La Jolie Folie

Honestly, what is all the hype about Mac eyeshadow?

2013-01-10T12:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, I did just ask that question.

I just got several Mac eyeshadows from my grandma who didn't want them. Obviously she wasn't impressed and is sticking to her Guerlain eyeshadow.

I've played around with them and swatched them. They're just not that pigmented. They fade even with a good primer. They're just not spectacular. I was expecting something that measures up to the hype Mac eyeshadows get around the beauty community. I didn't get that.

My Sleek eyeshadows, on the other hand, are much more impressive - for a fraction of the price.

Most of what I use these days are my Sleek palettes. I paid around $10 for each palette plus $10 international shipping. So for $50 I got 48 extremely soft, pigmented eyeshadows that blend like a dream and look gorgeous all day.

I also enjoy my Lorac and WetnWild eyeshadows much more than my Mac ones.

For $15, I could get one Mac shadow that just doesn't measure up to the quality of my Sleek eyeshadows.

This is why I've never spent my own money on Mac.

I would, however, spend more than that on Dior eyeshadow, because based on my own experience, Dior eyeshadows are the be-all-end-all.

So PLEASE, can someone please tell me what it is about Mac eyeshadows that makes them so "wonderful"?? I just don't get it!

Goodies from Bubbe!

2013-01-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

Hey guys!

You know how whenever you go to your grandparents' house, they always want to give you stuff?

I was up north over my winter break visiting family and got a bunch of stuff! My bubbe (grandma) always buys a ton of expensive makeup and never ends up using it all. I mean, this woman will not buy makeup unless it is from the department store or Macy's. She spends a lot of money and then she'll decide she doesn't like something or doesn't know how to use it.

One day I had spent the night at her house and she was showing me all the makeup she uses. She always compliments me on my makeup, especially the way I do my eye makeup.

So then she pulls out a whole shoebox of Mac and Lancome makeup. She says to me in her charming little French accent, "I don't know how to use this. Jessie, you are the expert."

I guess this is like a "haul" post, except I didn't buy any of this.

Estée Lauder Matte Perfecting Primer: makes my skin feel really silky but I don't know if it prolongs wear

Estée Lauder Double Wear Light Stay-in-Place foundation: a decent foundation

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Flawless Wear concealer: I really love this concealer! Great full coverage

Mac Eyeshadows: (L-R) Beautiful Iris, Brûlé, Haux, Mythology, Naked Lunch, Scene, Shale, Carefree (Pro Longwear eyeshadow)

Lancôme Color Design Eye Brightening All-in-One 5 Shadow & Liner Palette in Mauve Chérie

L'Oréal eyeshadow quad in Summer Dusk (these shadows are GREAT for my brown eyes!)

Brushes (L-R): Sephora Professionnel 45 mineral powder brush, Bobbi Brown blush brush, Sephora Professionnel 40 powder brush, Chanel 10 brush (angled blush brush that I've been using to contour)

Have you guys used any of these products? Love them? Hate them?

Back to class FOTD

2013-01-07T15:52:00.000-05:00

Hey guys!

Today marks the beginning of the spring semester for me. I got done with classes today at 1:10 pm so that was nice. I also broke out my brand new snow boots. The campus is still covered in snow and was quite chilly for me. The weather is definitely an adjustment for me, coming from the South.

This is the view of all the snow from my dorm room. It has melted minimally.

I was going to make this an OOTD post, too so I could show off my new snow boots but unfortunately I couldn't get any good pictures :(

This morning I wanted something quick, fairly simple, but really pretty so I could make a good impression on the first day.

Here's what I came up with:

Mind you, these pictures were taken after at least 4 hours of wear and lots of walking all over campus.

Here's what I used:

-Neutrogena Shine Control primer & foundation

-Palladio Rice Powder in Natural

-NYX bronzer in When Leopard Gets a Tan (contour)

-NYX blush in Pinched

-ELF eyeshadow primer in Golden

-Sleek Storm palette (shimmery pink shade in crease, dark bronze in outer third of the lid and along the outer half of the lower lash line, lightest golden champagne color in the inner portion of the lid and as a highlight under the brow)

-NYX JEP in French Fries along the upper and lower waterline

-ELF liquid liner

-L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black mascara

-LORAC Liquid Lipstick in Trendsetter

What do you guys like to wear on special days like this where you want to impress without looking too overdone?

So I hope you liked that! For those of you starting classes again, I wish you the best of luck! Stay warm my beauties!

I've got some more posts lining up for later this week!

XOXO, Jessie

Talk about 2012, 2013 and my blog

2013-01-01T15:24:00.000-05:00

Hey guys!

I know it has been entirely way too long since I've posted on here. I still log in everyday to read posts but I was just having difficulties in finding the time to devote to posting. Pictures take the longest time!

Well, 2012 is in the past now. I do want to recommit myself to this blog, because it has provided me with a really wonderful outlet for a hobby of mine, as well as let me take part in the amazing beauty blogger community.

So, here I will be sappy and cliché about 2012:

Let's see... I graduated high school, turned 18, started college, mourned the death of my dear grandfather, recommitted myself to my spiritual journey through Judaism, let go of my long distance love, made a ton of new friends, learned about myself, and HEY I GOT STRAIGHT A'S MY FIRST SEMESTER OF COLLEGE!

I would say it was a successful year and most definitely a year I will never forget. A significant portion of 2012 was this blog. So thank you for helping me to build my blog and make it all worth it.

Honestly, I have always thought of ideas for posts, etc. but never made them happen. I have so many hauls that I haven't shared with you. I do have a really great haul that I'm looking forward to sharing with you within the next week!

So I apologize for being neglectful and I hope that 2013 can bring great things to this blog.

In the meantime, stay beautiful my loves and thank you again for your support throughout 2012!

XOXO, Jessie

P.S. You can never miss a thing if you follow me on Twitter or Instagram ;) @jessiefrancaise

REVIEW: Neutrogena Shine Control line

2012-10-16T12:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

Today I have a collective review on the Neutrogena Shine Control line for you. I did not receive these for review, however I won them from a contest on Beauty Undercover.

I've been using them for quite a while now and I'm surprised that I haven't heard/read more about this line since it would seem as though a line of products claiming to control shine would have more hype, but after using them, I understand why...

The "secret ingredient" of this line is what Neutrogena calls a rice protein complex, which I guess is what is supposed to be controlling the shine.

It comes in a 1 ounce (30 mL - standard size) black squeezy bottle.

The primer's claims:

controls shine all day with or without makeup
extends the wear of makeup
matte finish
won't over dry skin or clog pores

The consistency is kind of creamy - it reminds me of the MUFE HD primer which I love so much. It has tiny gritty particles in it that go away as you smooth it into the skin. There is a slight scent that is probably from the rice protein, but nothing too overpowering.

Honestly, it just doesn't control my shine/oil as much as I expected it to. I have tried it with other foundations and it just didn't work as well as my Monistat chafing gel, which I didn't actually think worked until I compared it to this.

It did not extend the wear of my makeup to the point where I noticed anything. It didn't control shine.

It does have a matte finish and won't dry out your skin or clog pores.

I don't know how much this primer costs since I didn't actually buy it, but I think it's on the pricier end of drugstore primers. And I don't think it's worth it to get it, unless you really want to try.

