The Look of Love- My Favorite Pinks & Reds

Valentine’s day is a hop, skip and a jump away. It is the perfect time to share two of my favorite things; Pink eyeshadows and Red Lipsticks. I have soo many and it was difficult to narrow it down to five each… Don’t judge me.. I have an addiction!

Favorite Pink Eyeshadows-

Laura Mercier Baked Eye Colour- Ballet Pink– A Pale Peachy pink. This smudge-proof, lightweight eye shade is ultrablendable and versatile. It can be applied dry for an even wash of color or wet for a more vibrant effect. Absolutely perfect for everyday wear. $23 at Sephora

Urban Decay Eye Shadow- Sin– A gorgeous Champaign shimmer. Urban Decay’s shadows offer a one-of-a kind velvety texture; rich,  dense and decadent color; smooth uniform pigment distribution and blendability; and a long-lasting, crease-free wear. Urban Decay is my Holy Grail eyeshadow, nothing really compares to the texture and long-lasting capabilities. You can purchase this shade separate or in the Naked 1 Palette. $18/$52 at Sephora

Laura Mercier Eye Color- Guava– A Sateen Peachy-Pink. This color is soft and soothing. The sateen formula is a blend of pigment and pearl, it has a creamy, powder texture that creates a lightweight, feel on the skin. I absolutely love the creamy texture and long-lasting powers this one has. I purchased it in the Sold Out Artists palette, but it is also available on its own $23 at Sephora

Urban Decay Eye Shadow- Buzz– A metallic rose shimmer with silver micro glitter. This color is stunning and a great lid shade. Again this is an Urban Decay velvety smooth shadow. With one good swipe you can completely cover your eyelid and the formula is extremely blendable. The only downside to this shade is that is has to be purchased in the Naked 3 set and is not sold on its own. However, you won’t regret purchasing the Naked 3 set, as it is glorious! One of my favorite and most used palettes this season! $52 at Sephora

E.l.f Prism Eyeshadow- Sunset– A vibrant warm pink. This color doesn’t have its own name, but comes in the Sunset palette. Very, very creamy texture. Blendable and pigmented. This color last all day. The formula is luminous and shimmery! It also is a fantastic deal! The whole palette includes 6 colors and sells for $10 at E.l.f.

Favorite Red Lip Shades-

NYX Extra Creamy Round Lipstick- Miracle- A cherry, coral red. This happens to be my favorite “Everyday” red. It goes with everything and the color is absolutely stunning, Bright, but not too bright. Velvety texture and saturated color. A jaw dropping $4 at NYX

Stila Lip Glaze-Holly– A bright orange-red! One swipe of this saturated gloss will leave your lips ready to face anything! Love the ease of application and the sheer, bright color! I always carry a Stila lip glaze in my purse because it is super easy to apply, and you never know when you will be in a situation where you need to apply lip color without a mirror!!! $22 at Sephora

Kat Von De Foiled Love Lipstick-Adora– A shimmering candy apple red. This is my absolute favorite “Party” red. Not only will it last through the entire party, but it is absolutely stunning and unique. I have never had a red quite like this one! It has flecks of gold shimmer infused for the perfect amount of glamour! I am absolutely dying to try out the other shades in this line. I had received a small sample of this color, but it can be found exclusively at Sephora. $19

Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick- Apricot– A warm red. I love Bite beauty lip products, they deliver super antioxidant resveratrol, which fights free radicals with potent long-term antiaging benefits. This color is particularly gorgeous and sophisticated on the lip. If you are looking for a power red, this is it! Very, very long lasting. $24 at Sephora

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar-Harlot– A neon popsicle red. If you are looking for a lip stain that WILL NOT COME OFF for anything. This is it! You really do need makeup remover to remove this. A little goes a LONG way! Not only is the color an electric, bright red, this stuff is amazing. A bit drying, so top with some lip balm. I love it. If I am planning on going to a really long event where I probably wont see a mirror for hours, this is my go-to stain!  It is also 100% vegan and cruelty free, so you can feel good about wearing it! $18 at Sephora

Have a favorite Red or Pink I should try? Let me know!

Winter Hydration Essentials

It happens to everyone… Right? At some point this winter you will wake up to dry, crackly, itchy skin on some part of your body! I really can’t stand this feeling, so each winter I go ALL out in my pursuit of moisturized skin, cuticles and lips! Here are my favorite products for brilliant skin during the brutal winter weather.

