Welcome to My Dollhouse

Chanel CC Cream Review + Demonstration

2013-08-19T16:44:00.000-07:00

Before

After

I'd like to start out my post saying that I am sorely disappointed that Chanel only released one shade of this product. There is only one color, Beige 20. The shade is certainly not universal nor even close to being universal. It will only match a very, very small percentage of women. This product would be immensely better and sell immensely better if it catered to every woman and not a select range. That being said, I absolutely love the formula and how it meshes with my skin. It's slightly too dark on me, so it doesn't really cater to the very fair-toned women either; however, the texture is able to blend enough into my skin to be wearable. It applies like silk, it lasts all day, and it feels very light. It provides that perfect "no-makeup makeup look"; I look fresh-faced and dewy, it appears very natural. If you are in the light skin tone range, give this product a try. If it doesn't work, Nordstrom has a fantastic return policy. However, Chanel really needs to rethink only releasing one shade. It's pretty sad when such a leading brand in cosmetics can't be wearable and accessible to every woman that wants to try it. I posted my video review where I demonstrate how the product applies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWGCD_THOSQ

Nars "And God Created The Woman" Set Review and Tutorial

2013-03-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

This is a review of the new Nars set, 'And God Created the Woman'. The set includes a palette of 6 eyeshadows, an eyeshadow primer, and a #3 eyeshadow brush.

The colors in the palette are Alhambra, Kalahari, Bellisima, Galapagos, Coconut Grove, and Night Clubbing. The eyeshadows are the perfect neutral colors, with a good variety. My personal favorite is Bellisima. They are 0.03 ounces, making them a little less than half the size of a typical 0.07 Nars eyeshadow. They are the quality you expect from Nars. The softer colors have less pigment than the darker colors on the bottom half of the palette. I would have posted swatches, but when I swatched them, they did not do the colors justice. The colors apply a lot more pigmented than they swatch.

The eyeshadow primer is wonderful: creamy, luxurious, and ensures your shadow lasts all day. After I filmed the tutorial, I wore the look for another 12+ hours with no creasing or fading. It keeps my eyeshadow intact when I'm at school all day as well. It's superb!

The brush is so soft. I wasn't expecting much since it was a free little brush, but it is very high quality. It is soft and durable. I like using it for blending shadows all over and with my highlight. It is a great little added bonus in this already fantastic set.

Be sure to watch my tutorial to see how I got the look:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZvd5pHF8Mk&feature=youtu.be

YSL Rouge Pur Couture MAT Lipstick

2012-08-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

This was taken in sunlight without flash
Orange Imagine: Above
Rouge Rock: Below

This was taken in sunlight with flash
Orange Imagine: Above
Rouge Rock: Below

I went to Nordstrom to pick up a Dior lipstick, but I saw that they had gotten the new Yves Saint Laurent Mat lipstick so I knew I had to swatch them for you. They unfortunately only had two of the three colors. They had Orange Imagine, or #201 (which is the color on top). They also had Rouge Rock or #203 (which is the color below Orange Imagine). They may look a bit similar, but Orange Imagine is definitely an orangey red and Rouge Rock is a pure, genuine red. The colors seemed to apply very buttery and smooth for a matte finish, which felt very luxurious. This is on my future "to buy" list.

Chanel Prelude (#33) Quad FOTD

2012-07-29T15:57:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased the Chanel Les Quatre Ombres in Prelude, or #33. I wore it for the first time out the other day and decided to show you guys my look or face of the day. The quad consists of four neutral colors, all gorgeous. Chanel has the ability to make such luxuriously buttery shadows, and I love the fact that all four colors blend harmoniously. I went for a smokier look on my eyes and kept the rest of the face neutral. And if you can't tell, yes, I'm wearing false eyelashes! They're the subtle yet fluttery MAC #20 outer corner lashes. I'd been wearing this look for a good 8 hours or so, so the makeup is not flawless and I look a bit disheveled. However, I was pleased with my impromptu makeup look using this lovely quad so I decided to share it.

