A Brilliant Brunette

Ponytails, Blowouts and Braids | Fashion Week Explored (Guest Post)

2012-02-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

London and New York Fashion Weeks brought with them a bevy of clothes and looks. With makeup and hair playing a major role in the shows, I thought it was about time to go through the hairdos that will be grabbing your attention in the coming year.

There were several trends that caught our attention, with ponytails and waves pulling out in front. Donna Karen showed us just how a wrap can turn hair into art work, with stylish clothes and even more sophisticated hair. And it isn’t difficult to create the perfect ponytail. Just pull back your hair and accessorize. Even some of the more complicated ponytails, like those seen at Herve Leger, are easy to recreate. Chanel also bejeweled their hairdos with pearls, and brought the wet look to the up-do. Ralph Lauren premiered the middle parting ponytail, which screamed both luxury and sophistication.

The Kate Middleton look dominated many shows with wavy hair making a comeback in spring/summer 2012. This look, so easy to recreate with just a hairdryer, is a great way to wear your hair in the summer, especially when accessorized with a floral dress. With DKNY, Anna Sui, D&G, Issa, Versace and Chloe all letting their hair down on the catwalk this season, there is no reason for you not to follow suit.

Braids and twists won over in the up-do ranks. Armani, Moschino and Valentino all manipulated the models’ hair into braids, plaits and twists to create stunning looks. This summer with so many wearable looks you can knock yourself out and try all of the many hair styles from the fashion weeks. This summer wearable hair is going to make the headlines.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. For more information please visit the following pages:
Disclosure
Advertise on A Brilliant Brunette

Image Credit

Wearable Purple Eyes feat. Sugarpill Cosmetics

2012-02-26T21:54:00.002-07:00

As much as I love bright eyeshadow and bold looks, I've definitely been gravitating more towards wearable color lately...for a while now actually. I get that bright pop but by adding neutral colors, everything is toned down. It's a look that's still fun, but not too over the top for my current taste.

This look brings in a little of Sugarpill's Paperdoll Loose Eyeshadow, a lovely blue toned violet purple. To me, it's what MAC Parfait Amour should be like...but way way better. I'm absolutely loving this color!

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Senna Cosmetics Brow Shaper Duo in Brunette (powder side only)
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)
Sugarpill Loose Eyeshadow in Paperdoll
MAC eyeshadows in Wedge (optical bone and bottom lashline), and Graphology (outer V)
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone and inner corner highlight)
MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack (winged liner)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very 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)
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Dark (contour/bronzer)
MAC Mineralize Blush in Dainty (blush/highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Creme In Your Coffee and Creme Cup

Best of Senna Cosmetics

2012-02-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Senna Cosmetics, created by Emmy-nominated makeup artist, Eugenia Weston, is known for its luxurious products from perfecting foundations, to rich eyeshadows, lavish lipcolors and some of the best brow products around. One of my favorite brands to date, I'm sharing my tried-and-true picks for the Best Of Senna Cosmetics.

Lip Sync - $24.00

As a lover or Senna's lipsticks and lipglosses, the Lip Syncs are the best of both worlds. These lip duos are long-lasting, moisturizing, and deliciously flavored with a hint of almond biscotti.

Eye Color Palette - $35.00

With their 4 different eyeshadow finishes it's difficult to choose which is my favorite, so I had no choice but to choose their 5-color palette. Senna has some of the best, most luxuriously pigmented eyeshadows I've ever had the pleasure of trying. Plus, the price of the palette is superb; $35 for 5 colors...$7 per eyeshadow? Amazing.

Brow Shaper Duo - $20.00

Pomade paired with the most perfectly colored brow powder ever; this product is amazing. While I use Brunette, the other shades are sure to be just as fabulous delivering the same natural long-lasting brow filler.

Sketch-A-Brow Pencil - $18.00

If you happen to be more of a brow pencil kinda person, Sketch-A-Brow is another one of Senna's remarkable brow products. The fine tip allows for precision while the tiny comb blends and creates a more natural appearance. This pencil is smudgeproof and super long-lasting. SUPER. If you have an oily T-zone, I highly recommend this pencil. For reference, I use Dark Taupe.

Brow Fix X - $18.00

This tinted brow gel delivers a bit of color, conditioner, and control to brows. However, this isn't your average brow setting gel; Brow Fix X also contains texturizing fibers, much like a like a lengthening mascara, to add fullness to the brows. An absolute must for anyone with sparse brows like myself. I've been using this in Taupe for years and totally love it.

