Striking Oil with Josie Maran

Josie Maran, Queen of Argan Oil, recently released Argan Black Oil Mascara. Normally, I pick up mascara at the drugstore but have somehow amassed a rather large collection of sample tubes and this was no exception.

From Sephora’s website:
A mascara that never sleeps: a highly-effective and natural, argan oil treatment mascara that nourishes, lengthens, volumizes, lifts, and curls lashes for 24 hours. 

Treat your lashes to the nourishing lash-softening effect of 100 percent pure argan oil mixed with blackest-black iron mineral pigments, and infused with the lash strengthening properties of bamboo. Creamy and 91 percent natural, Argan Black Oil Mascara conditions as it coats, lengthens, volumizes, lifts, and curls, for eyes that sparkle and invite the world in. The unique formula is delivered by an innovative five-ball brush that reaches every lash. 

This brush has curves.

The tube is pretty, turquoise with a black and orange chevron type design. The brush is really cool, too. They aren’t lying about the five-ball brush either. It looks kind of twisty  and it really picks up the right amount of product. The formula itself is not super thick but it has a good consistency that coats lashes nicely. I find it to really lengthen and volumize each lash, making my peepers pop. Drying time is good. You have time to build up application but don’t have to worry about it ending up all over your eyes (I’m talking to you, Rimmel!) or giving you clumps. It lasts a long time, though I don’t think it could make 24 hours. After a decent day of running around, it does smudge a bit. I can say that I don’t channel a raccoon. I also have sensitive eyes and it didn’t irritate them at all.

 

Top- scary eye, no mascara.
Bottom- scary eye, one coat of mascara

I always curl my lashes and then apply one coat to top and bottom lashes. It really works, no? My only gripe- the price. Though I love some of Josie’s cosmetics, at $22 USD you’re talking a lot of dough for three months use, if you’re lucky.

One Direction Cosmetic Line?!

You may (or may not) hear it first here, peeps, but One Direction is joining the world of make-up. The line consists of three keepsake tins. Each tin is inspired by the One Direction albums. I won’t lie- “Story of My Life” is so catchy but I am disappointed there is no tin for that song. Anyway…

Housed in their collectible tins, each set contains an eye shadow palette, lipstick, lip gloss, eye/body crayon + stencils for your eyes or body (maybe not for me), mascara, and nail polish.

First up is the “Midnight Memories” Kit. This kit seems to be the more glamorous of the three, featuring gray and pink eye shadow, red lipstick , a blackest black eye/ body crayon, and a poppy lip gloss that glows under UV light. To top off the look is a metallic steel nail polish.

The “Take Me Home” kit is is more of a neutral palette, including peach and taupe eye shadow, nude lipstick, a warm chocolate brown eye/body crayon, and yes, UV glow in the dark lip gloss, with a gold glitter nail polish.

The “Taken” kit is the most playful of the bunch, with a shimmery blue and taupe eye shadow palette, bubblegum pink lipstick, a dark denim eye/body crayon, and a glitter pink UV lip gloss, along with a teal metallic nail polish.

All kits contain Little Black Dress Volumizing Mascara in in Perfectly Black.

Make some “Midnight Memories”

 

“Take Me Home”

“Up All Night”

The release dates are as follows:

I received a complimentary kit to try out the products, so stay tuned!

Powered by BrandBacker. All opinions are my own.

Beauty Box 5 Special Box Delivery

I recently received a free box from Beauty Box 5 and was pleasantly surprised. I decided to buy a three month subscription to try them out a bit. I guess when I ordered, I ordered in time to receive another July box (my mom got most of the contents, except the lip balm. I love that shiznit) and an offer for a  a special mystery box with “high-end” cosmetics. I know high-end cosmetics, I mean, c’mon. I was excited to see what Beauty Box 5 meant by high-end. At $39.00 USD, I didn’t know what to expect.

When I got the box, there was no postcard with product listings, so I decided to do a little research…

CATTIVA Retractable Waterproof Eye Liner in Black ($20 USD)

From the website: Intense eyes have never been so defined. Creamy and easy to apply, this very black, paraben-free, waterproof formula is the secret to a perfectly lined eye. Fortified with hyaluronic acid and vitamins to fight the effects of aging and last all day. Retractable dispenser.