Here are the products I'm wearing:

Chanel quad in 'Prelude'

Bobbi Brown Gel liner in 'Black Ink'

Diorshow 'New Look' mascara in 'Black'

MAC false eyelashes in '#20'

Yves Saint Laurent eyebrow pencil in '#3' or 'Glazed Brown'

Benefit blush in 'Bella Bamba'

Yves Saint Laurent lipgloss in '#38'

Chanel Fall + Asia Exclusive (Le Blanc) Collection 2012 Swatches

2012-07-18T19:28:00.002-07:00

Here is a soft wash of Riviere all over my lid.

I'm wearing Riviere and Fleur de Lotus here.

Here's Fleur de Lotus blush on my cheeks by itself. It provides a nice sheen.

Here are my cheeks after I added Lumiere D'Artifices Beiges as a highlight.

The next two photos show the highlighter a little closer. It's quite sparkly because it has a sparkle overspray, as I stated in my review.

To read a full review of each products, visit my blog post: http://vintageporcelaindoll.blogspot.com/2012/07/chanel-fall-asia-exclusive-collection.html

I decided to actually apply the products on my face rather than do the traditional swatching routine. They all apply beautifully and it really can help those considering these products get a feel for how they'll look on. I hope this post helps!

Riviere doesn't disappoint in color and texture. It's so silky, and the color is a fresh mint that brightens eyes instantly. I paired it with Stylo Yeux Waterproof in Beige Clair in my waterline to brighten my eyes, and Stylo Yeux Waterproof in Silver Light underneath to further accentuate the beautiful mint/silver color of the shadow. I decided not to apply mascara or any lip product because it might take away from the other makeup showcased.

I truly love how the Joues Contraste blusher in Fleur de Lotus looks on me. It certainly will flatter all skin tones and provide a subtle sheen with a pop of color. This blush is a must-have!

If you read the captions provided with each picture, you'll see that after applying the blush, I applied the Lumiere D'Artifices Beiges highlighting powder. It looks quite sparkly here because it has a glitter overspray. The color is so beautiful and unique for a highlighter and should be universally flattering.

Don't forget to read my review if you haven't already, it'll provide more information on these lovely products, and where to find them! Also, go watch my video on Youtube showing the products: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDPG3w9mqVU

Chanel Fall + Asia Exclusive Collection 2012 Review

2012-07-18T19:09:00.002-07:00

Here are the three items I purchased from the Asia-Exclusive collection

This is the ever so coveted 'Fleur de Lotus' blush. It really is that gorgeous.

Here's a photo of the minty 'Riviere' Illusion D'ombre.

Here's the Beige Clair waterproof eyeliner.

Here is the gorgeous sequin powder, star of the Fall Collection.

As you can see, the glitter layer on top gives it that gorgeous glisten.

Here is the waterproof eyeliner in 'Silver Light'.

As promised in my video showing Chanel's latest collections, I'm finally posting pictures on my blog. I will do another post shortly after this showing the products on me. To find the coveted Asia-Exclusive collection, you have to get it through Nordstrom. At Nordstrom, they know it as the "Anniversary Sale Collection". These products will sell fast, so I recommend asking about this collection sooner than later. As for the Fall Collection, they will have these items at every high-end department store and should be fairly easy to access. The sequin highlighter is gorgeous, and so is the silver eyeliner. Those products are the only products of the Fall Collection that I felt I had to have.

After seeing the blush, Joues Contraste in Fleur de Lotus, I was in love. I'm a fan of blush anyway but this blush takes the cake. It has the most subtle, gorgeous glow due to its perfectly baked texture. It is a very unique color, in the respect that it'll go with any makeup look. It's not decidedly pink, and its not decidedly coral. It will flatter any makeup collection and will sell out very quickly.

The Illusion D'ombre in Riviere doesn't fall short of incredible. The texture is silky and creamy, and the color is a bright, fresh minty green with silver tones. This color pops and should look incredible on everyone.