The Envelope - $50.00

16 eyeshadows, 6 blushes, and 2 full-size face colors...LOVE. Though I don't own this, nor have I ever tried it, I can pretty much guarantee that it would be amazing. The $50 pricetag, reduced from $100, is irresistible. I need/want it! Available in 4 palette choices.

Have you tried Senna Cosmetics? What products do you like?

Shabby Apple Giveaway and Discount!

2012-02-19T17:12:00.001-07:00

DISCOUNT
10% off with code
brilliantbrunette10off

Shabby Apple, an online boutique selling women's dresses, apparel, and accessories, is being gracious enough to offer a beautiful bracelet for A Brilliant Brunette's readers.

The Dark Secrets of Wonderland Bracelet, a gunmetal multi-chain bracelet with a lobster clasp closure, features some beautiful charms: a clock, scissors, hour glass, cross, and various sized gun metal heart lockets. It measures 8-inches at its longest link allowing some room for different wrist sizes. Being a huge lover of charm bracelets, I'm incredibly excited to be able to give one to one of my readers.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Entrants must "LIKE" Shabby Apple on Facebook. Plus it's an awesome way to get inside info on sales and special promotions!
CLICK HERE to "LIKE" Shabby Apple!

HOW TO ENTER
CLICK HERE and fill out the entry form!
All the questions are mandatory.

RULES
- Giveaway will close on Friday 2/24 at 10:59pm PST.
- Winner will be chosen at random via Random.org and contacted via e-mail
- US ONLY

MAC Rainbow Eyes

2012-02-18T21:44:00.002-07:00

It was 4 years ago when I first had my makeup done at a MAC counter back home in the San Fransisco Bay Area. It was actually a makeup lesson; a $50 giftcard held my appointment and I was able to use that money towards product after my lesson. The manager did an awesome job showing me how to do a rainbow eye (featured here) with precise placement and flawless blending. She also showed me how to apply false lashes which, until that day, I couldn't apply for the life of me. She also turned me on to Studio Fix Fluid foundation and powder, both of which I still use to this day...my favorite foundation EVER.

I never recreated the look after all this time, until now. Enjoy :)

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Benefit Brow Zing in Light (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base)
MAC eyeshadows in Goldmine (lid), Rule (crease/optical bone), Hepcat (outer V), Blue Storm (bottom lashline), Swimming (bottom lashine), and Naked Lunch (brow highlight)
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight)
MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack (winged liner)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very 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)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
Lorac Luminizer (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Blankety and Creme Cup

Purple Eyes with Blue Liner feat. wet n wild

2012-02-17T00:08:00.001-07:00

My first look using Glamrock and Sellout, the beautiful new purple and pink Color Icon eyeshadow singles from wet n wild, as well as another new product of theirs -- the Indigo Blue MegaLast liquid eyeliner. I also used the Petal Pusher 8 palette to keep with the purple theme.

It was a while ago when I did a similar look using MAC...goes to show that you can easily create duplicate looks using drugstore products!

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Senna Cosmetics Brow Shaper Duo in Brunette (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base)
wet n wild 8 palette in Petal Pusher
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight) and Glamrock (bottom lashline and crease), and Sellout (browbone transition)
wet n wild MegaLast liquid liner in Indigo Blue
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very 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)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Perfect Topping (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Creme Cup

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

NEW wet n wild Mega Shield Lip Colors w/ SPF 15 | Swatches and Thoughts

2012-02-09T09:31:00.000-07:00

wet n wild says:

Color, comfort, and care! Luxurious color delivers hours of sheer-to-moderate coverage that glides on buttery-soft for a smooth, moist-looking pout. Lips are pampered with Vitamin E, Amino Acids, Avocado Oil, and Rice Bran Oil that moisturize and condition for silky, soft comfort. And with SPF 15, lips are cared for and protected from harmful UVB rays.

Left to right:
Birthday Suit, Peachy Keen, Make Me Blush, Arrest Me Copper!, Bare-ly Legal, Ring Around the Rosy, Pink Slip

Left to right:
A Currant Affair, That's Berry Beautiful, Salsa Lessons, Lolly Popstar, It's a Girl, Within These Adobe Walls, Pink Cham-pagne

My thoughts:
I love these. Seriously. They're moisturizing, gorgeous, and give the lips just the right amount of color. If you'd like a fuller coverage, you can always wear a lipliner underneath, lining and filling your lips; it'll also help with longevity. I have no complaints about these lip colors are all. There's not a color in the collection that I won't wear. They're my new favorite!