Here’s the thing: I rarely wear black eye liner. It really looks too harsh on me. I may try this one out because the website intrigues me.

OFRA Lip gloss Plumper in Sultry ($12.95 USD)

From the website: A unique color lip gloss formulated by OFRA Cosmetic Laboratories with a touch of lip plumper for a beautiful fuller lips.

I am pretty sure I received an OFRA gloss in an ipsy bag. I don’t remember trying it. The color is pretty enough, kind of plummy, so I will give it a whirl.

GlamNatural Mascara in Black ($28 USD)

From the website:  Our eco-mascara in classic black- Mascara is the key to every woman’s makeup regimen. This ever-important tool meets the strict BodySafe standard. It is vegan, paraben free, and will give you gorgeous wide-eyed look you crave.

Don’t get excited. I received a mini tube of this $28 mascara. I know that an eco-mascara is good for me but I also would probably never spend $28 for mascara. (Not to say that I never did- that Armani Eyes to Kill was NOT good and I learned my lesson.)

For info about the polish, keep reading.

Bellapierre Shimmer Powder in Celebration ($14.99 USD)

There is no description on the website, except that this is mineral make-up. In fact, the package doesn’t even tell me that this is shimmer powder or that this product can be used on the eyes. Granted it is pretty, but I am not big on loose pigments. I’m so over them. Someone will end up with this pretty gold eye shadow. It won’t be me.

Nicka K Nail Polish  ($4.99 USD): I’ll spare you website details. I recently saw a pack of these on Groupon for like $10.Nicka K is a discount brand and they also make ABSOLUTE cosmetics, which GlossyBox loved putting in their subscriptions (hence, I stopped subscribing to GlossyBox.) I am not saying this product is bad- I have yet to try it- but this is not high-end. Oh- and I also got this in the regular subscription box. My mom got the double.

This box was not a terrible deal but I also needed to double check the value of the box. Though I was happy with the regular subscription, I will not order one of the special boxes again.  Granted the products surpassed the $39 price tag, some of the items are obscure to me. I do hope I find something that I love.

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

 

 

Beauty Box 5 Believer

A few weeks ago, Doreen of Love Anela, blogged about receiving a complimentary beauty box from Beauty Box 5. I have written about my disappointment with beauty boxes in the past, and though I recently tried GlossyBox again, we soon parted ways. (I still subscribe to ipsy and FabFitFun.) I understand that I won’t like everything that comes in a beauty box delivery BUT I also  hope that if I fill out a profile, someone would  care to refer to it.  I received my first Beauty Box 5 on Monday. After the day my husband and I had, it was a sweet surprise. I was even happier when I opened it.

The box was a nice bright sea-foam green. The items were tucked safely right in the box with shredded paper. Nothing came messy or broken. There were a few inserts included. The July box is themed “Defining Moments,” encouraging subscribers to “treasure accomplishments.” In all honesty, I’m not big on themes but I think it is nice that the company wants you to carry out a purpose.

Let’s get to the good stuff!

Revlon Bold Lacquer Mascara ($7.99 USD): This mascara is a newbie on the market. It should add volume and definition, with lift- no eyelash curler?  I can almost feel a panic attack. I have a bunch of mascaras to try but since Revlon wants us to #flashyourlash this will be the next on my list.

HASK Argan Oil Intense Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment ($2.49 USD): I can find HASK products in the local beauty supply. I even have used their hair placenta spray (sounds gross and works wonders). This packet has a generous amount of product. It is a nourishing cream that should make my hair soft and shiny for up to two weeks. BB5 also mentions that the packet has two uses. I love argan oil and have high hopes for this one!

 

Body Drench Candy Licious Lips ($3.99 USD): Skinny little tube promises to pack a candy flavored punch. They aren’t lying. I got Red Licorice and I swear I’m wearing a Twizzler. It also helps that the beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin make for a smooth and soothing application.

Anna Naturals Glowing Mama Walnut Face & Body Scrub ($10.99 USD 4 fl oz): A vegan scrub that is not formulated with parabens, chemicals, or harsh fragrances will be welcome in my cleansing routine. This sample should be good for about three uses.  We do end up putting about 500 chemicals on our bodies daily, something to lower that number is a help.

