I apologize for the late post. Life has gotten the best of me lately, but here's a short update to my Red Carpet Manicure Review posted here.
I purchased and have worn the Red Carpet Manicure colors in Nominated For, Midnight Affair and Simply Stunning. Let me start by "dittoing" what most other reviewers have said: the colors look nothing like the bottle when you put them on. I didn't make any BAD choices: Nominated For is a nice deep, dark purple; Midnight Affair is a deep, rich blue; and Simply Stunning is a nude color. Simply Stunning wasn't my favorite upon application, but it grew on me, and it is definitely the only color I would consider wearing for two weeks.
Showing posts with label reviewing now. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviewing now. Show all posts
Monday, January 30, 2012
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
reviewing now: red carpet manicure pro kit
I have to start this post by singing the highest regards for this product! If you have to stop reading right now, I would just recommend that you GO and pick this up!
Now here's my full review.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
reviewing now: muji 5 drawer acrylic case
Thursday, November 17, 2011
reviewing now: makeup forever mat valvet foundation
I've had a chance to use the MUFE Mat Velvet Foundation for a couple of weeks now, so here is my updated review.
I picked up a better match at Sephora and have been test driving it so that I could finish my review. I was matched with #80 (I had previously purchased #85).
image credit here
I picked up a better match at Sephora and have been test driving it so that I could finish my review. I was matched with #80 (I had previously purchased #85).
Saturday, November 5, 2011
reviewing now: MAC can't resist
I recently Back to MAC'd a couple of products in exchange for a new lipstick: MAC Sheen Supreme Lipstick in Can't Resist
If you haven't heard of Back to MAC, the short version is that if you bring 6 "empty" containers to a MAC counter or store you will get a free product. You get a free lipstick at the counter (as long as it is not in limited edition packaging) or a free eyeshadow, lipstick or lipglass at a freestanding store (again, as long as it is not in limited edition packaging).
If you haven't heard of Back to MAC, the short version is that if you bring 6 "empty" containers to a MAC counter or store you will get a free product. You get a free lipstick at the counter (as long as it is not in limited edition packaging) or a free eyeshadow, lipstick or lipglass at a freestanding store (again, as long as it is not in limited edition packaging).
Thursday, October 27, 2011
reviewing now: revlon colorburst lip butter
Recently, there has been a lot of internet buzz surrounding the new Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter so I picked one up yesterday. I know they’ve been harder to find in some areas, but I managed to snag one at CVS. The display wasn’t stocked, but there was a pretty good selection. Constantly wearing lip liners, lipsticks and/or lip glosses leaves my lips a little drier than I desire, so I often don’t reapply mid-day, choosing instead to use a chapstick and a lipgloss. Let me tell you, these live up to all of the hype.
The color selection is amazing! There are around 15 or so colors to choose from. I had a hard time deciding and was immediately drawn to the bright pinks, but decided to do something a little different. I chose Sugar Plum which appears to be a really pretty mauve in the tube. I have lipsticks in the plum family that pull a really true, plum, but this gloss actually pulls more pink on me. I’ve actually read reviews online that said that this is a MLBB (my lips but better) color on some. While this isn’t the case for me, I’m definitely in love with this color and this product.
I’ve written before that I have pigmented lips, and I own very few products that will show cover the pigmentation, and this is no exception. It doesn’t COMPLETELY cover the pigmentation but the color is definitely there! If I wanted the true color to show on my top and bottom lips, I would color correct my top lip with a nude lip liner and viola, problem solved! Without a lipliner, this color didn't last a terribly long time on me. I definitely get longer wear from a liner/lipstick/gloss combo, but this is far easier to apply and reapply (straight from the tube!) which is a big plus for me! I would say these are perfect for those who are looking for the ease of a chapstick, but the color of a lipstick/gloss.
The butters contain ingredients such as: mango butter, coconut oil, shea butter and feel extremely moisturizing while they are on. They apply silky smooth. I have noticed that my lips seem to be a little dry by the end of the day, but I don't know if I could attribute that to the product because I have dry lips.
I’m going to pick up a couple of more in the coming weeks, a pink (perhaps Pink Truffle or Strawberry Shortcake) and a nudish (maybe Fig Jam). Can’t wait to try them out!
Another added bonus: I can apply color to my lips on the go, without using a mirror!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
reviewing now: statement necklaces
In a previous post I mentioned that I've recently become interested in "finishing" more outfits and one of the suggestions from the Alteration's Needed Forum, was that I do more accessorizing. My first attempt at that did not go all that well. I purchased some necklaces from Charlotte Rousse. They were nice necklaces, but 2 out of the 3 that I purchased broke within a month. This does not make me a happy camper.
