The Daily Bailey B.

Makeup Wars: Favorite Beauty Tools

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 15:00:00 +0000

In this week's Makeup Wars, we're covering our favorite beauty tools. While I'm not a huge beauty techie, I definitely rely on more than just my hands to get the job done. Here are my favorites:

The Splurge: The TEMPTU Air is a new handheld version of its older sibling - a more traditional airbrush system. TEMPTU first innovated with their pod-style system where you simply replace pods to change products. No cleaning, minimal maintenance. Still, despite loving the quality and longevity of the products, the compressor and pods were a lot of parts to juggle and took up space on my counter. As a result, they slowly found their way to a drawer in favor of other foundations that were a little less cumbersome.

Enter their new TEMPTU Air - a handheld airbrush device. I just charge this guy up, and get almost a week of makeup application without needing to recharge. There aren't any power cords to dictate where you do your makeup, or compressor cords to keep you close to close to a machine. This device has changed my airbrush game by making it so much easier to store, use, and travel with. If you're new to airbrushing or TEMPTU, you can get a taste of the airbrushing basics with the Essentials Kit!

The Save: For something more traditional (that doesn't whir or buzz around your face), I have a newly discovered budget buy that has all of your basic brush needs covered: the ELF Silver 11 Piece Brush Collection. ELF has always been on top of their tool game, but has recently stepped it up with a complete face brush set that includes every brush you could need for a full face of makeup, and then some. The quality is similar to the brushes you find in their Studio line (typically sold for $3-6 individually), but you're getting these for less than $2 a piece. Steal!

January Boxycharm Unboxing + Discount Code!

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 15:25:00 +0000

A photo posted by Bailey Brown (@dailybaileyb) on Dec 23, 2015 at 12:47pm PST

It's been so long since I've shared a Boxycharm unboxing - I forgot how good they are! Thanks so much to Boxycharm for sending it my way, and sponsoring this video. See what's inside December's box, and check out reviews and demos in the video above!

They were also kind enough to provide me with a discount code for anyone interested in subscribing. Use code BOXYBaileyB save 5% off your first box!

Get Ready With Me | Holiday Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 03:28:00 +0000

'Tis the season to get gussied up! Check out my Get Ready With Me video to see my holiday party routine - from getting prepped to polished. For my acne-prone combination skin, skin care is key to keeping my makeup laying flawlessly and lasting through the party - despite holiday stress and winter dryness trying to get the best of my skin. I teamed up with Paula's Choice to create this video, and they were kind enough to offer a 20% discount and FREE site-wide shipping when you use code PRBAILEY20.

What's your go-to holiday party routine?

Products Mentioned:

Paula's Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting BHA Liquid
Paula's Choice Resist Anti-Aging Eye Cream
Paula's Choice Resist Barrier Repair Moisturizer
Paula's Choice Resist Daily Mattifying Fluid
Paula's Choice Paula's Choice 4 mattes and a glam shadow palette
Paula's Choice Berry & Bright Collection

Holiday Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sun, 13 Dec 2015 02:40:00 +0000

Sephora 2015 Winter VIB Sale Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sun, 29 Nov 2015 23:37:00 +0000

The cloud of chaos from Black Friday has barely settled, and we're already gearing up for Cyber Monday sales. Although Sephora's 20% off sale has already come and gone, they often offer up smaller steals, and amped up gifts with purchase on the major post-Thanksgiving shopping days. To help you gear up know what to snag and what to skip, I'm sharing some of the latest finds from my Sephora VIB Haul. If you're looking for a review on something in particular, you can use the search function in the side bar to learn more! In the mean time, take a peek at the swatches below, and learn all about everything mentioned in the video above!

Products Mentioned:

See more pictures after the jump!

Hot Holiday Finds for Beauty Lovers

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 02:55:00 +0000

As a recent Babbleboxx recipeint, I've had the opportunity to try some of the latest from top-notch beauty brands. While some products were already mainstays in my beauty arsenal, all are worthy of a spot in your holiday wish list - or even your psrty look lineup. Let's dig in:

1. A Rockin' Base. Whether that someone special on your list is looking for a flawless foundation, or you're looking for a base that will outlast the liveliest of holiday shindigs, MAKE UP FOR EVER Ultra HD Foundation is the perfect place to start. The line has 40 shades - so every skin tone is covered, and offers natural, buildable coverage.