Starlooks Lip Liner in Tickle Me Pink ($12.00 USD): Starlooks is another brand that offers a beauty box but seem to also be making their way into other beauty subscriptions. I have a few items from them and do enjoy using their products. Tickle Me Pink is a nice neutral pink that seems versatile.

My first Beauty Box 5 was a success and gave me a chance to try their subscription without costing me a dime. At $12 USD a month, I think I may have to try them out for a bit!

Is that a Twizzler on your lips, or are you just happy to see me?

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

Studio Gear Gets an A+ for Their CC Cream

Hello, hello!

I hope all is well today. I have had many trials and tribulations with face products for quite a bit. I have a decent complexion and rarely have any real issues with my face. When I was given the opportunity to try Studio Gear’s Hydrating CC Color Correcting Cream, I figured what the heck?!

Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream

 

I have always had trouble with BB creams. I found them to be either too heavy or way too watery. My face would become an oil field and I would have to blot like crazy. I resorted to using only a face primer and that seemed to do the trick. I was intrigued by the Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream because it offers SPF 20, is oil free, lightweight, and hydrating.

This is my before. Note to self: drink coffee before photographs.

From Brandbacker website:

Hydrating CC Cream transforms and enhances your complexion in an incredibly light, smooth formula. This foundation simultaneously fights aging, retains moisture, and covers and treats blemishes with a non-oily, perfectly radiant finish.

Key Benefits:

Prevents fine lines and wrinkles with collagen-building ingredients
Restores skin elasticity by promoting moisture retention
Brightens and illuminates skin with a non-oily, complete coverage application

When looking the product, it almost looks like a face scrub. There are microencapsulated pigments in the CC cream that allow for hydration of up to 72 hours.

Do you see the little capsules? This amount covered more than half my face.

I applied it over the very light moisturizer I use. It goes on very smoothly and I found that I do not need a lot of product to cover my face.

Napkin swatch! See how the color develops as it is smoothed over.

 

The product does not make the skin look matte. I wouldn’t say it makes it look dewy either. This CC cream gives you a slightly luminous finish.  I actually would say this made my skin look “better than” its natural state.

After application. Way too close today.

As for the grease factor- the Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream did not make me super oily. In fact, I felt that it actually helped keep some of the oil at bay. With that said, lasting power was pretty good but I did need to touch up with my powder here and there.

I put on some more color.

The price of Studio Gear Hydrating CC Cream is $34 USD. It is available in three shades, linen, natural, and wheat,  which is a pretty limited selection. I am wearing the cream in Natural, so any skin tones lighter or darker may have some difficulty when selecting a shade.

If you are interested in trying Studio Gear’s Hydrating CC Cream or any of their other products, just click here. You will receive a 10% discount on your order when using the code bloggercc.

Let me know if you try any other Studio Gear products. I’d love to hear about it!

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

This post is powered by BrandBacker. Product was sent to me complimentary. All opinions are my own.

Getting Royal With Crown Brush

I have a ton of make-up brushes. Mind you, I never really bought  any good ones until I purchased a full brush set from HauteLook a few years ago by Crown Brush. These brushes were (and still are) better than other brushes I own. I also knew they were of good quality when I noticed them at an MUA event. Anyhoo, I managed to get myself their HD Brush Set, complimentary through iFabbo. Since I already enjoy Crown Brushes, this should be easy!

A shiny white case does not make for an easy picture.

The Crown Brush HD Brush Set contains a variety of six brushes, a tweezer, and a mirror. Since my vanity room is not yet set-up (I don’t even want to talk about it right now) I need make-up brushes handy and this set makes it easy. All of the items are stored neatly in the white zip up case. Each brush has its own pocket. The bristles are made from synthetic fibers and the brushes are vegan. The handles seem nice and sturdy and I have yet to destroy the brushes, which is a good sign.

Look- size order!

For the face there are three brushes: Pro Powder is nice and fluffy. It picks up just enough pigment and lets you dust your face with ease. The Tapered Brush is good for getting into those facial nooks and crannies (mmmm… nooks and crannies- I could go for an English muffin…) though it does seem to be a bit wide. In fact, the Deluxe Contour brush seems to be easier to control when getting into tight spots.

