Gimme That Glow

MAC Viva Glam Nicki 2 Lipstick and Lipglass Review

2013-05-08T08:00:00.001-04:00

Nicki, Nicki, Nicki...Where do I even begin? I'll start by admitting that I was never a fan of Nicki's first Viva Glam lipstick with MAC because the shade was unflattering and just not a wearable color for most complexions. But at the same time it's almost like can we really expect more from Nicki Minaj? The chick who prides herself in looking like a "Barb" with over the top personalities and attire? And to be honest when Viva Glam 2 came out I was just as disappointed if not more. In all honesty I wasn't even going to try Nicki's shades for myself because most of the swatches I have seen were enough to let me know that I did not want to spend money on something that would clearly be a waste. But when I was approached with the opportunity to review it I figured why not? Check out more of my thoughts and photos below.

Viva Glam Nicki 2

Lipglass x Lipstick

Swatches

Viva Glam Nicki 2

Lipstick

A few photos of the lipstick and gloss paired together.

Glow: Well the most positive thing about the Viva Glam collections is that all of the proceeds go towards helping those affected by HIV/Aids. So it is definitely a cause worth supporting. As far as Viva Glam Nicki 2, the color is described as a pastel lavender pink with a creamy finish. Since the lipstick and gloss are such cool shades I actually used a lip liner in Nightmoth by MAC to warm up the tone just a bit. I only used a light swipe of the liner so it's not really noticeable in the photos above but it definitely made the color a bit less washed out looking. Unfortunately I didn't do comparison swatches with and without the liner.

Glare: I guess with Nicki's brand (as odd as she can be) I can see why it makes sense in her mind to go with shades like these. But honestly as a woman of color I find it somewhat unsettling to not at least consider colors that are a bit more wearable and versatile. It just seems so single minded and all about Nicki, but again maybe that was the idea.

Final Thoughts: Well, I don't hate it nor do I love it. And it's definitely something I would never purchase for myself because I just don't think it's flattering on me. True enough when used with darker lip liners the shade is workable and can be made deeper but to me that defeats the purpose of the original color. I like to keep it simple when it comes to makeup and I'm definitely not the one to be mixing colors.

Where To Buy: Viva Glam Nicki 2 by MAC is currently available online and at MAC counters nationwide. To purchase or to learn more you can visit www.maccosmetics.com.

OPI Euro Centrale Collection Swatches + Review

2013-05-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

I'm so behind with updates and I've been meaning to post these for quite some time now but life has been getting the best of me lately :-) Anywho, I'm glad spring is finally here although it's been a very rainy one so far. OPI's Euro Centrale Collection for Spring/Summer was originally released back in February and consists of 12 new shades with various textures. Check out swatches and my complete review below.

You’re Such a BudaPest

If I let you borrow this periwinkle-purple, will you go away?

Can’t Find My Czechbook

I hope you take credit, because I must have this aqua!

My Paprika is Hotter than Yours!

Get the extinguisher...this fiery red is sizzling!

OPI…Eurso Euro

This deep blue cream is very continental.

Suzi’s Hungary AGAIN!

Thank goodness there are zero calories in this warm and yummy pink!

I Saw…U Saw…We Saw…Warsaw

Be seen in this deep midnight blue.

Hands Off My Kielbasa!

Get your own...this bronzy tan is all mine!

OY–Another Polish Joke!

So this shimmery-gold walks into a bar...

A Woman’s Prague-ative

I’m changing this shimmery copper for...never mind!

My Vampire is Buff

Creamy, pale and nude...just how I like my vampires.

Polka.com

Blue and violet are dancing partners in this glittery combo.

Glow: I must say that I do love the variety in color that OPI used for this collection. while I do adore brights for spring and summer I like that they threw in a few warmer shades as well. As always most of the formulas are pretty good and consistent. My favorties from the bunch are OPI…Eurso Euro (a deep ocean blue), OY–Another Polish Joke! (shimmery gold) and Polka.com (the glittery top coat).

Glare: As I mentioned for the most part the formulas were good but what I've noticed about some of OPI's lighter creme's is that they are a bit more difficult to apply -which is what I experienced with My Vampire is Buff (the pale nude).

Final Thoughts: I do like the collection as a whole but once again I kind of feel like I've seen half of these colors before with OPI. And in my honest opinion there are just no must-have shades that stand out to me.

Where To Buy: Euro Centrale by OPI is currently available in various retailers nationwide. To purchase, find locations near you or to learn more please visit www.opi.com.

Bio Follicle Vegan Sulfate-Free Shampoo & Conditioner Review

2013-04-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

In a world where everything's over processed and overflowing with harsh chemicals it's refreshing to see companies creating products that are cruelty free and don't consist of harmful ingredients. Bio Follicle is a leading manufacturer of vegan, all-natural and organic premium hair care and hair loss & restoration products. With millions of people experiencing hair loss, shedding and thinning, Bio Follicle has created a formula with a proven 89% success rate for hair re-growth. I recently got a chance to try out Bio Follicle's Vegan Aromatherapy Shampoo and Conditioner in Lavender. The sets come in a variety of scents also including Rosemary & Mint, Pomegranate and Lemongrass & Sage.

All of Bio Follicle products are cruelty-free with no animal by-products, parabens, petrochemicals, SLS free (Sodium Laurel Sulfate), petroleum, silicones, synthetic fragrances, artificial colors, or formaldehyde.

Glow: When I was first introduced to Bio Follicle, the one thing that stood out the most is that these products are formulated with Aromatherapy -which I love! For those of you who aren't familiar with aroma-therapeutic products just imagine your favorite scent blended with tingly relaxing ingredients that refresh, sooth and awaken your senses. What I liked most about these products is that they stimulated my scalp and felt tingly, I almost didn't want to wash the conditioner out lol. The shampoo lathered well and ridded my hair of left over residue leaving it feeling squeaky clean! I also noticed that my hair didn't shed as much while detangling and combing the conditioner through my curls.

Glare: The only downside for me is that I expected the Lavender scent to be a bit more prominent but it's very subtle and has more of an earthy and organic smell. So if you're expecting something with a dominant scent you won't find that with these products. While I do love the smell of lavender this isn't really a deal breaker for me.

Final Thoughts: I can't say that there was anything super spectacular about these products other than the fact that they are vegan. The shampoo and conditioner does work well with my hair type and my results were pretty normal to what my hair usually looks like with any other shampoo/conditioner. I do think Bio Follicle will be very beneficial to the vegan-friendly type of consumer who's more conscious about ingredients. I know that I need to get a few more washes in before I see significant results so I will continue to use these products and I'll be sure to post any updates I encounter along the way :-)

Where To Buy: Bio Follicle is currently available online and the shampoo and conditioner ranges from $22-25 each. To purchase or to learn more please visit http://www.biofollicle.com.