The brand offers application tips to suit every skin type, but I find the technique that makes Ultra HD absolutely bulletproof on my combination skin is to prep with MAKE UP FOR EVER's Mattifying Primer. Sound familiar? It might be because I've raved about its game-changing status ever since it landed at my doorstep and found a way into my monthly favorites. Check out my video to see how I like to apply!

2. Lips (and cheeks) to Love. Nailing the perfect holiday lip will put anyone in a festive mood. LAQA AND CO.'s Lip Lube (shown in shade Golly Gee Whiz below) will give you a punch of color that moisturizes - so you're not caught off guard under the mistletoe. The peppermint scent is a holiday bonus!

If, on the other hand, you're all about bold color, look to their Cheeky Lips - shown in Mixtape (bright berry) and Humble Brag (light pink). The beauty behind these is that they not only function as long-wear matte lip colors, but they double as cheek stains! Whether you're buying for you, or your beauty-loving BFF, get 30% off all things LAQA AND CO. with code HOLIDAYLOVE. Check out my video for application tips!

3. A Festive Fragrance. Fragrances are often at the high on holiday wish lists, and Jessica Simpson's TEN deserves a spot at the top. It's no secret that I'm a sucker for rich fragrances grounded in scents like sandalwood, but TEN manages to marry sultry scents like vanilla, white chocolate bean accord, and driftwood with light floral and fruity aromas for an enticing balance.

4. A Holiday Glow. While it might be tempting to carry around twinkle lights to maintain your festive radiance, it's really inconvenient, and kind of a fire hazard. Way Too Tan Dark Hybrid Tanning Silicone is here to tackle the problem from every angle. If you like to bronze up with sun time in the sun, their tanning silicone will keep skin hydrated and nourished while encouraging a deeper, faster tan. If, on the other hand, you're sun shy (like me), you can layer this under your normal daily SPF for super silky skin that develops a natural looking sunless tan. Their airless pump bottle is a great counter staple for those truly devoted to their glow, but they also make .5 oz packets that are perfect stocking stuffers.

What beauty products are on your hot holiday list?

Humble Brag, Golly Gee Whiz, Mixtape

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com on behalf of Single Edition Media.

CIRCA Precious Metal Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 15:35:00 +0000

I'm totally new to the CIRCA beauty scene, but recently got a chance to try some of the latest from the line in their new, limited-edition Precious Metals Collection. Now available at Walgreens (displays are often right in front of the beauty counter), the products are paired together for a seasonal look, but they're also available individually in case one product in particular catches your eye.

Color Saturated Eye Crayon - Always a sucker for a one-and-done eye product, I was most excited to try these - especially the velveteen blue shade called Regal Sapphire. Chocolate Diamond and Sparkling Citrine are beautiful as well, but deep blue done with such rich pigmentation is a rarity in the drugstore. These not work well worn under shadows as an all-over color base, but also worn alone. Prep with a primer for fool-proof lasting power, but I also experience crease and fade-free wear without one. Check out the look below for a combo of all three worn on the lid!
Optical Illusion Lash Lengthening Mascara - True to its name, this mascara offers length and definition that lasts steadfast throughout the day - just take a look at the before and after below! The very plain looking want took me by surprise with how it transformed my lashes. Combined with the latin power, and this mascara is quickly making it's way to the top of my favorites pile.
Vivid Vinyl Eyeliner Fluid (Blue Topaz) - For a little hint of sparkle in your eyeliner, this is one way to go. While I'm not typically a fan of the long brush applicator for eyeliner, I'm impressed with how pigmented this liner is given how prevalent diluted shimmery drugstore formulas are out there.
Fade to Black Precision Eye Ink - This is easily the most precise eyeliner pen I've ever tried from the drugstore. The pigmentation is inky black and flows smoothly during application - no pulling or tugging. It dries to a luxe-looking matte black that lasts until it's time to remove.

Overall, I'm impressed with my first experience with what's a relatively uncharted drugstore brand!

What are your favorites from CIRCA?