Tweeze me!

The tweezer in the set doesn’t have enough tension in my humble opinion but in a pinch would probably be okay. Onto the eye brushes- the first is the Crease Blender. I tend to use this when I am just trying to soften my eye shadow and a few swipes across your lids with this blends your colors beautifully. I use the Chisel Shadow brush for applying cream or powder shadow to my lids. This brush also has a downy feel. Last but not least is the Detail Liner. I personally think that the bristles on the liner brush could have been a bit more stiff for more precise application.

From left: Pro Powder, Tapered Brush, Deluxe Contour, Crease Blender, Chisel Shadow, Detail Liner

Keep in mind these are HD brushes so they can be used with highly pigmented colors but be warned- you don’t want to be too cartoonish for everyday so apply carefully! Since I feel the brushes pick up pigment well, apply with a light hand. (Trust me, I had a blush incident the other day.)

And another note: I am absolutely terrible with brushes. I never use the right brush and usually have no clue. I am actually surprised at myself since I had my first brush set at 13. The Crown Brush HD Brush Set makes it a no-brainer and while putting my make-up on 7 AM, a whole lot easier.

You can find the @CrownBrush HD Brush Set by visiting here.  It is available in three colors (purple, orange, or white) and is currently $27.95 USD. Get 20% using the code iFabboHD. The code expires 12/31/13!

Twitter: @CrownBrush

Facebook: Crown Brush Fanpage 

I hope I won’t be brushing you off for long!

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

I received this product complimentary from iFabbo. It had no influence on my review. If you are interested in joining iFabbo, click my affiliate link located in the sidebar.

Ringing in the Season with Studio Gear Holiday Smokey Eye Palette

That’s a mouthful, no? Studio Gear’s Holiday Smokey Eye Palette is a “sultry, shimmery palette of dramatic shades perfect for creating a classic smokey eye look.” The palette contains four eye shadows and a blush to create a multitude of looks. 

The palette is made of sturdy cardboard. When you open it up, there is a printed tutorial, along with the color layout of the palette. Personally, I think the names of the eye shadows and blush should have been printed below each pigment rich color but I don’t rule the world.

Top colors are Frost & Coal, Middle is Snowy Glow Blush, and the bottom colors are Platinum and Glimmer

I tried using the tutorial but  having little patience and plans for the evening, I did what I wanted. I started by using an eye primer (NYX HD Eye Shadow Base) and brushed Platinum all over the lid. I then took my brush and added Coal into the crease. I brought the color around onto the outer part of my lid. I highlighted the brow bone with Frost. The colors were a little icy so I dipped my blender brush in Glimmer and dusted it lightly over everything, while softening the look. Using a fluffy blush brush, I applied a very small amount of Snowy Glow to my cheeks.

I didn’t do this.

I did do this.

I think that Studio Gear’s Holiday Smokey Eye Palette is a quality product. The eye shadows and blush are very pigmented. Using minimal amounts had big color pay-off. I had to be careful with the blush, since I am rosy. I really used very little of each color and I think they worked well. I am not sure if the palette is worth $25 on their website but if you want a no-brain smokey eye look, this palette could be for you. Studio Gear is also offering 10% for Product Hoochie readers at StudioGearCosmetics.com. Just enter SGHOLIDAY at checkout. FYI: the code doesn’t expire and is good for your entire order.

Excellent holiday look!

Oh! And if you were wondering why I made myself up on a Wednesday night…

Yes, that is Joe Manganiello in the flesh! He was signing his new book Evolution at my local bookstore. He was very gracious, especially when I mentioned I saw him perform in A Streetcar Named Desire. Clearly, my new eye look had something to do with this stare…

This is a sponsored post, powered by BrandBacker. The complimentary sample had no influence on my review.

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

What’s In My Bag?!

I recently noticed a post on Pink Lady Beauty and figured a “What’s in My Bag?” post would be fun. I love pocketbooks. It is no secret. Some of my prize possessions are my bags. As sad as that may sound, I just can’t help myself. It started at a very young age. My grandmother worked at A & S and would manage to snag four year-old me the hippest pocketbooks that were on sale. Anyway, my obsession still continues and the wanna-be celebrity in me wants you to see what I have in my bag!