The foundation comes in a bottle similar to Revlon Colorstay - glass bottle with no pump. 1 ounce or 30 mL

The foundation's claims:

8 hour shine control; won't over dry skin
Lightweight, breathable formula; natural look

This foundation is awful. It has a thick formula that is very hard to get out of the bottle. I have to keep the bottle stored upside down so that I can get product out of the bottle when I want to use it. It also has the gritty texture that blends out. It does have a natural finish with very light coverage, but I also feel like the coverage is splotchy. It just doesn't look all that great on my skin.

There is no way that this foundation can control shine for 8 hours. It lasts a few hours on my skin before my skin starts looking gross. I feel like the primer and powder will extend the life of this foundation, but I wouldn't even want to try wearing this without those two along with it.

I'm just not a fan of this foundation and I don't think it's really worth your money. Revlon Colorstay doesn't claim to control shine, yet it does a much better job than this Neutrogena foundation.

The setting powder comes in a circular compact with a mirror and puff. I don't use the powder puff to use this product. You get 0.37 ounces or 10.4 grams of product.

The powder's claims:

Instantly eliminates shine for a fresh look that lasts all day
Layers invisibly over makeup
Matte finish

This powder is probably the gem of the Shine Control line. I actually just hit pan on it today.

It will eliminate the shine. I have used it to both set my foundation and touch up my foundation throughout the day and it will get rid of shine.

It is a translucent powder, so it does layer invisibly. I haven't noticed it looking cakey at all. It also does have a matte finish.

I wouldn't say that this powder will extend the wear of my foundation when I use it as a setting powder. I have other powders that don't claim to be setting powders or shine control powders and they do a better job than this one. But I do think it's a pretty decent powder if you're looking for a translucent powder to set your makeup with and to use as a touch-up.

Depending on how much you want to spend, I would say go for this product.

And now for pictures of me with the products... This is the first time I'm posting my naked face on this blog!!

To the left is my completely naked face and to the right is me with the primer on. Nothing really noticeably different.

To the left is my skin with the foundation on and to the right is with powder on top (of the primer and foundation).

I don't think you can really tell the coverage from the photos, but I would say it is a sheer to medium coverage. The powder, although translucent, does manage to make the foundation look like it covers a little better. I'm wearing the foundation in Classic Ivory 10.

OVERALL, I think if you want to try this line, go ahead, but I don't think it's the best. The powder was the best I tried from the line and it still was pretty mediocre.

Have you tried any of these products? What's your opinion?

Fall jewel-toned eyes with Sleek Bad Girl

2012-10-12T12:45:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

So if you've been keeping up with the latest makeup trends for this season, you would know jewel-toned eyes are very in for the fall! This includes emeralds, amethysts, etc.

Here's the look I created! These pictures were taken right when the sun was beginning to go down, so it was hard to get good lighting. Sorry about that!

Products Used:
Neutrogena Shine Control primer
Neutrogena Shine Control foundation in Classic Ivory
Neutrogena Shine Control translucent setting powder
ELF eyeshadow primer in Pearl
Sleek Bad Girl palette (Intoxicated all over the lid, Envy along the lower lash line and in the outer corner, Gullible under the eyebrow, Innocence in the inner corner/tear duct)
WetnWild Color Icon black eyeliner (waterline)
ELF liquid eyeliner
Lorac Multiplex 3D Lashes mascara
NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder
NYX bronzer in When Leopard Gets a Tan
NYX blush in Pinched
Mary Kay lipliner pencil in Primrose
Ulta lip plumper

I hope you guys enjoyed this! If you try out the jewel-toned trend, I would love to see the looks you create!

Also, thank you again to my newest followers, as well as those of you who have been following me for the long haul. Your support means so much to me!

It's a red lipstick and fur kind of day

2012-10-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

I thought I would do a quick post for you guys today on a quick look that I threw together for going to class.

The Maybelline Color Tattoos are so simple to slap on my lids with a little eyeliner and mascara to go to class. I like adding some red lipstick to go with that and make the look even more polished if I want to look extra cute.

So I put this together: (These pictures were taken five hours after I actually put on my makeup)

Products Used:

Neutrogena Shine Control primer

Neutrogena Shine Control foundation in Ivory

Neutrogena Shine Control translucent setting powder

ELF Mineral eye primer

Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bold Gold (all over the lid)

Maybelline Color Tattoo in Tough as Taupe (in the crease)

Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze (along the lower lash line)

ELF liquid liner

WetnWild Coloricon black eyeliner pencil (along the waterline)

L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black mascara

NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder

NYX Bronzer in When Leopard Gets a Tan

Clinique blusher in Sunset Glow

NYX Round Lipstick in Pure Red

And last but not least... my OOTD:

Black leggings are my new staple. They were against the dress code at my high school and now in college they're all I wear!

The black leggings I'm wearing are ones I got at Forever 21.

I'm also wearing:

Pewter colored lace cami from American Eagle Outfitters

Boyfriend button down from H&M

Rabbit fur scarf my bubbe bought me in Paris

Nine West American Vintage Collection shearling boots

ALSO, I would just like to say a big thank you to my newest followers! I'm only one follower away from 100!

I hope you all enjoy what you see/read! Feel free to give me feedback, etc. Let me know if you like these LOTD posts. I do have some reviews coming up soon as well!

Join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise!

Super late SLEEK HAUL!

2012-09-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

So for my birthday, I had decided to get myself a few goodies from Sleek since they do have pretty reasonable international shipping and since I've seen these products (especially the palettes) used in endless blogs and Youtube videos. In total, I only spent about $50 which isn't horrible. That's including $10 international shipping, I'm pretty sure.

I decided my strategy with this palettes, instead of getting overwhelmed by all the gorgeous colors, would be to use one palette at a time, figuring out all the looks I could create with one before I moved on to the next one.

Before I get to the palettes, I got the ever-so-famous blush in Rose Gold:

This blush is just so gorgeous. I know it is a dupe for Orgasm. Although I don't own Orgasm, I've seen swatches and it is pretty close. Not exact, but I don't need the real deal.

I think this was only $6?

Oh So Special:

This was the first palette I decided to use, since I thought it would be my least favorite. I was poorly mistaken! So far, Oh So Special is my absolute favorite. I'm in love.

You can find one look I've done here and another one here. I'm sure you'll be seeing even more looks coming with this palette.

Bad Girl:

As you can probably tell, these colors are more fit for a night out or going to parties, which is what I have primarily used it for. One night, I created a party look with the gorgeous deep greens, and another night I used the charcoal colors with the dark purple and black.

If you like dark and pretty looks for partying or going out, this is the perfect palette! The colors are ridiculously pigmented!

Au Naturel:

This is the palette I decided I would use after the Oh So Special and I have created some gorgeous looks with this one, but I keep coming back to the Oh So Special.

Regardless, this has some beautiful neutrals.

Storm:

I have only used this palette once so far, so I don't have much to say besides that I love the colors and can't wait to use them once I exhaust the other ones in the other palettes.

The colors are pigmented, shimmery, blend so beautifully.

I think Sleek is one thing that the Brits have over the Americans. For those of you willing to pay $10 for shipping, I think investing in a few of these palettes is an extremely smart thing to do. I don't ever want to look back to the days before I had these. I don't ever want to be without these.

Since there are endless reviews with swatches of these palettes out there, I'm not including swatches or a review. They're perfect, amazing, wonderful palettes. Get them. 10/10.

