A Brilliant Brunette

Glide into Summer with Verseo’s eGlide & Cellulite Massager Giveaway!

2013-05-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

Verseo is a New York based company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of quality health and beauty products. Verseo’s motto is simple - Health And Beauty Direct. Verseo.com is their online consumer channel selling their own products as well as a selection of other Health & Beauty related products from other vendors since 1999. Verseo is a family oriented business with everyone pitching in with everything from customer service to shipping out the products from their warehouse.

Now, here's your chance to win these 2 awesome products from Verseo:

RollerCell2 Cellulite MassagerVerseo's RollerCell2 is a best-selling Endermologie system that you can use at home. It basically takes the same functionality of a salon Endermologie tool and turns it into a portable device. The system comes with Cellulite-Reducing Gel that you smooth over your skin so that you can easily glide the RollerCell2 over the skin. The rollers, suctions and heating mechanisms then work on the skin to distribute the underlying fat cells into a smoother surface. The Verseo RollerCell2 can be purchased for under $60, which is usually less than even ONE Endermologie salon treatment.

The RollerCell2 has been featured on TheDoctors TV show as a true alternative for cellulite reduction. With work schedules, most of our free time is left to nighttime when salons are not open. The treatments can be done at home whenever it is convenient and appropriate for each individual.

eGlide Roller Electrolysis SystemVerseo eGlide was first introduced to the market a couple of years ago after success with their other hair removal product – Verseo ePen. You use the conductive gel (included, special offer includes additional one) in conjunction with the eGlide and roll over the area you would like to treat. With continued use, the hair follicle is damaged preventing the growth of ongoing hair. Significantly cheaper than laser hair removal and less painful than waxing – eGlide is the easiest way to remove hair permanently and painlessly from the comfort of your home.

Limited Time Offers!Purchase Verseo eGlide today for $89.95 and you’ll receive an Extra Free Conductive Gel ($19.95 value) & free US Standard Shipping – Special Offer is available HERE.

Limited Time Offer: Purchase Verseo’s RollerCell2 Cellulite Massage System today for $59.95 and get and extra cellulite massging gel free! $19.95 Value. Special Offer available HERE.

ENTER HERE!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

FOTD: Violet Starred Sky

2013-05-18T22:31:00.002-07:00

I'm loving this interesting combo using MAC Star Violet and some warm browns, paired with bright sky blue mascara from CK One. The mascara is what really set this look apart and gave it some flare. If you want to know more about this awesome blue mascara, check out my blog post HERE!

PRODUCTS
BROWS
Anastasia Brow Genius Kit in Medium Ash
MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base and along bottom waterline)
MAC eyeshadows in Star Violet (lid), Naked Lunch (inner lid), Texture (crease and optical bone), Brun and Swiss Chocolate(outer V/Swiss Chocolate on bottom lashline)
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (brow and inner corner highlight)
Lorac liquid liner in Dark Brown (winged liner)
Benefit Bad Gal Lash Waterproof Mascara in Black
CK One Mascara in Electrify (blue mascara)
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE
MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NW25
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
MAC Studio Fix Powder in C2 (under eye concealer/brightener)
NYX Matte Bronzer in Medium (bronzer)
MAC Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Definitely Defined (highlight)
wet n wild blush in Mellow Wine(blush)

LIPS
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Plumful and Sophisto

Anastasia Bold and Beautiful Kit Swatches, Review, and Photos (and an EOTD)

2013-05-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

Anastasia says:

Vol. 1 Bold Brows
Brow Powder, Pomade, Mini Duo Brush, and Mini Tweezers allow you to sculpt, define, and beautifully layer color for perfect brows.

Vol. 2 Beautiful Eyes
Four matte and shimmering shadows in versatile neutrals are the perfect shades to finish any look. Layer them wet and dry to create anything from a subtle, sheer wash of color to an intense, nude smoky eye.

Price: $36
Available at Ulta, Sephora, and online retailers

Swatches from top:
Brow wax, brow powder (the hand-drawn brow), and eyeshadows

Eyes:
MAC Painterly Paintpot as a base, all Anastasia Beautiful Eyes eyeshadows, and Anastasia black eyeliner

The Good:
The brow box is awesome - great quality tools and cosmetics
The eyeshadow box is also awesome - 4 shadows of varying texture and a good brush
Great for travel!

The Bad:
The brow box only comes in 1 color so it's limiting.

Overall:
I've heard varied opinions on this set, but I personally love it. The brow box is awesome and super convenient, and the color works great for me. I also really liked the eyeshadow box. The colors are soft and easy to wear; very versatile taking you from natural to dramatic. I will say though, that if you want the eyeshadows to show up like in my look above, you need a good cream base, not just a primer. If you prefer a soft look, a primer alone will work fine.