ROSEBUD PERFUME CO.Strawberry Lip Balm– For dry lips, try this delicious vintage tin of Strawberry goodness! It contains a combination of rich emollients that lock in moisture and eliminate dryness after only one application. Not only does it soothe your lips but it smells and tastes like a spring day! You will instantly be transported to cheery times! $7 at Sephora

BLISS Lemon+Sage Body Butter Maximum Moisture Cream- For a dry itchy body, try Bliss’s award winning Body Butter! This is a classic lotion, that I think Everyone should own! It smells like a spa and really lifts your mood! Infused with vitamin E, it softens skin. A little pricey but worth it! I am NEVER without a tube of one of Bliss’s delightful body butters! $29 at Sephora

L’OCCITANE Cleansing And Softening Shower Oil With Almond Oil- Also for the body, use this delicious shower oil to cleanse and moisturize! This stuff is absolutely AMAZING. It smells divine and moisturizes like no other cleanser I have ever used! This shower oil is truly unique. $25 at Sephora

L’OCCITANE Hand Cream- For the hands, always stash away a Loccitane mini! I happen to love the Shea Butter scent! These hand creams come in a variety of natural aromas and 2 different sizes! In the winter it is crucial to KEEP applying hand cream whenever you think about it! This is the key to keeping your hands beautiful and not scaly! I especially love this hand cream because it is enriched with 20 percent shea butter and other naturally nourishing ingredients such as honey, almond, grape seed, and coconut oil. $12 at Sephora

Sweetheart Honey Farm Cuticle Cream- For those nasty cuticles, give them a surge of moisture! My sister gifted this to me for my birthday. Apparently, I have been talking about my dry cuticles and cuticle cream for years and years! This stuff is packed with moisture and locally made! It smells like a citrus delight! In minutes my cuticles are smoother. I have used the Burts Bee’s cuticle cream before and this one is far superior This is a steal at only $4.50 purchase it online at The Soap Box

Michael Todd True Organics Citrus Cream Moisturizer- I started using Michael Todd True Organics products back in October and what a difference they have made in the appearance of my skin! I love this moisturizer. It really helps to keep my skin nourished during the cold months, without being too heavy. It is a light, cream moisturizer infused with essential oils of mandarin orange, tangerine, lemon and lime. DMAE and Hyaluronic Acid work to create a radiant and healthy looking complexion by restoring moisture balance and resurfacing skin texture to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores. Love this stuff! I am on my second bottle. $29 at Michael Todd

Don’t wait until your skin is rough and cracked to start your winter moisture routine! Prevention of dry skin is KEY to having perfectly moisturized skin in any season! Don’t skimp on moisture essentials and your winter days will be much more enjoyable!

Go USA!

In honor of the Sochi Opening Ceremonies tonight, I wanted to share with you one of my favorite fashions! Olympic Mittens! As soon as I saw these stylish and patriotic mittens, I KNEW I must have them! Back in January I attended the US Figure Skating Championships in Boston, MA. These Championships served as the final competition for the selection of the US Olympic Figure Skating Team, and I was there with my mittens on witnessing Figure Skating History! If you haven’t picked up a pair of Team USA mittens, head on over to Team USA Shop and purchase your pair now! They are only $14 and proceeds go to Team USA Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Sparkle the Winter Blues Away

Given to my by a friend for my birthday, these gorgeous earrings transport me to warmer days! The beautiful ocean color lets me know that warmer days are ahead. Bye Bye Polar vortex! My advice to everyone out there- Find a sparking warm piece of jewelry and wear it… Laugh in the face if this weather and remind yourself spring is right around the corner!

19 Reasons- Ipsy Bag January 2014

January’s Ipsy bag is all about a “Better you”. This wasn’t the best Ipsy bag ever, but I was able to walk away with a few lovely goodies! After my move, I was just happy to see that hot pink bubble envelope in my new mailbox!

Ipsy is a monthly beauty subscription service which costs $10 per month, and you receive 4-5 curated products personalized to you! To sign up head over to Ipsy.com, join the waitlist and take the beauty quiz. You will receive products based on your answers to this quiz. I have been a member of IPSY for almost a year, I was on the wait list for two very long months, but it was WELL worth the wait! You really can’t get any better for only $10!

My January bag included 5 samples, all of which will help my overall well-being for the year to come!