HOWEVER, if you do want me to post swatches, by all means, tell me!! And looks you would like for me to share? Let me know!

I hope you all are having an amazing and relaxing weekend! Vive le week-end! ;)

August/September Favorites!

2012-09-28T16:15:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

August was another one of those months where the end of the month crept up on me, but I am including those favorites in this post as well.

So, in no particular order...

WetnWild Megalast nail polish in On a Trip

If you follow me on Instagram, then you've probably already seen this picture. The color is gorgeous and the formula is perfection. The best part is that this nail polish is only $1.99. I want them all.

Sleek Oh So Special Palette

I got my shipment of Sleek palettes at the end of August (haul post coming, I promise!) and I can honestly say this was the best beauty investment I have ever made. With my Sleek palettes, I couldn't possibly want any more in life.

This palette, though, in particular has become a staple. I wanted to focus on one palette at a time and figure out new looks but I'm still working on this one. The colors are pigmented, gorgeous, blend easily, and truly enhance my natural beauty.

I could go on and on... This palette is my one true love.

Sephora Day to Night Wear Eyeliner in Black Flame

I bought this when I just so happened to be at Sephora picking up my birthday gift and saw this for only $2. It is soo amazing! I've never had an eyeliner show up so well on my water line! (I'm too cheap to get an Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner). You can barely tell there's shimmer in this, so it's just a great smooth & pigmented black eyeliner crayon (it's the twisty kind).

American Apparel nail laquer in Passport Blue

I bought this a couple years ago at an American Apparel in Orlando (although I do have one in my hometown). I haven't used it much, and recently I decided I was in the mood for a darker color. I love this so much! The formula is pretty good. Yes, I know my nails are chipped. I will fix them - I just wanted to show the color.

And yes, the color is almost exactly the color of a US passport! (Even more so in real life - the picture is skewed by the sunlight)

Liplicious Cupcakes lipgloss in Pink Chiffon

This is one of those LE lipglosses you can get around the holidays at Bath & Body Works. I got this probably a year or two ago. I have a huge collection of these glosses and this happened to be one of them.

This is a gorgeous light pink shade with fine glitter. It smells great and just looks really lovely on. I put this in my little wristlet where I stash my university ID and room key, so it's handy to put on throughout the day. Added bonus: it's moisturizing and leaves my lips feeling like I had on chapstick!

Maybelline Perfect Pastels eyeshadow quad in Velvet Crush

This is a quad I was given my bubbe. She never used it that much, but I've gotten some good use out of it! It looks great with my glasses because it really brings out the gorgeous brown in my eyes (rather than the poop brown haha). The colors are not the most pigmented and there is some fallout, but the colors blend beautifully and just look nice when I'm not in the mood to put too much effort into my makeup for the day.

Clinique Beyond Blusher in Peaches

This is just a gorgeous peachy blush I used a lot throughout August. It gives me a nice, natural glow.

ELF eyeshadow quad in Brownstone

These colors aren't shimmery, however they're not completely matte. I used these a lot throughout August. This palette is perfect for a classic and classy neutral eye, especially only at $1!

Have you guys used any of these products? Loved them?

What are your favorites from the past two months? Let me know in the comments!

!שבת שלוֹס

(Shabbat shalom)

I hope you all have a wonderful, fun, and safe weekend! :)

"Autumn Again" inspired LOTD & OOTD

2012-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! It's starting to get chilly out here in the Midwest and fall is definitely here!

Michelle Phan posted a new tutorial the other day called Autumn Again which you can view here. Mind you, I am not her biggest fan by any means. I just liked this look and thought that I could recreate it with the Sleek Oh So Special palette, which I have been loving lately.

I was able to take these pictures right before the sun went down, which means that I had had my makeup on for six hours at the time I took these pictures. Not bad!

I really really love this look and actually got compliments in one of my classes! This girl told me my makeup always looked so perfect and that she was jealous. It's the little things in life that count :) hahaha

Products Used:

Neutrogena Shine Control Primer

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation in Ivory

NYX Concealer in a Jar in Fair

Neutrogena Shine Control Translucent Powder

ELF Mineral eyeshadow primer

Sleek Oh So Special palette (Gift Basket on outer portion of lid and along lower lash line, Boxed in the crease and along the lower lash line, Organza in the inner portion of the lid and around the tear duct, Noir in the outer-v and crease, Bow as a highlight under the brow)

WetnWild Coloricon black eyeliner pencil

ELF liquid liner

Lorac Multiplex 3D Lashes mascara

NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder

ELF Essentials Blush in Bronzed (actually a bronzer - used to contour)

L'Oréal True Match Super-Blendable blush in Innocent Flush (matte peach)

WetnWild Coloricon lipliner in Brandy Wine

WetnWild Megalast lipstick in Bare It All

Last but not least... my OOTD

It was actually the first time I've worn jeans this season!

I'm wearing:

Striped top from H&M (I actually bought this shirt back in May with intentions of wearing it once I got to college)

Skinny jeans from Forever 21

Ohm scarf from World Market

Mary Janes from Urban Outfitters

I hope you guys liked this post! Leave your comments below :)

Join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

Guest Post: My Everyday Makeup Routine

2012-09-19T16:17:00.001-04:00

Hey I’m Kirsty and I blog over at Prettylittlefashionista and today I’m going to share with you my everyday makeup routine.

Obviously some days I will do things differently depending on what I’m doing and what the weather is like. Also I don’t use the same eyeshadow colours or lipsticks each day so that will change depending on what mood I’m in. I wear neutral eyeshadow colours most days but which palette and colours I use will change.

Face:

These are the products I use most days. Some days instead of foundation I will use a BB cream or a tinted moisturiser if it is hotter. The Rimmel Wake Me Up foundation is my favourite drugstore foundation. It gives a great coverage and makes my skin look amazing. The concealer that goes with this is just as good as the foundation. It covers my under eye circles and makes me look more awake. I use the MUA powder to set my foundation and make it last a bit longer. A new product I’ve discovered is the MUA mosaic blush in English Rose. Being pale I’ve always been a little scared of blushes as I didn’t think they would look right on my skin but this one just adds a light pink glow which I love.

Eyebrows:

I use the MUA eyebrow pencil in blonde to fill in my eyebrows and I then use the MUA clear mascara to set them. I find this combination works really well and both these products aren’t too expensive either.

Eyes:

So today I used the Beauty UK palette in Earth Child. I used the cream colour as a base. I then used the MUA trio in Pink Sorbet and used the lightest shade all over my lid to make a really shimmery eye. I used my ELF eyelash curlers to curl my lashes. I used the extreme felt eyeliner to do a winged eyeliner look on my top lid and I used the kohl pencil to line my waterline. I then used the Clinique high impact mascara that I got free in Instyle magazine.

Lips:

I’ve really loved using the Revlon Kissable Balm Stain in Cherish and this is what I used on my lips today. It lasts quite a long time so I don’t need to worry about applying it during the day.

Brushes:

I use a variety of ELF brushes as they are really cheap and are pretty good brushes for the price.

I hope you guys enjoyed this post! A big thank you to Kirsty for writing this guest post!

If any of you are still interested in writing a guest post for me, please contact me at jessiefrancaise[at]gmail[dot]com and we can arrange something :)

I hope you all are doing well! More posts to come! In the meantime, join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

Quick Target haul

2012-09-17T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I've been a little sick and lost my voice for a couple days, but it's slowly coming back!

