - I use my fingers to apply; this is the best YSL foundation I've tried - in fact, one of the best foundations PERIOD!), MAC MSF Natural (t-zone only!), Clinique Airbrush concealer (under eyes), NARS Douceur blush, Dior Amber Diamond (highlight)

EYES: Chanel Taupe Gris e/s (lid), MAC Showstopper e/s (crease, lower lashline), MAC Sand & Sun e/s (brow bone), MAC Amber Lights e/s (inner corners, lower lashline), MAC Superslick liner in On the Hunt, Urban Decay 24/7 pencil in Zero, MAC Lingering brow pencil, Lancome Hypnose Drama + Givenchy Phenom'eneyes (I've had this almost a year now and it's still not dried out - crazy!)

LIPS: MAC The Faerie Glen lipstick + Fashion Whim cremesheen glass

I've been all about smoky eyes and nude lips lately (as usual!). I've gotten some new makeup in the past few weeks - so many web sites and stores have been doing promotions (20% off @ sephora.com & beauty.com, gifts with purchase, etc.), I just couldn't resist! I've got most of my Christmas shopping done now, too! Needless to say, my wallet hasn't been happy, but I sure am! And I can't help but think my Christmas tree likes having presents wrapped underneath it already (my family's having Christmas in Florida with me again this year!). :) 

I know, I keep saying I'm going to do my October favorites, but I'm so unmotivated! I've already taken the pic, too - it's just the writing bit! Argh, must do it tomorrow, or it'll be too late to bother!

Alright, awesome friends, I'm turning in for the evening. And goodnight to my little 1-year-old bloggy blog, too! ;)

<3 Jess

Happy 1st Birthday, little bloggy!

not my photo - found in Google Images, but I forgot the specific source! :\

I can't believe I've had this blog a year - yay! I've made a lot of wonderful new friends through this little thing, and I've had so much fun with it! I hope you've enjoyed it, too.  I'll be back later today with my October Faves post, but I just wanted to pop in quickly to say thank you! :)

And a special thank to my friend Tiffany who gave me a shout-out on her awesome blog! I was thinking last week how cool it would be to get to a 100 followers this month, and now I'm actually thinking it could happen! :)

Thanks for reading - love you guys!

<3 Jess

holiday hauling! (lots of LUSH, bath & body works, target)

Hey beautiful people! As promised, here's the haul post.  Good thing I saved it for today, because I made an unplanned trip to Target earlier.. oops. >_<  

So let's just jump right in, shall we?

LUSH:

Matryoshka gift

The Olive Branch shower gel

Iced Wine shower jelly

Bath & Body Works:

Apple Wreath moisturizing hand soap

Frosted Cupcake candle (looks small but it's actually massive!)

Homemade Cookies home fragrance plug-in

I went to Lush specifically for the Matryoshka gift - it's so ridiculously cute! It contains two So White soaps, So White Matryoshka bath bomb, and Cinders Matryoshka bath bomb.  The bath bombs are actually inside the soaps, so they are smaller than regular-sized bath bombs, and the soaps are oddly shaped on the "backs"/"bottoms" because of this as well.  Either way, I loooove this and can't wait to use it all! It retails for $19.95 or £9.95 in the UK. 

The Olive Branch is just a nice, clean, masculine scent.  The Iced Wine shower jelly was something I wasn't even remotely interested in (not a fan of shower jellies!), but the salesgirl told me it was just restocked and it sold out really quickly, so being the sucker I am, I had to give it a whiff - and I was sold.  It smells really fruity and sweet and delicious! I only wish it were a shower gel or a soap instead of a jelly. They're just not enough bang for your buck, even though the concept is pretty fun (like cleaning yourself with jello!).

I had a coupon to get a large candle for $10 (usually $19.50) at Bath & Body Works, so I stopped in to snag Frosted Cupcake, which I've wanted for a while but was holding out to use the coupon! Lucky I went when I did, because there were only two in the store. And now there's one...  The other stuff was just yummy stuff I impulse-purchased!

Back to the topic of Lush, I've been meaning to show you the rest of my Lush holiday haul. I ordered from Lush.co.uk - it always works out to be cheaper that way, and the shipping time is about the same (sometimes quicker!).  Oh, and this isn't how the order came, of course - this is after I sorted everything! I store my Lush bath ballistics, soaps, and bubble bars in ziploc bags - no mess and the scents don't combine! I think it helps them stay fresh, too.

Lush.co.uk:

(in no particular order)

Bearded Lady bubble bar

Snowcake soap

Maple Taffy lip balm

Mrs. Whippy bath ballistic (came broken - so sad)

Honey I Washed the Kids soap (not holiday - but it's my favorite Lush product, period!)