Dupe or Dud: Urban Decay Naked2 Palette vs. Makeup Revolution Icon 2 Palette

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 04:06:00 +0000

Although not a new brand, Makeup Revolution is fresh on ULTA's shelves and offers a TON of products that are seemingly dupes for high-end cult classics. Case in point: the Makeup Revolution Icon 2 and Urban Decay Naked2. Visually, the two are identical, but I wanted to put them to the test to really find out.

Let's break it down:

Similarities:

12 shadows
Each shadow closely corresponds to a shade in the Naked2 Palette
Smooth textures
Mix of finishes
Broad range of shades - from light to dark

Differences:

MUR's shadows are slightly more powdery
Some MUR shadows are slightly more shiny and metallic than UD's

Bottom line: Save your money, and snag the Icon 2. Makeup Revolution also has palettes to dupe the Naked and Naked3 palettes, but without trying them I can't completely recommend them. If you've given them a try, let me know what you think in the comments!

Makeup Wars: Holiday Gift Sets

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 15:00:00 +0000

On this week's Makeup Wars, we're diving into holiday makeup sets - just in time for the flurry of holiday shopping. I have been shockingly negligent in trying holiday sets this year, so I only have two recommendations to make this year - but they're a strong two! Both of them are shadow palettes that utilize the brand's permanent eyeshadow formula, so the quality is a guarantee.

First up: Urban Decay Vice4 Palette ($60)

As the most recent in a long line of Vice Palettes, Vice4 has a reputation to live up to. Previous releases have had a perfect mix of color, neutrals, textures, and offer the same stellar shadow quality you can count on from cult classics like the Naked Palettes. Luckily, Vice4 lives up to it all with a new combination of purples, pinks, teals, and neutrals. That being said, if you're considering giving this palette as a gift, the recipient should definitely be interested in playing with color. If you're looking for something that's a better fit for a neutral-lover (who's looking for a pop of color in their life), this next palette is for you.

The MAKE UP FOR EVER 15 Artist Shadow Palette ($59) offers 15 shadows from the permanent collection in a glitzy holiday palette. MUFE's shadow formula is one of the most unique I've ever tried. They're somewhere between a powder and gel, and offer crazy-good color payoff. Although you can use the shadows in any way you want, this palette was specifically designed to create 5 unique looks using each column of coordinated shadows and comes with a booklet that illustrates how to create each. In short, it's a great gift for the makeup beginner and pro alike!

What holiday sets have you set your sites on?

Urban Decay Vice4 Palette

Urban Decay Vice4 Palette | Row 1

Urban Decay Vice4 Palette | Row 2

Urban Decay Vice4 Palette | Row 3

Urban Decay Vice4 Palette | Row 4

MAKE UP FOR EVER 15 Artist Shadow Palette

MAKE UP FOR EVER 15 Artist Shadow Palette | Row 1

MAKE UP FOR EVER 15 Artist Shadow Palette | Row 2

MAKE UP FOR EVER 15 Artist Shadow Palette | Row 3

LOC (Love of Color): Tati + Birchbox Review

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 18:11:00 +0000

When Tati announced her makeup partnership with Birchbox, I knew I needed to see what the Glam Life Guru would come up with. Flash forward to the launch of an entirely new brand call LOC (Love of Color), and I was first in line to buy when it launched on the Birchbox site. The collection consists of 5 One-And-Done eye crayons ($10 a piece) and 3 lip crayons ($8 a piece) - all of which can be purchased both individually and in various sets.

Because I couldn't help myself, I bought The Ultimate Collection which, as you might have guessed, includes all of the products in the collection. Let's start with the eye pencils. Given the name, these are supposed to be pencils you can swipe across the lid, pat to blend, and be on your way. I'm happy to say these didn't disappoint! Each shade is shimmery, and in some cases verging on metallic, so they're very multifaceted. They apply smoothly and evenly, and once they dry down, they don't budge. The before and after photos at the bottom of the post show a full day's wear without using a primer underneath! A+ to all shades - there isn't a dud in the bunch.