The Stylo Yeux Waterproof in 'Beige Clair' is the perfect eyeliner to brighten and awaken tired eyes. I think this particular shade of beige should work on anyone from light to medium skin tones. It is more flattering than a stark white because its so close to natural skin color and will eliminate all redness and tiredness in the waterline. It stays on all day because of the waterproof formula so it will really stay in your waterline. I'm really in love with this eyeliner and will continue to use it frequently.

The Lumiere D'artifices Beiges is a gorgeous beige highlighter that literally looks like sequins. The print on it is raised, so it's like a 3-D pile of sequins laying ever so elegantly on the powder. It has a lighter beige, and a deeper beige, so the two colors will highlight and flatter most skin tones. It has a glitter overspray on top, that fades after the first one or two uses and leaves the product underneath which is a shimmery beige powder. The first couple of uses will be quite glittery though, as you can see in my next post by how it looks on my face. Overall I think this is a great highlighter with a gorgeous color, beige isn't your typical highlighter color, but it really works.

The Stylo Yeux Waterproof in 'Silver Light' is a flattering silver eyeliner. It isn't over the top bright like a glitter liquid liner would be. I use it to accent my Illusion D'ombre shadows, it adds a nice bright touch of silver color that is subtle but beautiful. Its one of those eyeliners that can just add a little something in the inner corner or underneath to accentuate a beautiful shimmery shadow on the lid without overpowering the look.

Tarina Tarantino Emerald Pretty Palette

2012-07-14T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a close-up of the look I created using this lovely palette.

Here is the palette in its box.

Here's a look at the palette, I love the shape of it, very unique!

Here are the colors: Glenda's Kiss, Silver Shoes, Dandy Lion, Saw Dust Heart, Ozma, and Very Wicked.

The entire palette opened, it has a nice sized mirror.

Here are my swatches, without flash. From left to right: Very Wicked, Ozma, Saw Dust Heart, Dandy Lion, Silver Shoes, Glenda's Kiss

Here are my swatches, with flash. From left to right: Very Wicked, Ozma, Saw Dust Heart, Dandy Lion, Silver Shoes, Glenda's Kiss

This palette inspired by the Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz is definitely a must have for both fans of the movie and fans of beautiful makeup. It retails for $35 at Sephora and is well worth every penny spent. It is not limited edition (so there's no rush!). The possibilities are endless and brought out my creative side. I highly recommend this to everyone looking for a good quality palette to add to their makeup collection for creating everyday looks or smokey night-out looks. The colors will pop on everyone!

Please see my video on Youtube to watch how I created the look and a video review: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvfHhZ7_w4c

Here's where to purchase the palette: http://www.sephora.com/P309919?skuId=1383389

Oceanic Aquamarine Makeup

2012-05-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

The inspiration for this look comes directly from the water in the ocean. From the deep blue marine tones to the light aqua seafoam washing up with every wave, this look is an ode to the ocean. I paired it with a coral red-orange lip to accent the blue-green color scheme on the eyes. I couldn't help myself and painted my nails with the new Deborah Lippmann color, "Mermaid's Dream", it was too perfect for this makeup. I had to snap a couple of pictures of my nails with the makeup, and as you can see, the combination is a match made in heaven. This look is eye-catching and ideal for a fun summer night. To find out how to achieve this look, please watch my Youtube tutorial:

Don't forget to comment if you like this look! Let me know if you want to see more bright looks!

Products Used:

MAC eyeshadow in 'Surf USA'
MAC eyeshadow in 'Royale'
Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in 'Flipside'
Stila Smudgepot in 'Cobalt'
Givenchy quad in #79 or 'Bucolic Blossoms'
Diorshow New Look mascara
MAC lipstick in 'Hibiscus'
MAC Dazzleglass in 'Eurobeat'
Tarte Amazonian Clay blush in 'Achiote'

Prom Pictures!

2012-05-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a view of my hair from the back; I did a simple, low side bun.