One little thing that I didn't like...the wrapping was incredibly difficult to remove and left this super sticky mess on the container. SUPER sticky...definitely needs to be cleaned but I wish they were wrapped in the cellophane that wet n wild usually uses.

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Senna Cosmetics on Hautelook!

2012-02-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

View the sale and shop HERE!

Hautelook says:

Starts Thursday 2/9 at 7AM Pacific

One of the first ‘makeup artist’ lines ever launched, Senna Cosmetics has a 34 year strong cult following of ‘Senna’ girls, celebrities, and film and television industry artists who simply adore the quality and performance of each problem solving and glam-producing product.

Designed by Emmy-nominated celebrity makeup artist and teacher to the pros, Eugenia Weston, Senna Cosmetics makes skin look absolutely flawless, youthful, and natural with breakthrough, budge-proof, cake-proof, correcting concealers, primers, and foundations. Pampering, richly colored eye shadows, blushes and lipsticks have the texture of fine silk in colors that bring out the beauty in any skin tone.

The Senna Form-A-Brow® Kit changed the beauty industry forever as the first brow kit with shaping stencils designed from Ms. Weston’s 30 plus years of brow shaping expertise in her Beverly Hills Studio.

Senna Cosmetics makes looking beautiful easy and fun with its exceptional, professional studio quality makeup.

No Animal Testing.

Products on Hautelook:
- The beautiful 7 piece Brush Clutch for just $45.00!

- Cream Lipsticks are $6.00

- Lipgloss sets from $15.00 to $24.00

- Mineral Mix Blush or Bronzer with Brush for $20.00

- 3 piece Glamour Kits for $34.00

- Pencil trios for $14.00

I highly recommend Senna Cosmetics and I'll definitely be hitting the sale myself! Let me know if you pick anything up!

Eucerin and A Brilliant Brunette | Skin First Digital Network and a Giveaway!

2012-02-07T23:22:00.000-07:00

Announcing a new partnership between Eucerin and A Brilliant Brunette...the Skin First Digital Network! I'm super excited for this opportunity; it's going to bring a ton of perks and info to all of my amazing readers.

For the month of February, not only will there be a giveaway (info below), but you can also visit Eucerin's Facebook page to take the Skin First Pledge and get a free sample of the Eucerin Skin Calming Crème to help keep your skin moisturized and looking healthy this winter, and all throughout the year.

February's Giveaway: Love Your Skin
One lucky winner (US ONLY) will win a Love Your Skin Prize Pack:

- Eucerin Skin Calming Daily Moisturizing Crème (8 oz.), a gentle, non-greasy formula that combines calming oatmeal and rich emollients to help relieve dry, itchy skin for softer, healthier-looking and more comfortable skin.

- Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash (8.4 oz.), a unique body wash formulation that combines soap-free cleansing with omega oils and other natural lipids to nourish and soothe.

- Eucerin Skin Calming Itch-Relief (6.8 fl. oz.), an external analgesic lotion for itchy skin flare-ups with cooling menthol and natural oatmeal for effective relief that lasts up to 8 hours.

HOW TO ENTER
CLICK HERE and fill out the entry form! Super easy! :)

RULES
- Giveaway will close at 11:59PST on Sunday, February 19, 2012
- Winner will be chosen at random via Random.org
- US ONLY

Get to entering and good luck!
xoxo
Jacqueline~

Smokey MAC Hepcat Eyes

2012-02-06T23:25:00.000-07:00

Why MAC? Why...why did you discontinue Hepcat? How could you? O_O

Hepcat is...was...one of my favorite colors from MAC; A bright wine that's completely versatile. It can be used in bright looks, wearable, smokey, anything. But...discontinued. You may still be able to find it at your local MAC counter or store.

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Benefit Brow Zing in Light (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base)
MAC eyeshadows in Hepcat, Carbon, Seedly Pearl, and Soft Brown
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very 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)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
Lorac Luminizer (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Angel

NEW wet n wild Mega Last Lip Color Swatches and Thoughts

2012-02-06T08:41:00.001-07:00

wet n wild says:

Glides on easily with rich, velvety color that doesn't cake, feather, or bleed. Made with hydrating skin-care ingredients: Hyaluronic Microspheres provide extraordinary adhesion to lips an exclusive polymer complex offers cushion-like feel and texture, and natural marine plant extracts Coenzyme Q10 and Vitamins A and E help smooth lips.