I currently am carrying an MZ Wallace bag. This bag is maybe from two seasons ago but their styles are pretty unique to the brand. I got this bag from my aunt. It sat in her closet for quite some time. It figures that it is one of my favorites and that it gets a lot of use.

Nylon with leather trim, this bag can take a beating. I am super hard on my bags and after a year of pretty frequent use, it still looks good.

The outside has two zippered pockets that are pretty generous in size. I find I don’t use them as much unless it is something I need to grab fast.

I keep things like tissues or um feminine products in the front pocket.

My only gripe with the bag is the top zipper to the main compartment. If you pull the zipper too far when opening it, it gets stuck and makes the bag pretty impossible to close. I do love that the attached short strap still fits under my arm and over a heavy winter coat and that there is a detachable cross-body strap, making it hands-free and shopping friendly. The inside of the bag is also roomy and there is an inside pocket with a zipper along with a few other pockets.

I use pouches in my bag. It’s an OCD thing.

Oh! There is also a back outside pocket! Hand sanitizer and lip balm are totally accessible in that pocket and I can just grab them quickly as I need them.

Sanitizer and lip balm in the back pocket. More lip product, hand cream, and blotting papers I keep in the inner zipper pocket.

Caudalie’s Hand and Nail Cream is delightful and leaves my hands feeling silky instantly so I can use my smart phone right after applying. Jouer”s Conditioning Lip Treatment feels lovely and gives lips that pillow look. My blotting papers are from Forever21 and there is also a mirror in the compact. I am hoping to be able to reuse the compact for other blotting papers.

My teacher pencil case!

My mom-in-law bought me the “Stuff” pencil case a few Christamases (is that a word?) ago and it is perfect for the work items I need to have on me. There is my random gaggle of pens and pencils, a USB drive that looks like a Carress bottle, some post-its and my work key lanyard. I thought the penguins were cute. I also stuck my “Never Judge a Book By Its Movie” button on there to remind people to READ!

The wallet is by Elliot Lucca. I have a thing for keychains and the pouch is from Ipsy!

My husband bought me an Elliot Lucca wallet last year. It  is a big wallet and I pretty much throw everything that has to do with cash, receipts, credit cards, loyalty cards, change in it… you get the picture. I love that there are billfolds on either side to organize cash and miscellaneous paper. My keys have a Croc on them because my husband loves Crocs. I keep an Italian horn and the charm to ward off the malocchio- the evil eye.  I also carry an ipsy pouch for my make-up.

Inquiring minds want to know!

I always have a few staples in my little cosmetics bag that never come out. Too Faced Lip Insurance Lip Primer is a necessity since I love my pigmented lipstick. This sample is perfect but I do have a full size when I finish up this guy. I also keep Too Faced Borderline Anti-Feathering Lip Pencil, which is pretty much a clear waxy lip pencil. It is smooth and terrific because it keeps pesky colors from bleeding without altering the shade. That little nub on the left is Sephora Nano Eyeliner in Pearl Beige. It is great for perking up tired eyes by adding a little to the inner corners or a quick highlight when blended on the browbone. I always have eye drops on hand if my eyes get dry or if my allergies make them itchy. I don’t use the drops too often but like them nearby. Ibuprofen Cold & Sinus clears up some congestion or those annoying sinus headaches.  Bare Minerals Ready Touch Up Tinted Mineral Veil helps me stay shine free and is great if I didn’t get a chance to do my face before leaving the house. Don’t even get me started about the three sample perfumes in the pouch. I heart Marni’s eponymous perfume and wear it pretty often, so that is pretty much a mainstay. I currently am trying out Cartier’s Baiser Vole. It is very sophisticated and I am pretty much done with this sample. The last is D’Anjou by DSH Perfumes. It is a really pretty pear scent and I received it in my October Bergamot box. In fact, I liked it so much, I bought it! Finally, the lip colors. I switch them up daily but I think Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss in Radiant may be another product that stays in the pouch all of the time. It is a shimmery rosy pink that is very flattering and great for throwing on in a pinch. My lipstick of the moment is Em Cosmetics by Michelle Phan in Nude. The color is fabulous- it is a nude that does not wash me out and with my primer, lasts a long time!