Pantene Truly Natural Hair Collection Review

2013-04-10T16:59:00.000-04:00

With warmer weather quickly approaching I've been anticipating more low maintenance hair routines. Having natural hair; my favorite go-to style is the simple yet effective wash and go. I love it because not only is it quick and easy but it also gives me beautiful curls that I can wear without the hassle of spending long hours under the dryer or in the salon. I recently got the opportunity to try out a few products from Pantene's Truly Natural hair care line which include a clarifying shampoo, deep conditioner, and a styling custard for defining curls.

Glow: I have to start by saying that Pantene has always been a staple in my hair care regimen and I have tried many of their products before so needless to say that I was more than excited about testing out their Truly Natural line which finally caters to girls with curly hair. During my application of the products the first step was to wash my hair with the Truly Natural Clarifying Shampoo which is formulated to remove build-up and oily reside left in your hair. The thing I loved most about this shampoo is that it gives a great lather with just a small amount of product and that it really made my hair feel squeaky clean without drying it out. And for someone with super oily hair like me, that's definitely a huge plus! Next, I applied the Truly Natural Deep Conditioner which works to moisturize and detangle your hair. Any girl with curly hair knows that a good detangler is an absolute must and this conditioner didn't fall short of my expectations. I love the scent and it did a really good job at loosening my curls so I could comb through and detangle them. My hair also felt super soft. Lastly, after rinsing out the conditioner I applied the Truly Natural Defining Curls Custard to my damp hair and worked it through from root to ends for an even coverage then I allowed my hair to air dry for a few hours. Once dry I noticed that my curls were really defined and my hair felt soft and had a great shine to it!

Glare: I have to admit that I was a little skeptical about the styling custard before using it because I've tried many custards in the past by other brands which didn't produce favorable results. But to my surprise the Truly Natural Styling Custard was totally different. The consistency of the product is sort of thick and sticky more along the lines of a styling gel but not as thick. So the formula is between a cream and a gel, which worked for me. It was thick enough to define and hold my curls in place and at the same time it was still lightweight and manageable and did not flake or leave any residue behind and best of all it left my hair frizz free.

Final Thoughts: I'm really happy to see that Pantene is continuing to to develop products that are more specific to the needs of their consumer. I can tell that they really took their time in the creation of this Truly Natural line and I definitely plan to continue using it for my curly hair needs this summer!

Where To Buy: The great thing is that all of the products are super affordable (about $4.49 each) and convenient to find. They are currently available in most local drugstores nationwide. To find a location near you or to learn more about Pantene Truly Natural please visit their website.

Truly Relaxed and Truly Natural - Two collections from Pantene for healthier hair* no matter what your style. *Vs. non-conditioning shampoo.

OPI Joins Bond 007 to Release Six New Revolutionary Liquid Sand™ Nail Lacquers

2013-03-21T08:00:00.000-04:00

OPI announces the launch of Bond Girls, a collection of six new Liquid Sand™ nail lacquers featuring a textured, matte finish infused with reflective sparkle fitting the allure surrounding the Bond Girls. In hues of white, pink, blue, purple, gold and coral,Bond Girls offers a range of shimmering shades with the distinctive Liquid Sand finish.

“OPI is extremely excited to partner again with EON Productions,” says Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI co-founder & Artistic Director. “Following the success of the holiday promotion with the latest James Bond film, Skyfall, it’s been a thrill to create colors for the women who’ve captured Bond’s attention over the last five decades.

“The six shades are named after some of the most iconic – and my favorite – Bond girls, including: Solitaire, Pussy Galore,Tiffany Case, Vesper, Honey Ryder and Jinx,” adds Weiss-Fischmann. “Worn without top coat, these Liquid Sand lacquers give nails a pebbled, matte finish worthy of the captivating ‘Bond Girls’ name.”

Bond Girls by OPI features six Liquid Sand nail lacquers:

Solitaire

This diamond-sparkling white is totally engaging.

Pussy Galore

This light feminine pink has the purrrfect amount of shimmer.

Tiffany Case

A classic light blue worth investigating.

Vesper

A mysterious and intriguing deep purple.

Honey Ryder

Take a ryde on the wild side in this shimmery gold.

Jinx

This mesmerizing matte coral has lucky sparkle.

OPI Liquid Sand lacquers should always be worn without top coat.

Bond Girls by OPI nail lacquers feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush for the ultimate in application. These six new shades will be available beginning May 2013 at Professional Salons, including Beauty Brands, Chatters, JCP Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, and ULTA, for $9.00 ($10.95 CAN) suggested retail for each nail lacquer.

For more information, please call 800-341-9999 or visit www.opi.com. Follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTS and become a Facebook fan!

Giveaway:: Enter To Win a Complete NutriBullet System!

2013-03-19T01:43:00.002-04:00

Summer is right around the corner and as we prepare for warmer weather many of us are making healthier choices not only to just look better but also feel better in our bodies. I plan to incorporate clean eating into my diet really soon. What I love most about the idea of clean eating is that it's not really a "diet" but a lifestyle plus an easy way to consume nutritional foods that we should be eating anyway. The NutriBullet is a fantastic fresh food blender that's guaranteed to get you going in the right direction when it comes to healthy choices. With that said, a few of my beauty pals and I have teamed up to give away a NutriBullet to one lucky reader! The details and entry form are below, good luck!
This giveaway is sponsored by Addicted to All Things Pretty, Glitter Gloss Garbage, Creatively Yours by Ro, Gimme That Glow, Cosmetically Challenged If you are unable to see the entry form below, please access this page from a computer. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nicole by OPI Modern Family Collection Swatches + Review

2013-03-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

I know I've been slacking a little on the updates but I'm trying to get back in the swing of things ^_^ I'm sort of an on and off again watcher when it comes to the show Modern Family. There are so many great shows on at the same time that I don't really get to watch it as much as I'd like to. Nevertheless I thought it was pretty interesting when I learned that Nicole by OPI teamed up with the show to create a collection reminiscent of the characters. The collection consists of 14 polishes that were all created to capture the show’s colorful personalities. Check out swatches of the full collection + my review below.

Am I Making Myself Claire?

Make no mistake...I’m liking this lilac.

I Do De-Claire!

Let me just say how frosty cool this soft rose is!

She’s Lily Something

Pink, sparkly stars...so Daddies’ Little Girl-y!

A Like-Haley Story...

Typical teenagers (and their moms!) will love this not-so-typical fuchsia.