Here's a view of my hair from the side, you can also see my earrings and hair clip.

I snapped a photo of my ring to show the intricate, vintage detailing.

Here's a photo of me in my dress.

I had to post this picture of my wonderful mother, my sweet puppy Amélie, and I. I think it's too cute!

I recently went to prom and wanted to share a few photos with you. They are not incredibly picturesque as they were snapped quickly before we left at a friend's house. I did my own hair and makeup, and would be more than happy to film a tutorial of this look. To find out where I purchased all of the items I'm wearing, please read below:

Dress- BCBGMAXAZRIA

Shoes- BCBGMAXAZRIA

Earrings- Nordstrom, by Nadri

Barrette- Nordstrom, designer unknown

Clutch- My mom's, she purchased it at Nordstrom's

Ring- Givenchy

Nail Polish- OPI Black Onyx

Guerlain Emilio Pucci Tutorial

2012-05-02T15:22:00.001-07:00

This is a look featuring Guerlain's Summer 2012 Emilio Pucci collection. I used the quad, Capri, and the Terra Azzurra bronzing powder. At first I contemplated needing this quad, but after purchasing it with the help of a coupon, I love it. Everyone of all ages need this quad; the colors are rich, summery, and provide every color you need for a signature summer look. I filmed a tutorial using this quad that I'm quite pleased with. It uses all of the colors and creates a defined, elegant, stunning result. I'm wearing the look in the photo of me showing the quad, and the photo below is a close up of the look. The pigmentation is unbelievably vivid and the colors flow seamlessly together. To see how I achieved this look, please visit my tutorial on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RADlBf6mNGI

Please look forward to swatches of the other items in the collection, I'll do a post on that soon :)

Tarte 'Gifts From The Lipstick Tree' Achiote Color Collection

2012-04-14T22:14:00.003-07:00

Here are swatches of all three products, on the far left is the Maracuja lip gloss. In the center is the Lip Surgence lip pencil, and on the right is the Amazonian Clay blush.

Achiote is a tree from South America, AKA the 'Lipstick Tree' that Brazilian women have used to pigment their lips and cheeks for ages. Tarte made this amazing secret pigment readily available for every woman by bundling it into one incredible, pigmented set. The 'Gifts From The Lipstick Tree' set is a steal at $42, it's worth is $70. This is such a phenomenal set because all three products are full-sized. It comes with a Maracuja lip gloss, a Lip Surgence Lip Luster, and an Amazonian Clay blush. They're all in the color 'Achiote'. Achiote is a natural tree from Brazil that produces a natural pigment, which gives these products a gorgeous coral color. All three products are incredibly pigmented and long lasting, which is a specialty of Tarte products. I believe all of the products in this set are also exclusive to this set. You can pick up this set at Sephora and Tarte, and I urge you to purchase it ASAP if you want it because deals like this don't last long. This set IS limited-edition so check it out!

http://www.sephora.com/gifts-from-the-lipstick-tree-achiote-color-collection-P310016?skuId=1404623
http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-gifts-from-the-lipstick-tree-Achiote-color-collection

Here is a more in depth description of how each of these products work for me:

The Amazonian Clay blush has been a favorite of mine the first time I tried it. The 'Achiote' color is a nice matte coral blush, with the signature Amazon river printed on it. The blush is silky, pigmented, and blends wonderfully. This would be ideal for someone starting out in makeup. This blush is known for staying on all day, and has never let me down.

The Maracuja lip gloss is wonderful. It's very creamy, and unlike most glosses, it doesn't feel sticky. It's nice and smooth while applying it, and has a long lasting shine.

The Lip Surgence lip luster is a thick lip pencil that goes on smoothly and easily. It gives the effect of a beautiful lipstick, without the hassle. The color itself is very pigmented, it is a nice pop of coral with a beautiful golden luster. When it hits the light, this product is stunning. I was very impressed with the amount of pigment, and of course the long wear it provides.