While this set works for me, with the brow palette only coming in one color, I'm not sure if it's for everyone. It gets an A from me though.

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Milani Color Statement Lipstick Swatches (PLUMS)

2013-04-28T18:28:00.001-07:00

If you haven't tried Milani's new Color Statement lipsticks yet, you seriously need to get on it. With so many gorgeous new colors and a delicious watermelon scent/flavor, at only $5.79 each (available on MilaniCosmetics.com and at drugstores), you can't go wrong.

My personal favorites of these lipsticks are the PLUMS. Sangria is especially gorgeous and so SO close to my beloved MAC Rebel lipstick. A comparison post will be posted soon so stay tuned! But for now, here's the swatches...

Left to right:
Plumrose, Raspberry Rush, Uptown Mauve, Sangria, Chilled Brandy, Black Cherry, Violet Volt

My favorites:
Plumrose...a wearable, but gorgeous rose.
Sangria...a berry wine (like I said...almost a dupe of Rebel from MAC!)
Violet Volt...because hello? Did you see it? LOVE!

Have you tried the Color Statement lipsticks yet? Which colors are you loving?

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Hard Candy All Lid Up Creme Eyeshadow Swatches, Review, and Photos

2013-04-26T18:01:00.004-07:00

Hard Candy says:

Vibrant, long wearing crème eye shadow lights up and enhances eyes. Our groundbreaking hybrid formula has a soft cushion texture that allows it to be worn as eye shadow or eyeliner. This crease proof, stay put formula is blended luminous, multi-colored pearls that provides glamorous evening looks. Available in 10 gorgeous, vivid shades!

Price: $6
Available at Walmart stores and Walmart.com

After vigorously rubbing

The Good:
Gorgeous colors (10 shadows! Visit my INSTAGRAM to check them out!)
Great pigmentation
AWESOMELY long-wearing
Super affordable

The Bad:
The formula is a bit dry and takes some work to blend.

Overall:
Even though the formula is on the dry side, I still really love these All Lid Up eyeshadows. The dryness is easy to work with...I just apply it with my finger and use a brush to blend out the edges...simple as that! These shadows come in 10 different colors. There's a gold that I need. And a pink. And an orange. And...how about I keep it simple and say that I want all of them? Yeah. That works.

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Phillips Sonicare AirFloss - A gentle way to floss

2013-04-26T18:01:00.003-07:00

Sonicare says:

If flossing isn’t a regular part of your oral care routine, you’re not reaching the bacteria that can build up between teeth causing infection. Sonicare AirFloss helps you to get a deep clean everyday by taking the hassle out of flossing.

- Simple one-button use for easy cleaning in 60 seconds.
- Microburst technology applies a quick burst of pressurized air and micro-water droplets to clean deep between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach.
- The AirFloss lasts two weeks between charging.
- Easy-to-fill reservoir uses only a tiny amount of water for less mess. Fill with mouthwash for enhanced oral health benefits.
- Removes up to 99% more plaque between teeth than brushing with a manual toothbrush alone; Proven to improve oral health effectively.

Price: $89.99
Availability at Phillips-store.com

Overall:
New to the world of flossing is the Sonicare AirFloss. More gentle than manual flossing, the AirFloss delivers bursts or air and micro-droplets of water to clean between the teeth. With this machine, there's no risk of damaging your gums. I have to admit...when I first used this handy little gadget, I wasn't thrilled. I made a mess of my mirror and my face simply because I didn't have it positioned in my mouth properly (reading directions is a smart thing sometimes). After getting it right, the AirFloss was so much more pleasant. It did a nice job of cleaning my teeth, but because it's not as invasive as regular flossing though, it didn't do much in between my teeth...I also think it's because my teeth are pretty close together so getting air and water between them isn't the easiest thing.

I do think though, that the Sonicare AirFloss would be great for people with sensitive gums.

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Hard Candy Lip Def Glosses - Swatches, Review, and Photos

2013-04-17T23:42:00.001-07:00

Hard Candy says:
Imagine your lips…in 3D! Our super shiny lip color amplifies the shape of your lips with 3D pearls that create the illusion of depth and volume resulting in fuller, curvaceous lips. This triple duty lip color hydrates, fills and magnifies lips without feeling sticky or tacky.

Available at Walmart stores and Walmart.com

Price: $6 each

Overall:
These are awesome. Hard Candy is easily becoming one of my favorite drugstore brands and these Lip Def glosses just make that an even bigger fact. The way they're described (above), is totally accurate. Great shine, great effect, not sticky or tacky. Just pure greatness. I was sent Plum Show and Bashful for review, but quickly went out and bought Midnight Stroll myself. After wearing Plum Show (see it on my Instagram HERE...I'm only wearing a liptoned lipliner and Plum Show), I needed another.

They're fabulous!