Enter New York and Company. I have an aversion to spending a ton of money on trends that I'm not sure I am going to keep up with - and I'm not sure that necklaces are going to make a strong appearance in my wardrobe. My girlfriend and I were in New York and Company scoping out the sales (no, I don't think NY & C is exceptionally petite friendly, but I have managed to find some winners in there clothes-wise), and I saw the jewelry was 50 - 60% off, AND we had a coupon for $30.00 off if you spent $70.00. I picked up some necklaces in a few colors to see which ones I would reach for first before I make a large investment.
All of the necklaces have this adjustable clasp, so you can decide how long, or short, you want the necklace to be. They also feel incredibly lightweight (but not cheap) and don't get in the way of my workday.
This one is a white shell necklace that includes a flower. I was worried that the flower would be a little too large for my liking, but I think it adds a certain something to an otherwise boring outfit. The suggested retail price is $19.95. In the second picture, I am wearing the necklace on the shortest clasp. (All the rest are worn on the longest, and this is how I typically wear them).
This necklace is a purple color. I haven't actually worn it yet, but I like the color and think it's going to be a great color for summer and into the fall (I actually purchased a flower pin and a racer-back shirt from H&M in the same color!) The suggested retail price of this necklace (and the rest of the short necklaces) is $16.95.
This green necklace has gotten a lot of wear, especially when I am wearing something in a particularly plain or boring color. I like that it adds color to an outfit without being really loud - some days, you just don't want LOUD!
I also wear this necklace quite a bit. It just adds a pop of something spe-shul! The color is a little more vibrant than the necklace above. I'm surprised that I reach for it as often as I do. That's why I'm happy that I decided to take a chance and buy these necklaces in so many different colors, especially considering how reasonably priced they were!
I tend to gravitate towards longer necklaces. I wear this one all the time. It's true that longer necklaces do elongate the petite frame! I'm going to be on the lookout for other longer necklaces. At this point, I would feel comfortable investing in a few, quality necklaces similar to the one above! I believe this one retails for a little more than the shorter necklaces, perhaps $23.00 or so? I don't remember the exact price and the tag has disappeared!
Well hopefully you enjoyed this review and you will be seeing these pieces in future outfits posts!
Enter New York and Company. I have an aversion to spending a ton of money on trends that I'm not sure I am going to keep up with - and I'm not sure that necklaces are going to make a strong appearance in my wardrobe. My girlfriend and I were in New York and Company scoping out the sales (no, I don't think NY & C is exceptionally petite friendly, but I have managed to find some winners in there clothes-wise), and I saw the jewelry was 50 - 60% off, AND we had a coupon for $30.00 off if you spent $70.00. I picked up some necklaces in a few colors to see which ones I would reach for first before I make a large investment.
This one is a white shell necklace that includes a flower. I was worried that the flower would be a little too large for my liking, but I think it adds a certain something to an otherwise boring outfit. The suggested retail price is $19.95. In the second picture, I am wearing the necklace on the shortest clasp. (All the rest are worn on the longest, and this is how I typically wear them).
This green necklace has gotten a lot of wear, especially when I am wearing something in a particularly plain or boring color. I like that it adds color to an outfit without being really loud - some days, you just don't want LOUD!
I tend to gravitate towards longer necklaces. I wear this one all the time. It's true that longer necklaces do elongate the petite frame! I'm going to be on the lookout for other longer necklaces. At this point, I would feel comfortable investing in a few, quality necklaces similar to the one above! I believe this one retails for a little more than the shorter necklaces, perhaps $23.00 or so? I don't remember the exact price and the tag has disappeared!
Well hopefully you enjoyed this review and you will be seeing these pieces in future outfits posts!
Friday, June 10, 2011
reviewing now: gap legging jeans
Gap legging jeans became an overnight sensation in the petite community. I rarely purchase things regular price (why? everything goes on sale eventually...but I suppose that's a post for another day), but I actually considered purchasing these jeans at the sticker price Lucky for me, the entire Gap store was 40% off the day I happened to wander in. Goooo me!
Now on to the review.
I initially purchased these jeans when I was about 15 pounds lighter in a size 24 (00). I was absolutely thrilled because they actually fit! I read somewhere (I believe it was here) that petite women should consider the materials clothes are made of when considering making a purchase, especially denim, and that they should look for denim that has some kind of stretchy material as they tend to be smaller than those that don't. I have personally found that to be true, and these jeans fit the bill! I had to size up to a 25/0 after the weight gain.