And that is pretty much it! What is your favorite bag? What do you lug around with you?

I know I would be lost without my pocketbook!

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

Don’t Mess With Me!

Clearly disgusted.

I apologize for my absence! We are moving, and though our new place isn’t particularly far, we still have a few years of crapola that accumulated. I actually went out today with my sister. We had a lovely day of shopping in NYC. Our last stop on our outing was Sephora.
A visit to Sephora is not out of the ordinary for us. My sister and I love Sephora. It’s a little scary. We also had our VIB 20% off coupons, and armed with a rare and decent discount, we knew a trip was in order.
Needless to say, Sephora was a hot mess. It was jammed and filled with rude people. Knowing what we wanted, we picked it up and went to pay. I went to one register, my sister to another. After we were checked out, my sister said she didn’t receive a tote. I thought that was weird and I asked her, “Did you use your coupon?” She hadn’t. I made her walk over to the register and the salesperson kindly did the return and applied the discount. She then explained to my sister that EMPLOYEES OF SEPHORA WERE TOLD NOT TO REMIND CUSTOMERS TO USE THE DISCOUNT.
I won’t get into numbers but I will tell you this- I am a VIB Rouge member. That means I spent at least $1000 this year at Sephora. I have two friends that also are Rouge members. My sister is a VIB- she spent at least $500 this year. Actually her account states she still needs to spend more money to keep her status BUT after we looked at her account history, we discovered that none of her purchases from December to April were credited. Is it possible? Maybe-but it is highly
unlikely.
After the Friends and Family debacle,one would think Sephora would encourage people that spend A LOT of money in their stores to use a discount. It is probably naive of me but it really gets me angry!

A few other tidbits:
If you have enough points for a 500 point perk, you can redeem the points without a purchase.
Some special free gifts can also be picked up without a purchase if you’re a VIB. Read the fine print.

I am sorry to come back spitfire and I will be back in the coming weeks once we are settled.
And remember: USE THAT CODE OR COUPON! The current code for the VIB Shopping Event is VIBTOPIA 

 

Keep Calm & Primp On! XOXO

BA Star Gives Some Lip

I have tried a few products from BA Star in the recent months so when I noticed another BA Star goodie available on BrandBacker for review, I signed up. This time it was for their Holiday Red Lip Pencil. First of all, I love a red lip. Secondly, since I have been impressed by BA Star’s quality, I couldn’t wait to try a more pigmented lippy from their line, especially one that I will use pretty frequently.

The pencil. My lips.

The BA Star Holiday Red Lip Pencil is a chubby stick but not super thick. Since it is a bit thinner, this makes using such a pigmented color much easier. The slightly smaller size gives more control, important when applying such a bright color. I used a light hand in the picture above. The texture is not super soft but not drying. If you notice, the color has a semi-matte finish, which is great! Some super shiny reds end up all over the face and matte reds can look dry. The semi-matte finish gives a satiny look without being glaring and in your face. It also gives the color good staying power.

The left is without flash.

I wanted to add a little glitz to the Holiday Red Lip Pencil so I grabbed my BA Start Zebra Glitter Gloss and added a layer of sparkle.

Another great product, this glittery gloss isn’t too gritty, making it easy to wear.

Quick Tip: Wipe the applicator after using it over any lip color to avoid the gloss from getting cloudy. You may have to remember to wipe several times.

The glitter shows up quite nicely over the Holiday Red Lip Pencil.

BA Star’s Holiday Red Lip Pencil will make an excellent addition to my fall and winter lip colors.  I love the versatility of the product, too, as I can create a light stain or really layer the color to make my lips pop!

Interested in trying BA Star’s Holiday Red Lip Pencil? Visit www.bastar.com and enter BBLIPS at checkout to receive 50% off!  Keep in mind that the discount is off the full retail price ONLY and cannot be combined with any other offers.

This is a sponsored post, powered by BrandBacker. The complimentary sample had no influence on my review.

Keep Calm  & Primp On! XOXO