Sorry about the flash!...

Swatches left to right:
Cherry Picking, Don't Bleed Pink, Dollhouse Pink, Pinkerbell, 24 Carrot Gold, Purty Persimmon

Lip swatch of Cherry Picking, over Ulta lipliner in Flesh, blotted. Totally love this color!

Thoughts:
It was a while ago when I did my original swatch post on the Mega Last lip colors. Now wet n wild has come out with six new colors for their 2012 line. These new colors are bold, gorgeous, and definitely eye-catching! So far I've only worn Cherry Picking, which I am totally in love with. Next I'm thinking of trying Purty Persimmon. Such a cute name and it describes the color perfectly. Non-drying, long-lasting lip color at the crazy cheap prices that wet n wild is known for...what more could you ask for?

Have you tried the Mega Last Lip Colors? What are your thoughts on them? What about the new colors...any that catch your eye?

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

NEW wet n wild Mega Liner Liquid Eyeliner Swatches and Review

2012-02-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

wet n wild says:
Easy-to-control liquid liner has a fine, flexible brush for precise application. Rich fluid, formula dries fast ad stars put to subtly enhance or dramatically define.

Review:
Black Sparkle and Indigo Blue are the newest Mega Liner colors and also part of wet n wild's 2012 Collection. I've always loved wet n wild's liquid liners. They're just beautiful, especially for the price. Being a fan of liquid liners with brush applicators, I'm thrilled that these ones have brushes rather than those pointy sponges. They're incredibly long-lasting but not entirely waterproof, so they won't withstand a bout of watery eyes from allergies. Online Canadian pharmacies can provide you with discounted allergy fixes.

My only issue with these liners is that they take 2 layers to show up true to color. You'll see below in the swatches that one layer results in a sheer coverage; two is most definitely better. I recently wore Indigo Blue on my eyes and the same thing happened...needed 2 layers. It's not a big deal to me but I'd prefer that they worked in one layer instead.

Other than that, these 2 colors are great! The other Mega Liner colors are worth checking out too!

The brush

Black Sparkle and Indigo Blue
One layer

Two layers

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

NEW Jordana Glitter Specialty Nail Polish Swatches

2012-02-02T23:12:00.000-07:00

When I opened this package from Jordana, I'm pretty sure I did some sort of girly, excited "eeking" or something. I mean, how could I not? These nail polishes are ah-mazing! So sparkly...so soooo sparkly. Then, when I finally got around to doing the swatches it was like the best thing ever. So, just continue to the swatches. You'll see what I mean.

For more into on these polishes, Jordana's new Glitter Specialty Nail Polish Collection, click that link over <--- there to be taken to my other blog post!

Left to right: Red Flash, Bronze Fest, Copper Blaze, Funky Gold Town, Gold Glam

One Coat

Two Coats

Left to right: Green Glitz, Celestial, Cosmic, Blue Bash, LA City Nights

One Coat

Two Coats

Left to right: Celebration, Fairy Dust, Pixie Pink, Confetti

One Coat

Two Coats

Left to right: Gemstones, My Superstar, Rhinestones, Lunar Lights

One Coat

Two Coats

So, after seeing swatches, what are your thoughts? I think they're fabulous!

NEW wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Singles Swatches and Reviews

2012-01-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

My love and adoration for wet n wild eyeshadows should be fairly apparent by now. I love them...that's it. But, as with all brands, eyeshadows vary so instead of a general review, I'll be sharing my thoughts on each particular color.

**Part of wet n wild's 2012 Cosmetic Collection, these beautiful new eyeshadow singles will be available in February.

$1.99 each

Left to right:
Unplugged, Platinum, Trashed, Panther, Sellout, Glamrock, Stagedive, Golddigger

Color Details and Thoughts:
Unplugged: a metallic bright white with a touch of sparkle. It's a lot like MAC Crystal Avalanche. I'm not a white eyeshadow kinda girl but if you are, this is an awesome, pigmented, AND affordable option.

Platinum: a metallic silver with a touch of sparkle. I want to say it's similar to MAC Silver Ring eyeshadow but I don't have that one to do a swatch comparison.This would be gorgeous for a smokey eye!

Trashed: a satin finish black with a slight sheen and silver sparkle that actually sticks during application and blending. O...M...G...okay I know it's just a sparkly black but it's a total must-have. Super dark, sparkly....I love this one.