I've never worn them, and they are a little tight on me in the picture, but should easily loosen up with a little bit of wear. I definitely will be line drying these and not putting them in the dryer.
But as you can see they fit really well in the waist. I really had to tug on them to get the waist line to poke out a little. I wouldn't even have to wear a belt with these. The jeans are a wee bit short for my tastes on me, and I may take them to my tailor to have the hem let out a bit. They reach a little above my ankles. If my tailor can't take the hem out, I'll probably roll the bottom up for a french cuff look and wear them as ankle pants.
Here's a quick shot of the jeans from behind. Petites around my size may want to try on a 26 to compare the size difference. Those that are a little smaller should try the size 24 or 25.
Another quick caveat: The jean leggins appear to fit differently depending on which wash you purchase them in, so I definitely recommend trying them on before purchasing. Here are the same jeans, same size, but they clearly fit differently. These are a tiny bit more lose and are definitely longer than the gray wash. I have worn and washed these before.
Future wearing now preview! Hope you found the review helpful! You can find this review and many others here!
Now on to the review.
I initially purchased these jeans when I was about 15 pounds lighter in a size 24 (00). I was absolutely thrilled because they actually fit! I read somewhere (I believe it was here) that petite women should consider the materials clothes are made of when considering making a purchase, especially denim, and that they should look for denim that has some kind of stretchy material as they tend to be smaller than those that don't. I have personally found that to be true, and these jeans fit the bill! I had to size up to a 25/0 after the weight gain.
Materials:
99% Cotton
1% Lycra (Spandex)
99% Cotton
1% Lycra (Spandex)
Size 25/0
I've never worn them, and they are a little tight on me in the picture, but should easily loosen up with a little bit of wear. I definitely will be line drying these and not putting them in the dryer.
But as you can see they fit really well in the waist. I really had to tug on them to get the waist line to poke out a little. I wouldn't even have to wear a belt with these. The jeans are a wee bit short for my tastes on me, and I may take them to my tailor to have the hem let out a bit. They reach a little above my ankles. If my tailor can't take the hem out, I'll probably roll the bottom up for a french cuff look and wear them as ankle pants.
Another quick caveat: The jean leggins appear to fit differently depending on which wash you purchase them in, so I definitely recommend trying them on before purchasing. Here are the same jeans, same size, but they clearly fit differently. These are a tiny bit more lose and are definitely longer than the gray wash. I have worn and washed these before.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
reviewing now: oil blotting sheets
Now that the weather is warming up, I'm having to break out the heavy artillery. I have incredibly oily skin (for this I can't thank either of my parents, their skin is *normal*). Hopefully I'm going to age really, really well (do you hear that God?!), but in the meantime, I still have to go out and face the public.
I've come to heavily rely on oil blotting sheets to help control the shine throughout the day. Sometimes I have to use them twice within a single work day...I'm thinking that's got to be some kind of record...right?! I'm going to review the two oil blotting sheets that I'm currently using.
First up, e.l.f. Shine Eraser Oil Blotting Sheets
What say they?
Shine Eraser: absorbs oil and shine; mattifies shiny skin; pore minimizer; woven texture eliminates shine and keeps skin-matte for hours; green tea extract helps re-texturize skin, masking facial imperfections.
Ingredients: microcrystalline wax, caprylic/capric triglyceride, green tea leaf extract.
What do I say?
I think these are a good value all things considered. They are priced at 1.00 for 50 sheets and get the job done. Sometimes I have to use 2 sheets in order to remove all of the surface oil from my skin. I wouldn't say they leave my makeup perfectly in tact, but I think it is unrealistic to expect that they would. They claim to have green tea in them, but they don't seem to have any fragrance at all. I leave these in my cosmetics bag at work and use them throughout the workday.
Next, Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens
What say they?
Instantly blot away excess oil and perspiration without disturbing your makeup. Hint: Let your personality shine, not your skin! Tip: Perfect for lipstick blotting too. Made from finely-woven leaf fibers of the exotic Abaca Tree Plant and infused with one of nature's most powerful antioxidents, Green Tea, to help soothe and freshen your skin. Slim package fits perfectly in your pocket, handbag or desk drawer.
Ingredients: Green Tea
What do I say?
I love these as much as I loved the Lavendar Blotting Linens and would probably repurchase. They are a little pricey at $10.00 for 100 sheets, but well worth every penny! I wish I had purchased more when Sephora had them on sale for $5.00. If there is a next time, I'm going to take a page out of my mother's handbook and make sure everyone I know heads to Sephora and purchases 2 (which was the limit per person during the last sale). I can smell a hint of green tea on these sheets. I carry these around in my purse.