The lips are a slightly different story. For the most part each shade glides on effortlessly with complete opacity, and has surprising lasting power given that they don't dry completely down. As a result, they aren't completely transfer proof, but will last through minor eating and drinking events. I found I needed a complete reapplication after lunch - as is the case for me with nearly every traditional lipstick formula. Both bold shades, Wildest Dreams and Glam Life, were the top performers when it came to wear. First Kiss left a little to be desired in the pigmentation department - it's definitely not a universal nude. Because it lacks complete opacity, it took my natural lip color down to a cooler chalky hue. Those with cooler undertones might find it works for them, but it made me look a little, ummm, dead. Still, two out of three ain't bad!

Overall, this is a fantastic collection for the beauty lover looking for a simple, but glam look that gets you out the door in less than 5 minutes and lasts all day.

Wearing: Impress Me and Glam Life

Wearing: Day Trip and Wildest Dreams

iZombie Halloween Tutorial

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 16:09:00 +0000

While I'm not typically one for zombie flicks, I never pass on a smart, sassy (undead) crime-solver. iZombie satisfies fans of both with a healthy mix of brain-eating, and killer instinct. It's already in its second season (you can now catch the first on Netflix - you're welcome), but it's still flying pretty low under the radar. I thought Halloween would mean the unearthing of more fans, but no dice. So, I'm blowing the lid off this secret and bringing you a tutorial for the main monster in the show. Liv's unique mix of humor and bad-assery makes her one of my favorite TV characters - dead or alive. Get her (super easy) look using the steps in the video above!

Products Used:

White Hairspray
Red Spray Blood
MAKE UP FOR EVER Ultra HD Foundation
MAKE UP FOR EVER 12 Color Flash Color Palette (or any white face paint to mix with your foundation)
ELF Perfect Finish HD Powder
IT Cosmetics Naturally Pretty Palette
L'Oréal Voluminous Superstar Mascara
L'Oréal True Match Lumi Powder Illuminator in Golden
Lancome Drama Liqui-pencil in Pluie and Noir Intense

Backstreet Boys "Everybody" Music Video Halloween Tutorial

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 03:41:00 +0000

A photo posted by Bailey Brown (@dailybaileyb) on Oct 20, 2015 at 5:38am PDT

After perusing the web for some Halloween inspiration, I fell down the rabbit hole of old music videos and stumbled across a 90's classic: Backstreet Boys "Everybody". Not only are the jams killer, but so is the makeup - literally. If you haven't seen it, get out from under your rock and give it a watch below. Then apply your newfound exposure, grab 4 of your closest friends, coordinate your costumes (and dance moves), and rock your body....yeeeeeeah.

Products Used:

Gelatin
Glycerin
Water
MAKE UP FOR EVER 12 Color Artistic Flash Case
MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Shadows in M-100, I-220, ME-230, ME-122, I-340
Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher
Hikari Blush in Bikini
IT Cosmetics Brow Power
L'Oréal Super Voluminous Mascara
Contact is from VisionDirect.com

Makeup Wars: Unique Eye Shades

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 14:00:00 +0000

In this week's Makeup Wars, we're talking about eye products with unique hues - and it couldn't be more timely given the explosion of new multi-faceted shadows. Whether you're looking for something dramatically different, or a shade with just a hint of interest, here are some options for everyone:

butter LONDON Shadow Clutch Wardrobe Duo in Moody Blues: While the concept of a shadow clutch is something unique altogether, some of the shadows that butter LONDON has launched to fill their new palettes will make you do a double take. The wardrobe duo in Moody Blues offers a deep shimmery cobalt and a frosty white with a surprising turquoise shift. The two together make for a new take on blue smoky eye. Another notable duo is Fancy Flutter. While the blue-brown duochrome is a popular shade among many brands, pairing it with a soft gold brings out the warm undertones in the shade giving it a new twist.
NARS Dual Intensity Eyeshadows: Another way to give your everyday shadow a new twist is to foil it, or use it wet. NARS Dual Intensity Eyeshadows are formulated to be used both wet and dry to achieve two multi-dimensional finishes.
Makeup Geek Duochrome Eyeshadows: These are my latest obsession. Duochromes are always a fun way to switch up your everyday eye look, and Makeup Geek has just come out with 12 of them (and that's just talking shadows - there are also pigments!). They deliver the exact same quality the brand is known for, and at just $6 a shadow they're so worth it.
Kat Von D Lightning Liners: If neutral eyeshadow is really your wheelhouse, but you still want a way to switch up your look, reach for a new eye liner. For another twist, make it metallic. Swapping your basic black for a deep plumb can add a new dimension to your eye look, but giving it a metallic sheen can take it to the next level. Kat Von D's Lightning Liners are great picks for this for their amazing pigmentation, precision application, and incredible lasting power.