My Jay or the Highway!

This trendy taupe is inflexibly cool. Period.

Stand by Your Manny

Be loyal to this periwinkle blue.

Alex by the Books

Look smart in this seafoam green.

Haley Good Lookin’...

She’s cookin’ up plans for this pink super-glitter.

Basking in Gloria

This red-violet is the color of passion.

Luke of the Draw

Chances are you’ll love this gunmetal glitter.

A Phil’s Paradise

No fooling...this pewter is the real deal.

Candid Cameron

Call this teal just like you see it...gorgeous!

Back in My Gloria Days...

This voluptuous violet has still got it goin’ on!

What’s the Mitch-uation?

This cobalt blue demands an update.

Glow: I definitely like the variety of colors in this collection and I like that there's a perfect mixture of creme's, shimmers and glitters. My two favorites are I Do De-Claire! (a frosty pink) and Candid Cameron (a shimmery emerald green).

Glare: The formula in a few of the pastel shades and creme's is sort of patchy and takes quite a few coats to get fully opaque. Also, She’s Lily Something (the glitter with the pink sparkly stars) was pretty difficult to apply mainly because the stars had the tendency to clump together at the bottom of the bottle. I had to literally dig them out with the brush just to get a few out to photograph.

Would I Recommend It? Ehh there are no must-have shades for me and honestly I feel like I've seen a version of most of these polishes in previous collections. There's really nothing significant about it unless you're a super fan of the show and just want to add a few shades to your collection.

Where To Buy: The Modern Family Collection is currently available at various retailers nationwide. To purchase, find a location near you or to learn more please visit http://nicolebyopi.com.

Nicki Minaj Celebrates MAC Viva Glam in Los Angeles

2013-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Rapper, singer-songwriter, fashion risk-taker, and hip-hop’s reigning queen of MAC Viva Glam, Nicki Minaj has been spotted around town this week sporting her personalized Viva Glam duo of Lipstick and Lipglass in an all-new shade of pastel lavender pink. Nicki attended the 21st Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar Viewing Party this past Sunday wearing her new signature shade. I'm absolutely loving this look on her, the hair is super cute!

Minaj also stopped by the MAC Pro Store on Robertson Blvd. to greet some of her biggest fans, who were dressed in lavender to celebrate the newest Viva Glam lip color.

Every cent of the selling price of MAC Viva Glam Lipstick and Lipglass goes toward helping women, men and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Viva Glam Nicki 2 Lipstick and Lipglass retail for $15.00 US each.

Hard Candy Nail Lacquer Introduces 5 New Collections for Spring 2013

2013-02-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

Winter is wrapping up and color is beginning to pop everywhere. From the runways to the cosmetic aisles of Walmart the story is color and Hard Candy's new collection – set to roll out immediately – tells a tale of "Poppin Pigments" and shades that will have you "All Lid Up!"

What you will be interested in is the 45 (!!!) new shades of Nail Lacquer that Hard Candy is launching. 5 new collections. 9 shades in each. Glitter, Chrome, Rich tones – something for everyone! Not only will nail aficionados fall for the colors but they will also flip for the price of $3.97 each!

Crushed Chrome Collection. Luxurious and timeless hues embellished with a golden textured finish. This collection boasts refinement and sophistication and is infused with a vivacious luster.

Itsy Glitzy Collection. Intense, illuminating, and incandescent hues saturated with the richest and most extreme mica and glitter. Inspired from the runway and now at your fingertips.

Crystal Confetti Collection. A unique collection based on artistic expression. Flourishing, adventurous, full coverage shades with various particle sizes and creative textures. Graffiti is revolutionary; it's an outlet to create public art. Now take this artistic and creative expression to your nails.

Candy Sprinkles Collection. Suspended in a clear top coat, shimmery flecks sparkle brilliantly with different shapes of shiny glitter. Candy Sprinkles is a fabulous top coat over any color.

Glitteratzi Collection. The combination of confident opposites and intimate tonalities mixed with the right amount of sparkle creates enthusiasm for the vitality of life. The hues are natural and are becoming more evolved and colored. Tasteful tones with all the personality to satisfy every trend setter.

The Hard Candy collection is exclusively available at Walmart and on walmart.com. In addition to the cosmetics brand Hard Candy now offers customers a line of apparel and eyeglass frames. The brand can be found on Facebook @Hard Candy; Twitter @HeresHardCandy; Pinterest @ItsHardCandy and on Instagram @HardCandyLife.

Own The Look | Stars Step Out In Style at the 2013 Oscars + Best Dressed Picks

2013-02-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Last night all of Hollywood's favorite celebrities walked the red carpet at the 85th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California. The night was filled with wonderful performances and recognition of some of this years best movies, actors, writers and directors. I'll admit I usually enjoy the red carpet arrivals WAY more than the actual show because I love seeing the effortlessly stylish as well as the fashionably awkward celebs! Surprisingly enough this time around I had a lot more fashion favorites than fails. Check out a few of my personal picks for best dressed of the night.

Kelly Rowland @ 2013 Oscars

Listen, Kelly can simply do no wrong in my book. She looked gorgeous in a black and white asymmetrical gown by Donna Karen. I also loved her soft hint of pink lipstick though I can't say that I'm completely feeling her hairstyle.

Kelly Rowland @ 2013 Oscars

Kerry is definitely one of my official girl crushes, oh how I adore her! She shined bright in a beautiful studded and embellished gown with a coral bottom by Miu Miu.

Charlize Theron @ 2013 Oscars

A prime example of when simplicity meets perfection! Charlize looked amazing in an all white gown by Christian Dior. Her pixie haircut is everything, she's so cute!

Halle Berry @ 2013 Oscars

Halle never gets it wrong. While the dress didn't necessarily wow me she still manages to make it work. The forever youthful actress looked effortlessly gorgeous in Marchesa.

Jennifer Hudson @ 2013 Oscars

The moment I caught a first glimpse at JHud's gown I was literally wowed. I thought she looked absolutely stunning in her blue embellished gown by Roberto Cavalli. Her performance was amazing as always as well.

Nancy O'Dell @ 2013 Oscars

I got the blues...the sweet blues that is ;-) I absolutely love this dress but what I love more is a woman who isn't afraid to burst into some color on the red carpet. Nancy looked so radiant wearing an ombre blue gown by Chagoury Couture.

Zoe Saldana @ 2013 Oscars

Another one of my girl crushes ^_^ I saw a lot of mixed reviews on Zoe's overall look but I actually think it works so well for her. She looked fresh and blossomed wearing Alexis Mabille.