Panther: an incredibly deep true matte black. Again...a must-have. I'll do some swatch comparisons but this is THE darkest black eyeshadow that I own. Absolutely amazing.

Sellout: a slightly shimmery bright, but wearable, pink with a touch of sparkle. Being a lover of pink eyeshadow, I'm thrilled with this color. Bright but not overdone. Sparkly but not glittery. It's perfection in my eyes.

Glamrock: a shimmery blue-tones purple. While it's beautiful, this one honestly isn't my favorite of the bunch. It's not as pigmented as I'd like it to be. It's a bit on the sheer side which you may be able to tell from the swatch picture. However sheerness and softer eye looks are your thing, you'll love this. For me though, I'll likely be using this over a purple base to bring out the color a bit more.

Stagedive: a slightly metallic bright blue with traces of sparkle. *ahem* This is my favorite eyeshadow of the bunch and of the moment. MAC addicts or those of us who are reformed may remember an eyeshadow called Blue Storm from some collection a while back. Which collection? I have no clue...but it was my first MAC eyeshadow and to this day it's still my favorite. I barely use it in fear of running out. Stagedive is so similar to Blue Storm...I'm totally thrilled. If you're not familiar with Blue Storm, just know that this eyeshadow is a must-have for blue eyeshadow lovers.

Golddigger: a shimmery yellow gold with gold sparkle. This eyeshadow is stunning. I believe it's similar to MAC Goldmine but a bit brighter. It would be gorgeous for a smokey eye and can easily go bright as well. Though I love Stagedive, I'll likely wear this one the most often.

Now tell me...which will you be trying? Or have you already? What are your thoughts?

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

NuMe Silhouette Flat Iron Review

2012-01-30T21:48:00.000-07:00

NuMe says:

NuMe's best selling Silhouette styler combines our original 100% solid ceramic plates with a soft touch finish. Its sleek design and non-slip finish brings a luxurious feel to your styling tool, while you effortlessly transform your hair to any gorgeous look – seductively straight, voluptuous waves or perfect curls. Great for all hair types.

The NuMe Silhouette Professional Styling Iron has a unique alignment system that ensures ideal contact between your hair and our 100% ceramic plates infused with tourmaline. Using pure ceramic plates ensures even heat distribution, eliminating the hot spots and chipping associated with conventional irons. Our tourmaline ceramic plates emit negative ions which seals moisture in the hair cuticle keeping your hair shiny, healthy and silky smooth.

***The Silhouette comes with a 3 year warranty.

Review:
I'm a daily flat-ironing kinda girl. I love the smooth, sleek look that only a flat iron can give. I also prefer a style that lasts all day, doesn't frizz, and is simple and quick to achieve. The NuMe Silhouette Flat Iron does all that. It heats up in less that a minute (the red light turns green when it's done heating), has a temperature control and an on/off switch. What I love about this iron is that it does more than just create sleek, smooth hair; it can also volumize, curl, and flip the hair in and out (instructions on how to achieve these different looks is on the inside of the box). The other thing I love about it...the color! A glowing hot pink flat iron...love!

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Blue and Purple wet n wild Eyes

2012-01-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

The Blue Had Me At Hello and Petal Pusher 8-pan palettes from wet n wild are just love. LOVE.
Affordable, pigmented palettes? How can someone not love them? You all might already know that blues and purples are among my top favorite eyeshadow colors and together they're even moreso. The deep blue combined with the glowing lighter purple make for a colorful smokey eye type look.

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Senna Brow Shaper duo on Brunette (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk (base on lid)
Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner in Deviant (bottom lashline)
wet n wild Blue Had Me At Hello palette (Crease-right side: lid and bottom lashline)
wet n wild Petal Pusher palette (both eyelid colors and left crease color...dabbed brush in each color: crease and above
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very 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)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Lightscapade (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Viva Glam Gaga 2 and Creme Cup

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush | Orchid Hush Swatch and Review

2012-01-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Maybelline says:

Product Details
Why You'll Love It

Freshest flush ever:
• Revolutionary gel formula provides a new bouncy texture.
• Lightweight like a powder, yet melts seamlessly into skin like a cream
• Natural sheer wash of color that is buildable for greater color intensity
• Dermatologist tested, Allergy tested
• Non comedogenic
For Best Results

With your fingertips, blend a small amount of blush onto the apples of your cheeks, applying from your cheekbones to your temples. To build color intensity, apply more blush.