butter LONDON Shadow Clutch

butter LONDON Shadow Clutch Wardrobe Duos in Fancy Flutter and Moody Blues

NARS Dual Intensity Shadows

NARS Dual Intensity Shadows in Cassiopeia, Callisto, Pasiphae, and Subra

Makeup Geek Duochrome Eyeshadows

Kat Von D Lightning Liners

What's Inside: Play! by Sephora's September Box

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 16:44:00 +0000

A photo posted by Bailey Brown (@dailybaileyb) on Sep 24, 2015 at 8:53am PDT

Listen up, beauty-lovers: Sephora has officially launched its first monthly subscription service. Play! by Sephora is now available in limited markets, but the wait list is open to all. For $10, you receive an assortment of deluxe-size samples (think 100 point perks) and a card that allows you to tack an extra 50 points on to your next purchase. Watch the video above for a detailed look into what's inside September's box, and check the list below for links to the product pages. So far, Sephora is off to a great start with this subscription service - here's hoping they keep delivering a similar stellar assortment month to month!

Here's what's inside:

GlamGlow Supercleanse Daily Clearing Cleanser
Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation
Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon (Can't find individually on the Sephora site)
Sephora Rouge Infusion
Elizabeth & James Nirvana White
Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil

Drugstore Halloween Tutorial: Scarlet Witch

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 19:43:00 +0000

A video posted by Bailey Brown (@dailybaileyb) on Oct 10, 2015 at 9:16am PDT

Looking for a quick and easy costume you can pull together with a few of your everyday makeup products? The Scarlet Witch from Avengers: Age of Ultron is a good one! Check out the tutorial above to see how easy it is, then weigh in with your Halloween costume plans in the comments below.

Products Used:

L'Oréal Pro-matte Foundation:
Maybelline Fit Me Concealer
NYC Smooth Skin Powder
Milani Stay Put Brow Color
Wet n Wild Contour Duo
NYC Cheek Glow in West Side Wine
Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
Rimmel Scandaleyes Rockin' Curves Mascara in Rockin' Black
Colourpop Lippie Stick To Go in Bichette

75K Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 00:27:00 +0000

What's inside:

Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette
LORAC Unzipped Gold Palette
IT Cosmetics Naturally Pretty Palette
Real Techniques Bold Metals Collection 201 Pointed Crease Brush
Real Techniques Bold Metals Collection 301 Flat Contour Brush
IT Cosmetics CC+ Angled Buffing Foundation
Benefit Cosmetics Cha Cha Tint
Colourpop Bronzer in Bon Voyage
ELF Makeup Mist & Set
IT Cosmetics Hello Lashes!
butter LONDON Iconoclast Mega Volume Mascara
butter LONDON Lippy Bloddy Brilliant Lip Crayon in Ladybird
ELF Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder in St. Lucia
ELF Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder in Fiji-Matte
ecotools Collector's Brush Roll with Multi-Tasking Face Brush
ecotools 5-Piece Mineral Makeup Brush Set

Bold Metal Fall Shadow Look

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 03 Oct 2015 17:33:00 +0000

Products Used:

Too Faced Shadow Insurance
MUA Metallic Eyeshadow Palette
Marc Jacobs Beauty Sky Liner
Maybelline the Falsies Push Up Drama Mascara
MAKE UP FOR EVER Ultra HD Stick Foundation
Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher
Milani Stay Put Brow Color
Kat Von D Shade + Light Palette
Clinique Sculptionary Cheek Palette in Defining Roses
Covergirl Lipstick in 320 Soulmate (discontinued)

Makeup Wars: Beauty Products That Surprised Me

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:00:00 +0000

In this week's Makeup Wars, we're talking about products that surprised us - including the good, the bad, and the returned. To keep thing brief, I focused on the top 5 products that pleasantly surprised me. Check out the video below, and read on to learn more about them!