I've needed to go to Target to get more moisturizer for a couple weeks now and finally got the time to go.

And, of course, you guys know how it is - you go to Target only needing to get a few specific things but leave with more than you needed. It's always the case. Fortunately, though, it made for a good little haul post.

ELF Makeup Mist & Set Spray - I've read plenty of reviews on this and I've been wanting to try a setting spray for a while now. It doesn't smell that amazing, but I'm hoping it works wonders on keeping my makeup perfect all day.

Ponds Dry Skin Cream - I actually have oily skin, but I use this moisturizer at night. I tried my mom's before I moved and when I woke up, my skin was so soft and bright and wonderful looking. I am in love with this stuff.

Garnier Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream - This is the moisturizer that I use during the day. It smells great, feels great, and is perfect for oily skin. It reminds me of the Clinique Moisture Surge gel moisturizer, but much cheaper!

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour foundation - After hearing Emily Eddington (emilynoel83 on Youtube, or maybe better known as Beauty Broadcast) rave about this foundation, I definitely wanted to try this! Let's see how it compares to my beloved Revlon Colorstay.

Maybelline Color Tattoos (Bold Gold, Tough as Taupe, Bad to the Bronze) - Everyone and their mother has tried these, reviewed them, and raved about them. This is my first time trying them. I stopped myself from getting more than three.

If you want me to review any of these, please let me know in the comment section below! I feel like I haven't done any reviews in a long time.

Also, have you tried any of these products? Loved/hated? Let me know!

You can always join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

To all the Jews out there - L'SHANA TOVA and a very happy new year!!

Shabbos makeup!

2012-09-15T15:08:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

I know I've been MIA - I have a lot of posts yet to write. I just need to find some time. I'm hoping within the next week.

I just wanted to do a quick post for you guys to show you what I wore for shabbat last night! If you follow me on Instagram, you probably already saw this.

So you guys know I'm Jewish and our sabbath starts on Friday night at sundown. The service, just like a church service, is Friday night, but there are also services on Saturday mornings. Here at college, we go to the Jewish center for shabbat services. You have to look nice and there's lots of cute boys all over the place anyway :)

I took these with PhotoBooth on my Mac, so they're not spectacular, but I thought they were decent as far as quality is concerned, and seeing my makeup clearly. (click to enlarge)

Products Used:

Neutrogena Shine Control Primer

NYX Concealer in a Jar in Fair

Revlon Colorstay foundation in Nude

Neutrogena Shine Control translucent pressed powder

Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Linen

Sleek Oh So Special Palette (Celebrate all over the lid and along the lower lash line, The Mail in the crease, Organza in the inner portion of the lid/tear duct, Bow as a highlight under the brow)

Lorac Front of the Line Pro liquid liner

L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black mascara

NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder

ELF blush in Bronzed

Sleek blush in Rose Gold

Liplicious Cupcakes lipgloss in Pink Chiffon (LE, but I adore all the lipglosses from Bath & Body Works!)

So I hope you guys liked that. I'm working on some more posts to get up for you!

For those of you who just started school, I hope you're doing well, studying hard, and not getting too stressed out!!

Join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

Guest Bloggers?

2012-09-04T16:34:00.001-04:00

Hey guys!

I am getting in the swing of things here at school, but once I get to take some pictures and edit them, I'll have some more blog posts up.

In the meantime, I'm studying hard! I love my classes, but I do have a lot of reading!

SO - I would like to open up my blog to guest posters.

If you are interested, please email me at jessiefrancaise[at]gmail[dot]com

In this email, please include your name (obviously), your blog (link me to it as well), what your blog's main focus is, and maybe some ideas you have for posts if you were to write one for me. Nothing too complicated.

I look forward to hearing from you guys! I hope you're all doing well - especially if you're going back to school!

Redbook Magazine's Best Makeup Ideas Ever

2012-08-28T16:46:00.001-04:00

Hey guys!

A couple weeks ago, the latest issue of Redbook magazine was sent to me and I actually had time to flip through. An article that caught my eye was called "The Best Makeup Ideas Ever". I thought that I would share these with you guys, along with my own personal commentary.

They included pictures of celebrities over the past century displaying each makeup idea and then comments and suggested products.

I generally do agree with what they came up with, but I also wanted to contribute my opinion. I thought you, my followers, might find this as an interesting kind of post. I will warn you - this may be a long post.

1. Full Brows

If you do follow my blog, you have seen that I do have full and dark brows. I thank my ethnic background for my eyebrows. Although they are full without filling them in, I do not like to go out without brow powder.

The first brow powder I used and fell in love with was the NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder (I use the color Brown/Dark Brown). It includes two powders (which are like eye shadows, but more tightly packed) and a clear wax to set the brows. I don't usually use the wax just because I hit pan on the wax way before the powders. I have had the same powders for two years now and yes, I have hit pan, but I won't run out for a long time. For only $6, who can say no to that?

My mom, on the other hand, has much lighter hair and brows. She is fair with freckles and a much more rosy-toned complexion than me. I turned her on to using a brow powder and a defined brow really just does wonders to the face.

So I definitely agree with Redbook on this one. I have embraced a full brow. I do think tamed brows are an important part of the face. If you haven't tried filling in your brows, I do recommend the NYX powder, or any product along those lines because I don't think it could ever disappoint.

2. Mega Lashes

Thinking back on this, where I do agree with Redbook as this is one of the best makeup ideas, it can go a little overboard. I think most of you would say that mascara is a definite must. Among beauty bloggers, I think the consensus is that if there's one makeup product we couldn't go without, it would be mascara.

I love having the appearance of thick, black lashes. My favorite mascaras at this point are Covergirl Lashblast and L'Oréal Carbon Black Voluminous mascara. I have used Diorshow in the past, and it is a love of mine, but I just can't justify spending that much money on a mascara.

Having expressed my love of mascara-given mega lashes, I have a love/hate relationship with false lashes. I have used them before. Although I like the appearance that some lashes have given me, they irritate my contact lenses and make my eyes feel heavy. On other people, I love them and hate them. If I see a woman in public who is wearing ridiculous lashes doing day-to-day activities (and I mean like working, riding the subway with her daughter, NOT attending a special event), yes I do hate them.

A look without mascara would be missing something, in my opinion. But I don't think false lashes are as necessary - just a personal preference.

3. Winged Liner

LOVE LOVE LOVE winged liner! I would feel weird if I did a look with eyeliner that didn't have even the tiniest little bit of wing. It's cute, classy, polished, and just pretty to look at.

I am not an advocate for extreme Amy Winehouse winged liner. I think most people would have a hard time pulling that off.

I do love my ELF liquid liner. It's not perfect. But it's $1 and does what I need it to do. I also love the WetnWild Megalast liquid liner.

What else can I say? I think this world would be missing out on a lot without winged liner in existence.

4. Rosy Cheeks

As I typed the words "rosy cheeks", a picture of some Renaissance painting displaying an attractive woman with rosy cheeks came to my mind. What does this tell us? Rosy cheeks are timeless. They have always been seen as attractive. I don't think it will ever go out of style.

What I love to give me just a little rosy glow are the Clinique Beyond Blusher in Peaches, NYX blush in Pinched, and Sleek blush in Rose Gold.