Snow Fairy lip tint

Sugar Plum Fairy sugar scrub

Gingerbread House bubble bar

Glogg shower gel

I'm really excited to try everything! I'm already using Honey I Washed the Kids (a rererepurchase - lol) as hand soap. I was a bit disappointed with the Maple Taffy lip balm (no flavor?), Snow Fairy lip tint (really drying, sheer, but smells yummy at least), and Glogg shower gel (too masculine? I'll give it another sniff, otherwise I'll be gifting this).

Today I went to Target... out of boredom.  Let me first say that this is NEVER a good idea when you're a shopping addict like me! I literally squealed with delight when I came to see this display: 

Seeing the holiday section all set up is a clear message that Christmas will be coming soon! I love everything about the holiday season - I'm always in such a good mood during these months! I've already - yes, I'm serious - almost finished all my Christmas shopping! And my Christmas tree's been up for two weeks.  Two weeks! Okay, so I'm a little Christmas-crazy. :)

This made me squeal, too - Egg Nog and Ciders galore!! 

I looooove egg nog. Some people think it's gross or weird - not me! Target has some specialty-flavored egg nogs as well, like Chocolate Mint and Red Velvet. I got a bottle of TG Lee (the Santa-faced one) yesterday when I did my grocery shopping - I'm proud to say I haven't touched it yet. :)

And here's what I hauled (some of which is gifts!)...

Target:

Reese's miniatures (mix of dark & milk chocolate - large bag - on sale for $2)

Sonia Kashuk mini cosmetic bag (to gift or to keep.. hmm)

Yorkie & Owl ornaments (scroll down for close-ups!)

Wet 'n' Wild Color Icon palette in Vanity

Bolthouse Farms 100% carrot juice (I love this stuff!)

"J" mug

Extra Mint Chocolate Chip gum (so wrong but so right!)

Neutrogena Skin Clearing oil-free makeup (Nude 40, $2 off)

Burt's Bee's spot treatment (30% off)

Kings & Queens Jasmine shower gel & Sugar shower gel ($2.24 each)

Haribo Gold Bears & Rolos (Rolos were $0.30 each!)

The shower gels and candy on the right are to put in with Christmas gifts.  Also, I wanted to mention I will be returning the Neutrogena Skin Clearing oil-free foundation - I was suckered in by the name and the "on sale" tag, but I did a trial of it tonight and nooooo likey.  It didn't make me oily, but it did make my skin look really dull and feel ridiculously dry and tight - it created wrinkles I didn't think I had before! So yeah, I don't recommend it!  I'm gonna use the Wet 'n' Wild palette tomorrow - I wanted it after seeing it used by a blogger - all of the Wet 'n' Wild Color Icon palettes are really pigmented!

These are the ornaments I picked up:

looks like my doggy!

pretty teal owl <3

Sparky got something from Target, too. :)

Alright, I guess that's all! Hope you enjoyed - I know some people loathe haul posts, but I really enjoy seeing what other people buy - probably because I'm both nosey and a shopaholic (and looking at hauls allows me to shop vicariously through others - and also get ideas I don't need! lol).  Anyways, I hope you like hauls, because there will definitely be more in the future! haha :)

Love you all!

xoxo

Jess

face & outfit of the day (it's been a while!)

I haven't really been doing FOTDs lately, because I'm not really loving any of my foundations right now - my NARS Sheer Glow is too light at the moment (and looking too matte?) and the Clinique Redness Solutions, which I actually love, just doesn't seem to photograph well.  Oh, and I decided I *HATE* YSL Teint Resist. It dries soooo powdery and blotchy and really emphasizes my pores. I'm always surprised to see so many people love it.  I'm also not loving my hair lately... I keep thinking about getting bangs again... hmm...

Anyways, today I used some products I haven't touched in ages (the blush products!) as well as some staples.  

FACE: Clinique Redness Solutions foundation (02 Calming Fair), YSL pressed powder, Illamasqua Katie blush, NARS Enchanted cream blush

EYES: MAC Sable (lid), Vainglorious (crease), Sand & Sun (under brows), Star Violet (lower lashline); MAC Superslick liner in On the Hunt, MUFE Aqua Eyes 18L (lower lashline/waterline), Lancome Hypnose Drama mascara, MAC Lingering brow pencil... and a pencil to highlight inner corners (I forget which!)... 