Charlotte Tilbury's The Retoucher - I was worried this concealer and brightener would go the way of my YSL Touché Eclat - given away to a friend that understands what all of the hype is about. Instead, I found that The Retoucher provides the perfect combination of coverage and illumination. It really won me over when it proved to be amazing breakout camo!
Rimmel Glam'Eyes 5-Color Eyeshadow - Unlike the dodgy 4 shadow palettes from before, all of the shadows in the 5 pan Glam'Eyes palettes are super smooth, very pigmented, and all shimmer is finely milled. These aren't just some of the best palettes from Rimmel, but from the drugstore in general!
Maskcara 3D Contour Palette - This palette filled a hole in my makeup routine that I didn't know I had, and does it with products that will last all day. Just 4 pans of cream product will give you a full face of makeup, including foundation, contour, highlight, illumination, and blush. I was surprised at how easily this palette simplified a process that can typically take a makeup bag full or products, and do it really well.
Ulta Contour Palette - Not only was I shocked to find this gem was a near dupe for IT Cosmetics My Sculpted Face Kit, but the quality of all of the powders in this palette blew me away as well. Ulta products in general are often overlooked in favor of more well-known brands, but they're definitely worth a second look any time you have a chance.
Starlooks - As a whole, this brand is hugely underrated. I received the 15 pan palette shown above in my first Starlooks Starbox (they now have quite a few different subscription options), and was instantly blown away. After receiving a few more boxes, I was pleased to find that the quality was consistent across their brand. For an affordable sampling of what they have to offer, I recommend looking into one of their subscription boxes!

What beauty products have surprised you?

PurMinerals Love Your Selfie Palette Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 01:56:00 +0000

"Beauty is confidence, wear it proudly"

PurMinerals Love Your Selfie Palette is an all-in-one palette designed to do it all. With 8 shadows, 3 face powders, a mascara, and lip gloss, the only thing you're missing is a base. Get a glimpse of what's inside, see how everything comes together to create a cohesive look in the video above. Then enter to win your own below!

August Ipsy Glam Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sun, 23 Aug 2015 22:53:00 +0000

This month's Ipsy bag packed a lot of value, so I wanted to give you the rundown of everything inside! Watch the video above for demos, and read on for more in-depth thoughts on each products, and brand-wide discount codes for the month!

Products Mentioned & Discount Codes:

Marsk Cosmetics Shadow Brush: Although not my favorite brush for using with powders, I think this is going to be a nice tool for applying cream and powder products. And, at a $26 value, it's more than pays for this month's bag! Get 20% off your purchase with code IPSY092015.
Lord + Berry Nude Lipliner: I've tried a few things from Lord + Berry, and this is easily my favorite! This lip liner glided across my lips, and lasted relatively well through snacking and sipping. Get 20% off your purchase with code LAB77KN
Hikari Lip Gloss in Salsa: This one took me by surprise. Salsa has amazing color payoff, and feels more like a liquid lipstick with a glossy finish rather than a traditional gel lip gloss.The lasting power is something to mention too - I experienced at least 3 hours of wear through snacking and sipping. Get 30% off and a free shadow in Taffy with code hikari30
Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eyeliner Pen: Pen liners are my favorite way to create a wing, so love getting to try new felt tip liners. I love it even more when they work really well, so I was ecstatic when Starlook's liner was a hit! It's very pigmented, long-lasting, and the felt is super soft. At $19, it was an excellent addition to this month's bag. Get 20% off your entire purchase with code IPSY.
Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizer: This is the one product I haven't tried yet. Although I'm all about adding more volume to my hair, I have a couple of volumizers from various brands already at play in my routine, so I'm working to finish those up before starting a new product. In the mean time, I can safely say it smells amazing! Get 20% off your next purchase with code IPSY20.

What's the best product you got in a monthly subscription in August?

Charlotte Tilbury X Norman Parkinson Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 16:31:00 +0000

"With this collection, I not only wanted to immortalise Norman Parkinson in makeup form, but also capture the DNA of his vision of beauty: he was an alchemist with light, capturing the sun and the differing effects of mood-lighting on the skin in a really unique way." - Charlotte Tilbury

She's done it again. Charlotte Tilbury has drawn inspiration from legendary photographer Norman Parkinson to create a collection that captures the youth-enhancing displayed through his lens, and allows you to literally paint your face in it every day. The Norman Parkinson Collection consists of 5 makeup products, and 2 makeup bags with Parkinson's work showcased on each.