I think a rosy cheek just gives balance to the face and brings out the youthful appearance of the skin.

I can't think of any kind of sexy makeup look without the little glow on the cheeks of a rosy, if not coral color added to the cheek area.

5. Pink Lips

I can just remember my first little tube of lipstick. It was a bright, frosty magenta. I loved it because it was almost exactly the same color that my 4 year old preschool teacher wore. Yes, I had an eye for makeup even back then. Since then, I have had my share of pink lipsticks in all different shades.

Just a little tidbit of knowledge for you makeup geeks out there - in my Theory of Knowledge course last year, we watched a documentary of the science behind beauty and the Golden Ratio. Lipstick was originally used to darken the lips to a rosy tone, similar to the tone it looks like during orgasm. But it was also used to give the appearance of the color of a certain monkey's anus. Now, don't quote me on this. I'm simply recounting what this BBC documentary said.

Pink lips are classic. I actually don't like nudes that much. The nude lip colors I do have and wear typically have a pink tint to them. I actually want to go in search of a similar color to what Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast at Tiffany's. I adore the "my lips but better" kind of look. Having said that, I long to have a collection of beautiful YSL pink lipsticks some day when I have my hefty paycheck :)

For a pinky nude, I gravitate towards Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick in Ginger Rose or NYX Round Lipstick in Thalia. Other pinks include Clinique lipstick in Think Bronze and Raspberry Glacé and NYX Round Lipsticks in Paris and Louisiana.

6. Purple eyeshadow

Purple eyeshadow looks good on everyone. Whether it's bright, toned down, light, or dark, I think there is a purple eyeshadow for everyone. If someone is afraid of wearing color on their eyes, yet wants to branch out, purple is the color to try first.

Every time I wear my NYX Studio Liquid Liner in Extreme Purple, I get compliments. I do have a review of it here. It is the most gorgeous color. Also, if you want to see what purple eyeshadow does to brown eyes, mine pop like crazy in this look.

I also enjoy NYX eyeshadow in Purple - whether it's just the single eyeshadow or the shimmer pigment, they're basically the same color and universally flattering.

If you haven't tried purple eyeshadow before, do it. Redbook was spot on with including this as one of the best makeup ideas ever.

7. Red lips

If Redbook had left this off the list, I probably would have cried. One of my personal philosophies is that every woman should own at least one tube of red lipstick. I own probably ten different shades...

Red lips are classy, beautiful, simple, yet sophisticated. Anytime I want to look put together or just want to add a little oomph to a look and/or outfit, I will add some red lipstick.

There's a reason why lipstick sales, both drugstore and high end, go up during a recession. Women want to feel good. The feeling of putting on red lipstick and seeing how good it makes me look is one of life's best simple pleasures.

My go-to red lipsticks are Dior Rouge in Rouge Favori and NYX Round Lipstick in Electra OR Snow White.

This look says it all...

8. Smoky eyes

This is another one of those makeup looks where if Redbook had left this off the list, I would have cried. With very little experience, one can create a simple smoky look that can transform the face and overall appearance. A smoky is my go-to look. All you need is two colors and sufficient blending and you can create this.

Smoky eyes can be adapted for the day and school/work. Smoky eyes can be worn at night. Smoky eyes just make sense.

My favorite classic gray/black smoky is with the ELF quad in Drama. My favorite smoky that literally makes me look like a Kardashian is with the ELF quad in Day2Night. I would highly recommend these - review and swatches here.

If you've read to this point, congratulations. You must enjoy my writing skills.

I would love to hear your opinion. Feel free to debate me. Let me know what you think are the best makeup ideas ever.

Also, if you enjoy posts like these, let me know below in the comment section please! Or you can always tweet me @jessiefrancaise

The Sunshine Award!

2012-08-27T12:48:00.001-04:00

Hey guys!

A while back, Molly at The Make-up Counter had nominated me for the Sunshine Award and I'm just now getting around to doing this, but THANK YOU Molly :)

On a side note - I'm getting into the swing of things, adapting to college life, and proceeding through the mourning process, et cetera et cetera... So I do have more posts coming on a more regular basis. I won't ramble :)

SO the rules are as follows:

1. Include award logo in a post or on your blog page.

2. Answer (10) questions about yourself. These are below.

3. Nominate 10-12 other fabulous bloggers.

4. Link your nominees to the post and comment on their blog, letting them know about the award.

5. Share the love and link the person who nominated you.

The questions:

1. What would you most like to change about yourself?

I don't know. I think I'm fine the way I am. I learn from my flaws. I can't be perfect and I wouldn't want to be perfect. So I wouldn't change who I am.

2. What is your theme song?

I don't really have a theme song, but the songs I most love to sing are For me Formidable by Charles Aznavour and Hymne à l'amour by Edith Piaf.

3. One part of your life - a memory, action etc. that you wish you could surgically remove from your brain?

HAHAHA well... I won't get into details, but I did a lot of stupid things my first two years of high school and I wish I didn't do them, but here I am wiser from everything.

4. What generation do you wish you had been a part of?

I like the era that I've grown up in. I experienced the 90's and the 2000's growing up. NSYNC and Furbies, the rise of technology, Myspace to Facebook, etc... BUT I think it would have been cool to live in La Belle Epoque in Paris.

5. What was your favourite childhood toy?

I had a lot of great toys, but I always preferred books to toys.

6. What is your favourite housecleaning chore?

Honestly, I don't mind cleaning the toilets at home. I used to love doing it and would ask my mom if I could. I wouldn't say I enjoy it, but it's the least strenuous/tedious.

7. Do you have Twitter?

Yes! Sorry, it's both personal and for my blog. So my followers can read about my life and my personal followers can read about my blog. Follow me @jessiefrancaise and let's spark up a conversation.

8. Any goals?

I just want to succeed in my education and have a great career down the road. That's my main concern at this point.

9. Do you really drink margaritas all the time?

No. Random question.

10. What is the ugliest car you've ever driven and were embarrassed to be seen in?

Hahaha sorry dad, but my dad's old car :)

I tag the following bloggers:

Alex at I am a weapon of massive consumption

Maria Veronica at Diamondinrouge

Janine at TheAmazingWorldofJ

Kerry at Beauty Blogspot

Kirsty at AlwaysDrinkTea

Football game makeup

2012-08-24T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! Today I have a look to share that I wore to a football game with my dad.

The day after my birthday, he took me to the season opener game for the Carolina Panthers. My best friend came with us to tailgate so that was fun.

I hadn't done a really smoked up smokey eye in a long time and I found that proper for the event. The Panthers' colors are blue and black. Seeing as I didn't own any blue eyeshadow at the time, I went for a charcoal and black.

I realize that the lighting for these pictures sucks and that the quality may not be the best. I took them last minute with my iPhone. I just wanted to share the look, not show professional work.

The pictures don't do the look justice, but that's usually the case, isn't it? Seems like it.

