tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74415695696417438762024-02-19T00:33:57.713-08:00beauty-vixenKate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-83360267114088965202017-03-18T16:39:00.000-07:002017-03-18T22:18:51.040-07:00the month I stopped caring about beauty & the products that got me back into itI'm the kind of person who actually calls in sick to work when they are sick. In college I couldn't write my papers when I was hungover (or even a bit drunk). I don't wear makeup when I'm really tired, and I definitely can't get myself to blog when I'm not feeling well. Other people can, but I can't. I'm not proud of it but I accept that about myself. Maybe I'm weak or maybe health and healing trumps everything else for me. And obviously life or death matters more than makeup.<br />
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Earlier this month my mom (80) was admitted to the hospital for severe pneumonia. It was all-consuming for me. I was at the hospital for hours and hours a day, because you know how dicey pneumonia is for the elderly. When she eventually took a turn for the better she requested to take a shower. I helped her shower in the shower room down the hall. She requested a blow dryer and styling cream. I did her hair for her. And a week and a half in she requested I bring a little makeup for me to put on her. It felt good to care for my mom, I was happy to help her feel better after all the many years she has taken care of me, even as an adult. Finally, a little over two weeks later she was doing well enough and was released to go home.<br />
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Of course I still visited her at home but basically I was left with a lot of time on my hands that seemed empty. I could have caught up on my blogging. I could have gone to the mall to see what was new at Sephora. I could have dived head-first into my YouTube beauty videos, but instead I binge-watched episodes of Grey's Anatomy. You know, life and death. Everything else felt flat and meaningless. Maybe I should have tried to rally and apply some cheerful eyeshadow but I just didn't feel like it and I just didn't care. I figure many women in that situation would have found solace and even distraction in their passion for beauty but to me, then, it seemed supremely unimportant. In her hospital, my mom cared about her beauty routines, but I had lost my beauty-vixen mojo. Was I depressed, or had my eyes opened to what was most important in life: good health and healing? Either way, it changed my focus.<br />
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It seemed for a very long time I didn't bother with makeup etc. Then one day I cracked open a new bottle of sunscreen and it was like the first buds of Spring emerging after a dark barren winter. The <b><a href="http://www.dermstore.com/product_Anthelios+50+Tinted+Mineral+Ultra+Fluid+Sunscreen_39190.htm" target="_blank">La Roche-Posey Anthelios 50 Tinted Mineral Ultra Fluid Sunscreen</a></b> went on like a dream and gave me creamy, smooth-looking skin, all with a high spf! I've wanted to try LRP Anthelios for ages and had finally grabbed one at Target a few months back to use when my favorite <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sublime-defense-ultra-lightweight-uv-defense-fluid-spf-50-P311143?skuId=1420223&icid2=products%20grid:p311143" target="_blank">Algenist sunscreen</a> ran out. I wanted the regular formula but I guess I accidentally grabbed the tinted version. Boy am I glad I did! It is not thick in the slightest, not like a BB cream or tinted moisturizer at all. The color seems to dissolve into the skin and yet it does something flattering to the complexion. All without coverage in the traditional sense. Most importantly of all though, is that it provides serious, mineral-based protection from the sun. Initially, the texture feels slightly oily but it absorbs well enough so that you can barely feel it on your skin at all. It is loaded with antioxidants and is safe for sensitive skin. That means no bumps or breakouts! Yay!<br />
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The second beauty product that nudged me out of my lethargy was the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/velvet-lip-glide-P412131?skuId=1870021&icid2=products%20grid%3Ap412131" target="_blank"><b>NARS Velvet Lip Glide</b></a>. These had been all over YoutTube and beauty blogs a couple months back, but charming as they sounded I figured I had enough lip products for the time being. They just didn't jump out at me. Then I got a deluxe size sample of the Glide in my February Sephora Play! Box, but during my hibernation from beauty (and blogging) I completely forgot about it until two days ago when I spotted it and decided to try it on. Oh heaven! It felt so satiny, hydrating, and comforting. The comforting of this liquid lipstick was exactly what I needed. Velvet Glide is not a long-wearing liquid lipstick that stays on forever and drys the bejeezus out of your lips. It is more like someone melted a creamy lipstick, thinned it out with a tad bit of non-sticky gloss, then put some kind of silky moisturizer in it. The opaque formula was such a relief to my poor parched lips. The color I got in my Play! Box wasn't the most flattering shade for me so I <i>want</i> to go to the store and pick out a few shades that I truly love. This isn't transfer-proof, and won't last all day long, but the Velvet Glide is utterly luscious.<br />
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While these two products steered me back toward my passion for beauty, I still don't feel like my usual self. But I guess I'm just someone who would rather help my mom safely take a shower than keep abreast of the latest makeup trends. Or who doesn't blog "monthly favorites" when I don't feel up to it.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-89967181327724794602017-03-02T16:03:00.002-08:002017-03-18T14:30:24.311-07:00comparing more mascarasI just might be the pickiest person on earth when it comes to mascara. And I am so fickle. Some might even call me a mascara whore. I always have at least three or four open and in rotation at any given time. But honestly, half the fun is experimenting with layering different types together. It's very creative, kinda like I get to be with my skincare, or even cooking. I am always in search of the perfect combination, or really the perfect single mascara. I've done a few mascara reviews (links listed below) but I haven't done one in a while so I figured I was due. I've since tested out a good number. But as I said, I am super picky about my mascaras so you may or may not agree with me on some of these reviews. If you have any mascaras you want to recommend to me I would love to know, I am always on the hunt. Does the perfect mascara really even exist?<br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/smokey-eye-mascara-P382581?skuId=1562024&icid2=play_currentmonth_shopproductsb_skugrid_december:p382581" target="_blank"><b>Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara</b></a> gives what I like to describe as a "girl next door" look. You know, kinda average, kinda pretty. The formula is on the dryish side and as it ages it gets thicker and gives more volume. I particularly like this as it matures, it just gets prettier. And one of the best things about it is that it lasts. It wears for hours and hours. It's a workhorse. The wand has a regular bristle brush that delivers no clumps. The Sephora website describes it as having "super-saturated length for stretched-out lashes". I'm not so sure about the lengthening bit but I would say it's a very agreeable mascara - I bet there're people out there who really do love it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaU3LQ2gMCbkjgtW2p-rvF3eux9A52ymnpFhawbF37EmzEKTXJOLEsvt5UMDJLUkVx8czMWHP4PF9wOvfq0chhmFbW5g1dNsJpL7g31nEWpj2MKQyB9J9O03V9LaFjgK2qvzVq2rpC1rg/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaU3LQ2gMCbkjgtW2p-rvF3eux9A52ymnpFhawbF37EmzEKTXJOLEsvt5UMDJLUkVx8czMWHP4PF9wOvfq0chhmFbW5g1dNsJpL7g31nEWpj2MKQyB9J9O03V9LaFjgK2qvzVq2rpC1rg/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/roller-lash-curling-lifting-mascara-P392516?skuId=1665082&icid2=products%20grid:p392516" target="_blank">Benefit Roller Lash Lifting & Curling Mascara</a></b> took a while for me to really appreciate. Everyone around me was raving about it, and even though I had tried it I was focusing more on other mascaras at the time. However now I would say it is one of the better mascaras out there. Heck, it even won an Allure Best Of Beauty 2016 Award. The curved brush head is rubber and the bristles really grab your lashes. They Do lift and Do curl. Maybe not as much as an actually lash curler would, but still....<br />
I just think the not-too-thick, not-too-thin consistency makes for a really flattering look. It's an easy mascara to swipe on, gives great separation, and it never flakes or smudges, or clumps, at least not on me. Plus it comes in brown, and plus the packaging is really cute. I highly suggest giving it a try!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenx0tz0-SU5GkvLoqUwElDd8JO9l9hYyyd_-9WQGmmwzvHHDIz5K4JobGTGuY2g09d9_y4d_JyeFcgtWLRZeHErzVbZVCqL957rJB33qBGQcMVuUwQUKrmoWzgS-Eq7-bZcz1HNoxBq8/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenx0tz0-SU5GkvLoqUwElDd8JO9l9hYyyd_-9WQGmmwzvHHDIz5K4JobGTGuY2g09d9_y4d_JyeFcgtWLRZeHErzVbZVCqL957rJB33qBGQcMVuUwQUKrmoWzgS-Eq7-bZcz1HNoxBq8/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/superhero-elastic-stretch-volumizing-mascara-P411396?keyword=IT%20COSMETICS%20Superhero%C2%99%20Elastic%20Stretch%20Volumizing%20Mascara&skuId=1868215&_requestid=512405" target="_blank">IT Cosmetics Superhero Elastic Stretch Volumizing Mascara</a></b> makes your eyes look wide open. The formula is on the thick side and can get clumpy by the second coat, but I just tweak that with my lash comb designed specifically for such a situation. It's an extremely sexductive mascara and is favored by many a beauty YouTuber. The brush head is dense with regular, not rubber bristles that are very compact. This design gives maximum volume and curl. As with all It Cosmetics products, this mascara has conditioning skincare benefits in the formula, which is awesome although I haven't used it consistently enough to see any conditioning effects. Superhero is in a huge container (with only the average amount of product), so it barely fits in my mascara drawer, but that may be neither here nor there. It is yet another one that lasts all day without flaking or smudging or wearing off. At the same time, it gets very fibrous as it ages. Not flaking off but not the best consistency either I don't think. It's sexy but I'm not sure I'd buy it again. I'd rather keep exploring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3yfnCL-n5ZOoAO37ZPJVIj5ZE_PAPF1SA_xn56nNreYTwVdSrAZ5ou_HbfOIo_EKvevinJZkuc7bUabEWlP3VWnE19RnJzNJ2CP41JIwaRDc9y1wCCt00fzC8wMnYjPbYsOt8tSnHwk/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3yfnCL-n5ZOoAO37ZPJVIj5ZE_PAPF1SA_xn56nNreYTwVdSrAZ5ou_HbfOIo_EKvevinJZkuc7bUabEWlP3VWnE19RnJzNJ2CP41JIwaRDc9y1wCCt00fzC8wMnYjPbYsOt8tSnHwk/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/beauty/makeup/eyes/covergirl-by-lashblast-clump-crusher-mascara-prodid-1014176?skuId=900343" target="_blank">CoverGirl by LashBlast Clump Crusher Mascara</a></b> separates your lashes beautifully with a dry, non-clumpy formula. It is for those who want a natural look. However, on me it always ends up flaking off. I wish it didn't because I adore how it makes my lashes look and the price point can't be beat. I know not everyone has the flaking problem that I do, but for me it was a deal-breaker. The wand is curved and the bristles are quite small and made of rubber. I hope you don't think I'm being snobby about this one because it's drugstore, because really I'm not. Maybelline makes one of my all time favorite mascaras, the <a href="http://www.ulta.com/lash-sensational-mascara?productId=xlsImpprod11851141" target="_blank">Lash Sensational</a>, and in general I prefer Maybelline mascaras over CoverGirl. But do your research on this, read the reviews, because maybe I'm in the minority with the flaking issue. I hope so. Otherwise, it is really a lovely mascara.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYP6hYNYgP2Kuvo0kR8c9drVCLAt5G3_iGMZYXoMphNeUgX-EmRtAFmOcVVqk1r_pdGSWBdUIcsPA3rCY9dIVs8XdXdvFPJkSeakvoUEW3DyC8zWk5GJowVUSt4LIpGiO24jTsfE0DI4/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYP6hYNYgP2Kuvo0kR8c9drVCLAt5G3_iGMZYXoMphNeUgX-EmRtAFmOcVVqk1r_pdGSWBdUIcsPA3rCY9dIVs8XdXdvFPJkSeakvoUEW3DyC8zWk5GJowVUSt4LIpGiO24jTsfE0DI4/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/velvet-noir-major-volume-mascara-P403806?skuId=1758184&icid2=products%20grid:p403806" target="_blank">Marc Jacobs Beauty Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara</a></b><span style="text-align: left;"> is one of the pricier mascaras on this list but is desirable none-the-less. The texture is very wet and very thick and tremendously </span>luxurious,<span style="text-align: left;"> but tends to clump if you are not careful. And don't even get me started on the packaging - it is irresistible! So damn substantial and classy! The bristles are standard bristles that indent in the middle in order to reach and envelope every single lash. I prefer to use only one coat of this, or else layer a lengthening mascara (like the Benefit Roller Lash) on top of the one coat. But for those of you who want mondo volume, and even a bit of chunkiness, this will be the right mascara for you. It's a drama queen!</span></div>
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The <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/v-for-v-o-l-u-m-e-mascara-P415402?skuId=1828078&icid2=products%20grid%3Ap415402" target="_blank">Sephora Collection V For V.O.L.U.M.E. Mascara</a> in Blue </b>was a disappointment to me. I always like to keep a bright blue mascara on hand but because I don't use it everyday I prefer not to spend a lot of money on it. Blue mascaras have been a staple of mine for years and I like some better than others. This one wasn't the worst by any means, but it sure wasn't the best. The color payoff is terrific, nice and bright just how I like it, but the consistency was too wet and gloppy. It just clumped all my lashes together. Often I layer blue mascara on top of a coat of black and I can kind of make it work this way. For a cheap blue mascara I way preferred the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/full-action-extreme-effect-mascara-P278807?skuId=1228048&icid2=products%20grid:p278807" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Full Action Extreme Effect Mascara</a> but unfortunately they no longer make it in blue anymore. This one isn't so bad that I'll throw it away like I did with the CoverGirl Katy Kat Eye Mascara (so dry it hurt my eyes!). I will grin and bear it and use it up. It gets decent reviews on the Sephora website, so maybe I just got a bad one, or maybe the black color works better. But I suspect a big part of the problem is that the (regular) bristles are spaced too far apart and way too stiff. Darn. </div>
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To read about some mascaras that I love check out: <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/07/must-have-mascaras-2016.html" target="_blank">must have mascaras 2016</a>, and <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2012/11/magnificent-mascaras-which-on-is-right.html" target="_blank">magnificent mascaras, which one is right for you?</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span>Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-62997845583900483092017-02-23T14:02:00.002-08:002017-02-23T20:43:35.619-08:00splurge! February 2017I have been hardcore into skincare lately and that obsession is going to be reflected in this month's splurge! post. It's just what's appealing to me right now, especially stuff for dry Winter skin.<br />
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After spending most of my Christmas money on beauty products (what else is new) I am currently on a no-buy. That doesn't stop me from looking though. Or from getting samples. Lots and lots of samples. For future reference, you understand.<br />
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But yeah, I love to look. And I love the feeling of pretending I'm going to buy something outrageously expensive. Is that weird? Call me shallow, but I revel in the feeling I get standing in the middle of luxe department stores' beauty departments. Bloomingdales in Chestnut Hill MA was my first love. Harrod's was crowded and over-whelming, but what an experience. And Barney's in San Francisco makes me feel simultaneously exclusive and hip. Do you ever feel like that? What is your favorite place to splurge (or pretend to splurge)? Here is what I recommend:<br />
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/charlotte-tilbury-magic-night-rescue-cream-intense-firming-plumping-balm-elixir/4261508?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort">Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Rescue Cream</a></b> has it all. In fact, it is called an "intense firming plumping balm-elixir", and contains time-released retinol. But not so much retinol that it disturbs my sensitive skin. Other powerhouse ingredients include: red algae for repairing damage and protecting from further damage, Olus oil and vitamin E, super peptides, and Winter Daphne Stem Cell Extract for firming. Sounds incredible, doesn't it? Its only drawback is what I love most about it, which is the super rich texture. I feel like the texture may be too much for some, but I can't get enough of that emollient goodness. It will probably feel like it is just sitting on your skin but believe me, it is actually penetrating and working wonders. Anyway, I love that feeling. I would slather real butter on my face at night if it worked. No matter how rich a cream or oil I use, my skin always wakes up dry, parched and irritated. Until the CT Magic Night Cream that is. If you are extremely dry or sensitive or menopausal I think you would really adore this moisturizer. It's pricey but is a decent size. I say go to Nordstrom, get a free sample, and try it out for yourself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$145 for 1.7 oz</td></tr>
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The <b><a href="http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/women/fragrances">Les Parfums Louis Vuitton</a></b> collection released last year is scent-sational! Light and lovely, they are not the knock-you-over-the head-type like many luxury brands are. Also the history is fascinating. Until now, LV hasn't released any perfume since right after World War II in 1946. It took a good five years for Jacques Cavallier Belletrud to come up with these seven beauties, and I am enamored with every single one. If you are like me, you may want to go for the <a class="" href="http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/miniature-set-014425">miniatures</a> set with adorable little 10 ml bottles of all seven fragrances for $290. Otherwise, the average 3.4 oz bottle sells for $240, and the large 6.8 oz bottle runs $350. BUT you can bring in your empty bottle and have it refilled for only $130. Now that's a bargain!<br />
Surprisingly, my favorite of the collection is the <a href="http://us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/rose-des-vents-014422">Rose des Vents</a>. I say surprisingly because I have been so bored with rose perfumes lately. But Rose des Vents is not your average rose. It's not a classic rose, it's not a dark rose. It's not even a sophisticated rose. I would call it a fruity rose. I really pick up the peach, and iris, and cedar. And it's probably just my imagination because I don't find these notes listed anywhere, but I think I smell a bit of white floral thrown in. It's divine!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$240 for 100ml</td></tr>
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$33 really isn't all that much money, if say you were going to buy a sweater or an eye cream. But $33 for an eyelash curler falls into the extravagant category. Still, the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/relevee-lash-curler-P394163?keyword=SURRATT%20BEAUTY%20Relev%C3%A9e%20Lash%20Curler%20P394163&skuId=1673482&_requestid=333455">surratt beauty Revelee Lash Curler</a></b> is worthy of its hefty price tag. Beauty mavens worldwide love it for several reasons. #1 No pinching. This is due to the long but shallow curve. #2 It actually elongates the lashes. I'm not quite sure how but it might have something to do with the firm yet bouncy cushion. #3 Sturdily built. #4 Fits well for almost every eye shape. Again because of the long but shallow arc, and also because it opens up really wide. If your budget can handle it, or if you are <i>all about the lashes</i>, then go for it - you'll love it!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$33</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/extra-firming-body-lotion-P393259?keyword=CLARINS%20Extra-Firming%20Body%20Lotion%20P393259&skuId=1319383&_requestid=355816">Clarins Extra-Firming Body Lotion</a></b>. #ohmygodilovethissomuch It goes on like a dream: comforts and moisturizes and smells heavenly. The only problem with it is that it is so luscious I always end up lavishing it on and thus go through the tube all too quickly. I believe the lemon thyme extract smell is literally addictive (and I mean "literally" in the true sense of the word here, not in the over-used jargon way of late). But here is the question you all want to know: does it really firm the skin? Yes, it does a bit. Mostly if you are using it twice a day. It doesn't get rid of cellulite. And it works much better if you go to the effort of dry brushing before you shower, then apply the cream afterward to slightly damp skin. As with your face skincare routine, you need to exfoliate your body's skin in order for products to penetrate better. But honestly, I am often too lazy to do all that. I love this cream anyway and enjoy it for its sensualness alone.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGsXLcdzeAtlM5N6c1d5XhwYV67znVXTjPNyijchEBRWLBsC9qbrW7BZ53aDqmGXy1TrNO4qAh5K2J6x16aQIfEqtRpefpEH2cL9d_etZhcKZWoZVam-O555SE98zhMSeOYV1OG-U-xs/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKGsXLcdzeAtlM5N6c1d5XhwYV67znVXTjPNyijchEBRWLBsC9qbrW7BZ53aDqmGXy1TrNO4qAh5K2J6x16aQIfEqtRpefpEH2cL9d_etZhcKZWoZVam-O555SE98zhMSeOYV1OG-U-xs/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$65 for 6.7 oz</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/la-prairie-cellular-swiss-ice-crystal-dry-oil/3674810?origin=category-personalizedsort">La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Dry Oil</a></b> is insanely expensive but if you are a millionaire it could be worth it. I got several free samples at Nordstrom and fell head-over-heels. I didn't even get enough product to see long-term anti-aging benefits but I appreciated the scent, the texture, and the hydration of it so much that I would buy a full bottle if I could. It is advertised to help with the first signs of aging (lots of antioxidants!), however my already mature skin saw some excellent results from it too.</div>