Kelly Osbourne @ 2013 Oscars

My pick for best dressed of the night definitely caught me off guard but the girl who takes the crown is Kelly Osbourne! I absolutely loved her dress and it flattered her so well. She wore a black strappy and studded gown by Tony Ward.

Spring Giveaway:: Win a $100 MAC, Sephora, or Ulta Gift Card of Your Choice!

2013-02-24T23:59:00.000-05:00

I've been having so much spring fever lately! I'm already painting my nails fun shades and pulling out bright colors in my closet. In anticipation of warmer weather and this Spring's beauty and fashion trends a few of my fellow beauty bloggers and I have teamed up to offer our readers a fabulous $100 Gift Card Giveaway for Spring! That's right, one lucky winner will receive a $100 MAC, Sephora, or Ulta Gift Card of your choice. Entering is easy, just use the widget below for a chance to win.

If you are unable to see the entry form below, please view the website from a desktop or laptop instead of a mobile device. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Avon Partners with Fergie, Introducing New Fragrance Viva by Fergie

2013-02-20T15:14:00.000-05:00

The Scent
Feminine. Empowered. Unconventional. Viva by Fergie is a sexy contradiction of captivating cool herbs spiked with fierce lavender and intriguing vetiver. A fragrance for women who want to live life on their own terms, inspired by one of today’s most empowering women, Fergie.

The Inspiration
With Viva by Fergie, you can channel the confident and empowered sexiness of singer, actress, model and icon, Fergie. The latest collaboration between Avon and the award-winning artist, Viva by Fergie is designed to empower the fearless woman within, celebrate feminine contrasts and live outside the bounds. A sexy, spirited and seductive fragrance, Viva by Fergie epitomizes the strength and independence of its namesake.

Fergie
Since first stepping in front of a crowd at the beginning of her career, Fergie has vowed to live life to the fullest—and live it on her own terms. Poised, determined, and ready to take on the world, Fergie has always listened to her instincts and trusted herself, helping her become the woman she is today. With Viva by Fergie, the musician’s fans are emboldened to seize the day and live by their own rules—just like Fergie herself.

Since 2009, Fergie has partnered with Avon, creating fragrances such as Outspoken and Outspoken Intense and supporting the causes of the Avon Foundation for Women. Fergie’s debut scent, Outspoken, remains the number one fragrance launch in Avon history. Fergie was awarded the 2011 FiFi ® New Fragrance Celebrity of the Year Award. This award recognizes a celebrity whose very first fragrance has enjoyed instant success with the consumer and brought recognition to the fragrance category.

The Notes
Captivating Cool Herbs Luscious greens and captivating herbs create a cool effect that invigorates and refreshes the senses. Fierce Lavender Fresh with floral, minty and spicy undertones, fierce lavender delivers a modern contrast between masculine and feminine notes Intriguing Vetiver One of the most beautiful woody notes, intriguing vetiver is wrapped in sweet leathery undertones adding depth and sensuality to
the fragrance.

Viva by Fergie ($30.00) will be available in February 2013 exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.

Rihanna Partners with MAC, Debuts RiRi Hearts MAC Collection for 2013

2013-02-20T03:08:00.002-05:00

What can I say? She's a rebel by nature and unapologetic. Whether you love or hate her, there's no denying that she continues to set trends in every aspect of the word. I personally happen to love her, how can you not respect someone for being their true authentic self? In the fashion and beauty world I believe that those very qualities are what makes her so magnetic, brands love celebrities with appeal, individuality and a little fearlessness mixed in never hurts ;-)

I'm excited to learn that MAC Cosmetics has announced their upcoming collaboration with Rihanna, introducing the RiRi Hearts MAC Collection for 2013. While only one promo picture has surfaced thus far, the partnership will consist of four color collections due out later this year. Up first will be MAC RiRi Woo, which is a color inspired by Ruby Woo and will coincide with her upcoming May 4th and 5th concerts. The shade will be sold online and at Rihanna concerts.

The summer collection will be sold online, which includes two additional lipsticks, Lustre Drops, and a blush duo. The third will be in stores for fall and feature sixteen products, such as lipsticks, a Lipglass version of RiRi Woo, two eyeshadow palettes, and false lashes. The final installment will be in-stores in time for the holidays with ten products, like nail polish, a makeup bag, and more lipsticks. RiRi Woo will be sold in all four collections.

I'm so ready to get a glimpse at the rest of the line! To learn more about the collection and MAC's collaboration with Rihanna, check out the full article here.

Intraceuticals: The Foundation to a Youthful Glow

2013-02-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

Let's face it, we've all been there; it's the night before your special event and you're stressed about everything being perfect. Well, there's one thing that should be the least of your worries and that is your skin. Our faces are a personal canvas that speak to the world, which is why I believe in taking care of your skin to help retain a youthful glow.

Recently I had the wonderful opportunity to visit my local Spa Nordstrom where I was introduced to a unique line of spa treatments and complimentary skin care products called Intraceuticals. Intraceuticals is an innovative signature skin treatment with a breakthrough technology that uses oxygen and hyaluronic acid to promote the delivery of specially formulated serums to the skin. While there I also got to meet and chat with Celebrity Makeup Artist and Intraceuticals Brand Ambassador, Gina Brooke. I was especially excited to meet Gina because I am a fan of her artistry. She's created flawless looks for many celebrities over the years and continues to bring the best out in her clients natural beauty.

While chatting with Gina, what caught my attention the most is her passion for the Intraceuticals brand. Gina's philosophy is that with makeup, in order to achieve a flawless finish you must first start with a good canvas which is your skin. In the beauty and entertainment industry celebrities are constantly surrounded by bright lights and high definition cameras which show every crevice of their skin and can be unflattering if the surface underneath the makeup isn't healthy.

Intraceuticals has created quite a buzz among celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Naomi Campbell, Fergie, Rachel Zoe, Stacy London and Robin Thicke (yes, there are guys who love it too!). While tons of celebs are raving about it, you'll be glad to know that Intraceuticals is a product that anyone can use.

During my visit I got the chance to experience an Intraceuticals facial first hand. What's most unique about the oxygen treatment is that results are noticeable immediately and the procedure is simple and non-intrusive.While receiving my treatment the esthetician first cleansed my skin ensuring that it was free of makeup, dirt, and oils. She then started the treatment on half of my face so I could compare the results. The next step was applying a light amount of the rejuvenation serum which is packed with vitamins A, C, and E as well as hyaluronic acid and peptides (which all target common skin issues) Lastly, pressurized oxygen was applied to small sections of my face which worked to penetrate deep into my skin. Once the treatment was over I was given a mirror to compare the results of my skin including the treated side and the none treated side. Right away I noticed the difference. My face was glowing, my skin looked and felt smoother, I felt refreshed and I could tell a huge difference in the size of my pores!