Elizabeth Mott Smooth Shadow- I received the color Penny, which is a copper shimmer with a hint of glitter. It glides on with ease and is waterproof. It is a very pretty color, it does show up lightly on your lid. I used it all over as an eyeshadow and below the lash line as a liner, it stayed for quite a while but did not last ALL day, which was a little disappointing. However I will try this out again and maybe add a little extra for staying power. All in all, this is a good product and I will enjoy my sample provided! Full size retails for $14.99

Malin+Goetz Mojito Lip Balm- This has to be my favorite sample of the month! Smells and tastes divine! A minty lime sensation. It also feels very nice and smooth on the lips. Best of all, it can be layered over lipstick for a burst of hydration in winter’s coldest months! I am so happy I received this tropical sample to brighten my mood during this snowy season. It has been scientifically blended to restore and replenish dry lips and uses Fatty Acid Hydration technology. I would highly recommend this product! Ipsy included a full size sample of this one! Score!!! Retails for $12

Proactive+ Mark Fading Pads- I haven’t tried these and I am not sure if I will. My face is very sensitive and I tend to only use my tried and true organic line, Michael Todd True Organics. These Mark Fading pads have 2% Salicylic acid. The bad part is that you cannot purchase these separately but must purchase a 30 day Proactive+ regimen to receive more. Not really a fan.

Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Tri-Wheat Leave in conditioner I am a huge fan of this brand, and always excited to try something new from them! This spray is a combination of Soy and cocoa that is designed to nourish and protect. This left my hair smelling wonderful and visibly silky. I will be using the rest of the sample up! Full size retails for $17.95

Skiin Soothing and Smoothing Eye Cream- This eye cream works to decrease fine lines and wrinkles. It uses mica, a light defusing mineral to occupy wrinkle gaps around the eye and also has collagen to make eyes appear younger. I have used this product for a few days. It is a good eye cream. I probably wouldn’t purchase the full size but it is great to try out! Full size retails for $29.95

As you can see, I definitely received over $10 worth of product in my bag! If you haven’t subscribed to Ipsy yet, you absolutely should!

Spring 2014 Pantone Color Report

Spring is just around the corner… Hopefully!  Stores are starting to bring out the Spring merchandise.  If you are planning on purchasing any new pieces for your wardrobe  keep the above Pantone Spring 2014 color report in the back of your mind while browsing.

Pantone is the global authority on color; inspiring artists, designers and stylists to color the world. Pantone has dubbed the Spring of 2014 to be a “Colorful Season of Equilibrium”, pairing soft pastels with vivid brights! For over 20 years, Pantone has surveyed New York Fashion week and beyond to publish the season’s most important color trends. The 2014 color of the year is Radiant Orchid.  Keep your eyes peeled for an abundance of products colored in Radiant Orchid, including: clothing, cosmetics and home goods for sale this year. This will be THE color to wear and accessorize with!

Pantone identifies 10 stand out hues for Spring-

Pastels- Pair any of these versatile pastels with a bolder hue for a current look.

Placid Blue- A tranquil sky blue brings a sense of peace and calmness.

Violet Tulip- A vintage, nostalgic purple reminiscent of Springtime blooms evokes a sense of romance.

Hemlock- A summery green, it provides a decorative touch which is very different from the greens of recent seasons.

Neutrals- Mix with any colors! Or wear on their own.

Sand- A lightly toasted neutral, stirs images of the beach and evokes feelings of the carefree days of summer.

Paloma- A must have neutral, interesting enough to be worn alone or mixed with any color for a sophisticated poise.

Vivids- These strong colors pair well across the palette and are perfect companions to pastels.

Cayenne- A bold red, adds a dash of spicy heat when combined with neutrals.

Freesia- A blazing yellow that will illuminate wardrobes this season. Inspired by the tropics.

Celosia Orange- A spontaneous hue, filled with brightness.

Radient Orchid- An expressive and embracing purple..a bold counterpart to Violet Tulip.

Dazzeling Blue- An electric and expressive hue . Polar opposite to Placid Blue.

Which one is your favorite? Will you be rocking pastels with vivids this season?

Spring 2014 Color Report by melissa-morandi on Polyvore

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Spring 2014 Pantone Fashion Color Report
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Pantone Colors Spring 2014
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Neck Candy

I admit it… I have a little weakness for J.Crew Jewels! They are so addictive and beautiful. I wanted to share the newest additions to my collection. These are subtly understated, but make a great impression. The colors are clean and fresh. Perfect for the office or a night out. They are soo versatile. My favorite looks are paired over top of a collared shirt, or draped over a casual top. They are designed to be worn in any season, and to go with absolutely Everything! You can’t go wrong with any of their stunning pieces. Shop the Collection at J.Crew.com.