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I am all about the face oils lately, have been testing out a bunch, and this falls into my top 3 because it is majorly hydrating and very protecting. At first I thought it was a little too greasy then realized I was using way too much of it. A little bit goes a long way! But despite my over-use, it actually absorbed easily. It is quite fragrant (there is "fragrance" listed half-way down the ingredient list) which some of you may not like, but I enjoy the floral/essential oil scent, and besides it didn't seem to irritate my sensitive skin. Bottom line: their "rare and pure seed oils" do the trick! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCtBy5HzaN-C2v1OrulX0uNeRimflAppuhiO3QRxsoKeJ-bgNwTmShBSPcNgLK8pCj8HLg4-sqwRQ1c0BxYLB-8XiTtlNxi0-nFNs2zhEUmOkHrWX6H2R7OUF8viLqybphBWyYYqARaM/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCtBy5HzaN-C2v1OrulX0uNeRimflAppuhiO3QRxsoKeJ-bgNwTmShBSPcNgLK8pCj8HLg4-sqwRQ1c0BxYLB-8XiTtlNxi0-nFNs2zhEUmOkHrWX6H2R7OUF8viLqybphBWyYYqARaM/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$330 for 1 oz</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tom-ford-soleil-blanc-shimmering-body-oil/4295351?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil</a></b> is totally hedonistic. And sparkly - in the best possible way! It's a very light weight oil; not much for hydrating but more for creating opulence. And the smell, wow the smell! It is infused with the <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Tom-Ford/Soleil-Blanc-34893.html" target="_blank">TF Soleil Blanc</a> scent but is smoother and less in your face than the perfume itself. I prefer it. And I can't decide which I like better, the sultry sun-kissed gold and platinum leaf specks, or the tuberose/coconut/amber fragrance. But nevermind, it's a package deal, and the package is magnificent. It probably looks best over a tan but I also like to rock its summertime vibe in the depths of winter to boost my mood and flagging morale. Delicioso!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$98 for 3.4 oz</td></tr>
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If you want to know what else is worth splurging on check out some of my other favorite splurge! posts: </div>
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<a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2015/07/splurge-again.html" target="_blank">splurge! (again)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2015/10/splurge-october-2015.html" target="_blank">splurge! October</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/08/splurge-august.html" target="_blank">splurge! August</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
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Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-60871198768151833372017-02-18T16:49:00.000-08:002017-02-18T20:10:41.487-08:00why I have come to love CliniqueIt used to be that as an esthetician working with professional grade skincare I looked down upon Clinique. I am ashamed to admit I was a snob. Even when working at Sephora years ago I felt there were much more potent and exciting brands to recommend. Clinique just reminded me of 1980 junior high school and my friend Lisa Adler whose mother bought her the ubiquitous toner, yellow moisturizer, and blush in the marbled green compact. We didn't take it seriously at the time, and I still hadn't taken Clinique seriously until about a couple years ago. It turns out I just needed to be brave enough, or open-minded enough, to try.<br />
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It started out gradually. First I bought the <b><a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-quickliner-for-eyes-.01-oz?ID=75206&CategoryID=37086&selectedSize=#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D12%26ruleId%3D77|BS|BA%26slotId%3D5%26kws%3Dclinique%20eyeliner">Quickliner For Eyes</a></b> and ended up very impressed. It was a slow work day at Sephora and I was occupying myself by testing out and swatching random products that were located in my "zone". This included stuff on the Clinique gondola. The Quickliner came in a gorgeous slate color that was creamy but not too soft or oily. It drew an easy line that stayed put. I didn't normally like retractable eyeliners but this one was unusual in that it was able to make a thin enough line. And the rest is history....I have owned several Quickliners by now, the color choices are awesome.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmfVRG359ARR0KZmUJ6Ps4xmlsBI19T_TgdGYWz_vmTT0YwTMH03FhXT-Fc-mkHvF-_x0FUHPWtjR79USEMM1KjRl_ZZUIRYuXtocpytt4dSFv8Ew48dmK9pdYIchUDAApkScebQ2-Y0/s1600/blog.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmfVRG359ARR0KZmUJ6Ps4xmlsBI19T_TgdGYWz_vmTT0YwTMH03FhXT-Fc-mkHvF-_x0FUHPWtjR79USEMM1KjRl_ZZUIRYuXtocpytt4dSFv8Ew48dmK9pdYIchUDAApkScebQ2-Y0/s400/blog.jpeg" width="326" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Way back before the current double-cleansing with oils craze, there was </span><b style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-take-the-day-off-cleansing-balm-3.8-oz?ID=176781&CategoryID=30078#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D6%26ruleId%3D65%26slotId%3D1%26kws%3Dclinique%20take%20the%20day%20off%26searchPass%3DallMultiMatchWithSpelling">Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm</a></b><span style="text-align: left;">. That and the REN balm were pretty much the only oily balm options at Sephora. Of </span>course<span style="text-align: left;"> now TTDO is all you hear about on YouTube. And with good reason. This gently melts and dissolves </span><i style="text-align: left;">all</i><span style="text-align: left;"> makeup without stripping your skin or being harsh in any way. I have never heard of it breaking anyone out either. It is a revelation to me because I no longer have to tug at my eyes to remove my mascara, and there is no stinging involved either. Really it's perfect.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQODRmO63h7pd0KRciu2cuqjlduXVYGVF_9F7qv2iTJTFM2zuBVdOAuLIXmB_sDlYTtkeIXOLeYQRitfRtFfb8NKBGmawpipxV-eMShAiyagf64pZ9WV77AivLLDNfZLWiN7sy5Xwu-k/s1600/blog1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQODRmO63h7pd0KRciu2cuqjlduXVYGVF_9F7qv2iTJTFM2zuBVdOAuLIXmB_sDlYTtkeIXOLeYQRitfRtFfb8NKBGmawpipxV-eMShAiyagf64pZ9WV77AivLLDNfZLWiN7sy5Xwu-k/s320/blog1.jpeg" width="260" /></a></div>
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Or for a lazy superficial cleanse the <b><a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-take-the-day-off-micellar-cleansing-towelettes-for-face-eyes?ID=2889350&CategoryID=30077#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D6%26ruleId%3D65%26slotId%3D3%26kws%3Dclinique%20take%20the%20day%20off%26searchPass%3DallMultiMatchWithSpelling">Take The Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towelettes For Face & Eye</a> </b>are lovely and very effective. Definitely in my top 3 favorite wipes of all time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMKpq9UFOfhsn14gqIqZIbr8MZAKU41WL4rxeV04XkYJYPzexaGyP4xzhzKa6vWdEP_mUWXRPCIiALqqBz1wMYOnmWC1YavXQLXfEXNp-KVhOkxFbLmA1axfiK94oxb6GPtbyf6zLY6M/s1600/blog.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMKpq9UFOfhsn14gqIqZIbr8MZAKU41WL4rxeV04XkYJYPzexaGyP4xzhzKa6vWdEP_mUWXRPCIiALqqBz1wMYOnmWC1YavXQLXfEXNp-KVhOkxFbLmA1axfiK94oxb6GPtbyf6zLY6M/s400/blog.jpeg" width="325" /></a></div>
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After these two discoveries, I grew more confident in the brand. My next purchases were for my increasingly dry skin. I had been obsessed with finding the perfect hydrating spray, when I heard British beauty guru Sally Hughes mention that during her childbirth labor the constant spritzing of <b><a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-moisture-surge-face-spray-thirsty-skin-relief-4.2-fl-oz?ID=118453&CategoryID=30078#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D10%26ruleId%3D65%26slotId%3D5%26kws%3Dclinique%20spray%26searchPass%3DexactMultiMatch">Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray Thirsty Skin Relief</a></b> helped keep her going. That sealed the deal for me! Now it is, by far and away, my most used moisturizing mist. Oil-free, alcohol-free, it is loaded with aloe and glycerin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1fzgU3cN58VgoshFgyefcc-tRgiI9e5dA6zFUgkEE0soYYFh5ft_s2kxp5f9SrTlCKBcIqvANSGxNdsyGtUMw-u6_zKUt8FGBitD_jrdAoINzg-wqdD2a9x0_H5QMq5fJ7k1h7Po7aK4/s1600/blog.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1fzgU3cN58VgoshFgyefcc-tRgiI9e5dA6zFUgkEE0soYYFh5ft_s2kxp5f9SrTlCKBcIqvANSGxNdsyGtUMw-u6_zKUt8FGBitD_jrdAoINzg-wqdD2a9x0_H5QMq5fJ7k1h7Po7aK4/s400/blog.jpeg" width="326" /></a></div>
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The other super hydrator I got was the <a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-smart-night-custom-repair-moisturizer-very-dry-1.7-oz?ID=2588008&CategoryID=30078#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D3%26ruleId%3D65%26slotId%3D2%26kws%3Dcliqnique%20smart%20night%26searchPass%3DallMultiMatchWithSpelling"><b>Smart Night Custom Repair Moisturizer - Very Dry</b></a>. The technology of this cream is amazing. While smoothing lines and wrinkles it also attracts just the right amount of moisture that your skin requires that night. Left to its own devices my skin will wake up in the morning a parched angry red mess, but with this cream I am left plump and smooth and best of all no irritated redness. I have unsuccessfully tried many night creams but Smart Night seems to do the trick. It also comes in lighter weight formulas: dry-combination, and combination-oily.</div>
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My most coveted Clinique product these days is their <b><a href="https://www.macys.com/shop/product/clinique-beyond-perfecting-foundation-concealer-1-oz?ID=1916091&CategoryID=37088&selectedSize=#fn=sp%3D1%26spc%3D26%26ruleId%3D77|BS|BA%26slotId%3D6%26kws%3Dclinique%20foundation" target="_blank">Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer</a></b>. I woudn't normally go for a Clinique foundation but I received a free sample of this and for some reason decided to just try it (see <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2017/01/samples-made-me-buy-it.html" target="_blank">samples made me buy it</a>). I assumed the texture would be too thick and cakey and drying but it turned out smooth and satiny despite its heavy coverage consistency. I was going to save this for special occasion makeup but in fact I love it so much I use it frequently - no special occasion required. It's like velvet! A very flattering velvet.</div>
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Last and best of all, Clinique makes some lesser-known perfumes. Stuff that you can't find at Macy's or Sephora. They almost fall into the niche category, and you could consider yourself uber cool to own them. I discovered their <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Clinique/Beyond-Rose-25726.html" target="_blank">Beyond Rose</a> (a down and dirty amber rose) at Harrod's where it was an exclusive a few years back, but now is available in the states online. I found their <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Clinique/Aromatics-in-Black-31761.html" target="_blank">Aromatics in Black</a> (dry mysterious jasmine and myrrh) at Saks, and am dying to return to get <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Clinique/Aromatics-Black-Cherry-39570.html" target="_blank">Aromatics Black Cherry</a> (spicy green floral fruit with amber). You can read more about these in my post <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/08/huge-perfume-haul.html" target="_blank">huge perfume haul.</a></div>
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I don't know how, when, or where Clinique got such a bad rap (or really more of an indifferent rap) with us beauty snobs, but I am here to say we were wrong. Very wrong. Of course I still wouldn't use their Clarifying Lotions (ie. toners) because they have a lot of alcohol in them, but no brand is perfect. As a professional, I would also recommend their <a href="http://www.sephora.com/age-defense-bb-cream-broad-spectrum-spf-30-P293010?skuId=1362557&icid2=products%20grid:p293010" target="_blank">Age Defence BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30</a>, <a href="http://www.sephora.com/cheek-pop-P384996?skuId=1859735&icid2=products%20grid:p384996" target="_blank">Cheek Pop blush</a>, <a href="http://www.sephora.com/bottom-lash-mascara-P279510?skuId=1305358&icid2=products%20grid:p279510" target="_blank">Bottom Lash Mascara</a>, and the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/non-streak-bronzer-P122772?skuId=51078&icid2=products%20grid:p122772" target="_blank">Clinique For Men Non-Streak Face Bronzer</a> (for women to use as well). Over all, I am excited about Clinique and the direction they are going in. I believe they are totally worth checking out!</div>
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What are your feelings about Clinique?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-7297253865091013512017-02-13T15:43:00.001-08:002017-02-15T13:18:10.563-08:00 England vacation haulI am a huge Anglophile - even my bf is English. All my favorite beauty YouTubers are British too. So when we made our yearly holiday trip to visit his family in the UK, I jumped at the chance to buy everything (well not quite <i>everything</i>) I had seen on my Brit's YouTube channels. There were a few things I really wanted but didn't buy because of my current budget, such as the gorgeous glowy <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/guerlain-parure-gold-fluid-radiance-foundation/p2051106?colour=Beige%20P%C3%A2le" target="_blank">Guerlain Parure Gold Fluid Radiance Foundation</a> ($71.25) that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjEPwaev8_zrpafISAPhruA" target="_blank"><b>Pixiwoo</b></a> used in their video. I by-passed <a href="http://www.sleekmakeup.com/eu/makeup" target="_blank">Sleek MakeUP</a> altogether because they have never appealed to me even though loads of people love their palettes.<br />
And I have to say my biggest enjoyment (and plunder) was going to the famous British drug stores Boots and Superdrug.<br />
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Most of all I was dying to try the <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/COLab-Sheer-%26-Invisible/c/colab-sheer" target="_blank">COlab Dry Shampoo Sheer & Invisible</a> because it was created by the charming Ruth Crilly of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFcvOUnOcfJKg8QsOZT6gKQ" target="_blank"><b>A Model Recommends</b></a>. I found it at Superdrug and chose the "London" ("classic yet contemporary") scent, although judging by what they had in stock "Paris" seemed to be the most popular. That was the full size but I also got the travel size of their <a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/COLAB-Extreme-Volume-Dry-Shampoo-London-50ml" target="_blank">Extreme Volume</a> formula in "Monaco". Both scents were fine, nothing too offensive.<br />
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The <b>Extreme Volume</b> formula is no joke; it thickens up the hair like nobody's business - awesome for those especially greasy days. Or back-combing even. I would have returned to buy a full sized bottle of it but dithered because I worried that it kinda made my hair look dull so I didn't bother. Still, it was so cheap I probably should have anyway.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftylhl1Cms46-kYhpgiyb_4cQu1e-BzQx0mUvG7vEJ1cSYFiUcPsTIpK8UaxuZ5VmtcD6Cy6CcHoSj8ThOKzwPkF9MTqkHe5Y9Jii_XsyMVZ-ecLyFMPOjuO-9qRTEWUZLomB99fZ86Y/s1600/blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftylhl1Cms46-kYhpgiyb_4cQu1e-BzQx0mUvG7vEJ1cSYFiUcPsTIpK8UaxuZ5VmtcD6Cy6CcHoSj8ThOKzwPkF9MTqkHe5Y9Jii_XsyMVZ-ecLyFMPOjuO-9qRTEWUZLomB99fZ86Y/s320/blog.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <b>Sheer & Invisible</b> formula was ok. They claim it leaves no white residue, which is completely true, but it didn't seem to do too much for my hair. No hardcore shampooing. No big volume or texture. It wasn't bad per se, good for a light fluff, and besides I'm excited to own a little piece of Ruth Crilly so I'm glad I got it.<br />
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I bought a horrible mascara but it was because I was jet lagged and not paying attention. I meant to buy the <a href="http://www.boots.com/max-factor-velvet-volume-false-lash-effect-mascara-10199022" target="_blank">Max Factor Velvet Volume False Lash Effect</a> but accidentally grabbed the <a href="http://www.boots.com/loreal-volume-million-lashes-mascara-10103016" target="_blank"><b>L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes</b></a> which you can easily get here in the states. I tried it when I got home and it sucked so bad I immediately threw it out. I was pissed! That's why it isn't even shown in my photo. A stupid mistake. Oh well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS4TwqVksI4dRPASPTL93zOJOsreQac3ImNk6NF1xhXraQcbkzRbMbPf6b691mxYNGr_EpJ_ccBMAHT25DmTsA5tnl3jM1cSA1gqLykl94hDMjnge_n81dXWB9WZlOn2IebKgNw9dBQk/s1600/blog.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS4TwqVksI4dRPASPTL93zOJOsreQac3ImNk6NF1xhXraQcbkzRbMbPf6b691mxYNGr_EpJ_ccBMAHT25DmTsA5tnl3jM1cSA1gqLykl94hDMjnge_n81dXWB9WZlOn2IebKgNw9dBQk/s320/blog.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My best and biggest surprise is the <b><a href="http://www.boots.com/boots-tea-tree-and-witch-hazel-spot-wand-2x-3-5ml-10125611" target="_blank">Boots Tea Tree & Witch Hazel Spot Wand</a></b>. This wasn't on my list of goodies to buy but after the long flight and climate change my skin was looking particularly heinous. I was browsing the aisles looking for anything that might help when I happened upon this. It turned out to work like a charm - got rid of my pimples and redness almost overnight. This has a handy double wand, one end for daytime treatment and one end for nighttime treatment and the formula is very gentle. I should have gone back for a few more to bring stateside. Kicking myself!<br />
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<a href="http://www.boots.com/bioderma-atoderm-lip-balm-4g-10202359" target="_blank"><b> Bioderma Atoderm Lip Balm</b></a> was something I heard about on<b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDO89DCjRd7tt5-yLmRUXKg" target="_blank">Lily Pebbles</a> </b>YouTube channel. She was experiencing severely dry and damaged lips and after much trial and error it ended up being the only thing that helped her. I don't quite find it to be the miracle cure that she did but I love the light silky texture and the ease of applying it in its roll-up tube applicator. It's kind of addictive, I'd probably buy it again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYp38PV4bc__q6GwiCfnwDjpWWTdGxVM51JqIlCy-dCqIBmSEJB4H6ftt610bLHqvjKRnRytBSjkIUk-eYZYQLtr45TKw2zF2CfZs1nxTDx2dlMmJjG73BSuOn_2NmSfY0mRKdAH0yYA/s1600/blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYp38PV4bc__q6GwiCfnwDjpWWTdGxVM51JqIlCy-dCqIBmSEJB4H6ftt610bLHqvjKRnRytBSjkIUk-eYZYQLtr45TKw2zF2CfZs1nxTDx2dlMmJjG73BSuOn_2NmSfY0mRKdAH0yYA/s320/blog.png" width="292" /></a></div>
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During my one cherished day in London (I always wish for more time there) I made a special trip to <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/uv?hl=en&pb=!1s0x487604cc9b392c17:0x90e2b9ffb6353123!2m19!2m2!1i80!2i80!3m1!2i20!16m13!1b1!2m2!1m1!1e1!2m2!1m1!1e3!2m2!1m1!1e5!2m2!1m1!1e4!3m1!7e115!4shttps://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname%3D112992508842635357861%26id%3D6260020616055781826%26target%3DPHOTO!5scharlotte+tilbury+covent+garden+-+Google+Search&imagekey=!1e3!2s-IvrWRseKhrU/VuAPlVKgecI/AAAAAAAAABA/3Z577ApspGILpTBqyfX2CDeUxPZ23hWywCJkC&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjQkfeUg47SAhWlx4MKHVXrA5QQoioIkgEwDw" target="_blank">Charlotte Tilbury's store in Covent Garden</a></b>. I was hoping they still sold their limited edition lipstick The Queen* (a quintessential matte red) but alas it was no longer available. I tried on a couple other lipsticks and when I put on <a href="http://www.charlottetilbury.com/us/k-i-s-s-i-n-g-love-bite.html" target="_blank"><b>K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick in</b> <b>Love Bite</b></a> my friend Tracy and I instantly declared it a "must have". It is a vibrant juicy red leaning a tad bit on the blue-red side. Just right for my complexion. And the creamy formula lasts for hours without bleeding or traveling. A perfect souvenir.<br />
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Even many of the American beauty YouTubers have mentioned the <b><a href="http://www.allbeauty.com/1178060-bourjois-healthy-mix-serum-16h-gel-foundation?ref=%7Badtype%7D&utm_source=%7Badtype%7D&utm_medium=FREE&&currency=USD&country=271&&gclid=CjwKEAiAz4XFBRCW87vj6-28uFMSJAAHeGZboZM688bRqbzSbiYjF6qIiQsvbWu8CcfW4xoxCgWksBoCT9zw_wcB" target="_blank">Bourjois Healthy Mix Gel Foundation</a></b> at some point, so obviously I had to get it. They described it as being light to maybe medium coverage with a natural look. And that is true. But for me, I'd rather use a good tinted moisturizer or CC cream. It didn't do anything for me but then again I'm kinda into a heavier coverage lately. I've only used this twice so I am willing to give it another try. After all, everyone else seems to love it.<br />
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P.S. I just noticed on the Boots website that they seem to have reformulated it, or put out a <a href="http://www.boots.com/bourjois-healthy-mix-foundation-10226173" target="_blank">new version</a>. Maybe I'm not the only one who wasn't wowed by the original formula.<br />
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Of course I had to get a perfume and <b><a href="http://www.florislondon.com/en_usd?gclid=CjwKEAiAz4XFBRCW87vj6-28uFMSJAAHeGZbFO4kOl83rQL9aZnhJsI73nT6MmJeKkRM3j93oPPA5xoCHhbw_wcB" target="_blank">Floris</a></b> seemed the obvious choice. I do love the very British Jo Malone but that is readily available in the states. Floris, however, is harder to come by. It is a traditional British perfume house established in 1730 and the perfume I chose, Edwardian Bouquet, was actually created in 1901. <a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/floris-edwardian-bouquet-eau-de-toilette-100ml/p1853274" target="_blank"><b>Edwardian Bouquet</b></a> is an earthy spicy floral, kind of powdery, kind of regal. It is green hyacinth with a sandalwood base. Many royals and celebrities wear/have worn Floris and this is the second time I bought that brand when in the UK.<br />
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So, what British brands have you heard about or tried? What should I get next year on my annual jaunt?<br />
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* When I went to create the Charlotte Tilbury link I noticed that this was available again on their website. I might buy it but it's not the same as getting "The Queen" actually <i>in</i> England.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-79027928188379314292017-02-07T16:36:00.000-08:002017-02-09T10:04:12.990-08:00January beauty favorites 2017January and February are always rough for me as far as feeling inspired and motivated. Thus this post is overdue because I'd much rather be hibernating like a bear. I've been fantasizing about the "good old days" when people supposedly rose with the sun and went to bed when it got dark. It just seems so much more natural that way, and in sync with things, but how did they get anything done? And did they in fact really do that? Maybe the farmers....<br />
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But I am not a farmer. I am a beauty blogger living in an urban environment, with a crippling reliance on electricity and the internet. So after binge-watching skincare queen Caroline Hirons YouTube videos I am finally feeling a modicum of inspiration (if you are passionate, or even just curious about skincare, you <i>really</i> need to check her out. She's a "cheeky" Brit on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyzKg_t3tPv8Aa_7JL2xXZA" target="_blank">youtube</a>** and <a href="http://www.carolinehirons.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>). <br />