Swatch:

Swatch blended out

Thoughts:
A bouncy blush....I was curious about this one. I was wondering what exactly made it bouncy. The second that I laid hands on it it was pretty obvious. Maybelline's new Bouncy Blush is literally bouncy to the touch....quite surprising.

Upon swatching this particular color (Orchid Hush) I was a pretty disappointed. Blended on my hand it appeared to be nearly invisible (see above). However, on my cheeks (applied with a small duo fiber brush), over foundation, it ended up giving me a light pink glow; still sheer, but better than I expected it to be. However I'm not crazy about the lasting power. It's not often that I have a blush fade on me, but this one did. Perhaps it'd be better if I set it with a powder but it's not worth the effort in my opinion.

Would I purchase it again, or in a different color? Likely not. It's a lovely product, but because of the lasting power (or lack of) it just isn't for me.

What are your thoughts on this blush? Have you tried any of the other colors?
If you have a blog post about these blushes, feel free to share your links below!

e.l.f. Rocker Quad Tutorial

2012-01-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

For more info on the e.l.f. Rocker Quad, please check my Featured Product post! You'll find swatches, a short review, more pictures of this look, as well as a complete list of products used!

Start with a primed eye. I used MAC Painterly Paintpot as well as a touch of Too Faced Shadow Insurance Glitter Glue on my lid. A sticky base like Glitter Glue will help the shadows adhere and appear more pigmented than they typically would.

Next, apply the champagne shadow to the inner lid.

To the outer lid, apply a purple base, then pack the purple shadow over the top. The purple base is NEEDED to get this level of pigmentation from this particular purple shadow. Blend the purple shadow inward toward the champagne.

To the outer V, apply a sparkling black, blending it with the purple. This will result in a smokey look.

Highlight your browbone with a matte cream eyeshadow. I'm using wet n wild's Brulee.

Along the bottom lashline apply a purple base, as well as a white one on the inner corner. The white is especially necessary with the sheerness of the e.l.f. white. However, the bases in general will aid in pigmentation and lasting power.

Apply the white shadow to the inner corner. Follow up with the purple shadow on the remainder of your lashline.

Next, add a touch of the sparkling black to the very outer portion of your bottom lashline, as well as along your lop lashline.

Finish off the look with foundation, mascara, and lashes if you'd like, and you're done!

e.l.f. Rocker Quad | Featured Product (Swatches, Review, Look/FOTD)

2012-01-23T23:13:00.001-07:00

Featured Products...A little something new I wanted to do here; an all-in-one post featuring one product where I share swatches, a short review, and a look/FOTD. I'll also be posting a tutorial to coincide with my Featured Product posts. It'll give my lovely readers an idea of how the product works as a whole.

For my debut post, I present the e.l.f. Brightening Eyeshadow Quad in Rocker.

e.l.f says:

Luxuriously smooth, pigmented formula provides your eyes with a bright and beautiful sweep of rich color. The formula blends into skin for a long lasting, beautiful effect. Each quad is comprised of 4 coordinating shades that allow for both natural and dramatic looks. Built-in mirror and applicator included.

Um...I totally don't know where the sponge tip applicator went O_O

Swatches on bare skin (over lotion)

My thoughts:
I'm always pleasantly surprised with the e.l.f. quads. For $1, I'd say that that they're pretty nice. They obviously don't compare to high-end brands, nor are they the best among drugstore products, but come on, they're $1 and workable. As for lasting power throughout the day, I never have an issue but then again I ALWAYS use a primer to aid in longevity AND a base to bring out the color...something I always always suggest.

The Rocker quad in particular has 3 beautifully smooth, pigmented colors. The 1 color that I have an issue with is the white. It applies super grainy and sheer; nothing a good adhesive base won't help though. I suggest a cream like NYX Jumbo Pencils, and Too Faced Glitter Glue Shadow Insurance is awesome as well.

Look/FOTD...tutorial coming soon! (I used Too Faced Glitter Glue as a base for this look)

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Senna Cosmetics Brow Shaper Duo in Brunette (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
MAC Painterly Paintpot (base)
Too Faced Glitter Glue (lid)
e.l.f. Brightening Eyeshadow Quad in Rocker
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very Black
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE:
MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NW25
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
Loreal Bare Natural concealer in Light (under eye concealer/brightener)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
Lorac Luminizer (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Plumful and Hue

Introducing Julep Maven

2012-01-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard of them already, but Julep is an amazing new company that specializes in monthly nail polish boxes tailored to your likes. The Julep Maven boxes give you $40 worth of products for only $19.99! Each gorgeous polish is free of DBP, toluene, formaldehyde and formaldehyde resin, costing $14 each...proof of the awesome deal you get with the Maven Box.