Comparisons
Aside from the obvious price difference, there are a couple of other difference between the two sheets.
The e.l.f. linens don't have a mechanism to release one sheet at a time. You have to slide the sheets out of the container, making an effort to only grab one sheet at a time. Most of the time I only remove one sheet, but sometimes I accidentally pull multiple sheets from the container. The Bosica sheets pop up one at a time.
The Boscia sheets are nearly twice the size of the e.l.f. sheets. That could partially explain why I only need to use one Boscia Sheet and I sometimes use two e.l.f. sheets. I find that the Boscia sheets also fit in my hand betters. Sometimes my fingers end up coming in contact with my face when trying to use the e.l.f. sheets.
The Verdict
The Boscia Blotting Linens are the clear winner for me. I think the fact that I carry these in my purse and don't want to be without them says it all. The e.l.f. sheets certainly serve their purpose, though and I would consider repurchasing to stock in my office and would also repurchase these if I was out and about and needed a quick fix. If you are new to blotting sheets and want to see what all the fuss is about without breaking the bank, I would recommend giving the e.l.f. sheets a try! Here's a hint: if you find yourself in a pinch, brown napkins (think Starbucks) and toilet seat covers can also double as blotting sheets!
I've come to heavily rely on oil blotting sheets to help control the shine throughout the day. Sometimes I have to use them twice within a single work day...I'm thinking that's got to be some kind of record...right?! I'm going to review the two oil blotting sheets that I'm currently using.
First up, e.l.f. Shine Eraser Oil Blotting Sheets
who: eyes lips face
what: Shine Eraser Oil Blotting Sheets
where: I purchased mine from Target
when: about 3 months ago
why: they were cheap!
What say they?
Shine Eraser: absorbs oil and shine; mattifies shiny skin; pore minimizer; woven texture eliminates shine and keeps skin-matte for hours; green tea extract helps re-texturize skin, masking facial imperfections.
Ingredients: microcrystalline wax, caprylic/capric triglyceride, green tea leaf extract.
What do I say?
I think these are a good value all things considered. They are priced at 1.00 for 50 sheets and get the job done. Sometimes I have to use 2 sheets in order to remove all of the surface oil from my skin. I wouldn't say they leave my makeup perfectly in tact, but I think it is unrealistic to expect that they would. They claim to have green tea in them, but they don't seem to have any fragrance at all. I leave these in my cosmetics bag at work and use them throughout the workday.
Next, Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens
who: Boscia
what: Green Tea Blotting Linens
where: I purchased mine from Sephora
when: about a month ago
why: I purchased the Lavender Blotting Linens and loved them, so I planned to repurchase, but fell in love with this packaging
What say they?
Instantly blot away excess oil and perspiration without disturbing your makeup. Hint: Let your personality shine, not your skin! Tip: Perfect for lipstick blotting too. Made from finely-woven leaf fibers of the exotic Abaca Tree Plant and infused with one of nature's most powerful antioxidents, Green Tea, to help soothe and freshen your skin. Slim package fits perfectly in your pocket, handbag or desk drawer.
Ingredients: Green Tea
What do I say?
I love these as much as I loved the Lavendar Blotting Linens and would probably repurchase. They are a little pricey at $10.00 for 100 sheets, but well worth every penny! I wish I had purchased more when Sephora had them on sale for $5.00. If there is a next time, I'm going to take a page out of my mother's handbook and make sure everyone I know heads to Sephora and purchases 2 (which was the limit per person during the last sale). I can smell a hint of green tea on these sheets. I carry these around in my purse.
Comparisons
Aside from the obvious price difference, there are a couple of other difference between the two sheets.
The e.l.f. linens don't have a mechanism to release one sheet at a time. You have to slide the sheets out of the container, making an effort to only grab one sheet at a time. Most of the time I only remove one sheet, but sometimes I accidentally pull multiple sheets from the container. The Bosica sheets pop up one at a time.
The Verdict
The Boscia Blotting Linens are the clear winner for me. I think the fact that I carry these in my purse and don't want to be without them says it all. The e.l.f. sheets certainly serve their purpose, though and I would consider repurchasing to stock in my office and would also repurchase these if I was out and about and needed a quick fix. If you are new to blotting sheets and want to see what all the fuss is about without breaking the bank, I would recommend giving the e.l.f. sheets a try! Here's a hint: if you find yourself in a pinch, brown napkins (think Starbucks) and toilet seat covers can also double as blotting sheets!
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