Have you tried these glosses? What are your thoughts?

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

CLOSED Worldwide Group Giveaway -- WIN a $100 Sephora GiftCard

2013-04-16T23:30:00.001-07:00

Worldwide Group Giveaway -- WIN a $100 Sephora GiftCard

Join Glitz Glam Budget and 9 other bloggers in a WorldWide Celebration Giveaway, where one lucky winner will win a $100 Sephora Gift Card! Imagine the possibilities of what you can purchase with $100 at Sephora! Giveaway will run for 1 whole month (April 16th -May 16th)! So what are you waiting for, enter via the rafflecopter form below!

Here are the lovely sponsors of this giveaway:

Hairspray & High Heels

Miranda's Makeup & More

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**TERMS & CONDITIONS:
Giveaway is open Internationally to residents ages 18 and over and ends at
11:59pm EST on May 16th, 2013. Number of entries received determines the odds
of winning. Approximate retail value is $100.00. One winner will be selected.
This is a giveaway sponsored as a group buy, which means the bloggers pooled
their money together to purchase this product for you. Winner will drawn by
random.org from all verified entries, contacted by email provided, and
announced on this page at the end of the contest. Winner has 48 hours to
respond or prize will be redrawn. Protected tweets do not count as an entry
method for tweeting. Tweets must come from a public account. Bloggers in this
group giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot
enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

Ocean Sunrise Eyes w/ Step-by-Step Details

2013-04-12T23:29:00.000-07:00

A huge thanks to Alexandra T. on Facebook, who thought of the name for this look! I think it's pretty fitting. Blue for the ocean...purple and gold on top for those twilight/early morning colors. Perfect name!

I used a mixture of products for this look...Urban Decay, MAC, and Bare Minerals! Keep reading for how I got the look and a full list of products!

GET THE LOOK
1. Apply a primer/base to the entire eye area.
2. Pack a purple shadow onto your lid leaving the middle bare. (MAC Trax eyeshadow)
3. Using a blending brush, blend out the edges of the purple eyeshadow, taking the color onto the browbone a bit.
4. Apply your choice of highlight to the browbone and inner corner. (MAC Naked Lunch eyeshadow)
5. To the bare middle portion of your lid, pack on a gold eyeshadow, blending is just slightly into the placement of the purple. (Bare Minerals True Gold eyeshadow)
6. Along your top lashline, smudge a black eyeliner or eyeshadow, just to deepen the area bit. (Urban Decay eyeliner in Zero)
7. Along your bottom lashline, apply a vibrant blue eyeliner. (Urban Decay Deviant eyeliner)
8. Add mascara, lashes, and whatever else...and you're done!

PRODUCTS
BROWS
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Billion Dollar Brows Brow Powder in Taupe
MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NW25
Milani Brow Pen in Taupe
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base and along bottom waterline)
MAC eyeshadow in Naked Lunch (highlight) and Trax (lid placement excluding middle)
Bare Minerals eyeshadow in True Gold (middle lid)
Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners in Zero and Deviant
Benefit Bad Gal Lash Waterproof Mascara in Black
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE
MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NW25
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
Loreal Bare Naturale Concealer in Light (under eye concealer/brightener)
Tarte Park Avenue Princess Bronzer (bronzer/contour)
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in So Ceylon (blush/highlight)

LIPS
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
Um...I don't remember what else. Sorry! <3

The Best Blue Mascara Ever

2013-04-07T23:26:00.001-07:00

I've always been a black mascara girl. I never ventured out into color. Too scary...yes. Even me, the one who wears tons of different eyeshadows, was afraid of colored mascara. And then I saw it.

Electrify, a new bold, beautiful, blue mascara by CK One (only available at Ulta). I was still hesitant but I just couldn't resist it's bright, eye-catching hue. I mean...look at it.

Gorgeous, right? Oh and the brush is adjustable. The longer brush is for definition, and with a quick twist of the handle, is squishes down into a little volumizing brush. Genius!

If you're curious about the color payoff...awesome (2 coats on top/3 on the bottom). Awesome wear-time too!

If you're curious, it also comes in a bright purple, black, brown, and charcoal. If you're looking for a bright purple it's just as fabulous as this gorgeous blue one.

I'm totally obsessed with this mascara now. Oh and you can find other pictures featuring this mascara on my Instagram! @BrilliantBrntte

Price: $18

Available at Ulta stores and on Ulta.com.

Have you tried CK One Color from Ulta yet? What do you think about this mascara?

Bright Pink and Purple Eyes feat. Urban Decay

2013-04-02T23:40:00.002-07:00

Long time no makeup/FOTD posts! I'm back now though with a bright and gorgeous look featuring Urban Decay.

Keep reading for a step-by-step on how to achieve this look, complete with a list of products!