And just to clarify, I wasn't un-inspired about these products, it was only the writing bit that had me procrastinating. The products themselves I LOVE!<br />
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In January I ended up buying a lot of <b>Pixi Beauty</b> skincare and fell hard for their <b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-hydrating-milky-serum-1-01-oz/-/A-49124973" target="_blank">Hydrating </a></b><b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-hydrating-milky-serum-1-01-oz/-/A-49124973" target="_blank">Milky </a></b><b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-hydrating-milky-serum-1-01-oz/-/A-49124973" target="_blank">Serum</a></b>. I really like their <a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-glow-tonic-3-4-fl-oz/-/A-17408487" target="_blank">Glow Tonic</a> glycolic toner, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-16608553" target="_blank">Glow Mist</a> setting spray, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-49128224" target="_blank">Rose Oil Blend</a>, and the new <a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-51183925" target="_blank">Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse</a>, but to me the Milky Serum was the most amazing. My skin had been beyond dry this Winter and nothing was helping until I bought all the new Pixi gear, however it became clear the serum was the heavy-hitter. I tried the serum by itself first and saw some results right away, then after a few days of accumulation my skin was dramatically different. If you haven't tried Pixi skincare you should, the price isn't too high and the products are apparently very effective. My Target is usually sold out of a lot of their stuff so I just order online from <a href="https://www.pixibeauty.com/" target="_blank">their website</a>.<br />
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Now that I have raved on and on about Pixi Beauty I want to rave about my mirror. <a href="http://www.qualitybeautysupplies.com/product/8175038/" target="_blank"><b>The</b> </a><b><a href="http://www.qualitybeautysupplies.com/product/8175038/" target="_blank">Sanheshun 7X Magnifying Lighted Travel Mirror, Locking Suction Mount, battery Operated, Square</a> </b>has been my best beauty investment of 2016. I often take it for granted so kept forgetting to put it in my favorites in 2016, but will mentioning it now. It is a 5.2 X 5.2 inch mirror that I attached to my mirrored medicine cabinet in the bathroom. Despite its title I don't travel with it, it stays put in my bathroom and I use it many, many times a day. I use it to monitor my skin's hydration levels, make sure my foundation has gone on seamlessly, and apply most of my makeup using it, only double-checking it in my big mirror. I love a constant check in throughout the day. And for some weird reason I also like to watch myself brush my teeth up close in it. When I bought this mirror I had no idea it would make such an impact in my life but now I can't imagine not having it. I find it to be the perfect amount of magnifcation; any less wouldn't be enough and any more would be too much for doing my makeup. I got it on Amazon, who are now out of stock, perhaps permanently. As of 2/7/2017 Walmart and ebay are currently, temporarily, out of it so my link is to Quality Beauty Supplies who I know nothing about except that they do have it in stock right now. </div>
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My favorite impulse buy last month was the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/brazilian-kiss-cupua-u-lip-butter-P415747?skuId=1902386&icid2=products%20grid:p415747" target="_blank">Sol de Janeiro Lip Balm Brazilian Kiss Cupuaccu Lip Butter</a></b>. I tossed it in my basket while waiting in line at Sephora without even checking the price (you know their treacherous check out aisle lined with goodies designed to do exactly that). It was almost a dumb move because it turned out to be quite expensive ($18), but I ended up loving it so much it wasn't a regret. Also it's a big fat .21 oz twist-up tube which almost justifies the price (Burt's Bees, Chapstick etc. run about .15 oz). Sol de Janiero is a Brazilian brand that took the world by storm with their famous Bum Bum Cream (details in my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/12/november-beauty-favorites-2016.html" target="_blank">November favorites</a>), and this lip balm is turning out to be just as addictive. It is all natural and the main ingredients are Cupuaccu Butter, Acai, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, and Beeswax. It has a faint almost bakery scent and feels like really silky actual butter on your lips. I keep it right next to my laptop and apply throughout the day. Of course it is very hydrating too!</div>
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Another lip product I am loving is the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/lip-scrub-P409984?skuId=1851393&icid2=products%20grid:p409984" target="_blank">Tarte Lip Facial Lip Scrub</a></b>. Tarte released this months ago, in the Summer I think, and it swiftly sold out everywhere, never to return. Or so we thought. But recently, like magic, it reappeared in my local Sephora and I snapped it up. I had been kicking myself for not buying it the first time round so am very relieved to finally have a go at it. In fact I better return and buy a few more just in case, because I absolutely adore it. For me, it is the best lip scrub I have ever tried. No lie. I like the chubby pencil format that is hydrating as well as exfoliating. The minute scrubby grains aren't harsh at all (the exact right consistency) and are contained in a creamy, slightly sticky lip balm that tastes sweet. I hope Tarte manages to keep it on the market on a permanent basis because I am recommending it to absolutely everyone.</div>
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<b>Flower Beauty</b>, Drew Barrymore's brainchild at Walmart, recently released some terrific new makeup. I bought the <b><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Flower-Cosmetics-Flower-Sweat-Pea-Flower-Pot-Powder-Blush/109289789" target="_blank">Flower Pots Powder Blush in Sweet Pea</a></b> and the <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Flower-Cosmetics-Flower-Shimmer-Strobe-Palette/169385725" target="_blank"><b>Shimmer & Strobe Highlighting Palette</b></a>. Don't make the mistake I made though of assuming all Walmart stores carry the Flower Beauty brand. I drove a half hour to go to the BIG Walmart, assuming that of course they would have the new releases, and was pissed when I got there because they didn't have any Flower products at all. I ended up ordering my goodies on line and paying shipping. Hmph. But anyway it was fine because I ended up loving them. The packaging on all the new stuff is so so pretty!<br />
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The blush looks like a smaller version of the Milani Rose Powder Blush, in other words a beautiful embossed rose. It is a velvety texture with very good pigment and it lasted most of the day on me. The color Sweet Pea is a muted dusty pink that looked natural and flattering if I applied it lightly; pretty bold and more bright if I applied it heavily.<br />
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The highlighting palette is on the powdery side but blended into my skin quite well. It is just a teeny bit sparkly (not glitter, not chunky!) which may or may not be your thing. I liked that it was easy to go for a kinda subtle look with this, but you could build it up even more if you prefer. The palette contains three different colors of highlighter: a true gold, a soft pink, and a light champagne. They seemed to wear almost as long as most highlighters do on me. Certainly for the price point they are great. And fun!<br />
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What are your favorites so far for the new year?</div>
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** Her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUXE7vq--3A" target="_blank">"Empties"</a> videos are so much fun!</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-85024155007943354122017-01-25T16:12:00.001-08:002017-02-01T18:02:58.534-08:00samples made me buy itSometimes shoppers complain about the 100 point perks at Sephora. If you are part of their rewards program you rarely get discounts but you do earn free deluxe size samples or "perks" as they call them. This may sound stingy to some but I have ended up buying quite a few full size products of the samples that I got from Sephora. Obviously it works out well for them but I am always excited to discover new loves. <br />
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Also at Sephora they are happy to make a free sample of whatever product you request. Or they just hand you random stuff they want to promote. But for the purposes of this blog post I am only going to talk about unsolicited samples ie. stuff I did not ask for. Oh with one caveat, a couple of these samples came in my Sephora Play! Box which I guess means I indirectly asked for them, but then again not, because I don't get to choose what's in my box. So yeah, these are all going to be products I didn't specifically request, wasn't even looking for, and in some cases didn't even think I'd like. But like them I did, in fact LOVED them, and so ended up spending my own money buying them. <br />
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Here is what I am excited about, my wonderful inadvertent discoveries:<br />
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My latest and greatest is the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/beyond-perfecting-foundation-concealer-P393325?keyword=CLINIQUE%20Beyond%20Perfecting%20Foundation%20%2B%20Concealer%20P393325&skuId=1674589&_requestid=328903" target="_blank">Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer</a></b>. I got a little sachet of this with an online order and assumed I wouldn't like it because I thought it would be thick and cakey and drying. Something got into me one day though and I just put it on and was delightfully surprised at how flawless it made me look. It had a nice satin finish, not dry at all, and a full coverage effect that didn't look cakey in the least. It instantly became my most favorite foundation (and I am a foundation hoarder).<br />
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I don't remember exactly how I got a sample of <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/perversion-mascara-P387956?keyword=URBAN%20DECAY%20Perversion%20Mascara%20P387956&skuId=1635770&_requestid=342685" target="_blank">Urban Decay Perversion Mascara</a></b>, I think maybe it was in a Play! box, but it ended up making my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/07/must-have-mascaras-2016.html" target="_blank">Must Have Mascaras</a> list. It gave super great, moist, volume for an irresistible come-hither look. A couple coats of this and I would say it is one of the most volumizing but clump-free mascaras I have ever tried.</div>
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One day at the cash register a Sephora Sales Associate tossed a handmade sample of <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/blue-tansy-aha-bha-resurfacing-clarity-mask-P400207?keyword=HERBIVORE%20Blue%20Tansy%20AHA%20%2B%20BHA%20Resurfacing%20Clarity%20Mask%20P400207&skuId=1754589&_requestid=350066" target="_blank">Herbivore Blue Tansy AHA + BHA Resurfacing Clarity Mask</a></b> in my bag. When I got home I was just going to throw it out because I thought it would be too harshly clarifying; more for someone with oily skin. But I decided to try it on my T-zone and it turned out not to be too harsh at all. In fact it gave me no redness whatsoever, but it did eliminate every last blackhead. Amazing! Now it's my favorite way to exfoliate (I only leave it on for 5 mins. because of my sensitive skin).</div>
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I got a travel size <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/wave-spray-P406665?skuId=1802107&icid2=ouai_lp_styling_formulas_carousel:p406665" target="_blank">Ouai Wave Spray</a></b> in one of my Play! boxes. It was pretty cool but what I really fell in love with was the brand itself. The spray enhanced a gentle wave and texture in my hair without being sticky or too dry. Nice, but it also meant there wasn't as much hold as some other wave sprays. However it was evident that the quality of the product was exquisite, healthy, and luscious. Needless to say I am dying to try more from Ouai!</div>
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In another Play! box was a small size of the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/waterproof-contour-eye-pencil-P377784?skuId=1473883&icid2=products%20grid%3Ap377784" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Contour Eye Pencil 12hr Wear Waterproof in Flirting Game-Taupe</a></b>. I tried it in a what-the-hell moment and it ended up lasting all day. And let me tell you, that is a feat because I have very watery eyes. There are a scant few eyeliners that I can wear. The color was a lovely neutral shade (actually a bit darker than what I consider taupe to be) which went with many eye looks, and I liked how the soft creamy texture gave me a sultry expression. </div>
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I adored the deluxe sample of <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/super-mud-clearing-treatment-P376409?skuId=1901230&icid2=products%20grid:p376409" target="_blank">Glam Glow Supermud Clearing Treatment</a></b> mask against all odds. I never would have chosen it because it was supposedly for normal to oily skin and my skin was dry and sensitive. Who knows why I decided to try it, but it made my face look glorious. I was all glowy! My skin was actually hydrated and thoroughly cleaned out while all redness was reduced. I don't know how others' dry sensitive skin would like it, but mine loved it.</div>
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I got a little card of <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/merry-maker-P407368?skuId=1807973&icid2=products%20grid:p407368" target="_blank">Pinrose Merry Maker Eau de Parfum </a></b>with an online order and after wearing it for only a day went and ordered a full bottle of it (partially because it turned out to be fairly inexpensive). It even made it into my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/12/november-beauty-favorites-2016.html" target="_blank">November Favorites</a> post. It was a sexy nectarine scent that for some reason reminded me of popular unisex fragrances of the 90s. Very nostalgic, and I became addicted to its uplifting vibe!</div>
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What samples, from Sephora or elsewhere, have caused <i>you</i> to buy a full size?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-56713083891491341302017-01-18T12:42:00.001-08:002017-01-19T09:57:55.864-08:00best of beauty 2016 (finally!)I don't know what it is but coming back from England I get the worst jet lag and can't seem to move a muscle. I had been planning to blog a day or two after returning from vacation but the jet lag laid me low. It's embarrassing to be so tardy but it's is all I have by way of an excuse that my "Best of 2016" post is so late. Hopefully you aren't bored of reading these types of posts by now, but I think you'll find I have some different stuff on my list from everyone else. Either way I hope you enjoy. Personally, I will be repurchasing these items again and again. <br />
Also to clarify, these are not necessarily products that were released in 2016, they are just what I loved the most. So really, this could be titled "beauty favorites of 2016". OK?<br />
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HIGH END<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkIp6u3cmjfKWI2PgmnUz1xUla3dBoSo3hg3lWTF-HnzVDZFFgapLsi-R2cFwQVYd20Jm1U8JjTLUrzb_xRUHAswGpNibA6pHGQHX4fQbNayKVvoOGQj4W4qY1bee0GYHlxL4EeY7wSM/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkIp6u3cmjfKWI2PgmnUz1xUla3dBoSo3hg3lWTF-HnzVDZFFgapLsi-R2cFwQVYd20Jm1U8JjTLUrzb_xRUHAswGpNibA6pHGQHX4fQbNayKVvoOGQj4W4qY1bee0GYHlxL4EeY7wSM/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tom-ford-eyeshadow-quad/3622573?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Disco Dust</a></b> was used on many an occasion. It makes for the simplest, prettiest, one-shadow eye look around. The colors go with everything, and there is a little bit of sparkle if you want to jazz things up. Superb smooooooth quality too.<br />
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hermes-eau-de-rhubarbe-ecarlate-perfumed-bath-and-shower-gel/4343503?cm_mmc=google-_-productads-_-Women%3AFragrance%3ASoap-_-5161601&rkg_id=h-4207c11d982d03f094364a55f6a57493_t-1484767601&adpos=1o3&creative=145518892756&device=c&network=g&gclid=CjwKEAiAwfzDBRCRmJe7z_7h8yQSJAC4corOwQDbj50nGTuKveKKEOD1Fx0Oua1FzvG2Md0NycC2UhoCvRfw_wcB" target="_blank">Hermes Eau De Rhubarbe Ecarlate Perfumed Bath And Shower Gel</a></b> is the perfect pick-me-up. It smells divine! And I can't resist the glowing ruby red packaging. This is really the perfect treat for yourself and I highly suggest this fresh scent to get you through the long dreary Winter.<br />
<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/dior-creme-de-rose-smoothing-plumping-lip-balm-spf-10/3079335?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BLACK%2F%20ROSE%20GOLD" target="_blank"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/dior-creme-de-rose-smoothing-plumping-lip-balm-spf-10/3079335?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BLACK%2F%20ROSE%20GOLD" target="_blank">Dior Creme De Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm</a></b> has the most irresistible texture of any lip balm I've ever tried. And the light rose scent is delightful too. I'm a lip balm junkie and this is by far my most favorite of all that I've tried. Plus the packaging is so chic!<br />
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DRUG STORE<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_Mv5dMbX7LRg8NSU-n1zDy90mjWokZj9DDslGQGMNeMUjDNZikWqr0qeyHjSDPcu3oNdTjSSzK2Pf97O8gxIKqqsHtiMTSC7OMzHrPNoAEh4P-xRLhkgbfZ7UVvORfeT4TZ7ixzvBtM/s1600/blog3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk_Mv5dMbX7LRg8NSU-n1zDy90mjWokZj9DDslGQGMNeMUjDNZikWqr0qeyHjSDPcu3oNdTjSSzK2Pf97O8gxIKqqsHtiMTSC7OMzHrPNoAEh4P-xRLhkgbfZ7UVvORfeT4TZ7ixzvBtM/s320/blog3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/physician-s-formula-bronzer-light-pastel-38-oz/-/A-49123730?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Health+Beauty+Shopping_Brand&adgroup=SC_Health+Beauty&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9032180&gclid=CjwKEAiAwfzDBRCRmJe7z_7h8yQSJAC4corOSZxRqJk01ATyxs_gvnFap1YI1HVEKax5glOp1lITcRoCK3rw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank"><b>Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer</b></a> is on many beauty influencer's 'best of 2016' list. It is subtle (unless you are extremely pale I would get the darker of the two shades) and a breeeze to use. I think the color is really natural-looking and because of all that, and the silkiness, it is utterly addictive.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/l-or-al-paris-brow-stylist-definer/-/A-50424198" target="_blank">L'Oreal Brow Stylist Definer</a></b> pencil gives me the best look. Something about the texture is just right: not too waxy, not too creamy. I would normally blow through these guys but one pencil seems to last for ages. I like it better than any of the high end alternatives.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/garnier-skinactive-micellar-cleansing-water-all-in-1-makeup-remover-cleanser/-/A-51848264" target="_blank">Garnier SKINACTIVE Micellar Cleansing Water All-In-One Makeup Remover & Cleanser</a></b> has a long name but yields excellent results. Nice and cheap, I think it does at least as good a job of cleansing my face as the more expensive brands do. Perfect for a lazy day/night - I rely on it heavily!<br />
<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-14468993" target="_blank"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-14468993" target="_blank">Bio-Oil Specialist Skincare</a></b> is what I use all over my body immediately after showering while my skin is still damp. I love the consistency because it is super hydrating without being too too heavy. It's not greasy at all. Plus it has a nice faint, sort of floral scent. Dermatologist recommended!<br />
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LIMTED EDITION<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghaeFX9G9os_2Y-sXoBBQXUD6Y7aN_NmRkB1rb9PGn-NKUvtwKjwMqcaDl-i98HXedNck2P6I8mugQcF36UyOAk3dxJYXZEN6ktLGJDsrXtBsT0WN-QJW6g1l68QMbwkjCTnBxQB4arD0/s1600/blog8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghaeFX9G9os_2Y-sXoBBQXUD6Y7aN_NmRkB1rb9PGn-NKUvtwKjwMqcaDl-i98HXedNck2P6I8mugQcF36UyOAk3dxJYXZEN6ktLGJDsrXtBsT0WN-QJW6g1l68QMbwkjCTnBxQB4arD0/s400/blog8.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.juviasplace.com/collections/eyeshadow-palettes/products/masquerade-palette?variant=33980538694" target="_blank">Juvia's Place Masquerade Palette</a></b> started out as limited edition but it was so popular I believe it is now part of their permanent collection. The vivid eyeshadow colors and formulas are astounding and the price quite reasonable. If you want to see swatches and more details check out my post <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/juvias-place-masquerade-mini-eyeshadow.html" target="_blank">Juvia's Place The Masquerade Mini Eyeshadow Palette & Feeding Your Soul</a>.<br />
<b><a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/322387783638?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true" target="_blank"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/322387783638?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true" target="_blank">BECCA Jaclyn Hill Champagne Collection Face Palette</a></b> is long gone unless you want to spend a fortune on ebay. For that reason I hate to mention it, however I bought it primarily for the blushes (there are 3 blushes, 2 highlighters) and so I am highly recommending any of the Jaclyn Hill BECCA blushes that are in the permanent collection. I was particularly drawn to this palette's colors but all of their blushes are exquisite.<br />
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MISC<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/complexion-rescue-tinted-hydrating-gel-cream-P393356?skuId=1687912&icid2=products%20grid:p393356" target="_blank">bareMinerals COMPLEXION RESCUE Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream</a></b> rendered me many compliments whenever I wore it. I liked to slather it on because of the spf 30, and it always made my skin glowy/not greasy. Easy-peasy to apply, it was the perfect solution for my no-makeup makeup days (it's basically a tinted moisturizer/BB cream).<br />
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What were your beauty faves of 2016? Do tell!<br />