What is a Julep Maven?

Now they can - and so can you. We launched our new Julep Maven program to give all of our girlfriends access to the beauty editor Sneak Peek Box we create every month. As a Julep Maven, you will have access to the hottest trends in nail color and the latest Mani Care and Pedi Care products - delivered right to your doorstep, just like the beauty editors do. And you'll have access to these trends and products before anyone else.

We know that tailoring and customizing each editor delivery is critical to gaining her attention and enthusiasm, so every Sneak Peek Box we send you will be tailored to your needs and preferences. Just take our fun and easy Julep Maven Style Quiz to help us understand your style profile.

Then each month, we'll send you an email to let you know what we've curated for you in your customized beauty editor Sneak Peek Box. If you don't like what you see, you can try a new style.

Or choose to send your Sneak Peek Box to a girlfriend as a gift - every month's set comes beautifully packaged and ready to gift.

Other info:
- There is no long term commitment with the Maven Box. Mavens can cancel at any time.

- Mavens are able to view EVERY purchase before payment is received/processing. This includes the intro box that they receive, as well as monthly boxes. If a Maven doesn't like their monthly selection, they are able to either "Choose a Different Style," or even "Skip the Month."

- We are "Powered By Girlfriends" meaning we value and support all the girlfriends in our lives. We are proud to donate $1 from every Julep Nail Vernis sale to organizations that empower women.

And now...here's my Maven Box!
What I got:

LOVE this hand cream...seriously the best I've ever tried.

The Glycolic Scrub...again...LOVE!

Maya (left), Taylor (right)

Powered by Girlfriends!

Jordana Glitters Specialty Nail Polish Collection | Colors and Press Info

2012-01-20T14:51:00.001-07:00

Jordana says:

Glitter Specialty Nail Polish

Diamonds are a girl's best friend...but Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald & Amethyst are a family of jewels nails will adore.

• Superior wear
• Multi-shaped, multi-sized, multi-colored glitter
• Use alone or over your favorite nail polish

Made in USA
Available in 24 Sparkling Shades.

NET WT 0.20 FL oz / 6 mL

DBP, Toluene & Formaldehyde Free

24 gorgeous nail polishes, most of which are currently available on the Jordana website! The other 6 will be coming soon though so no worries!

Come February you will also be able to find the following 12 shades at K-Mart stores:
01 Magenta Magic, 02 Celebration, 06 Fairy Dust, 08 Sequins, 10 Gemstones, 11 Cosmic, 12 Celestial, 14 LA City Nights, 15 Blue Bash, 17 Copper Blaze, 21 Funky Gold Town, and 23 Rhinestones.

I'll have swatches or 12 of the polishes coming soon!

**NOTE: To view colors and names better, right click on the picture and select "View Image."

Maybelline 24HR Color Tattoo Eyeshadows Review

2012-01-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

Maybelline says:

Why You'll Love It
Dare to wear 24HR shadow.
• Ink technology creates 24HR wear shadow for our most intense, long-lasting color saturation
• Cream formula glides on without creasing and keeps color vibrant
• Ophthalmologist-tested. Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers

For Best Results
High impact look:
Illuminate. With fingertips, sweep all over eye from inner corner and work outwards. For added drama, darken as desired.

My Thoughts:
First of all, if you haven't seen my swatches yet, I'm going to need you to go take a look because...WOW.

Basically, these cream shadows are crazy amazing. Just...I don't even know. They'd be amazing for a mid or high end product but considering that they're drugstore and priced at about $6 each...it's even better and just mind boggling (plus you can get them on BOGO!). They're pigmented, smooth and easy to apply, and blend beautifully. I've used them as eyeshadow with nothing on top, and also as a base with an eyeshadow over the top and they work great both ways. I've applied them with my finger and a brush; both worked just as good as each other. As for the 24 hour claim on the lasting power, I don't doubt it. I wore Bold Gold as an eyeshadow on my lid and it lasted ALL day from 5am til about 8pm. No creasing or fading at all. Granted that wasn't 24 hours but it was pretty close. Pictures are below showing my makeup through the day!

Bold Gold on the lid with a few MAC shadows for the other colors.
5am

4pm (11 hours later)

8pm (15 hours later)

See what I mean? Bold Gold did not budge at all!

My only wish is that there were more matte skintone shades. Maybe someday!