GET THE LOOK
Step 1 - Apply a primer and/or base to your entire eye area...lid to brow, and under the eyes.
Step 2 - Highlight your browbone with a matte cream colored eyeshadow (Urban Decay ABC Gum).
Step 3 - To the lid, apply a bright a bright pink (UD Woodstock)
Step 4 - To the outer half of your lid, pack on a bright purple (UD Omen). Also apply this color along your bottom lashline.
Step 5 - With a blending brush, blend the lid colors into the crease a bit.
Step 6 - Blend a light purple/lavender onto your crease (US Asphyxia).
Step 7 - Add just a touch of black to your outer V, and also along your top lashline (UD Blackout).
Step 8 - To your inner corner, add a little UD Venus for a bit of a glowing highlight.

PRODUCTS
BROWS
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Billion Dollar Brows Brow Powder in Taupe
MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NW25
Milani Brow Pen in Taupe
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base and along bottom waterline)
Urban Decay eyeshadows in ABC Gum, Woodstock, Omen, Asphyxia, and Blackout
Benefit Bad Gal Lash Waterproof Mascara in Black
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE
wet n wild Coverall Crème Foundation in Light Medium
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
Loreal Bare Naturale Concealer in Light (under eye concealer/brightener)
Tarte Park Avenue Princess Bronzer (bronzer/contour)
wet n wild Bronzer/Highlighter in Reserve Your Cabana (highlight)

wet n wild Maldives Sky Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches, Review, and Photos

2013-04-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

The third of the four Fergie for wet n wild palettes. Keep reading to see how this one measured up!

Avalability: CLICK HERE and HERE

The packaging

Swatches

The Good:
Gorgeous!
Pigmented.
Awesome combination of colors.

The Bad:
Nothing really. I don't think anyway.
Availability might be an issue though.

Overall:
If you saw my other Fergie palette review (and this one too), you know that they haven't been on my must-have list. The Maldives Sky palette is a totally different story. I LOVE this one. The shadows are gorgeous, pigmented, and perfectly combined. I love these 5 shadows together! If you see this one, give it a try! For about $5 or so, you can't go wrong.

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

April's #brilliantbeautychallenge on Instagram!

2013-04-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

Are you on Instagram? If so, follow me and join my #brilliantbeautychallenge for the month of April!

Each day is a different theme!

Be sure to tag me (@BrilliantBrntte) and add #brilliantbeautychallenge to your posts!

Can't wait to see what you all come up with!

xoxo
Jacqueline~

Tell Me Tuesday: The Fuss About The FTC

2013-03-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

Tell Me Tuesday...a new weekly feature on ABrilliantBrunette.com! Every Tuesday I'll be posting a topic (usually beauty or blogger related) and we'll all chat about it. Enjoy!

For our first Tell Me Tuesday, I wanted to bring up the new FTC disclosure/disclaimer guidelines for U.S. bloggers so you all to know what's going on on my blog and the others you may follow. Actually, you may have heard about this already, but if you haven't check out Phyrra.net. She's got all the details there!

Anyway, the FTC is at it again with blogger regulations. As of a few years ago, bloggers had to start adding disclaimers to their posts stating whether they received an item for review, pay, and all that. No biggie. I complied, as did most of the other bloggers out there (that I know of anyway). Now the FTC is at it again, adding to the regulations. Basically, bloggers have to put our disclaimers above the fold of our posts and throughout them, so the first thing readers see is BOOM...THE DISCLAIMER...several times, all on your face, everywhere you look. I can understand this change, but as a blogger who has always complied with FTC regulations, and has never altered my opinion just because I received something for free, I find this a little ridiculous. Then there's the issue of print media such as magazines...they never disclose anything. Magazines are equally if not more responsible for selling and promoting products than bloggers are, yet they have no rules or regulations. Plus, tons of magazines also operate blogs, yet they're not held to the same standards as other U.S. bloggers are. It all just seems excessive and uneven. However, I'll of course be complying like always.

So, just so all of you are in on what's going on on ABrilliantBrunette.com, here's how my blog disclaimer buttons will look and what they all stand for. You can actually see one of these buttons in action HERE.

Simple and straight forward, the post contains products purchased by me. Obviously.

Posts with this button contain products sent by brands/PR companies for post consideration. All opinions are mine, and are not swayed by free products or compensation of any form.

Affiliate links are those that I make compensation from based on purchases readers make through the linked site. If a post contains an affiliate link, you'll see this button.

This button will be on certain giveaways and advertorial posts that are funded by a brand/PR company.

At times, this blog posts articles written by other writers. These types of posts contain links to sites related to the writer and/or shopping sites. I am paid to post these articles.