Intraceuticals also has a line of at home products which rejuvenate and hydrate the skins natural texture. Over the past 2 weeks I've had the chance to play around with several of the products including the rejuvenation line and the boosters. I've noticed a significant change in the smoothness of my skin and the overall brightness of my complexion. What I love most about these products is that they are very lightweight and absorb quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling heavy; and to someone with oily skin like me I can truly appreciate that. I also like that the ingredients aren't harsh at all and are even suitable for sensitive skin types.

Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Collection, facts + benefits.

Rejuvenate Hydration Gel continuously replenishes hydration to the skin and is designed to be applied twice daily after the Rejuvenate Daily Serum. Notice new found density and see how quickly skin gains a luminous smooth look and feel.

Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream The finishing touch is a thin application of Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream. This nourishing lightweight cream is designed to protect and defend against environmental stressors and address the visible signs of aging including: tightness and dehydration, fine lines and wrinkles and the loss of elasticity and firmness. Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream provides the perfect base for makeup application.

Rejuvenate Daily Serum The next best thing to an Intraceuticals Treatment is a twice daily application of Rejuvenate Daily Serum. It acts like a primer for the skin to maximize lasting hydration and keep your skin looking healthy and fresh all day long. This first step visibly revives and revitalizes skin hydration for enhanced volume and defined facial contour.

Intraceuticals Booster, facts + benefits.

Antioxidant+ Booster revitalizes and balances dull, stressed skin with exceptionally powerful natural antioxidants sourced from the Australian Rainforest. The Antioxidant Booster defends against free radical damage and also addresses visible puffiness and dark circles around the eye area. Perfect for tired or travel weary skin.

Collagen+ Booster provides a potent cocktail of collagen messenger peptides to promote renewal and rejuvenation and helps to restore volume and tightness to skin that has lost its elasticity, tone and density.

Vitamin C+3 Booster helps strengthen, protect and support healthy skin with 3 synergistic forms of Vitamin C. Benefits all skin types but especially skin with signs of premature aging, irregular tone and sun damage.

Vitamin A+ Booster clarifies and refines the appearance of skin prone to blemishes, visible pores, sun damage, rough texture or deep wrinkles with a new “release on demand” form of Vitamin A for increased potency, enhanced product stability and reduced irritation.

Intraceuticals+ Booster Clinic Treatments
are currently available at Spa Nordstrom Atlanta at $245; for a 90 minute session. The at home products range from $29-$149. To learn more about Intraceuticals please visit http://intraceuticals.com.

OPI Celebrates Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful with Limited Edition Nail Lacquers + NEW Liquid Sand Hue

2013-02-09T00:33:00.000-05:00

OPI announces the launch of six limited edition nail lacquers and a new Liquid Sand™ shade, inspired by Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful. With an all-star cast that includes James Franco and Michelle Williams, this highly-anticipated film opens in theaters on March 8, 2013.

“OPI is very excited to take this fantastical journey with Disney,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “Inspired by the magic of Oz The Great and Powerful, this SoftShades collection captures the whimsy seen in the film, from glittery shades packed with white, gold and silvery iridescent confetti – Lights of Emerald City, When Monkeys Fly! and Which is Witch? – to soft neutrals in white, beige and pink – Don’t Burst My Bubble, Glints of Glinda and I Theodora You.

“The new Liquid Sand nail lacquer – What Wizardry is This? – features OPI’s groundbreaking technology for a textured, matte finish infused with reflective sparkle,” adds Weiss-Fischmann. “This rich taupe hue was designed for James Franco’s character, the great Wizard of Oz, and is sure to make a bold statement this spring.”

With a mix of soft crème and warm glitter shades, the line is ideal for layering to create rich, complex looks. In addition to the Liquid Sand nail lacquer in What Wizardry is This?, the promotion includes:

Lights of Emerald City

White confetti adds city girl flair and style to nails.

Don’t Burst My Bubble

Don’t wake me...I’m dreaming about puffy clouds of white.

When Monkeys Fly!

I’m simply bananas for this gold confetti.

Glints of Glinda

Only a good witch could turn beige from meek to chic.

Which is Witch?

Is this silver glitter with iridescent sparkle or the other way around?

I Theodora You

This adorable, sheer pink is bewitching on you.

What Wizardry is This?

Liquid Sand

As with all OPI nail lacquers, the shades inspired by Oz The Great and Powerful contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde, and feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush for the ultimate in application.

This limited edition promotion will be available beginning March 2013 at Professional Salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, jcp Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, and ULTA, for $9.00 ($10.95 CAN) suggested retail for each nail lacquer.

For more information, please call 800-341-9999 or visit www.opi.com. Follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTSand become a Facebook fan!

Giving Back: Life's Most Essential Gift

2013-01-31T02:50:00.000-05:00

It almost feels surreal to wrap my mind around the fact that I will be thirty years old at the end of the year. My how time flies! As I reflect on my life I always think of the influential people who have helped shape me into who I am today. Two women who continue to inspire me are my mother and my grandmother. They both are beautiful reflections of unwavering strength, sacrifice and selflessness. What I admire the most is that I’ve seen them both go through life changing challenges which may have affected them physically yet neither of them allowed life’s hiccups to alter the essence of who they truly are.

My grandmother a breast cancer survivor and my mother diagnosed with Ataxia (a neurological disorder which effects coordination and mobility) have both shown me the true definition of determination. Over the years I’ve watched them not only exemplify strength but also offer encouragement to those in need of it.

They have each been a huge inspiration to me which is why I am passionate about giving back when I can. Whether I’m devoting my time, charitable contributions or just a word of encouragement; I know that the greatest reward to me is brightening someone else’s day. Giving back is an essential part of life and the best part is that anyone can be a blessing to someone else regardless of circumstance.

Because a great mentor can make all the difference, Coca-Cola has teamed up with Magic Johnson, Common and Debra Lee of BET Networks to give four young people the apprenticeship experience of a lifetime. Visit MCR.com/PayItForward to nominate an aspiring youth and help pay it forward to the next generation. You'll also be automatically entered for a chance to win $5,000 for each nomination you make (up to five nominations per person).

Own The Look: Kerry Washington's 2013 Golden Globe Style Report + Hair & Makeup Details

2013-01-14T00:21:00.000-05:00

I adore Kerry Washington! I haven't seen Django Unchained yet which won Best Screenplay in last nights Golden Globe Awards but I am a HUGE fan of her new hit series Scandal on ABC! If you haven't seen the show yet then you need to get into it, seriously. I saw a lot of mixed reviews about Kerry's red carpet style at the Globes but I actually loved the entire look.