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #323232; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.3636px; line-height: 21.9744px;"><span style="font-size: 16.3636px; line-height: 21.9744px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></span><span style="background-color: #fff4ea; color: #323232; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14.49px;"> </span>Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-60448651187206583092016-12-26T10:10:00.000-08:002017-02-13T16:09:35.573-08:00holiday vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaWalatnSlTm1XJZ2C4ovlo5gzISCKi_eLwJFy3pBZYErY5eEt8d4PJJ3SUgltQ36_jQ4dlcVF-D42T9ylWxSacQFhTTRVE7JTlpHGzalWJ2ZAVb-whX2OqtuKcMsPctM05vy-joiMxk/s1600/tgif1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaWalatnSlTm1XJZ2C4ovlo5gzISCKi_eLwJFy3pBZYErY5eEt8d4PJJ3SUgltQ36_jQ4dlcVF-D42T9ylWxSacQFhTTRVE7JTlpHGzalWJ2ZAVb-whX2OqtuKcMsPctM05vy-joiMxk/s320/tgif1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Bright lights, big city! I hope your Winter Holidays are merry and bright! I am off to England for a couple weeks, for a whirlwind visit that won't allow me anytime to blog. But I will return in January with a post about <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2017/01/best-of-beauty-2016-finally.html" target="_blank">my all time favorite beauty products of 2016</a>. In the meantime, hit up those post-Christmas sales and have a Happy New Year!</div>
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love,</div>
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Kate</div>
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UPDATE: Now that I am back check out my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2017/02/england-vacation-haul.html" target="_blank">haul from the UK</a>.</div>
<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-65319453772155910852016-12-17T12:02:00.000-08:002016-12-17T15:26:08.746-08:00wonderful winter perfumes (classics)I've been really into classic scents lately. When I went to write this winter perfume blog post there weren't any recent perfumes that inspired me. It could just be my mood, but also don't you think Winter is the perfect time for classics: cozy, warm, sultry, and even sometimes sophisticated. And of course there is the nostalgic factor. I think you can be nostalgic for an era that happened before you were even born. All the perfumes listed below have some of that romance. It's not too late to put one of these on your Christmas wish list!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Gucci/Gucci-Rush-686.html" target="_blank">Gucci Rush</a></b> is ideal. It's a white floral with much patchouli and spice. It can also be described as an oriental with a good dose of vanilla. Created in 1999 the reference to cocaine ("rush") and the tape cassette case shape of the bottle are now a bit dated, but the scent remains a classic. I wore it all Christmas long in 2007 so for me it is particularly nostalgic this time of year, and if you are lucky it could end up that way for you too. If I were to be imaginative, I would say Rush reminds me of burning red pillar candles in a boudoir, a woman getting ready in her corset and hose, a gardenia tucked behind her ear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6VtFNtkq3LnbYHU-Z0u47zFJ0UT7vDOLP_2Dfony2M8DudUNUcCcKYfcGUEsa2oBbFmWBvemTttmCUKmxRznQSyP6PkgvvcolHzLIUOG3lRZNaqGQkiczqeVTxiKy1Nh9kD0hV7-w-k/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_6VtFNtkq3LnbYHU-Z0u47zFJ0UT7vDOLP_2Dfony2M8DudUNUcCcKYfcGUEsa2oBbFmWBvemTttmCUKmxRznQSyP6PkgvvcolHzLIUOG3lRZNaqGQkiczqeVTxiKy1Nh9kD0hV7-w-k/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/Fragrance-CUIR-DE-RUSSIE--120502" target="_blank"><b>Chanel Cuir de Russie</b></a> is definitely one I turn to when the weather gets cold. The name means "Russian Leather" and the tang of fur pelts in a horse drawn sleigh is an image that immediately springs to mind. Significant jasmine and rose add to the romance of it all, and like many Chanel perfumes it contains some powdery notes too. Cuir was created in 1924 to celebrate the emancipation of women, allowing them to smoke in public with class. And this is certainly one classy perfume!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/-/A-14604803" target="_blank">Cabochard by Perfumes De Gres</a></b> is a lighter option - perfect for someone adverse to orientals. It is also perfect because you can get it for under $20 at Target or Amazon. At the time it was created in 1959, Madames Gres said it reminded her of her long and empty walks along the beaches of India. It doesn't smell super beachy to me but I do get echoes of loneliness/emptiness in it. It is very woody, a little bit floral (rose/jasmine/geranium), and an exemplary <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/groups/chypre.html" target="_blank">chypre</a>. The reason I like it for winter is because of its duskiness and vintage couture vibe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMGZ6mBthbmzNp-Wk8WhIOyBolHpVQSoS85U5jo051oJU0PoNNiMeSvq_wr2xFxUPRwsyd1KQ13X56Fl3P0XxP2Z5fZRJIs_Ap0SW2o1YBUnPDhKwHuYj7gujVehfjPL96Pn65F0P10k/s1600/blog.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpMGZ6mBthbmzNp-Wk8WhIOyBolHpVQSoS85U5jo051oJU0PoNNiMeSvq_wr2xFxUPRwsyd1KQ13X56Fl3P0XxP2Z5fZRJIs_Ap0SW2o1YBUnPDhKwHuYj7gujVehfjPL96Pn65F0P10k/s320/blog.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/la-vie-est-belle-P375939?keyword=LANC%C3%B4ME%20La%20Vie%20Est%20Belle%20P375939&skuId=1459999&_requestid=376043" target="_blank">Lancome La Vie Est Belle</a></b> is a sweet treat. And supposedly it is a perfume adored by French women - a national favorite apparently. I used to love it madly but these days I tend to just admire the beauty of the bottle on my dresser. You know how you go in phases. Still, I'm sure I will come back to it one day because it really is quite lovely. The powdery iris tampers the heavily gourmand notes of black current, pear, and praline. And of course the patchouli saves the day. It's a newbie (only created in 2012) but to me has the glamour of a 1950's bright young Hollywood starlet, not all that long off the train from her small town in Minnesota, ready and eager for her first starring film role.</div>
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<b>Go vintage!</b> You can find something precious on etsy, ebay, or a small decant or sample from websites like <a href="https://surrendertochance.com/search.php?search_query=vintage" target="_blank">Surrender To Chance</a> and <a href="http://theperfumedcourt.com/search.aspx?keyword=vintage" target="_blank">The Perfumed Court</a> can be a good way to start. If you are new to vintage and have no idea where to begin I suggest something from <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/279472210/vintage-lanvin-crescendo-extrait-parfum?ref=market" target="_blank">Lanvin</a></b>. Vintage perfumes are very strong and intense so I say go with that vibe and get something flat out dirty-sexy. Lanvin has a few of such; Crescendo (1965) being my favorite because it is a complex floriental. However their most known vintage perfume is the musky/powdery/floral My Sin (1924). You can tell from the name alone it's going to be good!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQ94ajnr08rblVhhR7g75rrICVdEaGyUIsvblz13zfH-TcD3vf-0TVinfn1kndGwqzgY4PJmpj3Ee-wEyfBNsOL16fxoUzT10q3kDkHhxZmdW4w3zZdjpg8T2QobgxLe_sduIqyDoLdI/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQ94ajnr08rblVhhR7g75rrICVdEaGyUIsvblz13zfH-TcD3vf-0TVinfn1kndGwqzgY4PJmpj3Ee-wEyfBNsOL16fxoUzT10q3kDkHhxZmdW4w3zZdjpg8T2QobgxLe_sduIqyDoLdI/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/pure-poison-P76000?skuId=787168&icid2=products%20grid:p76000" target="_blank">Dior Pure Poison</a></b> is my favorite of all the Poison perfumes. Now this was only created in 2004, but the original <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Christian-Dior/Poison-218.html" target="_blank">Poison</a> was created in 1985 and Pure, while more modern, still retains a bit of that essence. It is orange, orange blossom and gardenia; sandalwood, cedar, and amber. Mmmmmm! But even saying that doesn't convey its uniqueness. It's intoxicating in an ice princess kind of way. I almost bought it for the holographic poisoned apple bottle alone!</div>
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For more Winter perfume ideas check out my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2015/11/recommended-winter-perfumes.html" target="_blank">recommended winter perfumes 2015</a>.</div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-308774042075273362016-12-13T12:34:00.000-08:002016-12-13T13:22:52.109-08:00sensational stocking stuffers 2016I don't mean to stress you out but we're getting down to the wire here folks. Christmas and Hanukah are less than two weeks away and if you are going to be shopping on line you'll need plenty of time for delivery. Plus the mall near my house is absolutely insane right now - perhaps the most insane mall there is at this time of year, the lines for the parking lot extend for blocks. I set my alarm for early am and get to the stores first thing while I've still got a chance to shop without getting claustrophobic. <br />
But anyway it's worth it because there is some awesome stuff out there and many sensational options for stocking stuffers. Here are a few.....<br />
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The <b><a href="https://www.beautylish.com/s/anna-sui-makeup-palette-01" target="_blank">$10 Anna Sui Makeup Palettes</a></b> are to die for. I hate how I always say "to die for", and I'm trying to stop saying it, but really in this case it is true. These are small empty palettes, like a mini Z palette, for you to put your own shadows or blush in. I can't get over the faux Victorian design - it's so striking. And as a stocking stuffer it is beautiful and unique as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTs6byb08BrFqhg7gwG48D33etJPh8KZi493C7iieB1RNJpRU4t6ucA9_9qcCM5sgC9AKoT_eDci-66GRVkqA0zh3TG8DVZ9zulkJ2I2ia8GJNM1bpwDJEsv-8sd654aVbUtEtCKdj0X0/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTs6byb08BrFqhg7gwG48D33etJPh8KZi493C7iieB1RNJpRU4t6ucA9_9qcCM5sgC9AKoT_eDci-66GRVkqA0zh3TG8DVZ9zulkJ2I2ia8GJNM1bpwDJEsv-8sd654aVbUtEtCKdj0X0/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/relevee-lash-curler-P394163?skuId=1673482&icid2=products%20grid:p394163" target="_blank">Surratt Relevee Lash Curler $30</a></b> is supposed to be the very best eyelash curler out there. It is pricey for such an item but that is what makes it the perfect gift. Any makeup maven worth her salt would really appreciate this. It is a great size to fit in a stocking as well, but buy it NOW - they are always selling out.</div>
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Anything from <b><a href="http://www.lushusa.com/christmas/" target="_blank">LUSH</a></b> is fun fun fun. A bath bomb will fit in a stocking nicely, or a travel size shower gel too. They have some fabulous limited edition stuff for Christmas like the: <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/bath/bath-bombs/butterbear/05433.html" target="_blank">Butter Bear Bath Bomb</a>, <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/bath/bath-bombs/golden-wonder/03460.html" target="_blank">Golden Wonder Bath Bomb</a>, or <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/shower/shower-gels/snow-fairy/9999906474.html" target="_blank">Snow Fairy Shower Gel</a>. And LUSH is all about the scent, so anything you choose from them will smell divine.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Christmas Penguin Bubble Bar $7.45 - so cute!<br />
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And speaking of wonderful scents, a pillow spray to help your loved one fall asleep at night is a terrific idea. Kohl's has a good one on sale for $5.85. It's the <b><a href="http://www.kohls.com/product/prd-292137/earth-therapeutics-pillow-mist.jsp?ci_mcc=ci&utm_campaign=BATH%20%26%20BODY&utm_medium=CSE&utm_source=google&utm_product=12226308&CID=shopping15&gclid=Cj0KEQiA7K7CBRCrwt26v5uHs98BEiQA0JzsZ_OXSxr9vksu1PxRh-Gjfc47nX56nUjZQSsHOQkaQoYaAuBj8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CJL--dzd6tACFVMUgQodsEQHwA" target="_blank">Earth Therapies Pillow Mist</a> </b>which<b> </b>has actual valerian in it, a super relaxing essential oil. Or another cool option is the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/This-Works-Sleep-Pillow-Spray/dp/B006VT8G1O/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481410835&sr=8-1&keywords=this+works+pillow+spray" target="_blank">This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray $29</a></b> which is extremely popular in the UK (they may be on to something!) Note: both options heavily feature lavender.<br />
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If you have several stockings to fill the <b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/fresh-sugar-lip-showcase-limited-edition-107-value/4493363?cm_mmc=google-_-productads-_-Women%3AMakeup%3ALip-_-5267004&rkg_id=h-4207c11d982d03f094364a55f6a57493_t-1481411608&adpos=1o1&creative=145518892747&device=c&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQiA7K7CBRCrwt26v5uHs98BEiQA0JzsZ5rgWVkWK0mILJnVrDbZEs3vVUVcUu7wSZAxNzEgmFIaAlfH8P8HAQ" target="_blank">Fresh Sugar Lip Showcase $77</a></b> is a good option. Everyone loves the Fresh Sugar lip balms (tinted or plain), so these would make a luxe stuffer. Break the set up and throw in one, or throw in a few, per stocking; the price works out to $8.50 each. If you've never tried one of these balms they are extremely nourishing.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/matte-bronzer-P404797?skuId=1782077&icid2=products%20grid:p404797" target="_blank">The Milk Makeup Matte Bronzer stick $24</a></b> is a cute little number and gives a natural-looking sun-kissed look. Milk Makeup PR says their products are "smart, multi-functional, easy to use" - what could be better for a stocking? </div>
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<b>Rollerball perfumes</b> are an ingenious stocking stuffer, and the options are endless. You can find them at <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=rollerball%20perfumes&mode=all" target="_blank">Sephora</a> or <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-rollerball%20perfumes/Nty-1?Dy=1&ciSelector=searchResults" target="_blank">Ulta</a> or even <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/search?keyword=rollerball+perfume" target="_blank">Bloomies</a> and <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/featured/rollerball-perfume" target="_blank">Macy's</a>. They are usually in the $20-$28 price range. You could get your loved one a convenient travel size of their favorite perfume or give them a commitment-free size of something new to try. Popular these days are: <a href="http://www.ulta.com/stash-eau-de-parfum-rollerball?productId=xlsImpprod14631143" target="_blank">SJP Stash</a> (amber unisex), <a href="http://www.ulta.com/mon-paris-eau-de-parfum-rollerball?productId=xlsImpprod14421029" target="_blank">YSL Mon Paris</a> (youthful fruity floral), or <a href="http://www.sephora.com/orange-sanguine-cologne-absolue-travel-spray-P379039?skuId=1499235&icid2=products%20grid:p379039" target="_blank">Atelier Cologne Orange Sanguine</a> (zesty unique niche brand).</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/brand/leaders" target="_blank">Leaders</a></b> makes some of the best <b>sheet masks</b> out there and they only run $5-$9 each. Even just writing about them makes me want to buy a bunch for myself, so I'm sure your stocking person would love them too. Give one or give several, there are all different types from "lifting", or "calming coconut", to "pore gone for good". Excellent!</div>
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For more Holiday 2016 gift recommendations check out my posts <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/holiday-gift-ideas-for-him.html" target="_blank">Holiday gifts ideas for him 2016</a> and <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/holiday-gift-guide-2016-exquisite-sets.html" target="_blank">Holiday gift guide 2016: exquisite sets</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-52121652591680783292016-12-05T14:48:00.000-08:002016-12-05T14:54:36.221-08:00November beauty favorites 2016This month's beauty favorites is mostly makeup. Usually I like to mix it up a bit more but I can't seem to help it, I am all about the makeup these days. Plus Sephora had a couple big sales so I had to partake of them, and a lot these goodies were from those hauls. All that makes for a pretty exciting post I think. However now I am on a "no buy" period (excluding holiday gifts for others). I'm not even going to purchase holiday decor even though things look a little sparse this year. Well, maybe I'll get a poinsettia...or two..... <br />
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In my opinion nothing can compare to <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/maxilash-volumizing-and-curling-mascara-P377276?skuId=1473503&icid2=guerlain_lp_bestsellers_carousel_us:p377276" target="_blank">Guerlain Maxilash Volumizing and Curling Mascara</a></b>. Yes it's a lot to pay for a mascara ($32), but it makes me SO happy. It gives the perfect amount of volume with actual curl and it doesn't smudge or flake in the least bit. This has a small-medium size natural brush and will keep your look going all day long. Bottom line: very very flattering.<br />
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I had been wanting the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/sweethearts-bronzer-P407911?keyword=too%20faced%20sweet%20tea&skuId=1806587&_requestid=549009" target="_blank">Too Faced Sweethearts Bronzer</a></b> for ages and finally bought it during Sephora's VIB sale (it is also available at Ulta). It did not disappoint! It's a nice, fairly neutral-toned, bronze color with a surprising amount of pigment - all you need is a very light touch. One side of the heart is a lighter shimmery bronze, and the other size is deeper with a satin finish. Personally I like to swirl the two sides together for a luminous look, but you could play around with it. And as with all Too Faced makeup the packaging is adorable - lots of product inside as well!</div>
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I am in love with <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/brazilian-bum-bum-cream-P406080?keyword=SOL%20DE%20JANEIRO%20Brazilian%20Bum%20Bum%20Cream%20P406080&skuId=1802412&_requestid=556798" target="_blank">Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream</a></b>! The scent is wonderfully addictive but the cream is also hydrating and I do think definitely firming. They say to use it on any body parts that need a little lift and firm, but I love it so much I just use it all over (besides who has time to be applying two or three different moisturizers?). Normally I dislike body moisturizers that come in a jar because I am fundamentally lazy and prefer an easy-to-use pump. I almost didn't buy the Bum Bum Cream because of that but I am so glad I didn't listen to my inner lazy girl. This stuff is a joy to apply and I don't seem to mind what kind of container it comes in - it is totally worth it. </div>
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Whenever I wear eyeshadow from my <b><a href="http://www.juviasplace.com/product-p/mas101a.htm" target="_blank">Juvia's Place The Masquerade Mini Palette</a></b> I get massive compliments. People will say I look so pretty, or that I am looking especially well that day. Now, who wouldn't like that? I did a whole <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/juvias-place-masquerade-mini-eyeshadow.html" target="_blank">review on this palette</a> so you can get all the deets there, but needless to say I am crazy for it. The colors in this palette may not be everyone's cup of tea but the quality and texture of Juvia's Place eyeshadows is divine so you might want to check out <a href="http://www.juviasplace.com/product-p/jnb01.htm" target="_blank">The Nubian Eyeshadow Palette</a> that is more tame/mostly neutrals. I know I will be buying that one next.</div>
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Another beauty item that always garners compliments is my new <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/merry-maker-P407368?keyword=PINROSE%20Merry%20Maker%20%20P407368&skuId=1807973&_requestid=577346" target="_blank">Pinrose Merry Maker Eau de Parfum</a></b>. I bought it last month and have been wearing it a ton since then. It is bright and fresh and fun and fruity, and think I like it for nostalgic reasons because it reminds me of two very pleasant times in my past. One was in the early 90s when all the hot young guys were wearing CK One, and the other was 2007 when I was newly emplyed at Sephora and we had a really terrific group of people working together there. Merry Maker notes include: nectarine, grapefruit, cassis, violet, rose, plum, musk, moss, Tonka.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/studded-kiss-lipstick-P387435?skuId=1621572&icid2=products%20grid:p387435" target="_blank">Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Lolita</a></b> is described as a "matte dusty rose" but I love it because it also has a warm undertone of terra cotta. It's a beautiful color combination. At first I didn't like the texture of the lipstick because it is dry. But strangely it's not cakey dry. It somehow molds to my lips in the most flattering way so that it doesn't <i>look</i> dry. It is a matte, slightly on the sheer side formula that wears for hours. With a clear gloss on top it is truly stunning. I have come to crave the look and feel of it on my lips. </div>
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What were your beauty favorites this month?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-74225669436491829672016-11-30T13:41:00.002-08:002016-12-15T17:45:59.002-08:00 Holiday gift ideas for him 2016You may not guess this but writing a men's gift guide is one of my favorite things to blog about. There are so many interesting and even unique grooming things out there for men (one year I even posted a <a href="https://outlawsoaps.com/products/bacon-soap" target="_blank">bacon soap</a>), that there's really no need to resort to giving the usual tie or socks. Furthermore, it is easy to find something in every price range, from the drugstore discovery to the extravagant fragrance. Here's what I think are some terrific gift ideas for the men in your life - a few of these you might even like for yourself because so much has actually become unisex these days (maybe not the beard oil though lol). <br />