Products Used:

MUFE HD Microperfecting Primer

Revlon Colorstay foundation in Nude

NYX Concealer in a Jar in Fair

Clarion Natural Finish Powder in Natural Ivory

ELF HD Powder

ELF Essentials eye primer in Pearl

NYX Eyeshadow Base in White

ELF mineral eyeshadow in Socialite

Lorac Ooh La Lace palette (matte black)

Lancôme Color Design eyeshadow in Style Selection (metallic)

NYX Runway Collection palette in Champagne and Caviar (matte black in outer v and crease, matte white as highlight under the brow)

Wetnwild Color Icon single eyeshadow in Brule

NYX Eyebrow Cake powder

ELF liquid liner

Sephora Day to Night Wear eyeliner in Black Flame

Cover girl Lashblast

Ulta bronzer

NYX blush in Pinched

Wetnwild Megalast lipstick in Bare It All

I hope you guys like this! Let me know in the comment section how you do your makeup for certain sporting events.

Thank you all for your support! Join me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

Birthday Makeup!

2012-08-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

I realize that I have finally been legal for almost two weeks now.

Here's a recap of my past two weeks: I turned 18, I moved into my dorm, my grandfather died, I flew alone for the first time, and I officially started college.

This might explain the lack of posts lately.

But I did want to share everything about my big day :)

I spent the first part of the day with my dad. He went to take me to get my hair cut. Then we had lunch and went to visit his dad (the one who just passed away). Then we went to the mall for a bit of shopping and a fancy Italian dinner. My best friend from high school joined us. OH, and how could I forget dessert and coffee at my favorite Parisian café in town?

Without further ado, on to the makeup...

I like this look as a basic neutral look that can be played up in the cheek and lip category. Later after taking these pictures, I added Lorac liquid lipstick in Trendsetter and a little more highlighter.

At night, I wore MUFE red lipstick and added some Dior kohl eyeliner to my waterline.

Products Used:

MUFE HD Microperfecting Primer

Diorskin Forever Teint Haute Perfection Tenue Extrême foundation

Revlon Colorstay foundation in Buff

MUFE Lift Concealer in shade 3

Chanel Double Perfection Natural Matte Powder Makeup in Ivory Beige

Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Linen

ELF eyeshadow quad in Brownstone

Lorac Front of the Line Pro liquid eyeliner

Revlon Eyeglide shimmer shadow in Pearl

L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black mascara

Revlon Eyeglide shimmer shadow in Pearl

Shiseido The Makeup Accentuating Color Stuck in Champagne Flush

NYC bronzer in Sunny

Clinique Beyond Blusher in Peaches

Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick in Ginger Rose

Lancôme Color Design lipstick in B-List

And since I've never shown an OOTD... I bought this for college a while back when I was at H&M but decided to wear this for the first time on my birthday. I think it was only $13 or around that price, so it was an amazing deal. It's soft and hugs me in all the right places.

Stay tuned for a birthday haul post :)

Again, thank you guys for reading and a special thank you to my newest followers!

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @jessiefrancaise

This or That Tag

2012-08-22T15:52:00.001-04:00

I saw this tag a while back on Laura's All Made Up and decided I would do it when I needed a quick post or when I had a lack of inspiration.

Et voilà...

MAKEUP :

BLUSH OR BRONZERS?

Hmm, if I had to choose absolutely one I would choose blush, although I love bronzer too.

LIPGLOSS OR LIPSTICK?

Lipstick!

EYELINER OR MASCARA?

Mascara - I could go without eyeliner but never mascara.

FOUNDATION OR CONCEALER?

Foundation - I use Revlon Colorstay and that does a good job at concealing as well.

NEUTRAL OR COLOURED EYESHADOWS?

Neutral

PRESSED OR LOOSE EYESHADOW?

Pressed is always easier.

BRUSHES OR SPONGES?

Brushes.

NAILS :

OPI OR CHINA GLAZE?

I've never used China Glaze. I'm not exactly that impressed with OPI. Personally I prefer Essie.

LONG OR SHORT?

Not too short, but not too long.

ACRYLIC OR NATURAL?

Natural all the way!

BRIGHTS OR DARKS?

Brights I guess. I'll wear a bit of everything.

FLOWER OR NO FLOWER?

No flower?

BODY:

PERFUME OR BODY SPRAY?

Perfume

LOTION OR BODYBUTTER?

The only thing that really moisturizes my skin is baby oil.

BODY WASH OR SOAP?

I don't care. I just use soap.

LUSH OR OTHER BATH COMPANY?

I've never tried Lush. There's not one in my hometown. I've been raised on Bath & Body Works.

FASHION:

JEANS OR SWEATPANTS?

Jeans. Sweatpants in public are an abomination.

LONG SLEEVE OR SHORT?

It depends on the time of year and weather.

DRESSES OR SKIRTS?

Dresses.

STRIPES OR PLAIN?

Stripes are fun.

FLIP FLOPS OR SANDALS?

I don't really own any sandals, so flip flops.

SCARVES OR HATS?

Scarves

STUDS OR DANGLY EARRINGS?

I usually wear a dangly in my first hole and a stud in the second hole.

NECKLACES OR BRACELETS?

I have a set necklace and bracelets that I always wear and never take off.

HEELS OR FLATS?

Flats.

COWBOY BOOTS OR RIDING BOOTS?

Neither.

JACKET OR HOODIE?

Jacket.

FOREVER 21 OR CHARLOTTE RUSSE?

I like both, however I think Forever 21 has more fun and classic pieces that are more my style.

ABERCROMBIE OR HOLLISTER?

Neither. OY the memories of middle school...

SAKS 5TH AVENUE OR NORDSTROMS?

It's NORDSTROM not Nordstroms. Pet peeve when people add an s on the end.

HAIR:

CURLY OR STRAIGHT?

My hair is naturally straight and I keep it that way.

BUN OR PONYTAIL?

When I need to put my hair up and I'm going out in public, I usually make a bun. Around the house, I'll wear a ponytail.

BOBBY PINS OR BUTTERFLY CLIPS?

Bobby pins - what are butterfly clips anyway?

HAIR SPRAY OR GEL?

I don't use either.

LONG OR SHORT?

Long. I hate my hair short.

LIGHT OR DARK?

My hair is dark. I like it that way.

SIDE SWEPT OR FULL BANGS?

I've never been able to pull off any kind of bangs.

UP OR DOWN?

Down.

RANDOM:

RAIN OR SHINE?

Shine!

SUMMER OR WINTER?

I prefer fall and spring myself.

FALL OR SPRING?

Fall.

CHOCOLATE OR VANILLA?

Vanilla.

I AM TAGGING :

Anyone who reads this and feels like doing it.

This one goes out to Pop Pop

2012-08-18T15:42:00.001-04:00

You may remember me mentioning issues in my family in earlier posts. Well, here goes...

Vous vous souvenez peut-être que j'avais mentionné des problèmes familiales dans des postes précédents. Et voilà..

My Pop Pop (grandfather) passed this past Thursday, August 16 at 9:52 PM.

Mon grand-père est mort ce jeudi dernier, le 16 août à 21h52.

I had just settled into my dorm when that morning, my mom and I got a call from my dad that we needed to come home. We drove 600 miles in 9 hours.

Je venais juste de m'installer à ma chambre (à l'université), quand ma mère et moi avons reçu un appel de mon père que nous devions revenir chez nous. On a conduit 600 miles en 9 heures.

He died peacefully and surrounded by his family.

Il est mort tranquillement entouré de sa famille.

He was a Holocaust survivor who survived the wrath of Stalin and the gulags of Siberia. After the war, he became a man in Paris, France. There, he met a beautiful woman who was also a Holocaust survivor. They married and had three boys, one of which is my dad.