As usual, the products are amazing, but the packaging are also true works of art. This is a collection to display on your vanity! The product line includes:

Film Star Bronze & Glow in Sun Tan and Sun Light: This amped up version of the original Filmstar Bronze & Glow glides on and blends flawlessly to create the ultimate natural glow. The cream texture creates a second-skin appearance.
Dreamy Glow Highlighter: This powder highlighter is the first in Charlotte's entire line to offer a cooler pink undertone for a moonlit effect.
Colour of Youth Healthy, Happy Lip & Cheek Glow: Created to emulate the flush of love and happiness, this cream blush blends smoothly over nearly any base and dries down without leaving a sticky finish on lips or cheeks.
Matte Revolution 1975 Red Lipstick: This is my first experience with the matte lipstick collection, and I'm impressed. 1975 in particular is a gorgeous, classic red meant to complement the bronzed skin and summer glow the rest of the collection provides.
Matt Revolution Lipstick in Miss Kensington: Charlotte knows nudes, so it's no surprise that this isn't my first from her. The others I have are from the K.I.S.S.I.N.G. collection, and inspired by the actual lip colors of the actresses they're named after. Nude Kate and Penelope Pink have brown undertones, while Miss Kensington is more pink leaning for an "English rose" color meant to complement fairer skin tones.

For inspiration on what to pair these products with, Charlotte has created two looks that embody personas of the era. The Miss 1979 Look and Miss Kensington Look utilize some of my absolute favorites from this makeup line to create a complete look from start to finish.

Overall, this is a drool-worthy collection. Charlotte hit the nail on the head with this one. And, while the collection might be a bit of a splurge, the beautiful packaging makes each product a true collectible with practical functionality.

Nude Kate, Penelope Pink, and Miss Kensington

Dreamy Glow Highlighter

Filmstar Sun Light

Sigma Structural Lashes Mascaras Review

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 04:37:00 +0000

Sigma recently launched a mascara line with a unique premise: 1 formula, 3 lash shapes. The Structural Lashes collection consists of a mascara that promises long wear with three wands that offer different lash styles:

Sigma Sinuosity Lash - A curling mascara with a curled wand, and rubberized comb.
Sigma Monumental Lash - A volumizing mascara with a fluffy, hourglass wand that has a slightly tapered tip
Sigma High Caliber Lash - A tight-bristled lengthening mascara with an hourglass shape

Because it's the focal point of the line, let's start with the formula. The consistency of this mascara is somewhere between thick and thin - it's not watery, but certainly not thick and clumpy. Ultimately, it's great for layering without creating thick, "crunchy", uncomfortable lashes. The lasting power definitely stands up to the 13 hour promise, and that's tested in the heat of a Texas summer! While testing it, I didn't experience any smudging, smearing, or flaking, yet it's not impossible to remove. So far, so good!

Next up: the wands: they definitely create distinct lash looks, but they're not necessarily the shape you might expect. For instance, while both Sinuosity Lash and Monumental Lash curled and volumized my lashes, respectively, I found that both added more length to my lashes than High Caliber lash (the lengthening mascara) did. That being said, the end result will ultimately depend on the lashes you're working with from the get-go.

Each of these retails for $19 a piece. But if all three Structural Mascaras strike your fancy, you can get them together for $45. My recommendation: find the shape you're after, and pick up just that mascara. One of the things I love about this line is that it's meant to provide a formula that performs universally well, but also give you options in the way of lash shape. One of the challenges in choosing the right wand will be determining how you think it will perform with your lashes. Take a look at the pictures below to see if the results are for you!