All of the products are amazing quality, and they work for all skin tones because a beautiful pop of coral looks stunning on everyone. Based on pigment, wear, and ease with applying, every product gets an A+ in my book!

Rose from 'Titanic' Makeup Tutorial

2012-04-07T20:57:00.001-07:00

Rose is the leading lady in the epic, Titanic. Her makeup is soft, elegant, and natural. I've always admired her makeup in the film, so I decided to recreate the look myself. Here's a link to my tutorial on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IL2lQ4BKp3E

Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Toundra'

2012-04-04T15:44:00.001-07:00

Currently at Sephora, you can purchase a Nars Matte Velvet lip pencil in 'Toundra' for $10. This is an extraordinary deal because their lip pencils usually retail for $24. Also, Sephora has a coupon going on for an extra 15% off your entire purchase by using the code 'CHICVIB' or 'CHICWEEK'.

This lip pencil is a gorgeous rustic cranberry, with a slight metallic sheen to it. It's incredibly pigmented and would pop on anyone's complexion. Also, it's easy to apply and take with you. This would look especially stunning in the fall, but equally as stunning all year round. Don't miss out on this amazing deal and product, you'll love it!

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P308118&shouldPaginate=true&categoryId=3976

Lumenesse Review

2012-04-03T16:57:00.002-07:00

After getting highlights, I sought out the perfect, non-drying, sulfate-free shampoo. From browsing Costco's website, I found this incredible deal and wonderful company. Their products are natural, sulfate-free, paraben-free, and they don't test on animals. I purchased the moisturizing formula because that was what Costco had available, but they also make a high volume set. I did an in-depth review on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxPPtK0Hs0o&feature=youtu.be

Here's where to find their products: http://www.pharmagel.net/

Costco abruptly removed the set I showed in the video from their website. They replaced it- with something better! This time around, in addition to the wonderful big bottles of shampoo and conditioner, they included a round brush. They also now carry the 'High Volume' set, which I definitely want to try. I hope you all check these products out!

MAC Lady Danger Tutorial

2012-03-26T15:52:00.001-07:00

This tutorial features the beloved MAC lipstick, 'Lady Danger'. This bright orange-red lipstick packs a punch and livens any look. Please watch my tutorial to see how I achieved this look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySwxSKfZaag&feature=youtu.be

Products Used:

Nars Sheer Matte foundation in 'Siberia'
Tarte Eraser concealer in 'Porcelain' or '00'
Laura Mercier brow duo in 'Deep Blonde'
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
MAC eyeshadow in 'Short Shorts'
MAC eyeshadow in 'Going Bananas'
MAC eyeshadow in 'Sorcery'
Bobbi Brown Gel liner in 'Black Ink'
Chanel Inimitable mascara in 'Noir'
MAC lipstick in 'Lady Danger'
Chanel 'Horizons de Chanel' blush
MAC Special Reserve highlighter in 'Rosé Olé'

Betsey Johnson Nail Polish!

2012-03-23T16:49:00.001-07:00

I'm wearing 'It's My Pink!' with 'Sparkling Personality' on my ring finger, and a bow sticker over it.

'Alley Cat', a beautiful fuschia color.

Here's a swatch of 'Alley Cat' on my nails. The color goes on very nicely.

Here's 'It's My Pink' in the adorable box it comes in!

Here's 'It's My pink' alone on my nails.

Here's 'Sparkling Personality'. As you can see, my camera picked up the gorgeous multi-colored glitter.

Here's 'Sparkling Personality' on top of 'It's My Pink' on my ring finger. As you can see, it's anything but sheer. It's a little too opaque to pair with anything underneath.

Here are the ADORABLE stickers! The designs include cherry, bows, and lightening bolts.