Note though, these buttons will ONLY be on product related posts, like swatches and reviews, and such. I'm not even going to start putting them on my artistry posts because those are rarely about the products. They're moreso about the look I'm sharing :)

So tell me! What are your thoughts on the FTC thing? Do you feel that the U.S. bloggers you follow are honest in their posts and disclaimers? Share in the comments!

the Balm Nude 'tude Palette Swatches, Review, and Photos

2013-03-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

Totally cute palette right? Keep reading to find out if it's more than just looks.

theBalm.com says:

Available on theBalm.com.
Price: $36

Packaging - In the sleeve

Out of the sleeve

The eyeshadows *wolf whistle* And yes...I used them already. I couldn't help it. I use this palette A LOT.

Swatches with no primer. Yeah...NO PRIMER. *swoon*
Top Row

Bottom Row

The Good
Um...did you see my swatches above with no primer? The pigmentation is insane.
The colors are wearable. You can go from day to night, sweet to sexy, and anything in between.
A nice mixture of finishes...matte, metallic, satin, shimmery. You name it, this palette has it.
The packaging! I'm a sucker for pin-up girls. They're too cute.
The price-- $36 for 12 awesome eyeshadows in an adorable palette? I think that's pretty good!

The Bad
Nothing!
Buy it. Now. ;)

Overall
This palette has been a favorite of mine since I got it around Christmastime. I use it nearly everyday. To me it's better than all of the "naked" and "nude" palettes out right now. If you're not keen on the suggestive pin-up girl packaging that I'm in love with, theBalm does offer a different version of this palette with the same colors...just without the toplessness and such.

I totally recommend picking up this palette if you like it too!

Do you like the colors in this palette? What are your thoughts?

wet n wild Dutchess Lounge Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches and Review

2013-03-22T23:58:00.000-07:00

Another wet n wild Fergie Collection post! Not too long ago you saw my swatches and review of the Desert Festival palette...nice, but wasn't crazy in love with it. Now it's time for the Dutchess Lounge palette, and again, it's nice but I'm not crazy in love.

The packaging

The swatches
The silver is sheer but sparkly.
The three middle colors all have matte black bases with various colors of reflects glitter in them. The first one is actually super similar to MAC Beauty Marked eyeshadow.
The purple is...purple. But not great.

The Good
The pigmentation of the 3 middle colors is awesome.
There's an almost exact dupe of MAC Beauty Marked eyeshadow and I LOVE that color.
Though sheer, I actually really like the silver. It's great for adding just a touch of sparkle to the inner eye.

The Bad
The other 2 black based shadows (not the Beauty Marked dupe) are way too similar and the sparkle just doesn't stick.
The purple just isn't pigmented. I had to build up the color to get that swatch and it's still sheer and patchy.

Overall
Sadly I'm really not fond of this palette as a whole. While I do like the the Beauty Marked dupe, and the the silver because it's pretty, the other eyeshadows in it don't cut it. Get yourself some Fergie lipsticks instead! :)

DISCLAIMER: This post contains products that have been sent complimentary of the company/brand or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

Goodbye Google Reader (Plus Other Ways to Follow)

2013-03-21T00:26:00.001-07:00

Some of you may have already heard about this over the Blogiverse, but just in case, Google Reader is going away on July 1. I suppose it's a move that's part of Google's "spring cleaning," and another attempt to draw more attention to Google+.

As a blogger who has relied on Google Reader and values all of my readers who follow me through it, this was hugely upsetting news to me. However, the Blogiverse must go on and I suppose I'm over it now. Plus, there are tons of alternatives for you to follow ABrilliantBrunette.com. So, if you're one of the almost 5,000 people following me through Google Reader and want to know more about those alternatives, just CLICK HERE! On my Subscribe page, you'll find see all of the other methods to get updated on new posts here, as well as social media sites to follow me on...Twitter and Instagram addict here!

Oh! When you visit my Subscribe page, you'll notice that one of your options is Bloglovin'. If you're not signed up with them, I highly recommend it. Once you're signed up, you can actually import your Google Reader subscriptions to Bloglovin'. Any of your favorite blogs that use Bloglovin' will be automatically added to your feed. Pretty handy!

So, yeah...bye Google Reader! It's been fun. Hello Bloglovin' and other stuff!

What are your thoughts on Google Reader coming to an end? Is there a feed subscription site that you already moved to?

wet n wild ColorIcon Blush Swatches (All 4 Colors)

2013-03-08T20:47:00.000-08:00

wet n wild says:

Sweep on this silky-smooth blush that strikes the perfect balance between a blendable transparent sheen and a radiant pop of maximum color. A special blend of treated nylon powders provides long-lasting color. Dermatologist-tested.