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<b><a href="https://www.mrporter.com/en-us/mens/aesop/london-grooming-kit/401628" target="_blank">Aesop London Grooming Kit ($75)</a></b> is perfect for the man who travels. The no-nonsense packaging and fresh-smelling botanical ingredients have a masculine bent although honestly I would love all this for myself. The kit includes travel sizes of: mouthwash, shampoo (he'll love the tea tree in it!), conditioner, body cleanser, body balm, and their famous parsley seed cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. And it all comes in a black travel case. What more could you ask for?<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.malinandgoetz.com/gifts/rum-holiday-set?keyword=rum+body+wash" target="_blank">Malin + Goetz Rum Holiday Set ($35)</a></b> is a lovely idea. Again, this no-nonsense packaging would appeal to a guy, and anything by this brand would make a great gift for him. I think the rum is particularly smart though. This kit includes a 8.5oz Rum Hand + Body Wash and a Dark Rum votive candle. Men do like candles you know. But if you prefer you could just get him the <a href="http://www.malinandgoetz.com/best-sellers/rum-body-wash?keyword=rum+body+wash" target="_blank">16oz Rum Body Wash</a> - it's awesome too.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=pacific%20shaving%20company&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all%20categories&lnk=snav_ta_pacific%20shaving%20company_s" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=pacific%20shaving%20company&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all%20categories&lnk=snav_ta_pacific%20shaving%20company_s" target="_blank">Pacific Shaving Company Caffienated Shaving Cream and After Shave ($4.49 each)</a></b> are something fun. And readily available at Target and some drugstores which is convenient. While it's not quite like drinking a big mug of coffee these do supposedly give a little kick to your morning routine. Also the caffeine actually provides a smoother shave and helps reduce redness. These smell minty, not like coffee, and as a bonus they are synthetic fragrance-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. Yay!</div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/foreo-issa-hybrid-sonic-toothbrush/4259923?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">FOREO 'ISSA' Hybrid Sonic Toothbrush ($199)</a></b> would be appreciated by the guy who is into high tech things. Or maybe someone with problematic tooth or gum issues. Either way it gets 5 out of 5 star reviews. Yes it's pricy but the sonic technology of this little machine gives a vigorous brushing to get rid of stubborn plaque while the silicone bristles massage the gums. Imagine how fantastic and how healthy his teeth will look! Be super sleek and order it in the black color.</div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/le-labo-oud-27-eau-de-parfum/4335748?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Le Labo 'Oud 27' Eau de Parfum ($175)</a></b> has the best masculine perfume packaging ever. This apothecary style bottle would look beyond cool sitting on your guy's dresser. Of course there is more to it than that. This niche brand makes unisex perfumes of the highest quality and concentration. I have chosen the 'Oud 27' because I think oud (smells of resinous wood and musky decadence) on a guy is the sexiest, but if your guy prefers something more fresh and cologne-like then go for their <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/le-labo-vetiver-46-eau-de-parfum/4335758?origin=category-personalizedsort" target="_blank">'Vetiver 46'</a>. Le Labo perfumes are for the hippest of hip.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRjprCc631aqtFYHOAGFW5Gy79_Bw8Z_zDvjTJgLz5LBocEz9-F2Vb7mz02sFxbWffvpN1U03Jz3b1ywW7hpfiUQHjCzmJUQrBuQIzUM8sohf5phhi7LvemZYpLsn-OvSFoL5tFzpgP0/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRjprCc631aqtFYHOAGFW5Gy79_Bw8Z_zDvjTJgLz5LBocEz9-F2Vb7mz02sFxbWffvpN1U03Jz3b1ywW7hpfiUQHjCzmJUQrBuQIzUM8sohf5phhi7LvemZYpLsn-OvSFoL5tFzpgP0/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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.<b><a href="https://www.mrporter.com/en-us/mens/penhaligons/bayolea-hair---body-wash--300ml/528267" target="_blank">Penhaligon's Bayolea Hair & Body Wash ($45)</a></b> is a treat for sure. Penhaligon's is a British perfumery brand that started out as a barber shop in 1870. So great history there. Now it is more of a niche brand, rather exclusive, so something like this body wash is sure to be treasured. It smells wonderfully masculine with Mandarin, Lemongrass, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Musk, and Moss. And of course its 2-in-1 purpose is also great for the efficiency expert.</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/84798470/beard-oil-conditioner-wild-man-the?source=aw&awc=6220_1480454146_c5367c5890101b9cd1ece404ce3f15e5&utm_source=affiliate_window&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=us_location_buyer&utm_content=78888" target="_blank">Wild Man Beard Conditioner ($19.95)</a></b> is a bit of a hidden gem, yet wildly popular to those in the know. It's an all natural grooming oil to condition and strengthen the beard and moisturize the skin around/beneath it. It gives a nice smooth look and a little shine. The Original formula uses essential oils that make it smell lightly of Virginian Cedarwood and cold-pressed lime, but it is also available in three other scents and an unscented version too. So many men are sporting beards these days, I think this would make a very appropriate gift.</div>
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For more (still relevant) gift ideas for him, check out last year's post: <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2015/12/great-holiday-gift-ideas-for-men-2015.html" target="_blank">great holiday gifts for men 2015</a></div>
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For beauty gift ideas for her, check out my new post: <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/holiday-gift-guide-2016-exquisite-sets.html" target="_blank">Holiday gift guide 2016: exquisite sets</a> and <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/12/sensational-stocking-stuffers-2016.html" target="_blank">sensational stocking stuffers 2016</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-67824724184300948212016-11-23T16:13:00.002-08:002016-12-15T17:44:57.628-08:00holiday gift guide 2016: exquisite sets<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm trying to dash this post off before I go make three pies, but I wanted to get it out before Black Friday for those of you who so indulge. Even if you don't start your Christmas shopping Friday you will want to check out my gift recommendations before too long because they are all limited edition holiday items and will be sure to sell out fast. Once gone, gone for good. It's a little weird for me having to post this before Thanksgiving even arrives but that's the way it is nowadays. There are currently a bazillion gift sets out there but I have selected the top; what I consider the most coveted and giftable items in a variety of price ranges. I'm crazy for every single one of these but I think you and your loved ones will be too. </div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/dior-total-eye-look-palette-for-eyes-brows-limited-edition/4470421?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Dior Total Eye Look Palette For Eyes & Brows ($62)</a> </b>makes for an elevated gift. It is a silky black zippered case with gold embroidery logo that contains 3 neutral eyeshadows, a brow powder, and a brow wax. This set can be had in two different palettes: a Glow Nude or a Smoky Matte. Both are exquisite. Dior makes the perfect gift because it's something most people would love to have but would be reluctant to buy for themselves. Why not do the splurging for them?</div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/diptyque-eau-de-parfum-discovery-set-limited-edition/4488908?origin=category-personalizedsort" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/diptyque-eau-de-parfum-discovery-set-limited-edition/4488908?origin=category-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Diptyque Eau De Parfum Discovery Set ($115)</a> </b> is a perfume lover's paradise. And actually I think it would make a terrific gift for someone who is just starting to explore perfumes, or who considers perfumes a rare treat. After all, who doesn't love Diptyque? This perfume set offers 5 .25oz atomizers including: Philosykos (fig), Tam Dao (citrus woody/amber), Oud Palao (incense, rose, and the Middle East), Do Son (tuberose), and L'Eau (rose and floral gardens). These are cultivated scents, some of them leaning toward unisex. Just lovely!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/tiny-temptations-chubette-tin-set-P94125778?skuId=1871052&publisher_id=255779&sub_publisher=g&is_mobile=&sub1=&sub_keyword=&sub_campaign=378477159&sub_placement=&gdevice=c&gclid=Cj0KEQiA08rBBRDUn4qproqwzYMBEiQAqpzns96TPq7V9ohixWkuEe8ZEZo7D-lgCsloBZyFv1Kbl50aAtur8P8HAQ&site=_search&om_mmc=ppc-GG_378477159_27759162879_pla-181500345879_1871052_97594802799_9032180_c&gmodel=&country_switch=&lang=en&sub_ad=97594802799" target="_blank">Clinique Tiny Temptations Set ($49.50)</a></b> is the cutest thing ever and has pretty pretty colors. In fact it is so cute that the full name is Tiny Temptations Chubettes Tin Set. There are 12 colors of Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm, and 8 colors of Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Color Balm. Wouldn't these be great to pop in a purse? It's true they are tiny (.03oz) but all lined up in their tin together they look quite impressive. These Chubby Sticks are ideal for someone who prefers a more sheer or dewy lip color.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/mask-it-all-over-set-P412076?keyword=SEPHORA%20COLLECTION%20Mask%20It!%20All%20Over%20Set%20P412076&skuId=1861103&_requestid=445713" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/mask-it-all-over-set-P412076?keyword=SEPHORA%20COLLECTION%20Mask%20It!%20All%20Over%20Set%20P412076&skuId=1861103&_requestid=445713" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Mask It All Over Set ($25)</a> </b>is a great gift for co-workers, nieces, and Secret Santas. The price is right and it's a lot of fun! Sephora makes some of my favorite reasonably-priced sheet masks and this a great way to explore (ie. buy it for yourself). The set includes: avocado face mask, lotus face mask, orchid eye mask, Argan hand mask, almond foot mask, charcoal nose strip. There is also a similar kit, the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/face-mask-set-P412075?keyword=SEPHORA%20COLLECTION%20Face%20Mask%20Set%20P412075&skuId=1861095&_requestid=635016" target="_blank">Face Mask Set</a>, of six Sephora face sheet masks also for $25. </div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/jo-malone-bathtime-collection/4486545" target="_blank">Jo Malone Bathtime Collection ($65)</a> </b>is my dream gift<b>, </b>and by that I mean it is at the top of my own Christmas wish list (any family members reading this please take note). The set is 3 decent sized 3.4oz bottles including: English Pear & Freesia Bath Oil, Nectarine Blossom & Honey Bubble Bath, and Peony & Blush Suede Shower Oil. Anything by Jo Malone makes for a luxe holiday gift and this one is particularly pampering and decadent.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Special-Edition-Most-Wished-For-Holiday-Palette-w-Gift-Box.product.A280492.html?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.qvc.com%2FIT-Cosmetics-Special-Edition-Most-Wished-For-Holiday-Palette-w-Gift-Box.product.A280492.html&cm_ven=CJ&cm_cat=4441350&cm_pla=11827882&cm_ite=2975314&ref=CJ1&cvosrc=affiliate.cj.4441350" target="_blank">IT Cosmetics Special Edition Most Wished For Holiday Palette (limited time price of $49.96)</a> </b>is perfection. The fold out kit includes 2 highlighters, a bronzer and a setting powder, 6 lip colors, 4 color-correcting concealers, and 18 eyeshadows. All of it is the same top quality as their regular permanent collection makeup, and product is actually quite sophisticated for a folding kit. The colors look slightly dull in this pic but click on the link to see the whole QVC video, it is actually quite stunning.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/whipped-argan-oil-7-piece-body-butter-collection-P412782?skuId=1842871&icid2=products%20grid:p412782" target="_blank">Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil 7 Piece Body Butter Collection ($45)</a> </b>isn't very snazzy looking but the scents and texture are <i>beyond</i>. I'm going to get it and break it up keeping my favorite smelling ones for myself and the others will go as gifts/stocking stuffers for others. The 7 2oz jars come in: vanilla honeysuckle, sweet butter cream, vanilla pine, sweet citrus, vanilla apricot, gingerbread vanilla, and unscented. Oh, and they are all super moisturizing - perfect for the cold dry winter!</div>
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So happy shopping to all of you and please be kind to the sales assistants who are working brutally hard at this time of year!</div>
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For more shopping ideas check out: <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/11/holiday-gift-ideas-for-him.html" target="_blank">Holiday gift ideas for him 2016</a> and <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/12/sensational-stocking-stuffers-2016.html" target="_blank">sensational stocking stuffers 2016</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-2710526591603672012016-11-20T12:16:00.001-08:002016-11-20T13:18:33.150-08:00Juvia's Place The Masquerade Mini Eyeshadow Palette & feeding your soul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt6mQMNl9Cddo7Mw8iXAj2t2CrZpIWRJGsNDijI6yLOXFjpA6R7u1BaB-0AuOgG6hajIWm1AwmLwrzKa3cbVAYB8sUTauYjOtuXjIWOqOhG4UoytUM5BBmBhvZ_az9hnN6DwLWH60Tkg/s1600/blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt6mQMNl9Cddo7Mw8iXAj2t2CrZpIWRJGsNDijI6yLOXFjpA6R7u1BaB-0AuOgG6hajIWm1AwmLwrzKa3cbVAYB8sUTauYjOtuXjIWOqOhG4UoytUM5BBmBhvZ_az9hnN6DwLWH60Tkg/s320/blog2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The </span><b style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.juviasplace.com/product-p/mas101a.htm" target="_blank">Juvia's Place The Masquerade Mini Eyeshadow Palette</a> </b><span style="text-align: left;">(currently on sale for $19.99)</span><b style="text-align: left;"> </b><span style="text-align: left;">contains the most glorious colors on earth, and their textures are just as special. It is 6" X 6", not actually mini at all, but it is a whole lot smaller than their original Masquerade Palette which is huge. The website reviews give it 5 out of 5 stars. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Here's why....</span></div>
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I love color. I live for color. It feeds my soul and makes this often arduous task of being a human being on earth totally worth it. I love colors found in nature and I love colors invented by man (or woman, as in this case). I have many eyeshadow palettes that sometimes I am too lazy to fully utilize, yet I am never too tired to swatch them on my arm and admire the colors as I go about my day. My collection of colors brings me joy. And yet I haven't been doing much about it lately.</div>
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The other day I was talking with a friend - the kind you can say anything to - and I was telling her how I felt I had lost my way. I didn't feel in touch with myself, my true self, and I didn't know what to do. I was lackluster and bored. She reminded me that I used to make fabulous large collages, intricate scrapbook/photo albums, and color with my Crayola crayons. She said I needed to create with my hands using color, shape, and texture. Now I am not an painter or illustrator at all* - I can't draw a straight line to save my life - but cut and paste I can do. And so I did. I went to Michael's craft store and explored for an hour. I bought some collaging supplies and came home and took down my boyfriend's picture of a 1950s drive-in and put up a big blank collage board and went to work. After gluing on about a dozen images I felt happy and energized, life didn't seem dull at all anymore. I had reconnected with my true self.</div>
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I think people just need to create, and some of us to create with our hands. You don't have to be an accomplished artist, just doing something for the fun of it can actually lead to joy and fulfillment. Personally I need to manipulate color and texture, shape and design. Many girls and women get that same satisfaction from makeup application, and if you are one of those people I highly recommend this Juvia's palette. It has phenomenal colors to experiment with. While I feel a little old to be wearing the vivid blues and purples out in public (in fact I only plan on wearing the earth tones), they are still fun to play with.</div>
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Just to wind up with a little bit more data on this indie brand palette: there are 7 cool shades and 9 warm shades, 5 matte shadows and 11 shimmer including one that is actually more metallic (Casablanca). The colors have awesome African names because the creator of Juvia's Place is Nigerian born. These colors are meant to accentuate darker skintones but pale girls will love them too. It's an artistic array. I find that the shimmer shades feel like deluxe velvet but in my a palette a couple of the matte shades feel a bit dry (Zobo). That said, they still apply and blend just fine. The quality is top notch and I wouldn't change a thing!</div>
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What types of creativity feed your soul?</div>
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* Nor am I a great photographer as you can tell from these swatch pics - although I also suspect my camera is crap.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-51175937715498319092016-11-14T13:43:00.000-08:002016-11-17T16:33:18.355-08:00Holiday sets you need to buy for yourself NOWThere are so many limited edition Holiday Sets and palettes out there right now and they are already starting to disappear for good so you'll want to shop ASAP. There was a "must have" Tatcha skincare set I was dying to blog about but alas it is already gone. I procrastinated and I should have known better. But sensational stuff still remains and I have refined my list to what I am am truly excited about. This post is what I think stands above the rest; so much so that these are items you will want to nab for yourself. In fact I curated it just for you!<br />
<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mac-nutcracker-sweet-nude-mini-lipstick-kit/4488019?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mac-nutcracker-sweet-nude-mini-lipstick-kit/4488019?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">MAC Nutcracker Sweet Nude Mini Lipstick Kit</a></b> is my favorite of the Nutcracker Collection. Everything in the collection is irresistibly packaged (whoever dreamt up these designs is a genius!) but this particular item has a really adorable reusable storage box. And the mini lipsticks themselves are beyond cute! The product colors are very wearable: colors that already exist in their permanent collection (ie. the infamous Whirl). So if you like something you can repurchase a full-size for everyday use and keep the precious Holiday lipstick as a collectible. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJgoOQ6I6DdVa9lpwTND8MB11-FSY9Lc4-NzUgX7RPHftjkXteSluiXSI6_npSIHiKYaKE1YcWi1Ny5zpl1dJy7fzTOQuBX87S6qxGPDUbvYg18LkI3m-WPmMQknuH2JfHKENlVdcCA0/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJgoOQ6I6DdVa9lpwTND8MB11-FSY9Lc4-NzUgX7RPHftjkXteSluiXSI6_npSIHiKYaKE1YcWi1Ny5zpl1dJy7fzTOQuBX87S6qxGPDUbvYg18LkI3m-WPmMQknuH2JfHKENlVdcCA0/s320/blog.jpg" width="208" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnKe5y9jgsumVR_b9QcigwEvgLlVmXlYwy7wrBNs1b4651NHu_5keelaK20A2tuoFj3M7ajUIbGNCkmGN8R7P49ksiyYsczybcoFJ3jLurSbV3kZSrBybWT3HOEobKFF08Gwxh5Xmdh4/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnKe5y9jgsumVR_b9QcigwEvgLlVmXlYwy7wrBNs1b4651NHu_5keelaK20A2tuoFj3M7ajUIbGNCkmGN8R7P49ksiyYsczybcoFJ3jLurSbV3kZSrBybWT3HOEobKFF08Gwxh5Xmdh4/s320/blog.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/perfume-sampler-P412396?skuId=1834746&icid2=products%20grid:p412396" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/perfume-sampler-P412396?skuId=1834746&icid2=products%20grid:p412396" target="_blank">Sephora Favorites Perfume Sampler</a></b> is a fantastic deal. You get 15 samples of desirable perfumes plus a voucher to redeem for a full size bottle of the one you like the best. You can get up to a $95 perfume depending on what brand you pick. In the past when they did this set the selection of perfumes was rather dated but this year everything is modern and even includes some new releases and niche brands. It's a terrific way to explore new scents and add to your collection!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/gritty-glow-magnetic-eye-face-palette-P413192?skuId=1859990&icid2=products%20grid:p413192" target="_blank">The Estee Edit Gritty & Glow Magnetic Eye And Face Palette</a></b> has to-die-for colors. Exclusive to Sephora, it is a two piece set: one palette of face colors (highlighters, bronze and blush toppers), and one palette of edgy sensual eyeshadow colors. It is called "magnetic" because the two palettes are meant to cling together back-to-back and form one usable palette. But of course you don't need to do that. Their glittery packaging contains shimmery velvety textures. I want to cover my whole body in those face colors they are so luscious! I would buy the set just for the face palette alone, and the price still wouldn't be all that bad.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/e-l-f-get-glowing-highlighting-set-0-86-oz/-/A-51248519" target="_blank">e.l.f. Get Glowing Highlighter Set</a></b> is a phenomenal bargain at only $10. It comes with their Illuminating Palette (a quad of powder highlighters with fairly subtle shine), Shimmering Facial Whip (a liquid/gel highlighter buildable to the extreme), and a highlighting brush. I love every single one of these products which are top quality not reflected by the price tag at all. I know I just listed a highlighting set but if you can't highlight at the Holidays, when can you? If you're not the highlighting type that's ok too, e.l.f. has all kinds of other great Holiday sets for only $10.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wtorlh_XeLNBy-HU0NQJzTQFnu5WhIJ9V0x_g74H75eHqEJdDYxzZ_jmDdeGjxLoAcNrY2nnvyUTDQiuBHoocMKucRCPmCAeLwS19feG9GusAb-0LiyRN85NA84VrNtGelEFCTLC6Ms/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wtorlh_XeLNBy-HU0NQJzTQFnu5WhIJ9V0x_g74H75eHqEJdDYxzZ_jmDdeGjxLoAcNrY2nnvyUTDQiuBHoocMKucRCPmCAeLwS19feG9GusAb-0LiyRN85NA84VrNtGelEFCTLC6Ms/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/peace-joy-fab-kit?productId=xlsImpprod15001039" target="_blank">First Aid Beauty Peace, Joy & Fab Kit</a></b> will see you through the dry Winter months. This very popular skincare line is designed for sensitive skin but many like it for its super hydrating benefits. The exclusive to Ulta kit includes travel size of their Ultra Repair Cream (for face and/or body), Ultra-Repair Hydra-Firm Sleeping Cream, Face Cleanser, Facial Radiance Pads, and Vitamin Hydrating mist. They are all best sellers and personally I cannot live without those exfoliating Radiance Pads - they are a staple for me.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/everlasting-mini-liquid-lipstick-set-P412344?skuId=1848449&icid2=products%20grid:p412344" target="_blank">Kat Von D Everlasting Mini Liquid Lipstick Set</a></b> contains some of her top selling colors like L.U.V. and Sante Sangre plus a couple new releases. Her formula of liquid lipstick is one of the best around so this is a great opportunity to try it out. It feels less drying than many of its kind. The kit (exclusive to Sephora) includes a whacky navy color but also some mauves and nudes and brights and of course a classic red. Go ahead, experiment!</div>
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Did you like anything here? Find a favorite and go get 'em! Now!</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-89361084729938559722016-11-10T15:18:00.000-08:002016-11-10T20:53:56.643-08:00fall empties 2016As I was writing this empties post I realized that I would repurchase most of these products, which made me very happy. No money wasted! It's always a crap shoot trying things for the first time, and because the majority of these products were first-timers for me that's extra great. It is also strangely satisfying to use stuff up, especially when I need to make room for all the goodies I just bought in Sephora's VIB sale (more on that later). Ouch! So out with the old - in with the new. It's karmic, right? <br />
Here's a short little list of things that ended up in my recycle bin over the last few months. And as always with my empties I keep it brief.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.drugstore.com/herbal-essences-honey-i-smell-good-body-wash/qxp508580?catid=184087" target="_blank">Herbal Essences Honey I Smell Good Body Wash</a> </b>has a dorky name but it claims to be natural and has a wonderful fruity/honey smell. It doesn't dry me out or irritate my skin. It's fun and totally worth the money - it lasted me for ages. I am dying to try the other smells in the line next.<br />