This collection was a must-have for someone like me, a big Betsey Johnson fan. I love the fun colors and attention to detail this collection included. I bought three of the seven colors, all are gorgeous. The colors I picked up were: It's My Pink, Sparkling Personality, and Alley Cat. From the swatches, you can tell the colors are pigmented, the polish is good quality, and it is too cute to pass up. Not to mention this collection will go fast. Please see my Youtube video for more information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxslykF4exw&feature=youtu.be

Tarte Cosmetics

2012-03-22T18:52:00.000-07:00

I'm currently wearing the Tarte Rise and Shine gloss and stain in 'Cherry'

I recently purchased a few things off the Tarte website, all of the items were on sale for $10. Tarte is an innovative, animal-friendly, natural cosmetics company. I love their products and so I was ecstatic when I saw their sale online. Please watch my video for more information on what I purchased and how everything is working for me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xm2Hz1ADys&feature=g-u-u&context=G27f6a77FUAAAAAAAAAA

Amélie's a Barbie Girl! (Barbie for Petsmart Collection)

2012-03-02T18:36:00.001-08:00

Amélie rocking the hot pink Barbie top and leopard skirt look.

Here's a closeup of the sequins on her Barbie shirt.

A photo of the adorable Barbie bows.

Here's a close up of the sparkly details on the "I'm all about the sparkle" top.

Here's a photo of her wearing the sparkle top and a matching purple sequined Barbie bow.

Here is a closeup of her wearing the polka dot Barbie bow.

I paired the Barbie top with the adorable Barbie tutu, it makes a great combination!

Here is the adorable bandana/scarf with a polka dot Barbie heart.

Here is a closeup of the detail on the scarf.

Recently at Petsmart, they released a Barbie collection. The collection is small but so cute, I show the entire collection in these photos. My Maltese, Amélie, proudly modeled the collection so you all could see how cute everything looks! I hope you check out the collection, it's too cute to pass up! To see my haul showing the clothing, please check out my Youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9hvH_0qie0

Some Culinary Adventures This Weekend

2012-02-26T18:05:00.001-08:00

Delicious Chocolate Muffins

Chicken with a Dijon Mustard Sauce and Asparagus on the side.

Garlic Cheese Bread

Garlic Cheese Bread with Marinara for Dipping

This weekend we tried different recipes, all delicious. Firstly, we made 'Chocolate Muffins', a recipe by JoyofBaking.com, the recipe is here: http://www.joyofbaking.com/muffins/ChocolateMuffins.html

They are incredibly rich and moist, perfect with a good cup of coffee. The adjustments I made were small, I firstly added a bit more buttermilk, as I found the first time I made them to be slightly dry and too dense for my liking. I also used kosher salt, which really accentuated the chocolate flavor. I also used milk chocolate chips from Ghirardelli and garnished them with a few on top as well. They are overall a wonderful breakfast/brunch item and my whole family liked them.

The 'Sauteed Chicken in Mustard-Cream Sauce' was a recipe my mom found on Martha Stewart's website, and it is a new family favorite. You can find the recipe here: http://www.marthastewart.com/318298/sauteed-chicken-in-mustard-cream-sauce

This dish is not only extremely simple to make, but the flavors are exquisite. The sauce brings the whole meal together and the asparagus complement the dish. The only adjustment we made was substituting dill for the tarragon. The dill worked nicely with the subtle dijon flavor. I recommend this dish for a quick, simple dish with a big flavor payoff.

The 'Cheesy Garlic Bread' is a recipe for Laura Vitale. Here is the recipe from her site: http://www.laurainthekitchen.com/all/episode.php?episodenumber=288, you can also watch her video on Youtube.

I liked the texture, the crisp bread with a tender middle and melted cheese was incredible. It was simple to make, we blended the spread in our Blendtec and it pureed it to perfection. The taste was good, however slightly bold for my family's liking. The garlic was quite strong, and maybe too much for my taste, and the parsley was a little rich. I'm not a big fan of parsley anyway, though. So if you don't like parsley, I'd skip the parsley or this recipe altogether. Overall, I love the concept and simplicity of this recipe, and I will make this again, but perhaps not as pungent as before and adapt this to my tastes.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-15T14:18:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day! I baked red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, and freshly shaved Godiva chocolate to top it off. Very decadent and rich, but delicious! I intended to get this post up yesterday, officially on Valentine's Day, but I enjoyed spending time with family. I hope you enjoy these pictures, and in case you're wondering, the recipe is from foodwishes. I can confirm that they are dangerously delicious and this is a great recipe to follow. Anyway, I'll have a new tutorial up soon and I hope you're all having a great week so far!