$2.99 each

Where to buy:
wnwbeauty.com or these retailers

Pearlescent Pink

Heather Silk

Mellow Wine

Berry Shimmer

Left to right:
Pearlescent Pink, Heather Silk, Mellow Wine, Berry Shimmer

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

How to Use Accessories to Maximise the Style of an Outfit

2013-03-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

Women have more outfits at their disposals than they think. Their wardrobe’s basic pieces can be transformed from casual wear to office attire to formalwear with nothing more than some creative accessorizing. A little black dress or a plain white blouse can be worn strolling along country lanes or sitting front row at the theatre as long as it is paired with the right accessories. Here are some tips to help every woman make the most of her wardrobe.

The Casual Look
Just because the occasion is casual, doesn’t mean a girl shouldn’t accessorize. Whether her basic pieces include jeans and a tank top or a flirty dress, she can make them casually chic with the right accents. Flats or boots make for great casual footwear and are comfortable to walk in. Jewelry should be simple for casual setting wearing a bangle bracelet or small pendant is stylish without overwhelming an outfit. Smaller earrings, like studs, hoops or delicate drops, also suit this look. Dress down a dress by adding a bold-coloured belt or a fun hat, or belt a long shirt worn over a pair of leggings to create a fun shirt-dress. Of course, no outfit is complete without a handbag. For casual outings, a big shoulder bag or messenger-style carryall dresses down an outfit and provides much-needed space to carry belongings. In a casual setting adding too many items will simply look like you are trying too hard so give yourself three fun accessories and keep the rest more simplistic then the ones that are bold will really pop.

At the Office
Looking good at work with a limited wardrobe can be challenging. Adding accessories to old outfits makes them seem entirely new and different, and the right accessories make any outfit look great in the boardroom. A few pairs of flat or court shoes in basic colours like black, navy or nude with an elegant trouser and skirt suit is office chic. A narrow belt can add a pop of colour to a dark or solid shirt or dress, and a scarf fastened with a pretty clip or brooch can also look both stylish and professional. Layered bangles or chain-link bracelets feminize a business suit or blazer, as does a pretty necklace or a large pair of earrings. Brooches or brightly coloured pocket squares are other ways to brighten a jacket. Bags should be businesslike as well: briefcases or large leather totes neatly hold work essentials and give off an executive vibe. Here you must keep it quite muted with maybe one bold accessory because you want to make the right statement and being professional first and stylish second is important.

Formal Occasions
Wardrobe basics become evening-appropriate when paired with elegant accessories. High heels or strappy leather sandals that show off a brightly coloured pedicure add glamour to any outfit. Jewelry goes from dainty to dazzling for evening adding a statement necklace or cocktail ring lends just the right touch of glitz. Hair jewelry is also appropriate for eveningwear; women should experiment with incorporating sparkly combs or headbands into their up-dos. When it comes to bags, they tend to get smaller as day turns to night. A tiny clutch just large enough to conceal a lipstick dresses up any outfit. Here you can add a little sparkle to everything and enjoy feeling really glitzy and glam so there are really rules and no going over the top but as a tip always take the last thing you add off again just to see if it really works.

With careful accessorising, most wardrobe staples can be worn to casual get-togethers, business meetings and evening events. Many outfits can be revamped to fit any occasion just by updating their accessories.

Author bio:
Rebecca is a fashion student who has aspirations to design her own wedding gown collection and run her own specialist wedding boutique. To look perfect on Valentine’s Day, consider hiring a fashion stylist or to help you create the perfect proposal consider one of these exquisite diamond rings from Samara James Jewellers to pop the question with.

This is a sponsored post.

wet n wild To Reflect Shimmer Palettes | Swatches and Review

2013-03-05T21:35:00.000-08:00

Another awesome part of the wet n wild Fergie Centerstage Collection are the To Reflect Shimmer Palettes. Three gorgeous highlighters priced ridiculously low at about $5.99...these are a total hit.

Where to buy: CLICK HERE and HERE.

Swatches! Um hello...how gorgeous are these?!
Carnival In Rio, Rose Golden Goddess, Rose Champagne Glow

The Good:
Everything.
No really.
I love these.
Awesome pigmentation.
Awesome price.
Just the right amount of shimmer.
Not glittery.
Leaves a gorgeous glowing sheen.

The Bad:
Nothing!

My Favorite:
All three. Seriously.

Beauty Tip:
Buff these shimmering highlighters onto the cheeks with a duo fiber brush or the SOHO Beauty Highlighter Brush (see my review here) for a flawless, glowing look.

Have you tried these Shimmer Palettes? What are your thoughts?

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

Eucerin "Love Your Skin" Giveaway

2013-02-28T15:05:00.000-08:00

Maintaining a healthy daily routine is crucial for your skin’s overall well-being. Here are some tips to keep your skin luminous and lovely:

- Hit the gym! Exercising can help you de-stress. The increased blood flow from physical activity also helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells.

- Moisturize! In cold winter months, remember to use rich creams and lip balm to give your skin additional moisture and to soothe cracked skin.