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<i>repurchase?</i> Yes, but will try a new scent.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3E4FO2SFSMhk17BFkue2Uhwo2Q9a5RZwgs3rZlzBDOo_E4CEcndrE8X8EmWITB-bdJ-8FSHcrFEi4GVksg_IDrQf_EqsraBCpcjnvA05JfB_Coqdh_p6dfWXg1w2NXFtQEO_2Di1AM4/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3E4FO2SFSMhk17BFkue2Uhwo2Q9a5RZwgs3rZlzBDOo_E4CEcndrE8X8EmWITB-bdJ-8FSHcrFEi4GVksg_IDrQf_EqsraBCpcjnvA05JfB_Coqdh_p6dfWXg1w2NXFtQEO_2Di1AM4/s1600/blog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.yankeecandle.com/product/macintosh/_/R-115436" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.yankeecandle.com/product/macintosh/_/R-115436" target="_blank"><b>Yankee Candle </b><b>Large Jar </b><b>in Macintosh</b></a> is a must because the smell of apples is quintessential Autumn. I had half of this candle left over from last Fall and finished it up before the season had fully gotten underway this year. It really truly smells like a pungent fresh apple - not sweet like a bakery apple. I don't often buy Yankee Candles but this is delightful.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> For sure.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3_jwS5w6RURTHM_my5IAvmBVdITU_CY6MAclTrPuPd8bgtp1Ha2VW_VPnd6lFDwTfadgRE2vT5LoSYE-HoW76Homofi8CTyJnfSYtI19kbHUV3gx_f_d-5LCnHYe7cUMi2IT5gYAGfM/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3_jwS5w6RURTHM_my5IAvmBVdITU_CY6MAclTrPuPd8bgtp1Ha2VW_VPnd6lFDwTfadgRE2vT5LoSYE-HoW76Homofi8CTyJnfSYtI19kbHUV3gx_f_d-5LCnHYe7cUMi2IT5gYAGfM/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ultimate-lash-icon-volumizing-mascara?productId=xlsImpprod13641117#" target="_blank">Fiona Styles Ultimate Lash Icon Volumizing Mascara</a></b> was best several weeks in when the consistency got a little thicker. It wasn't bad at first either, just more volumizing later. In fact it was excellent at the very end of its life. I had fun trying out this relatively new brand at Ulta and I felt like I got what I paid for. It was a medium priced mascara and it gave medium satisfaction.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> No, there is better, and more, mascara to try out there.</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/l'oreal-paris-hair-expertise-evercreme-nourishing-shampoo/ID=prod6098291-product" target="_blank">L'Oreal EverCreme Nourishing Shampoo </a></b>is great because it is sulfate-free. And for me it is the perfect amount of hydrating, which is quite a lot/just enough without weighing my hair down. It smells luscious without being too perfumey and I felt like it was gentle on my color-treated hair.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Yup!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWeW28zXt0TWkBnaPWZ2gvEpMO6iQHB_kamCOJC9mmNtFs7FGOvnZ6FTdRKhyphenhyphenTAzRRrjB2SqNNo0VcI0g-Pu3QGvysQS-obtEhReEqUURlh3nv9n0cwXrTEgchbRN2x-KXBeo1iIuycQ/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWeW28zXt0TWkBnaPWZ2gvEpMO6iQHB_kamCOJC9mmNtFs7FGOvnZ6FTdRKhyphenhyphenTAzRRrjB2SqNNo0VcI0g-Pu3QGvysQS-obtEhReEqUURlh3nv9n0cwXrTEgchbRN2x-KXBeo1iIuycQ/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/cerave-hydrating-cleanser-normal-to-dry/ID=prod6091730-product" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/cerave-hydrating-cleanser-normal-to-dry/ID=prod6091730-product" target="_blank">Cerave Hydrating Cleanser, Normal To Dry </a></b>is a staple for me. I buy the big jar at the drugstore and it is still inexpensive. Perfect for my very dry sensitive skin, I use it alone or mix it in with more hardcore exfoliating cleansers to soften them up a bit. It's a classic.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Definitely!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5b1_wUT98446B3h5-mrTzDX0d9Vt3y5rwZOKNYopxDc1yuiiS0ylDibnqkL05Uxtcoaf0umCLrrocKIYY52zX2LV8fmcHqtidRwJfBi7ec73O9N-sVE69waHQJnTkke3ZEfZPzkHObs/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5b1_wUT98446B3h5-mrTzDX0d9Vt3y5rwZOKNYopxDc1yuiiS0ylDibnqkL05Uxtcoaf0umCLrrocKIYY52zX2LV8fmcHqtidRwJfBi7ec73O9N-sVE69waHQJnTkke3ZEfZPzkHObs/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=99199296&cm_vc=200" target="_blank">(2) Bath And Body Works 3 Wick Candle in Sweater Weather</a></b> truly smells like a cozy wooly sweater worn on a crisp Fall day. Would I rather be burning Dyptique and Jo Malone all the time? Sure, but this particular BBW scent is a favorite of mine as well. I've gone through 2 already this year and also listed in it my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/10/october-beauty-favorites-2016.html" target="_blank">October beauty favorites</a>!</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Yes, every Fall.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA3Mn7B-YHbr12iAARk4LcJZO2VGRU4aUPXyl0WWTsHG4v5OSBWWkaZhlGKStEI-c8PctpPttzyteNXF7lKCfjg3J-BbkAqHC79SKB27SN1JayCgrCEoeaYspwXEFXlxYTGooFtfnow50/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA3Mn7B-YHbr12iAARk4LcJZO2VGRU4aUPXyl0WWTsHG4v5OSBWWkaZhlGKStEI-c8PctpPttzyteNXF7lKCfjg3J-BbkAqHC79SKB27SN1JayCgrCEoeaYspwXEFXlxYTGooFtfnow50/s1600/blog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/milani-moisture-lock-coconut-oil-infused-lip-treatment/ID=prod6304347-product" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(2) Milani Moisture Lock Coconut Oil Infused Lip Treatment in Healing Lemon Honey and Conditioning Grapeseed</a><b> </b>are something I am always buying for others as well as myself. There are eight different conditioning formulas that work better than most regular lip balms. I think the Healing Lemon Honey one works the best.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Yes, but I'll just stick with the Lemon Honey one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOnDCZYNAtKhWIKsHmohMgPwW3Tzcv4Je5ju1z336LE96Lo3CI8OEeSS2aZkZTBVJkxCowoMvfoMav3CidDTeFm2QXylO27IheiHYQavq3q4oyMV5WS55P8LyIulImXV47mgfF0hD_5A/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOnDCZYNAtKhWIKsHmohMgPwW3Tzcv4Je5ju1z336LE96Lo3CI8OEeSS2aZkZTBVJkxCowoMvfoMav3CidDTeFm2QXylO27IheiHYQavq3q4oyMV5WS55P8LyIulImXV47mgfF0hD_5A/s400/blog.jpg" width="351" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kiehls-since-1851-amino-acid-shampoo/2929864?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo</a></b> is very pleasant. I got the conditioner too (which I didn't like as much) but I always run out of a brand's shampoo before I do their conditioner. I found this shampoo to be gentle and lightly hydrating but maybe not quite as much as I would like. I love the concept behind this though.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> No, I'd rather try new things.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUQ7V5AEUmKumbLCkJ08TXdacRb1-P0EWhUGPTZXmhXHvhDizdWgQPcNZxUnYa9LENV_dUtBC-4qRIlxzoKmLpOHMNONfgIbSmOJqSoOQSlbMCN64zpsGgeiku-kck8OYWRhCZF5Gz84/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUQ7V5AEUmKumbLCkJ08TXdacRb1-P0EWhUGPTZXmhXHvhDizdWgQPcNZxUnYa9LENV_dUtBC-4qRIlxzoKmLpOHMNONfgIbSmOJqSoOQSlbMCN64zpsGgeiku-kck8OYWRhCZF5Gz84/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mac-prep-prime-fix-finishing-mist/3800935?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Finishing Mist</a></b> settles my makeup, softens and takes away any cakeyness or powderyness. This was the first time I had tried it and I'm not 100% convinced it makes my makeup last any longer, but it sure makes it look better. Plus it smells fantastic and is quite refreshing.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Yes, I'm addicted</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgEJAvdjDlObNrS2RECoPtoh9fzJdZoZUEGPPG2IUe0TuZndKxHSEVPQMBs5FdpRk_iYepHGskcq0UX4wa4IQ1q4BFnDdVCWCy33w0dGkeTOquMyuL_CvmcR3-gGE1jqmAlfXNy58-Do/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgEJAvdjDlObNrS2RECoPtoh9fzJdZoZUEGPPG2IUe0TuZndKxHSEVPQMBs5FdpRk_iYepHGskcq0UX4wa4IQ1q4BFnDdVCWCy33w0dGkeTOquMyuL_CvmcR3-gGE1jqmAlfXNy58-Do/s400/blog.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/sublime-defense-ultra-lightweight-uv-defense-fluid-spf-50-P311143?skuId=1420223&icid2=products%20grid:p311143" target="_blank">Algenist SUBLIME DEFENSE Ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid SPF 50</a></b> has been a favorite sunscreen for years. I still try other brands from time to time but I always come back to this. The smell isn't great but the texture is, and it doesn't annoy my sensitive reactive skin. I like that it is mostly mineral sunscreen but has the extra coverage of one chemical sunscreen ingredient.</div>
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<i>repurchase?</i> Probably, but I just bought a <a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/beauty/skin-care/sun-tanning/la-roche-posay-anthelios-50-mineral-ultra-light-sunscreen-fluid-2-oz-prodid-1130569" target="_blank">La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid</a> to try out first. I think it will be similar but more cost effective.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBYXE6ZGZbe253tuA5tpAxvL_TG-i_GhEQ7M63WKO9Oh52RhiRbLPmHnm8sW7dF7S5Z8XSSZBDT58SfPiwlRQrnaxhASPQMIcM__zme_XyzJsxAuIqa8XQRapoitK7iA9_WhElI_ydFw/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBYXE6ZGZbe253tuA5tpAxvL_TG-i_GhEQ7M63WKO9Oh52RhiRbLPmHnm8sW7dF7S5Z8XSSZBDT58SfPiwlRQrnaxhASPQMIcM__zme_XyzJsxAuIqa8XQRapoitK7iA9_WhElI_ydFw/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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What favorites or hate-its did you burn through this month?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-74113330555188191392016-11-06T14:21:00.003-08:002016-11-06T20:59:10.275-08:00the 5 best drugstore concealersI have taken to collecting concealers and many of the best ones I own are from the drugstore. I am very fussy about my concealers too because my under eye area is quite dry with serious bags and dark circles. A good eye cream is key, but I believe it is meant to go hand-in-hand with a good concealer. Thus all of the concealers listed below do not crease and are always flattering. They all work excellently under my adverse conditions so I'm sure they would be great on you. Interestingly enough, 4 out of 5 of them are from Maybelline. I'm not sure if that is a coincidence or if Maybelline is just that awesome, but I picked my top 5 drugstore concealers objectively and that is how it turned out. Here is my two cents.....<br />
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I am currently grooving on the <b><a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/beauty/makeup/face/maybelline-face-studio-master-conceal-prodid-1016189?skuId=982640&searchType=3&typeAheadTerm=Maybelline+Face+Studio+Master+Conceal" target="_blank">Maybelline Face Studio Master Conceal</a></b>. It is advertised as full coverage however on me with my super dark circles it really only seems to be medium coverage. But that's ok because what I love about it is how smooth and hydrated it makes my under eye area look. It makes me appear happier and more awake. It is a moist, thickish cream in a squeeze tube applicator so you can't conveniently apply it directly to the eye, but when you do apply it with a brush or finger tip it blends in super easy. It'd also work great on spots and blemishes on your face.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyWRQtyPhDQmuj1fdzRmiwHELvlnWWV33e1DabrbnrzlbcK1g0i2VbqfQNAtC3bOAY2MNEKobdjTXtB03n12JAOiIclR4a3iTL42uUussR9YoMsZB97snldmsDUUHXQMpgBU7aA4Lc_Y/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyWRQtyPhDQmuj1fdzRmiwHELvlnWWV33e1DabrbnrzlbcK1g0i2VbqfQNAtC3bOAY2MNEKobdjTXtB03n12JAOiIclR4a3iTL42uUussR9YoMsZB97snldmsDUUHXQMpgBU7aA4Lc_Y/s320/blog.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/search/results.jsp?Ntt=Maybelline%20SuperStay%20Better%20Skin%20Concealer%20Light" target="_blank">Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin</a></b><span style="text-align: left;"> is my front runner. It has the lazy girl's friend doe foot applicator to apply the concealer directly onto the skin. And out of all of these concealers I'm talking about today it gives the most coverage. The consistency is a little bit thick and on the dryish side but it never makes my under eyes look crepey or dehydrated. I think it'd be the right texture to use on your face as well. I consider it a full coverage concealer, though not quite as hardcore as some high end ones like </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/lock-it-concealer-creme-P409985?keyword=KAT%20VON%20D%20Lock-It%20Concealer%20Cr%C3%A8me%20P409985&skuId=1810787&_requestid=672697" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Creme</a><span style="text-align: left;"> or the </span><a href="http://www.ulta.com/double-duty-beauty-shape-tape-contour-concealer?productId=xlsImpprod14251035" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Tarte Shape Tape</a><span style="text-align: left;">. Still, I adore it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5vZWUzTxYve0n1lVUKitlSmnQYpq-Q2KRL45-867G6l9tOFNd9Ev4KB3zoRKECtJLVsncI0PUjJZ22886kVXetBlJKHwekAmfKk-RUtzYfTWSoKrjcxvgm-WT-waZz_ldhmKprQnNKs/s1600/blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5vZWUzTxYve0n1lVUKitlSmnQYpq-Q2KRL45-867G6l9tOFNd9Ev4KB3zoRKECtJLVsncI0PUjJZ22886kVXetBlJKHwekAmfKk-RUtzYfTWSoKrjcxvgm-WT-waZz_ldhmKprQnNKs/s320/blog1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/search/results.jsp?Ntt=Almay%20Age%20Essentials%20Concealer%20Light%2FMedium" target="_blank">Almay Age Essentials Concealer</a></b><span style="text-align: left;"> is the best stick concealer I have come across because unlike many of its kind, this is not cakey in the least. It is actually a great concealer for people of any age. That said, it has dimethicone for smoothing, hyaluronic acid for plumping wrinkles, and sunscreen for preventing aging (although truthfully not enough to really protect). I love it because it is super simple to apply and blends in like a dream. The coverage is medium, not quite enough for really dark circles, but I love it for its swipe-and-go ease. It has become a staple in my makeup collection.</span></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/maybelline-fit-me!-concealer/ID=prod6054968-product" target="_blank">Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer </a></b>is everybody's favorite. It has light to medium coverage and is as creamy and blendable as can be. It is a thinnish consistency that comes in a tube with a doe foot applicator. I like to layer it underneath a heavier concealer to give the optimum and smoothest coverage possible. It is something that everybody needs to try at least once in their life.</div>
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<b>Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer Neutralizer</b> is owned by every single beauty maven on you tube. It is what you quickly swipe on, on the days you aren't feeling like wearing much makeup. Definitely light coverage, it still looks great and acts as an eye brightener and highlighter and de-puffer. Highlighting and brightening are where its strength lies. It comes as a liquid in a big tube with a sponge top applicator that is addictive to use. </div>
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What drugstore concealer do you think is the best? Extra points if it's NOT Maybelline!</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-7043349411835004782016-11-03T11:44:00.000-07:002016-11-03T20:37:03.101-07:00top recommendations for Sephora VIB saleIt's that time of year again! The Sephora 20% off VIB sale starts tomorrow! If you are a VIB Rouge member your sale is from November 4-7, and if you are a regular VIB member your sale is from November 11-14. If you are not a rewards (VIB) member there is no sale for you - so what are you waiting for go sign up. <br />
There are so many goodies to buy - everything from the frivolous to the practical. Here are my suggestions on the best ways to get not only what you need but what you want, and the optimum way to save in the process. I've got my shopping cart filled and ready to go - how bout you?<br />
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MAKEUP BRUSHES: All brands of makeup brushes at Sephora are on the pricey side but they are also top quality and will last ages so are a good investment. The <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=sephora%20brushes&mode=all&currentPage=2" target="_blank">Sephora Collection</a> has a varied selection, <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=urban%20decay%20brushes&mode=all" target="_blank">Urban Decay</a> just came out with a new luxurious line of brushes, and my personal fave and must-have is the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/mr-right-perfect-powder-brush-P403804?keyword=TOO%20FACED%20Mr.%20Right%20-%20The%20Perfect%20Powder%20Brush%20P403804&skuId=1777705&_requestid=271118" target="_blank">Too Faced Mr. Right - The Perfect Powder Brush.</a> </b>It is the perfect shape, has multiple uses and is super duper soft.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKQWU-4LPZw6-MpvyAlvr2tteQlDA1NhS8jOQfOFMLMkLFHUDt1Na-cPY2GLiADOx2uRO1mJEz5SgUS4OlydW5zyBekly1UQi0ZW9MVDGrW6m2pCz8UVv0-6alS3VsbGUqhX9ryfiUoY/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKQWU-4LPZw6-MpvyAlvr2tteQlDA1NhS8jOQfOFMLMkLFHUDt1Na-cPY2GLiADOx2uRO1mJEz5SgUS4OlydW5zyBekly1UQi0ZW9MVDGrW6m2pCz8UVv0-6alS3VsbGUqhX9ryfiUoY/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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HIGH END FOUNDATIONS: I am a huge fan of drugstore foundations but everyone also needs a high end one to complete their foundation wardrobe. It's about quality and texture and technology as much as it is the status of the name. For example the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/diorskin-airflash-spray-foundation-P104914?keyword=DIOR%20Diorskin%20Airflash%20Spray%20Foundation%20P104914&skuId=978817&_requestid=283867" target="_blank">Dior Airflash Spray Foundation</a> is expensive but everyone who has ever used it has fallen in love. I am considering the currently hugely trendy <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/vanish-seamless-finish-foundation-stick-P410532?keyword=HOURGLASS%20Vanish%20Seamless%20Finish%20Foundation%20Stick%20P410532&skuId=1827344&_requestid=284730" target="_blank">Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick</a></b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX753biy1v8wr8ZKGlFs88Ks6g0Rz6L0JDDA2zxaok4LNvNopd_KKtBrXPHf4DprOB_CSBhVTsxfAIr_0sMpgcz8RMC3Bxs-fhR3X002bHnYFgURFqoOgKNLJp7zBqIjLfC6QqUZQ7arU/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX753biy1v8wr8ZKGlFs88Ks6g0Rz6L0JDDA2zxaok4LNvNopd_KKtBrXPHf4DprOB_CSBhVTsxfAIr_0sMpgcz8RMC3Bxs-fhR3X002bHnYFgURFqoOgKNLJp7zBqIjLfC6QqUZQ7arU/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR OTHERS: There are going to be all kinds of special Holiday sets that make for terrific gifts so now is the time to do some of your shopping for others. The <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sephora-favorites?searchTerm=sephora%20favorites&products=all" target="_blank">Sephora Favorites</a> sets are always extremely popular but I am a sucker for the festive <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=PHILOSOPHY%20HOLIDAY&mode=all" target="_blank">Philosophy Holiday Sets</a></b>. If you know someone who loves things that smell yummy, these are the way to go.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-gcefFcVM7edgjGD4oXSFMWOgXmcRbPAKzK9GHt2GR3i3JrUhFUiYy5Ch0ONinyCgDwL8di-aLYwkZerCe2bE7EgSxps621q8bWbJjxwgS5HfIlqLU7cQxrrNJlbjHL08J4SLzDfOXE/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-gcefFcVM7edgjGD4oXSFMWOgXmcRbPAKzK9GHt2GR3i3JrUhFUiYy5Ch0ONinyCgDwL8di-aLYwkZerCe2bE7EgSxps621q8bWbJjxwgS5HfIlqLU7cQxrrNJlbjHL08J4SLzDfOXE/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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PERFUME: Sephora now carries a lot of niche brands so this is your opportunity to try something uber cool and unique. Many of them are only available online but I saw some rollerballs of <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=juliette%20has%20a%20gun&mode=all" target="_blank">Juliette Has A Gun</a> in my local Sephora the other day. <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=rollerball%20perfume&mode=all" target="_blank">Rollerballs</a> are an excellent, low-commitment way to check out something new, but if you already know what you like go ahead and buy the LARGE size bottle. The just-released <a href="http://www.sephora.com/n5-l-eau-P412038?skuId=1837624&icid2=chanel_lp_whats_new_carousel:p412038" target="_blank"><b>Chanel No 5 L'Eau</b></a> is fast achieving cult status.</div>