Chanel Lagons Quad

2012-02-11T14:54:00.000-08:00

This look is a fun, bright look with a tropical flair. The eyes have an ocean-like effect with the soft but bold hues. The lips and cheeks are a pop of warmth to contrast the coolness in the eyes, using YSL Rouge Volupté in 'Rose Paris' and Tarte Amazonian Clay blush in 'Tipsy'. Both bring a warm, tropical feel to the look. To see a tutorial on how to achieve this look, please watch my Youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqGqfojAPv0

Products Used:

Chanel 'Lagons' quad
Diorshow eyelash primer
Tarte 'Lights, Camera, Lashes!' mascara
MAC 'Themyscira' blue mascara
Tarte Amazonian Clay blush in 'Tipsy'
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté lipstick in 'Rose Paris'

Products on face:

Chanel Teint Innocence foundation in '0.5' or 'Albatre'
Laura Mercier brow duo in 'Deep Blonde'
Too Faced Shadow Insurance

Guerlain Cruel Gardenia

2012-02-01T22:26:00.000-08:00

The outside of the packaging, classic Guerlain meteorite design. The packaging consists of a glossy black container with a lid that twists off, and locks when you close it.

From this side view, you can tell that it is a raised 3-D flower design.

It's a very intricate design, the packaging is stunning.

Here is a photo with the Guerlain meteorites brush. This is what is recommended to apply the product with. Any blush brush works fine but for best results, this is a good investment.

Here is a photo of the powder on my face close up. You can see how fine the shimmer is but it catches the light beautifully.

In these photos I kept my makeup simple and only applied the Cruel Gardenia to my cheeks, I'm not wearing any bronzer or blush.

After seeing Guerlain's Spring collection, I knew I needed this powder. It is the most coveted item in not only Guerlain's Spring collection, but of any of the Spring collections. It surpassed expectations and captivated all makeup counters, becoming the buzz at every department store. I love Guerlain and their elegant, natural makeup. Their motto is to give a glow from within, without looking like intense shimmer. This product gives a soft, candlelit glow and catches the light in a subtle way. The texture is not what I expected, primarily because I was told by a Nordstrom Guerlain representative that it was a cream but set like a powder. I was surprised when I swirled my Guerlain meteorite brush in the product because I didn't think I collected anything on the brush. I dipped my finger in the product to feel the texture, and to my surprise it was quite hard to the touch and heavily coated my finger. I then took the brush and applied it to my cheeks and found a soft gorgeous payoff, unlike any highlighter or powder I've used.

As for availability, it was extremely difficult and frustrating for me to find. I first attempted to get one from Nordstrom, only to find my Guerlain representative advising me that 'you are the only person I couldn't find this for'. I was told to 'just find it somewhere else' and 'I'll keep in touch'. I still haven't heard back. This left me disappointed and in a stressful predicament. I had to find the most coveted makeup item on the market. I first looked at all department stores websites. At the time, both Saks and Neiman Marcus were out of stock. The only place that had them was Dillard's. I ordered it, crossing my fingers they wouldn't reply with a notice letting me know it was out of stock. After a week of an 'on order' status, I called to see what the current situation with availability was. They finally and thankfully told me they had found one and were shipping it. In the interim, I called a few stores off of the Guerlain site, which included all counters. I got a hold of a Neiman Marcus Guerlain counter in Hawaii, and asked if they had any. They did, and so I kept that as a back up in case Dillard's didn't pull through. If you are having difficulty finding the Cruel Gardenia powder, don't hesitate to call various counters directly, and ask if they have any. As for stores having them online, as far as I know Neiman Marcus and Dillard's still had them up until yesterday. Your best bet is to call a counter and see if they have any by chance.