Birchbox Review- Go Time- January 2014

January came and went so fast! I was pleasantly suprised by the wonderful contents of my Birchbox this month! January’s theme is “Go Time”.  The box incuded products to help supercharge your year.

Birchbox is a wonderful subscription service! I am hooked. Boxes cost $10 per month and are filled with 4-5 deluxe sample sized products. Even though you pay $10 per month, you have the opportunity to review each product sampled. For each review you are awarded 10 points and for every 100 points, you earn $10 in the Birchbox store. I have been a member of Birchbox for 11 months, and currently I have reviewed each product I have been sampled. I have accrued $55 in the Birchbox shop. So really, I am spending $5 per month on my subscription/addiction. Can’t beat that!

My January box contained 5 amazing samples, all of which I really love.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk- This dry shampoo is great! One of the reasons it will be on my list of great products is because of the non offensive scent. It barely has a scent. Most dry shampoos have a strong, overpowering smell. This is usually a big turn-off for me. I would rather just make the extra time to wash and dry my hair, than walk around smelling like dry shampoo all day. This dry Shampoo is the best of both worlds! It is made with oat milk extracts,corn and rice starches, This spray barely leaves a trace of residue behind. It performs several functions: It soaks up oil and sweat and helps revive day old hair. Lastly, it amps up volume and can help to extend the life of blowouts. The sample size is very generous and will last for a while. Full size retails for $19.50

Nail Rock- I received the gorgeous color of Velvet Burgundy. The kit came with a nailpolish and a pot of velvet textured topper. You simply paint your nails with the provided polish and dip your wet nail into the texture pot and wait to dry! The velvey burgundy is a beautiful color and also very nice quality polish. Birchbox sent a full size sample which was very exciting! These retail for $7

Benefit Benetint– I am always excited to receive this Classic Beauty staple! I can’t say enough good things about Benetint. If you are looking for the most perfect “Lip” color this is your best bet! With each sheer layer, you can build up to a saturated rosey red color. Benetint can also be used in multiple ways. It is a great cheek tint, especially during the summer when you are looking for some staying power. It is made with Rose petals and has a wonderful floral smell. If you haven’t tried this yet, WHAT are you waiting for? It is quite pricey but it is worth it! Full size retails for $30

100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream– Coffee for your eyes? Yes please! This cream is infused with caffeine from coffee and green tea, and provides an instant pick-me-up for tired eyes. It smells divine and feels fresh on the skin. This cream works by reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. It’s formulated with natural and organic ingredients. Full size Retails for $19

Ahmad Teas Assorted Teas– I received a variety of flavors, my favorite being Mint Mystique. These teas are a Buckingham Palace approved brand. If you are looking for the Royal treatment this winter pick up a box or two! They are a great deal, 40 tea bags for only $7!

As you can see this month Birchbox definately sent my $10 worth of amazing products! Most of the totally new to me! What can be more fun than opening a gift to yourself each month. If you haven’t subscribed yet, head on over to Birchbox and sign up! I promise, you won’t regret it!

Polished Pearl Collar

I am loving this simple Ann Taylor Loft flowing ivory top with pearl rounded collar. Just throw this on with leggings or jeans for a dressed down look, Or use as a nice work piece on its own or under a blazer. Either way, it is also great for traveling because no accessories needed! Simple and Beautiful. A great transition into Spring Piece. According to Ann Taylor Loft’s website they are sold out. However, I did see a few in the store a couple days ago. Happy Shopping!

Sephora VIB Rouge Birthday Gift- Make Up For Ever Preview

Sephora is giving away a great birthday gift for VIB Rouge members this year! I was ecstatic to learn the gift would be from Make Up Forever, one of my favorite brands!

The box included 3 minis: lipstick, eyeliner and mascara. The lipstick given was Rouge Artist Natural in color N9 Copper pink, a gorgeous natural brownish pink color, perfect for everyday wear. The eyeliner is the fabulous Aqua Eyes Formula. This is one of the only pencil eyeliners I trust not to smear or run. The color given was 0L, a jet black. Finally, an amazing sample of the Smoky Extravagant mascara in black was also included. This mascara has a really thick brush which makes Volumizing your lashes a snap!

Thanks Sephora for a wonderful birthday gift! I love everything in the package! Don’t forget to use your Sephora birthday code online or redeem in store during your birthday month!