LIPS: YSL Rouge Pur Couture #6

TOP: H&M

JEANS: Torrid

SCARF: Target

CLUTCH: Forever21*

WATCH: Michael Kors

FLATS: Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa

The pic was taken in Forever 21, and I was "trying on" the clutch, but I didn't have anywhere to put it down to take a pic of my outfit, so.. there it is. Oops!  I was trying things on because I had something to exchange, but didn't really like anything.  Then when I went to the counter, I couldn't get store credit because their system was down (it was raining earlier). Annoying!

Luckily it wasn't a wasted trip (it never is, is it? lol), as I picked up a couple of things at Lush and Bath & Body Works (coupon!).  I'll show you my haul in my next post! Oh, and October favorites is on the way as well, of course. :)

See you lovelies soon!

xoxo

Jess

Shu Uemura: Holiday 2010 haul, swatches, & review

sorry for the crap photo!

Here's what I hauled (some of this was free!):

Miracle Cherry blush tint

Pressed eyeshadow in P 595 Deep Emerald Green

Harmony Pink Lip Duo tint + gloss

High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil 

Cleansing Beauty Oil Premium A/O sample (freebie)

Phyto-Black Lift firming anti-wrinkle cream sample (freebie - two of these!)

Face Architect foundation sample (freebie, not shown)

Swatches:

P 595 eyeshadow, Harmony Pink lip duo tint + gloss (the gloss is pretty much invisible - disappointing!), Miracle Cherry blush tint

REVIEW TIME!

I was really excited about their holiday collection this year - I'm a sucker for cute packaging! - and when I saw they had a free shipping promo going on, I couldn't resist.  Overall, I'm really pleased with my choices (and the freebies, too!).  The eyeshadow in P 595 in particular is AMAZING. I think this is a shadow that applies nicer when wet (I just wet my brush before applying), but the pigmentation is fantastic. I'm a huge fan of dark green eyeshadow, and this does not disappoint! For those who missed out on MAC's She Who Dares mineralized eyeshadow duo, I think this is a nice alternative to the green shade.  It's more pigmented and less bright, and the sparkle is less obvious.

The Harmony Pink lip duo tint + gloss is what I'd call a "nice to have" product.  The tint is a nice coral pink that reminds me of Illamasqua Obey when applied.  The gloss part, however, in the pan looks like a bright pink, but applies COMPLETELY sheer (can you see it in my swatch? Neither can I...).  I think it's a little too pricey when considering only 50% of the product is any good. I'd go for Illamasqua Obey unless you particularly like the packaging (which is pretty cute, if tricky to open).

The Miracle Cherry blush tint was definite purchased for the packaging! The palettes were too pricey for my liking, but I needed something with the reindeer girl on it, and this fit the bill. (Told you I'm a sucker!) I was pleasantly surprised with this one, though; it has great texture (it's a liquid gel blush) - very soft to the touch, and is very pigmented but blendable.  It gives a nice flushed, winter-cheek glow.  

As for the Cleansing Oil, I wanted it for the packaging, but I really like cleansing oils for removing makeup.  I've been using it every night since I got it to remove my makeup.  If you've never used a cleansing oil, you just pump the product into your hand and rub it into your skin (it gives a nice warming sensation), then remove  with a wet washcloth (I use tissue first on my eyes so I don't destroy the cloth).  My skin feels soft and refreshed afterwards. Aside from their eyelash curler, I'd say Shu Uemura is best-known for their cleansing oils - and it's clear to see why.  I definitely prefer this to MAC's Cleansing Oil, which I liked for removing makeup swatches and cleaning my hands after applying foundation with my fingers, but my face didn't like it much!

The samples were nice, too, and they were all pretty sizable portions, too. The Phyto-Black Lift cream has a light, clean lemon scent (like their lipsticks) and feels good on the skin, without making it oily or greasy. I've been using the cleansing oil as I used to use the MAC one - it has a nice cucumber scent (I'm scared to use it on my face for this reason, though! I tend to be sensitive to scented face products). The Face Architect foundation is a nice, full coverage, matte foundation.  I don't like full-coverage OR matte finishes in foundations, though, so it's not for me! It'd be worth sampling if you do like that, though!

Overall, I really like Shu Uemura products, but it sucks that US buyers are now limited to shopping on their website since they closed all US in-store locations. Who likes buying beauty products without seeing them in person first? However, I have a few products of theirs already in my stash that I really like (one of my all-time favorite blushes is M Peach 44, a gorgeous pale peach), so I wasn't too scared!  

Wow, this was a beefy post! If you've read it through, congrats, that's quite an accomplishment! haha I just really wanted to do an in-depth review, because I think Shu Uemura's a great brand, and it tends to get overlooked (by me, too!), and it's really challenging to find swatches and reviews of their products!

See you all soon,

<3 Jess