Kerry Washington epitomized chic at the Golden Globe Awards with a nude Miu Miu gown and blunt bangs. Makeup artist Carola Gonzalez complemented Kerry's look with a bold eye—purple was the star shade—and a muted lip.

Kerry's face breakdown by Lancôme.

FACE

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation in Suede N 450
NEW Lancôme Blush in Pommettes D'Amour

EYES

Lancôme Color Design Infinité 24H Eye Shadow in Evermore Lilac
Lancôme Color Design Eye Shadow in Mochaccino
Lancôme Artliner in Smoke
Lancôme Hypnôse Star Mascara

LIPS

Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in 500 Blush

Kerry's hair breakdown using John Frieda.

So before you pause your game of binguez check out how Celebrity hairstylist Marcus Francis was inspired by Kerry Washington's sequined, structured gown. Below are the three easy steps he took to create her sleek and classic look, using products from John Frieda. While you're checking out Kerry's hairstyle

Step 1 – Prep

Spray Frizz-Ease 3-Day Straight Semi-Permanent Styling Spray ($9.99 at drugstores), throughout wet hair and comb through to distribute the product evenly.

Step 2 – Style

Blowdry hair straight. Take a flat iron and straighten hair section by section--the heat of flat iron will activate 3-Day Straight, to ensure sleek style that lasts all night long.

Step 3 – Perfect

Smooth Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon Flawless Finishing Crème ($5.99) throughout hair to give a smooth, shiny finish.

OPI Mariah Carey Collection Swatches + Review

2013-01-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was very interested to see what type of colors OPI would include in the new Mariah Carey collection after hearing about it. With this collection OPI also introduced their brand new Liquid Sand nail polish which are described as having a pebbled finish with light hints of shimmer and fine glitters. Check out swatches of the entire collection and my full review below.

A Butterfly Moment

This sophisticated and frosty tan nude has us all a-flutter

Anti-bleak

This deep, creamy purple will lift your spirits

Sprung

Fall hopelessly in love with this shimmery copper

Pink Yet Lavender

This pink glitter with lavender shimmer has superstar shine!

The Impossible

This matte fuchsia with star confetti will never give up

Can’t Let Go

Hold onto this matte purple with dazzling sparkle

Get Your Number

Wearing this matte blue with sparkles is a great call

Stay the Night

Make it last in this matte black with red glints

Glow: This is a pretty small collection which I'm happy about because I'm somewhat over large celebrity collections for now. The shades consist of 2 creme's, 1 shimmer, 1 glitter and 4 liquid sand polishes. My favorite of the 4 regular polishes is A Butterfly Moment which is a nude'ish pink, it's such a lovely everyday type of shade. I really like the glitter in the liquid sand shades with Get Your Number being my favorite out of the four. The liquid sand polishes take about 2 coats to get fully opaque but also look nice with simply one coat for a more subtle effect.

Glare: Although I like the liquid sand formula and overall idea, I am a little disappointed with the color choices. However I do suspect that OPI will more than likely release more shades soon.

Would I Recommend It? ehh. I'm on the fence. I only have a couple of favorites from the collection. As usual the formulas are consistent and great like all OPI polishes. There are no must-have shades for me with this collection.

Where To Buy: Mariah Carey by OPI collection is currently available at various retailers nationwide. They retail for about $8.50-$9 each. To purchase, learn more or to locate a retailer near you please visit www.opi.com.

Last Minute Holiday Gift Idea For Her: Liz Earle Daily Skincare Duo + Review

2012-12-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

Winter is my absolute favorite time of year but the cold weather can sometimes be brutal on my skin. I always like to keep several products in rotation because my skin changes so much. Sometimes I'm extremely oily and other times I have dry skin that peels around my nose (not cute!) Whatever the case I always like to be prepared. Liz Earle has an awesome skincare line that's perfect for all skin types and can remedy many common issues. I actually reviewed a few other products from her collection before and you can check that out here.

With last minute holiday gifts in mind, I thought the Liz Earle Daily Skincare Duo would be the perfect gift for the girl who likes to primp and keep her skin flawless! The duo comes with two essential Liz Earle skincare products which include the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser and Instant Boost Skin Tonic -both formulated to work together to promote a well balanced complexion.

Liz Earle Daily Skincare Duo

Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser and Instant Boost Skin Tonic

Glow: The packaging is so cute! I love that it comes gift-ready which takes the pressure off having to wrap it if you don't want to. I'll start with the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, I've reviewed this before and love it just as much then as I do now. The cleanser comes with 2 white muslin cloths which are used to wipe away the residue after you massage the cleanser onto your face and neck. The formula is like a creamy lotion and once I wiped it away my skin immediately felt smoother and I could even see the dead skin cells left behind on the muslin cloth (ew!) The cool thing is that the cloths are washable so you can continue to use them. The Instant Boost Skin Tonic is a non-drying toner which gently smooths, refreshes and brightens the skin. It also has a soft floral scent to it which I really love.

Glare: Honestly I haven't tried a Liz Earle product yet that I haven't liked. They all work really well and these are no different. The only thing that I wish came with this set is a moisturizer but I guess you can't have it all ;-)

Would I Recommend It? I would! The duo makes a great gift and also keeps your skin looking youthful and clear, what more could a girl ask for?

Where To Buy: The Liz Earle Daily Skincare Duo is limited edition and currently retails for $45.50. I'm not sure how long the gift set will be available (more than likely just through the holidays) but the good news is that both products will still be available to purchase individually because they are part of the permanent collection. To learn more or to purchase please visit www.lizearle.com.

Last Minute Holiday Gift For Your Guy: 007 James Bond Fragrance + Review

2012-12-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it? Christmas is only a few days away! If you're one of those last minute shoppers and you need ideas during the holiday rush then I've got the perfect suggestion on what to gift your guy. There's absolutely nothing better than a man who smells good. Whether it's your significant other or just a guy you want to do something special for - the brand new James Bond fragrance is the perfect gift to put a smile on his face.

In celebration of the James Bond film franchise's 50th anniversary the world's first fragrance dedicated to the legendary British spy is born. James Bond 007 is a classic and unmistakably masculine scent with a fresh, sophisticated twist. Blended with vetyver, lavender and crisp apple for a fresh and powerful experience– the ultimate scent for the modern man.