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STOCKPILE BASIC SUPPLIES: Buy in bulk the little things that keep your beauty routine running. You know, the boring stuff that you actually can't function without. I'm talking about things like face wipes, nail maintenance stuff, makeup sponges (Beauty Blender), cotton pads, eye makeup remover, and my latest discovery the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/solid-clean-solid-brush-cleaner-P389120?skuId=1624949&icid2=products%20grid:p389120" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Solid Clean: Solid Brush Cleaner</a></b>. It's a cheaper dupe for the fabulous Beauty Blender solid cleanser. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVmb3e4xqaLGvwUNSS2IT_UwOaxZl-Zi5noefye9eYsRQUaLkHZLT7ozTvSMSTxyZQfCkGj5WCGh2_TtGn7ju8b82E2icoUmRa_ANDV_y7mmE4a8RFHFBk131BW_EE7JAOnQM3Lq5lck/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVmb3e4xqaLGvwUNSS2IT_UwOaxZl-Zi5noefye9eYsRQUaLkHZLT7ozTvSMSTxyZQfCkGj5WCGh2_TtGn7ju8b82E2icoUmRa_ANDV_y7mmE4a8RFHFBk131BW_EE7JAOnQM3Lq5lck/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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EXPERIMENT WITH CONTOUR: You don't have to go hardcore with it, but why not use this sale to try your hand at a little <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?node=4345524&sortBy=P_BEST_SELLING%3A1%3A%3AP_RATING%3A1%3A%3AP_PROD_NAME%3A0%3A%3AP_DEFAULT_SKU%3A1&searchTerm=contour%20palette&keyword=contour%20palette&mode=all" target="_blank">contour and highlighting</a>? Granted, there are some serious contouring kits out there (ie. the excellent <a href="http://www.sephora.com/shade-light-contour-palette-P392129?keyword=KAT%20VON%20D%20Shade%20%2B%20Light%20Contour%20Palette%20P392129&skuId=1654110&_requestid=314565" target="_blank">Kat Von D Shade And Light Contour Palette</a>) but I have my eye on the gorgeous <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/pro-sculpting-face-palette-P404776?skuId=1779784&icid2=products%20grid:p404776" target="_blank">Makeup Forever Pro Sculpting Face Palette</a></b> of gentle creamy products. In fact I am dying for it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg3wIiyElq_qBsVG-s19HxpDOV9rhAsEdx6A0ReBPA8F1ztc8dqldld-ZyjyLQZBgmbNwclMQH-QS8FdYhGvMFBU5ZbguuNcvLOZ1D9sKwUkK9Zs4Z9xEfYXXzMO_OA9ny4SPJ60yOj0/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg3wIiyElq_qBsVG-s19HxpDOV9rhAsEdx6A0ReBPA8F1ztc8dqldld-ZyjyLQZBgmbNwclMQH-QS8FdYhGvMFBU5ZbguuNcvLOZ1D9sKwUkK9Zs4Z9xEfYXXzMO_OA9ny4SPJ60yOj0/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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SKINCARE: Skincare always costs a lot so this sale is the way to go. Plus it's practical. Everyone needs a moisturizer, cleanser, and even exfoliator. I just discovered and am going to buy this amazing night cream <a href="http://www.sephora.com/smart-night-custom-repair-moisturizer-very-dry-to-dry-P403455?skuId=1718295" target="_blank">Clinique Smart Night Custom-Repair Moisturizer</a>, and am also taking this opportunity to try out some new face sheet masks. I have been hearing about the astounding results of the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/facial-treatment-mask-P375852?skuId=1702216" target="_blank">SK-II Facial Treatment Mask</a></b> so I put the single application in my shopping cart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg579LjYnTzS7R4r8OkEhaX9uzaz9-kJJp0vnzCrsxzSiqNCtxbmBwqepTRil0U4yI_j0KcFblp812tgw9dZfqMngFhQWVQDg7bVKtmrNxq3C8Y0A0_BPGeWWh5mHZGJlPK3PDOPE-C2S4/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg579LjYnTzS7R4r8OkEhaX9uzaz9-kJJp0vnzCrsxzSiqNCtxbmBwqepTRil0U4yI_j0KcFblp812tgw9dZfqMngFhQWVQDg7bVKtmrNxq3C8Y0A0_BPGeWWh5mHZGJlPK3PDOPE-C2S4/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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SALE ITEMS: And last but not least, Sephora has added even more special <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/saleResults.jsp?keyword=Sale&topNav=true" target="_blank">sale items</a></b> for the VIB sale. Save two times! It is the best way to get a bargain and they've got some really fun stuff too, like colorful eyeshadow palettes such as the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/electric-pressed-pigment-palette-P385671?skuId=1593268&icid2=products%20grid:p385671" target="_blank">Urban Decay Electric Pressed Pigment Palette</a></b>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZV98Nf7riv65nhcRjzGVxD31gMfp0PEC1-XRLbMPHnENVk1bjDpt74JxanZFYqB5_xh7bmW2KKClkie12bhyphenhyphenIArRJtTii1tVdCUlSoKEB60kle05v2JdUyuV4HgbYBkc69fa0bT43lrk/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZV98Nf7riv65nhcRjzGVxD31gMfp0PEC1-XRLbMPHnENVk1bjDpt74JxanZFYqB5_xh7bmW2KKClkie12bhyphenhyphenIArRJtTii1tVdCUlSoKEB60kle05v2JdUyuV4HgbYBkc69fa0bT43lrk/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-9258329511485721762016-10-29T12:45:00.001-07:002016-11-17T16:28:59.788-08:00October beauty favorites 2016This month's beauty faves are mostly going to be Fall-centric. It hasn't been at all cold here yet but I am desperately trying to get in the mood. I put up all my Autumn/Halloween house and yard decor on October 2nd and have been trying to ignore the fact that it seems out of place in the 80 degree weather. But I shouldn't complain, I know some people have already gotten snow. That's the other end of the spectrum that I don't prefer. But this is silly talking about the weather, let's get on to something much more interesting ie. beauty products. Here is what I have been most excited about lately.....<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/showergels-P237205?skuId=1297118&icid2=products%20grid:p237205" target="_blank">Korres Shower Gel in Fig</a></b> feels like you are doing something special for yourself. You could even say it gives a decadent shower experience. The clear gel is gentle and non-drying but it is the scent that is heavenly. It is a pure clear true fig; sharp and dusky and green, not sweet in the least. I bought this shower gel as soon as the Fall Equinox hit because it is the perfect fragrance for Winter and Fall, and I have been loving it ever since.<br />
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<b style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/rockateur-box-o-powder-blush-P379987?skuId=1539253&icid2=products%20grid:p379987" target="_blank">Benefit Rockateur Box O' Powder Blush</a></b><span style="text-align: left;"> became a favorite accidentally. I happen to keep it in a spot that is really easy to reach for and so whenever I feel lazy or in a rush that is the blush I grab by default. But then I started noticing that it always, no matter what, looks perfect on. It goes with whatever look I have going and it never fails to be flattering. These days I reach for it intentionally. The color is a pinky rose with just the barest hint of neutral gold illumination in it. It doesn't show up shiny on my cheeks, rather it gives a lit-from-within impression. It's a winner!</span></div>
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<b><a href="https://shop.safeway.com/ecom/shop-by-aisle/Personal-Care-Health/Skin-Care/Cotton-Balls-Swabs#state-ui-richInfo_960127096" target="_blank">Safeway Signature Care Oval Cotton Pads</a></b> were a revelation to me. So large and soft, they feel like total luxury on my skin. And I think they do a more thorough job of applying my toner or micellar water. I can't (or choose not to) afford the $9 Shiseido cotton pads so these are the next best thing. If you live near a Safeway grocery store I highly recommend you grab some. I am truly obsessed.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=99199296&cp=12586994.12936192.4147333" target="_blank">Bath And Body Works 3-Wick Candle in Sweater Weather</a></b> is another Fall favorite of mine. I had never set foot in a Bath And Body Works store until last year when raving reviews on YouTube drove me in to check out the <a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=108834716&cm_vc=200" target="_blank">Marshmallow Fireside</a> candle. Until that point I had been spending a fortune on luxury candles but was delighted to discover these cheapies (if you buy them on sale even better - they are always on sale). They are fun and fabulous and the Sweater Weather scent totally smells like a cozy sweater worn on a brisk Fall day. The notes are fresh sage, juniper berry, aromatic eucalyptus, and fresh woods. I don't get any eucalyptus from it at all, mostly just the woodsy vibe. Sweater Weather is on sale right now and I am going to stockpile.</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/beauty/makeup/face/l-oreal-true-match-lumi-cushion-foundation-prodid-1016092" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/beauty/makeup/face/l-oreal-true-match-lumi-cushion-foundation-prodid-1016092" target="_blank">L'Oreal True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation</a></b> will make your skin smooth and glowy. Even dewy. It's fairly light coverage but super easy to swipe on with its little sponge and go. I unfortunately bought it in a shade or two too light and so was just letting it sit in my drawer. But then I got some <a href="http://www.sephora.com/dew-hoola-soft-matte-liquid-bronzer-P404613?skuId=1790419&icid2=products%20grid:p404613" target="_blank">Benefit Dew The Hulu Soft Matte Liquid Bronzer</a> in my Sephora Play! box and now I add that on top of the Lumi application. I love how the foundation looks so much I really should go out and buy another one in the correct shade. It's on the expensive side for a drugstore foundation, but really rather cheap for something I am crazy about.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/clean-on-me-creamy-clarifying-shower-gel?productId=xlsImpprod12831217" target="_blank">Soap And Glory Clean On Me Creamy Clarifying Shower Gel</a></b> makes the perfect shave cream. That's why I'm listing another shower gel as a favorite - because I actually just use it as my shave cream. Of course you could use it as a regular shower gel; the super silky texture makes it perfect for either one. I get the ultimate close smooth shave out of it but it is the scent that is truly incredible. Everyone agrees! It's unique and a little hard to describe but I'd say its a floral and definitely some significant amber. It smells like a really pretty well-blended perfume (but not too strong). Best of all is the pump which makes it the easiest to use shave cream ever.</div>
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<a href="http://min.com/collections/nippon-kodo/products/nippon-kodo-ka-fuh-daphne-incense" target="_blank"><b>Nippon Kodo Ka-fuh Daphne Incense</b></a> is the lovely scent of pink cherry blossoms. Maybe even drying after a refreshing rain shower (for us here in Northern California rain is synonymous with Fall and Winter). I start my morning by lighting up these incense while I enjoy my first cup of coffee, - it feels spiritual and calming. They are a very pretty delicate floral with the smoky incense aspect that is perfect for these cooler months. Nippon Kodu is a premier brand of Japanese incense - you can't not like them.<br />
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What were your favorites, beauty or otherwise, this month?<br />
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-2569171761927529112016-10-24T13:12:00.002-07:002016-11-17T16:27:34.072-08:00must-have chemical exfoliatorsUsing a Alpha Hydroxy Acid or Beta Hydroxy Acid are my preferred ways to exfoliate. Some scrubs can be ok but I believe that chemical exfoliation is a better way to go. I think AHAs and BHAs work more effectively and if you don't leave them on too long, are actually gentler on the skin (scrubs can possibly pull and tear). <br />
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To give a quick chemical exfoliation lesson, some AHAs are glycolic acids from fruits or sugars, lactic acid from milk, and malic acid from apples. These give excellent surface exfoliation by eating away and dissolving dead skin cells. BHAs are salicylic acids and penetrate the pores to clean out dirt and oil; they are perfect for oily, congested, acneic skin. Sorry for all the boring details but knowing all this can help you choose which product is right for you.<br />
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That said, there are a variety of ways to use your chemical exfoliants. In toner form they are gentle and left on the skin. In serum form they are highly concentrated and often mixed with other beneficial ingredients to form a cocktail that you leave on. And masks are a terrific way to clean things out once or twice a week. These you definitely wash off. And very important: if you are using these or any exfoliation regularly you MUST MUST MUST use sunscreeen!<br />
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So according to category, here is what I recommend:<br />
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TONERS<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-glow-tonic-3-4-fl-oz/-/A-17408487#sn-17408487" target="_blank">Pixi By Petra Glow Tonic</a></b> has cult status. In fact my Target is always out of it so I am left to order it online which really is nbd. Its special formula includes aloe vera, botanicals, and 5% glycolic acid (a mild dose). And no alcohol! It makes your skin so smooth and soft and is a healthy step to take in your skincare regimen. I use the Tonic that comes in a bottle because it is mild and I have dry sensitive skin, but there is also a fabulous formula called <a href="http://www.target.com/p/pixi-by-petra-glow-peel-pads-60-count/-/A-49128235?lnk=rec|pdpipadh1|related_prods_vv|pdpipadh1|49128235|0" target="_blank">Glow Peel Pads</a> which comes in pre-soaked pads in a jar that contains 20% glycolic acid. These are great for oilier or mature skin or even normal skin to use on a daily basis and are more of a straightforward exfoliation rather than toner.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/facial-radiance-pads-P278317?skuId=1309608&icid2=products%20grid:p278317" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/facial-radiance-pads-P278317?skuId=1309608&icid2=products%20grid:p278317" target="_blank">First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads</a></b> are as gentle as can be, but they still get the job done. They have a formula comprised of lactic acid (the least irritating form of Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and glycolic acid. There is also Indian Gooseberry for toning the skin, and aloe and cucumber for soothing. These pads aren't huge exfoliators - they are really more in the toner category but have been a reliable staple in my skincare collection for years - I always go back to them. I would say any skin type would like them.</div>
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SERUMS</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/good-genes-all-in-one-lactic-acid-treatment-P309308?keyword=SUNDAY%20RILEY%20Good%20Genes%20All-In-One%20Lactic%20Acid%20Treatment%20P309308&skuId=1418581&_requestid=333433" target="_blank">Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment</a></b> gets rave reviews. It's pricey but it'll make your skin look absolutely gorgeous. And again, because it is lactic acid most skin types can tolerate it. For my sensitive skin I only use it every other day just to be on the safe side, but boy do I love it. It has a gorgeous milky consistency that absorbs immediately into the skin to give great glow. It's a "must try"!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.dermstore.com/product_Youth+Complex_10786.htm" target="_blank">iS Clinical Youth Serum</a></b> is another pricey one but well worth the cost. It is extremely anti-aging because not only does it contain fruit (glycolic) acids but also hyaluronic acid and peptides for plumping and retinol and vitamins for revitalizing. You will see immediate as well as long term results. I was introduced to this years ago when I got a facial at the spa. The esthetician there talked me into buying it and it has been a love affair ever since (with the serum, not the esthetician lol).</div>
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MASKS</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/blue-tansy-aha-bha-resurfacing-clarity-mask-P400207?keyword=HERBIVORE%20Blue%20Tansy%20AHA%20%2B%20BHA%20Resurfacing%20Clarity%20Mask%20P400207&skuId=1754589&_requestid=348053" target="_blank">Herbivore Blue Tansy AHA + BHA Resurfacing Clarity Mask</a></b> is my latest fave. It is a 100% natural awesome blue gel of fruit enzymes and salicylic acid that gives you immediately smooth skin and totally unclogs your pores. It's powerful yet not harsh on the skin, my sensitive skin didn't get red or irritated at all. I would only leave it on 5 minutes for sensitive skin but 15 - 20 if your skin can handle it. Using it once a week is usually plenty. I had first gotten it as a free sample at Sephora and I wasn't even going to try it but I did and immediately went out and bought the full jar. It is that good!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/glycol-lactic-radiance-renewal-mask-P203616?skuId=1064187&icid2=products%20grid:p203616" target="_blank">REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask</a></b> has been around for years and is always one of the brand's best sellers. It is full of all kinds of fruit acids and some hydrating ingredients as well. The ingredients are mostly all natural. It's pretty darn strong and not recommended for sensitive skin however I use it anyway but only for 5 minutes. I love it because it <i>really really</i> exfoliates and sometimes that is exactly what I need. I'm sure all the sales associates at Sephora will back me up on recommending this. Also using it once a week is often enough. </div>
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Which one of these appeals to you?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-64916595192617917232016-10-21T16:11:00.001-07:002016-11-17T16:30:04.752-08:00new lippies! haul & reviewI always tell myself I don't <i>need</i> another lip product. But that's not the point is it? I feel like lip colors, more than any other makeup item, are a game changer. Or an outfit changer actually. Changing your lipstick color is like changing your whole outfit. So it stands to reason you would need an entire lipstick wardrobe to be able to give yourself a whole new look every day (heck! several times a day!) So anyway, I expanded my wardrobe with 7 new lippies over the last couple weeks. Some I was able to try on in store but others were sealed or only available on line but I bought them anyway. Here's the rundown of my haul; the good, the bad, and the ugly. Actually no ugly lol.<br />
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I had been meaning to try the <b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/soft-matte-lip-cream?productId=xlsImpprod3020045#" target="_blank">NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream</a></b> for ages and ages. I might even be the only beauty vixen left who hadn't tried it. But I finally did and it is cool. I chose the color <b>Milan</b> because it looked so pretty on one of those YouTube beauty influencers. Every picture of it everywhere makes it look mauve but in reality it is closer to a bright pink with only mauve undertones. And this comes in tons of different colors so I'm dying to try more. As for the consistency, it is a gentle matte - not dry or harsh in any way - you can barely feel it on your lips. It is a lip <i>cream</i> after all. It is not like a traditional liquid lipstick in that it doesn't dry down to 100% transfer-proof but it can be considered fairly long-wearing. For only $5.99 I need at least half a dozen of these beauties!<br />
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I ordered two lip products from <b>Colourpop</b> (only available online): the Ultra Satin Lip and the Ultra Glossy Lip. They were only $6 each!</div>
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The <b><a href="https://colourpop.com/collections/ultra-satin-lip" target="_blank">Ultra Satin Lip</a></b> was actually a bit similar to the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream, but richer and less matte. In fact it is shiny until it wears on your lip for a while, then eventually turns into a satin finish. The velvety pigmentation is incredible! There are 27 colors which you kind of have to guess at because all there is to go by are the website pics, however they seem to be accurate. The consistency is like cream lipstick in a liquid form (uses a doe foot applicator). It will come off and smudge around if you eat or drink - but who cares - thats what lipstick is like. I chose the color <b>Brooklyn</b>, a bright Geranium pink. Fun!</div>
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The <b><a href="https://colourpop.com/collections/ultra-glossy-lip" target="_blank">Ultra Glossy Lip</a></b> is a lip gloss. The color I got (<b>Tight Fit</b>) is to die for but the formula I wasn't keen on. I was expecting this to look super shiny and plumping when in fact it's on the dry side. It's the driest lip gloss I have ever come across. And it doesn't wear for too long either. Still, it's not a total loss because like I said the color is incredible - a metallic peach with shimmer of pink, silver, and gold. I just keep it in the easiest to reach pocket in my purse to reapply frequently and liberally.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkjSO7TbhKpWq8fquskFItRZVr50HwcaW_kRe0b2jnrWBSgEBOnri-zUQWbPI0mWqiJTr1NX5SJvKkoWJTHNIwISeaoueLeyx_eRxh1vzdtlGBYRauOOdE-oOgXZ9ofiEQCHiyaX3otg/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkjSO7TbhKpWq8fquskFItRZVr50HwcaW_kRe0b2jnrWBSgEBOnri-zUQWbPI0mWqiJTr1NX5SJvKkoWJTHNIwISeaoueLeyx_eRxh1vzdtlGBYRauOOdE-oOgXZ9ofiEQCHiyaX3otg/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/vice-lipstick-P409523?keyword=URBAN%20DECAY%20Vice%20Lipstick%20P409523&skuId=1827757&_requestid=347719" target="_blank">Urban Decay Vice Lipsticks</a></b> are some of the best on the market I think. I bought a few of their Satin Finish ones the second they were released but now I want to talk about the Metallic Finish. I just bought <b>Big Bang</b>, a fuchsia sparkle/glitter. The color itself is on the sheer side so to get the full metallic effect you need to apply several layers. Even so, it is fabulous. I get more compliments wearing this than I do any other lipstick. It's not creamy but it's not dry. It's pretty comfortable and wears well; it doesn't get all smeary like some lipsticks do. The Metallic Finish comes in 14 different shades, and I say live a little - try some sparkle in your life!</div>
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<b><a href="https://colouredraine.com/collections/matte-lip-paint/products/mary-lip-paint" target="_blank">Coloured Raine Matte Lip Paint</a></b> was another one I had been wanting to try for ages. Coloured Raine is a cool indie brand, mostly only available on line but not as inexpensive as ColourPop. At $17 a piece you need to choose your lip shades carefully but the photos are user-friendly and fairly accurate. I chose <b>Mary</b>, a burgundy matte with an unusual metal sheen. The color is exquisite! It only came out a bit darker on me than in the pic, but it is the formula I was truly disappointed in. It was streaky and I couldn't for the life of me get a solid finish on it even with a couple layers. It just looked messy and was difficult to apply. I really hate to bash indie brands however I did only try the one color; maybe the other colors work better. I would say it wears about as well as an average liquid lipstick. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17ISTqaDfgcbE7KBguWza3o_6fyIsxQIeXSDoi2e1h7090yRjulUm_mQZtXKyKSI5e749hjSeiuWDMOR0r8bW-fM1jUd4J2ARrpYhcGNcabfWrOM0WkLSab8c1crV0DJGgzv6P5PBPwc/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17ISTqaDfgcbE7KBguWza3o_6fyIsxQIeXSDoi2e1h7090yRjulUm_mQZtXKyKSI5e749hjSeiuWDMOR0r8bW-fM1jUd4J2ARrpYhcGNcabfWrOM0WkLSab8c1crV0DJGgzv6P5PBPwc/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A much much better liquid lipstick I bought is the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/always-on-matte-liquid-lipstick-P409317?skuId=1817147&icid2=products%20grid%3Ap409317" target="_blank">Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick</a></b> in <b>Driver's Seat (</b>a pinky terracotta<b>)</b>. I'm not the hugest fan of the usual dry liquid lipsticks but when I tried this on in the store it was actually quite nice. The application was really luscious, smooth, and pigmented. It never made my lips feel like they were cracking. It lasted a long time however it is NOT transfer-resistant. It will come off on your Starbucks coffee cup or if you kiss your lover. It'll come off but plenty of color also remains. It wears down to something like a stain. But hey, no one's perfect. I think it's worth it just so I don't have to feel discomfort. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrMMSwzwNbvxN_yoVIXWyzUXd3MoSc3LLjilvcHf9hyphenhyphenVCcwwlAEg38WEqGRHWKaUXMNZzVFbi5j5N0bepBkCzdTWfdOX_7tR2IJ9F80Kj95t85lHx4zBh6a-MsXQ7xWPKbJU8zxlknjM/s1600/s1817147-main-Lhero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrMMSwzwNbvxN_yoVIXWyzUXd3MoSc3LLjilvcHf9hyphenhyphenVCcwwlAEg38WEqGRHWKaUXMNZzVFbi5j5N0bepBkCzdTWfdOX_7tR2IJ9F80Kj95t85lHx4zBh6a-MsXQ7xWPKbJU8zxlknjM/s320/s1817147-main-Lhero.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am in love with my new <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/limited-edition-studded-kiss-lipstick-P413180?keyword=KAT%20VON%20D%20Limited%20Edition%20Studded%20Kiss%20Lipstick%20P413180&skuId=1848423&_requestid=370810" target="_blank">Kat Von D Limited Edition Studded Kiss Lipstick</a></b> in <b>Lolita II</b>! It is the first time her regular lipstick has come out in the famous color of her liquid lipstick Lolita II. AND the limited edition packaging is totally amped up to a gunmetal silver tube, not the usual black. How could I resist? The shade truly is incredible; maybe not super duper flattering on me but definitely divine. And at first I didn't like the texture of the lipstick. It is dry. But strangely not cakey dry. It is a sheer matte formula that wears for hours. It somehow molds to my lips in the most flattering way so that it doesn't <i>look</i> dry. And with a clear gloss on top it is beyond beautiful. I have come to crave the feel of it on my lips. Sounds corny? Maybe, but I highly suggest you run out and buy one of these limited edition lipsticks (they come in 3 colors) before they run out.</div>