88 Metal Palette | Jeweltone Eyes and MAC Dupes

2012-01-18T23:09:00.000-07:00

I did a look like this a while ago using MAC eyeshadows...Gorgeous Gold, Amber Lights, and Star Violet. It was RandomJazzica on Twitter who was wondering about product dupes so I figured I'd recreate the look using different products. I ended up using the 88 Metal Palette for this look and it turned out so incredibly close to the original version.

I've included MAC dupe comparison swatches below!

Dupe comparison swatches--
Gorgeous Gold

Gorgeous Gold (left)

Amber Lights

Amber Lights (left)

Star Violet

Star Violet (left)

PRODUCTS
BROWS:
Senna Cosmetics Brow Shaper Duo in Brunette (powder side only)
MAC Studio Select Concealer in NW25
Senna Cosmetics Brow Fix X in Taupe

EYES:
Too Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)
NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk (base)
88 Metal Palette (lid colors)
3rd edition 120 palette (black and purple for crease and above)
MAC Fluidline in Black Track
wet n wild Eyeshadow Single in Brulee (browbone highlight)
Maybelline Waterproof Volume Express Mascara—Very Black
Salon Perfect Demi Wispies
Duo Clear Lash Glue

FACE:
MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NW25
MAC Studio Fix Powder in N5
Loreal Bare Natural concealer in Light (under eye concealer/brightener)
NYC Skin Smoothing Bronzer (contour/bronzer)
Lorac Luminizer in Spotlight (cheek highlight)

LIPS:
Ulta lipliner in Flesh
MAC lipstick in Blankety
clear lipgloss

CHI InfraTech Curling Iron from Misikko

2012-01-18T08:32:00.002-07:00

About the CHI Infratech curling iron:

CHI InfraTECH Titanium Pro Digital Ceramic Curling Iron 1 1/2 Inch is designed to create smooth shiny flawless curls instantly. Its titanium ceramic creates instant heat and spreads ions evenly through out the roller in order to create sensational curls.

I'm usually not one to curl my hair for one reason...I cannot get curls to stay for the life of me. Well, two reasons...I also don't have the patience to do it. Since Misikko was awesome enough to send me a curling iron though, I've been doing it a bit more often lately. Doing loose curls and throwing on a knit cap...love!

Thoughts:
Sturdy but lightweight, simple, fast to heat up, a long cord, curls quickly...all the things I love about this curling iron. I also love the size. Since it's on the larger size it's easier for a curling rookie like me to get the loose curls I love. I didn't experience any static or frizzing. Instead my freshly curled hair was left soft, touchable, and full of shine.

A possible downfall (just not a downfall for me) is that there isn't a temperature control. However, I personally like the simplicity.

A bit about Misikko:
Along with curling irons they also sell blow dryers, CHI irons, and CHI hair products.

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.

HANAair Professional Hair Dryer

2012-01-17T22:42:00.000-07:00

About the HANAair:

HANA Salon presents the powerful HANAair hair dryer. This dryer has been Salon tested and Salon recommended since its inception. Inspired by Italian design, the combination of HANAair's strongest AC motor along with its tourmaline lined ceramic heater will dry your hair up to 60% faster maintaining natural shine while promoting healthy luxurious hair.

Hana Salon Air Hair Dryer Features:
Ion Technology- condition hair & reduces static electricity
Tourmaline & Titanium Oxide Technology- natural ions promote healthier hair
Silver Nanotechnology- for antibacterial Protection
Scratch Resistant Shell with black metallico finish adds durability and is easy to clean
Long life motor with low noise
Gyroscopically balanced for easy handling
Fiberglass concentrator
Italian Design

Thoughts:
I'm a daily blow drying kinda girl--always have been. I blow dry my the back of my super fine hair for volume and then I smooth everything out with a CHI hair straightener. Out of every hair dryer I've ever owned, this one is, without a doubt, the best hair dryer...ever. It's lightweight and balanced allowing me to dry my hair without practically breaking my arms. It's quiet...something I never thought a hair dryer could be. My hair feels softer when I use it which honestly amazed me because I don't have that dry feel and look that I typically have with hair dryers. I also LOVE the super long cord!

Cons? Um...none.

Temperature and speed controls

Misikko's adorable packing...as always!

Oh and here's Britney...she also gets to use the hair dryer. She said she loves it! :)

DISCLAIMER: Product(s) in this post may have been sent complimentary of the company or PR to A Brilliant Brunette for consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.