James Bond 007 Fragrance

Glow: I'll start with the packaging. I love that they kept the design simple, classic and sleek - much like James Bond. The bottle sorta reminds me of a flask and what's unique about it is that the top isn't detachable but has a cool swivel twist cap that reveals the nozzle of the fragrance, I thought this was a nice touch because it's very reminiscent of Bond's many state-of-the-art gadgets in which he's known for. And of course the design wouldn't be complete without the signature 007 emblem embedded on the front. The scent of the fragrance is sensual, spicy and has a subtle edge to it -it's very enticing.

Glare: None! I love the fresh scent and honestly it smells so good I'd probably wear it if it wasn't for a man lol! I actually hope they make a Bond Girl fragrance in the near future ;-)

Would I Recommend It? Yessss!! This is my first time reviewing a males fragrance so I wasn't really sure how this would go but surprisingly it wasn't really a big deal lol. It's a really nice scent and whether you're a James Bond fan or just in the market of finding a nice cologne then this is definitely a good one to try. I'm actually gifting this to my dad (he loves it) and he's also a huge James Bond fan ^_^

Where To Buy: The James Bond 007 fragrance retails for $40 and is currently available for purchase at Kohl's and kohls.com.

MAC Glamour Daze Collection for Holiday 2012 Swatches & Review

2012-12-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to get this post out for a few weeks now but life has caught up with me! I just finished school last month and now I have a part-time gig O_O lol! I've been trying not to go too crazy on holiday related products and posts because most seasonal themed items are limited edition and trying to get them published BEFORE they're sold out can be a bit overwhelming.

Anywho, MAC released a couple holiday collections last month and I ordered a few items from Glamour Daze for Holiday 2012. It's a really pretty collection with a nice selection of very wearable and versatile shades. They also have a few gift sets that would make fab stocking stuffer's ^_^ Check out a few pics and swatches of a few of the items I purchased below, along with my review.

MAC Outrageously Fun & Dramatic Encounter Lipstick

Swatches

Outrageously Fun & Dramatic Encounter

MAC Outrageously Fun Lipstick

MAC Dramatic Encounter Lipstick

MAC Flight of Fancy Lipglass

MAC Kohl Power Eye Pencil

Feline

MAC Nail Lacquer

In The Limelight & Everything That Glitters

MAC Glamour Daze In The Limelight Nail Lacquer

MAC Glamour Daze Everything That Glitters Nail Lacquer

Glow: I'll start with the lipsticks and gloss. I'll admit I was a bit overly anxious when buying a couple of these. Normally before I place an order I wait until I see swatches of the colors from other blogs to determine whether or not I really like the shades. Unfortunately I didn't do that this time and was a little disappointed when I saw Outrageously Fun in person. It's way brighter than I had anticipated and I just really didn't think that the shade would work well with my skin-tone. It's sort of a neon/pastel pink, it's really pretty but I'm still skeptical on whether or not I like it on me. Dramatic Encounter lipstick is a maroon with brownish undertones - I like it but I'm not sure that I'd wear it on a regular basis. Flight of Fancy lipglass has a wine colored shade with subtle shimmer and I can definitely see myself wearing this more so than the lipsticks. The Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Feline is a deep, rich black which in the photos I'm wearing on my waterline. The 2 nail lacquers In The Limelight and Everything That Glitters I am absolutely in love with! I sorta have this thing for holo-glitters and pastel greens now and both are really beautiful.

Glare: I don't know if it's just me or just the brand but I've noticed that some of the formulas on lighter shades such as Outrageously Fun don't go on as smooth as other shades. It's hard to explain but the texture feels kinda crumbly? and just hard to get a smooth, even, coverage. This is my first time trying an eyeliner from MAC and I must say that I'm not too impressed with Feline. I hope their other liners are better. This one smudges and doesn't really stay in place on me. I've definitely had better experiences with drugstore brands than this. I do love both nail lacquers and the formula is pretty decent; however I don't think they're worth the price. $17.50 is riDAMNdiculous for a brand that caters more so to makeup than polish. MAC's regular priced polishes are $16. I'm not sure what the extra $1.50 was for with these, maybe because they're limited edition? Either way both prices are too high. I'm a polish connoisseur and have seen much better quality in brands that are half that price. Soooo yeah, I surely own't be buying MAC's polishes by the masses.

Would I Recommend It? You know, the collection is really cute and I am pretty satisfied with most of the items I chose. The entire Glamour Daze collection has a nice selection of soft and earthy shades. If you like sparkle Everything That Glitters is a must-have. Other than that there's really nothing strikingly special to me.

Where To Buy: Glamour Daze is a limited edition collection for the holidays and because of that, the availability of some of the items is scarce or sold out. To see more items from the collection and what's still available please visit www.maccosmetics.com.

Nicole by OPI Selena Gomez Collection Review + Swatches

2012-12-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. Just about everyone and their cousin has an OPI collection these days but hey that seems to be the in-thing now. Whenever I get word about new celeb collections I'm always anxious to see the shades; mainly because I like to see how much of the celebs personality/style the brand was able to incorporate into it. I can't really say that I'm a Selena Gomez fan because I don't really keep up with her - she's cute, fun. and seems relatable and surprisingly the collection seems to embody those characteristics nicely. And guess what? I like it way better than Bieber's collection...heehee ;-) Check out swatches of the entire collection and my full review below.

Pretty in Plum

This picture-perfect purple is a genuine beauty.

Stars at Night

Star light, star bright...confetti-silver nails tonight!

Love Song

Fall head-over-heels for this true purple.

Heavenly Angel

This iridescent confetti gives me wings.

Hit the Lights

This not-so-mellow yellow has got stage presence.

Mi Fantasia

This purple-aqua glitter is the stuff dreams are made of.

Selena

This fresh, young peach will make your heart sing

Inner Sparkle

Let this light pink glitter shine through!

Naturally

Who wouldn’t want this pure pink dream?

Kissed at Midnight

This romantic gold glitter is perfect any time.

Spring Break

The perfect hot pink for the perfect hot vacation!

Sweet Dreams

This violet-teal is a dream-come-true.

Scarlett

This shimmery red-violet is leading lady lovely.

Confetti Fun

Nothing says “party!” like a shower of color.

Glow: The collection consists of 14 shades including 7 creams/shimmers and 7 glitters. What I love most about these shades is that there's a good balance of colors that are complimentary to every season. There are brights for summer/spring and also warm shades perfect for the fall. Out of all 14 polishes the self titled Selena is my absolute favorite, it's described as a fresh peach but has more of a coral tone which translates beautifully. As always with Nicole by OPI the formula is pretty consistent, goes on smooth and the majority got opaque with only 2 coats. You probably know by now that I'm not a huge fan of glitters but what I do like about these is that each can be used as a top coat to give an extra bit of flair. I hate that my camera doesn't really capture the essence of each glitter but they all have multiple dimensions to them in terms of shape, size and color.