Il était survivant de l'Holocauste qui a survécu le courroux de Staline et les gulags de Sibérie. Après la guerre, il a grandi à Paris, France. Là, il a rencontré une belle femme qui était survivante aussi. Ils se sont mariés et ont donné naissance à trois fils, dont un est mon père.

A photo of him back in France.

Une photo de lui en France.

This was the last of his father's wealth from before the war which he never took off of his neck. My father now wears it around his neck.

Ce pièce de monnaie était le dernier de la richesse de son père, d'avant la guerre, qu'il n'a jamais décollé de son cou. Mon père le porte maintenant autour de son cou.

He loved matzo ball soup!

Il a adoré la soupe aux boulettes de matzo.

I just wanted to dedicate a post in his memory, a man who lived a life of survival, of wealth, and surrounded by the love of his family.

Je voulais juste dédier un poste en hommage de lui, un homme qui a vécu une vie de la survivance, de la richesse, et entouré de l'amour familial.

I am also writing this post in French because it was a language that I shared with him.

J'écris ce poste en français aussi car c'était une langue que je partageais avec lui.

Je t'aime pour toujours mon vieux <3

Я люблю тебя мой дедушка, ВСЕГДА.

Prom Pictures...a little late

2012-08-14T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

Since I know I'll be busy very soon, I am scheduling this. So as you read this, I am probably moving in to my dorm at college! Finally! My school is actually 9 hours away from where I was born and raised, but I am so excited for this change. I may talk more about this, show pictures, etc.

So while looking through personal pictures the other night, I just remembered: I FORGOT TO POST MY PROM PICTURES! Even though it's 3 months afterwards, I really wanted to share the look I created.

Okay, I know I didn't do a whole "party look" - I'm different. I wanted to look like a 1920's French actress because that's what I like.

No, I did not go with a date. I went with a group of friends. My best friend was basically my date. Actually, my guest of honor was my love, but for personal reasons he couldn't be there, so he was there in heart <3

We did take group pictures and I have super gorgeous pictures with my parents, but obviously for personal reasons I am not posting these.

My dad took these on his super fancy schmancy camera.

My mommy brought gardenias from our garden in the backyard to put in my hair :)

Actually, my hair was a last minute thing. My best friend helped me with it even though she's not beauty-oriented. I watched some Youtube videos on cute retro hair and the pin-curl look intrigued me. I think it looked beautiful and after dancing my ass off, an hour before prom ended, they fell out and I still had gorgeous hair :)

My dress was from Group USA. I actually bought it for my junior prom last year, but I didn't end up going to that. I wore it for the first time to a formal dinner in Paris last summer, which worked out fabulous. I saved it to wear to my senior prom this year.

We took these pictures at the biggest, most beautiful park in my city. And of course, there were several other prom groups taking their pictures. Some random ladies (moms of other girls taking prom pictures) saw me and said something along the lines of, "I don't know why, but you just look so French!"

My best friend looked at me and laughed - because she knows my grandparents are super Parisian.

Now on to the makeup look...

If you didn't think I use high end products, you're wrong ;)

I started off with MUFE HD Primer. Then I used my Diorskin Forever foundation, and concealed with my MUFE concealer (I don't remember which kind it is). I set all of this with my Chanel pressed powder.

For the eyes, I used Laura Mercier Eye Basics primer in Linen. While that was drying, I did my eyebrows with my holy grail NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder. Then using my Dior Deux Couleurs (so sad they discontinued this!) eyeshadow duo in Purple Look. I put the shimmery champagne pink all over the lid, with the matte eggplant purple in the crease. I used the pink under the brow as well and lined my lower lash line with the purple.

I used my Lorac Front of the Line Pro liner to make a winged liner. I don't remember which lashes I used but I think they were Ardell? And then I used my Lorac mascara.

I used a Chanel blush - I don't remember the color.

Then on the lips I used my Dior Rouge lipstick in Rouge Favori and topped it with NYX Round Lipstick in Snow White.

This is basically my favorite formal, fancy, special occasion look.

I'm wearing basically the same thing at the Military Ball:

And out and about in Paris:

I hope you guys enjoyed this little post! You can leave your feedback in the comment box below or tweet me @jessiefrancaise

Stay tuned for collegey posts :)

And as this look calls for, I leave you with this beautiful song sung by my favorite French singer, Charles Aznavour ;)

11 Questions Tag!

2012-08-12T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

I was tagged in yet another post - this time it's the 11 Questions Tag, which reminds me of the Liebster Award, but whatever. So thank you to Sian at Sian Says for tagging me! You can view her responses here.

The rules as followed:

1. Each person must post 11 things about themselves.
2. Answer the questions that the tagger set for you plus create 11 questions for the people you’ve tagged to answer.
3. Choose 11 people and link them in your post.
4. Go to their page and tell them.
5. No tag backs!

To start off with, my lovely followers, you may learn 11 MORE things about me:

1. I am a crazy tea snob.
2. I am addicted to Foreign Affairs (the journal).
3. Watching ABC News to see my handsome David Muir reporting is the highlight of my evening.
4. I used to play flute in my high school's marching band.
5. Wearing lacy underwear makes me happy.
6. I used to have a lot of issues with anxiety and depression, but have since got better and have been able to stay off medication!
7. In high school, I was on the Academic World Quest team. It was a group of some classmates and I that studied world affairs and competed at local competitions. They are events sponsored by the World Affairs Council so that's really cool.
8. In my high school career I was president of French Club and also an officer of National Honor Society.
9. I taught myself to read when I was 4 and I've been a bookworm ever since.
10. Although I no longer wish to pursue a career in the healthcare field, I would make an amazing doctor. My knowledge of the human body is vast.
11. I actually keep my blog as a hidden part of my life and don't discuss it with that many people. It's my own little outlet.

The questions that Sian asked me:

1) What's your favourite thing about blogging? Getting feedback and realizing that people enjoy what I post - I really get a lot out of that, it's just the coolest part of having my own little space of the internet2) Chocolate, strawberry or vanilla? Vanilla3) What's your one product that always makes you feel good when you put it on? Any of my high end lipsticks or perfumes4) Are you religious or lazy with your skincare routine? Be honest! I used to be super lazy - sleeping in my makeup was a nightly routine. I have since become much more religious as I see that a little bit more care actually makes a difference.5) What are your favourite make-up brushes? Let's be real - I'm not splurging on Mac brushes when I'm a student. Maybe when I'm making 6 figures in the UN. So at this point, ELF brushes are all I've really gotten into. They're decent and affordable. They do what I need them to do and the finished look is okay. 6) What's your most well-worn outfit in your wardrobe? It depends on the time of year. At this point, my summery dresses. 7) You can only shop in 1 make-up and 1 beauty store for the rest of your life - what would they be? I would say Target, but my local Target doesn't carry WetnWild, although I know other Targets do. Let's just say Target.
8) Do your family and friends know about/support your blogging? I think I mentioned it to my mom last summer when I started it, but I kinda don't really mention it at all.
9) Did you enjoy or hate school? Love academics, not fond of my peers. 10) What's your favourite food? I have a major weakness for fried pickles, Mexican food, and anything made out of potatoes.11) Have you been watching the Olympics?! Just barely. Whenever I go to visit my grandfather in hospice, he's had it on in his room, but I haven't really been keeping up. Not really my cup of tea. Shout out to the Hungarian hotties though ;)

I tag:

Gabriella at Love.From.Londres
Molly at The Make-Up Counter
Charlotte at Charlotte Jane
Charlotte at Charlotte C
Sabrina & Geneviève at High Heels, Lipsticks and Glitters
Kerry at !tskerrybeautyblog
Kirsty at Always Drink Tea
Ash (?) at Belle Epoque

and anyone else who wants to join the bandwagon ;)

So for my 11 questions that I tag you in:
1. Sexiest man alive? (or dead if that's what you're into)
2. Favorite period of history?
3. Best all-around makeup brand in your opinion?
4. Let's step outside of the box - worst thing about blogging?
5. Literature or science?
6. What's the most expensive makeup product you've ever purchased? Was it worth the pretty penny?
7. Best under-hyped product? (like a product that doesn't receive much hype, yet is still amazing)
8. Are you religious at all?
9. Best musical group that ever recorded?
10. Do you have a reality TV show weakness?
11. Will the world end in 2012?