- Catch up on some Zzzz’s! When you sleep, you allow your skin cells a chance to regenerate. Experts recommend 6-8 hours each night.

- Cut down on the sugar! No one's telling you to abandon chocolate altogether, but processed sugar can contribute to the breakdown of collagen, making your skin dull and less taut.

- Exfoliate! Exfoliating a couple times each week helps to remove dead skin cells and expose fresh new cells.

- Get enough Vitamin C! Vitamin C is known to help prevent cell damage, keeping your skin less prone to wrinkles. So make sure to stock up on C-rich foods, like guava, kiwi and tomatoes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

wet n wild Desert Festival Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches and Review

2013-02-19T13:30:00.001-08:00

Recently released as part of wet n wild's Fergie Centerstage Collection are the Photo Op Eyeshadow Palettes. Four palettes, each containing five eyeshadows that according to wet n wild are "dynamic, perfectly color-coordinated shades with high pigment and pearl for ultra-impact color. Shades can be used together or individually to create an endless variety of looks."

Swatches over wet n wild eyeshadow primer
Last swatch on the right is the middle eyeshadow

The good:
Nice pigmentation.
Beautiful colors.
Layer nicely.
A lovely color combo.
Oh and AWESOME price at about $4.99 per palette.

The bad:
While nice, the pigmentation isn't amazing like the ColorIcon eyeshadow palettes.
Takes some effort to blend.
The shadows are a bit hard, not soft and easy to work with.

Overall:
I love this color combination, but I don't love that the eyeshadows themselves aren't quite as fabulous as the wet n wild ColorIcon palettes (I'm crazy for ColorIcon stuff!). At $4.99 each, I say these are worth picking up, because I mean...$4.99! So, nice, but not a must-have.

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

wet n wild Fergie Photo Op Eyeshadow Palettes | A Preview

2013-02-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

Everything from wet n wild's new Fergie Centerstage line is absolutely lovely and these 4 Photo Op eyeshadow palettes are no exception. This is just a quick preview of posts to come. In the coming week or so I'll have an individual swatch and review post for each.

Price: about $4.99 depending on the store and sales

CLICK HERE for where to buy these palettes!

The packaging

Desert Festival

Dutchess Lounge

Metropolitan Lights

Maldives Sky

Have you tried any of these palettes yet? Let me know in the comments below!

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

wet n wild Coverall Creme Foundation Demo and Review

2013-02-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

wet n wild says:

Glides on weightlessly for sheer-to-medium coverage that’s never heavy, chalky, or dull. Evens out flaws with a silky, semi-matte finish that let’s your skin’s natural luminescence shine through. Contains SPF 15 for the ultimate in anti-aging treatment.

Price: $4.00 - $5.00 (depending on where you buy it)

CLICK HERE for where to buy.

Left to right:
815 Fair, 816 Fair/Light, 817 Light, 818 Light/Medium, 819 Medium, 820 Medium/Tan, 858 Tan

Blurry picture yes, but you can see what this foundation claims. So, how do these claims measure up to my experience?

All day wear - Literally all day? No. Of course not. But for a work day or school day, for me, this is pretty accurate. You can see in the photos below that I can go HOURS without touching up and with my oily T-zone, this is practically a miracle.

Medium-to-full coverage - Funny...on the wet n wild website (quoted in the beginning of my post), it says that this foundation is sheer-to-medium coverage, yet the package says medium-to-full. So...yeah. I have no idea what that's about. For me though, this foundation seems to be sheer-to-medium/full. It's not quite full, but it's more full than medium. Plus it's buildable and layers beautifully.

Lightweight, satin/matte finish - True, and true. Even after layering this foundation to build up coverage, it remained lightweight. The finish is divine.

VisiBright complex reduces the appearance of wrinkles and rejuvenates skin - This is a tough one. I've been using this foundation for almost 2 weeks now but that's not nearly enough time to notice a difference in my skin. I'll come back to this one later.

Demo time! For reference, I'm using Light/Medium.

This is me without makeup. My skin is clear and smooth. I have freckles, obviously, but they're not a concern for me. I do prefer a fuller coverage foundation but it's just because I like how it looks. My concern is my pores. I have them on my cheeks and nose. While they're small, with the wrong foundation they appear larger and deeper. They're why I like the full coverage, matte look. Lesser coverage and thin foundations make my pores look HUGE, as do luminescent foundations.

I used this brush (which I LOVE) to buff the foundation over my entire face. After one layer, you can see that it already covers pretty well. You can also see that my pores aren't anymore noticeable than they were before.

I applied another layer of foundation on my cheeks, nose, and under my eyes. This foundation layers beautifully. It blends well, doesn't cake up, and still feels light on the skin. For more coverage I could have done another layer, but since I also use a powder foundation (MAC Studio Fix Powder) I ended the layering there and moved on with the rest of my steps.