Glare: I don't really have a lot of cons but my least favorite glitter is Stars at Night which is confetti based, it just doesn't seem to do it for me. Another con is the formula in Hit the Lights (the yellow) it seemed a little bit off and goopy and also required 3 coats to get fully opaque. I sort of expected that though because I always have these issues with shades such as yellow and white.

Would I Recommend It? As far as the entire collection, it really depends on your preferences. I prefer the cream shades over the glitters. Overall I think it's a really pretty collection and very girly. The only must-have shade for me is ironically Selena.

Where To Buy: Selena Gomez lacquers will be available at various retailers nationwide January 2013 and will retail for $7.99 each. For more information, visit nicolebyopi.com.

New Hair: Senegalese Twists

2012-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm sort of predictable when it comes to my hair, meaning it's a rarity that I try new things. But everyone needs to change things up every once in awhile so I figured I was long overdue for one. Since being natural I've been wearing my hair curly versus straight and lately between battling frizz and just plain laziness I haven't really felt like doing much to it. I haven't really tried many protective styles other than that weave that didn't go so well, so two weeks ago I made a spontaneous decision to get twists.

The last time I had braids was literally when I was like 12 lol. I knew I didn't really want braids which is why I decided to go with Senegalese Twists which like braids can be done in a variety of sizes and styles. I've only had them for about two weeks now and I like them so far and have gotten tons of compliments. I haven't decided how long I plan to keep them just yet but knowing me it won't be very long, I'll probably have them out before the new year which is why I decided to go ahead and share a few pics! It's definitely a low maintenance type of style and my only venture now is trying to find cute ways to wear them ^_^

Senegalese Twists

What are some of your favorite low maintenance hairstyles?

Nicole by OPI and Twentieth Century Fox Introduces New Modern Family Collection

2012-12-14T04:07:00.000-05:00

Nicole by OPI, in partnership with Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products, launches 14 new nail lacquers inspired by ABC’s award-winning comedy, Modern Family. The nail line features shades created to capture the show’s colorful personalities, from a classic taupe named after family patriarch Jay, to a sparkly pink hue fitting for toddler Lily.

“Modern Family is not only one of the funniest shows on television, it features a great ensemble cast of rich characters that inspired a range of shades, from pastel hues like sea foam green and periwinkle to brighter colors of cobalt and red-violet,” remarks Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “From studious Alex to bombshell Gloria, to classic (and neurotic) Claire, to flirty Haley, there are shades to represent each of these uniquely fabulous women – and everyone else in the blended family.

“The Nicole consumer embraces the same spirit of diversity and individuality that’s apparent on the show,” explainsWeiss-Fischmann. “The colors inspired by Modern Family offer a perfect way to express that spirit!”

Modern Family is produced by Twentieth Century Fox Television and licensed through Fox Consumer Products. Jeffrey Godsick, President of Fox Consumer Products added, “Modern Family is a series that has a massive following. In partnering with Nicole by OPI, we’re not only able to reach our show’s large fan base, but deliver a product that captures the trend-forward elements and unique characteristics of the series.”

The Modern Family Collection includes:

Am I Making Myself Claire?

Make no mistake...I’m liking this lilac.

I Do De-Claire!

Let me just say how frosty cool this soft rose is!

She’s Lily Something

Pink, sparkly stars...so Daddies’ Little Girl-y!

A Like-Haley Story...

Typical teenagers (and their moms!) will love this not-so-typical fuchsia.

My Jay or the Highway!

This trendy taupe is inflexibly cool. Period.

Stand by Your Manny

Be loyal to this periwinkle blue.

Alex by the Books

Look smart in this seafoam green.

Haley Good Lookin’...

She’s cookin’ up plans for this pink super-glitter.

Basking in Gloria

This red-violet is the color of passion.

Luke of the Draw

Chances are you’ll love this gunmetal glitter.

A Phil’s Paradise

No fooling...this pewter is the real deal.

Candid Cameron

Call this teal just like you see it...gorgeous!

Back in My Gloria Days...

This voluptuous violet has still got it goin’ on!

What’s the Mitch-uation?

This cobalt blue demands an update.

Nicole by OPI Nail Lacquers and Nail Treatments contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde. Nicole by OPIformulas are long-lasting, fast-drying, and salon-quality.

Modern Family lacquers will be available beginning January 2013 for $7.99 each at retailers including select Walmart, Target, CVS, Rite Aid, Kmart, Kroger, ULTA, H-E-B, Meijer and Duane Reade locations. In Canada, this line will be available for $10.99 each at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart Canada, Jean Coutu, Loblaw, and London Drug.

For more information, visit nicolebyopi.com. Follow Nicole by OPI on Twitter @NicoleByOPI and become a Facebook fan!

L'Oréal Paris Colour Caresse Lipstick in Violet Chiffon Review

2012-12-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

Earlier this year L'Oréal Paris introduced their new line of Colour Caresse Lipsticks that are specifically formulated to be highly pigmented and full of moisture - much like higher-end lipsticks just at a fraction of the cost. The entire line includes 16 revolutionary shades that are weightless on the lips and created with a custom blend of shiny oils which allows for clean, true color to shine through.

Lately I've been trying to step out of my comfort zones when it comes to lipstick shades. I have the tendency to gravitate toward darker earthy tones such as plums, browns and neutrals. Most recently I've been exploring with brighter shades such as pinks and lighter purples, so when I stumbled across L'Oréal's Violet Chiffon I knew I wanted to give it a spin! Check out a few pics and my full review below.

L'Oréal Paris Colour Caresse Lipstick in Violet Chiffon

Swatches

Glow: What I absolutely love about this lipstick is that it is very moisturizing! It has sort of a buttery feel to it and it has the perfect amount of gloss. It's also very pigmented and literally only took a couple strokes to get opaque. I have dark hued lips so finding a lipstick with enough pigment to get full coverage is always great! The formula is also weightless and very comfortable to wear. I have to be honest I didn't really think that I'd like this shade as much as I do but it's a very subtle purple with pink undertones and goes well with my skin-tone. I think this is a friendly shade for all complexions, it's soft and can definitely be worn as an everyday look or just for fun.

Glare: None! I love this lipstick and I think L'Oréal definitely got it right with these.

Would I Recommend It? I would! I actually plan on trying a few more shades from the collection. I think the quality is very decent for a drugstore brand.

Where To Buy: The lipsticks retail for $9.99 and are currently available at Ulta and various drugstores nationwide. To purchase or to learn more visit www.lorealparisusa.com .