YSL Touche Éclat Blur Perfector + Primer Review

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 12:10:00 +0000

The heat of summer is never easy on makeup. But my first summer in Austin, TX has proven especially challenging when trying to keep my makeup in place throughout the day. Naturally, when Influenster gave me the opportunity to give the latest in priming and setting products from YSL a try, I was beyond eager to give them a go. Both are members of the cult classic Touche Éclat line, and as such promise to leave skin with a radiant, luminous finish. Let's dive into each:

Touche Éclat Blur Primer ($52): Meant to be worn under makeup, this dimethicone-based gel primer glides over the skin to even out texture and illuminate with flecks of gold. Unlike so many gel primers, this one is considerably thinner and doesn't leave my skin feeling like there's a film over top that's going to make my foundation slip right off. It also contains four nourishing oils that will help balance natural oil production, and hopefully keep shine at bay. All of that being said, I can't say this foundation was all that effective at keeping my makeup in place. To test it out, I applied it under my foundation to half of my face, and left the other without any primer at all. At the end of the day, both sides of my face had developed the same amount of shine, and showed the same amount of wear around the nose and chin. Overall, not the primer for me.

Touche Éclat Blur Perfector ($55): This multi-tasker promises to blur imperfections, mattify, set, and touch-up makeup throughout the day. Unlike a traditional setting powder, this has a pressed gel texture that's very similar to Mally's Beauty Face Defender - although I find it to be a little thinner and less sticky. The texture requires pressing into skin with a sponge, rather than sweeping it on with a brush, but it lays completely smoothly, and creates a smooth barrier. Worn alone, it's effective at subtly evening out skin tone. While it does tone down some redness, it doesn't completely reduce it. I have to say, this is how I prefer wearing it the most - but don't try to layer your typical makeup routine over top because it won't lay quite the same.

As a setting product goes, I can't say I like it very much. Not only does it not add any lasting power to my makeup, it doesn't lay quite as well over my makeup as a setting powder does - take a look at the side-by-side below, and let me know what you think!

Overall, neither of these products were a hit, and given the price tag, they need to wow me!

See more pictures after the jump!

The rehab duo your summer hair needs stat

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:16:00 +0000

This post was sponsored by Target.

For all the fun warm weather can bring, the summer sun means anything but a good time for your hair. Between extended hours under its strong rays, getting hyper-drenched in chlorine, and being too distracted by the beautiful weather to schedule a regular cut (no, just me?), my hair is seven kinds of damaged by the end of summer. When my everyday conditioner can't cut it, I start looking for alternatives that provide some serious hair therapy. Enter my two new beauty finds from the Target Beauty Box:

Fekkai Pre-Soleil Hair Mist: This spray prevents UV damage, like color fading and dulling. Spritz it on damp or dry hair before you step out the door for a layer of protection that also packs a glossy sheen. The citrus and floral scents make this an especially refreshing summer spritzer!
Hair Food Mask: For hair that's already taken a licking, you need to bring out the big guns and reach for a hydrating mask to infuse moisture and condition. Despite the serious TLC it gives hair, it's a super quick application - just comb through damp hair and rinse! It's easiest to use mid-shower, right after you've washed your hair. For a little extra conditioning, leave it in through the rest of the shower, and rinse at the end. Fair warning: the honey apricot fragrance might make you want to keep it on all day.

Between the two of them, these products are a dynamic duo that will inject the life back into summer locks.

Find your style @TargetStyle.

Top 5 "One & Done" Eye Shadows

noreply@blogger.com (Bailey B) — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:04:00 +0000

This video was inspired by the look I was wearing my most recent favorites video - look for a tutorial coming soon! All it took was one shadow, to create a multi-dimensional, long-lasting look. It reminded me that there are so many of these "one and done" shadows out there, so I'm sharing my top 5! Let me know what yours are in the comments below.

My Top 5:

ELF Smudge Pots - These are easily the best budget pick. The shimmer in these is ultra-fine, but apparent enough to create gorgeous dimension with just one shade.
Colourpop Super Shock Shadows - No matter what kind of finish or color you're after, Colourpop has it, and in a formula that applies boldly and lasts all day!
Marc Jacobs Twinkle Pop Shadow Sticks - These are splurge items, but totally worth it for the easy way they glide on and cool as they set - perfect for itchy, allergy eyes that need a little TLC in the morning!
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize - These have more of a mousse texture that makes them buildable from a sheer wash of color across the lid, to an intensely foiled effect.
MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Shadows - For those who prefer powder shadows, these apply with maximum opacity, and rarely require primer (on my eyes, at least) to stay put for a solid 8 hours.