I want to add that due to Nordstrom forcing me to look elsewhere, it opened my eyes to other department stores with wonderful offers. Neiman Marcus was offering 3 samples, one including a generous tube sized sample of a $500+ Guerlain anti-aging cream. Neiman Marcus also has beauty offers by companies, and Guerlain was offering a free Kiss Kiss lipgloss. On a positive note, I'm glad this opened my eyes so that in the future, I will be purchasing makeup from whomever has the best freebies. Also, Dillard's packaged the powder beautifully, they sent it in a nice box wrapped in tissue.

My overall review of this product is that it is beautiful and unique. The product is expensive, and you are paying for the allure of Guerlain and their outstanding packaging and originality. As far as the actual product, it is a nice powder with a fine texture. It's not over the top and overly noticeable, keeping it similar to other Guerlain powders. At a costly $67, you are paying for the exquisite packaging and the Guerlain name. I think it's worth every penny, especially to an avid makeup collector. It is limited edition, so if you have any interest, I advise you to try and find one immediately. There are no dupes for this timeless powder as far as I know, and I think this would make an excellent addition to any makeup collection.

Guerlain Les Roses Tutorial

2012-01-31T18:29:00.000-08:00

Bouquet de Roses: A Valentine's Day Tutorial

This look is like a Jane Austen novel; it's subtle, romantic, and slightly bold. It is sweet and captivating, it appears both bright-eyed and sultry all in one look. I wanted to steer away from frilly cliché Valentine looks; I strived for a unique, elegant, and simply romantic look. This look was achieved by starring my Guerlain 'Les Roses' quad, which had the perfect blend of rosy and plum tones.

To see my full tutorial, please visit my Youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8A4wYauax4

List of Products Used:

Guerlain 'Les Roses' quad

Benefit 'High Brow'

Tarte EmphasEYES Amazonian Clay liner in 'Plum'

Diorshow mascara base

Diorshow Unlimited mascara

Chanel blush in 'Horizon de Chanel'

Laura Mercier lip glacé in 'Rose'

Blush Collection

2012-01-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

I recently filmed my blush collection showing the blushes I own. This enables viewers to request looks with certain items in my collection that they own as well. Please see my video on Youtube to see my collection: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P03FNhXp_1A

Blushes Mentioned:

MAC blush in 'Pink Swoon'
Yves Saint Laurent blush in '05'
Benefit blush in 'Bella Bamba'
Benefit blush in 'Sugarbomb'
Chanel Blush Horizon de Chanel
Tarte for True Blood cheekstain
Tarte Amazonian Clay blush in 'Adored'
Tarte Amazonian Clay blush in 'Tipsy'
Nars Multiple in 'Orgasm'
Nars blush in 'Angelika'
Nars blush in 'Deep Throat'
Nars blush in 'Dolce Vita'
Nars Danmari blush palette

Guerlain Spring 2012 Makeup

2012-01-13T21:31:00.000-08:00

This entire collection is worth checking out, but especially the Cruel Gardenia meteorite powder. This collection suits all ages and skin tones, making it timeless and exceptional. I haven't had the opportunity to purchase any of the items from the collection yet, but I created this look inspired by their ad based on the products I have. I love this look because it combines a strong, dark eye with a subtle feminine lip. It definitely sets Guerlain's collection apart from others this Spring and I can't wait to see what they come out with next!

Products Used:

Nars Sheer Matte in 'Siberia'
Laura Mercier brow duo in 'Deep Blonde'
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner in 'Black Ink'
Chanel quad in 'Lagons'
Diorshow Lash Primer
Tarte 'Lights, Camera, Lashes!' mascara
Benefit 'Bella Bamba' blush
Chanel Rouge Coco in 'Rose Comete'

To watch a tutorial on this look, please visit my Youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwVQeRC3bmM&feature=youtu.be