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What lippies have you bought lately?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-55753380111938337942016-10-14T15:44:00.000-07:002016-10-14T18:44:10.760-07:00dark rose perfumesThe rose perfumes of today are not your grandmother's rose (though there is a lot to be said for those). What is popular with many these days is the "dark rose". I think of a dark rose perfume as a regular rose perfume with notes of patchouli, amber, musk, or even woody notes added. It takes rose from polite to seductive in 0.5 seconds. It is sensual and alluring, maybe even sometimes dangerous. It brings the scent of rose to an excitable level. I am even excited just to be talking about them! Here are a few of my favorites; most if not all are considered unisex, often another characteristic of the dark rose.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.fragrancenet.com/perfume/juliette-has-a-gun/vengeance-extreme/eau-de-parfum?gclid=CjwKEAjwhILABRDwo8mlqt6ug38SJACNSq_kV0Kmj_FcEH8nuUu2ERVM2Db00P_duocCDebLWQDNjBoCGSXw_wcB&mv_pc=gawus_pla_with_promotion_c_g_238487&utm_campaign=g&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google_us#238487" target="_blank">Juliette Has A Gun Vengeance Extreme</a></b> is all about the patchouli. Most perfumes use that as the base note but VE features it as a mid note. Of course there is the rose too - plenty of rose. What I love about it is the musky-cologney vibe, especially in the dry down. But then there's the vanilla. VE would be a tad too masculine if not for the significant vanilla presence which softens it. It is perfect for wearing out at night - preferably to a crowded dark venue to see live music. Juliette Has a Gun also makes a perfume called <a href="http://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Juliette-Has-A-Gun/Lady-Vengeance-1715.html" target="_blank">Lady Vengeance</a> which is in a way similar, but think of Vengeance Extreme as being the edgier, subversive/not so popular sister. And of course the packaging is wicked cool.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2k8Vb_OQ31T9sNOI12eLdUcBdcZ965uwbvvVbD5gwqBnNn4Qi6CYmvHs-3GSRIbqqiwUwv-q-qiI3DTzk_EGWLsmhkHsJdim1wI7kxEthJ1IQnxOhfcvLRmDzrqdCr4j9MdVoJteZDyI/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2k8Vb_OQ31T9sNOI12eLdUcBdcZ965uwbvvVbD5gwqBnNn4Qi6CYmvHs-3GSRIbqqiwUwv-q-qiI3DTzk_EGWLsmhkHsJdim1wI7kxEthJ1IQnxOhfcvLRmDzrqdCr4j9MdVoJteZDyI/s320/blog.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.luckyscent.com/product/47718/rossy-de-palma-eau-de-protection-by-etat-libre-dorange" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.luckyscent.com/product/47718/rossy-de-palma-eau-de-protection-by-etat-libre-dorange" target="_blank">Etat Libre D'Orange Rossy de Palma Eau De Protection</a></b> is not something people often talk about but I love it. It is named after the famous Spanish actress Rossy De Palma and her (rose) gardens in Madrid. However this is an outrageous rose: a spicy, peppery, balsamic rose. It is thorny, it is sharp, and of course there is the patchouli and incense which define it as a dark rose. I appreciate that they used incense, not just the usual patchouli. ELDO is a quirky brand and their quirky reason for this title of "Eau De Protection" was to make it a "perfume of protection, a refuge on the battle field of love." So wear it day or night: on a hot date, or an exhilarating adventure of your own.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.beautyspin.com/clinique/beyond-rose-eau-de-parfum-for-women/?ppcbee-adtext-variant=Trademarks+-+%C5%99ady+-+parf%C3%A9my" target="_blank">Clinique Beyond Rose</a></b> is loved by many despite its difficulty to obtain. It's not available in stores here in the US, but hopefully someday it will come. Until then people are satisfactorily making it a online blind buy or going to Harrod's in London if they can. There is a dusky-resin quality, sophisticated yet mischievous. There are notes of pepper and a hint of floral greenness, and a very dominant amber reminiscent of the Middle East. It is lighter than most dark roses yet it retains the sex-appeal. It is a year-round rose, meant to be sprayed lavishly, and worn by vixens of any age.</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/MANCERA-Roseaoud-Musc-Parfum-120Ml/dp/B00H6P25MI" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/MANCERA-Roseaoud-Musc-Parfum-120Ml/dp/B00H6P25MI" target="_blank">Mancera Roseaoud & Musc</a></b> is my favorite dark rose. Certainly it is the sexiest of all the roses I am listing here - I think it is because of the saffron and jasmine. Oh, and the oud - there is nothing not sexy about oud. It is heavy and pungent and addictive, and very much alive with all the romance of Arabia. And this is going to sound weird but when I wear it I feel like I smell like a rich person. It smells of wealth. I am transported to a dimly lit lair of wooly Persian rugs, oversized and overstuffed velvet pillows, a low wooden table laid out with platters of Turkish Delight, saffron rice balls, and other finger-food delicacies. And yes, of course, a giant urn of roses at the very peak of ripeness.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/nirvana-rose-P410644?keyword=ELIZABETH%20AND%20JAMES%20Nirvana%20Rose%20P410644&skuId=1849959&_requestid=377641" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/nirvana-rose-P410644?keyword=ELIZABETH%20AND%20JAMES%20Nirvana%20Rose%20P410644&skuId=1849959&_requestid=377641" target="_blank">Elizabeth and James Nirvana Rose</a></b> is being written about all over the place, and with good reason. In fact I recently blogged about it in my <a href="http://www.beauty-vixen.com/2016/09/fantastic-fall-fragrances-2016.html" target="_blank">fantastic fall fragrances 2016</a> so you can get more great details about it there. An Allure Best Of Beauty Winner, it is bringing the world of dark rose to the general population. Is that a good thing? Well, why not? Nirvana Rose is luscious and delicious and lively. The geranium and vetiver are what really make this unique. It feels like "young" dark rose, sexy to it's core.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.luckyscent.com/product/35417/roses-musk-by-montale" target="_blank">Montale Roses Musk</a></b> took a while to grow on me because it was delicate and not as in-your-face as many dark roses are. Now I really appreciate its restraint and refinement. There is no grunge-factor here. I like that here is no patchouli (nice for a change), and the jasmine makes the rose sparkle. It's awfully pretty for a dark rose, but the light animalic musk base note still defines it as such. To me this is a daytime scent - great for meeting friends for lunch, shopping and trying on clothes, or even going to work. My one and only complaint about this beauty is the packaging - so unappealing! </div>
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Have you caught on to the dark rose craze yet?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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<br />Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-90392923555252193382016-10-06T13:33:00.001-07:002016-10-14T20:37:56.344-07:00splurge! October 2016If you are in the mood for something heavenly, this post is for you. Whether you actually plunk down the money for one of these beauties or just admire from afar they are thoroughly enjoyable. I regularly make the rounds at Neiman's, Bloomies, Saks, and even Barney's just to drool. I always come away excited to share what I have seen with you. And I may be biased but I think all my "splurge!" posts are a lot of fun (just type splurge in the "search this blog" bar - there are plenty to read!). See what you think of these.....<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/fresh-fig-bath-body-collection-P380954?skuId=1323278&publisher_id=255779&sub_publisher=g&is_mobile=&sub1=&sub_keyword=&sub_campaign=378477159&sub_placement=&gdevice=c&gclid=Cj0KEQjw7Ne_BRDRmP2ojKfzv98BEiQAPuqPyQzAeBIrx-D7uDJHds1zx2RqF5psH32qufzX3sMoP8saAubq8P8HAQ&site=_search&om_mmc=ppc-GG_378477159_27499840479_pla-81608365959_1323278_97594791759_9032151_c&gmodel=&country_switch=&lang=en&sub_ad=97594791759" target="_blank">Laura Mercier Fresh Fig Wash</a></b> is a shower gel to die for. Not only is it creamy and hydrating but the scent is divine. It's definitely very figgy but on the sweet (not overly sweet) gourmand side, not the usual dry dusky fig. That said there is still the luscious green note that is common to all figs. It's a bit decadent to use as a shave cream but if you are in the mood for it, it does give a smooth soft shave. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating on the Sephora website which is rare. I say pick it up now - the scent is perfect for Fall!<br />
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<b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tom-ford-eyeshadow-quad/3622573" target="_blank">Tom Ford Eyeshadow quads</a></b> are ridiculously expensive, but also ridiculously gorgeous. Definitely worthy of the occasional splurge. The smooth blendable texture and unique colors makes them worth it. They are known for their sparkly eyeshadows which you get one or two pans of in most of the quads. <b>Disco Dust</b> is their most popular quad, and even though I hate to be too trendy, I just had to have it because the glitter it contains is sublime. Disco Dust has one glitter, one metallic, one satin, and one matte color that go with virtually any skin tone or outfit. <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.barneys.com/search/cire-trudon/N-th325v?q=candles" target="_blank">Cire Trudon candles</a></b> are a classic. They start at $95 and can get as <span style="text-align: center;">high as $550 for the gold ones, but at least they are quite large in size. What is super cool about this brand is that it has been around since 1643 as a candle supplier to Louis XIV, and to this day they are all about luxury. Also nice is that their vegetable wax is smoke-free. All its different fragrances are decadent and unique. A couple of my favorites are: </span><b style="text-align: center;">Balmoral</b><span style="text-align: center;"> a lush damp earthy green, and </span><b style="text-align: center;">Byron</b><span style="text-align: center;"> a perfect Fall/Winter cozy woodsy spicy scent. Simply divine! </span><br />
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<b><a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/hermes-eau-de-rhubarbe-ecarlate-perfumed-bath-shower-gel?ID=1744390&pla_country=US&cm_mmc=Google-PLA-ADC-_-Beauty-NA-_-Hermes-_-3346133030451USA&CAWELAID=120156070003487085&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=15172030951&CATCI=aud-179496473104:pla-96442958431&catargetid=120156070000456239&cadevice=c" target="_blank">Hermes Eau de Rhubarbe Ecarlate Perfumed Bath & Shower Gel </a></b>is another fabulous body wash. It is so fabulous I just had to mention it even though I already listed a shower gel. Of course there are other fragrances in the Hermes shower gel line but the rhubarbe is delightfully individual, complex, and refreshing. It is fruity but not in an overpowering way. It is not sweet like a berry, it is not sharp like a citrus. It is pretty - a pretty fruit. The frothy gel is clear but it comes in a vibrant red plastic bottle that is irresistible. In fact, I would say it smells bright red like the packaging.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRcygngQ-7A0TfyfVfBwJS-GhwuOfuVvkGpvYjLXKJMsw5wdPlJ2qLhCqMVayXPXwb9rhOA8AXebbDBIdMjT2tfXmyOxOfp3DWX-uj18bGebu7jAOgmnbj28gkiBQ5KU6vLUXN3nCEfk/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRcygngQ-7A0TfyfVfBwJS-GhwuOfuVvkGpvYjLXKJMsw5wdPlJ2qLhCqMVayXPXwb9rhOA8AXebbDBIdMjT2tfXmyOxOfp3DWX-uj18bGebu7jAOgmnbj28gkiBQ5KU6vLUXN3nCEfk/s400/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$43 for 6.5 oz</td></tr>
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<b><br /><a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446640703&site_refer=GGLPRADS001&prod_id=0466772649180&cagpspn=pla&CAWELAID=500002830000734781&catargetid=500002830005596876&cadevice=c&gclid=Cj0KEQjw7Ne_BRDRmP2ojKfzv98BEiQAPuqPyfmXoKT-500PMGwM8ugdOhfGj79r6Lkp8df__QM_fDgaAjov8P8HAQ" target="_blank">By Killian Playing With The Devil</a></b> is a sexy fruity musky perfume. At least they say it is fruity but to me the fruit isn't prominent - it is just enough to lighten up all the animalic notes going on. I would describe it as sometimes even borderlining on oriental, but a light one - nothing as intense as say Opium. It is sophisticated yet playful. It is Eve tempting Adam with the forbidden fruit. And above all, it is a crowd pleaser; I can't imagine many people not liking this one. Top notes include: blood orange, white peach, lychee. Mid notes include Jasmine Sambac (dirty!). Base notes include: Tonka Bean, cedar, sandalwood, patchouli.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyVPr9-GzWr1_YcrKKZwNM7wh3cQkIcG2mdJueUYPiIksHwpuFUiF9NhuyjlS3nDeCB7Ph_XJ3Y5sKAfaayZ_84e93gHwXbvQQH7glMrpbxBu4lJTdQES5Y7HyYAWXVqdXmRGuKJMCoU/s1600/blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyVPr9-GzWr1_YcrKKZwNM7wh3cQkIcG2mdJueUYPiIksHwpuFUiF9NhuyjlS3nDeCB7Ph_XJ3Y5sKAfaayZ_84e93gHwXbvQQH7glMrpbxBu4lJTdQES5Y7HyYAWXVqdXmRGuKJMCoU/s320/blog.png" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$260 for 1.7 oz</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Oribe-Apres-Beach-Wave-and-Shine-Hairspray-8-5oz/prod154530114/p.prod?icid=&searchType=MAIN&rte=%2Fsearch.jsp%3Ffrom%3DbrSearch%26request_type%3Dsearch%26search_type%3Dkeyword%26q%3Doribe+hair&eItemId=prod154530114&cmCat=search&tc=99&currentItemCount=17&q=oribe+hair&searchURL=/search.jsp%3Ffrom%3DbrSearch%26start%3D0%26rows%3D30%26q%3Doribe+hair%26l%3Doribe+hair%26request_type%3Dsearch%26search_type%3Dkeyword" target="_blank">Oribe Apres Beach Wave And Shine Hairspray</a></b> is terrific if you use it under the right circumstances. The optimal circumstances are for medium to thick hair, hair with at least a bit of natural wave, and always to be used sparingly. More is not more, otherwise you will end up a grease ball. Despite all that it can be so so lovely, though it is not even similar the the famous <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Oribe-Dry-Texturizing-Spray-8-5-oz-br-b-NM-Beauty-Award-Winner-2016-Finalist-2015-2014-b/prod136060043/p.prod?icid=&searchType=MAIN&rte=%2Fsearch.jsp%3Ffrom%3DbrSearch%26request_type%3Dsearch%26search_type%3Dkeyword%26q%3Doribe+hair&eItemId=prod136060043&cmCat=search&tc=99&currentItemCount=1&q=oribe+hair&searchURL=/search.jsp%3Ffrom%3DbrSearch%26start%3D0%26rows%3D30%26q%3Doribe+hair%26l%3Doribe+hair%26request_type%3Dsearch%26search_type%3Dkeyword" target="_blank">Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray</a> (also totally splurge-worthy). The results are soft and subtle; not a ton of hold. On me it smooths down frizzies while emphasizing my natural waves in an edgy-piecey way. Day two of wearing it, after the silkiness has absorbed, I get a bit of volume and texture. Using it is like wearing my favorite perfume - it smells <i>that</i> amazing! It's pretty damn cool - not like anything I have ever tried before. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZfUjVjYrPxTK1GXE0cpNZurMwS5WJIWx1Ip0tVUXl8b6MPIyYIG4oEQfL9Z0EpInmosAtPtV12j5omJVmmX8sZtWop-k9mUp1c5guCq2npVa9O6F_wphFLEVioHxJwnb-5M2mBWDzmA/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZfUjVjYrPxTK1GXE0cpNZurMwS5WJIWx1Ip0tVUXl8b6MPIyYIG4oEQfL9Z0EpInmosAtPtV12j5omJVmmX8sZtWop-k9mUp1c5guCq2npVa9O6F_wphFLEVioHxJwnb-5M2mBWDzmA/s320/blog.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$39 for 8.5 oz</td></tr>
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What do you value as splurge-worthy?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span><br />
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Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7441569569641743876.post-499775258319654292016-09-30T14:25:00.000-07:002016-09-30T20:09:25.545-07:00September beauty favorites September was kind of a crazy month and I am glad it is behind me. The weather was nuts; first cooling off and getting me excited for Fall, then along came a huge heat wave reaching 100 degrees, and then Bam! bordering on cold today. I also had a weird head cold that left everything feeling surreal for a couple weeks. And the kids came back to school but I forgot to avoid my local Starbucks between 3:00 and 4:00 when they swarm in ordering what seems like 2 Frappaccinos each. Everything just seemed off. But there were a few good things too. I really enjoyed these beauty items, to name a few.....<br />
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The <b><a href="http://www.ulta.com/miracle-complexion-sponge?productId=xlsImpprod5960824" target="_blank">Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge</a></b> is only $6.99 and works just as well as the $20 Beauty Blender. I still can't believe it! It is amazing and I am in love. It isn't an exact dupe though, it is shaped differently than a Beauty Blender and it is firmer in texture. Still, it has all the right angles and makes foundation go on very smooth. I feel like buying a dozen they are so fabulous and cheap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwE1wEAOOJdDOdDlMIC1_dzmRqte_9V5UT86l8Iop9slW2o55HFXYKiCyDcRtyeLvq23qsLHo5BlLdYaE_Modff3SYneDOHJs_rcTNopgbDd7nCoZXYW1iz468ZPU67jGhWb1eHcj-1o/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwE1wEAOOJdDOdDlMIC1_dzmRqte_9V5UT86l8Iop9slW2o55HFXYKiCyDcRtyeLvq23qsLHo5BlLdYaE_Modff3SYneDOHJs_rcTNopgbDd7nCoZXYW1iz468ZPU67jGhWb1eHcj-1o/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/creme-de-rose-smoothing-plumping-lip-balm-P254222?keyword=DIOR%20Cr%C3%A8me%20de%20Rose%20Smoothing%20Plumping%20Lip%20Balm%20P254222&skuId=1223338&_requestid=323528" target="_blank"><br /></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/creme-de-rose-smoothing-plumping-lip-balm-P254222?keyword=DIOR%20Cr%C3%A8me%20de%20Rose%20Smoothing%20Plumping%20Lip%20Balm%20P254222&skuId=1223338&_requestid=323528" target="_blank">Dior Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm</a></b> is luxury personified. It doesn't hydrate much more than some of the better lip balms but the texture and rose scent have me completely addicted. The texture is hard to describe - it's kinda like a creamy silky balm - different than any other lip treatment I have tried. And the packaging is also to die for - a substantial yet classy embossed white tub. It was totally worth the slpurge.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEdvacIHsysU5FZ2zYwX38q8eNYXY7oHSTxFalhkKQ8alDm5Mw5MnXW_kInRvTo7HShyphenhyphenI4awUTiYKtASxQg3JGchd_QeAc2aKoukYlgMu14fAmrDD1fLlsAYOZsdjkL6pkFvueO1Nc1Y/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEdvacIHsysU5FZ2zYwX38q8eNYXY7oHSTxFalhkKQ8alDm5Mw5MnXW_kInRvTo7HShyphenhyphenI4awUTiYKtASxQg3JGchd_QeAc2aKoukYlgMu14fAmrDD1fLlsAYOZsdjkL6pkFvueO1Nc1Y/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another <b>Dior</b> luxury I have and love is the <b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/dior-huile-abricot-daily-nutritive-serum/3570844?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort" target="_blank">Huile Abricot Daily Nutrative Serum</a></b> for nails and cuticles. It instantly softens and hydrates (and long term strengthens the nails) which is great but I particularly love the applicator; a brush at the end of the tube. It only needs a gentle squeeze otherwise too much oil comes out of the brush but it's such an easy and convenient way to apply. And I think there really is something to the apricot, although there is argan and vitamin E oil in the mix as well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPwINotz36huCYpHhS7Fly3poLEnlTbP_LLFUmZTck31qIYM4ciISvjNe3K8_lfMb4fi7aOsHhAwBWniM1_nVSTMDrtg_ylkwzvbiW2t27QjEUFR4zNI3-AIuR7SjsCxQ91GhudAjj_o/s1600/blog.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPwINotz36huCYpHhS7Fly3poLEnlTbP_LLFUmZTck31qIYM4ciISvjNe3K8_lfMb4fi7aOsHhAwBWniM1_nVSTMDrtg_ylkwzvbiW2t27QjEUFR4zNI3-AIuR7SjsCxQ91GhudAjj_o/s320/blog.jpeg" width="261" /></a></div>
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My <b><a href="http://www.dermstore.com/product_The+Sponge+Cloth_1165.htm" target="_blank">Dermalogica The Sponge Cloth</a></b> is a skin-saver. Because of my sensitive skin I use it instead of a regular face cloth. It is extremely soft, a sort of microfiber that is bacteria resistant so you can use it a bunch of times before throwing it the washing machine with the rest of the laundry. I actually have a couple in rotation and they last for about a year before I have to get new ones. It really is terrific!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVLzPKiP2wo5fZXFg1q2yaEfAcC4VUZile0yVTTSLaWeZiLdgYcCAN3Bk7rbbRy898_yb_lLP7stuVST-Xk7Rhnf5TIoSRdse6x6YHWjh7ZM55h81hWRs1mRLP9CpXC7hSHWuC2OYfHU/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVLzPKiP2wo5fZXFg1q2yaEfAcC4VUZile0yVTTSLaWeZiLdgYcCAN3Bk7rbbRy898_yb_lLP7stuVST-Xk7Rhnf5TIoSRdse6x6YHWjh7ZM55h81hWRs1mRLP9CpXC7hSHWuC2OYfHU/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got the <b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/waterproof-contour-eye-pencil-P377784?skuId=1473883&icid2=products%20grid:p377784" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Contour Eye Pencil 12 Hour Wear Waterproof - Flirting Game</a> </b>in my monthly Sephora Play subscription box and I absolutely adore it. It's a super soft and creamy formula (not to everyone's taste, I know) that gives me a sultry look, especially when I blend it out. And despite being so creamy it really locks on and stays put once it has dried on the skin. This makes it fab for the waterline too. They gave me the color Flirting Game which is described as a taupe but it goes on darker than just a plain taupe (and looks darker than in this pic). It's a flattering color that goes well with a ton of eye looks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOzTYoGWy4vAhaHAjo6LfJkl5k_o44plrtflh31vbw_s8jOCqNF0KiwjyorzQT9umCtSFvnN8JYXIa2162koX9Kg8C3K_OItchBgtLeKFqwQZ1qmw0dMSaVSoUxchExtRunqEkY3r1Gg/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOzTYoGWy4vAhaHAjo6LfJkl5k_o44plrtflh31vbw_s8jOCqNF0KiwjyorzQT9umCtSFvnN8JYXIa2162koX9Kg8C3K_OItchBgtLeKFqwQZ1qmw0dMSaVSoUxchExtRunqEkY3r1Gg/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mac-star-trek-lipglass-limited-edition/4461780?origin=category-personalizedsort" target="_blank"><b>MAC Star Trek Lipglass - Warp Speed</b> <b>Ahead</b></a> is a limited edition lipgloss celebrating Star Trek's 50th anniversary. So cool! It's almost all gone so you better act fast, in fact I think it might be just online or behind the counter by now. I receive so many compliments when I wear this, you wouldn't believe. The color is a pretty magenta purple with sparkles not glitter. When the sun hits it it looks spectacular! I wear it either alone or layered on top of one of my darker pink lipsticks. I should really buy a back-up before they are all gone.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fhDslC79TUbH4j9ZJbbudG_oFer5CzW6oKTOurzPuiHmiwxw9KVtad3xlvX2qU10nL-MlOWDX9V6JbGgQcrNAAERMhBlycBIm0T7Baq1-Qu-mDhWLzp5_VoPfFtmCmwDopbDREvX6bE/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fhDslC79TUbH4j9ZJbbudG_oFer5CzW6oKTOurzPuiHmiwxw9KVtad3xlvX2qU10nL-MlOWDX9V6JbGgQcrNAAERMhBlycBIm0T7Baq1-Qu-mDhWLzp5_VoPfFtmCmwDopbDREvX6bE/s320/blog.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
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So that's it for me, what were your favorites this September?</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fb5e53; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">all products reviewed were either bought, researched, or sampled by me. And product pictures were stolen from the link's websites. I am not financially compensated for my reviews</span></div>
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Kate Curryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06342633153645161142noreply@blogger.com0