If you do do this tag, make sure you comment your links! I'd love to read your responses.

Liebster Award Round TWO

2012-08-09T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

So I have already been awarded the Liebster Award by two lovely beauty bloggers in this post.

Well, I was awarded again by Gabrielle at Love.From.Londres! So THANK YOU! :)

Since I've already done this one time around, I'm not going to say 11 more things about me or tag anymore people, but I will be a good sport and answer her questions :)

1. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I already answered a question like this in my last Liebster post, so just quickly: Hungary, Poland, Israel, Russia, back to France, and more

2. Name something next to you? My stash of lotions and lip glosses

3. If you where a animal, which one would you be? I think I would be a moose. For some reason, I have always loved moose.

4. Name your favourite makeup/beauty all time brand? Christian Dior, but G-d knows I can't afford that all the time. So I love ELF and WetnWild are on my list of top more affordable brands, but I still like a lot of other brands.

5. What is tv show could you not live without? Political Animals, Borgen (Danish political drama), Secret Life of the American Teenager

6. Vampires or Werewolves? Neither

7. Can you speak any other languages? Fluent in English and French, can speak Hungarian and Russian and some Hebrew and Yiddish here and there

8. How many continents in the world have you visited? I live in North America and visited Europe

9. If you could change your name, what name would you rather? I like my name. I guess there are some cute names like Margot, Manon, Zsuzsa, etc.

10. What is your favourite crisp/ potato chip flavour? Hmm, I like just regular potato chips, but I also like salt & vinegar, cheese & sour cream, sour cream & onion, etc.

11. Heals or flats? Flats are more practical. I don't care if I'm super short.

Emily-inspired LOTD with NYX Smokey Palette

2012-08-08T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! This past week I was enjoying some late-night Youtube video watching. I was going through the older videos done by Emily Eddington at Beauty Broadcast, who happens to be my favorite Youtube beauty guru.

I was inspired by this look, which she calls Everyday Sexy Eye.

Instead of using the Coastal Scents 88 Warm palette, I used my NYX Smokey Eye palette (swatches in this post). It's been getting more love lately, as I did feature it in my July favorites. I'm trying to find more ways to use it (and get over the fact that the shadows aren't as great as I would like...).

These pictures were taken in direct sunlight with my iPhone 4.

I really do like the way it turned out with my glasses, but of course it looks great with or without glasses.

Products Used:

Revlon Colorstay in 200 Nude

NYX Concealer in a Jar in Fair

Palladio Rice Powder in Natural

NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder in Brown/Dark Brown

Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Linen

NYX Smokey Eyes Palette - 3rd shade bottom row on the lid, 5th shade top row in the crease, 5th shade bottom row as highlight, first two shades bottom row along the bottom lashline and to set the liquid liner

ELF Liquid Liner in Black

Covergirl Lashblast mascara

Ulta Bronzer (warm up the face)

ELF Radiance Blusher in Bronzed (contour)

Clinique Beyond Blusher in Peaches

Ulta eyeshadow in Pink (as face highlight)

Lancôme Colour Design lipstick in B-List

Ulta lipgloss in Goddess

I hope you guys enjoyed this little look! I think it turned out to be really pretty.

If you haven't checked out Beauty Broadcast, I definitely recommend it! Emily is my absolute favorite!

ALSO, do you guys have any suggestions for birthday makeup? My birthday is on Friday (the 10th) and I have no clue what to do for my makeup. I'm going out to dinner with my parents and my best friend as a little low-key thing because I am busy packing up for college (leaving very soon!). There will be more festivities once I get to school.

Thank you for reading, following, commenting, and supporting! Let me know what you think!

8 Most Worn Things Tag

2012-08-07T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hey guys!

I was recently tagged by TheParisianPout to do the 8 Most Worn Things Tag and you can see her responses here.

1. Most Worn Lipstick/Lipgloss

I have way too many lipglosses and lipsticks, so of course I had trouble only choosing one.

L-R: Revlon Ginger Rose, NYX Femme, MUFE N50 (I think this one is discontinued)

I think these are pretty much my primary go-to colors although I have a few others. NOT pictured is Mentha Lipshine - I usually use this to top of a lipstick I want to tone down.

2. Most Worn Earrings

Seeing as I don't wear earrings that often, I'm putting my most worn RING. I actually never take this off. I got it from Tiffany as a graduation gift from my bubbe. I absolutely love it and think it's classically chic, yet fun at the same time.

3. Most Worn Top

Summertime for me is the time to wear dresses every single day, so considering the time of year it is, I am showing my current favorite dress. I got this from H&M back in May for around $13 I think. I am actually wearing it right now as I type this. It's super cute for my super petite figure (5 feet or 152 cm).

4. Most Worn Nail Polish

Again, so hard to choose just one! These are the ones I seem to come running back to more than others. I have so many nail polishes that I don't wear one more than the other I think.

L-R: Essie Big Spender, ELF Moonlight, NYC Chelsea, Essence Walk of Fame

5. Most Worn Shoes

You may recognize these from my Recent Purchases post. I did buy these not even two weeks ago, but they have become my most worn shoes already. I'm in love with these. Rien à dire.

(Urban Outfitters 2/$20)

6. Most Worn Hair Product

Frankly, I do nothing with my hair. I wash/condition it in the shower and let it air dry. I do not dry it. I do not straighten it. The only products I use are Tresemmé shampoo and conditioner, and my brush. I don't find it necessary to include a photograph of these items.

7. Most Worn Perfume

At this point, I'm just trying to use up all the old bottles of perfume I have so I can get one big bottle of my favorite perfume for everyday. The first purple bottle is Mariah Carey - it smells nice, I just don't like her. The next one is Black Amethyst by Bath & Body Works. And below is Paris Amour by Bath & Body Works, which I do like a lot and hope to get more of for my birthday this Friday.

8. Most Worn Bag/Purse

This is my beloved Longchamp that I waited in a long line at Galeries Lafayette to buy last summer. In the US, these cost around $120 at Nordstrom and I got mine for 69 euro which is definitely cheaper. If you like this bag and you know you'll be in France, get one in France!!!

I can't wait to get another one the next time I'm in Europe. This is my favorite bag. Fashionable, classy, versatile AND it fits my 11 inch MacBook Air!!! :)

Now I tag:

Kristy - The Style Khaleesi

Maria Veronica - Diamond in Rouge

Hannah Justyne

Natalie Roseanne

Ashii - Beauty for Thought