I applied my undereye concealer (Loreal Bare Natural Concealer in Light), and my powder (MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5). I also applied a matte bronzer/countour on my cheeks, Berry Shimmer blush by wet n wild (GORGEOUS), my trusty Benefit Bad Gal Waterproof Mascara, and my current favorite lipstick, MAC Rebel. Here you can see how smooth, covered, and matte my face looks. This miracle isn't only because of the COVERALL Creme, but moreso due to the combination of product I used and the technique used to apply them. But since the COVERALL CREME is the first layer closest to the skin, the real test is how this foundation wears. If it looks good at first, and wears terribly, it's just not going to work for me.

Let me start by saying that I don't wear face primer. After nearly 8 hours of not touching up my oily T-zone AT ALL you can see that there's some shine on my nose. You can't see it in the picture but my forehead is shiny as well. However, it's not bad. This much shine after 8 hours is nothing, especially for me. To me, this is normal wear for my skin type.

Notice the eyeglass marks on my nose in the picture above? To get rid of them, I simply rubbed over the area with my finger to blend the mark away. It blended perfectly without removing more makeup. It actually refreshed the area a bit and since that worked, I rubbed over my shiny nose too which made the shine dissipate a bit. So, I basically touched up without touching up. This aspect of the product was huge for me.

The one general downfall...the shade range! You can tell from the swatches that I posted that these foundations don't go dark at all. wet n wild needs to these for dark-skinned lovelies ASAP.

Overall, this foundation is awesomeness. I've been using MAC Studio Fix Fluid for years and I'm seriously and officially a wet n wild COVERALL Creme girl now. It performs amazingly for me and at such a low price, how could I not switch over to it?

If you're thinking about trying it, I say do it! For the price, it's definitely worth a try. If you do try it, or have tried, it, I'd love to know what your thoughts are. Let me know in the comments!

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to ABrilliantBrunette.com for consideration. All opinions are honest and that of the editor.

Bold Blue and Orange Eyes

2013-02-03T21:59:00.002-08:00

I love this color combo, butI don't think I've ever shared it with you before. I've worn it...but never took photos. Blue and orange, on a color wheel, are contracting colors. Put together, they create a striking look that's gorgeous for brown eyes. Of course any eye color can wear it, but brown eyes...*swoon*.

For step-by-step instructions on how to achieve this look, and a full list of the products I used, just keep reading!

GET THE LOOK
1. Apply a primer and base to your eye area.
2. To the lid, apply a shimmery deep blue.
3. At the edge of the blue, blend a matte orange eyeshadow. Continue blending the orange onto your optical bone.
4. Highlight your browbone with a matte cream colored eyeshadow.
5. Blend a reddish brown into your crease where the blue and orange meet.
6. To the outer V of your eye, apply a dark brown.
7. Using the same blue, go along your bottom lashline, extending the line outward and upward to create a wing.
8. Apply a shimmery cream colored eyeshadow to your inner corner.
9. Softly line your upper lashline with a black eyeshadow.
10. Apply mascara and lashes, and you're done!

PRODUCTS
BROWS
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Billion Dollar Brows Brow Powder in Taupe
MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NW25
Milani Brow Pen in Taupe
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base and along bottom waterline)
MAC eyeshadows in Deep Truth (blue), Rule (orange in crease/optical bone), Brownscript (reddish brown in crease), Brun (dark brown in outer V), and Dazzlelight (shimmery cream on inner corners)
Sugarpill eyeshadow in Bulletproof (black for soft liner on upper lashline)
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (brow and inner corner highlight)
Benefit Bad Gal Lash Waterproof Mascara in Black
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE
MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NW25
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Light (under eye concealer/brightener)
Tarte Park Avenue Princess Bronzer (bronzer/contour)
MAC Mineralized Skinfinish in Redhead

LIPS
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Shy Girl
clear gloss

A Brilliant Brunette

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wet n wild Maldives Sky Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches, Review, and Photos

April's #brilliantbeautychallenge on Instagram!

Tell Me Tuesday: The Fuss About The FTC

the Balm Nude 'tude Palette Swatches, Review, and Photos

wet n wild Dutchess Lounge Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches and Review

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How to Use Accessories to Maximise the Style of an Outfit

wet n wild To Reflect Shimmer Palettes | Swatches and Review

Eucerin "Love Your Skin" Giveaway

wet n wild Desert Festival Photo Op Eyeshadow Palette Swatches and Review

wet n wild Fergie Photo Op Eyeshadow Palettes | A Preview

wet n wild Coverall Creme Foundation Demo and Review

Bold Blue and Orange Eyes

CLOSED Worldwide Group Giveaway -- WIN a $100 Sephora GiftCard